Image of the day

Water patterns in the Lake St. Clair

Earth Observation | Copernicus
Lakes
Water Colour
Water patterns in the Lake St. Clair
Location: Lake Saint Clair, North America
Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

This image, acquired on 19 April by one of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites, depicts Lake Saint Clair, one of the Great Lakes of North America. 

During the winter months, the lake's climate is shaped by cold air masses from the Article Circle, resulting in the formation of sea ice in the lake's waters and heavy snowfall in surrounding areas. As spring arrives and the thawing process begins, Lake Saint Clair transforms. The increased water turbidity resulting from the snow and ice melting leads to the formation of stunning patterns, with swirls of blue and purple blending together in a hypnotic display. 

By analysing the data collected by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellites, researchers can determine the concentration of suspended particles in water, which is a key indicator of its turbidity.
 

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