ISS010-E-22273 Click the photo number to access all resolutions available and the database record.
An earlier image, shot by astronauts with a handheld camera in 2003, shows the outline of the palm nearing completion. Two years later, the palm appears in its all its glory to passing space travelers. It has so far required over 50 million cubic meters of sand to raise it above the sea surface. Palm Island is the last of three major developments designed to transform the Dubai coastline into a major coastal metropolitan area and tourist destination. When completed, the resort is expected to support a population of approximately 500,000 people.
