Each month, NASA Earth Observatory presents a fascinating satellite image puzzle. The September 2026 puzzle is shown above. Can you identify the location captured in this mysterious view of Earth?
Your challenge
Identify the location shown in this satellite image. Tell us what clue you noticed, where you think the image was taken, and why the location is interesting or unique to you.
How to answer
Submit your response using this form and select “Puzzle Answers” as the topic. Be sure to include your preferred name or alias.
You can keep your response simple by guessing the location. Want to impress us? Tell us which satellite or instrument captured the image and identify the spectral band used. You can also describe subtle details related to the area’s geology, geography, or history. If something caught your eye—or if this place is your home or has special meaning to you—we would love to hear your perspective.
Prize
There is no prize money or opportunity for space travel, although astronauts do view Earth from space. Instead, the reward is the satisfaction of solving a challenging satellite image puzzle and sharing your discovery with fellow Earth-observation enthusiasts.
About one week after the challenge begins, we will publish reader answers at the top of this page, along with a link to the NASA Earth Observatory “Image of the Day” story explaining the satellite image in greater detail. We will recognize the first person to correctly identify the location and may feature readers who submit especially thoughtful or interesting answers. By submitting a response, you agree that your comment may be edited, excerpted, and published on this page.
Until then, zoom in, examine the details, and enjoy this NASA satellite image puzzle. Good luck!
Source: science.nasa.gov