Looking @ Earth -- Gallery Tour

Throughout history we have sought to better understand our world by viewing it from above. We first climbed trees and hills and fortress towers to observe the lay of the land. Today, aircraft and spacecraft look down on Earth to predict the weather, survey the terrain, monitor crops and forests, plan cities, locate resources, and gather intelligence.
From balloons, to aircraft, to spacecraft, we have pushed ourselves higher and higher toward different goals and challenges. Yet, to many who have participated in these thrilling voyages, the best part of all was looking back toward home.
As you journey through the gallery, place the pointer over a thumbnail image, and the caption will display on the right side of your browser window.