Skip to main content

Sørvágsvatn, the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, is captured in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image from September 4, 2024. Located on the island of Vágar, near the village of Sørvágur, the lake spans approximately 3.4 square kilometers. While its actual elevation is around 30 meters above sea level, a striking optical illusion makes it appear as though the lake is dramatically suspended high above the ocean.

Satellite image: Sørvágsvatn Lake in the Faroe Islands
Faroe Islands. Credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

This illusion, best seen from the cliffs of Trælanípa, is created by the steep coastal terrain and the perspective from which the scene is viewed. The lake’s waters ultimately drain into the North Atlantic via the Bøsdalafossur waterfall. This natural phenomenon has made Sørvágsvatn, also known as Leitisvatn, a popular subject for photographers and a major attraction for visitors to the Faroe Islands.

Beyond its visual spectacle, Sørvágsvatn holds ecological importance. The Copernicus Sentinel satellites provide valuable data on land cover changes, soil erosion, and habitat shifts in the region. This information helps guide conservation efforts and sustainable tourism initiatives, ensuring that the lake’s pristine landscape is preserved for future generations.

Featured image credit: European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-2 imagery

Danish hospitals aim to reduce plastic waste and boost recycling
Danish hospitals aim to reduce plastic waste and boost recyclingNews

Danish hospitals aim to reduce plastic waste and boost recycling

Researchers from Roskilde University are leading an ambitious project called CircleHealth, which aims to reduce the consumption of plastic and textiles in hospitals across three…
Adrian AlexandreAdrian AlexandreSeptember 10, 2024 Full article
Cocaine trafficking threatens critical bird habitats
Cocaine trafficking threatens critical bird habitatsScience

Cocaine trafficking threatens critical bird habitats

By Pat Leonard Cornell Lab of Ornithology | Cornell University In addition to its human consequences, cocaine trafficking harms the environment and threatens habitats important…
SourceSourceJune 13, 2024 Full article