Patagonia (Argentina) and Southern Chile

This true-color MODIS image from May 8, 2002, shows the South American countries of Chile (left) and Argentina (right). The high peaks of the Andes separate the two countries, and have a dramatic impact on precipitation patterns in the area, with Chile receiving more rain and snowfall than Argentina. Argentina is said to be in the rain shadow of the Andes. The bright color of the high mountain lakes is caused by the glaciers that feed them; the glaciers grind up soils and rocks into very find sediment that is highly reflective.

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Jacques Descloitres, MODIS Land Rapid Response Team, NASA/GSFC

Published May 12, 2002
Data acquired May 8, 2002

Source:

Terra > MODIS

Collection:

Visible Earth