Some parts of our world are drying out, and it’s happening quickly 🏜️ Desertification is the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas. It’s often caused by human activity and climate change, and it puts biodiversity, food security, and livelihoods at risk — especially in vulnerable regions. For this world day to combat desertification, we’re sharing satellite images and astronaut photos of some of the most iconic drylands on Earth. From the vast Rub’ al Khali and Atacama Desert to the salt-cracked lakebeds of Australia and California, these landscapes tell a powerful story. With the help of Earth observation satellites and astronauts on the iss, we monitor land degradation across the globe together with our partners. These images are not only striking — they help scientists and policymakers track changes, understand impacts, and support communities working to restore ecosystems. By adopting sustainable land practices and working together across borders, we c...