During his Expedition 71/72 mission (2024–25), NASA astronaut Don Pettit photographed the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in near-infrared from the International Space Station. This delta, sprawling across West Bengal and Bangladesh, is the planet’s largest river delta lush, fertile, and richly interlaced with the intricate networks of the Hooghly and Meghna rivers. Known as the “Green Delta,” it spans the Sundarbans region, a mosaic of mangrove forests, tidal creeks, and small islands.

The image captures not only geographic beauty but also ecological vibrancy highlighting sediment-laden waters flowing into the Bay of Bengal, shaping human livelihoods and wildlife habitats alike.

Pettit’s shot underscores the ISS’s unique vantage point in bridging Earth’s natural majesty with space-based observation. It’s a silent invitation to reflect on the delicate balance between our planet’s splendor and fragility. As climate risks rise, such imagery serves both as a visual treat and a vital ecological record.