DSN → URC

Qilian Mountain Range

Stunning views of the perennial glaciers and high-altitude peaks along the southern horizon.

Jiayuguan Pass

The western end of the Great Wall of China is visible as the flight traverses the Gansu province.

Hexi Corridor Oases

Lush green patches of agriculture in Zhangye and Jiuquan contrasting with the surrounding desert.

Eastern Tianshan

The rugged peaks of the Tianshan range come into view as the aircraft crosses into Xinjiang.

Kumtag Desert

Views of the shifting sand dunes at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert near the end of the cruise.

Badain Jaran Desert

Vast stretches of some of the world's tallest sand dunes and hidden salt lakes to the north.

Gobi Desert

The 'Black Gobi' region displays a stark, otherworldly landscape of dark gravel plains.

Bogda Peak

The majestic 5,445m summit of the Bogda Shan is often visible during the descent into Urumqi.

Barkol Lake

A high-altitude saline lake that appears as a bright blue jewel amidst the arid terrain.

Hami Basin

View the unique geography of this low-lying depression surrounded by desert mountains.