Similarly, deserts in Africa, Arabia, Australia, Mongolia, and the United States are poorly lit, except along the coast and rivers. The interior jungles of Africa and South America are mostly dark as well, highlighting the challenges that people in these regions face in accessing electricity and infrastructure. Antarctica, for example, is entirely dark, and exploring this region on the Night Earth map gives us a glimpse into its isolation and otherworldly beauty.

However, there are still regions on our planet that remain thinly populated and unlit. It is fascinating to observe how this river has been a vital source of life and civilization for thousands of years, and its significance is clearly visible on the Night Earth map. The Nile River, from the Aswan Dam to the Mediterranean Sea, is another bright thread that stands out in an otherwise dark region. For example, the United States interstate highway system is visible as a lattice connecting the brighter dots of city centers, while in Russia, the Trans-Siberian railroad appears as a thin line stretching from Moscow through the center of Asia to Vladivostok. While western Europe appears to be one of the brightest areas on the map, it is interesting to note that it may not necessarily be the most populated when compared to countries like China and India.Ĭities tend to grow along coastlines and transportation networks, and this is reflected in the Night Earth map. One of the most striking features of the Night Earth map is how it showcases the differences in urbanization and population density across different regions of the world. It provides a stunning view of the Earth's surface, showing the lights that are visible at night and highlighting the areas that are the brightest and most urbanized. The Night Earth map is a fascinating tool that allows us to explore our planet's light pollution in a unique and informative way.

Map satellite street view