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Falco peregrinus peregrinus

The Winter Solstice, often referred to as “the shortest day of the year,” is an astronomical event that marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.



In this region of the world, the solstice also marks the turning point when days gradually grow longer.



While the solstice represents the start of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-winters-are-getting-colder-while-world-is-getting-warmer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winter</a>, the coldest temperatures often occur weeks later due to the “seasonal lag,” as the Earth continues losing heat.



Beyond its scientific significance, the winter solstice has profound cultural, spiritual, and historical importance across the globe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-winter-solstice">What is the Winter Solstice?</h2>



The winter solstice occurs when one of Earth’s poles is tilted farthest away from the Sun, resulting in the least amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-we-actually-benefit-from-daylight-saving-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">daylight</a>. This happens because Earth's axis is tilted at approximately 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun.&nbsp;



“Earth’s axis may be imagined as an imaginary pole going right through the center of our planet from ‘top’ to ‘bottom.’ Earth spins around this pole, making one complete turn each day. That is why we have day and night,” explained <a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/Watch_the_Skies/tag/solstice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice typically occurs between December 20 and 23, with December 21 being the most common date.



On this day, the Sun appears to travel its shortest path across the sky. For those at the Arctic Circle, the Sun may not rise at all, creating 24 hours of darkness. Conversely, the Antarctic Circle experiences 24 hours of daylight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-winter-solstice">Cultural significance of the Winter Solstice </h2>



The Winter Solstice has been celebrated across cultures for thousands of years. Early humans observed the solstice as a critical marker of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peoples-moral-values-literally-change-with-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seasonal change</a>, signifying the gradual return of longer daylight hours and the promise of spring.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stonehenge">Stonehenge</h3>



This ancient monument in England aligns with the solstices, suggesting its builders may have used it as a calendar to track astronomical events.



Constructed in several phases between roughly 3000 BCE and 2000 BCE, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stonehenges-famous-altar-stone-has-surprising-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stonehenge</a> remains a mystery regarding its exact purpose. It may have served as a burial ground or a ceremonial site.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yule-in-norse-tradition">Yule in Norse tradition</h3>



The Norse people celebrated Yule, lighting fires to symbolize the Sun's rebirth and feasting to mark the turning of the season.



Yule coincided with the darkest days of the year. The festival celebrated the return of the Sun and the lengthening of days, symbolizing hope and renewal.



Yule was dedicated to the gods, particularly Odin, who was associated with wisdom, magic, and the Wild Hunt - a ghostly procession believed to occur during this time. Offerings, feasts, and sacrifices were made to gain their favor.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saturnalia-in-ancient-rome-nbsp">Saturnalia in ancient Rome&nbsp;</h3>



Saturnalia was one of the most popular festivals in ancient Rome, held in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture, wealth, and time.&nbsp;



Celebrated annually in mid-December, the festival originally lasted for a single day (December 17) but eventually expanded to a week. The celebration involved feasting, gift-giving, and a temporary social reversal where traditional roles were upended.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dongzhi-in-east-asia">Dongzhi in East Asia </h3>



Dongzhi (冬至), meaning "Winter Solstice" in Chinese, is an important festival in East Asia.&nbsp;



Rooted in the philosophy of Yin and Yang, Dongzhi symbolizes the balance and transformation of natural energies as the days begin to lengthen, bringing more light and warmth.



Modern celebrations like Christmas and Hanukkah incorporate elements of these ancient traditions, emphasizing light and hope during the darkest days of the year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-universal-reminder">A universal reminder</h2>



The Winter Solstice is more than just an astronomical event; it serves as a reminder of nature’s rhythms and humanity’s enduring connection to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anthropic-principle-we-live-in-a-universe-fine-tuned-to-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>. It symbolizes resilience, as the darkest day paves the way for the return of light.&nbsp;



Across millennia, it has inspired wonder, reflection, and celebration - a testament to the timeless bond between Earth, its inhabitants, and the heavens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-spiritual-turning-point">A spiritual turning point</h2>



The solstice encourages people to look inward, reflect on the past year, and set intentions for the year ahead, aligning with the natural pause of winter.



This occasion represents the balance and cycles of life, urging us to embrace both light and shadow in our personal journeys.



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Winter Solstice: The shortest day of the year has arrived

The Winter Solstice, often referred to as “the shortest day...

In the depths of planet Earth, a hidden microbial world thrives under extreme conditions that are beyond the reach of our regular perception.



This extraordinary and invisible ecosystem harbors an abundance of life forms that flourish in environments such as gold mines, aquifers, and deep boreholes in the seafloor.



But how do these below-the-surface microbiomes compare to the vibrant ecosystems bathed in Earth's sunlight?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-microbial-deep-dwellers">Discovering the microbial deep dwellers</h2>



Researchers have now investigated this question in a first-of-its-kind comprehensive endeavor undertaken at the <a href="https://www.mbl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Laboratory</a> (MBL).



What they found was incredibly rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a> in certain subsurface habitats, which extended up to 491 meters (1,610 feet) below the seafloor and 4,375 meters (14,300 feet) below ground level in terrestrial habitats.



This unprecedented revelation hints at vast, unexplored, subsurface sources of diversity, and presents possible opportunities for finding new compounds and medicines.



The study holds potential for identifying how cells adapt to extremely energy-scarce environments. The findings may also be useful in the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expanding-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-diversity-below-the-surface">Microbial diversity below the surface</h2>



The study's lead scientist, MBL associate scientist Emil Ruff, addressed some of the common assumptions about life below the Earth's surface.



“It’s commonly assumed that the deeper you go below the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-of-how-diamonds-reach-the-earths-surface-finally-solved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s surface</a>, the less energy is available, and the lower is the number of cells that can survive,” noted Ruff. 



“Whereas the more energy present, the more diversity can be generated and maintained - as in tropical forests or coral reefs, where there’s lots of sun and warmth."



However, the study’s findings tell a different story. In some subsurface habitats, microbial diversity can easily match or surpass the diversity on the surface.



This was found to be especially true for marine environments and for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-microbes-discovered-in-2-billion-year-old-rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> in the Archaea domain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tale-of-two-realms">A tale of two realms</h2>



The study, which took almost a decade to complete, was also one of the first to compare marine and terrestrial environments in terms of microbial diversity and community composition.



While the experts found that the marine and terrestrial microbiomes differed greatly in composition, their level of diversity was similar. This finding gives rise to a fundamental ecological principle.



“There’s a very clear divide between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-life-forms-from-800-million-years-ago-redefine-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life forms</a> in the marine and in the terrestrial realms, not just in the surface, but also in the subsurface. The selective pressures are very different on land and in the sea, and they select for different organisms that have a hard time living in both realms," explained Ruff.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-in-low-energy-environments">Microbes in low-energy environments</h2>



The existence of a vast reservoir of microbes kilometers deep - both under our feet and beneath the seafloor - was first broadly recognized by scientists in the mid-1990s.



Now, scientists estimate that between 50 and 80 percent of Earth’s microbial cells live in the subsurface sediments, where energy availability is significantly lower than on the sunlit surface.



The study suggests that potentially half of Earth's microbial diversity can be found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-great-harm-earth-subsurface-deep-interior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subsurface zones</a>.



In addition, the findings point towards a fascinating phenomenon: in these low-energy environments, life appears to be slowed down to an absolute minimum. Some subsurface cells are estimated to divide only once every 1,000 years. 



These microbes live on completely different timescales and could provide intriguing insights about aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-finding-extraterrestrial-life">Implications for finding extraterrestrial life</h2>



If planets like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-water-found-on-mars-would-cover-the-planet-over-one-mile-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars had liquid water</a> at some point in their history, the rocky ecosystems below their surface could resemble those currently on Earth.



“The energy would be very low; the organisms’ generation times would be very long. Understanding deep life on Earth could be a model for discovering if there was life on Mars, and if it has survived,” said Ruff.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbiomes-of-diverse-locations-on-earth">Microbiomes of diverse locations on Earth</h2>



Past studies of microbial life on Earth’s surface and subsurface aren't scarce, but synthesizing the data was challenging due to inconsistencies in methodology across different research groups.



However, in 2016, a breakthrough method allowed for a consistent dataset to compare more than 1,000 samples from 50 marine and terrestrial ecosystems.



Samples from around the world were sent to MBL, where scientists used identical routines to sequence and analyze the microbial DNA present. 



This consistent methodology allowed for the first direct comparison of microbiomes from vast and diverse locations.



Ultimately, the research serves as a foundation for exposing the rich tapestry of life forms that inhabit the invisible worlds below the Earth’s crust.



As we continue to explore these subsurface habitats, we stand to learn much about the adaptability and resilience of life in its myriad forms.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq0645" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Half of Earth's microbial life may be hiding beneath the surface

In the depths of planet Earth, a hidden microbial world...

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical role as some of the Earth's most prolific pollinators. A new study led by Penn State scientists suggests that flies are increasingly at risk due to rising global temperatures.



An international team of researchers examined the heat tolerance of various bee and fly species in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.&nbsp;



The results indicate that flies are more vulnerable to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming climates</a> than bees, since bees can handle significantly higher temperatures and occupy a broader range of habitats.



“Bees and flies are essential for pollinating plants, both in the wild and in agriculture,” said Margarita López-Uribe, an expert in pollinator health at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> and lead author on the study. “However, these vital insects are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, disease and the growing threat of climate change.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-are-underappreciated-yet-vital-pollinators">Flies are underappreciated yet vital pollinators</h2>



Flies, second only to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-do-not-learn-to-be-cooperative-it-is-in-their-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a> in terms of the volume of crops and habitats they pollinate, play a crucial role in sustaining wild ecosystems.&nbsp;



By facilitating the reproduction of numerous plant species, flies help maintain biodiversity and provide resources for countless other organisms. They also increasingly contribute to agriculture - for example, flies serve as the primary pollinators of cocoa trees, the source of chocolate.



A 2020 analysis of global crops found that the 105 most widely planted crops benefiting from pollinators represent more than $800 billion in gross economic value. Among these pollinators, flies, specifically hoverflies and blowflies, consistently ranked just behind bees.



“It's time we gave flies some more recognition of their role as pollinators,” López-Uribe said. “Flies have a significant role, but they don't get as much attention - and they are vulnerable in all the same ways that bees are.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-bees-and-climate-change">Flies, bees, and climate change </h2>



Because insects cannot easily control their body temperatures, rising global temperatures present a serious challenge. 



To assess how different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a> might cope, the research team measured the “critical thermal maximum” (CTMax) - the highest temperature at which insects can still move - of both bees and flies.



They found that bees can tolerate substantially warmer conditions than flies. On average, bees had a CTMax 2.3 degrees Celsius higher than that of flies.&nbsp;



Additionally, bees foraging in cooler morning hours proved more heat-tolerant than those active in warmer afternoons.&nbsp;



Geographic factors also mattered - pollinators living at high-elevation tropical sites showed lower CTMax values than their counterparts in subtropical areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-collection-across-the-americas">Data collection across the Americas</h2>



The study’s data collection occurred during COVID-19 lockdowns, so international students from Penn State and other universities conducted research in their home countries.&nbsp;



Instead of traveling, students worked with equipment sent to them, gathering measurements in their own kitchens and backyards.



“We sent out all of the equipment to do the study to students throughout the U.S. and South America,” López-Uribe said. “These students were collecting the data in their houses, using their kitchens to understand the thermal ecology these insects could withstand.”



“We effectively were able to provide an international research experience without being able to travel internationally.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flies-battling-climate-change">Flies battling climate change </h2>



The findings suggest that insects from cooler, high-altitude environments, such as Cajicá in Colombia, are particularly susceptible to even slight temperature increases.&nbsp;



Since flies are often the primary pollinators in alpine and subarctic regions, their reduced ability to withstand warming could jeopardize entire ecosystems.



“In alpine and subarctic environments, flies are the primary pollinator,” López-Uribe said. “This study shows us that we have entire regions that could lose their primary pollinator as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-climate-change-is-buzzing-off-bumblebee-senses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> warms, which could be catastrophic for those ecosystems.”



As climate change continues to reshape global temperatures, understanding the vulnerabilities of flies - as well as bees - will be key in guiding conservation efforts.&nbsp;



Without recognizing and protecting the essential pollination services flies provide, communities may face declining biodiversity, reduced crop yields, and unstable ecological networks in the years to come.



The study is published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.17161/jom.vi122.22505" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Melittology</a>.



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Flies are more vulnerable to climate change than bees

Despite their reputation as buzzing nuisances, flies serve a critical...

When marathon runners train, their minds typically focus on mileage, nutrition, and gear. Yet recent research from the Brown University School of Public Health suggests that runners may also need to think about the air they breathe on race day.&nbsp;



According to a new study published in <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-024-02160-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sports Medicine</a>, higher levels of fine particulate matter in the air are linked to slower average marathon finish times.



“Runners at that level are thinking about their gear, their nutrition, their training, the course, even the weather,” said study author Elvira Fleury, who conducted the research while enrolled as a graduate student at <a href="https://www.brown.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brown University</a> and is now a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>. 



“Our results show that those interested in optimizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-fatigue-impairs-athletic-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">athletic performance</a> should consider the effect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-air-pollution-forms-may-help-us-prevent-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a>, as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-scale-analysis-across-major-marathons">Large-scale analysis across major marathons</h2>



The study drew on finish times from 1,506,137 male and 1,058,674 female participants who ran in nine major marathons throughout the United States - including Boston, Houston, and Los Angeles - between 2003 and 2019.&nbsp;



By combining publicly available race data with a sophisticated statistical model developed by Allan Just, an associate professor of epidemiology and environment and society at Brown, the researchers could determine the amount of fine particulate matter at various points along each course.



“This really sophisticated spatial-temporal model of particulate matter allowed us to plot pollution at every mile of every course,” Fleury said. “Without a model like this, it wouldn't have been possible to look at so many different marathons in different states across different years.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-marathon-performance">Air pollution and marathon performance </h2>



Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, consists of airborne particles smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter and originates from sources like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/intense-forest-fires-leave-scorched-earth-heating-the-planet-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest fires</a>, vehicle emissions, and industrial activities.&nbsp;



Analyzing the data, the researchers found that every 1 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 was associated with slower finish times: on average, 32 seconds slower among men and 25 seconds slower among women. The effect was particularly evident among faster-than-median runners, suggesting that even elite athletes might be affected.



Although these time differences may seem small, Fleury pointed out that they matter greatly in elite competitions, where the margin between victory and defeat or achieving a personal record can be just a few seconds.



“Think of all the effort, time and money that a professional runner like Eliud Kipchoge put into trying to break the world record and run a marathon in less than two hours,” Fleury said. “Every second matters.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marathon-runners-exposed-to-air-pollution">Marathon runners exposed to air pollution </h2>



While previous research has linked air pollution to health issues like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-diet-may-save-your-life-six-key-foods-lower-the-risk-of-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, lung disease, and even mortality, this study examined its impact on the athletic performances of fit, well-trained individuals.&nbsp;



The researchers suggested that exposure to air pollution could lead to increased blood pressure, constricted blood vessels, reduced lung function, respiratory discomfort, or short-term cognitive difficulties - factors that together might slow a runner’s pace.



“People who can complete a marathon are generally quite healthy, and we can assume they have honed their cardiorespiratory fitness,” said study author Joseph Braun, a professor of epidemiology at Brown’s School of Public Health.&nbsp;



“This study revealed a negative impact from air pollution, even at levels below current health-based standards, on these very healthy people. This means that air pollution can be a health risk not just for those who are elderly or susceptible - it can negatively affect even the most healthy and well-trained among us.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-b-roader-implications-of-the-research">Broader implications of the research </h2>



The results serve as a reminder that if air pollution can hamper marathon runners - often among the healthiest individuals - then the general population may also face health risks from polluted air.&nbsp;



The researchers concluded that efforts to lower pollution through regulation of power generation, industry, and transportation not only protect public health but may also help athletes perform at their peak.



For runners striving to set new personal records, paying attention to air quality forecasts could be one more step toward success.&nbsp;



For policymakers and environmental advocates, these findings underscore the importance of continuing efforts to reduce air pollution, ensuring a healthier environment for everyone - from elite athletes to casual joggers and beyond.



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Air pollution negatively affects marathon performance

When marathon runners train, their minds typically focus on mileage,...

Murder,Hornet,Vespa,Mandarinia,Giant,Wasp,Known,As,Killer,Bee

The giant "murder hornet," once feared for threatening insects, agriculture, and human comfort, has been eradicated from its foothold in the United States.



Officials in Washington State have announced that the invasive species, long feared to be on a path to permanent establishment, is no longer lurking in the region where it first appeared. This development, five years in the making, has calmed local growers and everyday folks who once wondered whether the hornet’s presence would spread beyond that northwest corner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-narrow-escape-from-the-murder-hornet">Narrow escape from the murder hornet</h2>



The campaign against the giant murder hornet began when stunned beekeepers discovered eerily decapitated honeybees. Aggressive trapping and tracking techniques soon followed. Specialists from state agencies donned thick suits and carefully approached <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oriental-hornets-have-the-highest-alcohol-tolerance-of-any-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a> nests, using delicate methods to remove them. It took years for the last hornet to turn up empty-handed. This outcome did not come easily. The <a href="https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington State Department of Agriculture</a> and the United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, represented by pest program manager Sven Spichiger and associate deputy administrator <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-plant-protection-quarantine-selects-new-leader-its-emergency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicole Russo</a>, stand as key figures in this success story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-the-front-lines">From the front lines</h2>



The individuals who led the fight against this insect had been worried about the possibility of a permanent invader.&nbsp;



“As an entomologist, I’ve been doing this for over 25 years now, and it is a rare day when the humans actually get to win one against the insects,” said <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sven-Erik-Spichiger" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sven Spichiger</a> at the end of the months-long 2023 tracking season. The dramatic effort to find and eradicate the nests pushed everyone involved to remain vigilant, setting traps, training local port inspectors and working tirelessly to address every reported sighting.



The project required help from all angles.



Observant residents phoned tip lines. Field teams outfitted giant murder hornets with tiny trackers. Nests discovered near the Canadian border were carefully sealed off.



With continued support, officials now say the species is no longer present in that part of Washington. Despite this, many agencies remain on their toes. The United States Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, called the successful effort a <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“landmark achievement”</a> to celebrate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-the-murder-hornets-get-here">How did the murder hornets get here?</h2>



Experts have not identified the precise route by which the giant murder hornet originally arrived. Some suggest it might have hidden inside a shipping container. 



Without clear proof, there is no guarantee a fresh introduction will never happen again. Potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-hornets-so-successful-as-invasive-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future detections</a> will likely trigger a swift response. New sightings remain possible, and teams intend to keep watch. Officials in Washington say that any further activity will face the same intense scrutiny as before. Past lessons will guide all future efforts, so no one wants to take chances.



Outside the United States, fears linked to hornets have rattled others. 



In parts of Europe, alarm spread after a related species, the southern giant hornet, surfaced in northern Spain, prompting researchers to warn that more outbreaks could follow if left unchecked. The wide distribution of similar insects shows that this is not a contained issue. Scientists point to climate conditions, global shipping patterns, and changing ecosystems as reasons why these insects appear in unlikely places.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-a-name">More than a name</h2>



The hornet once caused a buzz in the media under various nicknames. Many remember it being called the “Asian giant hornet” and “murder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hornets-are-the-most-important-pollinators-for-some-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hornet</a>,” but specialists have moved toward a name they find more accurate. 



As per the <a href="https://www.entsoc.org/publications/common-names/better-common-names-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entomological Society of America</a>, calling it the “northern giant hornet” better suits its native range while also reducing problematic associations. That shift may help everyone talk about the insect without tying it to any single region or prompting unnecessary assumptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-really-mattered">What really mattered</h2>



The giant hornet’s potential to damage honeybee colonies and other beneficial insects raised alarms among ecologists, beekeepers and farmers. 



A single hornet nest, if left alone, can cause serious losses in crucial pollinator populations. Many experts knew that if the species spread, it would be no small matter. 



<a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-Bionomic-Sketch-of-the-Giant-Hornet%2C-Vespa-a-Pest-Matsuura-Sakagami/67e9b6a08e424b124bae2965e0d292e55d93ad43" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> on the behavior of the northern giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) suggest that these hornets can quickly invade hives, and their stings pack a painful punch for humans and other animals as well.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-lessons-from-the-murder-hornets">Key lessons from the murder hornets</h2>



One positive takeaway from this situation is that clear communication and community involvement can pay off. Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-invasion-yellow-legged-hornet-spotted-in-the-u-s-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">detection</a> and rapid response efforts worked. The strong network of officials, scientists and residents raised the alarm, tracked every possible hornet and prevented it from spreading to other areas. Officials have also given training and supplies to various inspectors at key points of entry. The entire scenario, though tense, underlined how people can come together to stop a serious threat before it turns into an ongoing crisis.



Further details on the eradication of the northern giant hornet are available <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-action-victory-over-worlds-largest-hornet-species">here</a>. 



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Victory: Invasive "murder hornets" have been completely eradicated from the US

The giant "murder hornet," once feared for threatening insects, agriculture,...

A new study has provided the clearest evidence yet that music therapy can significantly ease the agitation, anxiety, and distress frequently seen in people with advanced dementia. The research also explains in detail why music has such a positive effect, and how it can be systematically woven into daily care. 



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44220-024-00342-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Mental Health</a>, the study offers hope that this readily available and cost-effective tool can help improve quality of life for those facing the greatest challenges of dementia.



Around a million people in the UK live with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/certain-personality-traits-lower-the-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a>, over half of them in advanced stages. As dementia progresses, it can lead to difficult behaviors like aggression, restlessness, wandering, and resistance to care - factors that make life harder for patients, loved ones, and professional caregivers alike.&nbsp;



Now, the evidence indicates that music therapy can offer a pathway to greater calm, improved mood, and more meaningful connections, even in the later phases of the disease.



“With an aging population and increasing numbers of people diagnosed with dementia, music is a relatively straightforward and cost-effective way of improving the quality of life of those affected,” said Naomi Thompson of <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a> (ARU), who led the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tailored-music-therapy-for-dementia-patients">Tailored music therapy for dementia patients </h2>



The research shows that when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-therapy-can-reduce-pain-stress-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music therapy</a> is carefully tailored to an individual’s personal history, tastes, and needs - through listening to familiar recordings, playing instruments, or singing - there can be immediate and short-term improvements in attention, mood, alertness, and engagement.&nbsp;



Just as importantly, these music sessions can reduce anxiety and agitation, helping people feel safer and more oriented.



Why does music have such a profound impact? The study found that music taps into both sides of the brain, stimulating cognitive and sensory networks even as dementia erodes other faculties.&nbsp;



This can allow individuals to access preserved memories and emotions, and regulate their body’s stress responses, leading to reduced distress. In other words, music can gently awaken parts of the mind that are otherwise difficult to reach.



“Our study not only shows why music therapy is successful - including meeting the person’s need for stimulation, supporting familiarity through memories, encouraging relationships, and crucially helping with the reduction of distress and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> - it also paves the way for its wider use in dementia care,” Thompson said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-comfort-of-familiar-music">The comfort of familiar music</h2>



One of the key reasons music therapy works so well is its ability to spark memories. Songs from an individual’s younger years, generally between ages 10 and 30, appear most effective at triggering positive, personal recollections.&nbsp;



These music-driven memories can help restore a sense of identity and comfort, soothing the emotional turmoil that often accompanies advanced dementia.



Music therapists can help caregivers and families identify tracks that resonate with the individual’s life story.&nbsp;



Recorded music, which is easily accessible and affordable, can be integrated into a person’s daily routine, introduced at times when they are most likely to become agitated, or used to foster moments of relaxation and reminiscence.



“Just as a doctor prescribes medications with a specific dose and frequency, a music therapist can outline an individualised program, setting out how music should be used throughout someone’s day to reduce distress and improve their wellbeing,” Thompson explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nonverbal-communication-and-social-interaction">Nonverbal communication and social interaction</h2>



Music does not require words - or strong cognitive function - to be enjoyed or understood. People with severe dementia who struggle with language can still respond to melodies, rhythms, and harmonies. They may sway, hum, or smile in response.&nbsp;



This opens up new avenues for connection between the individual, caregivers, family members, and even other residents in a care home.



Such musical encounters can shift the caregiving dynamic. Instead of focusing solely on managing difficult behaviors, caregivers can share positive experiences that validate the person’s humanity.&nbsp;



These uplifting moments can reduce caregivers’ stress and help them feel more empathetic, strengthening the bond between them and the individuals they support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-use-of-music-therapy-for-dementia">Effective use of music therapy for dementia </h2>



To ensure music therapy is widely adopted, the study recommends training for all care staff in using music effectively.&nbsp;



Music therapists can provide guidance on how to select songs, structure sessions, and integrate these sessions into daily life.&nbsp;



Families should also be encouraged to contribute their knowledge of a loved one’s musical preferences, helping to shape personalized playlists that maximize the therapy’s impact.



The guidance outlined in the study is the result of careful research, including interviews with staff and music therapists working on inpatient dementia wards at the<a href="https://www.cpft.nhs.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust</a>, a systematic review of published studies, a national survey of healthcare professionals, and collaboration with the dementia nursing charity <a href="https://www.dementiauk.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dementia UK</a>.



“People with advanced dementia can sometimes become quite distressed, and we need to find the best ways to help them,” said study co-author Ben Underwood, an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>.&nbsp;



“Music is one thing which can help, and so I am excited to see such high-quality work being done in partnership to see how we can bring music therapy to <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHS</a> dementia patients.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-more-positive-environment-for-everyone-nbsp">Creating a more positive environment for everyone&nbsp;</h2>



Although the primary aim is to improve life for people with advanced dementia, the advantages also extend to families and caregivers.&nbsp;



Engaging with music can reduce their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> and create moments of shared enjoyment, leading to better job satisfaction, reduced caregiver burnout, and a more positive environment all around.



As the number of people living with dementia continues to grow, cost-effective, accessible interventions like music therapy become increasingly valuable. This study not only confirms music’s potential but also provides a realistic plan for making it a standard part of dementia care.



“Music is not just a way to soothe - it’s a way to connect, to remember, and to live more fully in the moment,” Thompson said. “Our study shows that music therapy is not just an option but an essential component of dementia care.”



By embedding music into the heart of dementia care, we can help people with advanced dementia experience less distress, rediscover parts of themselves hidden by the disease, and reconnect with those around them, creating moments of calm, understanding, and human connection.



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Music therapy reduces distress in people with dementia

A new study has provided the clearest evidence yet that...

Adelie,Penguins,On,Ice,Floe,Balleny,Islands,Antarctica

It is well known that Arctic ice captures most headlines when it comes to climate change, but the icy waters around Antarctica are also showing troubling shifts. 



In 2023, Antarctic sea ice hit record lows, a development that left researchers scratching their heads as they observed a surprising surge in ocean changes beneath the now more exposed Southern Ocean surface. This year-over-year shift is no small blip, and it appears that 2024 will surge past the record lows of 2023, continuing this disturbing trend. It represents a dramatic event that scientists have long feared might happen but hoped to avoid. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-winter-without-cover">A new winter without cover</h2>



As the protective ice blanket thinned, the ocean underneath became more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerable</a>. 



Without a solid covering, heat from the water escaped in far greater amounts than seen before. The result was a measurable spike in warmth shifting into the air above the waves. At the same time, storm activity began ramping up, turning the region into a hotbed of atmospheric commotion. 



According to recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08368-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a>, the low ice levels in 2023 allowed for unprecedented ocean heat loss and triggered more frequent storms. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-antarctic-sea-ice">Changing Antarctic sea ice</h2>



This study was conducted by Professor <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=b-RiXNQAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simon Josey</a>, an expert on ocean-atmosphere interaction at the UK’s National Oceanography Centre (<a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOC</a>).&nbsp;



The work paints an unsettling picture of a Southern Ocean entering a new era, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-patterns-point-to-rapid-melting-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions</a> once considered extreme are becoming common. 



Researchers say these harsh conditions could repeat in coming years if <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/152547/antarctic-sea-ice-at-near-historic-lows" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> fails to recover.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-antarctic-sea-ice-conditions">Science behind the Antarctic sea ice conditions</h2>



Shifts in Antarctic <a href="https://nsidc.org/sea-ice-today" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> do not only matter for penguins and seals. The Southern Ocean is a key player in our climate system. It stores carbon, moves heat around the planet, and supports large-scale ocean currents. As ice declines, the ocean’s personality changes. According to the research team’s findings, years with low ice cover will likely feature more intense winter weather and unusual ocean properties. According to the findings, years with minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-are-intense-heat-waves-affecting-life-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> are likely to experience heightened storm activity and significant transformations in ocean characteristics. Simon Josey explained that this trend highlights the ongoing impact of Antarctic sea ice loss which could cascade into long-term disruptions in global climate systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-what-we-thought-we-knew">Rethinking what we thought we knew</h2>



The new results mark a dramatic departure from previous assumptions about the stability and resilience of Antarctica’s icy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-peace-is-at-risk-as-nations-race-for-its-resources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>. 



Before 2023, <a href="https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/clim/35/14/JCLI-D-21-0918.1.xml">scientists</a> did not anticipate such a sharp decline in sea ice and the related jump in ocean heat release. “I didn’t expect to see a real-world ice decline as large as that observed in 2023 with such strong consequences for the ocean heat loss,” said <a href="https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/clim/35/14/JCLI-D-21-0918.1.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Holly Ayres</a>, formerly at the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a> and now at NOC.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-heavier-ocean-in-ice-free-zones">A heavier ocean in ice-free zones</h2>



One of the most striking changes involves the <a href="https://floats.pmel.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/gcj_4j.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">density of surface waters</a>. When the ocean loses heat, the top layer becomes denser. With more ice-free regions, the water is sinking more readily into the depths. “The massive increase in ocean heat loss to the atmosphere is increasing the density of water at the sea surface to values not previously seen,” said Professor Josey.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/declining-Antarctic-sea-ice_Schematic-representation_credit-NOC_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/declining-Antarctic-sea-ice_Schematic-representation_credit-NOC_1s.webp" alt="Declining Antarctic Sea-ice from the NOC Near Present Day NEMO ocean model simulation (credit Dr Adam Blaker). Colors show the difference of June to July 2023 from June to July 1991-2020, blue shows less ice around much of Antarctica." class="wp-image-1954264"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Declining Antarctic Sea-ice from the NOC Near Present Day NEMO ocean model simulation (credit Dr Adam Blaker). Colors show the difference of June to July 2023 from June to July 1991-2020, blue shows less ice around much of Antarctica.</figcaption></figure>



These shifts in density can influence the formation of heavier water masses that can travel far into the ocean’s interior, affecting how heat and nutrients flow across the globe. Over time, the unusual movement of these waters could even alter patterns of <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1029/2024GL111229" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic bottom water</a>, which helps shape global ocean circulation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cracks-in-the-global-weather-puzzle">Cracks in the global weather puzzle</h2>



Far-reaching <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects</a> may emerge. Scientists have long known that the Southern Ocean plays an outsize role in managing Earth’s heat and carbon storage. Now, with the ice slipping away, and more energy escaping into the air, there is a chance that <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/1602.01393?utm_">distant regions</a> could feel the pinch in the form of altered weather patterns. The team at NOC has indicated that it’s too early to confirm whether 2023 and its record-breaking sea-ice decline marked the onset of a fundamental shift in the amount of Antarctic sea ice. The puzzle includes potential changes in how warm waters move beneath the surface, which could set the stage for shifting conditions that ripple far beyond Antarctica but only time will tell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-new-antarctic-sea-ice-simulations">Need for new Antarctic sea ice simulations</h2>



Scientists stress that these findings are not just about one odd year. 



They argue that understanding what is happening now can help us predict what might come next. Improved climate models are needed to understand why this happened and what might follow.



“We need to use our ocean and climate simulations to understand how the major increase in heat loss and increased surface water density in regions of declining Antarctic sea ice impacts the wider ocean circulation,” said Professor Josey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gazing-ahead-with-cautious-eyes">Gazing ahead with cautious eyes</h2>



No one wants to see a permanent slide toward less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-greening-at-an-unprecedented-rate/">ice</a> and more climate chaos. However, if low sea ice cover conditions repeat in future winters, these extraordinary shifts could become the new normal.



What matters now is how researchers worldwide pull together their data, simulations, and knowledge to figure out what this all means for the planet.&nbsp;



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Rapid Antarctic sea ice loss is causing severe storms around the world

It is well known that Arctic ice captures most headlines...

Many educators say students should reach for big goals and targets, but the targets they talk about often revolve around outperforming others or reaching certain test scores. 



Over the past few decades, this familiar pattern has led to a laser-like focus on performance metrics, rank orders, and standardized benchmarks.



Something else may be lurking in the background, though. Something that could explain why some learners surge ahead while others stall out.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-goals-for-student-motivation">Goals for student motivation</h2>



There is new research that suggests we have been overlooking an important dimension - something called potential-based goals.



This fresh look at how students define their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/schools-are-in-a-battle-with-cell-phones-to-keep-students-engaged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aims in school</a> appears in a study recently published in the <a href="https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjep.12728" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Journal of Educational Psychology</a>.



After analyzing years of data from international undergraduate students, the researchers found that these overlooked goals could hold the key to understanding student effort and improvement.



The lead author, <a href="https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/dt-tempelaar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dirk Tempelaar</a>, from the Department of Quantitative Economics, School of Business and Economics, <a href="https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maastricht University</a> in The Netherlands, and his colleagues, point out that when we cling too hard to the old measurements, we miss this extra layer of understanding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-based-goals-and-students">Potential-based goals and students</h2>



Potential-based goals are about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paper-vs-computer-tests-which-is-better-for-students/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">students working</a> toward what they could achieve, rather than just chasing a top grade or beating the class average. These goals encourage learners to consider their own progress over time.



Unlike performance-based goals, potential-based ones do not compare a student with anyone else. They inspire students to measure their efforts against what they might be capable of down the road. 



By doing this, learners may find better ways to improve skills and develop stronger internal motivation.



“Our analysis shows that all eight goal constructs clearly distinguish and confirm both first-order and second-order factor analysis models,” stated Tempelaar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-different-way-to-measure-success">A different way to measure success</h2>



Potential-based goals do not show up much in standard achievement frameworks. 



Traditional methods often focus on whether students master content or outperform others. This can push <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loneliness-disrupts-college-students-sleep-more-than-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">students</a> toward short-term gains, like cramming for a test, rather than long-term growth.&nbsp;



Potential-based goals guide learners to think about their own learning journey, which encourages them to consider their personal limits and challenge themselves beyond any fixed notion of ability.&nbsp;



Research on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotional-intelligence-may-be-secret-to-academic-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">motivation and achievement</a> theory supports the idea that the way in which students think about learning - whether they believe their abilities can grow - can influence how much effort they put into tough tasks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-matters-to-students">Why this matters to students</h2>



Academics have long examined the links between motivation and performance. They have explored growth mindsets, personal best goals, and learning goals. Potential-based goals may fit right alongside these established ideas.



These goals highlight the importance of comparing current progress to a student’s own future possibilities. 



Studies inspired by <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0033-295X.95.2.256" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carol Dweck’s</a> work on goal orientations have shown strong links between how a student views their own ability and how they perform over time.



“Individuals who adopt a learning goal orientation tend to engage in more effective learning strategies,” reported Dweck and co-author Ellen Leggett. Adding potential-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-benefit-the-most-from-shorter-homework-assignments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">goals</a> to the toolbox might enrich this connection.



By encouraging students to consider what they could accomplish, instead of where they currently stand, teachers might help them stretch their efforts in a healthier direction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-size-does-not-fit-all">One size does not fit all</h2>



The researchers examined a large sample - over ten thousand international undergraduates from several academic years - so they could analyze patterns across different cohorts.



This allowed them to confirm that these potential-based goals are not just an outlier or a passing trend. The data suggest these goals matter in a consistent and measurable way.



In a world where classrooms often differ in terms of backgrounds, skill sets, and languages, this new perspective could support <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A%3A1024944429347" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more tailored approaches</a>. Not every student responds the same way to competition.



Some learners find it inspiring, while others get discouraged. Potential-based goals may help level the playing field by nudging students toward personal improvement rather than forcing them to run a race they feel they cannot win.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reshaping-student-goals">Reshaping student goals</h2>



Adding these goals to the existing 3×2 achievement goal framework might also challenge the way in which researchers and educators develop interventions.



Without acknowledging potential-based goals, they may be missing a chance to understand deeper motivational currents.



Certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-students-learn-is-key-to-helping-them-succeed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">teaching techniques</a> that focus solely on hitting predefined targets might overlook what really drives a learner’s persistence. 



When educational policies emphasize grades and rankings, they may unintentionally push aside the student’s sense of personal potential.



“Consistent with Dweck’s model, a learning goal orientation was positively related to successful academic performance,” one <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2F0022-0663.96.2.216" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> reported. 



This line of thought suggests that if teachers learn to recognize a student’s sense of potential, they might design activities that inspire a student to grow, rather than just aim for a fixed benchmark.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-move-toward-practical-application">A move toward practical application</h2>



In practice, educators might consider ways to integrate potential-based goals alongside existing performance or mastery goals. This could mean advising students to set <a href="https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1158116.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personal milestones</a> based on their own capabilities, not just on standard expectations.



It might involve classroom discussions that focus on <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11218-014-9257-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">what learners think they can achieve</a> next semester, not just whether they hit last semester’s targets.



By paying attention to <a href="https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1304716.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential-based goals</a>, educators and policymakers may open new doors, making academic life feel less like a grind and more like a path of individual discovery.



At the end of the day, supporting these goals does not push aside the importance of grades or mastery. It simply gives students another lens by which to understand themselves, their ambitions, and their power to move forward.



The study was published in the <a href="https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjep.12728" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Journal of Educational Psychology</a>.



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Potential-based goals help students achieve peak performance

Many educators say students should reach for big goals and...

In many parts of the world, drought leaves farmers struggling. Dry fields often translate into puny harvests and financial heartache.



Traditional methods of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-in-dry-landscapes-have-surprising-diversity/">checking plants for dryness</a> are slow, and rely heavily on visible signs like wilting leaves. By the time farmers notice, it can be too late to prevent major losses.



Last month, researchers unveiled a promising solution: a sensor that detects dryness in plants up to 48 hours before symptoms first appear. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-clues-hidden-in-plant-fluids">Early clues hidden in plant fluids</h2>



Subtle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sensors-that-detect-plant-stress-could-revolutionize-farming/">chemical shifts</a> deep inside a plant’s tissues can hint at dehydration long before leaves look limp. 



Instead of waiting for obvious signs, researchers used these sensors to measure pH levels inside living plants, thus detecting the early signs of stress.



A decrease in acidity signals the onset of dehydration, and the sensors are designed to detect this shift early. By embedding these <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00216-023-05003-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensors</a> into plant tissues, scientists aim to give farmers an edge in managing water stress.



This research was led by Michael Strano at the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (<a href="https://smart.mit.edu/post/smart-researchers-pioneer-method-to-detect-dehydration-in-plants" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SMART</a>), in collaboration with Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory and MIT.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-these-tiny-sensors">Inside these tiny sensors</h2>



The secret to this approach lies in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0039914023003648" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Covalent Organic Framework (COF) sensors</a>. These advanced materials are built from carbon-containing molecules that are arranged in crystal-like grids. They shift colors in response to changes in pH, making them ideal for tracking plant health.



However, COFs had not been used in biological systems until researchers combined them with <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/ma/d4ma00479e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">silk fibroin microneedles</a>. These microneedles allow the sensors to penetrate plant xylem tissues gently and effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-vision-of-ph-changes">Clear vision of pH changes</h2>



The silk fibroin microneedles are transparent, which enables real-time observation of pH changes inside plants. Drought stress triggers a rise in pH, which these sensors detect through subtle shifts in color.



This breakthrough offers farmers a way to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spot stress early</a> and intervene before visible damage occurs. As climate change intensifies, tools like these could become essential for maintaining crop yields.



“This type of sensor can be easily attached to the plant and queried with simple instrumentation,” explained <a href="https://www.technologyreview.com/innovator/michael-strano/">Michael Strano,</a> SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precision-agriculture-for-harsh-times">Precision agriculture for harsh times</h2>



Agriculture faces increasing challenges from climate unpredictability and rising costs. Many farmers rely on reactive methods to manage crops, which leads to resource inefficiencies.



The new sensors enable proactive measures by offering precise insights into a plant’s internal health. With these <a href="https://smart.mit.edu/research/distap/about-distap" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, growers can conserve water, apply nutrients strategically, and minimize waste.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voices-behind-the-silk-cof-marriage">Voices behind the silk-COF marriage</h2>



“These sensors make agriculture more precise under the challenges of climate change,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=vDv5NCcAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benedetto Marelli,</a> SMART researcher. By integrating nanosensors with biomaterials, the technology offers a seamless method for monitoring plant health.



This innovation enables researchers to explore plant stress indicators more comprehensively. Furthermore, it supports global efforts to improve agricultural sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-subtle-ph-shifts-in-practice">Detecting subtle pH shifts in practice</h2>



When dryness begins to stress a plant, pH levels increase. The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COF sensors</a> capture these shifts by changing from dark red to red.



This simple visual cue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktok-can-help-farmers-discuss-climate-change/">helps farmers</a> detect problems without requiring expensive equipment. By addressing water stress earlier, farmers can protect their crops and reduce overall losses.



“We’ve developed a method to detect pH changes in plant tissues to prevent yield loss,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=1fO3teIAAAAJ&amp;hl=zh-CN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Song Wang</a>, SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-sensor-design">Practical sensor design</h2>



The sensors are minimally invasive and easy to use. Farmers can monitor results with a smartphone camera, capturing color changes directly from the sensor.



“SF microneedles allow real-time mapping of plant health in a minimally invasive way,” confirmed <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=eb8KurwAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Yangyang Han</a>, SMART researcher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead-to-more-targets">Looking ahead to more targets</h2>



The researchers plan to expand this technology beyond pH detection. They aim to design sensors capable of measuring plant hormones and metabolites, which would provide even deeper insights into plant health.



By tracking multiple indicators, COF sensors could revolutionize crop management by enabling farmers to safeguard their crops and resources effectively. This would help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions, and demonstrate the potential for precision <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-nutrient-loss-due-to-heavy-rainfall-threatens-agriculture/">agriculture</a> to tackle the challenges of climate change and food security.&nbsp;



The research was published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53532-7">Nature Communications</a>.



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Tiny sensors can detect dehydration before it destroys crops

In many parts of the world, drought leaves farmers struggling....

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging to the extinct species Othniophyton elongatum, a name that translates to “alien plant.” Initially, researchers speculated it might be part of the ginseng family.&nbsp;



However, new discoveries have turned this assumption on its head. Recent fossil specimens reveal that this ancient plant is even stranger than previously thought, challenging how scientists classify extinct flora.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alien-plant-with-an-unknown-family">Alien plant with an unknown family</h2>



Steven Manchester, curator of paleobotany at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has spent years studying 47-million-year-old fossils from Utah.&nbsp;



During a visit to the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, Manchester encountered an unusually well-preserved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant fossil</a> from the same area as the original Othniophyton elongatum leaves. This fossil included leaves, fruits, and flowers attached to a woody stem - a rare find.



“This fossil is rare in having the twig with attached fruits and leaves. Usually those are found separately,” Manchester said.



Further analysis revealed that these fossils were from the same species as the 1969 find. However, the new evidence showed that Othniophyton elongatum didn’t fit within the ginseng family -- or any other known plant family.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-plant-with-no-living-relatives">A plant with no living relatives</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Alien-plant.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">To uncover the origins</a> of Othniophyton elongatum, Manchester and his colleagues compared the physical features of the fossils to over 400 modern plant families. Despite their extensive search, they couldn’t find a match.



“There are many things for which we have good evidence to put in a modern family or genus, but you can’t always shoehorn these things,” Manchester said.



This was the case with Othniophyton elongatum. Its peculiar combination of traits - including leaves, fruits, and flowers - defied placement in any known group. Even extinct families failed to provide a fit.



The research highlights a significant challenge in paleobotany: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct plants</a> from less than 65 million years ago are often assigned to modern families or genera.&nbsp;



This practice can distort our understanding of ancient biodiversity, creating the false impression that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric ecosystems</a> were more similar to today’s than they actually were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-fossils-from-an-ancient-lake">Strange fossils from an ancient lake</h2>



The fossils were discovered in the Green River Formation near the ghost town of Rainbow in eastern Utah. This formation, a massive inland lake system 47 million years ago, provided ideal conditions for preserving plants and animals in remarkable detail.



Low-oxygen sediments and volcanic ash slowed decomposition, resulting in the preservation of fish, reptiles, birds, and plants, including the fossils of Othniophyton elongatum.&nbsp;



However, the original specimens collected in 1969 offered limited information. Researchers could only analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-had-complex-leaf-vein-networks-200-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leaves</a>, which resembled compound leaves commonly found in the ginseng family.



New fossils, though, painted a very different picture. Leaves attached directly to stems, rather than in a compound arrangement, ruled out the ginseng family.&nbsp;



Additional features, including the plant’s fruits and flowers, ruled out other families like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fairy-circles-kill-all-newly-planted-grasses-deepening-their-mystery/">grasses</a> and magnolias. Even with such detailed specimens, the team remained stumped.



“The two twigs we found show the same kind of leaf attached, but they're not compound. They’re simple, which eliminates the possibility of it being anything in that family,” Manchester explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-look-at-the-alien-plant">A new look at the alien plant</h2>



For years, the fossils sat in storage as researchers struggled to make sense of them. Then, new technology offered a breakthrough. The Florida Museum of Natural History established a microscopy workstation that allowed the team to examine the fossils in unprecedented detail.



Using a digital microscope with computer-enhanced shadow illumination, Manchester and his colleagues discovered features they had previously missed. The minute fruits revealed micro-impressions of their internal anatomy, including developing seeds.



“Normally we don't expect to see that preserved in these types of fossils, but maybe we've been overlooking it because our equipment didn’t pick up that kind of topographic relief,” Manchester said.



One of the most striking aspects was the plant’s stamens, the male reproductive organs of its flowers. In most plants, stamens detach after fertilization, but in Othniophyton elongatum, they remain attached to the mature fruits - an unusual trait not seen in any modern plant.



“Usually, stamens will fall away as the fruit develops. And this thing seems unusual in that it's retaining the stamens at the time it has mature fruits with seeds ready to disperse. We haven't seen that in anything modern,” Manchester noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-ancient-ecosystems">Shedding light on ancient ecosystems</h2>



The study’s lead author, Julian Correa-Narvaez, a doctoral student at the University of Florida, emphasized the importance of the discovery. “It’s important because it gives us a little bit of a clue about how these organisms were evolving and adapting in different places,” he said.



The diversity within plant families can be astonishing. For example, seemingly unrelated species like poison ivy, cashews, and mangoes belong to the same family, which contains over 800 species. However, with Othniophyton elongatum, scientists can only speculate about how much diversity has been lost to time.



Similar discoveries from the Green River Formation have unveiled other extinct plant groups, showing that it remains a rich site for paleobotanical mysteries.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-alien-plant">Significance of the alien plant</h2>



Digital tools like <a href="https://www.idigbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDigBio</a>, which allow researchers to access museum specimens remotely, are helping to unlock these mysteries and advance our understanding of plant evolution.



The discovery of Othniophyton elongatum not only expands our knowledge of extinct plants but also challenges assumptions about how ancient ecosystems functioned.&nbsp;



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcae196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>, this study serves as a reminder of how much remains to be discovered in the fossil record - and how evolving technology can illuminate the secrets of the distant past.



Image Credit: Florida Museum of Natural History photo by Jeff Gage



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Fossil mystery: The "alien plant" that defies classification

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging...

The Greenland Ice Sheet, part of which is shown in this image of Jakobshavn Glacier, is now melting at an incredibly rapid pace, pushing sea levels upward while upsetting global weather patterns. 



Precise measurements of the ice sheet’s changing shape and volume matter greatly at this point in Earth's history because accurate data helps scientists understand what's coming next.



Until recently, getting this information was tricky. 



Now, two advanced missions, ESA’s CryoSat and NASA’s ICESat-2, have joined forces to offer data that reaches far beyond old limits. 



Their combined measurements deliver a more complete view that was not possible before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-greenland-ice-melt">Measuring Greenland ice melt</h2>



As of today, scientists have recorded the first measurements of the Greenland Ice Sheet’s shape changes using both <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FutureEO/CryoSat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CryoSat</a> and <a href="https://icesat-2.gsfc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICESat-2</a> satellites.



This work is led by researchers from the UK Centre for Polar Observation and Modelling (<a href="https://cpom.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPOM</a>). Lead author and CPOM researcher Nitin Ravinder has confirmed that these missions are able to capture changes in ice elevation with impressive accuracy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technologies-from-different-skies">Technologies from different skies</h2>



To measure the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/speed-of-greenland-ice-melt-confirmed-to-be-rapidly-increasing-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rapid loss</a> of the ice all across Greenland, one of the mission satellites relies on radar, and the other uses a laser. 



Radar can measure through clouds but needs careful adjustments because it can pass into the ice surface before bouncing back.



Laser measurements track the actual surface but cannot see through clouds. 



These tools stand at opposite ends, yet when put together, they form a better pair than either could alone. 



In fact, a new study published in Geophysical Research Letters notes that CryoSat and ICESat-2 measurements of Greenland Ice Sheet elevation change agree within 3% of what is actually happening.



This stronger confidence means if one mission fails, the other can still <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-loss-tracked-by-new-gps-system-on-a-daily-basis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keep track of ice changes</a>.



“We are very excited to have discovered that CryoSat and ICESat-2 are in such close agreement. Their complementary nature provides a strong motivation to combine the data sets to produce improved estimates of ice sheet volume and mass changes," says lead author and CPOM researcher Nitin Ravinder.



"As ice sheet mass loss is a key contributor to global sea level rise, this is incredibly useful for the scientific community and policymakers.”



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="23p8n2tdza-4146590-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-ice-and-natural-beauty">Greenland, ice, and natural beauty</h2>



Greenland, the world’s largest island, sits between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. It is mostly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-ice-sheet-discovery-transforms-sea-level-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">covered with thick ice</a>, and its glaciers run from the heart of the island to its shores. 



There are small towns along the coastal edges where people make a life that ties closely to the environment. 



Long winters and brief summers shape a culture centered on fishing, hunting, and a respect for nature’s power. 



The capital, Nuuk, brings together old traditions and new ways of living in a place where weather is a big player in daily life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melting-ice-and-everyday-lives">Melting ice and everyday lives</h2>



A warming climate makes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-glacial-outburst-observed-in-greenland-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland’s glaciers break apart</a> and slip into the ocean. As they melt, sea levels climb, and coastal cities thousands of miles away face the threat of water creeping up their streets. 



Wildlife in Greenland itself struggles when the ice they depend on thins. Polar bears, seals, and walruses have fewer safe spots to rest and hunt. 



For local people, the loss of stable ice can disrupt fishing and hunting practices. Shifts in ocean currents triggered by fresh meltwater also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-transformation-ice-melt-plant-growth-vegetation-cascading-effects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">change weather patterns</a>, and that can spell trouble for everyone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-numbers-behind-greenland-ice-melt">Real numbers behind Greenland ice melt</h2>



Between 2010 and 2023, Greenland’s ice sheet thinned by an average of four feet In the ice sheet’s ablation zone, where summer melting outpaces winter snowfall, the average thinning reached 20 feet. 



The worst thinning was at Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Isbræ, with a peak thinning of 220 feet. At Zachariae Isstrøm in the northeast, peak thinning hit about 250 feet. 



Altogether, the ice sheet shrank by 7,700 cubit feet over a 13-year stretch. It lost more than 1300 cubic feet in 2012 and 2019, matching extreme conditions. 



According to the study, these changes affect not only local environments but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-rivers-are-shifting-with-global-climate-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global weather patterns</a>.



“CryoSat has provided an invaluable platform for understanding our planet’s ice coverage over the past 14 years, but by aligning our data with ICESat-2, we’ve opened new avenues for precision and insight," says Tommaso Parrinello, CryoSat Mission Manager at <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



"This collaboration represents an exciting step forward, not just in terms of technology but in how we can better serve scientists and policymakers who rely on our data to understand and mitigate climate impacts.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aligning-with-sister-missions">Aligning with sister missions</h2>



<a href="https://earth.esa.int/eogateway/missions/cryosat/cryo2ice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Cryo2ice campaign</a> that began in 2020 let scientists put CryoSat and ICESat-2 measurements side by side. 



By adjusting CryoSat’s orbit, ESA allowed the two satellites to gather radar and laser data over the same areas, almost at the same time. 



This set the stage for measuring snow depth from space with a level of accuracy that simply did not exist before.



“It is great to see that the data from ‘sister missions’ are providing a consistent picture of the changes going on in Greenland,” says Thorsten Markus, project scientist for the ICESat-2 mission at <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“Understanding the similarities and differences between radar and lidar ice sheet height measurements allow us to fully exploit the complementary nature of those satellite missions." 



Studies like this are critical to put a comprehensive time series of the ICESat, CryoSat-2, ICESat-2, and, in the future, CRISTAL missions together.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenland-ice-and-earth-s-future">Greenland ice and Earth's future</h2>



The accurate data now available will help in decisions that governments must make soon. Timely, reliable information on ice thickness shifts can guide planning for coastal infrastructure. 



It matters to millions of people who live near shores in every corner of the planet, and for those who rely on stable weather patterns to grow food and make a living.



ESA’s CryoSat and NASA’s ICESat-2 work as a team to keep an eye on the ice. Together, they paint a detailed picture of changes in Greenland. 



That picture gives experts and leaders better tools for understanding the future and figuring out how to adapt.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GL110822" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



Video Credit: ESA/Planetary Visions



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Greenland ice sheet seen melting in real-time from Earth orbit

The Greenland Ice Sheet, part of which is shown in...

Life on Earth has faced immense challenges in recent years. The pandemic, heatwaves, and natural disasters remind us how fragile our existence is. These events fuel the argument for seeking a new home in space where humanity might reproduce and thrive.



However, for humans to live and grow on other planets, we must first understand if it’s possible to have children in space. This is a critical question because reproduction is essential for population growth in a new environment.



To address this, scientists are conducting novel experiments involving freeze-dried mouse sperm that is stored aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The results could provide vital insights into the possibility of mammalian reproduction beyond Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frozen-sperm-experiment-in-space">Frozen sperm experiment in space</h2>



Freeze-dried mouse sperm is currently stored on the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISS</a> in a radiation-protected environment. 



In 2025, the samples will return to Earth, where Professor Teruhiko Wakayama from Japan’s <a href="https://www.yamanashi.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Yamanashi</a> will study them. He aims to determine the impact of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-debris-will-create-a-human-made-meteor-shower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space environment</a> on reproduction and assess whether these samples can create healthy offspring.



Wakayama has ambitious goals. He is developing a device to enable astronauts to conduct rodent in vitro fertilization (IVF) aboard the ISS. This could pave the way for human reproduction in space and may even provide an avenue to safeguard Earth’s genetic diversity.



“Our aim is to establish a system for safely and permanently preserving Earth’s genetic resources somewhere in space – whether on the moon or elsewhere – so that life can be revived even if Earth faces catastrophic destruction,” said Wakayama.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sending-mouse-sperm-to-space">Sending mouse sperm to space</h2>



Wakayama is no stranger to pushing scientific boundaries. In 1997, he co-developed a method to clone the first mouse from adult cells. Since then, he has conducted various studies on reproduction in space.



His team pioneered a freeze-drying method to send mouse sperm to the ISS, where it was stored for six years. Upon its return, the sperm produced healthy baby mice.



The findings revealed that freeze-dried sperm could remain viable for up to 200 years in space. 



“That’s absolutely not long enough for our future,” Wakayama admits. He is now testing a new radiation-resistant storage device to extend the viability of reproductive cells indefinitely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creatures-that-reproduced-in-space">Creatures that reproduced in space</h2>



Scientists have long studied Earthly organisms in space to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-are-surprisingly-good-at-flying-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity and cosmic radiation</a> affect biological processes. 



In 1989, fertilized chicken eggs traveled to space in an experiment nicknamed “Chix in Space.” Frogs and fish have also reproduced in space, though with mixed success. In 2007, a cockroach gave birth to offspring conceived in orbit, though the young displayed some abnormalities.



“We have seen that most of the specific phases of the reproductive cycle can occur in space, at least in a species or two, not always completely successfully. Going to mammals is the next natural step,” explained Virginia Wotring, a professor at the International Space University in France.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-sustaining-life">Challenge of sustaining life</h2>



Human reproduction in space faces significant hurdles. Cosmic radiation can damage DNA, increasing the risk of genetic abnormalities in offspring. Microgravity may interfere with embryo development, including critical processes like forming the nervous system and limbs.



“There is other information that we need right now in order to care for the astronauts we’re sending to space now,” said Wotring. Immediate priorities include mitigating the effects of radiation, muscle loss, and weakened immunity.



Despite these challenges, Wakayama believes his work is essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-like-ecosystem-necessary-for-humans-to-live-in-deep-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term space exploration</a>. He noted that understanding how reproduction works in space could help humans settle on other planets and even bring livestock and pets to sustain life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possibility-of-reproducing-in-space">Possibility of reproducing in space</h2>



Wakayama’s IVF project has been accepted by Japan’s space agency, and he hopes to launch the necessary device to the ISS within two years. His experiments could reveal whether mammals, including humans, can reproduce and develop normally in space.



“In sci-fi movies, people live on other planets and babies are born, but we don’t even know if that’s possible yet,” said Wakayama. His work aims to answer this fundamental question.



“If we can confirm that, it will bring reassurance. And if it doesn’t work, we need to understand how to address that challenge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-research">Broader implications of the research </h2>



Humanity has made strides toward becoming a multi-planetary species. NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artemis</a> program plans to return astronauts to the Moon in 2026, while SpaceX envisions a crewed mission to Mars in the near future. However, these ambitious plans hinge on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solving critical issues</a>, including reproduction.



Wakayama’s research represents a vital step in understanding how life can sustain itself in space. Whether his experiments confirm or challenge the possibility of reproduction, they will shape the future of human space exploration.



As we look to the stars, questions about survival and reproduction remind us of the complexities of leaving Earth behind. Whether or not we can thrive in space remains one of humanity’s greatest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marss-space-debris-should-be-regarded-as-historical-artifacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific frontiers</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abg5554">Science Advances</a>.



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Frozen sperm can remain viable in space for over 200 years

Life on Earth has faced immense challenges in recent years....