Instead of having a traditional foundation, their homes are famously built on stilts rising just above the water&#8217;s surface. In the event of a major storm, they will evacuate to the shore. Every other day of their lives is spent out in the ocean. Photo Credit: Bertrand RIEGER/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Stilted Home

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Messier 78 (M78), a reflection nebula located in the constellation Orion about 1,350 light-years away from Earth. 



This image was released as part of the initial series of observations from ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a>.&nbsp;



All data collected during these early observations, including a series of incredible <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid/Euclid_s_first_images_the_dazzling_edge_of_darkness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new views</a> of the nearby universe, is available to the public. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-messier-78">Image of Messier 78</h2>



Featured here is a high-resolution, detailed segment of a larger image showcasing Messier 78, a dynamic region of star formation obscured by cosmic dust.&nbsp;



This specific view highlights how young stars generate winds of charged particles, carving out “cavities” in the molecular clouds around them.&nbsp;



The blue hues in the image represent ionized atomic hydrogen, which is a primary component of the cloud, while the red indicates the absorption and scattering of light by dust particles.



The image captures hundreds of stars varying in brightness, illuminating their nebulous, purple surroundings. A dark, arch-like structure stretches from the upper left to the bottom right of the frame, merging into the densest, darkest clouds at the image’s base.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-site-of-star-formation-nbsp">Active site of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is not just a single nebula but part of a larger complex of stars and nebulous regions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a>, which includes various other objects like dark nebulae that are visible as patches blocking light from behind.



This region is an active site of star formation, featuring many young stars and protostars, which are stars in the early stages of formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-messier-78">Viewing Messier 78</h2>



M78 is easily observable with small telescopes, and it appears as a hazy patch of light with two prominent stars near its center, which illuminate the surrounding dust.&nbsp;



The nebula is also a favorite among amateur astronomers for its beauty and relatively bright appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subject-of-scientific-interest-nbsp">Subject of scientific interest&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;



The nebula consists of dense, cold gas and dust, which are essential ingredients for the birth of new stars.&nbsp;



The intense blue light that characterizes M78 is due to the reflection of starlight off these dust particles, a process known as scattering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-region-surrounding-messier-78-nbsp">Region surrounding Messier 78&nbsp;</h2>



The region surrounding M78 includes several other interesting features. For instance, there are Herbig-Haro objects within it, which are small patches of nebulosity associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly born stars</a>.&nbsp;



These objects are formed when gas ejected by young stars collides with clouds of gas and dust at high speeds, creating shock waves that glow brightly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earliest-stages-of-star-development-nbsp">Earliest stages of star development&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, infrared observations of M78 have revealed much about the dust and colder objects in the area, which are not visible in optical light.&nbsp;



The observations have helped astronomers identify numerous young stars and brown dwarfs (objects that are too large to be planets and too small to be stars) within the nebula. 



This makes M78 a critical area for studying the earliest stages of star development and the properties of the interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp-0">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-batch-of-brilliant-images-from-the-euclid-mission-live-up-to-the-hype/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a> is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission designed to study the dark universe, particularly focusing on dark energy and dark matter, which are fundamental components that are believed to drive the accelerating expansion of the universe and shape its large-scale structure.&nbsp;



The mission aims to map the geometry of the dark universe and better understand the physics of the cosmos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-billions-of-galaxies-nbsp">Observing billions of galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Euclid uses two primary scientific instruments: a visible light camera (VIS) and a near-infrared spectrometer and photometer (NISP).&nbsp;



These instruments will allow Euclid to measure the shapes and redshifts of galaxies at distances of up to 10 billion light-years. By surveying more than a third of the sky, the mission is expected to observe several billion galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-dark-universe-nbsp">Studying the dark universe&nbsp;</h3>



The data collected will help astronomers in studying the effects of dark matter and dark energy in depth, testing cosmological models, and exploring new theories about the nature of the universe.&nbsp;



The mission, named after the ancient Greek mathematician Euclid, seeks to address key questions related to the structure of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics governing its evolution and expansion.



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco.&nbsp;



The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae-nbsp">Planetary nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.



“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.



“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the Cat’s Eye</h2>



“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”



According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”



Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;



Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-draco-nbsp">The constellation Draco&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;



In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.



Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;



One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;



Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;



The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;



The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



The Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study. 



These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, which is located about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. NGC 3783 is also the most prominent of a galaxy group (by the same name) that contains 47 galaxies. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-groups">Galaxy groups</h2>



“Like galaxy clusters, galaxy groups are aggregates of gravitationally bound galaxies. Galaxy groups, however, are less massive and contain fewer members than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clusters</a> do: where galaxy clusters can contain hundreds or even thousands of constituent galaxies, galaxy groups do not typically include more than 50,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The Milky Way is actually part of a galaxy group, known as the Local Group, which contains two other large galaxies (Andromeda and the Triangulum galaxy), as well as several dozen satellite and dwarf galaxies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hd-101274-a-blue-giant-star">HD 101274: A blue giant star</h2>



The bright object that appears to the right of the galaxy is the star HD 101274. “The perspective in this image makes the star and the galaxy look like close companions, but this is an illusion. HD 101274 lies only about 1,530 light-years from Earth, meaning it is about 85 thousand times closer than NGC 3783,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



The star is part of the NGC 3766 cluster, which is sometimes referred to as the Pearl Cluster, an open cluster known for its richness in bright stars and its relatively young age.



HD 101274 is categorized as a blue giant star, characterized by its high temperature and luminosity. 



Blue giants are massive stars that have left the main sequence phase of stellar evolution and are burning helium or heavier elements in their cores. These stars are known for their short lifespans relative to smaller stars due to their rapid consumption of nuclear fuel.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stars</a> like HD 101274 are important for astronomers because they help in studying the properties of stellar populations in clusters and the dynamics of stellar evolution in different environments. 



The spectral and photometric observations of such stars can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of their atmospheres, internal structures, and the processes occurring within and around them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-central-region-of-ngc-3783">Bright central region of NGC 3783</h2>



One of the most interesting aspects of NGC 3783 is that it harbors an active galactic nucleus, meaning its central region is exceptionally luminous, likely due to the presence of a supermassive black hole. This black hole is actively accreting material, which emits a substantial amount of radiation as it spirals inward and heats up.



The galaxy is particularly known for its bright central region and has been studied extensively in the ultraviolet and X-ray light spectra to understand better the properties of the accretion disk around the black hole and the complex dynamics of the material surrounding it. These studies are crucial for understanding the physics of active galactic nuclei and the role they play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>.



According to ESA, NGC 3783 is a&nbsp;Type I Seyfert galaxy. “In this image it is recorded by Hubble in incredible detail, from its glowing central bar to its narrow, winding arms and the dust threaded through them, thanks to five separate images taken in different wavelengths of light," noted ESA.



“In fact, the galactic center is bright enough to Hubble that it exhibits diffraction spikes, normally only seen on stars such as HD 101274.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ngc-3783-galaxy-group">More about the NGC 3783 galaxy group</h2>



The NGC 3783 group is part of the larger Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster, which itself is a massive collection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and galaxy clusters located primarily in the constellations of Hydra and Centaurus.



The NGC 3783 group consists of several galaxies that are gravitationally bound and interact with each other. These interactions can influence the galaxies' evolution through mechanisms like tidal forces and merger events, which can trigger star formation, fuel central black holes, and reshape the galaxies' structures.



Studying groups like the NGC 3783 group helps astronomers understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> evolve together in a common gravitational environment, offering insights into the dynamics and evolution of structures on cosmic scales. 



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a 9.5-mile section of Pangong Lake on the western end of the Tibetan Plateau. The image was captured on by a crew member onboard the International Space Station.&nbsp;



“In this winter scene, a sheet of cracked ice tops part of the lake,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “On the left side, open water appears blue. Shallow water offshore of a delta, formed by a small, winding river, appears green."



"Parallel lines along the coastlines of bays are visible in the high-resolution version of this image. These lines indicate raised beaches, which formed in the past when lake levels were higher.”



NASA pointed out that several roads cut across the landscape, including one with switchbacks that ascends a steep slope. "These roads facilitate tourist travel from both India and China.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-birds-at-pangong-lake-nbsp">Migratory birds at Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake and its surroundings are home to numerous bird species, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-burn-unexpected-amounts-of-protein/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a>. Visitors can spot various waterfowl and waders that are rarely seen elsewhere.



“During the summer, species such as bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks attract bird watchers to the lake, which is a major breeding ground for migrating birds,” said NASA.



Pangong Lake is one of the few places in India where the endangered black-necked crane is found during its breeding season. 



Ruddy shelduck and brown-headed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gulls</a> are also frequently spotted around the lake. The ruddy shelduck is known for its striking orange-brown body and creamy white head, while the brown-headed gulls are often seen flying or swimming in the lake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pangong-lake-nbsp">Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-are-rising-unexpectedly-fast-on-the-tibetan-plateau/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, extending from India to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. It is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic setting, with the lake lying at an elevation of about 4,350 meters.



One of the most distinctive features of Pangong Lake is its changing colors, ranging from shades of blue to green and even red, influenced by the sky's reflection and the lake's mineral content.



This saline water lake is approximately 134 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide at its broadest point. Despite its considerable size, Pangong Lake is relatively shallow. 



The lake gained additional popularity after being featured in several Indian films - most notably the Bollywood hit "3 Idiots." Its remote location requires a permit for visitors, especially due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control between India and China.



Despite the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding its location, Pangong Lake remains a favorite among tourists for its unparalleled natural beauty and serene environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-altitude-lakes">High-altitude lakes</h2>



High-altitude lakes are unique bodies of water found at elevations typically above 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in mountain ranges like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, Andes, and Rockies. 



These lakes are formed either by glacial activity, where glaciers erode the earth to create depressions that fill with melted snow and rainwater, or when natural dams created by landslides or moraines trap water in valleys.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environments">Extreme environments</h3>



The conditions at high altitudes make these lakes distinct in several ways. The climate is typically colder and harsher, with significant temperature variations between day and night. 



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-habitats">Critical habitats</h3>



Biologically, high-altitude lakes often have limited biodiversity because only certain types of plants and animals can tolerate the cold temperatures and lower oxygen levels in the water. 



Despite this, these lakes are crucial habitats for some unique species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They also serve as important indicators of climate change, as variations in their water levels and temperatures can reflect environmental shifts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-high-altitude-lakes">Significance of high-altitude lakes </h3>



Lakes at high altitudes are often clear and pristine, due to the low density of human populations in these areas and minimal industrial activity, making them significant for ecological studies and attractive for tourism. 



However, they are sensitive ecosystems, and increased tourist activity brings challenges like pollution and habitat disruption.



High-altitude lakes are not only beautiful and scientifically significant but also hold cultural importance for local communities, often considered sacred and associated with historical and spiritual significance.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the aftermath of devastating floods in the Valencia region of Eastern Spain.&nbsp;



On October 29, 2024, torrential rainfall unleashed nearly a year’s worth of precipitation in just eight hours, leading to catastrophic flash floods that affected a vast area from Málaga to Valencia. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flash-floods-in-valencia">Flash floods in Valencia </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-floods-are-set-to-become-much-more-common-in-the-u-s/">Floodwaters</a> submerged entire neighborhoods and agricultural lands. Many roads and infrastructure were overwhelmed almost instantly, stranding vehicles and prompting widespread evacuations. Water levels rose faster than emergency services could respond.



One resident of Paiporta, near Valencia, told the BBC that when the water started to rise it was "like a tsunami wave."



“In a matter of minutes, flash floods caused by heavy downpours in eastern Spain swept away everything in their path. With no time to react, people were trapped in vehicles, homes and businesses,” reported the Associated Press.



More than 200 people were killed and thousands of people were rescued. According to SOS Desaparecidos, as many as 1,300 people remained unaccounted for on Friday, three days after the floods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnitude-of-the-tragedy-nbsp">Magnitude of the tragedy&nbsp;</h2>



Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister for Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, said: “The fact that we can’t give a number of the missing persons indicates the magnitude of the tragedy.”&nbsp;



Some areas, including the Spanish town of Alfafar, are completely cut off from communication.&nbsp;



Juan Ramón Adsuara, the mayor of Alfafar, said the aid isn't nearly enough for residents trapped in an "extreme situation."



"There are people living with corpses at home. It's very sad. We are organizing ourselves, but we are running out of everything," Adsuara told reporters. "We go with vans to Valencia, we buy and we come back, but here we are totally forgotten."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-warning-was-not-issued-in-time">Government warning was not issued in time</h2>



On Tuesday morning, Spain's meteorological agency Aemet warned that torrential rains were forecast for the region of Valencia, before issuing a&nbsp; "maximum red alert.”



Carlos Mazon, Valencia’s regional president, said the government sent out an SMS alert reserved for the “worst possible scenario.” But according to a report from CNN, that alert was sent hours too late.



“By 5 p.m., Valencia’s emergency services were swamped by hundreds of pleas for help throughout the region,” wrote Atika Shubert, a CNN Senior International Correspondent.



“It was at 8 p.m. that cell phones finally buzzed with the public alert telling residents to stay indoors. Much too little, much too late, even for those downstream of the raging water who might otherwise have had time to prepare.”



The BBC also noted that many people have questioned the timing of the government's warning, which arrived more than 12 hours after Aemet issued its first red alert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-in-a-warming-climate">Extreme weather in a warming climate</h2>



The deadly floods in Valencia were primarily caused by an extreme weather event that brought record-breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-events-are-interconnected-around-the-globe/">rainfall</a>. The intense downpour was fueled by unusually warm Mediterranean Sea temperatures, which increased moisture in the atmosphere and intensified the rainfall.&nbsp;



Climate experts link this phenomenon to climate change, as warmer seas lead to more frequent, severe storms. The combination of heavy rain and the region's limited drainage capacity led to flash flooding, overwhelming local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/">infrastructure</a>.



Rising ocean temperatures are largely driven by increased greenhouse gases that trap more heat in the atmosphere. Oceans absorb about 90% of this excess heat, leading to warmer waters, especially near the surface.&nbsp;



This warming disrupts marine ecosystems, contributing to coral bleaching and altering habitats for species like fish and marine mammals.



With the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">climate crisis</a> intensifying, experts warn that warmer ocean temperatures will heighten the risk of rapid, destructive rainfall events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-deadliest-flood-in-europe-this-century-nbsp">Second-deadliest flood in Europe this century&nbsp;</h2>



Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the disaster was the second-deadliest flood in Europe this century and that Spain was carrying out its largest deployment of army and security force personnel in peacetime. The country was sending 5,000 soldiers and 5,000 police officers to the eastern region of Valencia on Saturday.



Four days after the devastating floods, rescuers are still searching for bodies. Thousands of volunteers are helping to clean up the thick mud that covers streets, homes, and businesses in the hardest-hit towns.&nbsp;



Prime Minister Sanchez responded to people who expressed they feel abandoned with no help or communication in the days following the tragic flooding.



“I am aware the response is not enough, there are problems and severe shortages… towns buried by mud, desperate people searching for their relatives.”



"For those who at this moment are still looking for their loved ones, the whole of Spain weeps with you."



According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/">ESA</a>, the Copernicus Emergency Rapid Mapping Service has been activated to provide satellite imagery that can support rescue and recovery efforts.



Image Credit: USGS, processed by ESA&nbsp;



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Valencia floods: A tragedy fueled by extreme weather

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a brilliant stellar nursery located about 163,000 light-years away.



According to ESA, the image is one of the most photogenic examples of the many stellar nurseries observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope during its 30-year lifetime. 



“The portrait features the giant nebula NGC 2014 and its neighbor NGC 2020 which together form part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-stellar-nursery">What is a stellar nursery?</h2>



Stellar nurseries are regions in space where new stars are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">born</a> - often within vast clouds of gas and dust called molecular clouds.&nbsp;



These areas are fascinating because they are cradles of stellar evolution, where gravity causes clumps of gas to collapse, eventually forming protostars.&nbsp;



Over time, the protostars will heat up and start the nuclear fusion process that powers a star.



One of the most well-known stellar nurseries is the Orion Nebula, which is visible to the naked eye and located about 1,350 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-a-stellar-nursery-nbsp">Dynamic nature of a stellar nursery&nbsp;</h2>



Within these nurseries, the balance between gravity and pressure determines the types of stars that form, from massive, luminous stars to smaller, cooler ones like our Sun.&nbsp;



The environment is incredibly dynamic, with powerful winds from young stars shaping the clouds and triggering the birth of even more stars.



These regions are often illuminated by the light from massive newborn stars - creating stunning, colorful displays. The light reveals the intricate structure of the dust and gas, sculpted by the energy of young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-stellar-nurseries-nbsp">Significance of stellar nurseries&nbsp;</h2>



Stellar nurseries are essential for understanding the early stages of planetary formation, as protoplanetary disks (the material from which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets form</a>) are often found around young stars in these regions.



Stellar nurseries play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. They are responsible for the continuous birth of new stars that enrich the interstellar medium with heavier elements. This constant recycling of material is key to the development of future generations of stars and planets.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the study of these regions helps astronomers understand the fundamental processes that govern the life cycles of stars and the overall dynamics of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-local-group">The Local Group</h2>



The Local Group is a collection of over 80 galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Triangulum Galaxy, along with numerous smaller dwarf galaxies. These galaxies are bound together by gravity and span a region roughly 10 million light-years across.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-thin-disk-is-billions-of-years-older-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and Andromeda are the dominant members, with their respective satellite galaxies orbiting them.&nbsp;



The Local Group is part of a larger structure known as the Virgo Supercluster, and its galaxies are moving toward the gravitational center of the Local Group, contributing to its dynamic nature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-magellanic-cloud">Large Magellanic Cloud</h2>



The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fourth largest galaxy in the Local Group and can be seen with the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



This irregular dwarf galaxy is home to the Tarantula Nebula, one of the most active star-forming regions in our cosmic neighborhood.&nbsp;



The Large Magellanic Cloud played a key role in astronomical history, particularly when the supernova SN 1987A was observed, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution.&nbsp;



The LMC's interaction with the Milky Way, along with its own companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud, is believed to influence its shape and star formation activity. Its proximity and unique properties make it a crucial object of study for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>, star formation, and the dynamics of interacting galaxies.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) features the Dark Wolf Nebula, located around 5,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Scorpius.



According to ESO, this image of the dark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-ring-nebula-as-it-has-never-been-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> creates the illusion of a wolf-like silhouette against a colorful cosmic backdrop. 



“This image takes up an area in the sky equivalent to four full Moons, but is actually part of an even larger nebula called Gum 55. If you look closely, the wolf could even be a werewolf, its hands ready to grab unsuspecting bystanders,” noted <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-nebulae-nbsp">Dark nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



Dark nebulae are dense regions in space filled with gas and dust that absorb visible light, making them appear as dark patches against brighter backgrounds.&nbsp;



Unlike emission or reflection nebulae, dark nebulae do not glow on their own. Instead, they obstruct and obscure the light from stars and other objects lying behind them.&nbsp;



This characteristic makes them challenging to observe using visible-light telescopes, as they absorb and scatter light rather than reflecting or emitting it.&nbsp;



However, when viewed in infrared, where their obscuring effect is reduced, dark nebulae reveal intricate details about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular clouds</a> they contain.



According to ESO, astronomers study these clouds of frozen dust because they often contain new stars in the making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-wolf-nebula-nbsp">Dark Wolf Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Dark Wolf Nebula is part of a larger complex known as the Lupus Molecular Cloud, one of several significant star-forming regions close to Earth.&nbsp;



Inside of dark nebulae, the conditions are prime for star formation. The dense gas and dust clump together under gravitational forces, and as the clouds contract, they heat up, eventually igniting nuclear fusion and forming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new stars</a>.



The Dark Wolf Nebula is known for revealing young, low-mass stars, or T Tauri stars, which are in the early stages of their evolution. These stars are still surrounded by disks of material that may eventually form new planets.



This nebula is typically studied in infrared, which allows scientists to look beyond the obscuring dust to observe the processes of star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-scorpius-nbsp">The constellation Scorpius&nbsp;</h2>



Scorpius is one of the most recognizable constellations in the sky. It resembles a scorpion with a long, curved tail and stinger.&nbsp;



Located in the southern sky, Scorpius is especially visible during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



The constellation is often associated with the story of Orion in Greek mythology. According to legend, the scorpion was sent by the goddess Artemis to kill Orion, the great hunter, either as punishment for his arrogance or to protect her animals, depending on the version of the tale.&nbsp;



The gods later placed both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a> and Scorpius in the sky, but in opposite parts of the heavens so they would never be seen together - as Scorpius rises in the east and Orion sets in the west.



Scorpius contains several notable stars and deep-sky objects. Its brightest star, Antares, is a red supergiant often referred to as the "Heart of the Scorpion" due to its reddish hue and central position.&nbsp;



Antares is one of the largest visible stars in the sky and has a luminosity tens of thousands of times greater than that of our Sun.&nbsp;



Scorpius is located close to the core of the Milky Way, making it a rich region for star clusters and nebulae. Among these are the Butterfly Cluster and the Ptolemy Cluster, both of which are visible to the naked eye under dark skies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-dark-wolf-nebula">Image of the Dark Wolf Nebula </h2>



“This image shows in spectacular detail how the dark wolf stands out against the glowing star-forming clouds behind it,” noted ESO.



“The colorful clouds are built up mostly of hydrogen gas and glow in reddish tones excited by the intense UV radiation from the newborn stars within them.”



The picture was created from images taken at different times. Each of the images has a filter that makes a different color of light visible.&nbsp;



Observations of the Dark Wolf Nebula provide astronomers with valuable information about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of stars</a> and the environments in which they form.



The image was captured by the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at ESO’s Paranal Observatory in Chile.



Image Credit: ESO/VPHAS+ team



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Dark Wolf Nebula in the constellation Scorpius

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features an incredible new image of the Crab Nebula in bright neon colors. 



“The unusual image was produced by combining data from telescopes spanning nearly the entire electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



Colored in red, the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) provided information about the nebula gathered in the radio regime.



NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope took infrared images, which appear yellow, while the NASA/ESA <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-captures-another-cosmic-masterpiece-in-galaxy-ngc-2217/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope provided images made in optical wavelengths, colored in green.&nbsp;



Blue colors represent ultraviolet observations made by ESA’s XMM-Newton telescope, and the purple colors are X-ray radiation data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-crab-nebula-nbsp">About the Crab Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Crab Nebula, located in the constellation Taurus, contains the remnants of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova explosion</a> first observed on Earth in 1054 AD. This explosion was recorded by Chinese astronomers and possibly by Native American rock art.&nbsp;



The nebula spans about 11 light-years across and lies approximately 6,500 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-crab-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studied objects</a> in the sky, largely due to its status as a bright and dynamic supernova remnant.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crab-pulsar">The Crab Pulsar</h2>



The Crab Nebula contains a pulsar at its center, which is a rapidly rotating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-spinning-neutron-star-completely-defies-our-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a> that emits pulses of radiation. This pulsar, known as the Crab Pulsar, spins about 30 times per second and is a significant source of gamma rays and other forms of high-energy radiation.&nbsp;



The nebula itself is a complex structure of filaments and synchrotron radiation. The filaments are remnants of the original star's outer layers, while the synchrotron radiation emerges from electrons spiraling in the magnetic fields produced by the pulsar.



“Surrounding the pulsar lies a mix of material; some of it was originally expelled from the star before it went supernova, and the rest was ejected during the explosion itself,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



“Fast-moving winds of particles fly off from the neutron star, energizing the dust and gas around it. These different layers and intricacies of the nebula can be observed in all of the different wavelengths of light.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crab-nebula-observation-nbsp">Crab Nebula observation&nbsp;</h2>



Throughout its history, the Crab Nebula has provided critical insights into the processes of stellar death, the behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pulsars-are-helping-astronomers-pinpoint-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pulsars</a>, and the mechanics of supernova remnants.&nbsp;



Its continuous observation has revealed changes over time, such as the expansion of its filaments and variations in its brightness, offering a dynamic laboratory for astrophysical studies.



Overall, the Crab Nebula is a highly energetic and object, providing valuable insights into the processes following a supernova explosion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-nebulae">Fascinating facts about nebulae</h2>



Nebulae are some of the most breathtaking and intriguing structures in the universe. They are vast clouds of gas and dust, often considered stellar nurseries where new stars are born. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-of-nebulae">Colors of nebulae </h3>



One of the most fascinating aspects of nebulae is their ability to glow in different colors. This occurs because they either reflect the light of nearby stars or emit light due to the ionization of gases within them, particularly hydrogen. 



Some nebulae, like the famous Orion Nebula, are visible to the naked eye and serve as one of the nearest regions of active star formation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae">Planetary nebulae </h3>



Stars are born in dense regions of nebulae, and when they die, some will expel their outer layers, creating stunning structures known as planetary nebulae. The colorful clouds left behind can shine brightly for thousands of years. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-size">Massive size</h3>



Another amazing fact is that some nebulae are so vast that light can take years to travel from one side to the other, stretching across hundreds of light-years.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-remnants">Star remnants </h3>



Perhaps even more mind-boggling is the fact that nebulae are the remnants of previous generations of stars. Supernova explosions of massive stars can create these glowing clouds of gas and dust, seeding the cosmos with the elements necessary for the formation of new stars and planets.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, G. Dubner (IAFE, CONICET-University of Buenos Aires) et al.; A. Loll et al.; T. Temim et al.; F. Seward et al.; VLA/NRAO/AUI/NSF; Chandra/CXC; Spitzer/JPL-Caltech; XMM-Newton/ESA; and Hubble/STScI



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Crab Nebula: The remains of a massive star explosion

The MODIS instrument, short for Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, is a key instrument aboard the Terra and Aqua satellites. MODIS is playing a vital role in the development of Earth ecosystem models, able to predict global changes, which then assist policy makers in making informed decisions about the protection of the global environment.

Heavy snow and cloud cover in the Alps are seen in this Image of the day&nbsp;from the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> and features a look at heavy snow and low clouds in the Alps. Wildlife such as ibex live in the higher peaks to elevations of 3,400 m (11,155 ft), and plants such as Edelweiss grow in rocky areas in lower elevations as well as in higher elevations.

Heavy snow and cloud cover in the Alps

Monitoring Earth Changes with MODIS

Aqua is a NASA scientific research satellite that studies precipitation, evaporation, and water cycles. Terra and Aura make up the Earth Observing System. It's the second component of the system.

A frozen Lake Erie in February Today’s Image of the Day comes from the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> and features a look at a frozen <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/icy-lake-erie/">Lake Erie</a>, which is currently 93.3 percent iced over. A frozen Lake Erie in February
This false-color image was created using data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board the Aqua satellite to differentiate between snow, ice, and clouds.
Lake Erie /ˈɪəri/ (French: Lac Érié) is the fourth-largest lake (by surface area) of the five Great Lakes in North America, and the eleventh-largest globally if measured in terms of surface area.It is the southernmost, shallowest, and smallest by volume of the Great Lakes and therefore also has the shortest average water residence time. At its deepest point Lake Erie is 210 feet (64 metres) deep. 
Situated on the International Boundary between Canada and the United States, Lake Erie&#8217;s northern shore is the Canadian province of Ontario, specifically the Ontario Peninsula, with the U.S. states of Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York on its western, southern, and eastern shores. These jurisdictions divide the surface area of the lake with water boundaries. 
The lake was named by the Erie people, a Native American people who lived along its southern shore. The tribal name &#8220;erie&#8221; is a shortened form of the Iroquoian word erielhonan, meaning long tail
&#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Image Credit: <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a>

A frozen Lake Erie in February

Aqua Earth Observing Satellite

This beautiful photo gallery contains 50 incredible images of Earth from Space. These images were taken by astronauts onboard the International Space Station, as well as by a multitude of NASA satellites orbiting the earth.

Today’s Image of the Day comes thanks to the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=90654&amp;eocn=home&amp;eoci=iotd_readmore">NASA Earth Observatory</a> and features a look at Super Typhoon Noru in the Pacific Ocean just south of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-blue-chrysanthemums-created/">Japan</a>.
This image was captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite on July 31, 2017. 
At the time the photo was taken, Typhoon Noru was located just 250 kilometers south of Iwo Jima. Maximum sustained winds hit 150 miles per hour.
The storm briefly became a category 5 on July 30, before being downgraded to a category 4 one day later.
&#8211;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Source: <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=90654&amp;eocn=home&amp;eoci=iotd_readmore">NASA Earth Observatory</a>

Super Typhoon Noru in the Pacific Ocean

Incredible Images of Earth from Space

Photos from the International Space Station are found in this awesome Earth.com image gallery. Flat-earthers won't agree, but these incredible photos of the Earth were taken by astronauts onboard the International Space Station. The International Space Station is a modular space station in low Earth orbit.

Northern Italy from the space station is seen here in this Image of the Day from the <a href="http://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> (ESA). The view includes the top half of the Italian Peninsula, along with <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/wildfires-burn-northern-corsica/">Corsica</a> and Sardinia off the coast. This image was captured by ESA astronaut Paolo Nespoli on his third and final mission to the Space Station.

Northern Italy from the Space Station

Photos from the International Space Station

When we look around, it's not difficult to see the myriad ways nature contributes to our existence. The value of nature, though, goes far beyond what meets the eye - offering solutions with benefits that are often overlooked.



That's the extraordinary revelation from a group of researchers at the University of Oxford. The experts examined the economic ramifications of nature-based solutions (NbS) and what they discovered is like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-based-solutions">Nature-based solutions</h2>



The researchers found that adopting nature-based solutions could help local economies flourish by boosting agricultural yields and creating job opportunities. It's a secret formula: the more we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-must-live-in-harmony-with-nature-to-create-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work with nature</a>, the more prosperity we unlock.



But there's an added bonus. Nature-based solutions don't just lead to a surge in wealth and jobs. They can also pave the way for "win-win" situations, such as increased income and job creation, while simultaneously promoting biodiversity and supporting climate adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revving-up-local-economies">Revving up local economies </h2>



The study cites several compelling instances of how NbS has been a game-changer. One example is the Working for Water (WfW) program in South Africa. 



This initiative successfully rid over 1 million hectares of land of invasive species while providing employment for more than 20,000 people. 



Similarly, a coastal restoration project in the United States ended up creating 17 jobs for every million dollars spent.



"The evidence also shows NbS can be deployed with speed and flexibility in areas where they are needed the most, like rural communities that are often neglected by other investment approaches," noted Alex Chausson, lead author of the study.



Chausson, a specialist in nature-based solutions at WWF-UK and a research associate at Oxford's Nature-Based Solutions Initiative (NbSI), further emphasized the significance of these solutions in revving up local economies and aiding recovery in the aftermath of crises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-meets-the-eye">More than meets the eye</h2>



"Nature's value is often overlooked in accounting frameworks, yet our study highlights its tremendous economic benefits," said Nathalie Seddon, a professor of biodiversity at the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>



"At a time when global systems are under strain and the planet is warming, nature-based solutions offer a vital opportunity to boost the resilience of ecosystems - and the economies that depend on them. However, our study sheds light on its tremendous economic benefits."



Despite these advantages, the researchers identified several obstacles standing in the way of NbS implementation. 



These obstacles include siloed governmental decision-making, widespread misconceptions that pro-environmental policies can harm business, and scant reporting on the broader impacts of NbS projects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-as-a-solution-for-broader-impact">Nature as a solution for broader impact</h2>



"Right now, when a government makes an investment in nature, all too often they are failing to look at the wider impact that investment is having," explained Chausson.



"The immediate impact of restored woodland on biodiversity might be monitored, for example, but the broader benefits of the project on jobs or the resilience of the local community to climate change will not be. If these aspects are considered, it will lead to better policy decisions."



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



Dr. Brian O'Callaghan, co-author of the study and project manager at the University of Oxford, agrees that well thought out investments in nature can create jobs, spur high economic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-how-and-when-humans-and-mammals-will-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productivity</a>, and enhance resilience, offering a robust response to economic shocks.



However, he recommends caution to ensure key stakeholders are not left behind and to avoid any unforeseen negative externalities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-based-solutions-are-essential">Nature based solutions are essential</h2>



The crucial factor, according to study co-author Alison Smith, is following best practice standards for NbS to ensure benefits are delivered in practice.



"We found that&nbsp;community involvement&nbsp;in NbS design and delivery was a key factor for making sure that benefits are distributed fairly, and helping to avoid trade-offs," said Smith.



"Integrating traditional, local and&nbsp;scientific knowledge&nbsp;can also really help to improve the outcomes of NbS for both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-the-critical-role-of-nature-in-human-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> and people."



The conclusion? Nature-based solutions are not just beneficial; they are essential. And the road to prosperity may well be paved with natural wonders. .



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000281" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Climate</a>.



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Nature-based solutions can transform local economies

When we look around, it's not difficult to see the...

Crows are more than just black-feathered figures cawing from treetops; they are masters of memory and grudges, with cognitive abilities that defy our expectations. 



While we often admire birds for their bright plumage and lilting songs, there is a deeper layer to their behavior that remains unseen. 



Birds are more intelligent than most people realize, especially when it comes to recalling those who pose a threat.



Recent research has illuminated this startling dimension of avian behavior, revealing that crows - members of the avian elite - can hold grudges for up to 17 years.



This discovery showcases the profound capacity of the crows' memories. The study also sheds light on the social transmission of knowledge about threats within bird communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-avian-intelligence">Unmasking avian intelligence</h2>



The research project, led by experts at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, was launched in 2006. Professor John Marzluff, an environmental scientist, initiated the study by donning a fearsome mask and temporarily trapping seven crows. He identified them with leg rings before their safe release.



In subsequent years, the professor and his assistants sporadically wore the same mask - strolling the university campus while feeding the resident crows.



Marzluff recalled an incident while wearing the mask when 47 out of 53 crows he encountered vehemently scolded him.



This was a substantial increase from the original seven crows that were captured, suggesting that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> could recognize threatening humans and pass on this knowledge to their kin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sound-of-silence">The sound of silence</h2>



The climax of this fascinating study came in 2013 when the number of aggressive caws reached their peak, only to gradually decrease. 



By September 2023 - 17 years since the experiment began - not a single scolding crow was heard on one of Marzluff's masked walks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mask-mystery">Unraveling the mask mystery</h2>



Another intriguing facet of the study involved the use of a "neutral" mask, bearing the likeness of Dick Cheney, who was the vice president of the United States at the time.



Those sporting the Cheney mask fed the crows without causing them any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-years-fireworks-send-millions-of-birds-on-erratic-flights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distress</a>, and were subsequently spared of avian wrath.



As the research progressed, unknowing volunteers were roped in to wearing the masks, ignorant of the "dangerous" or "neutral" categorization by the crows.



One such volunteer found himself at the center of an avian uproar, confirming the crows' skill in discerning and remembering threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dive-bombing-attacks-by-crows">Dive-bombing attacks by crows</h2>



A report published in Mail Online shares some other instances of crows with a grudge. In Dulwich, a posh London suburb, residents reported instances of crows executing dive-bombing attacks.



One resident, Alison Frean, shared her harrowing experience, revealing that she had been targeted by crows on three separate occasions when trying to exit her car.



This had a profound impact on the residents, as they chose to stay indoors, attempting to avoid any crow confrontations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intelligence-of-crows">Intelligence of crows</h2>



This startling avian intelligence isn't confined to recognizing threats and holding grudges. Prior research indicates that crows possess the talent to devise tools and even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crows-count-out-loud-just-like-toddlers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">count</a> up to four. 



The study from the University of Washington undeniably contributes to affirming the crows' place in the intelligence hierarchy among birds. 



Crows, it appears, are creatures of memory, holding on to grudges and recalling threats even after a lengthy span of 17 years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-dynamics-of-crow-behavior">Social dynamics of crow behavior</h2>



Beyond their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-chickadees-have-an-extraordinary-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impressive memory</a> and intelligence, crows exhibit complex social structures that further highlight their cognitive sophistication. 



Studies have shown that crows live in tight-knit communities and communicate with each other through a variety of calls and body language. 



This communication is not limited to warnings about potential threats; crows have been observed sharing information about food sources and even forming alliances to fend off predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-and-cultural-transmission">Animals and cultural transmission </h2>



One of the most remarkable aspects of crow behavior is their ability to teach one another. When a crow learns to associate a specific individual or object with danger, it can relay this information to others in its community, spreading awareness rapidly. 



Communal learning helps ensure that knowledge of potential threats is preserved and passed down, allowing even young crows to recognize dangers without firsthand experience.



This intricate network of social interactions places crows among the few non-human animals capable of cultural transmission - passing knowledge from one generation to the next.



It is no surprise that these birds are revered in many cultures, often viewed as symbols of intelligence and adaptability.



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Crows hold grudges for up to 17 years

Crows are more than just black-feathered figures cawing from treetops;...

Amid today’s climate crisis, ancient climate records may hold valuable lessons for our future. By looking into our distant past, we can unlock insights that help address current environmental challenges more effectively.



Although our understanding of Earth millions of years ago remains incomplete, recent research has unveiled a surprising richness in ancient biodiversity, showing how ecosystems once adapted to warmer conditions. 



These findings not only deepen our grasp of past climates but also provide a unique perspective on potential future scenarios as global temperatures continue to rise. 



A long-term study now offers a detailed glimpse into an ancient ecosystem when our planet was significantly warmer than it is today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-travel-to-the-quebrada-honda-basin">Time travel to the Quebrada Honda basin</h2>



Over a decade and a half, a global team from <a href="https://case.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Case Western Reserve University</a> studied an archaeological site in Bolivia-Quebrada Honda Basin (QHB).



Situated in the Andes, this area offers us a glimpse into a time period from 13 million years ago, during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-site-in-australia-indicates-abundant-life-during-the-miocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miocene Epoch</a> - a time when Earth's climate recovered from the previous era's cooling, causing a surge in global temperatures and mammal biodiversity.



During the Miocene epoch, the Earth was warmer by 3-4 degrees Celsius compared to today. Drawing parallels between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-sea-creatures-built-ecosystems-that-diversified-ocean-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient ecosystems</a> and our current climate change predicament can enlighten us about possible future scenarios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-climate-clues-for-a-sustainable-future">Ancient climate clues for a sustainable future</h2>



Darin Croft, a professor of anatomy at Case Western Reserve's School of Medicine, and the team leader of the QHB research, believes that ancient sites such as QHB are instrumental in calibrating climate models. 



"Our understanding of climate change is based on models, and those models are based on information from the past. We are getting into uncharted territory in terms of climate, and you have to go deeper in time to get conditions that are similar," said Professor Croft.



Initially, the QHB site was lower than its current altitude of 11,500 feet (3,500 meters). However, the exact elevation during the Miocene epoch has been hotly debated among scientists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-climate-and-rich-biodiversity">Ancient climate and rich biodiversity </h2>



The research team discovered various types of fossils at the QHB site, ranging from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammal-evolution-kicked-off-with-daring-experiments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammal</a> bones and teeth, plant remains, ancient soils, and even the tracks of insects and other invertebrates. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-impact-cold-blooded-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cold-blooded</a> animals - including a giant tortoise, a side-necked turtle, and a large snake - suggest that QHB's elevation during their existence was less than 1,000 meters, based on the current habitats of closely related species.



The researchers determined that the QHB was a dry forest or a wooded savanna with palms and bamboo, both of which thrive at lower altitudes. This ecosystem shared no parallels with any modern landscapes.



Caroline Strömberg, a biology professor at the University of Washington, examined fossilized phytoliths - microscopic silica particles found in plant cell walls, which are characteristic of the vegetation types they're from.



She compared these with those found in present vegetation to identify the mix of plants at the QHB site.



"Magnifying" the past, the team even discovered 13 previously unknown mammal species, including marsupials, hoofed mammals, rodents, and armadillos. 



"Nature has a wide variety of body plans, often much greater than the limited variety we see today," said Russell Engelman, a Case Western Reserve biology graduate student.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-long-lasting-legacy">A long-lasting legacy</h2>



Between 2007 and 2017, Professor Croft led six international teams to the QHB site with the primary funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF).



Six years after the team's second NSF grant ended, the research findings continue to be relevant, inspiring follow-up data and publications.



"Field paleontology is a really good investment for the NSF, because the dividends far outweigh the costs," said Professor Croft. His team now seeks funding to study another Miocene site in Bolivia, of a similar age but over a longer time-period.



This lesson from the past highlights the importance of understanding our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-origins-of-earths-largest-igneous-rocks-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet's history</a> for the sake of our future.



Knowledge about ancient ecosystems can help us forge a path towards a sustainable tomorrow, as we grapple with the reality of climate change and our role in it.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031018224005078" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palaeogeography Palaeoclimatology Palaeoecology</a>.



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Looking to Earth's ancient climate to predict our future

Amid today’s climate crisis, ancient climate records may hold valuable...

Did you know that the processed food you enjoy every day might be fast forwarding your biological age? Everyday meals could be dictating the timeline of your life.



Unlike your birthday that tags another year to your age with each cake you cut, biological aging is a more intricate measure. It's an unforgiving countdown clock showing the health and vibrancy of your body's components - the organs, tissues, and systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultra-processed-foods-and-aging">Ultra-processed foods and aging</h2>



Wondering how your favorite <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snacks</a> come into the picture? A study by the <a href="https://www.lum.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LUM University</a> of Casamassima has revealed a chilling link between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and hastened biological aging.



Ultra-processed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/minimally-processed-foods-cost-more-offer-no-extra-nutrition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foods</a> seem like the villains in our story, right? But what do they look like? You'd be surprised to know that your daily diet might be full of them.



Ever heard of hydrogenated fats, maltodextrins, or hydrolyzed proteins? These are the unfamiliar substances that make up the ultra-processed foods we chow down without a second thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-aging-on-the-fast-track">Biological aging on the fast track</h2>



Digging into a vast pool of data involving 22,000 participants from the Moli-sani Study, the researchers found that consuming high amounts of ultra-processed foods fast-tracks biological aging.



Essentially, if your meals are full of these foods, your biological clock might be sprinting ahead of your chronological age.



"Our data show that a high consumption of ultra-processed foods not only has a negative impact on health in general, but could also accelerate aging itself, suggesting a connection that goes beyond the poor nutritional quality of these foods," said study first author Simona Esposito.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-foods-that-damage-human-health">Foods that damage human health</h2>



Marialaura Bonaccio, a nutritional epidemiologist at the Research Unit of Epidemiology and Prevention-IRCCS Neuromed, elaborated on why these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddlers-get-half-their-calories-from-ultra-processed-foods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foods can be harmful</a>.



She noted that the mechanisms through which ultra-processed foods can be harmful to human health are not yet entirely clear.



"Besides being nutritionally inadequate, being rich in sugars, salt and saturated or trans fats, these foods undergo intense industrial processing that actually alters their food matrix, with the consequent loss of nutrients and fiber," said Bonaccio.



"This can have important consequences for a series of physiological functions, including glucose metabolism, and the composition and functionality of the gut microbiota. Also, these products are often wrapped in plastic packaging, thus becoming vehicles of substances toxic to the body."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-dietary-directions">Rethinking dietary directions</h2>



Should this study be a wake-up call to reevaluate our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-like-soda-and-snacks-are-the-new-silent-killer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary</a> guidelines? 



“This study prompts us once again to reevaluate the current dietary recommendations, that should also include warnings on limiting the intake of ultra-processed food in our daily diet," said Professor Licia Iacoviello.



"Actually, some nutrient-dense packaged foods can be classified as ultra-processed, and this suggest the need of guiding people towards dietary choices that address also the degree of food processing”.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-processed-food-consumption">Cutting processed food consumption</h2>



Lowering our intake of ultra-processed foods means transforming not only our individual food habits but also the food environments around us. On a personal level, you can kick-start this change by choosing fresh, whole foods over processed alternatives. 



Cooking at home, planning your meals, and understanding food labels are simple steps towards healthier dietary choices. 



Public health policies and educational campaigns are also vital in shaping healthier habits on a larger scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-engaging-with-nature">Engaging with nature</h2>



Is there a counterbalance to the deleterious effects of ultra-processed foods? Engaging with nature might offer a path to mitigate the impact. 



Numerous studies emphasize the benefits of connecting with natural environments, such as parks and wilderness areas, which can lower stress levels and boost mental well-being.



Physical activities performed in nature, like hiking or gardening, further enhance physiological functions by promoting cardiovascular health and muscular strength. 



These benefits complement efforts to reduce the intake of ultra-processed foods, forming a robust defense against accelerated biological aging. Practicing mindful eating in natural settings might not only improve the quality of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-food-day-fighting-global-hunger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food choices</a> but also enhance overall life satisfaction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-on-ultra-processed-foods">Education on ultra-processed foods</h2>



To promote long-term changes in dietary habits, incorporating culinary education within school curricula becomes essential. Teaching young individuals about nutrition, meal preparation, and the importance of whole foods can lay the groundwork for healthier dietary patterns in adulthood. 



Educators can empower students with the skills needed to discern processed from whole foods, encouraging a more conscious approach to eating. Workshops, school gardens, and cooking classes can make learning about food both engaging and practical. 



This early intervention promises a future generation adept at making informed dietary decisions, reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods, and potentially mitigating the risks associated with biological aging.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000291652400813X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>. 



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Ultra-processed foods make our bodies age faster

Did you know that the processed food you enjoy every...

Human activities have left their imprints in the farthest reaches of our planet. In a recent study, experts revealed that some of the world's most isolated regions have not escaped the footprint of lead pollution.



Even the frosty wilderness of northwestern Tibet stands witness to the impacts of human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-lead-pollution">Origins of lead pollution</h2>



Examining the Guliya ice cap in northwestern Tibet, researchers detected the presence of lead. Who invited this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-alters-the-atmosphere-in-the-remote-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unexpected guest</a> here?



The answer lies in human activities that took place during and after the Industrial Revolution. Ice core samples dating back to this transitional time period lay bare the increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-ice-weakens-the-strength-of-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead levels</a>.



However, it was 1974 - the year when U.S. environmental regulations came into force – that marked a significant change in the sources of lead. Despite a drop in certain types of gasoline use, other lead sources remained prevalent.



"We measured the lead isotopic composition in a dusty ice core from the Guliya ice cap in northwest Tibet, from approximately 36 thousand years Before Present (Stone Age) to 2015, to determine the onset and sources of anthropogenic lead," explained the study authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-lead-pollution">Tracing lead pollution</h2>



Roxana Sierra-Hernandez was the lead author of the study and a senior research associate at <a href="https://www.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>’s Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center. 



Through her profound research, Sierra-Hernandez was able to trace anthropogenic lead right back to its origin and highlight the indelible mark they left on the region.



“Our lead isotope samples date to about 36,000 years ago, a time when we know that no civilizations at the time were using lead - meaning that much of what we found is natural,” Sierra-Hernandez said.



“Now with this work, we can pinpoint anthropogenic lead and when they left a mark in the region.”



Millions of people depend on Tibetan glaciers for their water, but these life-sustaining sources are at risk due to global warming. As glaciers retreat, they not only reduce water levels but also release the pollutants trapped within them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-sources-of-pollution">Hidden sources of pollution </h2>



“Depending on the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-pollution-is-stunting-tropical-forest-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> there is in the environment, it sinks into these glaciers,” Sierra-Hernandez said. “If a glacier melts, that source of pollution can leak into nearby rivers.”&nbsp;



While some lead originates from the Earth’s crust, a significant proportion is a result of human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-hazards-of-lead-exposure">Health hazards of lead Exposure</h2>



Long-term exposure to lead is detrimental to human health. Its adverse effects span from causing health anomalies like cancer and cardiovascular diseases to fertility issues. 



Hence, understanding the baseline of natural lead levels is pivotal for gauging humanity's environmental impact and preparing for its consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinguishing-pollution-sources">Distinguishing pollution sources</h2>



The instruments used in this study provided powerful insights which allowed the scientists to identify the type of pollution each lead trace came from.



The researchers were surprised to find that until 2007, Chinese gasoline was the primary lead source before its emissions decreased and those from coal and lead-zinc ores began to increase.



This evolution of lead sources during the last few centuries offers critical insights into how local pollution can be distributed globally. It is a challenge that goes beyond the capacity of any single country.



“Politicians need to be conscious enough to see that lead is still a concern and make policies that avoid emitting more of it, whether it’s from sources of coal or gasoline,” said Sierra-Hernandez.



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



Lead isotopes can act as unique markers for tracking and investigating pollution sources. This could open avenues for future studies looking to analyze and compare contaminated ice core samples from other glaciers globally. 



“Future studies can build on this study to compare modern and ancient pollution trends and better identify sources due to human activities,” Sierra-Hernandez said. “It’s important to do more lead isotope studies. It’s hard and it’s time-consuming, but there’s so much to learn.”



Such scientific pursuits are integral to untangling the complex web of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental issues</a> plaguing our planet. Understanding the environmental impacts of our past actions is a crucial step towards making necessary changes for a healthier, cleaner future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01724-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment.</a>



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Lead pollution has made its way to the top of the world

Human activities have left their imprints in the farthest reaches...

For years, baseball’s “magic” mud has been a thing of mystery. Its remarkable traits have never been formally examined or scientifically accounted for.



Although it may seem like an extra player on the field, the precise role of this mud in enhancing the performance of Major League Baseball (MLB) games has been more of a riddle than a fact. A new study finally sheds light on this compelling enigma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baseball-s-magic-mud">Baseball's magic mud</h2>



For the first time, scientists from the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science (Penn Engineering) and School of Arts &amp; Sciences (SAS) have investigated the dynamics of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/youth-sports-are-more-accessible-to-privileged-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">baseball</a> staple.



Their findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), reveal why the baseball mud is truly "magical."



"It spreads like a skin cream and grips like sandpaper," said Shravan Pradeep, the primary author of the paper and a dedicated researcher in the labs of Professor Douglas J. Jerolmack and Professor Paulo Arratia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-baseball-s-magic-mud">Origins of baseball's magic mud</h2>



The magic mud, applied by each team’s equipment manager to every game ball in the MLB, is harvested by the Bintliff family in an undisclosed location in South Jersey. 



This ritual has been repeated for generations, a guarded secret and cherished tradition in the world of baseball.



In 2019, the research group was prompted by sportswriter Matthew Gutierrez to explore the composition and flow characteristics of the mud. Though they were able to provide a quick analysis, it did not live up to the standards of scientific proof, admits Professor Jerolmack.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-superstition-or-science">Superstition or science?</h2>



Plenty of articles and reports have cited the alleged effects of the magic mud. In interviews with everyone from MLB players to the Bintliffs themselves, people have gushed about the mud.



But the scientific community did not have any empirical evidence to back these claims. The burning question remained: Is the use of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-dunes-hold-a-record-of-fire-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mud</a> mere superstition or is there a genuine scientific rationale behind it?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigation-of-baseball-s-magic-mud">Investigation of baseball's magic mud</h2>



This gap in knowledge prompted Professor Pradeep to devise a triple-threat scientific investigation into baseball's magic mud. He set up three experiments to measure its spreadability, stickiness, and its effect on baseballs' friction against fingertips.



The team had to go to great lengths, even inventing new experimental setups, to sufficiently mimic the properties of human fingers and accurately capture the mud's behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-verdict-magic-mud-works">The verdict: Magic mud works</h2>



The artificial skin and the oil they used simulated natural finger conditions, helping them align the tests as closely as possible to real-life scenarios. 



All of these efforts paid off when their study confirmed what MLB players have been professing all along: the magic mud works, and it's not just a superstition akin to playoff beards and rally caps.



This study has also debunked the idea of replacing the magic mud with synthetic lubricants - a concept that was previously explored by the MLB.



The original mud’s unique properties have so far proven to be irreplaceable. The researchers suggest sticking with the natural, green, and sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-and-dust-storms-have-become-unpredictable-and-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mud</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-touch-of-sustainability">Touch of sustainability</h2>



Despite this study focusing on baseball, the implications of the findings extend much further. The research opens up possibilities in the sustainable use of natural materials as lubricants.



The study serves as a window for us to appreciate how the natural world offers some invaluable properties that are hard to recreate from scratch.



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



The researchers extend their gratitude towards the various agencies that supported their work. 



These agencies include the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>), NASA, Army Research Office, Penn Center for Soft and Living Matter, the University of Pennsylvania’s Singh Center for Nanotechnology, and others.



"We found that the mud contains just the right mixture of clay and water to uniformly coat the baseballs with an adhesive residue, and just enough sand grains to enhance friction," wrote the study authors.



"Understanding these remarkable properties may expand the use of sustainable natural materials for lubrication and gripping applications."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413514121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Not just superstition: Baseball's 'magic mud' actually works

For years, baseball’s “magic” mud has been a thing of...

Do you think you know your own body well? As it turns out, we might not know ourselves as intimately as we may think. Humans consistently underestimate how far many of our body parts can bend.



Yes, our brains don't seem to accurately gauge our body's movement limits. The mind-boggling details of this study are brought to you by Dr. Artur Pilacinski, a neuroscientist at Ruhr University Bochum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mind-blowing-body-bending">Mind-blowing body bending</h2>



Now, let's delve into the heart of the matter. The fundamental concept at play here is the 'body schema' - our brain's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental representation</a> of our bodily self. 



“Previous studies by other groups have already shown that people have a distorted body schema,” explains Pilacinski. 



“For example, they systematically underestimate the weight or size of their hands. We were interested in whether there is a similar bias for body movements.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wrist-movements">Wrist movements</h2>



Dr. Pilacinski, along with Antoine Vandenberghe, Gabriella Andrietta, and Professor Gilles Vannuscorps, conducted an intriguing experiment. The team asked 84 participants to anticipate how far they could move their hand in various directions. 



This estimation involved wrist movements in four different ways: inwards and outwards towards the forearm and tilting the wrist towards the thumb or the pinkie.



The participants were divided into two groups. Some were asked to mentally visualize the hand movements and then indicate on an angular ruler the extent they thought they could move their hand. 



The others were shown various positions on the same ruler and had to decide if they could reach those positions by bending their wrists. The actual wrist mobility of all participants was then measured.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underestimated-reality-of-body-bending">Underestimated reality of body bending</h2>



After crunching the numbers, the researchers found something truly eye-opening. 



For three out of the four movements, there was a significant disparity between the assumed and actual mobility. On average, participants underguessed their movement scope by at least ten degrees. 



The only exception? The movement towards the thumb, whose difference between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-we-recognize-wisdom-in-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">presumption</a> and reality was too slight to be measured using their methodology.



Now, what could the reasons behind this discrepancy be? 



Dr. Pilacinski and his team suggest that this bias might serve as a protective mechanism - keeping us from overstretching and potentially harming our muscles, tendons, and ligaments. 



You have to appreciate the irony of this situation: our underestimate of body flexibility actually serves to keep us flexibly operational!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neuroscience-and-physical-therapy">Neuroscience and physical therapy</h2>



The findings from <a href="http://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ruhr University</a> and the <a href="https://uclouvain.be/en/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Université catholique de Louvain</a>, Belgium, offer profound implications for both neuroscience and the field of physical therapy.



Understanding the limitations of the body schema can contribute to enhancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-in-a-pill-is-now-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapeutic</a> practices aimed at improving body awareness and motor function. 



This body-underestimation bias indicates that individuals might benefit from exercises explicitly designed to recalibrate their body schema, potentially leading to improved mobility and injury prevention. 



Additionally, this research on bending of wrists could inform the development of better prosthetic devices and rehabilitation programs by accommodating for the innate bias in body perception. 



Such advancements could transform approaches to neurorehabilitation, aiding patients who have suffered strokes or other mobility-limiting conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



Dr. Pilacinski and his colleagues have opened new avenues for further exploration. 



Future research could examine whether this perceptual bias extends to other parts of the body or if it varies across different populations, such as athletes compared to non-athletes.



Also, exploring how neurological conditions might exacerbate or differ in these biases could yield valuable insights into their effects on movement and perception. 



Another intriguing direction would involve investigating the role of virtual and augmented reality in recalibrating body schema, providing innovative therapeutic techniques to correct underestimated perceptions. 



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



In sum, this new insight carries immense potential in realms like sports and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sitting-too-much-can-cause-premature-aging-even-if-you-exercise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rehabilitation</a>. As it turns out, our perceived limit is not our actual limit. 



Acknowledging this could drastically reshape how we envision our movement constraints and could eventually lead to improved mobility.



So the next time you extend your hand for a handshake or grab a cup of coffee, remember - you've got more flexibility than you think! 



Let's welcome this newfound fondness for our bodies and the subtle ways they work to safeguard us. Isn't it fascinating how we continue to learn more about ourselves, even from our bending wrists?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44271-024-00153-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Psychology.</a>



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Human bodies can bend way more than your brain let's you believe

Do you think you know your own body well? As...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...