Workers rushed to the scene as Funk scanned their faces. The sound of their boots smashing the greasy sand was followed by loud gasps. What he saw seemed like it came straight from a movie. He had difficulty comprehending what he was witnessing. Something strange crawled out of the rock… What on earth could it be?

Inspecting The Location

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>.&nbsp;



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.&nbsp;



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.&nbsp;



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>.&nbsp;



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...

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the remnants of Lake Razzaza, an artificial lake situated a few miles west of Karbala, Iraq.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> was created in the late 1970s as a control measure to regulate the floodwaters of the Euphrates River.&nbsp;



Razzaza covers an area of approximately 1,562 square kilometers and is located in a depression where excess water from Lake Habbaniyah is diverted through a controlled escape channel or canal.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colors-of-lake-razzaza">The colors of Lake Razzaza</h2>



“The lake, also known as Baḩr al-Milḩ (‘Sea of Salt’ in Arabic), is fed by overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, which lies just outside the top left corner of the image,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153756/iraqs-sea-of-salt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The difference in water color results from the various communities of algae that thrive in the lake depending on the water temperature and salinity.”



“Green areas contain lower salt concentrations than red areas. At times when the lake receives no overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, as shown in this image, most of the lakebed is exposed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salinity-of-lake-razzaza">Salinity of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Over the years, the salinity of Lake Razzaza has been increasing due to inadequate water supply from the linked canal and high evaporation rates during Iraq's hot summers.&nbsp;



This rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-pollution-threatens-freshwater-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a> has led to a decline in fish populations, adversely affecting local fishermen who once relied on the lake for their livelihoods.&nbsp;



By 2008, only the fish species locally known as "al-Shanik" (Acanthopagrus arabicus), of marine origin and stocked by the government, was reported to survive in the lake.&nbsp;



The lake's fluctuating water levels and increasing salinity have also impacted its recreational appeal, with few recreational areas existing around the lake.&nbsp;



Additionally, the surrounding desert landscape and low cliff shores contribute to its limited accessibility for leisure activities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-lake-razzaza">Wildlife of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Despite these challenges, Lake Razzaza remains an important habitat for various bird species. It has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, supporting significant numbers of wintering waterfowl and serving as a breeding ground for species such as the marbled duck.&nbsp;



The lake's mudflats attract large numbers of waders and shorebirds during migration periods.&nbsp;



The surrounding area features vegetation such as Phragmites australis, Juncus acutus, Aeluropus lagopoides, Salicornia herbacea, and Schoenoplectus litoralis, along with desert shrublands including Tamarix aucherana, Prosopis farcta, and Haloxylon salicornicum.&nbsp;



Mammals reported in this region include the Rüppell's fox, golden jackal, Indian grey mongoose, jungle cat, and the wildcat. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-euphrates-river-nbsp">The Euphrates River&nbsp;</h2>



The Euphrates River is one of the most significant rivers in the Middle East and holds immense historical, cultural, and ecological importance.&nbsp;



Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles), it originates in the mountains of eastern Turkey and flows through Syria and Iraq before merging with the Tigris River to form the Shatt al-Arab, which empties into the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> has been a cradle of civilization for thousands of years, supporting ancient Mesopotamian societies, including Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria.



The Euphrates has provided water for irrigation, enabling the development of agriculture in an otherwise arid region. Its floodplains have been vital for sustaining life and fostering the growth of cities along its course.&nbsp;



However, the river also plays a key geopolitical role, as disputes over water usage and dam construction among Turkey, Syria, and Iraq have emerged over the years, impacting water availability downstream.



Ecologically, the Euphrates supports a range of habitats, from wetlands to desert ecosystems, making it home to diverse wildlife. 



Modern challenges such as damming, pollution, and climate change threaten its flow and ecological balance. Despite these challenges, the Euphrates remains a symbol of life and resilience in the heart of the Middle East.



The image was captured by an astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) on September 23, 2024.



Image Credit: NASA



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1792, a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Columba about 43 million light-years away from Earth. 



This galaxy, discovered by British astronomer James Dunlop in 1826, is part of the larger NGC 1808 group of galaxies.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intimate-view-of-ngc-1792">Intimate view of NGC 1792</h2>



“An orange glow radiates from the center of NGC 1792, the heart of this stellar forge. Captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, this intimate view of NGC 1792 gives us some insight into this galactic powerhouse,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The vast swathes of tell-tale blue seen throughout the galaxy indicate areas that are full of young, hot stars, and it is in the shades of orange, seen nearer the center, that the older, cooler stars reside.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vigorous-star-formation-nbsp">Vigorous star formation&nbsp;</h2>



NGC 1792 is notable for its vigorous star formation, classifying it as a starburst galaxy. This high rate of star formation is thought to be triggered by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies, though the exact cause is still under study.



“Nestled in the constellation of Columba (The Dove), NGC 1792 is both a spiral galaxy, and a starburst galaxy,” said ESA. “Within starburst galaxies, stars are forming at comparatively exorbitant rates. The rate of star formation can be more than 10 times faster in a starburst galaxy than in the Milky Way.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fierce-bursts-of-star-formation">Fierce bursts of star formation</h2>



ESA noted that when galaxies have a large reservoir of gas, like NGC 1792, these short-lived starburst phases can be sparked by galactic events such as mergers and tidal interactions.&nbsp;



“One might think that these starburst galaxies would easily consume all of their gas in a large forming event. However, supernova explosions and intense stellar winds produced in these powerful starbursts can inject energy into the gas and disperse it.”&nbsp;



“This halts the star formation before it can completely deplete the galaxy of all its fuel. Scientists are actively working to understand this complex interplay between the dynamics that drive and quench these fierce bursts of star formation.”



Due to its distance and brightness, NGC 1792 can be observed with medium-sized telescopes under favorable conditions.



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



Galaxy evolution refers to the process by which galaxies form and change over time. It begins in the early universe, shortly after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-observations-disprove-big-bang-theory-universe-began-tired-light-theory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Bang</a>, when small density fluctuations in the primordial gas led to the collapse of matter into the first galaxies.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-mergers">Galaxy mergers</h3>



These early galaxies were small and irregular, composed mostly of gas and dark matter. Over billions of years, galaxies grew larger by merging with one another and by accreting gas from the surrounding space.&nbsp;



These interactions often triggered bursts of star formation, and collisions between galaxies sometimes led to the creation of new, more massive galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structural-changes">Structural changes</h3>



As galaxies evolve, their morphology - their shape and structure - can change. Early galaxies were often irregular or disk-shaped, but over time, many galaxies formed into the elliptical or spiral shapes we see today.&nbsp;



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



Star formation is a key driver of galaxy evolution, but it gradually slows down as galaxies age. 



The gas that fuels <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> can be used up, or it can be heated and pushed out of galaxies by supernovae or black holes, reducing the galaxy's ability to form new stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-environment-nbsp">Galaxy environment&nbsp;</h3>



The environment in which a galaxy resides also plays a role in its evolution. Galaxies in dense clusters are more likely to interact with their neighbors, which can alter their shape or trigger bursts of star formation.&nbsp;



In contrast, galaxies in more isolated regions of space evolve more slowly and without as many dramatic interactions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter">Dark matter</h3>



Dark matter also plays a crucial role in galaxy evolution. It provides the gravitational framework that holds galaxies together and influences their interactions with one another.&nbsp;



Supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Galaxies%20merge&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, found at the centers of most large galaxies, can also affect their evolution by releasing energy that impacts star formation and the movement of gas within the galaxy.



Overall, galaxy evolution is a complex and ongoing process driven by interactions between stars, gas, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>, and black holes, and shaped by both internal processes and external influences.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA, J. Lee



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Starburst galaxy in the constellation Columba

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy ESO 300-16, which is located 28.7 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Eridanus. 



The galaxy is part of the ESO (European Southern Observatory) catalog, which includes a vast collection of galaxies observed in the southern hemisphere.



ESO 300-16 is notable for its chaotic structure, lacking the well-defined <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/hubble-captures-a-collection-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiral arms</a> or elliptical shape seen in many other galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ghostly-assemblage-of-stars">Ghostly assemblage of stars</h2>



According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>, ESO 300-16 is a ghostly assemblage of stars which resembles a sparkling cloud.&nbsp;



"A rogue’s gallery of distant galaxies and foreground stars complete this astronomical portrait, which was captured by the Advanced Camera for Surveys," said ESA.



"This observation is one of a series which aims to get to know our galactic neighbors; around three quarters of the known galaxies suspected to lie within 10 megaparsecs of Earth have been observed by Hubble in enough detail to resolve their brightest stars and establish the distances to these galaxies."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irregular-galaxy-structure">Irregular galaxy structure </h2>



ESO 300-16 lies at a relatively close distance to Earth compared to many other extragalactic objects, making it an interesting target for studies on galaxy formation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>. 



The galaxy's irregular structure suggests that it may have undergone past interactions with other galaxies or is in a stage of dynamic evolution.



One of the most striking features of ESO 300-16 is its wispy, diffuse appearance, with scattered patches of bright star-forming regions embedded within a fainter background. This indicates ongoing star formation, which is a common characteristic of irregular galaxies. 



Unlike large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiral galaxies</a>, where star formation is often concentrated in well-organized arms, ESO 300-16's active regions are more randomly distributed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raw-material-for-star-formation">Raw material for star formation</h2>



Due to its irregular nature, the galaxy does not have a well-defined nucleus. Instead, it appears as a loose collection of stars, gas, and dust, which astronomers can study to understand the processes shaping such galaxies. 



Irregular galaxies like ESO 300-16 are often rich in gas and dust, providing the raw material for new stars to form. 



Observations in different wavelengths, such as infrared and ultraviolet, can help reveal the presence of young, hot stars and cooler dust clouds that might be sites of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-formation-reignited-in-the-galaxy-leo-p-after-billions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-evolution-of-galaxies">Studying the evolution of galaxies </h2>



Hubble observations of ESO 300-16 provide insight into the structure and stellar populations of the galaxy, helping astronomers piece together its history and evolutionary path. 



The study of galaxies like ESO 300-16 contributes to our broader understanding of how galaxies form and evolve, especially those that do not fit into the traditional classifications of spirals and ellipticals.



Because irregular galaxies are often shaped by gravitational interactions or past mergers, ESO 300-16 may have had a turbulent past. 



It could have once been part of a larger system before being disrupted, or it might have formed in an environment where gravitational influences from nearby galaxies prevented it from developing a more regular shape. 



Studying its motion and the distribution of its stars can provide clues about any past interactions it may have experienced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-glimpse-into-the-early-universe">A glimpse into the early universe </h2>



ESO 300-16 also provides a glimpse into what some galaxies in the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universe-is-expanding-faster-than-science-can-explain-hubble-tension-physics-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a> might have looked like. 



Many early galaxies were irregular in shape before evolving into more structured forms over time. As a result, studying nearby irregular galaxies like ESO 300-16 can offer valuable analogs for understanding galaxy formation in the distant past.



Although ESO 300-16 is not one of the most famous galaxies, it remains an important object for astronomers studying irregular galaxies, star formation, and the role of interactions in shaping galactic structures. 



Image Credit: ESA



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Ghostly galaxy in the constellation Eridanus

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features dust plumes streaming over West Texas, after a storm system developed in the Central Plains of the United States. 



The low-pressure storm system produced a destructive series of severe weather events across the country.



“A powerful mid-latitude cyclone delivered a potpourri of weather hazards as it worked its way across the United States in March 2025,” said NASA.



“Beginning on March 3, the low-pressure system fanned wildfires and blinding dust storms in the Southwest, spawned severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in the Southeast, fueled blizzards in the Great Plains and Midwest, and dropped heavy rain in the Northeast.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-dust-storms">Massive dust storms</h2>



In New Mexico and Texas, the storm generated massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-and-dust-storms-have-become-unpredictable-and-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust storms</a>, known as "haboobs," characterized by walls of dust stretching miles wide and thousands of feet high. These dust storms led to near-zero visibility, causing hazardous driving conditions and road closures.&nbsp;



The National Weather Service issued dust storm warnings, advising residents to stay indoors and drivers to pull over safely until conditions improved



NASA elaborated on the details captured in the image. “Clouds of dust appear to originate from arid landscapes in northern Mexico and West Texas, a region that spans the Chihuahuan Desert, cattle ranches and cotton farms, and gas and oil fields.”



“Exceptional drought has gripped West Texas for the past several months, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The lack of rain has parched vegetation and dried the land surface, making the region particularly susceptible to erosion and dust storms.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-storms-are-intensifying-in-the-u-s">Dust storms are intensifying in the U.S.</h2>



Santiago Gassó, an atmospheric scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, noted that dust storms are typical in this region at this time of year. “Unfortunately, we’re seeing longer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">droughts</a> in the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico, so we can expect more of this type of (larger) event.”



NASA noted that fierce winds and thick plumes of blowing dust led to traffic accidents, flight disruptions, school closures, power outages, and red and orange skies throughout the state and region.&nbsp;



“One particularly severe dust storm on March 3 sharply reduced visibility and contributed to a 21-car accident near Roswell, New Mexico.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blizzards-tornadoes-and-fire-weather">Blizzards, tornadoes, and fire weather</h2>



The storm also produced blizzard conditions in parts of the Rockies and the Plains, with heavy snowfall and strong winds making travel difficult and increasing the risk of power outages.&nbsp;



Major cities like Chicago and Milwaukee were expected to experience record low-pressure readings due to the storm's intensity.



In addition to dust storms and blizzards, the system brought severe weather to the Southern United States, including threats of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-tornado-outbreak-100-storms-touched-down-in-a-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tornadoes</a>, large hail, and strong winds.&nbsp;



North Texas, particularly the Dallas-Fort Worth area, faced significant impacts, with over 400,000 people experiencing power outages. An EF1 tornado struck Irving, Texas, leading to evacuations from damaged apartment complexes.



The storm's strong winds and low humidity levels also heightened fire risks in regions like Central Texas and Alabama. Red Flag Warnings were issued due to the increased potential for rapid and intense wildfires.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-panhandle-hook-storms-in-the-u-s">Panhandle hook storms in the U.S.</h2>



A panhandle hook is a type of low-pressure storm system that originates in the Texas and Oklahoma panhandle regions and then moves northeast across the central United States.&nbsp;



These systems are named for their characteristic "hook-shaped" track, as they often travel from the southern Plains into the Midwest and Great Lakes region.



The storms typically begin as low-pressure systems in the semi-arid regions of Texas, Oklahoma, and eastern New Mexico, where warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico meets cold, dry air from the Rockies and the northern Plains.



As the system strengthens, it moves northeastward, often following a curved path that resembles a "hook" when mapped. This movement is influenced by the jet stream, which steers the storm across the central U.S.



Panhandle hook <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-heat-fueled-unexpected-and-deadly-storms-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storms</a> are particularly dangerous because they develop quickly and can intensify rapidly. They often occur in late winter and early spring, when temperature contrasts are strongest.



The image was captured on March 4, 2025 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Monster storm spawns severe weather across the U.S. 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency (ESA) features the distant galaxy LEDA 22057, which is located about 650 million light-years away in the constellation Gemini. 



Within the galaxy lies a pale blue dot - SN 2024PI, a supernova explosion that was discovered by an automated survey in January 2024.



“The survey covers the entire northern half of the night sky every two days and has cataloged more than 10,000 supernovae,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Pale_blue_supernova_dot" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The supernova is visible in this image: located just down and to the right of the galactic nucleus, the pale blue dot of SN 2024PI stands out against the galaxy’s ghostly spiral arms.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-remnants-of-a-supernova-nbsp">The remnants of a supernova&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that the image was taken about a month and a half after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shockingly-bright-carbon-monoxide-detected-in-supernova-remnant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> was discovered, so it appears many times fainter than its maximum brilliance.



“SN 2024PI is classified as a Type Ia supernova. This type of supernova requires a remarkable object called a white dwarf, the crystallized core of a star with a mass less than about eight times the mass of the Sun,” explained ESA.



“When a star of this size uses up the supply of hydrogen in its core, it balloons into a red giant, becoming cool, puffy and luminous. Over time, pulsations and stellar winds cause the star to shed its outer layers, leaving behind a white dwarf and a colorful planetary nebula.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fate-of-white-dwarfs">The fate of white dwarfs</h2>



Most stars in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> will eventually transition to white dwarfs after their death. Whether or not a star becomes a white dwarf depends on its mass. 



Stars that are significantly more massive will end their lives differently. Stars that exceed the critical mass threshold of eight times the Sun undergo more violent deaths. 



After exhausting their nuclear fuel, they collapse under their immense gravity and trigger a supernova explosion. Depending on the remaining core mass, they may leave behind either a neutron star or a black hole, rather than a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hungry-white-dwarf-stars-eat-heavy-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>. 



These remnants represent extreme outcomes of stellar evolution and are fundamentally different from white dwarfs.



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



Gemini is one of the twelve zodiac constellations located in the northern celestial hemisphere.&nbsp;



Its name means "twins" in Latin, reflecting its representation of the mythological twins Castor and Pollux from Greek and Roman mythology.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-of-gemini">Stars of Gemini</h3>



The stars Castor and Pollux, which form the heads of the twins, are the brightest stars in Gemini and are key to its identification.&nbsp;



Pollux is a bright orange giant star, while Castor is a multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-found-in-the-habitable-zone-of-a-binary-star-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star system</a> made up of six stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neighboring-constellations">Neighboring constellations</h3>



Gemini lies between Taurus to the west and Cancer to the east, and it is bordered by several other constellations, including Orion to the south.



It is most visible in the night sky during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in January and February.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-gemini">Significance of Gemini</h3>



The constellation is part of the ecliptic, the path that the Sun appears to take through the sky, making it significant in both astronomy and astrology.



Astronomically, Gemini is home to several interesting deep-sky objects, including the open star cluster M35, which is easily visible with binoculars or a small telescope.&nbsp;



The constellation also contains several stars and stellar systems of interest, such as variable stars and binary systems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greek-mythology-nbsp">Greek mythology&nbsp;</h3>



In Greek mythology, Castor and Pollux were the sons of Leda, but they had different fathers - Castor was mortal, while Pollux was divine, being the son of Zeus.&nbsp;



Their story is one of loyalty and brotherhood, as Pollux begged Zeus to share his immortality with Castor after his brother's death. As a result, Zeus placed them in the sky as the constellation Gemini, symbolizing their eternal bond.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-culture">Modern culture</h3>



In modern culture, Gemini continues to be associated with duality, adaptability, and communication in astrology.&nbsp;



The constellation also holds significance in space science, lending its name to NASA's Gemini program in the 1960s. This program conducted critical missions that paved the way for the Apollo moon landings.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Supernova explosion captured in the constellation Gemini 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a stunningly beautiful photo of the Hainan Strait. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite as it orbited over southern China.



“The Hainan Strait, or Qiongzhou Strait, separates Guangdong's Leizhou Peninsula on China’s mainland to the north and the island province of Hainan to the south. It also connects the Gulf of Tonkin on the west to the South China Sea on the east,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hainan-strait-nbsp">Hainan Strait&nbsp;</h2>



The Hainan Strait is narrow and shallow. At its narrowest point, the strait is about 19 miles wide. Despite this, the Hainan Strait is a busy route for shipping and transportation. It's also vital to local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> industries.



ESA pointed out that in the image, the water along the coasts is light brown due to sediment runoff. 



“The curved Leizhou Peninsula juts southward into the South China Sea. The largest island on the east coast, Donghai, forms two bays: Leizhou Bay to its south and Zhanjiang Bay to its north," noted ESA.



“Facing both bays are cities with the same names: Zhanjiang, the largest city on the peninsula, and Leizhou, which gave the peninsula its name." 



"Hainan Island dominates the bottom part of the image. The name Hainan means ‘south of the sea,’ reflecting the island's position south of the strait.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-hainan-island">History of Hainan Island </h2>



During the Mesozoic Era about 100 million years ago, Hainan Island was actually part of a larger landmass connected to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/denisovan-tooth-suggests-southeast-asia-was-a-human-diversity-hotspot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southeast Asia</a>. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-features">Geological features</h3>



Over time, the movements of Earth's plates caused this landmass to break apart and drift. Hainan separated from the continental shelf near Vietnam and moved to its current position.



This tectonic activity not only shaped the island's current location but also influenced its geological features. Hainan's landscape is characterized by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a>, volcanic formations, and rich mineral deposits, which are direct results of these ancient geological processes.



Understanding this geological history helps explain why Hainan Island has such unique and diverse natural features compared to the mainland of China and nearby regions. The island's distinct wildlife and terrain make it a fascinating subject for geologists and natural historians alike.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-diversity-nbsp">Cultural diversity&nbsp;</h3>



Hainan was once a remote and undeveloped part of China. It was used as a place of exile for disgraced officials during imperial times. 



However, it was also a place where diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultures</a> met, as evidenced by the many ethnic groups that live there, including the Li people, who are indigenous to the island.



The island really started to change in the 20th century. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Hainan was occupied by Japanese forces, which had a significant impact on its development. After the war, it became a part of the People’s Republic of China in 1950.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-development-nbsp">Rapid development&nbsp;</h3>



In the 1980s, Hainan was designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which marked the beginning of its transformation into a major economic and tourist hub. 



The SEZ status attracted significant investment and spurred rapid development, particularly in the capital city of Haikou and the resort city of Sanya.



Today, Hainan is known for its lush landscapes, tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caribbean-salt-affects-global-climate-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>, and booming tourism industry. It's also becoming a key player in China's efforts to develop its free trade zones, aiming to become a major center for trade and commerce in the region.



Image Credit: ESA/ Copernicus Sentinel-2&nbsp;



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Hainan Strait in southern China

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

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

A recent study confirmed that the Antarctic ozone layer is currently healing, as a result of global efforts to reduce ozone-depleting substances.&nbsp;



The study demonstrates that joint international measures - in particular, the phase-out of chemicals that damage the ozone layer - have led to a meaningful restoration of this critical atmospheric shield.



Scientists, including the <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> team that led the current study, have previously detected indications of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/burning-up-of-satellites-severely-harms-ozone-recovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone recovery</a>.



However, this new study is the first to provide strong statistical evidence that the improvement is primarily driven by the reduction of ozone-depleting substances, rather than factors like natural weather fluctuations or rising greenhouse gas levels in the stratosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-of-the-ozone-hole">Recovery of the ozone hole</h2>



“There’s been a lot of qualitative evidence showing that the Antarctic ozone hole is getting better. This is really the first study that has quantified confidence in the recovery of the ozone hole,” said study co-author Susan Solomon, a professor of environmental studies and chemistry at MIT.&nbsp;



“The conclusion is, with 95 percent confidence, it is recovering. Which is awesome. And it shows we can actually solve environmental problems.”



Solomon worked on this project with lead author and graduate student Peidong Wang and contributors from multiple other research institutions.&nbsp;



The team’s findings offer strong support for the success of international policy interventions - specifically the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1987-ozone-treaty-had-an-unexpected-benefit-for-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montreal Protocol</a>, which curbed the production of ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-ozone-hole-over-antarctica-nbsp">Seasonal ozone hole over Antarctica&nbsp;</h2>



Within the Earth’s stratosphere, ozone is a naturally occurring gas that acts as a sort of sunscreen, protecting the planet from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation.&nbsp;



However, in 1985, scientists discovered that a seasonal “hole” in the ozone layer developed over Antarctica each austral spring - letting in greater quantities of dangerous UV rays.&nbsp;



By 1986, Solomon, then a scientist at the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA), led expeditions that identified CFCs as the chief culprit in stratospheric ozone loss. The Montreal Protocol, enacted in 1987, aimed to gradually eliminate these chemicals worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-and-human-caused-changes-nbsp">Natural and human-caused changes&nbsp;</h2>



“While detecting a statistically significant increase in ozone is relatively straightforward, attributing these changes to specific forcings is more challenging,” Wang said.&nbsp;



In past studies, although ozone levels in the Antarctic region seemed to be improving, scientists struggled to confirm just how much of that recovery was driven by reductions in CFCs as opposed to natural weather variability - such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-climate-shifts-date-back-250-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a>, La Niña, or the polar vortex - or the effects of rising greenhouse gases.



To tackle these uncertainties, the researchers adopted a “fingerprinting” method, originally developed by Nobel Prize-winning scientist Klaus Hasselmann for distinguishing the impacts of human-caused climate change from natural fluctuations in the climate system.&nbsp;



The MIT-led team adapted this fingerprinting to separate human-driven ozone gains from other atmospheric noise.



They began by running climate simulations for various scenarios: a hypothetical world where greenhouse gases did not rise, a world where ozone-depleting substances were not phased out, and other alternative pathways.&nbsp;



In these virtual settings, they examined how ozone levels would shift, both over time and with seasonal changes. By comparing these model outcomes, the scientists identified a characteristic signal of ozone healing - an unmistakable pattern that occurred only when CFCs were curbed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-fingerprint-in-the-data">Distinct “fingerprint” in the data</h2>



The researchers then combed through 15 years’ worth of satellite observations of the Antarctic ozone hole. 



Step by step, they tested whether the actual data exhibited the predicted pattern of recovery - a fingerprint tied specifically to the global phase-out of CFCs. The match was impressively strong.



“After 15 years of observational records, we see this signal to noise with 95 percent confidence, suggesting there’s only a very small chance that the observed pattern similarity can be explained by variability noise,” Wang said.&nbsp;



“This gives us confidence in the fingerprint. It also gives us confidence that we can solve environmental problems. What we can learn from ozone studies is how different countries can swiftly follow these treaties to decrease emissions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-the-healing-ozone-hole">Lessons from the healing ozone hole</h2>



The study’s findings imply that if these trends persist, the Antarctic ozone hole could eventually close for good.&nbsp;



“By something like 2035, we might see a year when there’s no ozone hole depletion at all in the Antarctic. And that will be very exciting for me,” Wang said. “And some of you will see the ozone hole go away completely in your lifetimes. And people did that.”



From a broader perspective, the ozone hole’s gradual healing stands as a success story for international cooperation on an environmental crisis.&nbsp;



At the height of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/use-of-banned-ozone-depleting-chemicals-is-increasing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CFC use</a>, aerosol propellants, refrigerants, and other industrial processes threatened to erode Earth’s UV shield to dangerous levels. Rapid science-based policymaking in the form of the Montreal Protocol turned the tide, demonstrating that even large-scale environmental challenges can be confronted.



The researchers consider this a timely lesson for today’s leaders, as the world grapples with complex ecological problems, including climate change.&nbsp;



By illustrating how robust, evidence-based treaties can drive positive, global-scale outcomes, the current work highlights both the vulnerability of Earth’s atmosphere and the power of coordinated human action.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08640-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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The ozone layer is healing - will the hole disappear for good?

A recent study confirmed that the Antarctic ozone layer is...

A team of engineers has recently created a breakthrough prosthetic hand that can deftly handle everyday objects, from plush toys to water bottles, adjusting its grip to avoid damaging them.&nbsp;



In doing so, the experts have introduced a novel hybrid approach to robotic hands, merging rigid and soft elements in a way that mimics the human hand’s unique design.



The innovative research was conducted in the Neuroengineering and Biomedical Instrumentations Lab at <a href="https://neuroengineering.bme.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a>. The team previously developed an electronic “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-tech-will-track-emotions-through-changes-in-our-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a>” with a humanlike sense of pain in 2018. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prosthetic-hand-with-sensing-capabilities-nbsp">Prosthetic hand with sensing capabilities&nbsp;</h2>



The new hand features a multi-finger setup made of rubberlike polymers over a rigid, 3D-printed skeleton. 



Its three layers of tactile sensors, modeled after the layers of human skin, go beyond simple contact detection to identify textures, shapes, and the precise force needed to pick up various items.



“The goal from the beginning has been to create a prosthetic hand that we model based on the human hand’s physical and sensing capabilities - a more natural prosthetic that functions and feels like a lost limb,” said Sriramana Sankar, a Johns Hopkins biomedical engineer who led the work.&nbsp;



“We want to give people with upper-limb loss the ability to safely and freely interact with their environment, to feel and hold their loved ones without concern of hurting them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-soft-and-rigid-elements">Bridging soft and rigid elements</h2>



In prosthetic technology, robotic hands have often been either too stiff to safely handle fragile objects or too soft to manage heavier ones. This new device tackles that issue by combining a pliable exterior with an internal frame.&nbsp;



The soft, air-filled finger joints can accommodate delicate items without crushing them, while the solid core provides the stability needed to lift or grip sturdier materials.



“We’re combining the strengths of both rigid and soft <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-with-space-to-think-will-become-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotics</a> to mimic the human hand,” Sankar explained.&nbsp;"The human hand isn’t completely rigid or purely soft - it’s a hybrid system, with bones, soft joints, and tissue working together. That’s what we want our prosthetic hand to achieve.”&nbsp;



Sankar noted that this is new territory for robotics and prosthetics, which haven’t fully embraced this hybrid technology before. “It’s being able to give a firm handshake or pick up a soft object without fear of crushing it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-the-sensation-of-touch-nbsp">Restoring the sensation of touch&nbsp;</h2>



Another central focus is restoring a sensation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-hidden-way-that-humans-feel-and-sense-touch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">touch</a> to individuals with upper-limb loss. The device employs machine learning algorithms to process signals from the artificial receptors embedded in its fingertips.&nbsp;



These signals merge with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-fuels-neuron-growth-through-muscle-signals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a> activity from the forearm to guide grip strength, finger positioning, and overall dexterity.



“The sensory information from its fingers is translated into the language of nerves to provide naturalistic sensory feedback through electrical nerve stimulation,” Sankar said. “Each of its soft air-filled finger joints can be controlled with the forearm’s muscles.”



For many prosthesis users, regaining the ability to “feel” objects is equally as important as being able to hold them.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifelike-prosthetic-hands-nbsp">Lifelike prosthetic hands&nbsp;</h2>



According to Nitish Thakor, a Johns Hopkins biomedical engineering professor who directed the work, any <a href="https://youtu.be/dnPrY7xA08c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifelike prosthetic hand</a> must incorporate three major components. 



First, sensors need to detect what the hand is touching; second, the system must convert that data into nerve-like signals; and third, the user’s nerves have to receive those signals as if they come from a natural limb.



“If you’re holding a cup of coffee, how do you know you’re about to drop it? Your palm and fingertips send signals to your brain that the cup is slipping,” Thakor said.&nbsp;



“Our system is neurally inspired - it models the hand’s touch receptors to produce nervelike messages so the prosthetics’ ‘brain,’ or its computer, understands if something is hot or cold, soft or hard, or slipping from the grip.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-tests-on-everyday-objects">Successful tests on everyday objects</h2>



In controlled lab experiments, the researchers tested the new hand’s performance on 15 ordinary items, ranging from stuffed animals and dish sponges to pineapples and sturdy cardboard boxes. 



These trials showed the hand deftly recognized each object’s characteristics and adjusted its grip accordingly.



The team reported a success rate of 99.69% in handling these items without error, a marked improvement over existing prosthetic hands.&nbsp;



One notable demonstration involved the hand lifting a fragile plastic cup filled with water using only three fingers - without denting the cup or spilling the liquid.



Although the prototype represents a major step toward prostheses that blend humanlike sensitivity and adaptability, the researchers emphasize that the system is still in early development.&nbsp;



Stronger grip forces, additional sensors, and more durable materials are among the enhancements they envision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-prosthetics">What's next for prosthetics?</h2>



Thakor also sees this hybrid approach to dexterity benefiting not just amputees but the broader robotics field. 



Robots that can handle delicate objects, such as glassware or soft materials, while still possessing the strength for more demanding tasks will be vital in settings ranging from warehouses to healthcare facilities.



“This hybrid dexterity isn’t just essential for next-generation prostheses,” Thakor said. “It’s what the robotic hands of the future need because they won’t just be handling large, heavy objects. They’ll need to work with delicate materials such as glass, fabric, or soft toys.”&nbsp;



“That’s why a hybrid robot, designed like the human hand, is so valuable - it combines soft and rigid structures, just like our skin, tissue, and bones.”



As this technology matures, it could lead to more natural prosthetics that let users regain a full range of motion and sensation.&nbsp;



The engineers hope that the progress made here will spur further refinements, ultimately resulting in prosthetic hands that can handle everything from a gentle handshake to a firm grasp of heavier objects - all while preserving a truly humanlike sense of touch.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr9300" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.&nbsp;



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Future of prosthetics: Bionic hand 'knows' what it’s touching

A team of engineers has recently created a breakthrough prosthetic...

The universe is in a constant state of motion, shaped by gravity, collisions, and the unseen force of dark matter. Galaxy clusters - the largest gravitationally bound structures in the cosmos - contain vast amounts of hot gas, providing an ideal laboratory to study these interactions.



Scientists have long theorized that cluster mergers drive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/80-million-pixels-reveal-the-brilliance-of-a-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic evolution</a>, but finding direct evidence has remained a challenge.



A recent breakthrough by the <a href="https://heasarc.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/xrism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XRISM</a> collaboration has changed this. By examining X-ray data from the XRISM satellite, astronomers have uncovered large-scale flows of hot gas in the core of the Centaurus Cluster. 



The findings confirm that galaxy cluster collisions trigger a process known as “sloshing,” where hot gas moves in vast waves within the cluster.



This not only explains how clusters evolve but also provides a long-sought answer to a puzzling question - why does the gas in these clusters remain hot when it should have cooled long ago?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immense-gravitational-forces">Immense gravitational forces </h2>



Galaxy clusters are massive cosmic structures held together by dark matter. 



Astronomers have theorized that the immense gravitational forces between galaxies and galaxy clusters drive their growth through mergers and collisions. However, direct evidence for this has been lacking.



The discovery of sloshing gas in the Centaurus Cluster provides the strongest confirmation yet of these dynamic interactions.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-structure-in-universe-is-1-4-billion-light-years-long-quipu-superstructure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clusters</a> do not exist in isolation. They move, collide, and merge over billions of years, shaping the structure of the universe. 



When two clusters interact, their hot gas - known as the intracluster medium (ICM) - does not remain static. Instead, it is disturbed by these colossal encounters, triggering massive flows that propagate throughout the cluster.



This movement plays a crucial role in maintaining the high temperatures observed in these systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hot-gas-movement-in-a-galaxy-cluster">Hot gas movement in a galaxy cluster</h2>



The international XRISM (X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission) collaboration has observed the Centaurus galaxy cluster with the XRISM satellite, launched in 2023 by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (<a href="https://global.jaxa.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAXA</a>). 



The onboard spectrometer, called Resolve, features advanced precision spectroscopy, allowing for the accurate identification of gas velocities.



Looking at the core of the Centaurus Cluster, including the central galaxy NGC 4696, the experts discovered for the first time a bulk flow of hot gas traveling around 130 to 310 kilometers per second in the line-of-sight from Earth.



They were also able to create a map of how the velocity varies at locations away from the center. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-direct-evidence-of-sloshing-gas">First direct evidence of sloshing gas </h2>



A task team led by Professor Yutaka Fujita from <a href="https://www.tmu.ac.jp/english/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokyo Metropolitan University</a> and Professor Kosuke Sato from the <a href="https://www.kek.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">High Energy Accelerator Research Organization</a> analyzed the data. 



The team compared their findings with simulations and found that the observed gas movement matched a process known as “sloshing.”



This phenomenon occurs when hot gas, also called the intracluster medium (ICM), moves due to collisions with other galactic clusters. Their research provides the first direct evidence of this kind of “sloshing.” 



It confirms a long-standing hypothesis about how galaxy clusters evolve over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sloshing-gas-keeps-clusters-hot">Sloshing gas keeps clusters hot</h2>



This breakthrough does not just confirm a theoretical concept. It also provides a missing piece in understanding how galaxy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-origins-of-young-star-clusters-traced-to-three-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clusters</a> maintain their extreme temperatures. 



The discovery that gas flows inside clusters act as a natural heat transport mechanism solves a major astrophysical mystery.



The study also solves a long-standing unsolved mystery for astronomers of how such bright X-ray emitting gas stays hot. 



Theoretically, such intense radiation should entail a loss of energy, leading to cooling of the gas; this is known as radiative cooling. The time scale over which this cooling should occur is shorter than the age of the cluster, but observations so far suggest that, somehow, the gas manages to stay hot. 



These new findings present an elegant solution to this problem. If the gas in the cluster core can “slosh,” involving vast bulk flows of gas to-and-fro around the center, energy can be transported to the core through a mixing process, keeping the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-glittering-galaxies-captured-in-the-antlia-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gas</a> hot and the emissions bright. 



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



These remarkably precise measurements are a significant leap forward in our understanding of the formation and evolution of galactic clusters.



With years still left in the XRISM mission, the world of astrophysics eagerly awaits more insights into the changing nature of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-seen-creating-their-own-food-gases-x-rays-fascinating-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.



The ability to measure gas velocities with such high precision opens new doors for studying not just galaxy clusters but also other cosmic phenomena. Understanding how energy moves through space and how massive structures interact over time can help refine models of the universe’s evolution.



Future missions may build upon XRISM’s discoveries, using even more advanced technology to observe larger and more distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-galaxies-found-in-the-depths-of-the-spiderweb-protocluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clusters</a>. 



By continuing to study the motion of hot gas, astronomers hope to deepen their understanding of how the universe’s largest structures are shaped by time, gravity, and unseen forces.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08561-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit: JAXA



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Colliding galaxy clusters stir up hot, 'sloshing' gas

The universe is in a constant state of motion, shaped...

T cells play a crucial role in the body's fight against cancer, acting as the immune system's frontline defenders. 



However, scientists are still uncovering the many ways in which cancer weakens these vital cells, and limits their ability to attack malignant growths.



In a new study, researchers from <a href="https://amsterdamumc.org/en/organization/amsterdam-umc.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amsterdam UMC</a> and <a href="https://www.moffitt.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moffitt Cancer Center</a> have explored how leukemia disrupts the "energy management" of a patient's T cells.



Their findings provide fresh insights into why immune responses falter, and open the door to potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-t-cells-the-basics">Understanding T cells - the basics</h2>



T cells are like the body’s personal security team, constantly on the lookout for invaders like viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells. 



These immune system warriors come from the bone marrow but mature in the thymus (hence the “T” in their name).



 Once they're fully trained, they patrol the bloodstream, ready to recognize and attack anything that doesn’t belong. 



Some T cells act like detectives, identifying threats, while others go full attack mode, destroying infected cells before the problem spreads.



T cells don’t just fight infections also help the immune system remember past enemies. That’s why vaccines work - they train T cells to recognize specific threats so the body can respond faster next time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-crisis-in-t-cells">Energy crisis in T cells</h2>



In their study, the researchers examined chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) - the most prevalent form of leukemia in the Western world. They discovered that contact with CLL cells leads to a severe energy crisis in T cells.



Their findings not only shed light on the persistent challenge of treating this disease, particularly in elderly patients, but also potentially open up new avenues for the development of more effective treatments.



Unique to their research was the focus on T cell energy management, an aspect that is often overshadowed by the race to improve cancer cell identification by our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune system</a>.



T cells are critical elements in the body's internal defense mechanism and understanding how and why they falter is vital to improving cancer therapies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fueling-the-fight-against-cancer">Fueling the fight against cancer</h2>



The research team discovered that healthy T cells dramatically increase their cholesterol and fat absorption immediately after identifying their targets.



The fuel derived from this process enables these cells to multiply and maintain their offensive against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-thrives-on-human-stress-as-it-spreads-throughout-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> proliferation.



However, they lose this crucial ability when they come into close proximity with leukemia cells, thus undermining their effectiveness.



This critical finding supports the results of a parallel study that was conducted by the same team. It was shown that in CLL patients, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mitochondria-cells-batteries-leaking-causes-inflammation-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitochondria</a> - providers of energy for cellular functions - operate sub-optimally.



The impairment of the mitochondria reduces the ability of T cells to attack cancer cells effectively. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recharging-t-cells-for-greater-effectiveness">Recharging T cells for greater effectiveness</h2>



The researchers succeeded in re-energizing T cells in a promising attempt to enhance their operational efficiency. 



By utilizing an existing drug that affects energy management, they were able to significantly improve the effectiveness of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-cancers-defense-against-itself-using-novel-car-t-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAR T-cell therapy</a>, a treatment involving the redirection of a patient's own T cells against cancer cells.



"We hope this discovery will lead to improved success of CAR T-cell treatment in the future," shared Javier Pinilla-Ibarz M.D., Ph.D, the Senior member at Moffitt Cancer Center.



"This discovery brings us one step closer to making CAR T-cell treatment more successful for a greater number of patients."



More importantly, it opens the door for exploring similar strategies in other cancers where immune cells struggle to sustain their attack. 



By addressing the energy crisis in T cells, the team hopes to enhance immunotherapy across a wider range of cancers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-horizons-in-cancer-treatment">New horizons in cancer treatment</h2>



The researchers are ambitiously developing solutions to outsmart the disruptive effects of CLL on T cell energy management. 



The objective is to modify specific genes, thus making these immune cells more resistant and ensuring the continuous functionality of their fuel supply and "engine."



And the scope of this research extends far beyond CLL; if successful, the approach could be applied to the treatment of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-linked-to-32-cancer-types-that-could-drive-40-of-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other cancers</a>, expanding the reach and effectiveness of immunotherapy.



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



An international clinical trial has already shown promising results, revitalizing hope for more effective treatments. 



It demonstrated that combining a drug that reduces leukemia cell count, with a procedure that attracts T cells to cancer cells significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment.



This approach essentially tackles the cancer cells first, ensuring the body's immune functioning isn't initially compromised by the disease. 



It presents the potential for combination therapies that can be much more effective in battling various types of cancers.



Arnon Kater, professor of Translational Hematology at Amsterdam UMC, concluded that cancer's impact on immune cell metabolism disrupts the efficient energy supply that is critical for immune function.



These findings, therefore, have the potential to enhance existing treatments significantly, and bring us one step closer to winning the battle against cancer.



The full study was published in <a href="https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/doi/10.1182/blood.2024025525/535766/The-MURANO-study-final-analysis-and-retreatment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blood Journal</a>.



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Study learns how cancer cells highjack the immune system

T cells play a crucial role in the body's fight...

Humans instinctively attempt to revive unconscious individuals through first aid. A recent study suggests that mice display similar behaviors in an emergency.



Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine at USC observed that when a mouse became unresponsive, its companion reacted in ways that accelerated recovery.



For years, scientists have questioned whether animals exhibit emergency responses toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mice-offer-first-aid-to-unconscious-companions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unconscious peers</a>. 



“But this study is the first time we’re seeing a first responder-like behavior in mice,” noted Li Zhang, the study’s principal investigator and a professor of physiology and neuroscience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-mice-act-in-an-emergency">How mice act in an emergency</h2>



The study recorded how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-mice-turn-to-female-mice-to-avoid-fights-keep-social-peace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mice</a> engaged with unconscious peers using a machine-learning-based analysis. 



Their responses escalated from sniffing and grooming to more forceful actions such as biting the mouth or tongue and pulling it out. These behaviors resembled emergency actions seen in humans, such as clearing airways.



Wenjian Sun, the study’s first author and research associate at Keck School of Medicine’s <a href="https://keck.usc.edu/zilkha/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute</a>, said that he had never seen this behavior from mice before.



“The behavior was especially unique due to its similarity to how humans behave in emergency responses,” said Sun.



The discovery was made unexpectedly during an unrelated experiment. The pattern of escalating responses strongly suggested an instinctive effort to revive the unconscious peer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reviving-actions-and-their-impact">Reviving actions and their impact</h2>



The emergency response shown by these “helper mice” had measurable effects. 



Huizhong Tao, a professor of physiology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-new-way-to-suppress-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neuroscience</a> and co-author of the study, noted that mice targeting the mouth and tongue of an unconscious peer often sped up recovery.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mice_perform-first-aid_credit-USC_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mice_perform-first-aid_credit-USC_1s.webp" alt="In two independent studies, W. Sun et al. and F. Sun et al. showed that mice exhibit stereotyped behaviors toward unconscious conspecifics, escalating from sniffing and grooming to licking of the head and tongue pulling, which accelerated recovery from unconsciousness. Credit: USC/Science" class="wp-image-1961947"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In two independent studies, W. Sun et al. and F. Sun et al. showed that mice exhibit stereotyped behaviors toward unconscious conspecifics, escalating from sniffing and grooming to licking of the head and tongue pulling, which accelerated recovery from unconsciousness. Credit: USC/Science</figcaption></figure>



This behavior was not aggressive. The researchers found that once an unconscious mouse regained awareness, it displayed normal tongue function.



The study also showed that the behavior occurred primarily between familiar pairs and was rare when a mouse was simply sleeping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxytocin-drives-the-emergency-response">Oxytocin drives the emergency response</h2>



Using neural imaging and optogenetics, researchers explored the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mouse-with-two-dads-survives-to-adulthood-major-implications-for-same-sex-human-couples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain activity</a> linked to these responses. 



Zhang and the team found that oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus showed increased activity when mice encountered an unconscious partner. Oxytocin, commonly associated with bonding, appeared to play a key role in triggering the emergency response.



Oxytocin neurons responded differently based on whether the partner was unconscious or active. Specific neurons activated during particular actions, such as tongue-pulling. 



The study also demonstrated that stimulating oxytocin neurons increased reviving behaviors, while blocking oxytocin signaling reduced them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shared-instinct-across-species">A shared instinct across species</h2>



The findings suggest that reviving behaviors may be common among social species. The study showed that mice reacting to unconscious peers acted instinctively in an emergency situation rather than out of mere curiosity. 



The behavioral sequence resembled emergency responses seen in other animals, including primates.



The researchers believe this behavior helps maintain group cohesion and increases survival chances in social species. Tao pointed out that future studies will investigate whether mice exhibit even more complex responses over longer periods.



This discovery sheds light on prosocial instincts in mammals, highlighting how emergency behaviors may have evolved to strengthen social bonds and improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-decisions-are-shaped-by-optimistic-and-pessimistic-neurons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prosocial-behavior-in-animals">Prosocial behavior in animals</h2>



The research team plans to conduct further studies to explore whether mice exhibit even more complex behaviors over extended periods. 



Tao believes this discovery provides an exciting opportunity to investigate the biological foundations of empathy and social assistance in animals.



Future experiments will examine how these emergency responses develop, whether they vary between different strains of mice, and if similar behaviors occur in other rodent species. 



Researchers also aim to explore whether these behaviors can be influenced by external factors, such as changes in social environment or hormonal manipulation.



Understanding the neural mechanisms behind prosocial behaviors in animals may have broader implications for human health. 



Studying how oxytocin influences emergency responses could lead to insights into conditions where social behaviors are impaired, such as autism or social anxiety disorders.



In addition to Sun, Zhang, and Tao, the study included contributions from Guangwei Zhang, Junxiang J. Huang, Can Tao, and Michelle B. Seo of Keck School of Medicine.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq2677" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Mice perform first-aid and save unconscious peers in emergencies

Humans instinctively attempt to revive unconscious individuals through first aid....

Scientists have determined that around 14 million years ago, our Solar System traveled through a densely populated galactic region and might have experienced increased interstellar dust, which could have influenced Earth’s climate and left signals in geologic layers.



An international research team has uncovered this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interstellar-tunnel-found-that-connects-our-solar-system-to-other-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journey</a> through the Orion star-forming complex, part of the Radcliffe Wave structure.



The experts propose that the Solar System’s passage through this zone could have briefly compressed the heliosphere - the protective bubble surrounding our planetary system - and delivered a greater influx of cosmic material into Earth’s vicinity.&nbsp;



“Imagine it like a ship sailing through varying conditions at sea,” explained Efrem Maconi, lead author and doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a>. 



“Our Sun encountered a region of higher gas density as it passed through the Radcliffe Wave in the Orion constellation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-system-s-passage-through-orion">Solar System’s passage through Orion</h2>



Using data from the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Gaia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gaia mission</a>, along with spectroscopic observations, Maconi’s team concluded that this crossing took place about 14 million years ago. 



“This discovery builds upon our previous work identifying the Radcliffe Wave,” said João Alves, professor of astrophysics at the University of Vienna and co-author of the study.&nbsp;



The Radcliffe Wave itself is a large-scale, thread-like formation composed of interlinked star-forming zones, of which the Orion complex is a crucial component.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_solar-system_Radcliffe-wave_credit-Harvard_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_solar-system_Radcliffe-wave_credit-Harvard_1s.webp" alt="The Radcliffe wave. The clouds that comprise this structure are highlighted in red and superimposed on an artist's illustration of the Milky Way. The location of the Sun is highlighted by the yellow dot. Credit: Alyssa A. Goodman/Harvard University" class="wp-image-1961655"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Radcliffe wave. The clouds that comprise this structure are highlighted in red and superimposed on an artist's illustration of the Milky Way. The location of the Sun is highlighted by the yellow dot. Credit: Alyssa A. Goodman/Harvard University</figcaption></figure>



“We passed through the Orion region as well-known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-origins-of-young-star-clusters-traced-to-three-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> like NGC 1977, NGC 1980, and NGC 1981 were forming,” noted Professor Alves.&nbsp;



“This region is easily visible in the winter sky in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Look for the Orion constellation and the Orion Nebula (Messier 42) - our solar system came from that direction!”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-that-may-still-be-detectable">Changes that may still be detectable</h2>



During that galactic encounter, Earth would have been exposed to extra amounts of dust. 



The scientists propose that such material may have penetrated the planet’s atmosphere, depositing layers that might still be detectable in core samples or other subterranean records. 



“While current technology may not be sensitive enough to detect these traces, future detectors could make it possible,” said Professor Alves.



This timing roughly correlates with the Middle Miocene Climate Transition, a period marking Earth’s shift from a warm, fluctuating climate to a cooler, more stable one marked by extensive ice formation in Antarctica.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-dust-and-earth-s-climate-nbsp">Interstellar dust and Earth's climate&nbsp;</h2>



Though many factors, including changes in carbon dioxide levels, likely dominated the world’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/looking-to-earths-ancient-climate-to-predict-our-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> shifts, the authors entertain the notion that cosmic dust from the Orion crossing might have played a supporting part.



“While the underlying processes responsible for the Middle Miocene Climate Transition are not entirely identified, the available reconstructions suggest that a long-term decrease in the atmospheric greenhouse gas carbon dioxide concentration is the most likely explanation, although large uncertainties exist,” Maconi explained.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_Orion-belt_credit-ESA-NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_Orion-belt_credit-ESA-NASA_1s.webp" alt="The Orion Belt. Davide De Martin &amp; the ESA/ESO/NASA Photoshop FITS Liberator" class="wp-image-1961651"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Orion Belt. Davide De Martin &amp; the ESA/ESO/NASA Photoshop FITS Liberator</figcaption></figure>



“However, our study highlights that interstellar dust related to the crossing of the Radcliffe Wave might have impacted Earth’s climate and potentially played a role during this climate transition."&nbsp;



Maconi noted that, in order to alter the Earth’s climate, the amount of extraterrestrial dust on Earth would need to be much bigger than what the data so far suggest. He said that future research will explore the significance of this contribution.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-changes-vs-modern-warming">Past changes vs. modern warming</h2>



The experts emphasized that while the Solar System’s trip through Orion may have corresponded with a significant climate phase, it cannot explain the rapid temperature rise currently seen.&nbsp;



Any climate effect from interstellar dust would have taken place slowly, unlike the abrupt, human-caused changes unfolding in the present era.



"It’s crucial to note that this past climate transition and current climate change are not comparable since the Middle Miocene Climate Transition unfolded over timescales of several hundred thousand years," said Maconi. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_Orion-constellation_Vienna_Credit-Harvard_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/milky-way_Orion-constellation_Vienna_Credit-Harvard_1s.webp" alt="The Orion constellation. The main stars of this constellation are connected by straight blue lines and some of them are labelled by their name. The Orion Nebula (M 42) is identified by the red square. Credit: Stellarium (GNU), Edited by Efrem Maconi" class="wp-image-1961653"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Orion constellation. The main stars of this constellation are connected by straight blue lines and some of them are labelled by their name. The Orion Nebula (M 42) is identified by the red square. Credit: Stellarium (GNU), Edited by Efrem Maconi</figcaption></figure>



"In contrast, the current global warming evolution is happening at an unprecedented rate over decades to centuries due to human activity."



Still, the notion that cosmic events can appear in Earth’s geological and climatic record opens fresh opportunities for interdisciplinary studies.&nbsp;



Astronomers, geologists, and paleoclimatologists could cooperate more closely to discern whether certain geological anomalies or isotopic variations align with the ancient crossing identified in this work.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-influences-on-earth-s-climate">Subtle influences on Earth's climate </h2>



“This study is important because it adds a small puzzle piece to the recent history of the Solar System, helping to place it in the context of the Milky Way. We are inhabitants of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-black-hole-unleashes-mysterious-flares/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>,” said Professor Alves.&nbsp;



“The European Space Agency’s Gaia Mission has given us the means to trace our recent route in the Milky Way’s interstellar sea, allowing astronomers to compare notes with geologists and paleoclimatologists. It’s very exciting.”



Going forward, the team plans to investigate the specific cosmic environment that the Sun encountered throughout its voyage, focusing on how repeated passages through dense star-forming pockets might intermittently shape Earth’s geological past.&nbsp;



By integrating the latest measurements of cosmic dust, radiometric dating, and climate modeling, they hope to build a clearer narrative of how galactic movements intersect with planetary evolutions.&nbsp;



This research highlights that while Earth's climate is shaped by forces on our planet, the Sun’s journey through the galaxy can also exert subtle yet fascinating influences.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202452061" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a>.&nbsp;



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Earth's journey through the Milky Way may have altered our climate

Scientists have determined that around 14 million years ago, our...

Long before the first rays of sunlight brushed the California horizon, an extraordinary homecoming took place. The U.S. military’s experimental space plane, the X-37B, touched down in secrecy, its journey ending just as mysteriously as it began. 



After spending 434 days orbiting Earth, the un-crewed vehicle returned to <a href="https://www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vandenberg Space Force Base</a>. Only hours later did officials acknowledge the event, leaving the world once again questioning the true purpose of this enigmatic program.



This was no ordinary spacecraft mission. Launched in December 2023 from NASA’s <a href="https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kennedy Space Center</a>, the X-37B carried no astronauts - only classified experiments. <a href="https://www.spacex.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SpaceX</a> provided the lift into orbit, but after that, the miniature shuttle’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-spacecraft-set-out-to-drill-for-water-on-the-moons-south-pole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activities</a> remained largely hidden from public view.



Now back on solid ground, its journey fuels speculation about what tests and technologies were refined during its extended stay above the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-military-space-plane-returns">Military space plane returns </h2>



Unlike traditional crewed missions, this space plane slipped into the sky without public fanfare. No live-streamed countdown, no astronauts waving goodbye. 



The X-37B’s launch was marked only by the fire of its rocket engines as it left Earth behind. What followed was more than a year of silent travel, its purpose known only to those with the highest security clearance.



When it finally returned, there was no grand welcome. The spacecraft glided through the darkness, unseen by most, until its wheels met the runway in the pre-dawn hours. The U.S. <a href="https://www.spaceforce.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Force</a> released no immediate statements. 



Only later did images surface - grainy photos of the black-and-white vehicle resting on the airstrip, an unspoken testament to its long and mysterious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-a-planet-k2-22b-disintegrating-at-a-speed-never-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">voyage</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-achievement-revealed">Key achievement revealed</h2>



Each mission by the X-37B adds another layer to its reputation as one of the most advanced unmanned spacecraft in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-majestic-rings-will-vanish-next-week-ring-plane-crossing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">existence</a>.



This time, the military emphasized a key achievement: the ability to change orbits using atmospheric drag rather than burning large amounts of fuel. This technique, if perfected, could allow spacecraft to operate with greater endurance while maintaining the agility to adjust their paths as needed.



"It's an exciting new chapter in the X-37B program," stated program director Lt. Colonel Blaine Stewart.



Though details remain scarce, the ability to shift orbits efficiently hints at future advancements in both reconnaissance and long-duration spaceflight. The implications for national security and scientific research could be profound.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pushing-the-limits-of-space-exploration">Pushing the limits of space exploration</h2>



The X-37B program has been in operation since 2010, with each mission pushing the limits of unmanned space endurance. While this most recent flight lasted 434 days, previous ones have stretched even longer, with a 908-day mission holding the record.



The vehicle itself is small by spacecraft standards, measuring just 29 feet in length with a wingspan of nearly 15 feet. Its design resembles a miniature version of NASA’s retired space shuttles, though the X-37B operates entirely without human crew. 



Boeing engineers crafted it for repeated use, making it one of the few reusable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spaceship-thruster-technology-fueled-by-any-type-of-metal-could-fly-indefinitely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> planes in existence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrecy-of-the-military-space-mission">Secrecy of the military space mission</h2>



A recently released image from 2024 captures a rare perspective from the spacecraft itself. Taken by the X-37B’s onboard camera, the photograph showcases Earth as seen from high Earth orbit. 



Though beautiful, the image also raises questions. What experiments were conducted in such a remote region of&nbsp;space? What new technologies were tested on the&nbsp;military space plane, far from prying eyes?



With secrecy surrounding much of the mission, speculation runs wild. Some believe the vehicle is testing new surveillance systems. Others suspect advancements in satellite deployment or military-grade communications technology. 



Whatever the case, its prolonged stay in orbit suggests complex research that could shape the future of space operations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-frontiers-of-technology">New frontiers of technology </h2>



What lies ahead for the X-37B remains unknown to all but a select few. 



The lessons learned from this mission will likely inform future flights, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in long-term, unmanned space travel. Each journey seems to last longer, venture farther, and test new frontiers of technology.



For now, the&nbsp;military space plane&nbsp;sits safely back on Earth, its secrets locked away. But it will not stay grounded forever. 



Somewhere in the future, a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-will-search-for-signs-of-life-on-jupiters-icy-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space mission</a>&nbsp;awaits, another launch in the darkness, another journey without an audience, and another silent return to a world eager for answers.



Image Credit: United States Space Force.



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What was it doing? U.S. space plane returns after 14 mysterious months

Long before the first rays of sunlight brushed the California...

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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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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 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



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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...

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