Ngulu Atoll facts for kids
NASA picture of Ngulu Atoll
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| Geography | |
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| Location | North Pacific |
| Archipelago | Caroline |
| Total islands | 9 |
| Area | 0.4 km2 (0.15 sq mi) |
| Highest elevation | 2 m (7 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 26 (2000) |
| Ethnic groups | Micronesian |
Ngulu Atoll is a small group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is made up of three main islands and several smaller ones. These islands are part of the Caroline Islands chain.
Ngulu Atoll is also a special area, or "legislative district," within Yap State. Yap State is part of the Federated States of Micronesia.
The atoll stretches about 36 kilometers (22 miles) long and 22 kilometers (14 miles) wide. It has 18 parts of a reef that surround a deep central lagoon. This lagoon covers a large area of about 382 square kilometers (147 square miles).
The total land area of all nine small islands is very tiny. It is only about 0.4 square kilometers (0.15 square miles).
Ngulu is located about 104 kilometers (65 miles) south-southwest of Yap. It is the westernmost atoll in the Federated States of Micronesia. In the year 2000, only 26 people lived on Ngulu.
Ngulu Atoll: A Pacific Gem
Ngulu Atoll is a type of island called a coral atoll. This means it's a ring-shaped coral reef. This reef grows around a lagoon. The lagoon is usually where an old volcano used to be. Over time, the volcano sinks, and the coral keeps growing upwards.
The atoll is a beautiful natural wonder. It is home to a small community. The people living there are Micronesian. They are part of the rich culture of the Pacific islands.
Where is Ngulu Atoll?
Ngulu Atoll is found in the western part of the Pacific Ocean. It is part of a larger group of islands. These islands are known as the Caroline Islands.
The atoll is quite isolated. It is far from larger landmasses. This makes it a unique and peaceful place. Its location is important for understanding its history.
A Look at Ngulu's Past
The first time Ngulu Atoll was officially seen by Europeans was in 1565. A Spanish explorer named Alonso de Arellano recorded it. He was on a ship called the San Lucas.
Later, in 1802, another Spanish naval officer, Don Juan Lafita, explored the atoll more closely.
Changing Hands
Like many islands in the Pacific, Ngulu Atoll's ownership changed over time. In 1899, Spain sold the Caroline Islands to Germany. This meant Ngulu became a German territory.
After World War I, Japan took control of the island. It was managed under something called the South Seas Mandate. This was a special agreement.
After World War II, the United States of America took over. Ngulu Atoll became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. This was from 1947 onwards.
Finally, in 1979, the island became part of the new country. This country is the Federated States of Micronesia. Today, Ngulu Atoll is a part of this independent nation.
