Image: Algae swirls across a South African reservoir

NASA images show extent of algal blooms at Hartbeespoort Dam

Striking NASA satellite images have revealed the extent of recurring algal blooms at Hartbeespoort Dam, showing bright green swirls spreading across the reservoir’s waters. Captured from space, the images form part of an animation tracking changes at the dam between June 2022 and July 2023. It shows how the blooms grow, drift across the water and eventually fade – only to return again. The visuals were compiled using data from multiple Earth-obs…

Image: Algae swirls across a South African reservoir

On clear days in Hartbeespoort, South Africa, satellite images often reveal a reservoir with shades of deep blue interrupted by drifting patches of vivid green. These shifting features indicate algae blooms, which can affect water quality, ecosystems, and nearby human communities.

Algae Swirls Across a South African Reservoir - NASA Science

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