Beijing, January 12 (Reporter Gao Kai) - "Between Looking Up and Down: Three Mountains and Two Basins," a popular science work on geography that uses the geographical pattern as a key to systematically interpret the natural mysteries of Xinjiang, was recently published by Xinjiang Science and Technology Press.
"Three Mountains and Two Basins"—the Altai Mountains in the north, the Tianshan Mountains in the center, and the Kunlun Mountains in the south, along with the Junggar Basin and the Tarim Basin they embrace—not only constitute the most fundamental natural framework of this land, but also bear witness to the magnificent epic of hundreds of millions of years of geological changes and the fusion of civilizations. "Between Looking Up and Down—Three Mountains and Two Basins" is considered to not only lead readers to appreciate the magnificent landscapes of Xinjiang, but also guide them to a deeper understanding of the multiple significances of this land at the natural, cultural, and national strategic levels.
"Between Looking Up and Down: Three Mountains and Two Basins" has been released. (Photo courtesy of the publisher)The book uses the core geographical feature of "three mountains and two basins" as its main thread to construct a complete and clear framework for understanding nature: from a geological perspective, it delves into the mystery of the uplift of the three major mountain ranges and the sedimentary history of the two major basins, showcasing the dramatic changes in Xinjiang from the ancient Tethys Ocean to the modern arid zone; from an ecological perspective, it systematically elaborates on the complete ecological spectrum of the Altai Mountains, Tianshan Mountains, and Kunlun Mountains, and how the changes in the water system within the basins have shaped oasis civilizations; from a resource perspective, it comprehensively reviews Xinjiang's natural endowments as a national strategic resource base: from the "gold mines" of the Altai Mountains to the oil and gas-rich areas of the Tarim Basin, from the jade treasure trove of the Kunlun Mountains to the modern agricultural potential of the Junggar Basin, each resource distribution is closely linked to a specific geological background.
According to the introduction, the title "Between Looking Up and Down" contains a profound logic for understanding Xinjiang: In terms of spatial dimension, "looking down" uses map thinking to understand the basin pattern—why is the Tarim Basin arid? Why is the Junggar Basin relatively humid? "Looking up" uses an experiential perspective to feel the grandeur of the mountains—how did the Tianshan Mountains become the backbone of Asia? How did the Kunlun Mountains form a geographical barrier? In terms of temporal dimension, "looking down" examines rock strata to read hundreds of millions of years of geological history, from ancient lakes in the Permian to shallow seas in the Cretaceous; "looking up" focuses on glaciers to pay attention to current geographical changes, showing the real impact of climate change through comparison.
The book not only introduces the hydrological characteristics of the Tarim River, but also interprets the epic story of the "life restoration" of this largest inland river in China; it not only analyzes the formation of the Taklamakan Desert, but also records the practice and achievements of the new era's desertification control project—the Taklamakan Desert Border Locking Project. The book also explores practical issues related to development and protection, such as snow leopard conservation in the Kunlun Mountains, preservation of genetic resources in wild fruit forests of the Tianshan Mountains, ecological water transfer in the Tarim River, and mineral resource development in the Junggar Basin, showcasing Xinjiang's exploration and reflections on ecological civilization construction and sustainable development.
Furthermore, while disseminating geographical knowledge, the book also imbues popular science works with contemporary value. By showcasing the magnificent natural beauty, unique ecology, abundant resources, and important status of Xinjiang, it helps readers understand Xinjiang's unique position in the Belt and Road Initiative, energy resource security, and ecological security. (End)
