The Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite fleet, operated by the European Space Agency, has captured a striking photograph of the Moroccan town of Ouarzazate, renowned for its role in hosting various Hollywood blockbusters. This image has intrigued scientists, showcasing an unusual reddish hue across the region.
This visual phenomenon, which spreads across the map, is not indicative of any environmental disaster. Instead, it results from advanced optical remote sensing techniques utilized in 2026. The image was taken through the near-infrared channel equipped on the spacecraft, which plays a crucial role in assessing the health and density of vegetation.
Healthy plants absorb red light while strongly reflecting green and infrared radiation. Consequently, vibrant vegetation reflects a significantly higher percentage of energy, causing agricultural lands to appear with a strikingly bright scarlet tone to researchers. Notably, the branches of this reddish area follow the riverbeds that traverse the semi-arid geography of the Anti-Atlas mountain range. Ouarzazate's desert plains have served as the backdrop for numerous famous films and series, including Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones.
Apart from its tourist appeal, the analysis of this satellite imagery reveals several infrastructures of considerable logistical interest. To the east of the urban center lies the El Mansour Eddahbi reservoir, located alongside the Ouarzazate River and the waters of the Draa.
As reported by mundodeportivo.com.
