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NASA Earth Observatory

Earth at Night

Satellite images of Earth at night have been a curiosity for the public and a tool of fundamental research for at least 25 years. They have provided a broad, beautiful picture, showing how humans have shaped the planet and lit up the darkness.
Earth’s City Lights 1994
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Earth’s City Lights 1994

Satellite map of the man-made lights on Earth, which scientists use to study development and urbanization.

Published Oct 23, 2000

Image of the Day Land Human Presence Remote Sensing

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