I am a desert known for its extreme aridity and otherworldly landscapes. My name derives from a word meaning 'place of dryness.' I contain features like the 'Hand of the Desert' sculpture and the 'Moon Valley' (Valle de la Luna). I am also a prime location for astronomical observation due to my clear skies and high altitude. What desert am I?
- I'm located in South America.
- I am considered the driest non-polar desert on Earth.
- I'm rich in mineral deposits, particularly nitrates.
- My landscapes have been used to simulate Mars for scientific research.