Taklamakan Desert, China - June 2nd, 2009

The Taklamakan Desert is China’s largest desert, situated in the middle of the Tarim Basin in Xinjiang Province.

Sand dunes, like those visible in the upper half of this image, are usually over 100m (109 yds) high, though some may reach heights of over 300 meters (about 328 yards).

Strong winds constantly shift the sand dunes, which scientists estimate to move about 150 meters (164 yards) per year, seriously threatening the existence of oases and the survival of local populations.

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