Uluru rocks from space

A STRIKING photo of Uluru taken from a satellite has gone viral and cemented the spiritual heart of Australia as a top tourist destination.

Supplied Editorial

A STRIKING photo of Uluru taken from a satellite has gone viral and cemented the spiritual heart of Australia as a top tourist destination.

The image of the world’s most famous majestic rock was taken by the Korean Kompsat-2 satellite at an altitude of 685km and has been shared online thousands of times since it was posted on Twitter by Tourism NT earlier this month.

Tourism NT spokeswoman Kim Wheatley said the picture shows a different perspective of Uluru.

“Aerial images from scenic flights and helicopter rides have been published time and again, but this is unique and gives Uluru … one of the world’s most iconic locations … a whole new perspective,” she said.

Ms Wheatley said the image showcases the imposing imprint Uluru makes on the Central Australian landscape.

“The 11km ring road, which allows visitors to drive around Uluru and experience it up close, is clearly visible,” she said. “The striking lines in the rock, known as striations, show the vertical layers of the ­formation.”

Ms Wheatley said social media had a significant impact on marketing the Northern Territory.

“Images help tell a story and position the NT as an aspirational destination with ‘must do’ experiences,” she said.

“Sharing content via social media makes it easier for travellers to learn about experiences that are on offer.”

Ms Wheatley said Tourism NT was encouraging travellers to use the #ntaustralia hashtag when posting travel pics of the NT on social media.

“Extraordinary natural landscapes with active captions spark the best response, which is consistent with social media trends across destination marketing,” she said.