<h1>Azurite</h1>
Azurite is a soft, deep blue copper mineral result from weathering of copper ore deposits. In the early 19th century, it was also known as chessylite after the type locality at Chessy-les-Mines near Lyon, France.
The mineral, a carbonate with the chemical formula Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2. People has known since ancient times, and in Pliny the Elder&#8217;s Natural History mentioned it under the Greek name kuanos (κυανός: &#8220;deep blue,&#8221; root of English cyan) and the Latin name caeruleum.
The blue of azurite is exceptionally deep and clear. For that reason the mineral has tended to be associated since antiquity with the deep blue color of low-humidity desert and winter skies. The modern English name of the mineral reflects this association, since both azurite and azure which came from via Arabic from the Persian lazhward, an area known for its deposits of another deep blue stone, lapis lazuli (&#8220;stone of azure&#8221;).

What Is Azurite?

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It is widely known among scientists that light sometimes appears to exit a material before it has even entered. This odd "negative time" phenomenon was long seen as an illusion caused by the way waves become distorted by matter. 



Over time, many considered it a harmless quirk of physics, dismissed without much further investigation. Now, fresh experiments suggest that this behavior might carry deeper implications related to "negative time."



Researchers recently posted findings on the preprint server arXiv, drawing global interest and some reservations about what it all means.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-time-is-no-longer-theoretical">"Negative time" is no longer theoretical</h2>



Aephraim Steinberg, a <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> professor in experimental quantum physics, has seen how people can misunderstand discussions about negative time.



"This is tough stuff, even for us to talk about with other physicists. We get misunderstood all the time," he said. His team contends that negative time is not just theoretical but may exist in a measurable way.



They remain cautious in describing their experiments, emphasizing that the results reflect a subtle effect in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>. 



"That time turned out to be negative," Steinberg explained. Their data points to strange interactions between light and matter that defy everyday assumptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-quirks">Quantum quirks</h2>



Their basement lab brims with mirrors, wires, and delicate lasers that track how photons interact with atoms. 



The atoms sometimes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/precise-shape-of-single-photon-light-revealed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorb photons</a> and later emit them, leaving the atoms in an excited state for a short period. Measuring this period was tricky, and to many, it sounded like it might flirt with impossibilities.



Steinberg and graduate student Daniela Angulo focused on the short time atoms remain excited. By collecting data on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atoms emit absorbed light</a>, they uncovered intervals that appeared less than zero. 



"We don't want to say anything traveled backward in time," Steinberg said. "That's a misinterpretation."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-negative-time-doesn-t-violate-reality">"Negative time" doesn't violate reality</h2>



Investigations into quantum phenomena often spark worry about collisions with Einstein's theory of special relativity. 



Yet nothing in these experiments hints that any object can outrun light. Photons here do not convey information faster than physical laws permit, so there is no conflict with long-accepted principles.



Some have questioned whether labeling this interval as negative time might invite confusion. 



The team is aware that such language can sound surreal, but they believe it captures the unusual nature of quantum measurements that drift from usual expectations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photons-and-probabilities">Photons and probabilities</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photons have a split personality</a>, sometimes acting like particles and other times behaving like waves. 



They follow probability rules that let them appear in multiple states at once, prompting a range of possible outcomes. This fuzziness underpins the notion that events do not always fit into a neat timeline.



In standard settings, photons pass through materials in ways consistent with well-established physics. 



But in the group’s experiments, certain measurements produce results that slip into territory most would never predict. 



These findings spark curiosity about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> can present effects that appear at odds with common sense.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reactions-and-skepticism">Reactions and skepticism</h2>



The concept has captured the attention of many, including German theoretical physicist <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErLHm-1c6I4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sabine Hossenfelder</a>, who remains unimpressed. 



"The negative time in this experiment has nothing to do with the passage of time -- it's just a way to describe how photons travel through a medium and how their phases shift," she said in a YouTube video with more than 250,000 views.



Some observers suspect the term negative time is too dramatic and misrepresents the study’s scope. Others argue that a fresh approach could encourage deeper conversations about how quantum processes unfold. 



The researchers maintain they are not rewriting the rules of physics but aiming to highlight the weirdness at play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-tunneling-allow-particles-break-light-speed-barrier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fundamental experiments</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-for-negative-time-studies">Next steps for "negative time" studies</h2>



"We've made our choice about what we think is a fruitful way to describe the results," Steinberg said, adding that while practical applications remain elusive, the findings open new avenues for exploring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum phenomena</a>. 



He acknowledged that many remain skeptical, but he insists the numbers speak for themselves. No serious criticism has challenged their raw data.



"I'll be honest, I don't currently have a path from what we've been looking at toward applications," Steinberg admitted. "We're going to keep thinking about it, but I don't want to get people's hopes up."



Whether the idea of negative time transforms into something with everyday uses remains to be seen, yet the curiosity it sparks is hard to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



To sum it all up, quantum physics has always pushed boundaries, forcing researchers to adjust old assumptions. 



These experiments from the University of Toronto team serve as another reminder that the world behaves in ways that do not always match common intuition. Still, they stress that no claims of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time travel</a> are on the table.



By presenting evidence that something can measure out to less than zero time, these researchers have challenged expectations about how light interacts with matter. 



For now, the puzzle remains a subject of debate. Unraveling the enigma might take further studies, but many agree that investigating such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bizarre possibilities</a> is part of the ongoing effort to understand quantum reality.



The results highlight how experiments can produce outcomes that differ from conventional thinking. Negative intervals in absorption times remain an intriguing piece of a much broader puzzle.



Scientists continue to refine experiments and weigh alternative explanations. Despite lingering questions, the project stands as a reminder that quantum behavior can seem downright strange, to put it mildly.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2409.03680" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arXiv</a>.



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"Negative time" observed in new quantum experiments, surprising scientists

It is widely known among scientists that light sometimes appears...

The world’s largest iceberg has astonished scientists by shaking free from a spinning ocean trap and continuing its trek across remote southern waters.



Its journey, marked by twists and turns since it separated from Antarctica, has become a focus for research on the changing ocean and the ice’s influence on life beneath the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-breaks-free">A23a iceberg breaks free</h2>



The icy slab covers about 1,418 square miles, which makes it bigger than Rhode Island. 



It originally broke away from <a href="https://eros.usgs.gov/earthshots/filchner-ice-shelf-antarctica" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica’s Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf</a> in 1986 and remained stuck close to the continent for decades. 



Ocean currents and seafloor topography restricted its path. After finally regaining momentum last year, the towering block ran into a swirling formation of water near the <a href="https://www.ndsu.edu/subantarctic/southorkney.htm">South Orkney Islands</a>, where it ended up spinning in place for months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-iceberg-movements">Tracking iceberg movements</h2>



“It’s exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck,” said <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/media-post/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-breaks-free/">Dr Andrew Meijers</a>, an oceanographer at the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>.



Ocean experts have been monitoring this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-undergoing-major-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg’s</a> every move to understand how such massive blocks can influence sea circulation, temperature balance, and the distribution of nutrients.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-for-the-a23a-iceberg">New chapter for the A23a iceberg</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birth-of-an-iceberg-a-83-breaks-free-from-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg’s</a> latest departure from its watery prison has stirred up fresh discussions about its fate. 



As it progresses northward, warmer seas may take a toll on its bulk. Many large ice masses follow a similar route before gradually disintegrating. Scientists emphasize that ice already afloat in the water does not raise sea levels when it melts. That does not mean these events should be dismissed, though, since Antarctica’s overall health is a concern in a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-and-its-ocean-impacts-nbsp">A23a iceberg and its ocean impacts&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers have pointed out that although this particular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg</a> calved naturally, Antarctic ice shelves are showing other, more concerning changes.



Experts worry that accelerated ice loss in certain areas could have far-reaching effects. Even small changes along coastal regions of the continent can result in shifts in glacial flow, which might eventually lead to an uptick in sea-level rise. 



Data gathered from icebergs like A23a helps build a clearer picture of these wider trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-antarctic-ice-shelves">Importance of Antarctic ice shelves</h2>



These massive floating ice platforms act as natural barriers, holding back glaciers from flowing too quickly into the ocean, while playing a crucial role in our planet's climate system.



By doing this, they help regulate sea levels and prevent dramatic rises that could flood coastal communities around the world. 



Additionally, ice shelves influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean currents</a> and the global climate by interacting with surrounding water and air, helping to maintain temperature and weather patterns. 



Without these ice shelves, we could see much faster ice loss from the Antarctic, leading to significant changes in our global climate.



Beyond their impact on climate, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-shelves-are-fracturing-from-meltwater-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ice shelves</a> are vital indicators of environmental health. Scientists closely monitor these ice structures to understand the effects of global warming and to predict future changes in ice behavior. 



When ice shelves start to thin or collapse, it signals shifts in climate trends, providing valuable data for researchers working on climate models and sea-level rise projections.



Moreover, the areas beneath and around ice shelves host unique marine ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife, contributing to Earth’s biodiversity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystems-under-the-ice">Ecosystems under the ice</h2>



Observations have shown that drifting ice blocks can stir the waters they pass through, sometimes generating short-lived plankton blooms. 



These blooms support fish, krill, and other marine life in areas that might otherwise lack resources. "These icebergs provide different sources of nutrients," explained Professor <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/profile/gant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geraint Tarling</a>, Biopole's principal investigator. By sampling the water where the giant iceberg has traveled, scientists hope to gauge whether this berg’s size and origin play a notable part in shaping ocean communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-future-holds">What the future holds</h2>



Many anticipate that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a23a-worlds-largest-iceberg-is-moving-after-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A23a</a> will continue meandering through the Southern Ocean currents. As it ventures closer to milder latitudes, the ice is expected to weaken and break into smaller chunks. 



Some fragments may persist for a while, but the main body of the iceberg will likely diminish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a23a-iceberg-research-enhances-ocean-circulation">A23a iceberg research enhances ocean circulation</h2>



Ongoing research on these gargantuan ice blocks helps experts refine climate models, track ocean circulation patterns, and pinpoint areas most vulnerable to environmental changes. 



Observations from ships, satellites, and on-site measurements all combine to offer a clearer view of what is happening far from major population centers. The hope is that findings from the watery trails left by A23a will guide future decisions on how we manage and protect polar waters and fragile marine habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-lab-for-ocean-studies">Moving lab for ocean studies</h2>



A23a’s odyssey is important because it shows how an individual iceberg can become a moving lab for oceanographers and climate scientists. 



The iceberg's escape from a rotating water column this month hints at nature’s complexity, from shifting ocean currents to unseen underwater topography.



While it has been around for nearly four decades, its path in the coming months may reveal more about the chain reactions set in motion when a piece of Antarctica sets sail for open waters.



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World’s largest iceberg breaks free from ocean cyclone and is on the move again

The world’s largest iceberg has astonished scientists by shaking free...

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Northwestern University engineers made a remarkable advance in quantum computing and communication, demonstrating quantum teleportation over a standard fiber optic cable that already carries everyday Internet traffic.



This development shows that quantum communication might not require dedicated lines, which clears the path for easier and more widespread integration of quantum and classical data sharing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-for-quantum-networking">Path for quantum networking</h2>



The news centers around the idea that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parker-solar-probe-will-fly-through-suns-atmosphere-tomorrow-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum signals</a> -- information carried by delicate particles of light known as photons -- can travel alongside everyday Internet traffic without losing their integrity. This breakthrough demonstrates quantum teleportation, a process where the state of a particle (like a photon) is transferred to another distant particle without the initial particle moving physically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-quantum-teleportation">Science behind quantum teleportation</h2>



By using entangled photons, this method enables secure, near-instantaneous data sharing and paves the way for future quantum networks.



The research team successfully tested a setup that allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negative-time-observed-measured-tangible-in-new-quantum-experiments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> information to weave through the bustling flow of regular Internet data without interference. 



This achievement overcomes one of the biggest hurdles in making quantum networks a practical reality.



<a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/research-faculty/directory/profiles/kumar-prem.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prem Kumar</a>, who oversaw the research, is a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Northwestern’s <a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McCormick School of Engineering</a>. 



He is known for his contributions to quantum communication and serves as the director of the Center for Photonic Communication and Computing. In their recent work, Kumar and his collaborators introduce a new way of thinking about quantum signals alongside their classical counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-entanglement-in-quantum-communication">Entanglement in quantum communication</h2>



Quantum teleportation stands out because it uses entanglement as a way to exchange information without physically sending matter across a distance. The concept traces back to <a href="https://journals.aps.org/pr/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev.47.777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Einstein,</a> <a href="https://journals.aps.org/pr/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev.47.777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Podolsky</a>, and Rosen in 1935. Scientists have since <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.70.1895" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tested</a> quantum entanglement in labs, culminating in the formal proposal for quantum teleportation in 1993.



One of the biggest appeals of quantum teleportation is that it can occur almost as fast as light travels. Photons can become entangled so that performing a measurement on one instantaneously affects its partner, no matter how far away it is. “This is incredibly exciting because nobody thought it was possible; our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elusive-quantum-negative-entanglement-entropy-deciphered-in-the-lab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classical networks</a> sharing a unified fiberoptic infrastructure. Basically, it opens the door to pushing quantum communications to the next level,” enthused Kumar.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-delicate-photons">Protecting delicate photons</h2>



Securing a clear route for single photons involves more than just adding them to an active cable. Ordinary Internet traffic typically relies on millions of light particles, so a handful of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> photons can easily get lost or overwhelmed. The <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern</a> team performed detailed studies on how light scatters inside the cable to see if there was a specific wavelength that experiences less clutter. 



They pinpointed that sweet spot and added special filters to reduce the noise generated by normal data traffic.



“Quantum teleportation has the ability to provide quantum connectivity securely between geographically distant nodes,” said Kumar. Past work suggested that large-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/functioning-quantum-internet-makes-giant-stride-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum networks</a> might need specialized systems. Now, his findings reveal that this might not be strictly necessary, if signals are positioned in just the right place in the spectrum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-test-run-in-busy-channels">First test run in busy channels</h2>



Earlier demonstrations of quantum teleportation typically involved pristine settings or dedicated fibers. 



Some <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aan3211">researchers</a> believed that real-world cables, teeming with signals, would smother the faint quantum light. That assumption has been proven wrong.



In tests at Northwestern, the researchers ran quantum signals and classical communications over the same fiber optic cable without them colliding. 



They measured how well the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electrons-can-follow-neat-paths-even-in-chaotic-quantum-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum information</a> arrived at its destination and confirmed that it was still correct at the other end. “Our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and classical networks,” Kumar summarized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-infrastructure">Real-world infrastructure</h2>



The immediate plan is to scale the system to longer runs and then transition to underground fiber connections. 



The group believes that an eventual shift to real-world cables could be next. Building on single-pair teleportation, they also want to experiment with multiple pairs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entangled photons</a> to achieve another crucial step known as entanglement swapping.



If that milestone is reached, quantum networks could begin to take shape across regions rather than only between two points. For critical operations in finance, defense, and data management, such networks could offer more secure connections thanks to the inherent secrecy of quantum methods, where any tampering is immediately noticeable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-applications">Broader applications</h2>



The capacity to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum connections</a> without setting up special cables makes many new ideas more viable. 



Distributed quantum computing, which relies on linking multiple quantum computers in different locations, would be simpler to establish. 



Distance-sensing tasks and advanced metrology could also benefit from more stable quantum links.



Even beyond computing, quantum networks have the potential to spur new technologies in encryption, imaging, and fundamental physics experiments. Researchers have also discussed using quantum entanglement to <a href="https://watermark.silverchair.com/020011_1_online.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAAzAwggMsBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggMdMIIDGQIBADCCAxIGCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMxOCNBnzx99LUOAbXAgEQgIIC41_WikXKemGuhWdzU4OnkQXRNjdQ5jj8bK5la7lzZlWPVXgV6KM-mv4frQgdokiIKWhEiPaL2MBMicf8FXjC7C9DHm7cmfKlXHX0RsBGMmNFXIf3tnlSoygfD_3DsxoPrGUO5slXsAOpR2nNcOJqQMHxOtS2vZo885BZQmEF8j2Tdz7Eih6K3tmVzUTRmYwHJ4KtMk-RjD1JHXfFwUnnQ0B-Qk9VmP_s05zipejBq28CbQySyGw7Mi-SfxNEW7qC-VEEFHy__hVKeExMG4HmltzHbp-k_zPnwktK7eEojGWH17mX6qfBGSE_fSGYQYHh82x6TLx2HdMBx2RVuTZIxpClItEPUEuHXIn4ZM4QBHWUlhzFcnm5moZmsfIxN9II_S8v4fKN3hCeAp8QpjjhQyT3coqB4S80iIXBN3V1wpJMknK0WwKpuekyl7Tpcv1zPchLng2_lN8TuajzF8lyuBSRFWKGg4nKkdwtCV3OnUweAUfYwNrQdUgY769pFqspGxXh7VPhcgDe8hcdc9-EX2Y7uz7jMMmDyc9q7sJ0jW1tM2tUVkXYpOvSVkcuFN5Qa4ud5D8xdQ4UUL1nvGnhvJuTvT1kv2WiRlSy-3_uhi75BUEPppoyIv22JtpjkcAmQYEmLgcSdROYaB7LB5ySLLQ1rRZW7BFQvI5W7Zv0FX64VIvx1sNCubj1HvROm9OR026h8Kt-VuE8YZwoGgUP4DPycn_gwFHMguRZfU_bbMIBnLyufXePFSsPB0Nfv_gpwYN6lNzD3oyZPbo5BumjsspwgrOmvZADcEM6hyqkhAOGBm5gf5QiFtGWxvY9pYT2xSR9LI6C8cxxDNl8VMtRCK2pwJ_e2sg6h3sdILLYVzHuF4DO7SWTW0unBeit2cvJtDSN-PcPRtsTvI5eYgQkwouAfEZ3o4fKme-h8q4Ik1RVGvz3kMW2bnGOvgK0LeIer5Frkr3op85V1mpuWR1-l-Jjq6M">synchronize distant clocks</a> or to share random numbers for cryptography at unprecedented levels of security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-quantum-teleportation">Significance of quantum teleportation </h2>



Quantum teleportation has matured from a fascinating theory to a tool that is becoming more practical. 



While it is never straightforward to integrate delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unbreakable-encryption-brings-quantum-internet-communication-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum signals</a>, the Northwestern group’s accomplishment raises confidence that such integration is within reach.



Many experts have believed that building specialized infrastructure was an unavoidable cost of quantum networking. 



According to Kumar’s report, if wavelengths are picked carefully, classical signals and quantum information can coexist just fine. This line of thinking spares organizations from installing entire new grids of cables.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-work-on-quantum-teleportation">Future work on quantum teleportation</h2>



In upcoming work, the researchers plan to expand the scope of their approach in longer segments to confirm that the method remains stable as cables stretch far past the lab. They will also design a multi-node demonstration to verify it can handle more than a single link. There is much excitement that existing communication channels, once tuned just right, could <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-atoms-qkd-quantum-communication-revolutionizing-data-protection-privacy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carry quantum data</a> to distant points.



With such possibilities on the horizon, quantum teleportation may shift from a theoretical concept to a tool that transforms communication. 



The future might see quantum and classical networks working side by side in ways that once sounded unlikely.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://opg.optica.org/optica/fulltext.cfm?uri=optica-11-12-1700&amp;id=565936" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Optica</a>.



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"Impossible" success: Quantum teleportation on normal internet cables is set to change the world

Northwestern University engineers made a remarkable advance in quantum computing...

Earth sometimes picks up unexpected companions. One recently spotted object, about 33 feet (10 meters) long, caught astronomers’ attention in late summer as it moved close enough to become, for a short time, a temporary guest in our gravitational field.



It was found using the ATLAS survey, a system that scans the skies for approaching space rocks. The object was named 2024 PT5.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-rock-linked-to-the-moon">Space rock linked to the Moon</h2>



From September 29 to November 25, this traveler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">looped around our planet</a> before drifting away. It resembled what some call a mini-moon, but not everyone agrees on the label. According to Paul Chodas, director of NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>), it could have come from a lunar impact long ago.



This possibility elevates the significance of the mysterious object. If it truly broke off the moon, then wandered into space only to show up here as a fleeting visitor, that’s more than a random asteroid drop-in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-captures-mini-moons">Earth captures mini-moons</h2>



Short-term orbital captures happen when Near-Earth Objects, or NEOs, move close enough for Earth’s gravity to temporarily capture them.



NASA describes <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/about/basics.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NEOs</a> as bodies nudged by other planets until they drift into Earth’s neighborhood. This can turn them into passersby that come and go. Although most slip away unnoticed, a few of these objects get spotted.



“Earth can regularly capture asteroids from the near-earth object (NEO) population and pull them into orbit, making them mini-moons,” noted Carlos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evasive-space-objects">Evasive space objects </h2>



As discussed, many objects that buzz around our world do so invisibly. It’s common for them to either miss Earth entirely or crash through the atmosphere, producing bright meteors or even catastrophic impacts like the one linked to the dinosaurs’ demise. But spotting a small object that loops near <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-moon-trifecta-september-2024-harvest-moon-supermoon-and-partial-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a> without hitting it is trickier. Sometimes astronomers confuse such objects with old rocket parts or spacecraft, which has happened before with artificial satellites.



Careful observations confirmed that 2024 PT5 was natural, and not a piece of space junk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mini-moons-and-other-oddballs">Mini-moons and other oddballs</h2>



Temporary satellites come in different varieties. Some perform multiple orbits around Earth, then stick around for a while before drifting off. Others take a quick loop and vanish, never even completing a full circle.



According to prior <a href="http://mpcweb1.cfa.harvard.edu/mpec/K24/K24PH0.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>, some have even been mistaken for asteroids orbiting the sun before their real trajectory was understood. Past cases show how researchers work to classify these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transient neighbors</a>. They rely on data from surveys and institutions like the Center for Astrophysics, where astronomers study asteroid dynamics. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-earth-s-mini-moon">Is it really Earth's mini-moon?</h2>



There’s been much debate over what counts as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-lost-its-mini-moon-2024-pt5-may-have-come-from-our-main-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mini-moon</a>. Some argue that if the object doesn’t complete a full orbit, it’s just a near miss. Others insist even a partial capture is worth noting.



Lance Benner, who leads asteroid radar research at JPL, looks at what an object actually does before classifying it. Whether 2024 PT5 meets strict definitions matters less to those simply intrigued by what its presence can teach us.



If this object truly came from our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvest-moon-2024-will-feature-a-partial-lunar-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, it suggests that large impacts scattered lunar material far and wide. Bits of our celestial neighbor might still be drifting through space, waiting for a chance encounter with Earth. Understanding how material escapes the moon’s gravity and ends up roaming free can help refine models of lunar and Earth evolution. It might even clarify how common these lunar fragments are. Though no one can say for certain yet, this possibility is exciting to astronomers, prompting further observations and better tracking methods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-defense-strategies">Planetary defense strategies </h2>



We live amid a cosmic swirl, where not all objects are potential hazards. Many are tiny fragments just passing through. But scientists pay close attention to any that could come closer than comfort allows. Monitoring these objects supports <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2023-NSTC-National-Preparedness-Strategy-and-Action-Plan-for-Near-Earth-Object-Hazards-and-Planetary-Defense.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary defense strategies</a>, which track objects that might threaten life on Earth. 



While giant asteroids top the priority list, even smaller rocks can cause serious damage if they strike. There are <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/science-research/planetary-science/planetary-defense/near-earth-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">millions</a> of these modest but still threatening bodies lurking out there.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mining-mini-moons">Mining mini-moons </h2>



Some groups talk about mining asteroids for metals and other resources. If an accessible mini-moon passed by one day, it might be easier to reach than other targets.



In theory, a future spacecraft might push a rich fragment into Earth’s orbit and create a mine at our doorstep. This remains a vision for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visitors-from-our-cosmic-neighborhood">Visitors from our cosmic neighborhood </h2>



For now, 2024 PT5 has come and gone. Just because it visited doesn’t guarantee we’ll see more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-supermoon-blue-moon-will-outshine-and-outsize-all-other-moons-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> fragments passing by, but it hints at a bustling environment that may hide many surprises. Astronomers continue cataloging and studying these objects, including tricky, short-term captures known as <a href="https://www.planetary.org/defend-earth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arjuna asteroids</a> that travel near Earth’s orbit. We share this cosmic neighborhood with countless wanderers, and each passing object has a story to tell. 



No one knows what kind of guests Earth might host in the future. Some will barely register on telescopes, others will linger, and a few could turn out to be fragments of places we thought we knew.



More details of the study are available <a href="https://arxiv.org/html/2412.10264v1">here</a>. 



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Surprise arrival: A fragment of the Moon just circled Earth

Earth sometimes picks up unexpected companions. One recently spotted object,...

Community dog parks are often seen as cheerful places where dogs can run free and interact with other pets. Many people feel that these shared spaces help animals stay active, but new <a href="https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-024-06563-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> points to a different story.



Recent <a href="https://parasitesandvectors.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13071-024-06563-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> from the Department of Ecosystem and Public Health at the University of Calgary have revealed that half of the fecal samples collected in select dog parks contained intestinal parasites. These particular parasites have the potential to affect not only canines but also humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parasites-in-dog-parks">Parasites in dog parks</h2>



 The experts found that parasites are often more common in areas where several dogs gather and roam freely. 



Parasites in the dog park samples included protozoa that are known to cause gastrointestinal issues, especially in younger or immune-compromised canines.



These types of parasites are also known to spread from animals to humans through contaminated materials.



Many of them linger in the environment, which increases the risk for anyone handling infected objects or soil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-dog-traffic-areas-and-parasites">High dog traffic areas and parasites </h2>



Dogs that visit more than one park or spend significant time off-leash have a greater chance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistant-superbugs-are-being-passed-from-pets-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">picking up infections</a>. 



Overlapping areas with high dog traffic can make it easier for parasites to spread, especially if waste is not disposed of properly.



These newly identified parasite infection patterns point to an urgent need for consistent hygiene practices and vigilant parasite prevention measures among dog owners. Missing these steps could lead to larger issues in households and communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-dogs-from-parasites">Protecting dogs from parasites</h2>



“Administer year-round broad-spectrum parasite control with efficacy against heartworm, intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks. Control of parasites with zoonotic potential is essential,” noted the <a href="https://capcvet.org/guidelines/general-guidelines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Companion Animal Parasite Council </a>(CAPC). 



Such preventive care can also lower veterinary bills over time. Early treatment helps ensure that dogs remain safe from conditions that might otherwise worsen and spread.



“All dogs should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many dogs, more frequent visits may be appropriate,” stated the <a href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/aaha-avma-canine-preventive-healthcare-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Veterinary Medical Association</a> (AVMA). 



Consistent check-ups can catch issues early before they turn into bigger problems.



Veterinarians can recommend parasite prevention methods suited to each dog’s lifestyle. They can also help pet owners to address any new concerns about health or behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stopping-the-spread-of-infections">Stopping the spread of infections </h2>



Some of the parasites identified by the experts can affect humans through direct or indirect contact - with children and older family members facing the greater risk. 



Hands-on moments with pets may carry hidden dangers if basic precautions are neglected. 



Habits like washing hands and tidying up after dogs are simple actions that can make a big difference by stopping infections from spreading between households or within neighborhoods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-cleanliness-in-play-areas">Maintaining cleanliness in play areas</h2>



Dog parks can still be fun if everyone does their part in disposing of waste and keeping the area clean. It is critical to use designated trash bins and avoid leaving any droppings behind, as parasites thrive in damp conditions.



Regular park maintenance further reduces contamination by preventing harmful organisms from circulating in the soil. A clean environment creates a healthier space for everyone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tips-for-home-routines">Tips for home routines</h2>



An effective deworming schedule can shield pets from exposure to parasites that might be picked up outdoors. Over-the-counter remedies are not always reliable, so <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neutering-linked-to-serious-health-risks-in-some-dog-breeds/">consulting a veterinarian</a> remains the best bet.



Families that allow pets on couches or beds may want to vacuum more frequently. This is especially true for homes with small children who explore surfaces by touch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-awareness-and-responsible-actions">Community awareness and responsible actions</h2>



Dog parks help maintain social bonds among pets and people in the community. Many owners appreciate these places because their pets can socialize and burn off excess energy.



Paying careful attention to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warning-dogs-drinking-from-public-water-sources-is-dangerous/">parasite control</a> does not eliminate the social benefit of these shared spaces. Instead, it helps everyone feel secure while enjoying all the perks of playing outdoors.



Active outreach by local pet groups can remind park visitors to be responsible. Handouts, reminders on social media, and polite signs in dog parks can also help to raise awareness.



Any step that guides owners toward better cleaning habits or timely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-on-vegan-diets-stay-healthier-and-visit-the-vet-less-often/">veterinary checks</a> is a win for public health. Simple changes can reshape how communities share public spaces like dog parks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



Informed decisions about parasite control allow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-cat-people-really-more-crazy-than-dog-lovers/">dog lovers</a> to keep enjoying community parks without constant worry. This means routine vet care, proper hygiene, and thorough cleaning habits.



These measures benefit everyone who values recreational spaces that welcome four-legged friends. 



The new findings about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-killing-liver-fluke-parasite-discovered-us-colorado-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intestinal parasites</a> may sound unsettling, but vigilance can make a clear difference. Renewed awareness often spurs owners to take small but vital steps to protect their cherished companions.



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Dog parks may be fueling parasite outbreaks

Community dog parks are often seen as cheerful places where...

When you digest the fact that humans know less about the seamounts dotting our planet's oceans than about the vast expanse of outer space, it might take a moment to sink in. Only a fraction of these grandiose underwater mountains have even been mapped.



The 14,500 seamounts mapped to date are projected to be a mere fraction (less than 1%) of the actual total. This staggering disparity highlights how much of our oceanic world remains unexplored.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-dormant-volcano-teeming-with-life">A dormant volcano teeming with life</h2>



The story of the Davidson Seamount is just one example. Its name is a misnomer of sorts, as it is an underwater inactive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-underwater-volcanoes-become-explosive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> that is nestled off the Californian coast.



Discovered way back in 1933, this expansive entity covers 25 miles (40 kilometers) and has been dormant for the last 9.8 million years.



Despite the seeming desolation its description might suggest, this "dead" volcanic structure is buzzing with life.



It's home to magnificent coral reefs and extensive deep-sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-garden-thermal-springs-accelerate-octopus-egg-hatching-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopus gardens</a>, and offers a thriving ecosystem for marine animals including whales.



The unique biodiversity of the Davidson Seamount has made it a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-mountain-discovered-is-two-miles-high-and-home-to-flying-spaghetti-monsters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital area</a> for marine research that has focused attention on the ecological importance of these underwater mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mysteries-of-underwater-mountains">The mysteries of underwater mountains </h2>



The Davidson Seamount, however, supports just a tiny fraction of the underwater splendors that remain unexplored.



Take a voyage to the Canadian coast where another ancient, and notably active, volcano was discovered. The site was found to be covered in millions of colossal eggs, laid by the ethereal Pacific white skates. 



For comparison, the previously known nursery of this species (in the Galapagos) had a mere sprinkling of eggs, as noted by a marine biologist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada.



The most recent voyage of discovery was led by experts from the <a href="https://schmidtocean.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schmidt Ocean Institute</a>. The team unearthed a staggering 1.5-mile-high (2.4 kilometer) seamount, accompanied by three others in the southern Pacific.



One of these seamounts, situated along the Nazca ridge off the Chilean coast, offered a vision so astonishing that the explorers were left awe-struck.



They found themselves amidst a multitude of species that had never been seen by human eyes, which led them to draw parallels with a journey "through the cosmos."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-marine-species-revealed">Diverse marine species revealed</h2>



The month-long expedition proved highly fruitful. Unexpected residents of these depths were identified, including ghostly white <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sponge-gardens-found-deep-in-the-arctic-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sponge gardens</a>, flying spaghetti monsters (a type of colonial hydrozoan), Casper octopuses, millennium-old glass sponges and vast forests of bamboo corals.



A fascinating fact about the glass sponges is that they build intricate, cylindrical structures using spiky "spicules" and often house crustaceans until their death.



This unique interaction between different species creates a mutual relationship, where the captivated crustaceans clean the sponges and breed within them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vibrant-marine-life-on-underwater-mountains">Vibrant marine life on underwater mountains </h2>



The expedition revealed a vibrant and unexpected color palette in the depths of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-life-100-new-sea-creatures-found-in-chile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chilean seamount</a>, with numerous species displaying bright red hues.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="C3wgg1waZW-4165386-12187" type="single"]</div>



Strange as it may seem, this coloration acts as a form of invisibility cloak in the depths where red light is absorbed first, leaving the species to appear black in the depths.



Alongside these species were cactus-like sea urchins and marine sponges that towered to human height.



A consortium of scientists from Ocean Census, who led the expedition planning, noted that this region of the southern Pacific exhibited a high level of endemic species - those that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seamounts-in-a-changing-climate">Seamounts in a changing climate</h2>



The significance of seamounts extends beyond hosting unique and vibrant marine life.



According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, seamounts are emerging as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seamounts-underwater-mountains-impact-ocean-circulation-climate-surprising-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vital sanctuaries</a> for marine life amidst the growing threats of climate change and warming oceans.



Their steep surfaces offer the right conditions for cold-water corals, sponges, and other surface-growing creatures.



The currents around these seamounts stimulate an upsurge of nutrients from the ocean floor, triggering phytoplankton growth that supports food chains within the marine world.



Additionally, these nutrient-rich areas act as hotspots for biodiversity, supporting species that are often rare or endemic to these environments.



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'Alien-like' marine life found on underwater mountains includes 100 new species

When you digest the fact that humans know less about...

After nearly 250 years of informal recognition, the bald eagle has officially been designated as the national bird of the United States. On Christmas Eve 2024, President Joe Biden signed into law a bill amending title 36 of the United States Code to declare the bird’s status.



"For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't," said Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the <a href="https://www.nationaleaglecenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Eagle Center</a>. "But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-proclamation-centuries-in-the-making">A proclamation centuries in the making</h2>



In June 1782, the bald eagle was adopted as the Coat of Arms for the United States Great Seal. Despite its symbolic significance, the bird’s status as the national bird was never acknowledged by law until now.&nbsp;



The legislation, introduced on National American Eagle Day (June 20, 2024), was sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and supported by a bipartisan group, including Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symbol-of-freedom-nbsp">A symbol of freedom&nbsp;</h2>



"The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation," Senator Mullin said in a statement. 



"It's only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I was glad to join my colleagues in leading this bipartisan effort and appreciate the House's swift consideration."



Jack Davis called the move “long overdue,” emphasizing the bird’s unique role as a symbol of American values and its indigenous roots in North America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-debate-over-the-bald-eagle">Historical debate over the bald eagle</h2>



Although widely revered today, the bald eagle’s path to national recognition was not without debate. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin famously opposed its selection as a national emblem, disparaging the bird as one of “bad moral character.”



However, for generations, the bald eagle has been celebrated for its attributes of strength, courage, and freedom - qualities deeply associated with the American spirit.&nbsp;



Unlike other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australias-largest-eagle-was-a-massive-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eagles</a>, the bald eagle is found exclusively in North America, making it a uniquely fitting representative of the United States.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovering-from-the-brink-of-extinction">Recovering from the brink of extinction</h2>



The bald eagle’s journey reflects the resilience of the nation it symbolizes. Once on the brink of extinction due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use, the bird was listed as endangered in 1967.&nbsp;



Thanks to conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and the enactment of the National Emblem Act of 1940, bald eagles have made a dramatic comeback.



By 2020, the bald eagle population had reached 316,700 individuals - which quadrupled the estimated number of these birds in 2009.&nbsp;



This recovery demonstrates the power of preservation and the collective commitment to safeguarding America’s wildlife. However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bald-eagles-are-threatened-by-avian-influenza/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">challenges persist</a>.&nbsp;



In recent years, threats like avian influenza (bird flu) have emerged. Since January 2022, at least 136 bald eagles have died from bird flu across 24 states.&nbsp;



Furthermore, habitat loss, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lead-ammunition-is-a-silent-threat-to-bald-eagle-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead poisoning</a> from hunting ammunition, and environmental contamination continue to pose risks.



Sustained efforts are needed to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of the bald eagle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bald-eagle-a-national-icon">The bald eagle: A national icon</h2>



The legislation is particularly meaningful for the state of Minnesota, which is home to one of the largest bald eagle populations in the country.&nbsp;



“The bald eagle is a symbol of our country’s freedom and strength. In Minnesota, we are proud to call ourselves home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the country as well as the National Eagle Center in Wabasha,” said Senator Klobuchar.&nbsp;



Preston Cook is co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center and author of the book American Eagle - A Visual History of Our National Emblem.&nbsp;



"This is an exciting day. The Bald Eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782," said Cook. "With this legislation, we honor its historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-symbols-of-the-united-states">National symbols of the United States </h2>



In the past, the United States designated other symbols to represent its natural heritage and cultural identity. Among these, the rose holds the title of the national flower, chosen for its widespread beauty, significance in American culture, and long history as a symbol of love and resilience.&nbsp;



The oak, revered for its strength and longevity, was declared the national <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-oak-trees-isoprene-emissions-air-pollution-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> in 2004 to represent the enduring spirit of the nation.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plains-bison-are-in-danger-from-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bison</a>, an iconic species of the American plains, was named the national mammal in 2016 to honor its historical and ecological importance, as well as its recovery from near extinction.&nbsp;



The formal designation of the bald eagle as the national bird marks a new chapter in its history - one that reflects the values and aspirations of the United States.&nbsp;



As this majestic bird continues to thrive, its legacy as a symbol of freedom and resilience is now protected by law for future generations.



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It's official: The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States 

After nearly 250 years of informal recognition, the bald eagle...

Reincarnation is often viewed as a mystical concept, but could it have a scientific basis? 



The universe operates on energy. Everything - from galaxies spiraling in space to thoughts forged in the human mind - involves energy.



Science tells us that energy can be neither created nor destroyed; it simply transfers from one form to another. Applying this principle to consciousness yields staggering possibilities.



Could our consciousness, as energy, be truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-in-reverse-comb-jellies-can-transform-from-adult-to-juvenile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immortal</a>, merely transitioning from one existence to another? 



A controversial U.S. Army study, declassified in 2003, explores this captivating theory of reincarnation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-consciousness-and-reincarnation">Unlocking consciousness and reincarnation</h2>



In the early 1980s, Lieutenant Colonel Wayne M. McDonnell undertook a 29-page analysis named "The Gateway Process."



The goal was to unravel what Army personnel were encountering at a small institute in Charlottesville, Virginia.



This establishment was developing the "Gateway Experience," a unique training system designed to enhance personal strength, focus, and coherence in a way that would change the fabric of consciousness.



The Gateway's aim was to take <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/panpsychism-what-if-all-things-humans-plants-atoms-have-universal-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consciousness</a> beyond the physical constraints, even transcending the limitations of time and space. It seems that the purpose was to alter the mind in order to create a kind of psychic spycraft.



The analysis details some well-known techniques, such as hypnosis and transcendental meditation, but also ventures into some less well known methods of investigating consciousness.



But how does this relate to reincarnation?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cases-of-reincarnation">Cases of reincarnation </h2>



Researchers at the Monroe Institute, the center of these mind-stretching exercises, made discoveries that seemed to bolster the case for reincarnation.



"When consciousness returns to the Absolute (Monroe jargon for a realm outside spacetime), it brings with it all the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> it has accumulated through experience in reality," McDonnell explained. 



In other words, memories pass from life to life, thereby supporting the idea of reincarnation.



Renewed interest in this study was sparked by Chicago-based comedian Sara Holcomb.



Holcomb summarized the intriguing findings in a social media post: "We're pretty sure reincarnation is real. Consciousness is energy and it exists outside of our understanding of reality. And energy … never dies."



Notably, the <a href="https://med.virginia.edu/perceptual-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Virginia Medical School's Division of Perceptual Studies</a> provided further evidence of over 2,500 professed cases of reincarnation. Remarkably, these cases involved children under five years old who claimed to remember living a previous life.



"Why the kids? It seems they're the ones that most easily remember their past lives," noted Holcomb.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-purpose-of-the-gateway-study">The dual purpose of the Gateway study</h2>



However, the study was not limited to spiritual discourse on reincarnation and consciousness. It had a second, more strategic purpose.



At the time, Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) was investigating the potential use of paranormal abilities for military intelligence – a field known as psychic spycraft.



Under the leadership of Major General Albert Stubblebine III – a staunch advocate of psychic warfare – was Joe McMoneagle, identified as Remote Viewer No.1. 



McMoneagle's role was to use remote viewing to spy on Russian military bases and gather clandestine intelligence.



His efforts - despite a success rate of around 28 percent - proved crucial for dealing with “the hopeless cases” and in painting an overall intelligence picture.



McMoneagle, now retired, serves on the Board of Advisors and as a trainer for the Monroe Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-psychic-spying-strategy">The psychic spying strategy </h2>



The "Gateway Experience" also became a subject of scrutiny for the U.S. Army INSCOM, as part of their exploration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-near-death-experiences-validated-by-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"out of body" experiences</a> for espionage.



"There is a sound and rational basis in terms of physical science parameters for considering Gateway to be plausible in terms of its essential objectives. Intuitional insights of not only personal but of a practical and professional nature would seem to be within the bounds of reasonable expectations," concluded McDonnell.



He endorsed the "psychic spying" strategy as a practical approach, but he also cautioned about the difficulties in controlling or directing these experiences consistently.



However, the study concluded that more research was necessary for the U.S. intelligence to be able to utilize this process.



McDonnell provided <a href="https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/cia-rdp96-00788r001700210016-5.pdf">recommendations</a> for potential Gateway studies, though it's uncertain whether any more research was eventually conducted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-continues">The journey continues </h2>



Interestingly, one section of McDonnell's report – the 25th page – is missing. This has piqued the curiosity of readers who have even started a Change.org petition for the CIA to release it. 



The CIA claims never to have had this page, further fueling theories of purposeful omission due to the possible powerful techniques described in the missing document.



The Gateway study opens up a thrilling discussion, not just on the realms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/third-state-of-existence-beyond-life-and-death-confirmed-by-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life after life</a>, but on the applications of such phenomena in areas as demanding as military intelligence. 



As our understanding and exploration of reality continue to evolve, we might one day unravel these profound mysteries. Until then, the journey continues.



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U.S. Army Intelligence study suggests that reincarnation is real

Reincarnation is often viewed as a mystical concept, but could...

If you've ever crossed paths with ants scurrying across your kitchen counter, you know they aren't solitary creatures. Just like us humans, ant groups enjoy a robust social life.



Perhaps that's not news to you, but did you know that both ants and humans share a unique trait? We're the only species that collaborate to transport bulky items that are enormously bigger than ourselves.



This rare trait forms the basis of a fascinating study led by Professor Ofer Feinerman and his team at the Weizmann Institute of Science. 



The researchers pitted ants against humans in maneuvering a large object through a maze, and it led to surprising insights about decision-making and the dynamics of teamwork.



Published in the&nbsp;Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study explores the advantages and limitations of cooperation in two vastly different species. 



The results highlight the strengths of collective ant behavior and the challenges humans face in group settings, particularly when communication is restricted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piano-movers-puzzle-for-ants-and-humans">"Piano movers puzzle" for ants and humans</h2>



To compare the cooperation within these species, the researchers adapted the "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moving-sofa-problem-mathematician-solves-a-century-old-puzzle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">piano movers puzzle</a>."



This computational problem, common in robotics, involves moving a bulky object through a complex space. Instead of a piano, participants maneuvered a T-shaped object through a maze with three chambers that were connected by narrow slits.



Ants and humans tackled mazes scaled to their respective sizes. For humans, recruitment was straightforward - they volunteered for the fun of competition.



Ants, however, were lured by the false promise of food. The selected ants,&nbsp;Paratrechina longicornis&nbsp;or "crazy ants," are common in Israel and known for their agility and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-use-chemical-trails-to-guide-their-friends-to-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social behavior</a>.



Participants were divided into three categories: individuals, small groups (six to nine humans or seven ants), and large groups (26 humans or 80 ants). 



For a fair comparison, human groups were sometimes prohibited from speaking or gesturing. They even wore surgical masks and sunglasses to mimic the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a>’ non-verbal communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-excel-alone-ants-shine-in-groups">Humans excel alone, ants shine in groups</h2>



The study revealed striking differences between humans and ants in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-now-using-cars-to-travel-spread-to-new-locations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">problem-solving approaches</a>. When working individually, humans significantly outperformed ants, thanks to their cognitive abilities and strategic planning.



In group tasks, however, ants outcompeted humans, especially in larger groups. Ant colonies demonstrated remarkable coordination and collective memory. They consistently pursued effective strategies and avoided repeated errors.



“An ant colony is actually a family. All the ants in the nest are sisters, and they have common interests,” explained Feinerman.



Humans, on the other hand, struggled to translate individual strengths into group success. Without communication, their performance often declined. They tended to choose “greedy” solutions - quick fixes that weren’t sustainable.



According to the researchers, these choices reflected the “lowest common denominator” approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lowest-common-denominator">Lowest common denominator </h2>



The "lowest common denominator" approach means that the decisions made by the group tended to simplify or reduce complex problems to the easiest or most basic solution. 



This often happens when groups prioritize solutions that everyone can agree on - even if those solutions are less effective or strategic.



In the context of this study, it implies that human groups chose strategies that required the least effort or consensus, sacrificing long-term benefits for short-term simplicity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-ant-groups">Lessons from ant groups</h2>



The study from the <a href="https://www.weizmann.ac.il/pages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weizmann Institute of Science</a> highlights the unique social dynamics of ant colonies.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-queens-turn-to-cannibalism-recycle-bodies-for-colony-disease-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ants</a> function as a super-organism, with individuals acting like cells in a larger body. Their cooperation is seamless, driven by shared goals rather than competition. 



“Our findings validate this vision. We've shown that ants acting as a group are smarter, that for them the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” said Feinerman.



In contrast, the famous human "wisdom of the crowd" didn’t emerge in this experiment. Communication barriers and individual tendencies hindered group efficiency. This highlights the complexities of human cooperation, even in controlled settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-science-and-collaboration">Bridging science and collaboration</h2>



The study exemplifies how collaboration across disciplines can yield remarkable insights. 



Contributors included Dr. Ehud Fonio, Professor Nir Gov, and Dr. Amir Haluts, along with Professor Amos Korman from the <a href="https://www.haifa.ac.il/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Haifa</a>.



Despite the challenges of human teamwork, the researchers successfully merged expertise in physics, biology, and computational modeling.



This unique experiment offers valuable lessons about group dynamics and decision-making. While humans and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-shifting-to-new-habitats-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> excel in different ways, this comparison sheds light on the potential - and pitfalls - of working together.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2414274121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Ants work in groups more successfully than humans

If you've ever crossed paths with ants scurrying across your...

Heavy rain has always been part of Earth's water cycle, but lately something is different. Cities are flooding more often, storm drains are overwhelmed, and weather records keep getting broken. 



Now, scientists have solved a puzzling mystery about extreme rainfall that's been bugging researchers for years.



Led by Dr. Sarosh Alam Ghausi at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany, researchers have determined why some data seemed to contradict what we know about rainfall in a warming world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-rainfall-extreme">What makes rainfall "extreme"?</h2>



Extreme rainfall refers to an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unusually high amount of rain</a> over a short period, often surpassing local thresholds set by meteorologists. 



To put this in perspective, scientists consider "extreme rainfall" to be the heaviest 5% of rain events in any given area. 



Its definition varies by region due to differences in climate and historical weather patterns. For example, what is considered extreme in arid regions may be normal in tropical areas. 



Extreme rainfall can result from slow-moving weather systems, tropical cyclones, or atmospheric rivers - long, narrow bands of moisture in the atmosphere. 



These events can disrupt ecosystems, overwhelm urban drainage, and cause significant damage to agriculture and infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cloud-confusion">The cloud confusion</h2>



For a long time, scientists noticed something odd in their data. While we know that warmer air holds more moisture and should lead to heavier rain, the numbers weren't adding up in tropical and mid-latitude regions.



When daily temperatures went above 23-25°C (73-77°F), extreme rainfall actually seemed to decrease.



This didn't make sense. The science is clear: warmer air can hold more water vapor, so why weren't we seeing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more intense rainfall</a> in these warmer conditions?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-missing-piece-of-the-puzzle">The missing piece of the puzzle</h2>



Interestingly, clouds were found to interfere with temperature measurements during rainfall. When it rains, clouds block sunlight from reaching the Earth’s surface, causing a cooling effect. 



This cooling was distorting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature data</a>, particularly in tropical regions where clouds reflect a significant amount of sunlight back into space. 



This made it appear as though extreme rainfall was less linked to warming than it actually is. By accounting for this cooling effect, scientists uncovered the true relationship between rising temperatures and increasing extreme rainfall rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-track-extreme-rainfall">New approach to track extreme rainfall</h2>



The research team found a clever way around this problem. Using satellite data that measures radiation, they developed a method to remove the cooling effect of clouds from their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/september-2024-was-the-second-hottest-month-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature measurements</a>.



When they looked at the corrected data, everything fell into place. The relationship between temperature and extreme rainfall matched what science predicts and what climate models have been showing us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-the-future">What this means for the future</h2>



"This confirms what is widely expected: Extreme rainfall intensifies in a globally warmer climate," said Dr. Ghausi. His team found that the heaviest increases in extreme rainfall are happening in tropical humid areas like India, Northern Australia, and the Amazon.



The implications are serious. Without proper preparation, these more intense rainfall events could lead to increased flooding. 



"These results support the physical expectations that the whole hydrological cycle becomes more intense and extreme with warmer temperatures," said Dr. Axel Kleidon, senior author of the study from <a href="https://www.bgc-jena.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry</a>.



"We will not only see more extreme rainfall rates, but also more intense and longer dry spells in the future." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-climate-science">Complexity of climate science</h2>



This research gives us a clearer picture of what's happening with extreme rainfall and why. It confirms what many communities are already experiencing: rain patterns are changing, and they're changing fast.



The study also highlights the complexity of climate science. Sometimes what looks like a contradiction in the data is actually telling us something important about how our atmosphere works. 



By figuring out the role clouds play in temperature measurements, scientists have given us a better understanding of what to expect as our planet continues to warm.



For cities and communities around the world, this knowledge is crucial. It can help planners design better drainage systems, improve flood defenses, and prepare for the more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a> that lies ahead.



This isn't just about numbers and measurements. It's about helping communities prepare for a future where the phrase "when it rains, it pours" takes on a whole new meaning.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55143-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Forecasting the floods: New clues about extreme rainfall

Heavy rain has always been part of Earth's water cycle,...

Anauralia, a condition characterized by a "silent mind," challenges the way we understand inner experiences.



Ever felt a chill down your spine when a dog barks or had a catchy tune endlessly playing in your mind? Now imagine a world where such auditory imagination doesn’t exist.



For individuals with anauralia, this silent inner world is their reality - a mind devoid of inner voices or imagined sounds.



This fascinating condition was labeled "anauralia" in 2021 by researchers at the Waipapa Taumata Rau, <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/study/international-students.html?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiApY-7BhBjEiwAQMrrEZwa5iBk0LrUGX4_NfS3Univ3Y78659XeqNippJupxVNlwXf7TCQNhoCewkQAvD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Auckland</a>.



As the world becomes more aware of anauralia, the University of Auckland has taken the lead in organizing a global conference, "Mind’s Ear and Inner Voice." The goal is to investigate the enigma of sounds imagined in the mind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-art-and-the-silent-mind">Science, art, and the silent mind</h2>



The conference, which will take place in April 2025, will bring together scientists, philosophers, musicians, poets, and writers. These diverse professionals will offer distinct perspectives, providing a holistic view of how the mind creates imaginary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-that-sense-the-world-through-sound-are-more-human-like/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sounds</a>.



"Scientists are fascinated by how the brain makes – or doesn’t make – imaginary sounds such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anendophasia-absence-inner-voice-difficulty-forming-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner voice</a>. But for writers, musicians, and poets, it can be a key part of the creative process, so they have insights to share, too,” said Professor Tony Lambert from Auckland's School of Psychology.



Notable authors like Charles Dickens and Alice Walker claimed to hear their characters' voices, while some readers create distinctive voices for characters in their minds.



For individuals like University of Auckland student Sang Hyun Kim, who has a silent mind, the concept of others hearing imaginary voices seems “freaky.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-spectrum-of-auditory-imagery">The spectrum of auditory imagery</h2>



The brain's ability to create auditory imagery ranges from people who can reproduce intricate symphonies in their minds to those who have weaker or no auditory imagery.



The "silent mind" can be a perplexing condition, especially when a musician is involved. How can one perform without the ability to summon sounds in one's mind?



"I don’t understand this either," said Professor Lambert. He noted that such musicians might have non-sensory representations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>, akin to the difference between hearing music and seeing it represented as a score.



The research indicates that around one percent of New Zealand's population experiences anauralia, which is often accompanied by a lack of visual imagination - a condition termed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-the-minds-eye-is-blind-what-causes-aphantasia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aphantasia</a>.



Interestingly, recent studies suggest that a silent mind may have an upside: improved attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneering-research-in-auditory-imagery">Pioneering research in auditory imagery</h2>



"As compared to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aphantasia-research-results-people-who-cant-visualize-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual imagery</a>, auditory imagery has attracted far less research attention," said Professor Lambert.



By focusing on this unexplored area through an interdisciplinary approach, the conference promises to offer unique insights.



Professor Lambert became interested in this topic after meeting Adam Zeman, who coined the term "aphantasia." 



There are still many unanswered questions about anauralia. Are there people who don't imagine voices, music, or other sounds? How common is this? What are the psychological implications of experiencing a silent inner world?



“We now have good answers to the first two questions. The last question is a much larger one, but I believe we have made strong progress,” said Professor Lambert.



With the University's Anauralia Lab and a grant from the Marsden Fund, the ongoing research includes a neuroimaging study encompassing high-density EEG, functional magnetic resonance imaging, and electromyography of activity in muscles used for speech.



Featuring keynote speakers from around the globe, the <a href="https://www.anauralia.com/conference">conference</a> will shed light on auditory verbal hallucinations and cognitive literary studies, contributing significantly to understanding the silent realm of the human mind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anauralia-s-impact-on-daily-life">Anauralia's impact on daily life</h2>



The silent mind of an individual with anauralia presents unique challenges and opportunities, particularly in creative and professional fields.



While some might wonder how musicians or writers without auditory imagination navigate their work, researchers suggest that alternative cognitive strategies may play a key role. 



For example, these individuals might rely more heavily on logical patterns, visual cues, or tactile feedback to achieve their goals.



Interestingly, the absence of inner sounds doesn’t necessarily hinder creativity. Some artists and musicians with anauralia report that their silent minds allow them to approach projects without the distractions of unwanted mental noise, enabling sharper focus and unconventional methods of expression.



Similarly, in daily life, individuals with anauralia may find it easier to maintain attention and remain present because they are free from the mental echoes of conversations or repetitive tunes.



As research continues to uncover more about this condition, it challenges traditional notions of imagination and creativity, offering valuable insights into the diversity of human cognition and its adaptability.



Information about the 2025 Anauralia Conference can be found <a href="https://www.anauralia.com/conference">here</a>.



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Silent mind: When the inner voice fades

Anauralia, a condition characterized by a "silent mind," challenges the...

Our brains process countless visual signals every second, but some triggers spark instant recognition. New research shows that when it comes to spotting snakes, it's their scales that set off ancient alarm bells in primate brains - including our own.



Dr. Nobuyuki Kawai, a researcher at Nagoya University in Japan, has discovered that monkeys respond to snake scales as a key visual warning sign, suggesting this trait is deeply embedded in primate evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fear-of-snakes-in-primates">Fear of snakes in primates</h2>



Snakes have posed a serious danger to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-do-fear-and-anxiety-reside-in-the-brain-new-cells-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> since the earliest stages of our evolution. 



For our ancestors, the ability to quickly detect and react to snakes was crucial for survival, as many species of snakes are venomous and can be deadly. What makes this fear particularly fascinating is that it is not learned through experience. 



Both monkeys and human babies, even those who have never encountered a snake in real life, still show strong reactions to images of snakes. 



This suggests that the fear of snakes is an innate survival mechanism, hardwired into the brain through millions of years of evolutionary pressure. This instinct ensures that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>, including humans, remain vigilant and can avoid potentially life-threatening encounters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkeys-reacting-to-snake-images">Monkeys reacting to snake images</h2>



To uncover the specific triggers in primates behind this instinctive fear of snakes, Dr. Nobuyuki Kawai's team from <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> designed a straightforward test. 



The researchers presented monkeys with two sets of images: one showing snakes and the other depicting salamanders.



Although both creatures share similar elongated, slithering bodies, the monkeys reacted immediately to the snake images but showed no such response to the salamanders. This highlighted that the reaction wasn’t simply about the body shape.



This observation raised an intriguing question: what if a harmless salamander were altered to display the distinctive scales of a snake? Would the monkeys recognize it as non-threatening, or would the scaly appearance alone activate their fear response? 



Kawai’s curiosity set the stage for a deeper investigation into the visual cues that spark this innate fear of snakes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-are-more-interested-in-the-emotions-of-strangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triggered-by-snake-skin">Triggered by snake skin</h2>



Kawai designed a clever experiment to find out. He set up a game where monkeys had to spot the odd image out among nine pictures to get a reward. 



When he placed a single snake image among salamander pictures, the monkeys found it super quickly. But here's where it gets interesting - when he showed them doctored images of salamanders wearing snake skin, they spotted these just as fast, sometimes even faster than real snake images.



"Previously we demonstrated that humans and primates can recognize snakes quickly; however, the critical visual feature was unknown," Kawai said. 



"The monkeys did not react faster to salamanders, a species that shares a similar elongated body and tail with snakes, until the images were changed to cover them with snake skin."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primates-snake-detection-abilities">Primates' snake detection abilities</h2>



The discovery points to something remarkable about primate evolution.



"This may be because during evolution our primate ancestors evolved a visual system to identify scales, which are characteristic of snakes," Kawai explained. 



"These insights into primate evolution will likely improve our understanding of vision and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-changes-how-we-recall-memories-making-them-seem-frightening/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain evolution</a> in animals, including ourselves."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primate-brains-evolved-to-spot-danger">Primate brains evolved to spot danger</h2>



The study, published in Scientific Reports, extends beyond simply explaining why primates are quick to spot snakes.



It shows how our visual processing system developed specific tricks to keep us safe. Our brains didn't just evolve to see better - they evolved to see danger better.



This research opens up new questions about other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visually-striking-primate-features-ease-tension-and-reduce-conflict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual cues</a> that might be hardwired into our brains. What other ancient warning signs might we be unconsciously processing? How else has evolution shaped the way we see the world?



The next time you jump at the sight of something snake-like, remember - you're reacting like all primates have for generations. This instinct is the result of millions of years of evolution, designed to shield you from one of nature’s oldest threats. And it all comes down to those scales.



The full study is recently published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-78595-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Primate brains have evolved to rapidly detect snakes

Our brains process countless visual signals every second, but some...