This southeast-looking view shows the beautiful light blue waters surrounding Ouvea Island. Ouvea Island is a coral atoll that rests on the remains of a submerged volcanic island. The coral atoll was uplifted millions of years ago giving birth to the slightly raised land mass now visible on the image. Only the southeast portion of the present island was uplifted, thus the overall island retains its original appearance particularly the island’s large lagoon. The 16 miles (25 km) of white sandy beach facing the lagoon is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are no rivers on Ouvea Island. The water, which supplies the people who live on the island, comes from rain that seeps through the calcareous soil and forms freshwater pools. Ouvea Island is approximately 62 miles (100 km) northeast of New Caledonia. Beautemps Atoll is visible near the lower right of the image. Jovan Reef is discernible in the upper left portion of the image.