The Veil of Haze and Smoke Observed on Earth from Space

In this captivating image captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellite in October 2023, we are granted a stunning view of the northern plains of India and Pakistan, shrouded in a thick haze that blankets the region. Let us delve into the details of this mesmerizing snapshot to explore the various factors contributing to this mysterious phenomenon.

As we zoom in on the image, we are immediately drawn to the lower part, where we find the plains at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas engulfed in a dense haze and smoke. The cause of this haze lies in the stark contrast between the humid plains and the mountainous areas dominating the upper part of the image. The humidity of the flatlands can lead to moisture buildup, resulting in atmospheric conditions that favor the formation of haze.

However, it is not only humidity that contributes to this natural spectacle. Smoke plays a significant role, adding an ethereal touch to the white veil that envelops the region. The smoke arises from a practice known as paddy stubble burning, prevalent in the Indian regions of Punjab and Haryana. At the end of each growing season, farmers burn the residual crops to prepare the fields for the next cycle. This traditional method, while effective for land cultivation purposes, releases substantial amounts of smoke, further intensifying the captivating haze.

Turning our attention away from the plains, we are greeted by the majestic snow-clad peaks of the Hindu Kush, majestically dominating the top left portion of the image. To the east, we find the Karakoram range, creating a mesmerizing backdrop against the haze-laden plains. These mountain ranges showcase the breathtaking beauty that nature offers, their summits eternally kissed by snowflakes.

North of the Himalayas, a part of the Tibetan Plateau comes into view, with numerous lakes speckling its terrain. Many of these lakes remain frozen for extended periods throughout the year, bearing testimony to the harsh climate of this high-altitude region. Standing tall at an average elevation of over 4500 meters, the Tibetan Plateau is indisputably Earth’s loftiest plateau. Covering an area four times the size of France, this vast expanse reigns as the largest plateau on our planet, a testament to the awe-inspiring diversity that Earth has to offer.

The remarkable variation in altitude and vegetation between the Tibetan Plateau and the plains of India and Pakistan results in a striking distinction in color between the upper and lower parts of the image. This stark contrast is a reminder of the immense geographical and ecological diversity found in this region of our globe.

Through the lens of the Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellite, we are granted a panoramic view of the enigmatic haze shrouding the plains of northern India and Pakistan. This image is not merely a visual treat but also an opportunity to appreciate the intricate balance between nature and human activities. From paddy stubble burning to the breathtaking beauty of snow-capped mountain peaks, this snapshot serves as a reminder of the mesmerizing wonders that lie within our reach, waiting to be explored and protected.