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Molokini crater, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Molokini crater, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Today we"re in Molokini Crater, in Hawaii, USA. This pleasant crescent in the Pacific Ocean lies in the "Alalākeiki Channel between the Hawaiian Islands of Maui and Kaho"olawe. The islet is all that remains of a volcano that erupted about 230,000 years ago. According to Hawaiian mythology, Pele the fire goddess was in love with a man named Mo"o. The trouble was that Mo"o was in love with another woman. Pele"s revenge was typically violent: she cut her rival in two, her body becoming Molokini, while her head became Pu"u Olai, a cinder cone on Maui.Desktop Version
Great horned owl
Great horned owl
The Halloween season is upon us, so let"s meet one of the holiday"s icons: the great horned owl. With its keen vision, eerie vocalisations and silent flight, this owl has historically been revered and feared. In folklore and mythology, owls were considered symbols of wisdom and omens of death. On Samhain, the Celtic precursor to Halloween, the owl was believed to be the kin of roaming spirits.Desktop Version
International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day
"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope." These words by former secretary-general of the United Nations Kofi Annan capture the essence of International Literacy Day, celebrated every September 8. Established by UNESCO in 1966, this observance not only celebrates those who can read but also highlights the ongoing battle against illiteracy. With approximately 775 million people worldwide still lacking basic literacy, this day resonates powerfully within the hallowed walls of the Stockholm Public Library in Sweden, or "Stadsbiblioteket" as it is known to locals, featured in today"s image.Desktop Version
International Day for Biological Diversity
International Day for Biological Diversity
Today we"re celebrating the biodiversity of our planet! What exactly is biodiversity? It refers to all living things, from animals and plants to fungi and microorganisms, in one area. This delicate but vigorous balance in nature is what keeps us all alive. That"s definitely worth celebrating! May 22 was officially declared to be the International Day for Biological Diversity by the United Nations in 2000. Unfortunately, the biodiversity of Earth is slowly decreasing due to climate change, the draining of natural resources, urbanisation and pollution, among other factors. It is our responsibility to return nature"s favour to us and protect our environment. After all, we are blessed with intriguing species such as the Tasmanian snow gum—the tree seen in today"s image—which takes root in one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet, the Mount Field National Park in Tasmania, Australia.Desktop Version
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Huesca, Spain
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Huesca, Spain
Today"s image showcases Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, which is situated in the Pyrenees Mountain range of northeastern Spain. The park"s name, Monte Perdido, meaning "Lost Mountain", reflects the grandeur of its second-highest peak, which is often covered in mist. This national park was established with the primary aim of preserving the high mountain landscape of the surrounding region. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the area predominantly has rugged terrain, limestone formations and a plethora of karst features including sinkholes and caves.Desktop Version
Tree frog, Costa Rica
Tree frog, Costa Rica
Today"s image features a tree frog. Frogs don"t always get the attention they deserve. These little jumpers have been around since dinosaurs roamed the Earth, and they"ve evolved into some of the weirdest, coolest creatures out there. With over 4,000 known species worldwide, they come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny New Guinea Amau frog—smaller than a dime—to the large Goliath frog, which can weigh more than 2 kilograms. Some, like the glass frog, are nearly transparent, while others are extremely poisonous. The golden poison frog, for example, carries enough toxin to take down ten humans. And if you think all frogs are swamp-dwellers, meet the desert rain frog, a round little amphibian that survives in dry conditions by absorbing moisture through its skin. Frogs play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling insect populations and serving as prey for many predators. However, habitat loss, pollution and disease threaten many species.Desktop Version
The Monastery of Roussanou, Greece
The Monastery of Roussanou, Greece
When you think of Greece, you might picture sea, sandy shores, whitewashed buildings and blue domes. However, there is so much more to this country. Pictured here is the Roussanou Monastery, nestled amidst the towering cliffs of a rock formation called Meteora in Thessaly, northern Greece. Legend has it that in the 14th century, a group of monks seeking refuge from political turmoil scaled these cliffs to establish their hermitages. Roussanou is one of the six remaining monasteries in the Meteora UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you"ve conquered the climb, you"ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views, but the real treasures lie within the monastery itself—a world of Byzantine art and architecture. This style emerged in the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, which lasted from the 4th century CE until the fall of Constantinople in 1453. So, are you ready to take the climb?Desktop Version
Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA
Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA
California"s Joshua Tree National Park, located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, has been home to various cultures for thousands of years. Its earliest known residents were people from the Pinto culture, who lived here from 8000 to 4000 BCE. Centuries later, this land was inhabited by the native Cahuilla, Serrano and Chemehuevi peoples. The park"s namesake, the Joshua tree, grows in a landscape covering 3,216 square kilometres. Despite their name, they are not really trees but rather a kind of succulent. Native to the southwest US and northern Mexico, they can grow up to 12 metres tall. Whether it"s hiking through Hidden Valley, visiting the Cholla Cactus Garden or marvelling at Skull Rock, this national park has a lot to offer. By night, it becomes a stargazer"s paradise, as seen in today"s image. Whether you seek adventure or a moment of tranquillity, Joshua Tree awaits with open skies.Desktop Version
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Are you looking for sandy charms? Come to Aït Benhaddou, Morocco, situated along the old caravan route linking the Sahara to Marrakesh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Moroccan earthen clay architecture, a building technique that uses sun-dried mud to make structures. Although none of the buildings here are believed to predate the 17th century, they are constructed using techniques and styles that are much older. Located on the gentle slopes overlooking the Asif Ounila (Ounila River) is the ksar, a fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, with mud-brick structures. Clustered within a defensive wall with a gate and corner towers, ksars are a great representation of classic pre-Saharan dwelling. The ksar"s communal landscape includes a public square, a mosque, grain-threshing areas beyond the fortifications and a caravanserai—a type of roadside inn, among other features. So, if you are seeking a journey off the beaten path, Aït Benhaddou awaits you!Desktop Version
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA
Fancy a walk through the Smokies in Tennessee, seen in today"s image? Spanning over 2,112 square kilometres between North Carolina and Tennessee in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Home to more than 19,000 documented species, scientists estimate that tens of thousands more remain undiscovered. Kilometres of hiking trails wind through the dense woodlands, leading adventurers to cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks.Desktop Version
Daintree Rainforest and Noah Beach, Queensland, Australia
Daintree Rainforest and Noah Beach, Queensland, Australia
Welcome to a land where greenery meets the endless blue! Situated on the North Queensland coast of Australia is Noah Beach, a sanctuary encircled by the dense foliage of the Daintree Rainforest. Bordered by the waters of the Coral Sea, this beach is a fascinating blend of two distinct ecosystems—the rainforest seamlessly meeting the azure waters of the sea.Desktop Version
Sibiu Christmas Market, Romania
Sibiu Christmas Market, Romania
As the winter chill sets in, the city of Sibiu transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland as it hosts one of Romania"s most popular Christmas markets. The Sibiu Christmas Market, known in Romanian as Târgul de Crăciun din Sibiu, is held in the central square from the end of November until early January. Sparkling strings of lights drape across the square, seen in today"s image, creating a canopy that bathes the cobblestone streets in a warm, festive glow. There also stands a beautifully lit Christmas tree, surrounded by charming wooden huts selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to locally made treats like cozonac, a traditional Romanian sweet bread; vin fiert, an aromatic mulled wine; and covrigi, a type of pretzel served warm and sprinkled with salt.Desktop Version
Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti
Today is Gandhi Jayanti—a day that marks the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, whose words of truth and nonviolence echo through history. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was a well-known lawyer, anti-colonial nationalist and political ethicist. He is celebrated for his use of nonviolent resistance to spearhead India"s successful struggle for independence from British rule. This day is globally recognised as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations. Gandhi Jayanti is marked by prayer services and tributes throughout the country, with special observances at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, the site of his cremation.Desktop Version
International Whale Shark Day
International Whale Shark Day
On August 30, India unites with the global community to shine a spotlight on whale sharks. Originally discovered off South Africa"s coast in the 1820s, these creatures have patrolled the seas for more than 240 million years. The whale shark holds the record as the largest fish on Earth, reaching lengths up to 12 metres, with one exceptional individual measuring a remarkable 18.8 metres. Found in tropical oceans around the world, these filter feeders glide through the water, mouth wide open, straining plankton and small fish. Each pattern on their dotted, starry skin is as unique as a human fingerprint.Desktop Version
Alfanzina lighthouse, Algarve, Portugal
Alfanzina lighthouse, Algarve, Portugal
The lighthouse featured in today"s image stands in Carvoeiro in the Algarve on the southern coast of Portugal. Built in 1919, the Alfanzina lighthouse shines out over the ocean to help ships navigate the dangerous waters that surround the area. A popular tourist destination, the lighthouse also became a symbol of the region"s deep links to the sea. Lighthouses have been keeping sailors safe almost as long as humans have been sailing the seas. Originally, lighthouses were powered by fires and oil lamps, requiring lighthouse keepers to maintain them. These days, however, most lighthouses have been automated and installed with electric light sources. In waters that are too deep or otherwise unsuitable to build a lighthouse, lightships have often been used. If you"re lucky enough to live near a lighthouse, this weekend is the perfect time to pay it a visit.Desktop Version
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Get ready for a starry Moroccan night! Stargazing here is truly magical, as the vast skies and minimal light pollution transform each evening into a dazzling display. Every star you see is part of our galaxy, the Milky Way, which gets its name from the way it appears as a creamy band of light in the darkest skies. In today"s image, you can see this cosmic beauty glowing over Aït Benhaddou, a historic ksar—a kind of fortified village—in the Ouarzazate province of Morocco. This site was first fortified in the 11th century. It was a key stop on the ancient caravan trade route connecting the Sahara and the city of Marrakesh. Perched on a hillside by the Ounila River, this village is a cluster of buildings encircled by a protective wall, complete with towers and a gate.Desktop Version
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is, one of the longest manmade structures in the world. Stretching more than 20,900 kilometres and dating back thousands of years, the ancient marvel in today"s picture is a series of fortifications spanning rugged mountains, valleys and deserts. Featuring steep trenches and watchtowers, parts of it were designed to keep invaders at bay. Hiking the Great Wall offers a unique glimpse into this historical landmark. The experience varies from well-preserved sections like Mutianyu to wild, unrestored parts such as Jiankou. The Great Wall of China isn"t just a wall, but a symbol of perseverance and strength.Desktop Version
Pinnacles National Park, California, United States
Pinnacles National Park, California, United States
Jagged pinnacles and spires, monoliths and unusual caves—welcome to Pinnacles National Park in central California, United States. It all began in 1908 when President Theodore Roosevelt designated the area as a national monument. Later in 2013, Pinnacles earned its status as a national park. This land owes its formations to an ancient volcanic eruption that occurred 23 million years ago. The fiery beginnings made towering spires, cliffs and talus caves—created by falling boulders wedged into narrow canyons. Over millennia, tectonic forces shifted the landmass northward, leaving the park far from its volcanic birthplace. Talk about a journey!Desktop Version
World Lizard Day
World Lizard Day
From mythology to modern media, lizards have often been portrayed as scary reptiles. As it turns out, they"re not as dangerous as stories might lead you to believe. Today, World Lizard Day, is the perfect time to learn about these cold-blooded creatures. With more than 7,000 species, these animals have adapted to a wide range of environments—from deserts to rainforests. Take the gecko, for example. These little climbers have specialised toe pads that let them scale walls and even walk on ceilings. Then there"s the chameleon, known for its colour-changing skin. While many think it"s all about blending in, chameleons also change colour to communicate and regulate their temperature.Desktop Version
Young black caiman, Tambopata National Reserve, Peru
Young black caiman, Tambopata National Reserve, Peru
Let"s take a sneak peek at the black caimans of South America that"s lurking in the waters of Peru"s Tambopata National Reserve. These carnivorous creatures thrive in freshwater environments such as slow-moving rivers, lakes and seasonally flooded savannahs. This creature, the largest in the alligator family, can grow to more than 6 metres and tip the scales at upwards of 450 kilograms. Their dark scales are a masterstroke of camouflage, giving them an edge in hunting a variety of aquatic and terrestrial prey. Their role extends beyond predation, however. They indirectly protect our agricultural interests by maintaining balance within their ecosystem, preventing overpopulation of species such as piranhas and capybaras, which can affect local agriculture and livestock.Desktop Version
Kendwa village, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Kendwa village, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Off the coast of East Africa in the archipelago of Zanzibar—a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania—is the village of Kendwa. Historically, this serene village played a modest role in the island"s fishing industry, with traditional wooden boats, known as dhows, etching patterns across the waters.Desktop Version
Rice terraces of Mù Cang Chải, Yên Bái province, Vietnam
Rice terraces of Mù Cang Chải, Yên Bái province, Vietnam
Amidst the rolling hills of Vietnam"s Yên Bái province, the rice terraces of Mù Cang Chải district are a mosaic of agricultural excellence. The Hmong people, an ethnic minority known for their rich culture and vibrant attire, have meticulously carved these cascading hills for generations. The Hmong migrated to northern Vietnam in the 19th century from China. They were skilled in shifting cultivation—an agricultural system in which lands are cultivated temporarily and then returned to their natural vegetation—of crops including millets, rice, corn and barley.Desktop Version
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria, Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria, Germany
The word you"re looking for is "fairy tale". Welcome to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or "Red Fortress above the Tauber River," where medieval charm is around every cobbled corner. With origins as a self-ruling city, in the Middle Ages, this walled Bavarian town once flourished with 6,000 inhabitants, making it the Holy Roman Empire"s second-largest city at the time. The growth of Rothenburg ob der Tauber slowed in the 17th century, preserving its original character.Desktop Version
Huntington Beach Pier, California, USA
Huntington Beach Pier, California, USA
In today"s image, we see the sun beginning to disappear below the pier at Huntington Beach, California. First built in 1902, Huntington Beach Pier was damaged by a storm, leading it to be rebuilt just nine years later. During the Second World War, a submarine lookout post was installed on the pier to help with the war effort. These days, it"s a popular tourist spot, with visitors heading there to fish and to watch surfers ride the waves out in the Pacific Ocean.Desktop Version
International Day of Light
International Day of Light
Today is the International Day of Light! Held on May 16, the day marks the anniversary of invention of the laser by the American physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman in 1960. This pioneering creation epitomises how innovation can revolutionise society, impacting fields from communications to healthcare. The scope of the celebration extends beyond lasers, embracing light"s presence in every aspect of human existence, from art and culture to science and technology.Desktop Version