143.5K
BENASA confirmed that the bright areas in the image are simply India’s cities and towns — not fireworks or diyas visible from space. Still, it’s a stunning visual reminder of India’s rapid urban growth and the luminous spirit of Diwali that continues to shine, even if not seen from orbit.
Every year, a colourful image of India glowing at night goes viral around Diwali — said to show the entire nation lighting up during the Festival of Lights. But NASA has clarified that this isn’t an actual satellite photo taken on Diwali night.
The viral image is real, but it’s not what most people think. It’s a composite map created in 2003 by NOAA scientist Chris Elvidge, using data from the US Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP).
The colours represent city light growth over time — white for lights before 1992, blue for 1992–1998, green for 1998–2003, and red for newer developments.
#NASA #IndiaFromSpace #DiwaliFacts #FestivalOfLights #EarthAtNight #ScienceExplained #IncredibleIndia #SpaceView #MythVsReality #diwali2025 #FactCheck #Astronomy
@beyondoursky01
