Abstract Wonder

In southwestern Turkey, the winding Büyük Menderes River shaped human history. Now, it's humans who will carve its future course.

This beautiful, satiny optical phenomenon can wreck satellite imaging, but it can also reveal hidden aspects of our planet.

Studying the animal’s nerve network may help scientists understand our own.

The Alaska delta, one of the world's largest, is a ‘mosaic’ environment best visualized with a psychedelic palette.

A photographer captured water's ability to carve out new paths in all their fractal glory.

Despite challenging terrain, these narrow plots produce tons of grain, nuts, fruits, and flowers each year.

An avid microscopist captured an unusual image that has nothing to do with surf and sand.

Mining operations at one of Russia's largest gold deposits includes a method that leaves twisty tracks on the landscape.

Bolivia's Lake Uru Uru faces an uncertain future: a growing city, toxic runoff, and drought worsened by climate change.

Critically endangered, and a much-sought delicacy, the animals are imperiled at every turn.

On the Arabian Peninsula, Jubbah holds clues to how humans adapted in the past.

The Back River remains visually distinct from its tributary, the Hayes River, for several miles after their confluence.

Centuries of devotion line the walls.

A collection of curious and wondrous views from around the world.

It's easy to see why the island attracts artists and geology lovers.

Everything looks cool from the International Space Station.

These otherworldly landscapes are no mirage.

Inequality was built-in.