In the Jordan rift valley, the continents of Africa and Asia are pulling apart from each other, and the land in between has been subsiding for millennia. The sinking has created the Dead Sea.
Published Dec 25, 2005
High chlorophyll concentrations indicate the presence of tiny plant-like organisms, called phytoplankton. The plants can both nourish and destroy a marine ecosystem. Phytoplankton are a major source of food for many marine animals, but if they overgrow, the decomposition of so much organic material robs the water of oxygen. Satellite images such as this Aqua MODIS image help monitor phytoplankton concentrations in the world’s oceans.
Published Feb 26, 2005
Ships, airplanes, and satellites all play a role in monitoring Chesapeake water quality, algae blooms, and dead zones.
Published Nov 2, 2016
The lowest spot on dry land, the Dead Sea depression sinks 400 meters (1,300 feet) below sea level.
Published Nov 12, 2006
As water levels drop in the Dead Sea, salt is piling up on the lakebed.
Published Jul 31, 2019
The river drains water and sediment from 31 U.S. states, delivering both to the Gulf of Mexico via the Atchafalaya and Mississippi River deltas.
Published Jul 5, 2019
The lake between Israel and Jordan provides a bounty of salt and of history.
Published Apr 6, 2012
Mud clouds much of the Chesapeake Bay in this image from September 13, 2011.
Published Sep 16, 2011
