Let’s Explore Autumn Foliage from Orbit

Fall’s Arrival and Its Colorful Display

Fall has officially graced us with its presence, marked by a noteworthy 23-degree tilt in Earth’s axis. As the days grow shorter and cooler in the Northern Hemisphere, deciduous trees begin to reveal their vibrant autumnal hues—reds, oranges, golds, and browns—by shedding their green chlorophyll.

While the peak time for leaf-peeping varies by latitude and weather patterns, you don’t need to travel far to witness this stunning seasonal change. NASA’s year-round Earth observations have captured beautiful images of autumn foliage that are worth admiring.

Featured Images of Fall Foliage

Nunavut, Canada

Captured on September 6, 2006, by the Landsat 9, this area showcases early-changing tundra flora like willow and birch.
Credit: NASA/Michala Garrison
Lake Superior, USA

Captured on September 22, 2020, by NOAA-20, the banks of Lake Superior reveal early fall colors alongside evergreens.
Credit: NASA
Magallanes, Chile

This image taken in April 2026 shows one of the southernmost temperate forests with vibrant yellow to scarlet fall colors.
Credit: NASA/Lauren Dauphin
Adirondack Mountains, New York

Despite challenging weather conditions in 2022, brilliant colors can be seen among the red maples and aspens.
Credit: NASA/Joshua Stevens
Mount Katahdin, Maine

A snapshot taken on October 13, 2017, shows the contrast of browns and golds across the mountain’s landscape.
Credit: NASA/Joshua Stevens
Central Pennsylvania

Taken on November 9, 2020, these mountains display a blend of russet browns among their ancient folds.
Credit: NASA/Joshua Stevens
Alaska

On September 29, 2017, this image captures the golden tones of Alaska’s flora peeking through storm cover.
Credit: NASA/Joshua Stevens
Japan

A photo of Japan’s vibrant fall foliage, taken from a safe distance in light of volcanic activity.
Credit: NASA/Lauren Dauphin