Earth observations taken during STS-77 mission
Summary
STS077-732-093 (19-29 May 1996) --- This high oblique perspective from the Space Shuttle Endeavour shows the Dead Sea Rift Valley and the surrounding deserts. North is to the right side of the frame. The vegetation line on the coast between Egypt and Israel is clearly visible. Crete is visible in the Mediterranean Sea. The Dead Sea was formed approximately 3 million years ago. A passage opened up to the sea and the water poured in. It is about 1,300 feet below sea level. It is fed by the Jordan River and numerous mineral springs from the surrounding hills. It is estimated to contain 43 million metric tons of salt. The salinity is 32 percent.
Tags
johnson space center
earth
earth observations
sts
high resolution
dead sea rift valley
dead sea
sea level
space shuttle endeavour
million years
sts 77 mission
right side
vegetation line
million
jordan river
mediterranean sea from space
nasa
Date
28/05/1996
Source
NASA
Link
Copyright info
Public Domain Dedication (CC0)