The loud noise came from Funk’s backup. They brought an enormous crane and pillars with them. They were ready to lift the huge boulder. To maintain the rock&#8217;s stability, they dug beneath it and attached wooden planks. Funk tried his best to aid the men. He felt sweat dripping from his forehead. He became engrossed in what he saw and couldn&#8217;t tear his gaze away from this perplexing abnormality.

Backup Arrived

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



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



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



The galaxy is notable for its relatively young appearance and the fact that it contains very few heavy elements. These characteristics indicate that it has experienced little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> compared to other galaxies of similar age.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features massive amounts of smoke rising from multiple wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;



The largest blaze is the Palisades Fire, which ignited near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles on January 7, 2025.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-wildfire-conditions">Explosive wildfire conditions</h2>



The Palisades Fire spread rapidly due to severe drought conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour.&nbsp;



Within hours, the fire expanded from 200 acres to over 2,900 acres, threatening thousands of structures and prompting mandatory evacuations for thousands of residents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-ferocious-winds-in-years">Most ferocious winds in years</h2>



A report from Fox Weather noted: “More than 260,000 people are under some sort of evacuation statement as multiple uncontained wildfires consume everything in their path.”



The news agency said that the fires are fueled by the “most ferocious Santa Ana winds in over 14 years.” The report further noted that “the level of destruction extends both north and south along the coast, with hurricane-force winds that are incredibly strong, dry, and unpredictable.”&nbsp;



As of January 8, the Palisades Fire had rapidly exploded to over 5,000 acres and remained uncontained. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.&nbsp;



“This image captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission vividly depicts the smoke billowing from the fire near Santa Monica at 10:36 local time on January 7, 2025, not long after the fire broke out. The blaze has since caused widespread damage and concern,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_ablaze" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-damage-and-concern">Widespread damage and concern</h2>



The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has deployed over 1,400 firefighters to combat the blaze. However, the intense winds have hindered aerial firefighting efforts, as aircraft were grounded for safety reasons.&nbsp;



The fire has destroyed more than 1,000 structures, including several homes in Malibu, and has led to significant traffic congestion as residents evacuate the area.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warning-for-extreme-fire-behavior-nbsp">Warning for extreme fire behavior&nbsp;</h2>



On Monday, before the fires broke out, the weather service office in Los Angeles warned that wind gusts could reach 100 miles per hour in some areas this week - creating the potential for "extreme fire behavior.” 



In addition to the Palisades Fire, three other significant blazes include the Eaton Fire in the Altadena region and the Hurst Fire in northern Sylmar. These fires have prompted further evacuations and continue to threaten numerous structures.&nbsp;



"L.A. County and all 29 fire departments in our county are not prepared for this type of widespread disaster," LA County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said at a news conference. "There are not enough firefighters in L.A. County to address four separate fires of this magnitude."



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



High wind warnings and red flag warnings in effect across the region indicate that the critical fire weather conditions are ongoing.&nbsp;



Residents are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to evacuation orders, and stay informed through official channels as the situation evolves.



"Winds will not die down much until noon on Wednesday around Los Angeles," said meteorologist Ryan Maue on X. "The worst is yet to come in next few hours with 80-105 mph gusts. This is a hurricane of fire."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-in-southern-california-nbsp">Wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;</h2>



Wildfires in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;



Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving flames rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area's diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;



Furthermore, Southern California’s growing urban footprint increases the risk of fires igniting due to human activity, while also placing more people and infrastructure in harm’s way.&nbsp;



Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly destructive.



—----



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Explosive wildfires in California fueled by hurricane-force winds

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Ksudach, a remarkable volcanic complex located on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.



“The peninsula is one of the world’s most active volcanic arcs due to tectonic plate movement, with the Pacific Plate subducting under the Eurasian Plate,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153779/ksudachs-nested-calderas-and-craters" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-eruptions-of-ksudach">Explosive eruptions of Ksudach</h2>



Ksudach is classified as a shield <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-camera-helps-scientists-forecast-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> due to the gentle slopes formed by its extensive lava flows. The combination of its shield-like structure and the prominent caldera system makes Ksudach a unique volcanic feature on the Kamchatka Peninsula.



“Several overlapping calderas and craters comprise the volcano. Calderas are large, bowl-shaped depressions created by the collapse of overlying material into an emptied subsurface magma chamber,” explained NASA.



“Craters are circular depressions created by volcanic activity, surface impacts, or explosions.”



This volcanic system has a fascinating geological history shaped by multiple explosive eruptions.&nbsp;



The most significant of these occurred around 240 AD, leaving behind a prominent caldera that now hosts scenic crater lakes, such as Lake Ksudach. 



“Lakes within the volcanic region are primarily recharged by rain and snowmelt from the winter season. This photo shows the water’s contrasting blue hues surrounded by green vegetation,” noted NASA.



“Traces of snow fill valleys within and outside the volcano’s caldera complex. These snow-covered areas highlight the drainage patterns from higher to lower elevations. Water that flows through these erosional pathways and into the caldera supports its vegetation and lakes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-landscape-of-ksudach-nbsp">Unique landscape of Ksudach&nbsp;</h2>



Ksudach's landscape also features pyroclastic deposits, lava flows, and hydrothermal features like fumaroles.&nbsp;



The surrounding environment - which is part of the UNESCO-listed Kamchatka Volcanoes - supports a diverse ecosystem with unique wildlife. 



Despite its remote location, Ksudach has drawn the attention of geologists, offering insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic processes</a> and the dynamics of caldera formation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-earth-s-geology-nbsp">Dynamic nature of Earth's geology&nbsp;</h2>



The most well-documented eruption of Ksudach occurred in March 1907. This eruption ranks as one of the largest in Kamchatka in the 20th century, with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 5.



The eruption produced a colossal ash column that soared into the stratosphere, dispersing fine particles over vast distances and contributing to global atmospheric changes.&nbsp;



The sheer force of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/icelands-volcanic-eruptions-may-continue-for-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruption</a> unleashed pyroclastic flows - fast-moving avalanches of hot gas, ash, and volcanic debris - that raced down the volcano's slopes, obliterating everything in their path.&nbsp;



These flows, capable of reaching temperatures over 1,000°C, decimated vegetation and altered the topography of the surrounding region.&nbsp;



Simultaneously, tephra deposits blanketed the landscape in layers of thick volcanic material, smothering ecosystems and creating a barren wasteland.&nbsp;



Today, Ksudach is considered an active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> but remains dormant. The region is closely monitored due to its potential for renewed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pacific-ring-of-fire-nbsp">Pacific Ring of Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The Kamchatka Peninsula lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped zone encircling the Pacific Ocean where tectonic activity is highly concentrated.&nbsp;



This geologically dynamic area features numerous volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, and frequent seismic activity - making it a hotspot for both natural beauty and scientific study. 



Kamchatka is home to over 160 volcanoes, with about 30 considered active, including Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the highest and one of the most active in the region.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-activity-nbsp">Volcanic activity&nbsp;</h3>



As the Pacific Plate dives into the Earth's mantle, it melts and generates magma that feeds Kamchatka’s volcanic systems.&nbsp;



This ongoing tectonic interaction also contributes to the broader activity of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which accounts for approximately 75% of the world's active and dormant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> and about 90% of its earthquakes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-significance-nbsp">Broader significance&nbsp;</h3>



Beyond its geological significance, the Kamchatka Peninsula boasts a diverse ecosystem that is home to animals such as snow sheep, brown bears, red foxes, and unique plants that are adapted to its harsh environment. 



The coastal waters surrounding the peninsula support various fish species, including abundant salmon, as well as sea lions and killer whales.



The interplay of volcanic landscapes and pristine wilderness makes it a natural laboratory for understanding Earth's dynamic processes.



The image was captured by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Ksudach: A volcano shaped by explosive forces

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the Aladaghlar Mountains in northwestern Iran.



These <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> are known for their strikingly colorful landscapes, which make them stand out among other mountain ranges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscape-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Landscape of the Aladaghlar Mountains</h2>



"Ridges cast shadows in the valleys and other low elevation areas, creating a three-dimensional appearance. Human alterations to the landscape are most evident in riverbeds, where the even topography is easier to build on and navigate," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"Natural processes over millions of years have folded rock layers of various compositions and colors into the curved patterns seen here. These folds are produced by tectonic forces operating along the convergent plate boundary of the Arabia and Eurasia plates." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rainbow-mountains">The Rainbow Mountains</h2>



One of the most remarkable features of the Aladaghlar Mountains is the vivid coloration of their slopes. 



The name "Aladaghlar" translates to "colorful mountains," which is a testament to their unique appearance.&nbsp;They are also known as the Rainbow Mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Wildlife of the Aladaghlar Mountains </h2>



The Aladaghlar Mountains are part of a larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-ecosystems-are-in-urgent-need-of-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> that includes forests, meadows, and rivers, contributing to a rich biodiversity. 



The region supports a variety of wildlife, including several species that are unique to the area. The diverse wildlife add to the natural beauty and ecological importance of these <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>.



Among the larger mammals, the mountains host species such as brown bears, Persian leopards, and wild goats. The Aladaghlar Mountains also support smaller mammals, including foxes, hares, and various rodent species.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-influence-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birdlife</a> is abundant, including eagles, falcons, and a variety of songbirds. Reptiles like lizards and snakes are commonly found in the more humid areas, as well as amphibians.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-region">Cultural significance of the region</h2>



In addition to their natural appeal, the Aladaghlar Mountains hold cultural significance. The region has a rich history, with evidence of ancient civilizations and historical sites. 



Local communities have their unique cultures and traditions, which have been influenced by the natural environment of the mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geology-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains-nbsp">Geology of the Aladaghlar Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



The geological history of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-both-carbon-sinks-and-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is a fascinating tale of millions of years of natural processes.



The Aladaghlar Mountains are primarily composed of sedimentary rocks that have accumulated over millions of years. These sediments include sandstones, siltstones, shales, and conglomerates.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mineral-deposition-nbsp">Mineral deposition&nbsp;</h3>



The varying colors of the Aladaghlar Mountains are largely due to the presence of different minerals in the sedimentary layers. For example, red and orange hues are typically due to iron oxides, while greens can result from copper compounds.



These minerals were deposited in the sedimentary rocks through processes such as chemical precipitation, biological activity, and the weathering of parent rocks.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tectonic-activity">Tectonic activity</h3>



The region has experienced significant tectonic activity due to its location near the convergent boundary between the Arabian and Eurasian plates. This tectonic activity has caused the uplift and folding of the sedimentary layers, creating the mountain range.



The compression and folding associated with tectonic movements have also contributed to the exposure of the colorful strata that were originally deposited horizontally.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erosion-and-weathering">Erosion and weathering</h3>



Over time, erosion and weathering processes have played a crucial role in shaping the Aladaghlar Mountains. 



Wind, water, and temperature variations have eroded the softer rock layers more quickly than the harder ones, creating the distinctive ridges and valleys seen today.



These erosive processes have also helped to expose the underlying layers, revealing the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that attract tourists and geologists alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tales and legends</h2>



One of the most famous tales associated with the Aladaghlar Mountains is that of a hidden treasure buried deep within the mountains by an ancient Persian king.&nbsp;



According to legend, the treasure is guarded by mystical creatures and can only be found by someone pure of heart and brave enough to face the challenges of the mountain.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The shepherd and the fairy</h3>



Another local legend tells the story of a young shepherd who fell in love with a fairy he encountered in the Aladaghlar Mountains. The fairy granted the shepherd three wishes, but warned him that the wishes would come with consequences.&nbsp;



Despite the warning, the shepherd made his wishes, which ultimately led to his downfall, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The healing springs</h3>



The Aladaghlar Mountains are also said to be home to a spring with magical healing properties. According to folklore, those who bathe in the spring or drink its water are cured of all ailments.&nbsp;



However, the location of the spring is a closely guarded secret, known only to a few wise elders in the nearby villages.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The spirit of the mountain&nbsp;</h3>



Some locals believe that the Aladaghlar Mountains are inhabited by a protective spirit, who watches over the land and its people.&nbsp;



This spirit is said to bring good fortune to those who respect the mountain and its natural beauty, but misfortune to those who exploit or harm it.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Aladaghlar Mountains of northwestern Iran

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Klinaklini Glacier, located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada.



Klinaklini Glacier is notable for its size and the role it plays in the regional environment. It is part of a larger system of glaciers and ice fields in the area, which are critical for their contribution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a> resources and their influence on local climate conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-klinaklini-glacier-and-climate-change">Klinaklini Glacier and climate change</h2>



Klinaklini is particularly interesting due to its dynamics and response to climate change. Like many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> around the world, it is being closely monitored for changes in its size, flow, and overall health. 



Glaciers in the Coast Mountains, including Klinaklini, have been studied for their response to global warming, with many showing signs of retreat and reduced ice mass.



"Decades of satellite images of western Canada make it clear that the region’s glaciers are shrinking and that the rate of ice loss is accelerating," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"In 1984, there were 14,329 glaciers in British Columbia and Alberta that were large enough to detect with sensors on the Landsat 5 satellite."



"By 2020, nearly 8 percent of them - 1,141 glaciers - had shrunk so much that newer Landsat sensors could no longer distinguish them, according to research conducted by University of Northern British Columbia glaciologists Alexandre Bevington and Brian Menounos."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-the-klinaklini-glacier">Ecological role of the Klinaklini Glacier </h2>



Klinaklini Glacier also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It feeds into the Klinaklini River, which is an important waterway for the region. 



The river supports a variety of wildlife, including salmon populations that are vital both ecologically and economically for local communities.



Studies conducted on and around the Klinaklini Glacier contribute to the understanding of glaciology, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and hydrology. 



This research is essential for predicting future changes in the glacier and for understanding the broader impacts of climate change on glacial systems globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coast-mountains-of-british-columbia">Coast Mountains of British Columbia </h2>



The Coast Mountains of British Columbia are a striking and expansive mountain range forming part of the Pacific Coast Ranges in western North America. 



Stretching approximately 1,600 kilometers from the Fraser River near Vancouver in the south to the Yukon Territory in the north, the range is known for its rugged beauty and significant ecological and cultural importance.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-of-the-mountains">Geography of the mountains</h3>



Geographically, the Coast Mountains are positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Interior Plateau to the east.



They are divided into three main sections: the Pacific Ranges in the south, the Kitimat Ranges in the central region, and the Boundary Ranges in the north, which extend into Alaska and Yukon. 



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



The range's dramatic landscapes include steep peaks, fjords, and valleys carved by ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-release-vast-quantities-of-unknown-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>, highlighting the lasting influence of glaciation on the region.



Geologically, the Coast Mountains are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, formed by volcanic and tectonic activity. 



Their granitic composition is a result of millions of years of geological processes. Mount Waddington, the highest peak in the range at 4,019 meters, stands as a notable landmark in the Pacific Ranges.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-wildlife">Climate and wildlife</h3>



The climate of the Coast Mountains varies significantly depending on location. The western slopes are characterized by a temperate rainforest climate, with high levels of precipitation brought by moist Pacific air. 



In contrast, the eastern slopes are drier, with semi-arid conditions in some areas. This climatic diversity supports a wide range of ecosystems, from lush coastal rainforests to alpine tundra. 



The region is home to diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/outdoor-recreation-noise-triggers-fear-response-in-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, and numerous bird species.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recreation-and-culture">Recreation and culture</h3>



The Coast Mountains are a popular destination for recreation and tourism. Activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering draw visitors from around the world - particularly to destinations like Whistler, a renowned resort town in the Pacific Ranges. 



The fjords and valleys of the range provide opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic exploration.



Indigenous peoples, including the Tlingit, Tsimshian, Haida, and Squamish, have lived in and around the Coast Mountains for millennia. 



These groups maintain a deep connection to the land, reflected in their stories, traditions, and art. The mountains are not only a physical presence but also a vital cultural and spiritual landscape.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Klinaklini Glacier in British Columbia

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

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

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

Heavy snow and cloud cover in the Alps

Monitoring Earth Changes with MODIS

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

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

A frozen Lake Erie in February

Aqua Earth Observing Satellite

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

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

Super Typhoon Noru in the Pacific Ocean

Incredible Images of Earth from Space

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

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

Northern Italy from the Space Station

Photos from the International Space Station

When we think of airport neighborhoods, we often imagine the hustle and bustle and the constant sounds of take-offs and landings. However, a recent study led by researchers at the University College London (UCL) highlights an unseen, alarming health risk to those living in such areas: a heightened chance of heart problems.



The study reveals a concerning link between high aircraft noise exposure and poor heart function, increased risks of heart attacks and strokes, and life-threatening heart rhythms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-health-after-living-near-airports">Heart health after living near airports</h2>



The researchers examined 3,635 individuals who resided near major airports in England - specifically Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, and Manchester.



The goal was to assess whether people living in areas with higher aircraft noise levels have decreased heart health when compared to those who live in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-environments-and-sidewalks-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quieter neighborhoods</a>.



Focusing on heart imaging data, the researchers found a significant association between exposure to higher levels of noise from airports and changes in heart structure and function.



Individuals exposed to more aircraft noise had heart muscles that were less flexible and thicker. These changes make the heart less effective at contracting and expanding, which impaired its ability to pump blood efficiently.



Furthermore, the observed structural changes in the heart translated into reduced overall efficiency in circulating blood throughout the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aircraft-noise-at-night">Aircraft noise at night</h2>



The study highlighted that night-time aircraft noise had an even more pronounced impact. This could be due to disruptions in sleep, which is crucial for maintaining heart health, as well as the likelihood of longer exposure during nighttime when people are typically at home.



“Our study is observational so we cannot say with certainty that high levels of aircraft noise caused these differences in heart structure and function," explained senior author Dr. Gaby Captur.



"However, our findings add to a growing body of evidence that aircraft noise can adversely affect heart health." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-impact-of-aircraft-noise">Broader impact of aircraft noise </h2>



Noise pollution can trigger stress responses and over-activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to elevated blood pressure and the release of stress hormones like cortisol. These factors can contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-disease-patients-have-a-unique-vulnerability-to-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart abnormalities</a>, inflammation, and atherosclerosis.



“Aircraft noise at night has been shown to affect sleep quality, and this may be an important factor affecting health,” added Professor Anna Hansell of the <a href="https://le.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a>.



The experts estimate that individuals with heart abnormalities linked to aircraft noise may face up to four times the risk of major cardiac events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-exposure-to-aircraft-noise">Mitigating exposure to aircraft noise </h2>



The study’s findings emphasize the critical need for action by both government and industry to mitigate aircraft noise exposure, particularly for protecting the heart health of communities near airports. 



High noise levels are not just a nuisance but a potential public health risk, with direct links to cardiovascular problems.



Dr. Cristian Topriceanu, the study’s first author, explained that noise exposure can trigger various health issues that, in turn, impact heart health. 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Increased BMI (Body Mass Index):&nbsp;noise-related stress and disrupted sleep can contribute to weight gain, a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk factor for heart disease</a>.</li>



<li>Higher blood pressure:&nbsp;prolonged noise exposure can activate stress responses, raising blood pressure and straining the heart.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-heart-health-near-airports">Protecting heart health near airports</h2>



Given these risks, Professor Anna Hansell stressed the importance of adopting lifestyle measures to protect heart health, regardless of noise exposure. She recommended the following preventive strategies



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>A balanced diet: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruits-and-vegetables-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eating nutrient-rich foods</a> supports overall cardiovascular health.</li>



<li>Regular physical activity: Exercise strengthens the heart and helps maintain a healthy weight.</li>



<li>Managing chronic conditions: Keeping conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure under control minimizes strain on the heart.</li>
</ul>



These measures not only reduce the risk of heart disease but also build resilience against stressors like environmental noise. 



While individual efforts are vital, the study calls for systemic interventions to address the root causes of noise pollution and its health impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-damaging-impact-of-noise-pollution">Damaging impact of noise pollution </h2>



“This innovative study reveals the potential invisible impact for those living close to some of our biggest travel hubs," said Professor James Leiper from the <a href="https://www.bhf.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Heart Foundation</a>.



"While observational studies like this can’t prove cause and effect, these findings add to previous research showing the damaging impact of noise pollution on our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-healthy-habits-can-reverse-your-biological-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a>."



The study highlights the need for further research and immediate action to address noise pollution. For those living near airports, understanding these risks is the first step toward safeguarding long-term heart health.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0735109724097973?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American College of Cardiology</a>. 



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Living near an airport could damage your heart

When we think of airport neighborhoods, we often imagine the...

A study of more than 40,000 American adults has revealed that the timing of coffee consumption is likely just as important as how much coffee we consume when it comes to living a longer life.



The research builds on earlier work linking moderate coffee intake to various health benefits, including reduced chances of Type 2 diabetes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-attack-deaths-spike-during-the-winter-holidays/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart attacks</a>, and strokes. 



While previous studies focused on how much coffee people consume, this one zoomed in on when they drink it - and the results could prompt some individuals to rethink their coffee routines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-timing-and-health-outcomes">Coffee timing and health outcomes</h2>



“Research so far suggests that drinking coffee doesn’t raise the risk of heart disease, and it seems to lower the risk of some chronic diseases,” explained Lu Qi, a professor at the <a href="https://sph.tulane.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tulane University School of Public Health</a>.&nbsp;



“Given the effects that caffeine has on our bodies, we wanted to see if the time of day when you drink coffee has any impact on heart health.”



Together with collaborators from <a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health</a> and <a href="https://www.gwu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Washington University</a>, Qi analyzed coffee consumption patterns among tens of thousands of adults. 



The experts classified coffee drinkers into two key groups: morning-type drinkers, who consume most of their coffee between 4 a.m. and noon (36% of the participants) and all-day-type drinkers, who spread their coffee intake from morning into the evening (14% of participants). The remaining 48% did not drink coffee at all.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-morning-coffee-has-the-most-benefits">Morning coffee has the most benefits</h2>



The experts found that those who get their caffeine fix in the early hours have the most benefits. The research followed participants for just under 10 years.



The analysis revealed that morning coffee drinkers showed a 16% lower risk of death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease, compared to individuals who consumed no coffee. 



In contrast, people who drank <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-coffee-good-for-you-it-may-depend-on-your-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> consistently throughout the day did not display significant mortality reductions.



The study, published in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/advance-article/doi/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae871/7928425" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Heart Journal</a>, also showed that these benefits were strongest at moderate intake levels. Among morning coffee drinkers, those who had two to three cups per day reduced their all-cause mortality risk by 29% relative to non-drinkers. 



Even heavy coffee consumers (over three cups daily) showed a 21% lower mortality risk, while light drinkers (one cup or less) saw a 15% reduction. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-heart-health-benefits">Powerful heart health benefits</h2>



The benefits were especially noticeable in heart health: moderate morning drinkers recorded a 48% decrease in heart-related deaths, with heavy drinkers at 39% and light drinkers at 35%.



These associations remained strong even after the scientists accounted for other factors such as&nbsp; age, sex, race, income, education, smoking status, and pre-existing health conditions.



“This is the first study testing coffee drinking timing patterns and health outcomes,” Qi said. 



"Our findings indicate that it’s not just whether you drink coffee or how much you drink, but the time of day when you drink coffee that’s important. We don’t typically give advice about timing in our dietary guidance, but perhaps we should be thinking about this in the future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-morning-coffee-may-be-best">Why morning coffee may be best</h2>



Researchers propose two main mechanisms to explain why morning coffee could offer more pronounced benefits.&nbsp;



First, late-day coffee drinking may disturb the body’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colors-of-sunset-and-sunrise-reset-our-circadian-rhythms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circadian rhythms</a> by inhibiting the production of melatonin, a hormone key to regulating sleep-wake cycles and tied to cardiovascular health.&nbsp;



Previous trials showed heavy coffee consumption in the afternoon or evening can slash nighttime <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melatonin-receptor-is-a-new-target-for-treating-sleep-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melatonin</a> by 30%.



Second, coffee’s anti-inflammatory effects may prove more beneficial in the morning, when the body’s inflammatory markers tend to peak. Drinking coffee at that time may deliver its anti-inflammatory compounds precisely when the body can most effectively use them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deeper-look-at-coffee-s-benefits">A deeper look at coffee’s benefits</h2>



The study produced a variety of figures showing mortality risk reductions for different consumption levels among morning coffee drinkers. 



Some wonder why the overall advantage for morning drinkers (16% lower mortality risk) appears smaller than the benefits for subgroups (15%, 29%, or 21% lower risk). 



This discrepancy stems from contrasting analytical methods. When the researchers separated morning coffee drinkers by how many cups they drank, they captured nuances that a single overall comparison could not.&nbsp;



Both analyses confirm that morning coffee helps lower mortality risk, but the subgroup breakdown reveals a more detailed picture.



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



With coffee ranking among the globe’s most popular beverages, these findings may encourage coffee enthusiasts to reconsider not just how much they drink, but also when they drink it.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://odphp.health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/dietary-guidelines/previous-dietary-guidelines/2015" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2015-2020 U.S. Dietary Guidelines</a> already recognize moderate coffee consumption as compatible with a healthy lifestyle. This fresh perspective on timing suggests further ways to optimize coffee’s health advantages.



The study cannot prove a definitive cause-and-effect relationship, and scientists caution that more research is needed. Nonetheless, for those looking to maximize coffee’s potential health benefits - especially in relation to longevity and heart health - morning consumption might be the ideal choice.



By highlighting how timing may affect coffee’s beneficial effects, the study opens new questions for further exploration. Could an extra afternoon cup undo some of the benefits gained from morning coffee? Should future dietary guidelines address timing as part of their recommendations?&nbsp;



As coffee lovers explore these possibilities, one thing is clear: morning might just be the perfect time to savor that first cup.



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Morning coffee drinkers have a lower risk of heart disease and death

A study of more than 40,000 American adults has revealed...

Overfishing, illegal fishing, and the rising market for shark meat are putting over 80 species of sharks and rays in the Mediterranean Sea at serious risk.&nbsp;



A recent study highlights these threats and emphasizes the urgent need for improved strategies to conserve these vulnerable species, known as elasmobranchs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regional-legislation-and-conservation-efforts">Regional legislation and conservation efforts</h2>



Researchers examined existing protective measures for elasmobranchs across 22 Mediterranean coastal states, stretching from Spain and Morocco to Israel, Lebanon, and Syria. They identified more than 200 measures - ranging from national legislation to NGO-led conservation efforts - addressing various aspects of elasmobranch protection.



European Union (EU) countries generally implemented more of these measures than non-EU countries, with Spain having the highest count. The study found that governments were responsible for 63% of these measures, primarily focusing on legal requirements.&nbsp;



However, significant differences were noted in how effectively these laws are monitored, with no single source tracking national progress on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-need-better-protection-to-maintain-functional-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-protection-is-needed-for-mediterranean-sharks">More protection is needed for Mediterranean sharks</h2>



Although legislation to protect them exists, sharks are increasingly being caught both intentionally and accidentally, often to meet the growing demand for their products.&nbsp;



The study calls for enhanced monitoring at landing sites and better control measures. It also emphasizes the importance of public education and providing incentives for fishers to use equipment that minimizes harm to shark species.



Lydia Koehler is an associate lecturer at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth</a> and a member of the <a href="https://iucn.org/our-union/commissions/iucn-world-commission-environmental-law-2021-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;



&nbsp;“Sharks have been part of the marine ecosystem for millions of years with an evolutionary history that predates the dinosaurs. There are over 1,000 species of elasmobranchs worldwide, and they fulfil a variety of ecological roles, whether as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happens-when-an-apex-predator-goes-missing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apex predators</a> that maintain healthy populations of prey species or a food source for other predators,” said Koehler.&nbsp;



“However, many shark species in the Mediterranean have seen drastic declines in the past few decades with over half of the species being threatened by extinction, largely due to overfishing and related pressures such as bycatch. Finding effective ways to conserve them is, therefore, of critical importance.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-shark-conservation">Challenges in shark conservation</h2>



The study uncovered substantial differences in conservation efforts among Mediterranean countries, which may be influenced by varying resources, expertise, and political will.&nbsp;



“This study has shown substantial differences in countries’ efforts around shark conservation. That may be linked to access to resources, available expertise and capacities, and a general willingness to develop and implement measures in light of other competing pressures,” said Jason Lowther, an associate professor of law at the University of Plymouth.&nbsp;



According to Professor Lowther, achieving positive outcomes for these species requires not only government support but also sustained political will across election periods and a steadfast long-term commitment to driving change.



“It also requires the integration of communities in the Mediterranean region, and our view is that this work presents a starting point in that process.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations-for-protecting-sharks">Recommendations for protecting sharks</h2>



Based on their findings, the researchers have proposed several strategies to better conserve elasmobranch species in the Mediterranean.



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Increase transparency: Improve reporting templates to enable detailed tracking of conservation actions and recognize contributions from various stakeholders.</li>



<li>Engage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing communities</a>: Expand cooperation with local fishers and integrate social science insights to develop effective governance strategies that consider community dependencies.</li>



<li>Extend spatial conservation measures: Enhance management and objectives of existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine protected areas</a> that host sharks to improve conservation outcomes.</li>



<li>Increase compliance to reduce bycatch: Strengthen the enforcement of existing laws to decrease incidental shark captures and improve data on bycatch.</li>



<li>Expand funding: Seek additional funding opportunities, especially for collaborative cross-country initiatives aimed at protecting threatened shark and ray species.</li>



<li>Tailor research to policy needs: Coordinate research across the region to provide robust data for stock assessments and a deeper understanding of population trends, which can inform better regulatory measures.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-toward-a-sustainable-future">Moving toward a sustainable future</h2>



The study calls for concerted efforts to protect sharks and rays, emphasizing that legislative measures alone are insufficient without proper monitoring and community involvement.&nbsp;



By improving transparency, promoting cooperation with the fishing industry, and enhancing enforcement, stakeholders can work towards effective conservation strategies.



Sharks play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, and their decline poses significant risks to ocean health.&nbsp;



This research provides a critical foundation for future efforts to preserve these species, highlighting the importance of sustained political will, interdisciplinary research, and community engagement in safeguarding the Mediterranean's marine biodiversity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110930" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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Mediterranean sharks face growing threats despite conservation efforts

Overfishing, illegal fishing, and the rising market for shark meat...

Evolution is like a grand performance on Earth's stage, with each species taking the spotlight at different moments in time. 



Imagine if there were a record chronicling the grand entrances and exits of these species - not on scrolls or parchments, but etched into the bones and shells of creatures preserved across millennia.



Now, picture a timeline that not only captures the journey of life forms over the last half a billion years but extends back nearly 2 billion years. A team of experts at Virginia Tech have turned this idea into a reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-timeline-of-evolution">Extending the timeline of evolution</h2>



The researchers conducted a detailed analysis of ancient life that extends the timeline of evolution to nearly 2 billion years ago.



Shuhai Xiao, a geobiologist at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a>, along with his team, examined these corridors of time. The research was particularly focused on marine eukaryotes, which are organisms that have cells with a nucleus.



These creatures eventually evolved into multicellular organisms, including animals, plants, and fungi, and set the stage for a whole new chapter of life on Earth.



"This is the most comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of this period to date," said Xiao. "And more importantly, we've used a graphic correlation program that allowed us to achieve greater temporal resolution."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-story-etched-across-ages">A story etched across ages</h2>



The researchers traced life forms back to the Proterozoic Eon, which extends from 2,500 million to 539 million years ago.



This period was characterized by life forms like sea sponges that were generally smaller, squishier, and fewer in number. Most of the organisms hadn't evolved mineral skeletons, meaning that fewer traces were left in the fossil record for us to find today.



Xiao and his team present this journey of life as a dance of species - the choreography of which offers vital insights into the parallel evolutionary paths of life and Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-boring-billion-and-the-ice-ages">The Boring Billion and the ice ages</h2>



One interesting pattern observed in the study was the existence of a rather uneventful period known as the "Boring Billion" (1,800 million to 720 million years ago), during which eukaryotic diversity was thought to remained stable, suggesting a slower pace of evolution.



"Eukaryotic species in the 'boring billion' may have evolved slower and lasted longer than those that came later," noted the researchers.



Then comes a twist in the tale - the cataclysmic Snowball Earth episode that encased the planet in ice at least twice between 720 million and 635 million years ago.



This cold break ushered in an era of accelerated evolutionary activity, which replaced the "boring," sloth-like pace with a gradual increase in species richness.



Xiao credits the ice ages as a major factor that reset the evolutionary path in terms of diversity and dynamics. "We see rapid turnover of eukaryotic species immediately after glaciation. That’s a major finding."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-questions-amid-ancient-revelations">New questions amid ancient revelations</h2>



These patterns stir up several questions for future research. Why was evolution slow during the "Boring Billion"? 



What factors accelerated evolutionary pace after the snowball ice ages? Did changes in the environment, increased levels of atmospheric oxygen or inter-species competition contribute to this evolutionary sprint?



Such questions are crucial to understanding the complex interplay between life on Earth and Earth itself. And with this new study and the extended chart of life, we move closer to unraveling the mysteries of ancient evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-evolution-s-timeline">Broader implications of evolution’s timeline</h2>



This fascinating research not only extends our understanding of evolution but also opens doors to new scientific inquiries.



By mapping nearly 2 billion years of life’s history, scientists can better connect shifts in biodiversity to environmental and geological changes - offering insights into how life adapts to planetary transformations.



Moreover, the detailed timeline provides a framework for exploring the origins of multicellularity, the rise of complex ecosystems, and even the potential for life beyond Earth. 



By understanding how Earth’s life forms evolved under diverse conditions, researchers can refine models for identifying biosignatures on other planets.



As Xiao and his team continue their work, this extended evolutionary chart will serve as a critical resource for future studies, bridging the gap between Earth’s ancient past and its dynamic present. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adm9137" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Timeline of life: Ice ages gave evolution a kick-start

Evolution is like a grand performance on Earth's stage, with...

Nature’s connections can show up in the most unassuming places. For decades, people have watched curiously as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> collect seeds. These seeds often come with a fatty attachment that entices ants to take them underground, which is a nifty tactic employed by plants to get their seeds dispersed.  



This strategy, known as <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2259181" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">myrmecochory</a>, has guided ecological thinking for many years. Recent observations have shaken up this old concept, as a surprising twist has come from an unlikely source: oak galls produced by certain wasps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-and-wasps">Ants and wasps</h2>



Eight-year-old Hugo noticed something puzzling one afternoon. He saw a small parade of ants scurrying across a path, hauling what he assumed were regular seeds. 



His father, named Andrew Deans, took a closer look and realized these were oak galls, not plant seeds. 



Galls are growths shaped by wasps to ensure a safe shelter in which their larvae can develop. Hugo’s discovery launched fresh inquiries into how wasps might be tricking ants into unwittingly providing protection and resources for their developing young.



<a href="https://ento.psu.edu/directory/ard19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrew Deans</a> is a professor of entomology at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>. His experiences with insect classification and ecology helped shape the next steps in understanding how certain wasps manipulate ant behavior. 



Working with other <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/720283" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a>, he looked at the structure and chemical makeup of the oak galls, aiming to see whether these odd lumps mimic the enticing attachments found on seeds. 



That line of inquiry opened the door to a bigger story about insect collaboration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lure-of-fatty-acids">The lure of fatty acids</h2>



Research into seed dispersal has <a href="https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-94-017-0173-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> that ants love fatty acids, which they harvest from specialized structures on seeds. 



Many oak galls have a similar coating, sometimes called a <a href="https://www.schoolofhealth.com/docs/SOH/Provings/Proving_of_Oak_Galls_BLK_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hood</a>, that contains these appealing molecules. 



Once ants bring the gall inside their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-nests-could-help-humans-build-better-transportation-systems/">nest</a>, they devour the fatty portion but leave the rest. Within that intact shell, the wasp larvae stay hidden from predators. 



The parallels between seeds and galls have stirred fresh debate among entomologists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-camouflage">Chemical camouflage</h2>



The biggest revelation for many scientists is that these gall hoods may imitate the scent of deceased insects.



“It’s amazing how these structures mimic the chemical profile of dead insects, one of the main food sources for ants,” said <a href="https://ento.psu.edu/directory/jft11" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Tooker</a>, professor of entomology at the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>. 



This discovery sheds light on a possible reason behind the ants’ brisk retrieval of galls. They are likely to think they have found a reliable meal, but end up giving wasp larvae a free ride and shelter instead.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-wasps-and-evolution">Ants, wasps, and evolution</h2>



Millions of years before humans paid attention to them, galls were a feature on oak trees. Fossil records <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11831666/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">show</a> that wasps and oaks have had a long relationship, although it is not clear when ants became part of the mix. 



Some experts <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25993346/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">propose</a> that wasps first persuaded oaks to create galls and then evolved ways to draw ants into the equation. Others believe the ants’ interest in fatty acids nudged the wasps toward this chemical strategy.



Nature relies on countless overlapping interactions. These gall-making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-and-wasps-use-the-same-nest-building-tricks-despite-independent-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wasps</a> provide another example of how two different insects might develop a shared connection that benefits one party more than the other. 



While ants enjoy a quick snack from the gall’s fatty hood, the wasp larvae receive a safe refuge for their development. 



This unintentional partnership hints at how life weaves complex networks that bind different species together, often in ways that scientists have missed. Each time new details emerge, the broader narrative of ecological ties evolves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-nudge-toward-conservation">A nudge toward conservation</h2>



“This should make us think about how much we still don’t know about ecosystems and the need to preserve biodiversity,” reflected Andrew Deans. 



The researchers stressed the importance of keeping ecosystems intact to maintain these intricate ties. 



Oak trees, and the wasps that make use of them, face threats from habitat decline and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-shifting-to-new-habitats-to-cope-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climates</a>, which could unsettle the entire chain of relationships. 



When environments shift, the ants, the galls, and the plants lose a vital piece of the puzzle that supports their survival.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-curiosity-leads">Where curiosity leads</h2>



Hugo’s brief observation highlights how small moments can spark big changes in what we know. Nobody expected a child’s quiet stroll to upend familiar ideas. Researchers are now curious to see if other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-silent-language-decoding-the-chemical-signals-of-insects/">insects</a> use similar methods to coerce ants.&nbsp;



By peering into everyday wonders, people can gain a deeper appreciation of how species interact. Each fresh insight builds on the last, emphasizing the value of patient exploration and open minds in science.



The research findings were published in <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/720283">The American Naturalist</a>.



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An 8-year-old’s backyard discovery about ants  changed Earth science

Nature’s connections can show up in the most unassuming places....

Picture a charming blueberry farm, where vibrant bushes brim with richly colored fruit and sunlit leaves shimmer in the light. Yet, a change is on the horizon.



Blueberry plants are now under threat, with their vibrant appearance dulled and growth stunted by a powdery white substance. 



The culprit is a fungus called Erysiphe vaccinii, which is responsible for the disease known as powdery mildew.



A recent study from North Carolina State University reveals the alarming global spread of&nbsp;Erysiphe vaccinii in blueberries. 



Powdery mildew reduces yield and increases fungicide reliance. It is currently impacting blueberry production on multiple continents. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-spread-of-fungal-blueberry-disease">Global spread of fungal blueberry disease </h2>



According to the study, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-fungus-found-in-garden-soils-across-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungus</a> has spread globally over the past 12 years, after originating in the eastern United States. 



"We’re watching this global spread happen right now, in real time," said Michael Bradshaw, assistant professor of plant pathology at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NC State</a>.



The fungus responsible for powdery mildew creates a white, powdery layer on the surface of infected plants. 



This coating not only disrupts the plant’s ability to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis but also steals essential nutrients from the plant’s tissues.



As a result, the plant’s growth is stunted, and its overall health declines - making it weaker and less productive.



"There are other closely related powdery mildews that affect plants like wild berries or eucalyptus, but these are genetically different from the ones spreading across the world on blueberries," noted Bradshaw.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-spread-of-powdery-mildew">Tracking the spread of powdery mildew </h2>



The researchers examined 173 samples of infected blueberry leaves to study the spread of powdery mildew disease. These samples included both historic specimens from herbariums (some collected over 150 years ago) and more recent samples from various countries.



Through genetic testing, the team discovered that the strains causing the current outbreaks are entirely new and different from those found in the older specimens. They identified two distinct introductions of the fungus into the global blueberry-growing regions.



One strain spread to China, Mexico, and California and the other strain was found in Morocco, Peru, and Portugal.



Bradshaw suggested that humans likely played a major role in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-diseases-flourish-in-city-landscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spread of the fungus</a> by transporting infected nursery plants across borders.



“If you’re sending plant material across the world, you’re likely spreading this fungus with it,” he stated. This highlights how the global plant trade can inadvertently introduce harmful pathogens to new regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-the-disease-on-blueberries">Impact of the disease on blueberries</h2>



Powdery mildew has a significant economic impact on the blueberry industry, costing between $47 million and $530 million every year. 



These costs stem primarily from the increased use of fungicides needed to prevent or manage the disease, as well as from potential losses in crop yield.



The study also identifies regions like the U.S. Pacific Northwest as being particularly vulnerable to future outbreaks. This area has environmental conditions that are ideal for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disease</a> to thrive, such as the right combination of temperature and humidity, yet the fungus has not yet been reported there.



Proactive monitoring and management are urgently needed to prevent the disease from taking hold in such high-risk regions.



Bradshaw noted that agricultural practices could influence disease severity. "Some areas that grow blueberries in tunnels, or enclosed areas, seem to have worse disease outcomes than areas that grow blueberries outdoors without any covering, like in North Carolina," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-farmers-manage-powdery-mildew">Helping farmers manage powdery mildew </h2>



To help farmers manage powdery mildew more effectively, the researchers developed a public database designed to identify different strains of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-can-think-and-make-smart-decisions-without-a-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungus</a>. Growers can use this tool to input data about the fungus affecting their crops and determine which specific strain is present in their fields. 



This information is crucial because it helps farmers understand the characteristics of the strain they are dealing with, including its level of virulence (how damaging it can be) and whether it is resistant to commonly used fungicides. 



By knowing these details, farmers can make more informed decisions about how to control the disease and protect their crops.



“Understanding the genetics can warn farmers about which strain they have, whether it is resistant to fungicides, and how the disease is spreading,” Bradshaw explained.



This research highlights the urgent need to address powdery mildew’s global spread. By improving monitoring and control strategies, the study offers hope for safeguarding the blueberry industry from this emerging disease.



The research was supported by the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>) and <a href="https://novonordiskfonden.dk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novo Nordisk Foundation</a>.



The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/nph.20351" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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Disease attacking blueberry plants is spreading around the world

Picture a charming blueberry farm, where vibrant bushes brim with...

Ants, often considered simple creatures, have shown a surprising ability to learn from experience. A study led by Dr. Volker Nehring and doctoral student Mélanie Bey from the University of Freiburg reveals that ants can modify their behavior based on past encounters. 



Published in the journal Current Biology, the research sheds new light on how these social insects interact with their environment and competitors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-remember-encounters-with-rivals">Ants remember encounters with rivals</h2>



The researchers from the <a href="https://uni-freiburg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Freiburg</a> studied how ants interacted with members of rival nests. They designed controlled experiments to observe if ants could recall past interactions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-work-in-groups-more-successfully-than-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adjust their behavior</a> accordingly.



The results revealed that ants could indeed remember their encounters. When ants had faced aggression from members of a particular nest, they displayed heightened aggression toward those nest members in future encounters. 



On the other hand, ants that had only encountered passive members of a nest were noticeably less aggressive toward them later. This shows that the ants' behavior was shaped by their experiences rather than being purely instinctual.



“We often have the idea that insects function like pre-programmed robots,” said Dr. Nehring. “Our study provides new evidence that, on the contrary, ants also learn from their experiences and can hold a grudge.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-identity-rivals-through-scent">Ants identity rivals through scent</h2>



Ants use odors as a key tool to recognize members of their own nest and to distinguish rivals. Each nest has its own unique scent, which helps ants determine whether another ant belongs to their group or is an outsider.



Earlier studies showed that ants tend to act more aggressively toward rival ants from nearby nests compared to those from nests farther away. However, the underlying reason for this pattern wasn’t fully understood.



Dr. Nehring's research uncovered that memory plays an important role in this behavior. Ants don’t just recognize rivals by scent in the moment; they also remember the specific odor of attackers they previously encountered.



If an ant remembers a rival as aggressive, it will respond with heightened aggression when it meets that rival again. This confirms that ants are not just reacting instinctively but are also using past experiences to shape their behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-learning-abilities-of-ants">Observing the learning abilities of ants</h2>



The researchers conducted their study in two carefully designed phases to investigate how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-now-using-cars-to-travel-spread-to-new-locations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> respond to different types of encounters with rivals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-phase">Learning phase</h3>



In this phase, ants were exposed to three distinct groups: ants from their own nest; aggressive ants from a rival nest (Nest A); and aggressive ants from another rival nest (Nest B).



Over five consecutive days, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-fill-a-150-year-gap-in-biodiversity-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> had one-minute encounters with these groups. These repeated interactions allowed the ants to form specific memories of their experiences with each group.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-phase">Testing phase</h3>



In this phase, the researchers observed how the ants behaved when they encountered rivals from Nest A. The results showed a clear difference in behavior:



Ants that had previously interacted with aggressive rivals from Nest A showed significantly more aggression toward members of Nest A.



Ants that had no prior encounters with Nest A, or those that only interacted with members of their own nest, were much less aggressive.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-experiment">Second experiment</h3>



To explore how the nature of encounters influenced ants learning and behavior, the team modified the experiment. They included interactions with passive ants, ensuring passivity by disabling their ability to fight (e.g., by cutting off their antennae).



Ants that had only encountered passive rivals displayed significantly less aggression in later encounters.



These results demonstrated that ants’ behavior is shaped by their specific experiences. Aggressive past interactions led to heightened aggression, while encounters with passive rivals resulted in a calmer response. This highlights the ability of ants to learn and adapt based on their interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-social-insects">Future research on social insects</h2>



This discovery challenges long-standing assumptions about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-destabilizing-ant-plant-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect behavior</a>. 



The team now plans to explore whether ants adapt their olfactory receptors based on their experiences. Such adaptations could reflect learned behaviors at the sensory level.



Ants, far from being robotic, show an intricate blend of instinct and experience-based learning. This research not only deepens our understanding of ant behavior but also opens doors to exploring learning mechanisms in other social insects.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)01595-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Ants 'hold a grudge' against aggressive rivals

Ants, often considered simple creatures, have shown a surprising ability...

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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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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