Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès, Niger
Rising to 2,022 metres, Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès is the highest peak in Niger and a prominent feature of the Aïr Massif in the north of the country. This mountainous region of volcanic origin stands out as a biodiversity hotspot within the arid expanse of the southern Sahara.
This natural-colour image, acquired on 8 September 2025 by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites, shows Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès and its surroundings in northern Niger. The area, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, plays a key role in preserving biodiversity and supporting traditional livelihoods in one of the driest regions on Earth.
The Copernicus Sentinel satellites provide essential data for monitoring remote regions worldwide, including desert areas. These observations are essential for tracking environmental changes and informing efforts to preserve and protect vulnerable ecosystems.