Science

Farewell to Landsat 7: A Journey Through Time with 15 Stunning Earth Images

2025-06-14

Author: Mei

Though it may not be as celebrated as the Hubble or James Webb telescopes, NASA's Landsat 7 has been a silent sentinel, reshaping our understanding of Earth for over 25 years. Launched in 1999, this remarkable satellite was meant to last just five years but instead became one of the longest-running Earth observation missions in history.

From its vantage point 700 kilometers above us, Landsat 7 collected vital data and stunning imagery, revealing the ever-changing face of our planet—from lush forests to melting glaciers and sprawling urban landscapes.

Former director of the US Geological Survey, David Applegate, highlights its importance: "Landsat 7 has played a crucial role in documenting environmental changes—capturing the aftermath of disasters, shifts in land use, and the relentless march of urbanization across the globe." He notes significant events like Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the devastating Haiti earthquake in 2010 that were immortalized through its lens.

After an astounding 6.1 billion kilometers traveled and over 3 million captivating images taken, Landsat 7 is ready to bid farewell this month. Its end will be a carefully orchestrated process—draining batteries, shutting down fuel-line heaters, and silencing communication systems, leaving it to silently drift above Earth for another 55 years before it ultimately reenters the atmosphere.

As we prepare to say goodbye, let’s reflect on 15 unforgettable images from Landsat 7 that showcase the beauty and complexity of our planet. These snapshots capture everything from coral reef conservation efforts in Guinea-Bissau to the environmental impacts of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and emotionally charged moments like 9/11.

15 Unforgettable Images from Landsat 7:

1. Coral Reef Conservation, Guinea-Bissau, West Africa 2. Dragon Lake, Siberia 3. Lena Delta, Siberia 4. The haunting aftermath of 9/11, New York 5. A full continent mosaic of Antarctica 6. Scenes of Bolivian deforestation 7. Icefall at Lambert Glacier, Antarctica 8. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill's impact 9. Stunning views of West Fjords, Iceland 10. The 'Spilt Paint' effect at Dasht-e Kavir, Iran 11. Hurricane Katrina's devastation in New Orleans 12. The majestic Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia 13. Vatnajökull Glacier Ice Cap, Iceland 14. Retreating Upsala Glacier, Argentina 15. The dynamic landscapes of Earth's diverse ecosystems.

As we turn the page on this era of observation, Landsat 7 leaves behind a rich legacy and a treasure trove of images that will continue to educate and inspire future generations.