This snake can be found in the southwestern United States and in Mexico, where it is to blame for the majority of fatal snakebites in both countries. Growing up to seven feet in length and weighing as much as 15 pounds, the western diamondback rattlesnake is the second largest venomous species of snakes in North America. Photo Credit: Audrey Snider-Bell

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

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 Space Agency...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132.



The nebula is located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).



The Southern Ring Nebula is one of the more famous examples of planetary nebulae. It is often studied for its beauty and valuable insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-power-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Stars power the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



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> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star is actually a less massive companion. The fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. 



The dimmer star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.



“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years.” 



“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence." 



ESA explained that the pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Key characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Southern Ring Nebula displays a complex structure with multiple layers of gas and dust. 



The outer shells of the nebula consist of hydrogen and other elements that were ejected from the dying star in previous stages of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>. These layers are illuminated by ultraviolet radiation from the central white dwarf.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coloration">Coloration</h3>



The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. 



These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-shape">Size and shape</h3>



The nebula spans about half a light-year in diameter. Its intricate, symmetrical structure provides valuable insights into the late stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>, especially the processes involved in the shedding of outer layers by dying stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotlights-from-the-bright-star">Spotlights from the bright star</h2>



ESA noted that hundreds of straight, brightly-lit lines pierce through the rings of gas and dust. “These ‘spotlights’ emanate from the bright star and stream through holes in the nebula like sunlight through gaps in a cloud."



“But not all of the starlight can escape. The density of the central region, set off in teal, is reflected by how transparent or opaque it is. Areas that are a deeper teal indicate that the gas and dust are denser - and light is unable to break free.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-image">More about the image</h2>



According to ESA, this is not only a crisp image of a planetary nebula - it also shows us objects in the vast distances of space behind it. The transparent red sections of the nebula are filled with distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-have-hearts-and-lungs-that-help-them-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.



“Look for the bright angled line at the upper left. It is not starlight - it is a faraway galaxy seen edge-on. Distant spirals, of many shapes and colors, also dot the scene. Those that are farthest away - or very dusty - are small and red,” said ESA.



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



Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. 



In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).



Vela is notable for containing several interesting astronomical features. One of its most prominent stars is Gamma Velorum, also known as Suhail or Regor, which is a bright, massive star system consisting of multiple stars.&nbsp;



The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. 



This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star that formed during the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.



Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 6744 - a large, barred spiral galaxy located approximately 30 million light-years away in the constellation Pavo.&nbsp;



The galaxy is often considered a close analog to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> due to its similar structure and size, spanning about 175,000 light-years across.&nbsp;



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



The image was captured by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid</a> space telescope. NGC 6744 stands out as a prime example of the galaxies currently forming the majority of stars in the nearby universe, making it an ideal subject for study with the Euclid mission.&nbsp;



Euclid’s extensive field-of-view allows it to capture the entire galaxy, showcasing not only its large-scale spiral structure but also revealing intricate details on smaller scales across various wavelengths. These details include feather-like dust lanes, known as “spurs,” emerging from the spiral arms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-6744">Star formation in NGC 6744</h2>



Euclid's observations enable scientists to count individual stars within NGC 6744, trace the distribution of stars and dust throughout the galaxy, and map the dust associated with the gas that fuels the development of new stars. 



<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> is a key process in the growth of galaxies, making these studies crucial for understanding galaxy evolution.



Researchers are utilizing Euclid’s data to explore the relationship between dust, gas, and star formation; to map the distribution of different stellar populations and identify regions of active star formation; and to investigate the underlying physics of spiral galaxy structures.&nbsp;



Spiral arms play a significant role in star formation by compressing gas, yet the precise mechanisms behind this process are still unclear. The presence of “spurs” along NGC 6744’s spiral arms offers valuable insights into the dynamics of star formation within these structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-new-dwarf-galaxies-nbsp">Discovering new dwarf galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, Euclid's dataset will help scientists identify clusters of old stars (globular clusters) and discover new dwarf galaxies around NGC 6744. Remarkably, Euclid has already identified a new dwarf satellite galaxy of NGC 6744 - a surprising discovery given that the galaxy has been studied extensively.



With Euclid’s detailed observations, scientists are gaining a deeper understanding of the processes shaping galaxies, providing essential clues to the evolution and appearance of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universes-expansion-rate-hubble-tension-puzzles-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-ngc-6744">More about NGC 6744</h2>



NGC 6744's disk is rich in star-forming regions and contains numerous young, bright blue stars. The galaxy's nucleus is slightly elongated and has a bar structure, which influences the motion of the stars and gas within it.&nbsp;



The spiral arms of NGC 6744 are well-defined and extend outward, wrapping around the central bar. Additionally, NGC 6744 has a smaller companion galaxy, NGC 6744A, which is interacting with it, adding to the complexity and interest of this distant system.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies">Spiral galaxies</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are one of the most common types of galaxies in the universe, characterized by their distinct, spiral-shaped structure.&nbsp;



The galaxies typically consist of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. This bulge is often surrounded by a halo of older stars.&nbsp;



The spiral arms, which extend from the central bulge, are regions of active star formation and are rich in young, hot stars, giving them a bright, bluish appearance.&nbsp;



These arms are also sites where interstellar gas and dust are concentrated, leading to the formation of new stars.&nbsp;



Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on the tightness of their spirals and the size of their central bulge, with classifications ranging from tightly wound arms in Sa galaxies to more loosely wound arms in Sc galaxies. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our home galaxy, is a prime example of a spiral galaxy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-pavo">The constellation Pavo</h2>



Pavo, which means "peacock" in Latin, is a constellation in the southern sky. It was named by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius in the late 16th century, based on observations made during the Dutch explorations of the southern hemisphere. 



Pavo is one of the 12 constellations created by Plancius from the records of explorers Pieter Dirkszoon Keyser and Frederick de Houtman. 



The constellation is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a peacock with a long, curved tail. Pavo is not visible from most of the northern hemisphere, but it can be seen from the southern hemisphere, particularly during the winter months.



The constellation contains several interesting celestial objects, including the star Peacock, also known as Alpha Pavonis, which is the brightest star in the constellation. This star is a blue-white subgiant located about 179 light-years from Earth.



Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA&nbsp;



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Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in the constellation Pavo

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Little Dumbbell Nebula, also known as Messier 76, located in the constellation Perseus 3,400 light-years away from Earth.



Astronomers captured this image of the Little Dumbbell Nebula to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope, a joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).



The snapshot provides not only a breathtaking view but also deep insights into the life cycle of <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> and the dynamic processes within nebulae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-messier-76">Understanding Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 is categorized as a planetary nebula - a term which refers to its round, planet-like appearance when viewed through early, low-power telescopes. 



However, the term is somewhat misleading as planetary nebulae have no connection to actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a>. 



Instead, they represent an expansive shell of luminous gases expelled by a dying red giant star, which subsequently collapses into a dense, hot white dwarf. 



This transformation marks the late stages of stellar evolution for medium to low-mass stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure-of-messier-76">Structure of Messier 76</h2>



The structure of Messier 76 is particularly notable. It includes a central ring, giving the appearance of a bar-like feature, with two distinct lobes emanating from either side. 



This formation is believed to be the result of materials ejected by the star during its red giant phase, possibly sculpted by interactions with a companion star. 



Although this binary companion is not visible in current Hubble images, its presence is inferred from the thick disk of dust and gas aligned with its orbital plane. 



The phenomenon of the companion star potentially being absorbed by the primary star, a process akin to stellar cannibalism, is a captivating aspect of the nebula's history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dynamic-environment-of-the-nebula">The dynamic environment of the nebula</h2>



At the core of the nebula, the primary star, now collapsing into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>, reaches extreme temperatures. This heat is estimated to be 120,000 degrees Celsius - about 24 times hotter than the surface of our Sun. 



This intensely hot remnant is visible as a small, bright point at the center of the nebula. Directly below this, another star can be seen; however, it is merely aligned with the nebula by chance and is not a part of it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-glow-of-messier-76">Powerful glow of Messier 76</h2>



The dynamics within Messier 76 are driven by powerful forces. The central disk seems to constrict the material, creating two lobes of gas escaping along the rotational axis of the star, perpendicular to the disk.&nbsp;



The lobes are propelled outward by a potent stellar wind, moving at a staggering two million miles per hour. This rapid movement is sufficient to travel the distance from Earth to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeless-mystery-solved-scientists-uncover-what-is-inside-the-moons-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> in just over seven minutes.&nbsp;



The collision of the fast-moving gas with older, slower-moving material ejected during the star’s red giant phase results in the stunning glowing effect seen in the nebula. 



The glow, ignited by the ultraviolet radiation from the white dwarf, is a spectacle of colors with red emanating from nitrogen and blue from oxygen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cosmic-moment-in-time">A cosmic moment in time</h2>



Despite its current brilliance, the existence of the Little Dumbbell Nebula is fleeting on a cosmological scale. It is expected to last only about 15,000 years - a mere moment in the lifespan of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-is-ripping-the-universe-apart-but-we-arent-sure-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>. 



This brief period highlights the transient nature of such cosmic phenomena, which, while short-lived, provide crucial insights into the mechanics of stellar evolution and the complex interactions within these celestial sculptures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-messier-76">More about Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 was discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1780. It was later cataloged by Charles Messier, who included it in his famous list of nebulous objects.



The nebula's faintness and small size require a good telescope to be observed effectively, with larger telescopes able to reveal more of its fine details and structure.



Studying Messier 76 helps astronomers understand the life cycle of stars and the processes that occur during the late stages of stellar evolution. 



The materials expelled by planetary nebulae like Messier 76 eventually contribute to the interstellar medium, from which new stars and planetary systems may form.



Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy I Zwicky 18, which was captured in remarkable detail by the James Webb Space Telescope.



I Zwicky 18 is a blue compact dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> located approximately 59 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-i-zwicky-18">Star formation in I Zwicky 18</h2>



The galaxy is notable for its relatively young appearance and the fact that it contains very few heavy elements. These characteristics indicate that it has experienced little <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> compared to other galaxies of similar age.



“The galaxy was first identified by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky in the 1930’s and resides roughly 59 million light-years from Earth,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. “This galaxy has gone through several sudden bursts of star formation.”&nbsp;



According to ESA, I Zwicky 18 is typical of the kinds of galaxies that inhabited the early universe and is much smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-star-j1249-36-spotted-trying-to-escape-our-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-telescope-image-of-the-galaxy">Webb telescope image of the galaxy</h2>



“Two major starburst regions are embedded in the heart of the galaxy. The wispy brown filaments surrounding the central starburst region are bubbles of gas that have been heated by stellar winds and intense ultraviolet radiation unleashed by hot, young stars,” noted ESA.



“A companion galaxy resides nearby to the dwarf galaxy, which can be seen at the bottom of the wider-field image. The companion may be interacting with the dwarf galaxy and may have triggered that galaxy's recent star formation.”&nbsp;



ESA explained that the “orange blobs” surrounding the galaxy are the dim glow from ancient fully formed galaxies at much larger distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-i-zwicky-18">Key characteristics of I Zwicky 18</h2>



As previously mentioned, the galaxy has a very low abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, suggesting that it has not undergone significant stellar processing.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-stellar-population-nbsp">Young stellar population&nbsp;</h3>



Despite its old age, I Zwicky 18 contains many young, hot stars. This suggests that it might have experienced a burst of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> relatively recently in its history.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-medium-nbsp">Interstellar medium&nbsp;</h3>



The galaxy has a high density of gas, which is a prime ingredient for star formation. This gas is mostly in the form of hydrogen.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-characteristics">Unusual characteristics</h3>



Its characteristics are more typical of primordial galaxies found in the early universe, making it a valuable object of study for understanding galaxy formation and evolution.



Ultimately, I Zwicky 18 provides insights into the conditions and processes that might have been prevalent in the early universe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycles-of-stars-and-dust">Life cycles of stars and dust</h3>



The image was captured as part of a Webb program to study the life cycle of dust in I Zw 18.&nbsp;



“Scientists are now building off of previous research with Hubble obtained at optical wavelengths, studying individual dusty stars in detail with Webb’s equivalent spatial resolution and sensitivity at infrared wavelengths.”&nbsp;



ESA noted that this galaxy is of particular interest as its content of elements heavier than helium is one of the lowest of all known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in the local universe.&nbsp;



“Such conditions are thought to be similar to those in some of the first star-forming galaxies at high redshift, so the Webb study of I Zw 18 should shed light on the life-cycle of stars and dust in the early universe.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-ursa-major">The constellation Ursa Major </h2>



Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most prominent and easily recognizable constellations in the northern sky. 



Its name, "Ursa Major," means "Great Bear" in Latin, and it has been a significant part of various mythologies and star lore across cultures for thousands of years. 



One of the most famous asterisms within Ursa Major is the Big Dipper, a group of seven bright stars that form a shape resembling a ladle or dipper. The Big Dipper is often used as a navigation tool because it points to Polaris, the North Star, located in the nearby constellation Ursa Minor.



Ursa Major is best viewed in the northern hemisphere and is circumpolar, meaning it is visible year-round for much of the Northern Hemisphere. Its position changes with the seasons, rotating around Polaris, the North Star.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-webb-nbsp-nbsp">The power of Webb&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



The same cluster was featured as the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;



According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. 



"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc1333">Webb’s view of NGC1333</h2>



ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC1333 cloud.&nbsp;



“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."



The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-sun">Formation of the Sun</h2>



“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.



Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.



Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <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> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.



Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. 



These disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation.&nbsp;



These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ngc-1333">Significance of NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy, still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;



In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;



It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;



These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.



The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the colors of fall across the continent of Europe. 



“This compilation of images, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission, showcases the characteristic hues of autumn in different European countries,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-2/Earth_from_Space_Autumn_foliage_across_Europe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“Autumn foliage is one of nature's most stunning displays, turning deciduous forests into landscapes painted with vibrant colors. As temperatures cool and daylight shortens, deciduous trees cease producing chlorophyll so that leaves turn yellow, orange and red – the colors of autumn.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-of-fall-in-europe-nbsp">Colors of fall in Europe&nbsp;</h2>



The colors of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fall-will-be-unusually-warm-across-most-us-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fall</a> vary across regions due to the diversity of tree species and the climate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northern-europe">Northern Europe</h3>



In countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, vibrant yellows and golds dominate, especially in forests of birch and aspen. Deep red hues come from the native rowan and some types of maple.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-western-and-central-europe">Western and Central Europe</h3>



The landscapes of France, Germany, and Switzerland showcase golden and copper tones. Beech, oak, and chestnut trees create waves of yellow and bronze, while occasional maples provide shades of bright red.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eastern-europe">Eastern Europe</h3>



Countries like Poland, Ukraine, and Hungary experience a full mix of autumn colors, with maple and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-oak-trees-isoprene-emissions-air-pollution-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oak forests</a> turning red and orange. The Carpathian Mountains are especially vibrant during this season.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-southern-europe">Southern Europe</h3>



In Mediterranean areas like Italy, Spain, and Greece, fall colors are more subtle but still beautiful. Although many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> are evergreen, higher elevations display patches of golden-yellow and rusty tones from poplars, chestnuts, and maples.



The European fall color season typically peaks in October, depending on altitude and latitude. The dramatic landscapes of Europe - mountains, lakes, and historic villages - further enhance the stunning display of autumn colors across the continent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-the-leaves-change-colors">Why do the leaves change colors?</h2>



Leaves change color in the fall due to changes in daylight, temperature, and the chemical processes within the leaves.&nbsp;



During spring and summer, leaves are green because they contain chlorophyll, a pigment that allows them to absorb sunlight and produce food through photosynthesis.&nbsp;



However, as the days get shorter and temperatures drop in the fall, trees begin preparing for winter by slowing down their food production.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decrease-in-chlorophyll">Decrease in chlorophyll</h3>



With less sunlight, trees stop producing chlorophyll, which is highly sensitive to light and temperature. As chlorophyll breaks down, the green color fades, revealing other pigments in the leaves.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-pigments-emerge-nbsp">Other pigments emerge&nbsp;</h3>



There are always other pigments in the leaves, but they’re hidden by the green chlorophyll during the growing season. In fall, these pigments become visible.



Carotenoids produce yellow and orange hues, which we see in trees like birch, beech, and aspen.



Anthocyanins are pigments that create reds, purples, and deep oranges. They form in the fall when sugars get trapped in the leaves. Trees like maple and sumac are known for their red and purple leaves.



Tannins produce brown colors and are especially visible in oaks.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-and-climate-influence">Weather and climate influence</h3>



Temperature, sunlight, and soil moisture also affect the intensity and duration of fall colors.&nbsp;



Sunny days and cool nights help produce more vibrant reds and purples. Wet or cloudy weather, on the other hand, can lead to more muted colors.



Ultimately, the color change is a part of the tree’s preparation for winter dormancy. By shedding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-discovered-in-plant-leaves/">leaves</a>, trees conserve water and energy, improving their chances of surviving the winter months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-the-fall-colors-affect-us">How do the fall colors affect us?</h2>



Fall colors can have a significant impact on us emotionally, mentally, and even physically. They provide us with a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and comfort.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-uplift-nbsp">Emotional uplift&nbsp;</h3>



The vibrant colors of fall can evoke positive emotions and improve our mood. Studies show that exposure to natural landscapes with diverse colors can reduce stress, enhance feelings of happiness, and promote a sense of well-being.



Nature’s changing colors have a calming effect on our minds, providing mental clarity and relaxation. The natural beauty of fall landscapes can encourage mindfulness, allowing us to be present and appreciate our surroundings, which is beneficial for mental health and focus.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-to-nature">Connection to nature</h3>



Autumn’s beauty encourages people to go outside, whether it’s hiking through colorful forests, driving along scenic routes, or simply taking a walk in the park.&nbsp;



This connection with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-walking-quantifiably-improves-brain-health-and-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> has benefits for physical health, improving immunity and reducing blood pressure, and it also strengthens our environmental appreciation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-reflection-nbsp">Seasonal reflection&nbsp;</h3>



The cycle of fall reminds us of change, letting go, and renewal. For many, fall is a time for introspection and resetting goals, as the season symbolizes transformation and the approach of a new chapter in life.



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Fall colors transform Europe's landscape 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, where snow has finally returned after a record-breaking absence.



The Japan Meteorological Agency officially confirmed the presence of snow on Mount Fuji's peak on Thursday. The previous day, the snow could not yet be confirmed due to clouds obstructing the view of the summit.



“The Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission captured this image of Mount Fuji's iconic snowcap on November 7, a day after snow was first spotted by the Japan Mereological Agency’s Shizuoka branch,” noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esa.int%2FESA_Multimedia%2FImages&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-fuji-with-no-snow">Mount Fuji with no snow</h2>



This year, Mount Fuji set a new <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fmount-fujis-snow-is-missing-for-first-time-in-130-years%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record</a> for the latest date without snowfall since records began in 1894. By the end of October, the iconic peak remained bare, surpassing the previous records of October 26, held in 2016 and 1955. 



The snow delay is attributed to record-breaking high temperatures in Japan throughout the summer and early fall.&nbsp;



The heat was influenced by factors such as El Niño, unusually warm <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fpacific-ocean-temperatures-highest-in-650-years-greatly-harming-coral-reefs%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a>, and shifts in the jet stream - all of which contributed to sustained warmth and hindered the usual cooling needed for snowfall​​​​​​.



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



This unusual absence of snow on Mount Fuji has raised concerns about broader impacts of climate change. Snow on Mount Fuji contributes to regional freshwater supplies, suggesting potential downstream effects on water availability if these trends continue.&nbsp;



Scientists are closely studying these seasonal shifts to understand their long-term environmental implications​​​​.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-mount-fuji-s-snow">Cultural significance of Mount Fuji's snow</h2>



Snow on Mount Fuji holds deep cultural significance for Japan, symbolizing purity, beauty, and spiritual presence. In Japanese art and literature, the snow-capped Mount Fuji is celebrated as a representation of the changing seasons, serenity, and natural perfection. 



For centuries, it has inspired countless artists, including Edo-period woodblock masters like Hokusai, whose famous series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji highlights the mountain's snowy peak as a central theme.



The snow on Mount Fuji also holds spiritual significance. Many Japanese people view the mountain as sacred and associate its snow-covered peak with divine purity and tranquility. 



Shinto and Buddhist pilgrims have historically considered Fuji’s summit a place of spiritual connection, and its snowy cap enhances this reverence by emphasizing the mountain’s sublime, almost otherworldly beauty​​​​.



Mount Fuji and its snow cap have become a national symbol of resilience and identity, even influencing aspects of Japanese aesthetics. The snow represents harmony with nature and the cyclical beauty of life, which are core themes in Japanese cultural philosophy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasons-are-changing-with-the-climate">Seasons are changing with the climate</h2>



<a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fextreme-ocean-heating-signals-alarm-for-a-3c-warmer-world%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is shifting the timing and length of seasons worldwide. Rising global temperatures have led to significant changes in seasonal patterns, affecting when plants bloom, animals migrate, and weather patterns stabilize.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-shifts">Temperature shifts</h3>



Warmer global temperatures have contributed to longer and more intense <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fsummers-seasons-warm-faster-than-winters-earths-climate-history%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summers</a>. For instance, spring arrives earlier in many parts of the world, with evidence showing that plants are budding and blooming sooner than they did several decades ago​​.&nbsp;



This extended warmth shortens winter and affects the typical cycles that ecosystems depend on.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-ecosystems">Impact on ecosystems</h3>



The shift in seasons can disrupt ecosystems that have evolved to rely on consistent seasonal changes.&nbsp;



For example, migratory <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fbirds-produce-fewer-offspring-as-spring-arrives-earlier-across-our-warming-world%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> often time their movements based on day length and food availability. If the seasons shift and food sources appear or disappear earlier than usual, these birds may struggle to adapt. 



Similarly, in agricultural systems, unpredictable frost dates and changing rainy seasons can reduce crop yields and impact food security​​​​.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-cycles-and-weather-patterns">Water cycles and weather patterns</h3>



Seasonal shifts also affect water availability. Warmer winters with less snow impact water supplies, especially in regions dependent on snowpack for spring and summer water flow. This can lead to drier conditions and exacerbate droughts, as seen in many parts of North America and Asia​​.



Ultimately, the seasonal shifts driven by climate change have far-reaching effects on natural ecosystems, agriculture, and human infrastructure - making climate adaptation an urgent priority.



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Snow returns to Mount Fuji after record absence 

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

Our world is changing. The ocean is on the rise, threatening to disrupt the lives of coastal communities.



As the water inches its way into people's lives, various agencies and organizations are making strides to prepare for this new reality. Right in the heart of these efforts is NASA, offering critical insights on rising sea levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-level-data-is-accessible-to-the-public">Sea-level data is accessible to the public</h2>



NASA's extensive global data is now accessible to the public in the brand-new sea level section of the Earth Information Center. 



This comprehensive global sea level <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">change</a> website is the product of a collaboration between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the U.S. Department of Defense, the World Bank, the U.S. Department of State, and the UN Development Programme.



The site presents comprehensive projections of expected sea level rise through the year 2150 for coastlines around the globe. It also provides estimates of anticipated flooding for coastal communities or regions over the coming three decades. 



The projections draw on diverse sources such as data gathered by NASA and its collaborators, computer models of ice sheets and the ocean, the latest sea level assessment from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and more.



"NASA innovates for the benefit of humanity. Our cutting-edge instruments and data-driven information tools help communities and organizations respond to natural hazards and extreme weather, and inform critical coastal infrastructure planning decisions,” said Karen St. Germain, the director of the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-sea-level-changes">Global sea level changes</h2>



Major global organizations like the World Bank are set to utilize the valuable data from the global sea level change site for creating Climate Risk Profiles for countries particularly susceptible to sea level <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-sea-levels-are-rising-faster-than-anywhere-in-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rise</a>.



The Defense Department will consistently feed sea level rise data into its plans to help predict - and possibly avoid - hazards caused to its facilities by rising oceans.



Similarly, the State Department will use the data for a range of activities, from disaster preparedness to long-term adaptation planning, and supporting partners globally in related efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moment-of-truth-in-our-climate-fight">Moment of truth in our climate fight</h2>



Assistant Secretary-General Selwin Hart, special adviser to the United Nations secretary-general on climate action and just transition, stresses the significance of the current period. 



“We are at a moment of truth in our fight against the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. The science is unequivocal and must serve as the bedrock upon which decision-making is built," said Hart.



"With many communities around the world already facing severe impacts from sea-level rise, this new resource provides a vital tool to help them protect lives and livelihoods."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-faster-than-ever">Rising faster than ever</h2>



NASA-led data has revealed that between 1970 and 2023, 96% of countries with coastlines have experienced sea level rise. Furthermore, the rate of this global rise has doubled, from 0.08 inches (0.21 centimeters) per year in 1993 to about 0.18 inches (0.45 centimeters) per year in 2023.



As the rate of sea level rise increases, millions could face the linked effects earlier than anticipated, including larger storm surges, more saltwater intrusion into groundwater, and additional high-tide flood days.



“This new platform shows the timing of future floods and the magnitude of rising waters in all coastal countries worldwide,” said Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, director of the ocean physics program at NASA Headquarters in Washington.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-data-for-unclear-times">Clear data for unclear times</h2>



Earlier data released this year shows that Pacific Island nations will face at least 6 inches (15 centimeters) of sea level rise over the next 30 years. Moreover, the number of high-tide flood days will increase significantly for nearly all Pacific Island nations by the 2050s.



Ben Hamlington is a sea level researcher at NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California and head of the agency’s sea level change science team.



“The data is clear: Sea levels are rising around the world, and they’re rising faster and faster. Having the best information to make decisions about how to plan for rising seas is more crucial than ever,” concluded Hamlington.



While the future remains uncertain, one thing stays clear - the importance of accurate, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reliable data</a> to guide our decisions. 



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Sea level warnings: What coastal cities must prepare for

Our world is changing. The ocean is on the rise,...

The lifeline of our oceans is in danger. A recent study warns us about the impacts of global warming on marine life, with plankton populations at significant risk. 



The study points out a straightforward, yet frequently undervalued reality that if we don't act quickly, vast amounts of marine life could be on the brink of extinction within this century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plankton-struggle-with-rapid-warming">Plankton struggle with rapid warming</h2>



The research examines the world of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny ocean dwellers</a> known as plankton, which are more important than one might think. 



For the first time, the researchers compared how these tiny creatures responded to significant global warming in the past with how they might react to similar conditions anticipated by the end of our century.



The revelations were rather disturbing. It seems that plankton are struggling to keep up with the current rate of temperature increases. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plankton-cannot-adapt-quickly-enough">Plankton cannot adapt quickly enough</h2>



Dr Rui Ying, the lead author of the study, led this project during his PhD work in marine ecology at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. 



“The results are alarming as, even with the more conservative climate projections of a 2°C increase, it is clear plankton cannot adjust quickly enough to match the much faster rate of warming which we’re experiencing now and looks set to continue," said Dr. Ying.



“Plankton are the lifeblood of the oceans, supporting the marine food web and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-plankton-play-a-big-role-in-the-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a>. If their existence is endangered, it will present an unprecedented threat that would disrupt the whole marine ecosystem and have devastating, wide-reaching consequences for marine life and also human food supplies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-future-by-looking-at-the-past">Predicting the future by looking at the past</h2>



To arrive at these conclusions, the scientists developed a new model to analyze how plankton behaved 21,000 years ago, during the last Ice Age.



They compared this with how the plankton might behave under future climate conditions. This approach, which focused on a specific plankton group that has survived through the ages, provides unique insights and an impressive level of accuracy.



“The past is often considered key to understanding what the world could look like in the future. Geological records showed that plankton previously relocated away from the warmer oceans to survive," explained Dr Ying.



“But using the same model of ecology and climate, projections showed the current and future rate of warming was too great for this to be possible again, potentially wiping out the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-tiny-ocean-creatures-overlooked-critical-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precious organisms</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-issue-of-global-warming">Broader issue of global warming</h2>



This research brings attention to the broader issue of global warming and our collective responsibility to curb its effects on plankton and overall marine ecosystems.



The Paris Agreement was a worldwide commitment to keep the increase in global average temperatures well below 2°C (3.6°F) above pre-industrial levels and strive to limit the increase to 1.5°C (2.7°F).



However, a recent United Nations report indicates that the world may face as much as 3.1°C (5.6°F) warming if governments do not act more decisively to reduce carbon emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-global-climate-action">Need for global climate action</h2>



Study co-author Daniela Schmidt is a professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Bristol and a celebrated marine ecologist. She has led multiple Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>) reports and her insights are critical to understanding the climate crisis.



“This work emphasizes the great risks posed by the dramatically fast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-are-quickly-losing-ability-to-support-fish-due-to-plankton-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate and environmental changes</a> the world is now facing. With these worrying trends set to worsen, there will be very real consequences for our ecosystems and people’s livelihoods, including fishing communities," said Schmidt.



"So, the message is clear - all nations must collectively and individually step up efforts and measures to keep global warming to a minimum.”



With the ocean’s lifeblood under threat, it’s time to act. If tiny plankton are at risk, the entire marine world - and our food supply - could be, too.



The research on plankton tells us that it does not have to be this way - the world can still limit global warming. But in order for that to happen, every nation needs to step up and take action.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08029-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Plankton at risk: Global warming threatens the ocean's lifeline

The lifeline of our oceans is in danger. A recent...

Microplastics and nanoplastics have emerged as pressing global concerns, capturing significant scientific attention and driving advancements in nanotechnology that is aimed at addressing their pervasive presence in the environment.



These minute <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-thousands-of-nanoplastics-found-in-bottled-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a> infiltrate our air, water, and soil, and even make their way into the bodies of animals and humans.



Originating from everyday consumer products and the breakdown of larger plastic materials, they represent an unseen environmental foe with potentially far-reaching impacts on ecosystems and human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hidden-dangers-of-nanoplastics">The hidden dangers of nanoplastics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a>, defined as fragments smaller than 5 mm in diameter, are already recognized as a major issue.



However, nanoplastics, which are nearly a thousand times smaller, pose an even more insidious threat. 



These particles can bypass biological barriers and infiltrate the vital organs of living creatures. Alarmingly, recent research has even detected nanoplastics in the human brain.



Study senior author Henrique Eisi Toma is a professor in the Institute of Chemistry at the University of São Paulo (IQ-USP).



"Nanoparticles aren't visible to the naked eye or detectable using conventional microscopes, so they’re very hard to identify and remove from water treatment systems," said Professor Toma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanotechnology-solutions-for-plastic-pollution">Nanotechnology solutions for plastic pollution</h2>



Researchers at USP, with support from FAPESP, have developed a novel solution using nanotechnology.



The team, led by Professor Toma, created a low-cost method employing magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with polydopamine (PDA), a polymer derived from dopamine which is a neurotransmitter present in the human body.



These nanoparticles bind to micro- and nanoplastic waste, allowing for their removal through the application of a magnetic field.



“Polydopamine is a substance that mimics the adhesive properties of mussels, which cling very tenaciously to many surfaces," noted Toma. 



"It adheres firmly to fragments of plastic in water and enables the magnetic nanoparticles to capture them. This undesirable material can then be removed from the water with a magnet."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-striving-for-plastic-degradation">Striving for plastic degradation</h2>



The research team aims for more than just the removal of these particles; they are also exploring methods for sustainable degradation. 



By immobilizing lipase, an enzyme capable of breaking down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-can-break-down-pet-pollution-in-ocean-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polyethylene terephthalate</a> (PET), the team decomposes PET and other plastics into their basic components, such as terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol, which can be reused in the production of new plastics.



"Our goal isn't just to remove plastic from water but also to contribute to its recycling in a sustainable manner," Toma emphasized.



PET is a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollutants-from-fossil-fuels-are-embedded-in-coral-skeletons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutant</a> due to its prevalence in plastic bottles and other common items.



The degradation process developed by Toma's team breaks PET down into monomeric forms, enabling the reuse of these components in new manufacturing processes.



"Our study focused on PET, but other researchers can include other specific enzymes to process different plastics, such as polyamide or nylon, for example," he noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-complexities">Challenges and complexities</h2>



Addressing the micro- and nanoplastics problem is far from straightforward. 



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yale-scientists-are-turning-wood-into-high-quality-bioplastic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioplastics</a> offer a potential solution as they come from renewable sources, they too can fragment into micro- and nanoplastics before fully degrading.



"Being biocompatible, they’re even more insidious because they can interact more directly with our organisms and trigger biological reactions," Toma explained.



An additional concern raised by Professor Toma is the contamination of bottled mineral water. While mineral water is often valued for its taste and mineral content, it can contain higher levels of micro- and nanoplastics than treated tap water.



"Treated potable water undergoes processes such as filtration, coagulation and flotation to eliminate most residues, whereas mineral water, which is better in some ways - it’s lighter, contains more salts and tastes better, for example - isn't processed in any of these ways because that would destroy its properties," said Toma.



"If the environment from which it's collected is contaminated by bioplastics, these particles will reach the consumer."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-solutions-with-nanotechnology">Advancing solutions with nanotechnology</h2>



The scale of this environmental challenge demands continuous innovation and policy intervention. 



The nanotechnology developed by Toma and his colleagues represents a significant advancement, showcasing how science can address complex environmental issues. 



Professor Toma calls for persistent research efforts and urges public administrators to recognize and tackle the problem, stressing the need for collective action to safeguard the planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0968432824001392" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Micron</a>.



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How nanotechnology is fighting microplastic pollution

Microplastics and nanoplastics have emerged as pressing global concerns, capturing...

The era of wondering and wildly speculating may be drawing to a close, with researchers recently devising a new model they're calling the "formula for life." 



The experts hope this tool will calculate the chances of intelligent life existing in our universe and even predict the potential for alien life in future universes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-generation-of-intelligent-life">Next generation of intelligent life </h2>



According to this new calculation model, the likelihood of life beyond our galaxy sits at 27 percent, which may let down the 65 percent of American adults who firmly believe in extraterrestrial life.



Interestingly, the chances of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-aliens-sending-radio-signals-to-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intelligent life</a> existing within our own Milky Way are even lower - just 23 percent.



These estimates come from the concerted efforts of researchers at the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ed.ac.uk%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a> and the University of Genevieve. The study suggests that star formation and the evolution of large-scale planets might intertwine to quietly "form the next generation of intelligent life."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-energy-and-the-potential-for-alien-life">Dark energy and the potential for alien life</h2>



To understand the potential of other life forms, the team devised a theoretical model that leans heavily on the Drake Equation, developed in 1960. 



This well-known formula calculates the universe's expansion and has been used to research the existence of advanced civilizations in our galaxy.



The researchers emphasized that their calculations do not suggest a number of intelligent life forms but rather estimate the likelihood of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-oxygen-in-the-deep-sea-may-hold-clues-about-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">existence</a>.



Their estimation process takes into account dark energy, which comprises over two-thirds of the universe and fuels its expansion.



"Understanding dark energy and the impact on our universe is one of the biggest challenges in cosmology and fundamental physics," said lead researcher Dr. Daniele Sorini, affiliated with <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University</a>’s Institute for Computational Cosmology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-for-future-alien-life">Potential for future alien life</h2>



In addition to the probabilities of current extraterrestrial life, the researchers' model also accommodates for alien life forms that don't exist yet but could develop in the future. 



To do this, they calculated the amount of ordinary matter that combined to form stars across the universe's history, stretching back a staggering 13.8 billion years.



It seems the chances of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-connection-aliens-could-make-contact-by-2029/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intelligent life</a> appearing in universes beyond our own also hover at around 27 percent. 



"Surprisingly, we found that even a significantly higher dark energy density would still be compatible with life, suggesting we may not live in the most likely of universes," said Dr. Sorini.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-future-research">Implications for future research</h2>



The pioneering work of modeling the probability of intelligent life in other universes opens up numerous avenues for future research. Scientists are now challenged to refine these models further, grounding them in observations and experiments to reach more precise conclusions. 



Such work may involve advancing our understanding of dark matter and energy - components of the universe that remain elusive yet crucial to grasping the cosmic puzzle.



This pursuit could bridge the gap between theoretical physics and cosmology, bringing them closer within the realms of empirical science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interplay-of-gravity-and-alien-life">Interplay of gravity and alien life</h2>



Another intriguing factor in cosmic life creation is gravity's role. Gravity influences the formation of stars and galaxies, effectively setting the stage for potential habitats where life could develop. 



The extent of gravity's influence in these processes highlights its importance, not just in structural formation, but in setting conditions that could favor the emergence of life. 



Existing research suggests that regions with optimal gravity balance might support complex planetary systems, paving the way for biological evolution. 



As scientists continue to explore the mysteries of the universe, understanding the precise role of gravity will add another layer to our comprehension of life's cosmic potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-speculation-to-exploration">From speculation to exploration</h2>



"It will be exciting to employ the model to explore the emergence of life across different universes and see whether some fundamental questions we ask ourselves about our own universe must be reinterpreted," noted study co-author Lucas Lombriser, a professor at the University of Genevieve.



If this research can help us to better understand our own universe and its likelihood for hosting life, it seems we have come a long way from wild speculation to measured investigation into our place in the cosmos.



So, what does this all mean for us? Are we on the brink of making contact with alien life forms? While the research findings might lead some to temper their expectations, the search for extraterrestrial life continues.



In the end, we need to remember that the universe is vast, mind-bogglingly diverse, and still largely unexplored. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-alien-life-searching-for-color-purple-not-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potentials for life</a> - both as we know it and beyond our current comprehension - remain a thrilling frontier in scientific exploration.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/535/2/1449/7896079?login=false#493432585" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a>.



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What are the chances that alien life exists?

The era of wondering and wildly speculating may be drawing...

Roughly 233 million years ago, Earth's continents were fused into one massive landmass, and life as we know it was on the brink of transformation due to a one-million-year period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE).



An international team of scientists has found evidence of this significant extinction event, which appears to have paved the way for dinosaurs to become the dominant creatures on Earth.



Involved in this important research are Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso from the <a href="https://en.cug.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China University of Geosciences</a> at Wuhan and Professor Mike Benton from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. 



Their collaborative efforts have pieced together a pivotal moment in our planet's history that reshaped life both on land and in the oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carnian-pluvial-episode">Carnian Pluvial Episode</h2>



Back in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-dinosaurs-benefited-from-changes-in-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Late Triassic period</a>, all the continents were joined together in a supercontinent known as Pangea, surrounded by the vast Panthalassa Ocean. The interior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pangea</a> was mostly dry and arid, with rainfall occurring mainly near the coastal regions. 



This dry spell took a dramatic turn when a layer of dark gray rock was discovered in Austria's Northern Limestone Alps in the 1970s by geologists Schlager and Schollnberger. 



This layer indicated wet conditions sandwiched between arid periods, suggesting a global climate event -- the Carnian Pluvial Episode.



So, what caused this sudden shift to a wetter climate? The main culprit appears to be massive volcanic eruptions in the Wrangellia Province, an area that now includes parts of Alaska and British Columbia. 



These eruptions released enormous amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-rocks-reveal-new-details-about-earths-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> into the atmosphere. 



"The eruptions peaked in the Carnian," notes Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso. "They were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, leading to spikes of global warming."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pangea-biodiversity-and-evolution">Pangea, biodiversity, and evolution</h2>



The supercontinent known as Pangea joined together almost all of Earth's landmasses into one massive landmass. 



Imagine all the continents we know today -- North America, South America, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Antarctica -- snapped together like pieces of a giant puzzle. 



Pangea formed around 335 million years ago during the late Paleozoic era and dominated the planet until it began to break apart about 175 million years ago. 



This massive gathering of land had a huge impact on the climate, sea levels, and the distribution of plants and animals across the globe.



As Pangea started to split apart, it set the stage for the continents to drift to their current positions through the process of plate tectonics. 



This breakup led to the formation of the Atlantic Ocean and reshaped ecosystems, creating new environments for species to evolve and adapt. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mass-extinction-and-new-beginnings">Mass extinction and new beginnings</h2>



The surge in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/report-earth-is-headed-for-an-irreversible-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> caused global temperatures to rise by about 5 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit, amplifying evaporation from the seas and triggering increased rainfall worldwide. 



This climate chaos led to significant biodiversity loss. Many species couldn't adapt to the rapid environmental changes, resulting in a mass extinction event. But nature abhors a vacuum. 



As some species disappeared, new ones emerged to fill the gaps, leading to ecosystems that began to resemble those we see today.



"The new floras probably provided slim pickings for the surviving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-with-high-body-temperatures-often-become-herbivores/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous reptiles</a>," says Professor Mike Benton. 



"We now know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-triassic-fossil-gondwanax-paraisensis-may-rewrite-history-of-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs originated</a> some 20 million years before this event, but they remained quite rare and unimportant until the Carnian Pluvial Episode hit. It was the sudden arid conditions after the humid episode that gave dinosaurs their chance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaurs-emerge-from-the-carnian-pluvial">Dinosaurs emerge from the Carnian Pluvial</h2>



As the climate shifted back to drier conditions, dinosaurs seized the opportunity to thrive. This period also saw the rise of the first turtles, crocodiles, lizards, and even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredible-discovery-some-mammals-attacked-dinosaurs-and-they-often-won-the-battle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earliest mammals</a>. 



The expansion of conifer forests created new habitats, and these emerging animal groups diversified life on land in remarkable ways.



The oceans weren't spared from the upheaval. The Carnian Pluvial Episode marks the beginning of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-save-coral-reefs-with-selective-breeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern coral reefs</a> and the appearance of many groups of plankton. 



These changes indicate significant shifts in ocean chemistry and the carbonate cycle, affecting the entire marine food chain and leading to new forms of marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizing-a-sixth-mass-extinction">Recognizing a sixth mass extinction</h2>



Until now, scientists had identified five <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major mass extinctions</a> over the past half-billion years. These events dramatically reshaped life's trajectory on Earth. 



"So far, paleontologists had identified five 'big' mass extinctions in the past 500 million years of the history of life," says Dr. Dal Corso. 



"We have identified another great extinction event, and it evidently had a major role in helping to reset life on land and in the oceans, marking the origins of modern ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-this-carnian-pluvial">Lessons from this Carnian Pluvial</h2>



The Carnian Pluvial Episode offers valuable insights into how massive volcanic eruptions and the resulting climate shifts can have far-reaching consequences. 



The release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide led to global warming, increased rainfall, and environmental upheaval. 



In our current era, human activities are raising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas levels</a>, leading to climate change. Studying events like the CPE can help us understand how ecosystems respond to rapid environmental changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-volcanic-events">Massive volcanic events</h2>



Dr. Dal Corso emphasizes the scale of these ancient volcanic events, saying, "The eruptions were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, and there were spikes of global warming." 



His observations highlight how natural events can dramatically alter our planet's climate.



"I had noted a floral switch and ecological catastrophe among the herbivores back in 1983 when I completed my PhD," Professor Benton notes.



His decades of work illustrate how scientific understanding evolves, building on clues from various fields to piece together Earth's complex history.



Learning about events from millions of years ago requires collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines, including geology, paleontology, and climate science. 



Discoveries like the Carnian Pluvial Episode showcase the importance of interdisciplinary research in deepening our understanding of Earth's past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



As we face our own environmental challenges today, looking back at events like the Carnian Pluvial Episode can inform our actions. 



If natural volcanic activity could cause such drastic changes, it raises questions about the impact of human-induced climate change. 



How might life on Earth adapt -- or struggle to adapt -- in the face of current environmental shifts?



The story of the Carnian Pluvial Episode demonstrates Earth's resilience and ability to recover and evolve after catastrophic events. 



A period of massive volcanic eruptions and climate upheaval set the stage for the rise of dinosaurs and the formation of ecosystems that continue to influence life today. 



As we continue to explore our planet's history, each discovery offers a new perspective on the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2109895118" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>.



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One million years of heavy rain triggered Earth's era of dinosaur dominance

Roughly 233 million years ago, Earth's continents were fused into...

In a quiet and picturesque corner of southern Brazil known as Paraíso do Sul, an extraordinary treasure was uncovered -- a fossil so ancient and well-preserved that it may potentially rewrite the narrative of dinosaur evolution.



This remarkable fossil belonged to a dog-sized reptile named Gondwanax paraisensis that roamed the region approximately 237 million years ago. 



This was during the Triassic period -- a time when Earth’s ecosystems were teeming with evolutionary experiments.



As a newly identified species, this fossil holds tremendous potential as a key to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the origin and early development of the oldest dinosaurs.



Although this fascinating discovery has sparked significant intrigue and excitement among paleontologists, the exact position of the fossil in the complex evolutionary tree of life still remains a subject of debate and careful scientific scrutiny.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-history-written-in-stone">Dinosaur history written in stone</h2>



In the realms of science, every fossil discovery is like a puzzle piece that can help us better understand our past. And when it comes to the world of paleontology, there are still many puzzles waiting to be solved.



Gondwanax paraisensis walked on four legs and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gondwanax#/media/File:Gondwanax_paraisensis.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">was 39 inches in length</a>, with a long tail. It belonged to an extinct group of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-climate-change-drove-the-rapid-evolution-of-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a> known as silesaurids. These were not true dinosaurs, but are considered a closely related sister group to the dinosaurs.



However, this newly discovered fossil is one of the oldest silesaurids found anywhere in the world, and it may lead scientists to challenge currently accepted theories about the lineage and early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of dinosaurs</a>.



"The most important part of this finding is its age,” said Rodrigo Temp Müller, the sole author of the study and a paleontologist at <a href="https://www.ufsm.br/orgaos-de-apoio/sai/welcome-to-ufsm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Federal University of Santa Maria</a> in Brazil. “Because it's so old, it gives us clues as to how dinosaurs came to be."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-currently-accepted-dinosaur-evolution-theory">Currently accepted dinosaur evolution theory</h2>



Scientists think dinosaurs first appeared about 230 million years ago during the Triassic period. They evolved from earlier reptiles and quickly diversified into a bunch of different species. 



Over time, dinosaurs became the dominant land animals, filling all sorts of ecological roles. Some grew to massive sizes like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/qunkasaura-pintiquiniestra-new-sauropod-dinosaur-discovered-in-spain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sauropods</a>, while others became fierce predators like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-rex-was-about-70-percent-bigger-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tyrannosaurus rex</a>. 



It's wild to consider how they adapted and evolved unique features like horns, armor, and even feathers over millions of years.



One of the coolest things we've learned is that not all dinosaurs went extinct -- birds are actually their modern descendants. 



Birds evolved from small, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-evolved-feathers-for-much-more-than-just-flying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathered theropods</a>, meaning every time you see a pigeon or a hawk, you're looking at a living dinosaur. 



This evolutionary link is supported by numerous fossil discoveries that show similarities in skeletal structures, feather patterns, and nesting behaviors. 



Additionally, ongoing research continues to uncover how dinosaurs interacted with their environments and each other, shedding light on their complex social behaviors and survival strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-lineage-of-questions">A lineage of questions</h2>



There is an ongoing debate among paleontologists about where silesaurids fit in terms of dinosaur evolution. Were they actual dinosaurs or were they just closely related ancestors?



The answer to this question is not straightforward. Some scientists believe that silesaurids are a sister group to dinosaurs, implying that they share a common ancestor but evolved separately.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Gondwanax-paraisensis_history-of-dinosaurs_illustration_credit-Gondwana-research_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Gondwanax-paraisensis_history-of-dinosaurs_illustration_credit-Gondwana-research_1s.webp" alt="Illustration showing the evolution of dinosaurs on the Gondwana continent of ancient Earth. Credit: Gondwana research" class="wp-image-1950311"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Illustration showing the evolution of dinosaurs on the Gondwana continent of ancient Earth. Credit: Gondwana research</figcaption></figure>



Others, however, hypothesize that some silesaurids may have evolved into ornithischians -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/isle-of-wight-fossils-suggest-that-europe-had-unique-plant-eating-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous dinosaurs</a>, such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/armor-was-a-boomerang-trait-in-the-story-of-dinosaur-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stegosaurus</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/triceratops-dinosaurs-seem-to-have-developed-complex-social-structures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Triceratops</a>, that possessed a bird-like pelvic structure.



Understanding silesaurids could potentially lead to a better understanding of what physical traits contributed to the success of early dinosaurs.



However, solving this puzzle has not been an easy task as many fossils of silesaurids are found incomplete or fragmented, making it difficult for scientists to reach consensus regarding the position of silesaurids in the evolutionary tree of dinosaurs. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-clues-about-the-history-of-dinosaurs">New clues about the history of dinosaurs </h2>



Physician Pedro Lucas Porcela Aurélio, who discovered the new fossil in 2014, was hit by an indescribable feeling. "Being the first human to touch something from 237 million years ago is extraordinary," he remarked.



When Aurélio handed over the fossil to the paleontologists in 2021, it was encased in hard rock with only the vertebrae visible. 



Surprisingly, Gondwanax was found to have three vertebrae in its hips, unlike its relatives who only had two. This difference suggested that this reptile may have been more dinosaur-like than previously assumed.



If this hypothesis is confirmed, it would not only extend the history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-bird-hipped-dinosaurs-evolve/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ornithischians</a> (bird-like dinosaurs) by up to ten million years, but it would also significantly alter our understanding of dinosaur origin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



Despite the enthusiasm around the discovery, scientists still need more fossil evidence to confirm this theory. 



Steve Brusatte, a paleontologist from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>, highlighted this need for further exploration. 



"I wish I could say that this new silesaurid fossil solves the riddle once and for all," he said. "But for me, it is still an open question."



We will be waiting eagerly for more pieces of this ancient puzzle to surface. Until then, the mystery of the dog-sized reptile continues to linger.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1342937X24002764" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gondwana Research</a>.



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Rare Triassic fossil discovery may rewrite the history of dinosaurs

In a quiet and picturesque corner of southern Brazil known...

Predicting extreme weather is one of the challenges that has consistently daunted meteorologists and scientists all over the world. 



Weather events, especially in a time of increasing climate volatility, can be unpredictable and have far-reaching impacts. However, the weather forecasting puzzle may have a new piece, thanks to a recent study on electric fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-field-during-severe-weather">Electric field during severe weather</h2>



The study, led by Dr. Assaf Hochman from The Hebrew University and Professor Yoav Yair from Reichmann University, examined how atmospheric electric field measurements can help predict severe weather events.



Scientists closely examined "Cyprus Lows," which are low-pressure winter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather systems</a> in southern Israel's arid Negev Desert. 



The goal was to understand how the electric field plays a role in anticipating heavy precipitation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-electric-fields-relate-to-weather">How do electric fields relate to weather?</h2>



During weather events known as "wet" Cyprus Lows - when rain falls as a cold front passes - the researchers observed considerable increases in the potential gradient of the electric field.



They found that the typical fair-weather levels (100–200 volts per meter) could skyrocket to hundreds or even thousands of volts per meter during rainfall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-all-clouds-created-equal">Are all clouds created equal?</h2>



Interestingly, these electric surges occurred as convective clouds passed overhead, suggesting that different cloud types produce unique electric field patterns. 



And, surprisingly, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scorching-summer-of-2024-could-make-it-the-hottest-year-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors</a> other than rain intensity, such as the structure of a cloud and the electrical charge of rain droplets, played influential roles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-weather-saving-lives">Predicting weather, saving lives</h2>



The ability to correlate electric field variations with specific weather conditions could be a significant step towards improving nowcasting systems for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting extreme weather</a>. 



This advancement is especially crucial for regions prone to flash floods and sudden weather changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-and-electric-field-variations">Weather and electric field variations</h2>



In a country like Israel, where desert and Mediterranean climates collide, slight shifts in a low-pressure system's location can cause dramatic local weather changes. 



Thus, maintaining a watchful eye on electric field dynamics could be an early warning system for severe weather, enhancing community preparedness in our rapidly changing climate.



"This research demonstrates how electric field variations can serve as indicators of shifting weather patterns, allowing us to anticipate severe weather events in real-time," explained Dr. Yaniv. 



"The ability to identify these changes early is especially important in vulnerable regions like Israel, where even minor shifts in climate conditions can lead to significant local impacts."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technology-in-weather-forecasting">Technology in weather forecasting</h2>



Recent advancements in technology have had profound effects on the field of meteorology, offering promising tools to further understand and predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snowflake-patterns-can-help-predict-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather phenomena</a>. 



The integration of satellite imagery, high-performance computing, and machine learning algorithms provides meteorologists with unprecedented data precision. 



These technologies enable the development of dynamic weather models that can simulate complex atmospheric processes with greater accuracy. 



By incorporating the latest data from atmospheric electric fields, alongside traditional meteorological inputs, forecasting models can offer more timely and reliable predictions, potentially saving lives and safeguarding property in hazard-prone areas.



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



The implications of the research from <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hebrew</a> and <a href="https://www.runi.ac.il/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reichmann</a> Universities extend beyond the borders of Israel, offering a blueprint for tackling similar issues worldwide. 



As climate change continues to challenge the predictability of weather systems globally, understanding electric field variations could offer a universal tool for improving nowcasting capabilities. 



Future research could focus on integrating this approach into global weather prediction systems, enabling countries with diverse climates to enhance their adaptive strategies. 



Furthermore, collaboration between meteorologists, engineers, and policy-makers will be crucial in operationalizing these findings, ensuring that the benefits are disseminated at local, regional, and global scales. 



Ultimately, as research continues to evolve, it provides hope for more effective responses to the complex challenges posed by our changing climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-fields-and-weather-monitoring">Electric fields and weather monitoring</h2>



The study highlights the importance of incorporating electric field observations into weather monitoring systems.



The implications are particularly relevant for arid and semi-arid regions increasingly exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-experience-more-rainfall-than-surrounding-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change impacts</a>. 



The ability to anticipate and predict severe weather events can make the difference between life and death, especially in regions highly susceptible to weather changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-dawn-in-weather-predictions">New dawn in weather predictions</h2>



While scientists and meteorologists will need to further investigate how electric field variations could be efficiently integrated into weather prediction systems, this study provides important insights.



It presents a new perspective, shining a light on the countless benefits of looking skywards and understanding the electric dynamics at play in our atmosphere.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169809524005398?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Research</a>.



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Electric field signals can help us predict extreme weather

Predicting extreme weather is one of the challenges that has...

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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



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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



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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...