NASA, renowned for its stunning images of Earth and the Universe, recently shared a captivating photograph of a half-frozen Pangong Tso lake taken from the International Space Station (ISS). The image, posted on Instagram by NASA Earth, showcases the remarkable beauty of this high-altitude lake nestled between India and China.
Pangong Tso is renowned as one of the highest lakes globally, boasting an elevation of 4,225 meters (13,862 feet). Despite its lofty altitude, it is not a freshwater lake but rather a saltwater one. During the winter months, the lake freezes entirely, even hosting a marathon atop its icy surface. Notably, the lake’s hues change with varying weather conditions, adding to its allure.
Describing the image, NASA Earth highlighted the diverse landscapes surrounding the lake, ranging from brown land representing raised beaches, roads, and deltas to various shades of blue water and ice sheets in the center. The photograph vividly captures the frozen expanse of the lake, with the right side covered in ice, depicted by white and light blue areas.
As per NASA, the image was captured by a member of the Expedition 70 crew and provided by the ISS Crew Earth Observations Facility and the Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, Johnson Space Center. Taken on January 25, 2024, with a Nikon D5 digital camera using a focal length of 1150 millimeters, the picture offers a breathtaking perspective of Pangong Tso’s winter beauty from space.
Internet users expressed admiration for the stunning image, with many marveling at the delicate balance between nature and human presence in one of Earth’s most captivating landscapes. Enthusiastic comments flooded the post, with users expressing sentiments like “My precious” and showering love and heart emojis, encapsulating the awe inspired by this mesmerizing glimpse of Pangong Tso Lake.
From News Desk