A 'lunar' landscape

The sweeping rock formation at the center of our image reminds us of a stadium or performance venue, but you won't be seeing sports or Shakespeare here anytime soon. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this spectacular landscape lies within the Atacama Desert, one of the least habitable places on Earth. In some parts of this vast, dry stretch of Chile, rain hasn't fallen in hundreds of years—though what with the gathering gray clouds, it looks like the valley might be in for a few drops. No doubt that's welcome news for the 3,900 folks who live in San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis village about 8 miles to the east.