NASA Shares New Photos Of Tampa Bay From Outer Space
At one point or another, we’ve probably all wondered what it would be like to go to space. Could you spot where your house was from all the way up there? NASA released photos showing what Tampa Bay from outer space looks like and you may not recognize it at first.
We were checking out the r/Tampa Reddit Thread when we came across the discussion about what Tampa Bay from outer space looks like. The original poster shared one of the images and the people of Tampa chimed in.
The first commenter said, “It’s weird how alien it looks when it isn’t oriented with north pointing up.” I’d have to agree. When I first saw the picture I didn’t even realize what I was looking at.
We look at the overview of Tampa every day through maps, but for some reason, looking at it with the West facing up, it’s hard to see straight out the gate. Now we know what ET was feeling when he came down to Earth.
Photos Of Tampa Bay From Outer Space
Both of these photos were taken on May 27, 2024, from the East and the West sides of Tampa Bay. They are mainly showing South Tampa, Pinellas County, and Bradenton areas.
This first photo of Tampa Bay from outer space shows South Tampa and the surrounding cities of Tampa Bay throughout Pinellas County, Bradenton, and the Gulf of Mexico. At first glance, it’s hard to recognize since it’s turned 90 degrees from what we normally see on the map.
The Second photo of Tampa Bay from outer space shows Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the suburbs of Tampa Bay. The photos were taken over the Gulf of Mexico from the International Space Station orbiting 261 miles above.
To learn more about the photos taken by NASA over Tampa Bay, click here. You can find interactive versions of these photos here: photo 1 and photo 2.
Free Or Cheap Beach Parking In Tampa Bay
Fort Desoto Beach
Fort Desoto Beach is absolutely beautiful peaceful beach that’s a great option. Last time we went it was anywhere between $5-$8 per car for parking. Either way that’s a steal compared to other areas that are charging an arm and a leg.
Sand Key Park
Entrance to the park is free and parking only costs $5 per day. However, they are closed on certain holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. They open daily at 7 a.m. and close at sunset. Great option for families.
Honeymoon Island
Another option you might like is Honeymoon Island. Last time we went it was only $8 for per car and very relaxing. That is way more affordable than $70 at other beaches. Definitely worth the drive to check it out.
St Pete Beach
Life hack for you! Park behind the shops, where residents live, there’s always parking, and no one tows. Yes, it’s slightly further of a walk, but it’s really not that far, maybe extra 5 minutes of walking, but it’s free parking.
Clearwater Beach
There’s several areas there that are hourly and it only costs $2 an hour. You can find the location on the Parkmobile app. Check before you go are on your way there. Again, get there early.
