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A JOINT MISSION OF NASA AND USGS (Landsat 1 to 9)

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  A JOINT MISSION OF NASA AND USGS (Landsat 1 to 9) The launch of the nine Landsat satellites represents one of the longest and most important Earth observation programmes in human history. Each Landsat mission was placed into orbit to respond to growing scientific, environmental, and societal needs, while also building continuity in observing the Earth’s surface over time. Together, the nine satellites were not launched as isolated missions, but as part of a long-term vision to understand how the planet is changing. Landsat 1, launched in 1972, marked the beginning of satellite-based Earth observation for civilian and scientific purposes. Its main goal was to demonstrate that space-based sensors could reliably collect images of land, water, and vegetation. At the time,governments and scientists lacked consistent global data on natural resources. Landsat 1 proved that satellites could support agriculture, forestry, geology, and land-use planning. The success of this mission justifi...
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The Sentinel 1, Sentinel 2, and Sentinel 3 Satellites: Roles in Earth Observation

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  The Sentinel 1, Sentinel 2, and Sentinel 3 Satellites: Roles in Earth Observation. The Sentinel satellite missions are part of the European Union’s Copernicus Programme, which aims to provide continuous and reliable information about the Earth and its environment. Among these missions, Sentinel 1, Sentinel 2, and Sentinel 3 play central roles in monitoring land, oceans, and the atmosphere. Together, they support environmental management, disaster response, climate studies, and sustainable development. Sentinel 1 is a radar imaging satellite that uses Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology. Unlike optical satellites, Sentinel 1 can collect data both day and night and in all weather conditions, including through clouds and rain. This capability makes it especially valuable for monitoring land movement, sea ice, oil spills, floods, and ship traffic. Sentinel 1A was launched in 2014, followed by Sentinel 1B in 2016. The data provided by Sentinel 1 are widely used in emergency resp...
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Himalayan mountain system and its geological cross-section

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  Himalayan mountain system and its geological cross-section. The image shows a clear and structured view of the Himalayan mountain system, showing both the surface landscape and the rock layers beneath it. It combines a natural mountain scene with a simplified geological cross-section. These mountain ranges are located in South and Central Asia, stretching across countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.  In the background, several major mountain ranges are visible. The Karakoram Range lies to one side, known for its high, steep peaks. Nearby is the Ladakh Range, which appears slightly lower and drier. Farther across the first image is the main Himalayan Range, with tall, snow covered mountains that dominate the skyline. In front of these high peaks is the Lower Himalaya, which consists of gentler slopes and lower elevations. Together, these ranges show the vast size and complexity of the Himalayan region.
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The Jos plateau of Nigeria: An overview

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  The Jos Plateau of Nigeria: An Overview The Jos Plateau is a major highland region located in north-central Nigeria, mainly within Plateau State. It stands out from the surrounding lowlands because of its elevated relief, cooler climate, and distinct physical features. With an average height of about 1,200 meters above sea level, the plateau plays an important role in Nigeria’s physical geography and human activities. Geologically, the Jos Plateau is known for its ancient rock formations, mainly granites and volcanic rocks formed through long periods of earth movement and erosion. The area is especially famous for its tin and columbite deposits, which led to extensive mining activities during the colonial period. Although large-scale mining has declined, its environmental effects, such as abandoned mine ponds and altered landforms, are still visible today. The climate of the Jos Plateau is milder than that of most parts of Nigeria. Temperatures are generally lower due to the high...
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The Amazon forest: a vital treasure of the Earth

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  The Amazon forest is one of the most important natural regions on Earth. It stretches across several South American countries and covers millions of square kilometres. Often called the “lungs of the planet,” the Amazon plays a major role in regulating the global climate and supporting life. The forest is home to an extraordinary variety of plants and animals. Tall trees form a dense canopy, while rivers and small streams flow through the forest floor. Thousands of species of birds, insects, mammals, and reptiles live here, many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. This rich biodiversity helps maintain ecological balance and provides food, medicine, and shelter for both wildlife and human communities. The Amazon is also vital to indigenous peoples who have lived there for centuries. These communities depend on the forest for their livelihoods, culture, and identity. Their traditional knowledge has helped protect the forest and use its resources in sustainable ways....
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Wli falls and its Environmental significance

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  Wli Falls and Its Environmental Significance in the Volta Region of Ghana Wli Falls, located in the Volta Region of Ghana near the Togo border, is widely recognised as the highest waterfall in West Africa. It lies within the Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary, an area known for its rich biodiversity and striking natural landscapes. Beyond its visual appeal, Wli Falls holds ecological, cultural, and economic importance that makes it a valuable natural resource worthy of protection and scholarly attention. Geographically, Wli Falls is formed by the Agumatsa River, which flows from the Togo Atakora Mountains into Ghana. The waterfall is divided into an upper and a lower section, both surrounded by dense tropical rainforest. The steep cliffs and forest cover create a microclimate that supports diverse plant and animal species, including bats, butterflies, birds, and rare forest plants. This ecological setting highlights the role of waterfalls as natural systems that support life beyond thei...
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Polar ice as a record of Environmental History

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Antarctica is the southernmost, coldest, driest, and windiest continent, largely covered by a massive ice sheet storing 60% of Earth's fresh water. As the fifth-largest continent, it has no permanent human population but hosts 1,000-5,000 scientists annually. Governed by the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, it is dedicated to peace and scientific research, harbouring unique fauna like penguins and seals.  Key Facts About Antarctica:  Geography: It surrounds the South Pole, with 98% of its landmass covered by ice that averages 1.9 km in thickness. It is divided into East and West Antarctica by the Transantarctic Mountains. Climate: The average yearly temperature is -30° C. It is considered a polar desert, with very low precipitation. Wildlife: Life is limited to coastal areas and includes penguins (Emperor, Adélie), seals, whales, and microorganisms. Scientific Importance: It serves as a vital location for climate change studies, holding ice cores that reveal past atmospheric conditions....
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