Ascension Island (1)#

Ascension Island (1)
Image courtesy of NASA., under PD
In the southern Atlantic Ocean roughly midway between central South America and central Africa, sits Ascension Island. A small, rocky, volcanic outcrop covered in many places by lava flows and cinder cones of dormant volcanoes, the island sits just west of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

In this detailed satellite image taken 24 February 2003, marbled-looking lava flows can be seen dominating the northwest coast, with smaller flows visible on the southwest coast below the islands Wideawake Airfield, as well as on the southeast coast.

Northeast of the airstrip, a large cinder cone is visible, its dark brown center fading to tan in a series of pale rings. This crater, the islands largest, is called Devils Riding School. Crisp, white surf breaks along the shores.