Image of the day

Deception Island

Earth Observation | Copernicus
Antarctic
Lakes
Sea and Lake Ice
Volcanoes
Deception Island
Location: Deception Island
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

On 17 March 2023, one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites captured this rare cloud-free image of  Deception Island.

Deception Island is an active volcanic caldera located in the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. It has long been the focus of intense interest from both tourists and researchers because of its remarkable geology and unique ecological characteristics. The island, boasts a horseshoe-shaped caldera, a distinguishing feature formed by a large volcanic eruption approximately 10,000 years ago. This caldera creates a unique sheltered harbour that has previously served as a natural haven for whaling and sealing ships . Moreover, the caldera's shape provides a protective barrier from strong winds and currents, creating a microclimate that supports a rich and diverse ecosystem. 

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