Full moon helps paint vibrant, muddy 'brushstrokes' in Indonesian river — Earth from space
A satellite image from June 2024 shows striking 'brushstroke-like' sediment patterns at the mouth of Indonesia's Rokan River. The patterns were created by a high tide following the full 'Strawberry Moon,' which amplified tidal forces. The Landsat 8 satellite captured the river's estuary as it discharged sediment-laden water into the Strait of Malacca.
- ▪The Rokan River is approximately 220 miles (350 km) long and flows through Sumatra, Indonesia.
- ▪The image was captured by the Landsat 8 satellite on June 23, 2024, during an exceptionally high tide.
- ▪The high tide was caused by a spring tide following the full 'Strawberry Moon,' which occurs when the sun and moon align.
- ▪Sediment in the river, stirred by tidal movements, creates colorful, brushstroke-like patterns visible from space.
- ▪The Rokan River often appears yellow due to high levels of sand and silt in its waters.
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Planet Earth Rivers & Oceans Full moon helps paint vibrant, muddy 'brushstrokes' in Indonesian river — Earth from space A 2024 satellite snap shows suspended sediments streaking across the mouth of the Rokan River, thanks in part to a particularly high tide caused by a full "Strawberry Moon." By Harry Baker published 28 April 2026 in Features When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Th Landsat 8 satellite spotted a series of "brushstroke-like patterns" in the mouth of the Rokan River, which were painted by an extremely high tide.
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