On The Roof Of The World
Airglow Ripples, Tibetan Plateau (credit: NASA/Jeff Dai)
Tibet is often called the Roof of the World or The Third Pole for the massive volume of water stored by its glaciers. The otherworldly region, with elevations averaging 12,000 feet and upwards, offers vast vistas, wild landscapes, and huge mountain ranges seen in few other places on Earth. An image of airglow was captured by a NASA photographer and shows how amazing night views can be on this high plateau.
Alterations of the Tibetan environment are now underway, caused by climate change affecting the landscapes across the plateau. The consequences will not only affect Tibet but lower elevations in South and East Asia what are supplied by Tibet's water. NASA has initiated remote-sensing programs using their satellites to measure and monitor the changes.
With luminous skies, extensive mountains, and glaciers like these, it's no wonder Tibetans attribute great significance to magical visions and the omens of monks. The Tibetans care deeply about their environment. If only other people cared as much concern for theirs.
WHB