Aerial Photography of Southern California

Eastern Mojave Desert

Return to Southern California Index Map

To view the unlabeled photo click here, or go to http://eol.jsc.nasa.gov .

The eastern Mojave Desert is a vast, arid expanse characterized by small mountain ranges, broad sediment-filled valleys, and dry lake beds (playas).   Few people live in the California portion of the eastern Mojave Desert, with Barstow, Yucca Valley, and Twenty-nine Palms being the main population centers.   Most people pass through the Mojave Desert in route to another destination, but those who linger are rewarded with spectacular desert scenery of distant mountain ranges, dune fields, volcanoes, and a surprising variety of plants and animals.   Protected portions of the eastern Mojave Desert include Joshua Tree National Park, Eastern Mojave Scenic Preserve, and a number of designated wilderness areas.

Note that flights over the Mojave Desert will take place in 2008, and the aerial photographs will be added as soon as possible thereafter.