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Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge
Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge
Welcome to this eco-travelers" paradise in the middle of the Pacific. Situated halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa, the Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2001 to conserve, manage, and restore the nation"s fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats.Desktop Version
West Cornwall Covered Bridge, Connecticut
West Cornwall Covered Bridge, Connecticut
Covered bridges like West Cornwall Covered Bridge, pictured in today"s image, were designed with roofs and siding to protect their wooden structures from weathering, greatly increasing their durability. While many were built in the 19th century, few have survived to the present day, and the ones that have are often preserved for their historical and visual significance.Desktop Version
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras
Get ready to revel—Mardi Gras is here! Also called Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday, the holiday was originally celebrated to live life to the fullest before fasting and giving up other indulgences for Lent. For some, it"s just an excuse to party.Desktop Version
The ruins of Italica, Andalusia, Spain
The ruins of Italica, Andalusia, Spain
It was the year 206 BCE. In the wake of the decisive Roman victory against the Carthaginians at the Battle of Ilipa, General Publius Cornelius Scipio built a settlement for veterans on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, in modern-day Spain. It was named Italica and was the first Roman settlement on the Iberian Peninsula. The city flourished in the following centuries and was the birthplace of two Roman emperors, Trajan and Hadrian.Desktop Version
International Day of Human Space Flight
International Day of Human Space Flight
Not so long ago, humanity took its first step beyond Earth. For thousands of years, we gazed at the stars, dreaming of what lay beyond. Then, on April 12, 1961, one man left the planet and changed history forever. That morning, Soviet pilot Yuri Gagarin climbed into a small, spherical spacecraft named Vostok 1. The countdown began. The engines ignited. As the rocket roared toward the sky, he called out, "Poyekhali!"—"Let"s go!" And just like that, Earth had its first space traveler.Desktop Version
Star Wars Day
Star Wars Day
May the Force be with you on May 4, adopted by "Star Wars" fans as the day to celebrate their favorite franchise. Many will recognize Skellig Michael, the island on our homepage, as the location of scenes from the "Star Wars" sequels, "The Force Awakens" and "The Last Jedi." This UNESCO World Heritage Site appears in the movies as the planet Ahch-To, where Jedi master Luke Skywalker seeks refuge. Home to a 6th-century monastery with beehive huts and stone staircases, it also hosts a large seabird population that inspired the penguin-like porgs that roost on Ahch-To. Skellig Michael is about 7 miles off Ireland"s southwestern coast, daily visitors are limited, and boat trips are canceled if it is too stormy. Still, the island attracts "Star Wars" fans and others keen to see this ancient site, not so very far, far away.Desktop Version
Patriot Day
Patriot Day
On Patriot Day, we are at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, where the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center once stood. The museum is 70 feet underground, beneath the memorial"s waterfall pools in the footprints of the fallen towers. The names of those who died in the 2001 terrorist attacks and in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing are listed on bronze parapets surrounding these huge reflecting pools. Seven stories below the memorial, the museum tells the story of 9/11 through exhibits, artifacts, historical records, and personal accounts, remembering the victims and those who risked their lives to save others.Desktop Version
The Bahamas
The Bahamas
Turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, alfresco dining, and tales of pirates—welcome to the Bahamas! With over 3,000 cays, islands, and islets in the Atlantic Ocean, this West Indies archipelago is home to the world"s third-largest barrier reef—the Andros Barrier Reef. For adventurous souls drawn to nature, Dean"s Blue Hole, a 663-foot-deep marine sinkhole on Long Island, offers a thrilling experience. From the serene pink sand beaches of Harbour Island to the capital city Nassau"s bustling Straw Market and famous wine cellars, the Bahamas is more than just a destination—it"s a captivating tale waiting to unfold.Desktop Version
Yungang Grottoes, Shanxi, China
Yungang Grottoes, Shanxi, China
What do 51,000 ancient statues have in common? They all call the Yungang Grottoes in China home! This collection of early Buddhist art is near Datong in Shanxi province, northeastern China. Carved into sandstone cliffs over 1,500 years ago during the Northern Wei dynasty, the grottoes comprise 254 caves. The highlight is the massive Buddha in Cave 5, which is a jaw-dropping 56 feet tall. But don"t stop there—each cave offers something unique. Some are like ancient storyboards, depicting tales from Buddhist scriptures, while others showcase detailed carvings of monks, deities, musicians, and even scenes of daily life under Wei rule. These caves blend influences from Indian, Central Asian, and local Chinese Buddhist art. Whether you"re a history lover or simply appreciate unique art, the Yungang Grottoes offer an unforgettable experience.Desktop Version
Cherry blossoms in Shanghai, China
Cherry blossoms in Shanghai, China
In spring, nature puts on a vibrant display, marking the start of the season with the bloom of cherry blossoms. Around the globe, from Japan to the United States, this spectacle captivates millions of hearts. In China, cherry blossoms, known as "Yinghua," bloom from late March to late April, adorning landscapes with delicate hues of pink and white. Revered for centuries by the Chinese, these fragile petals hold profound significance in their traditions, symbolizing renewal, hope, and the transient nature of life. Among popular places to see them are Wuhan"s East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, Lu Xun Park in Shanghai, and Beijing"s Yuyuantan Park. Cherry blossoms look similar to plum blossoms, but an easy way to distinguish between the two is to look at their petals. Cherry blossom petals have split ends, but plum blossoms don"t.Desktop Version
Independence Day
Independence Day
Today the sky sparkles with shades of patriotism as our nation celebrates its Independence Day! The Declaration of Independence was adopted by delegates from the 13 colonies on July 4, 1776. The Founding Fathers proclaimed that the colonies were now unified, independent, and sovereign states, no longer under the authority of Britain"s King George III.Desktop Version
Celebrating Labor Day
Celebrating Labor Day
Take a load off this Labor Day weekend. One of 11 federal holidays, Labor Day honors America"s workers and is celebrated on the first Monday of September. Its origins are rooted in late 1800s efforts to recognize the contributions the country"s workers, and labor activists ultimately helped establish the 40-hour work week and weekends. President Grover Cleveland made the US holiday official in 1894. Today, many Americans celebrate the long weekend, which is often considered the unofficial end of summer, by grilling, hanging out with friends and family, and going to parades.Desktop Version
Point Reyes National Seashore, California
Point Reyes National Seashore, California
This stunning 71,028-acre coastal haven on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County is a gem of the California coastline. Filled with scenic trails that wind through forests and along cliffs, it boasts breathtaking views and lots of wildlife. Point Reyes National Seashore also has a reputation as the most wind-swept spot on the Pacific Coast and the second-foggiest area in North America, so dress accordingly.Desktop Version
Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
Welcome to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Let the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore transport you through time. More than just a church, this Gothic structure, with its red-tiled dome, is steeped in centuries of history. Built over an older cathedral, construction began in 1296 under the supervision of architect Arnolfo di Cambio. Italian architect Filippo Brunelleschi engineered its dome, the largest brick dome ever constructed. Its completion in 1436 was the final stage of the cathedral"s construction. It"s not just the outside that dazzles; inside there are artistic treasures to discover, from Giorgio Vasari"s fresco "The Last Judgment" to Paolo Uccello"s intricate clock face. The cathedral complex is also home to the Baptistery, a small basilica, and Giotto"s Campanile, a free-standing bell tower.Desktop Version
National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From today, National Hispanic Heritage Month unfurls its vibrant celebrations of Hispanic Americans" contributions to US culture and society. The date coincides with the independence days of several Latin American nations, like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile. Established as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, it was expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.Desktop Version
International Tiger Day
International Tiger Day
We"re off to a roaring start today: It"s International Tiger Day, which aims to protect these magnificent big cats amid threats such as poaching and habitat loss. At the end of the 19th century, there were thought to be around 100,000 tigers in the wild; these days, there are fewer than 6,000.Desktop Version
Frost-covered dunes on Mars
Frost-covered dunes on Mars
Mars, the fourth planet from the sun, is often referred to as the "Red Planet" due to its rusty hue from the iron oxide-rich soil dust. The planet is dotted with frosty dunes, largely located in the high latitudes of the northern plains. Mars" atmosphere is composed of nearly 96% carbon dioxide, which is why carbon ice forms on the surface. These dunes showcase the dynamic interaction between Mars" thin atmosphere, its surface, and seasonal temperature changes.Desktop Version
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month
We"re kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with this beautiful mural celebrating the contributions made to the Buffalo, New York, region by the Hispanic and Latinx communities. Artist, community activist, and educator Betsy Casañas, with the assistance of many local artists, created this mural called "Homeland, Perhaps It Is Because I Wish to See You Fly, That My Flight Continues to Be Yours." Its subjects highlight local cultural heritage, including portrayals of agricultural production and industrial work. Through conversations with members of the community, Casañas incorporated symbolism inspired by the mixed and integrated Latinx community of Buffalo.Desktop Version
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Today"s homepage takes us to the Mexican city of San Miguel de Allende, to toast Cinco de Mayo, or "Fifth of May." Not to be confused with Mexico"s Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo instead marks Mexico’s 1862 triumph over France at the Battle of Puebla. The holiday is observed in Mexico but has become popular in the US since the 1980s thanks to various advertising campaigns. Here it has evolved into a wider celebration of Mexican culture, whether it is food, history, art, or the colorful architecture of cities like San Miguel de Allende, established in the 16th century, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Desktop Version
Glacial rivers in Iceland
Glacial rivers in Iceland
Iceland"s glacial rivers have shaped the landscape here in the land of fire and ice over thousands of years. The rivers seen in today"s image are formed from the meltwater of vast glaciers like Vatnajökull, Langjökull, and Hofsjökull. Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Iceland, covers over 3,000 square miles—approximately 10% of the country"s landmass. As the glaciers melt, the water carries fine sediments, creating a braided river system with a milky appearance that contrasts with the earthy tones of the volcanic terrain. Every spring and summer, the rivers swell with seasonal meltwater, continually shaping and reshaping the land. Aerial views reveal their intricate patterns, interwoven across the terrain toward the North Atlantic Ocean. The water also powers hydroelectric power stations, reinforcing Iceland"s status as a leader in sustainable energy.Desktop Version
Redwood National and State Parks, California
Redwood National and State Parks, California
Step into a world where trees touch the sky. The redwood groves of Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) in California are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, soaring over 370 feet high. The combined RNSP contain Redwood National Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Some of these redwoods were alive when the Mayans built their temples, and the Great Wall of China was under construction. Protected since 1968, the park preserves nearly half of the world"s remaining old-growth redwoods.Desktop Version
Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month
Today marks the start of Native American Heritage Month. Throughout November, we honor the history, traditions, stories, and languages of Native Peoples. The Indigenous Peoples of North America have played a significant role in shaping our country, including the food we eat and the medicines that heal us. In addition to being a celebration, this month is also a time to reflect on the issues that Native Peoples face, including civil and voting rights, land access, and education.Desktop Version
European Day of Parks
European Day of Parks
Today is European Day of Parks! On this day in 1909, Europe"s first nine national parks were founded in Sweden. This year, the celebration highlights how protected areas help shape nature policies and contribute to building sustainable societies. These areas are more than just guardians of biodiversity; they are also pillars of our collective well-being, reminding us to preserve our natural heritage.Desktop Version
World Theater Day
World Theater Day
Today, all the world"s a stage. Every year on March 27, the curtains rise to thunderous applause in celebration of World Theater Day—an ode to an art form that has influenced the masses for centuries. The day aims to promote theater and raise awareness of how it has preserved ancient cultures, provided social commentary throughout history, and even helped form our language. Seen in the image today is the Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires, a symbol of Argentina"s rich theatrical heritage. Built in 1908, the theater is renowned for its grand architecture and exceptional acoustics, making it one of the world"s premier opera houses. Over the years, it has hosted performances by legendary figures such as Enrico Caruso, Richard Strauss, Lily Pons, Marina de Gabaráin, Joss Stone, Branford Marsalis, and many more. On this day dedicated to drama, let"s appreciate this art form that continues to narrate stories in the most spectacular way!Desktop Version
Frankenstein Friday
Frankenstein Friday
Picture yourself at the highest peak in the Alps, where the air is crisp and the views are breathtaking. The towering presence of Mont Blanc has left an indelible mark on literature, most notably on Mary Shelley"s "Frankenstein." The last Friday of October is Frankenstein Friday, honoring Shelley"s literary genius and the fascinating creature born from her imagination. "Frankenstein" was conceived during a ghost story challenge. In 1816, an 18-year-old Shelley, along with fellow writers Percy Bysshe Shelley, John Polidori, and Lord Byron, spent a stormy summer in Switzerland. Forced inside by incessant rain, she penned the tale of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature. A pivotal scene in the novel takes place on a glacier near Mont Blanc, where Victor is confronted by his monstrous creation. This setting, with its surreal beauty and treacherous terrain, perfectly captures a sense of awe and terror.Desktop Version