The trans-siberian railroad
| In this early spring view over Russia, the thin black linear extension of the Trans-Siberian Railroad contrasts sharply with the snow covered ground. Only a small section of the 9340-kilometer railway is seen here extending westward toward the horizon. Major cities dot the route at intervals corresponding to the refueling distances for coal-fired locomotive engines. The city of Omsk is the large black spot in the foreground. Transport of people and goods by rail is generally less expensive than by airplane or auto, but still more expensive than by ship. In the vast landmass of northern Russia and Siberia, where the northern route by sea can be blocked by ice for many months, the Trans-Siberian Railroad serves as a crucial lifeline. This image was taken on shuttle flight STS-59. The lights along the Trans-Siberial Railroad can also been seen at night in the DMSP images. |
Credit: Courtesy Kam Lulla, JSC. For more images of this type, see the "Human Imprints from Space" slide set (Gwynn, Wilkinson, and Lulla; Lunar and Planetary Institute #989)
For more info: http://images.jsc.nasa.gov/iams/images/earth/STS059/html/20141636.htm