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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Monster storm spawns severe weather across the U.S. 

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Supernova explosion captured in the constellation Gemini 

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Hainan Strait in southern China

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an active landslide zone that has been shifting for decades on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County.



This area, particularly in Portuguese Bend, experiences ongoing ground movement, with land sliding toward the ocean at varying rates of up to several feet per year. 



The instability is largely due to weak, water-saturated bedrock and the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-sinking-cities-land-subsidence-on-the-east-coast/">human activity</a>, including road construction and irrigation, which have exacerbated the natural movement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-the-landslide-zone">Analysis of the landslide zone</h2>



According to a recent report from NASA, the landslide zone on the Palos Verdes Peninsula has expanded.&nbsp;



“Researchers at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California used data from an airborne radar to measure the movement of the slow-moving landslides on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County,” the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153893/los-angeles-area-landslide-expands">report</a> stated.



“The analysis determined that, during a four-week period in the fall of 2024, land in the residential area slid toward the ocean by as much as 4 inches (10 centimeters) per week."



“Portions of the peninsula, which juts into the Pacific Ocean just south of the city of Los Angeles, are part of an ancient complex of landslides that has been moving for at least the past six decades, affecting hundreds of buildings in local communities.”&nbsp;



NASA noted that the motion accelerated and the active area expanded following record-breaking rainfall in Southern California in 2023 and heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation</a> in early 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visualization-of-the-landslide-zone">Visualization of the landslide zone</h2>



To create the image, the Advanced Rapid Imaging and Analysis (ARIA) team used data from four flights of NASA’s Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR) collected between September 18 and October 17, 2024.&nbsp;



“The UAVSAR instrument was mounted to a Gulfstream III jet flown out of NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, and the four flights were planned to estimate the speed and direction of the landslides in three dimensions,” explained NASA.



“In the image above, colors indicate how fast parts of the landslide complex were moving in late September and October, with the darkest reds indicating the highest speeds." 



"The arrows represent the direction of horizontal motion. The white solid lines are the boundaries of the active landslide area as defined in 2007 by the California Geological Survey.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerating-land-movement-and-risks">Accelerating land movement and risks</h2>



Alexander Handwerger is a landslide scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory who performed the analysis. “In effect, we’re seeing that the footprint of land experiencing significant impacts has expanded, and the speed is more than enough to put human life and infrastructure at risk,” said Handwerger.&nbsp;



The landslide activity in this region dates back to the 1950s, when road construction projects disturbed the already <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-billion-people-are-threatened-by-land-subsidence/">unstable terrain</a>, accelerating movement.&nbsp;



Since then, shifting ground has led to significant damage to infrastructure, including cracked roads, broken utility lines, and distorted buildings. The instability has made it difficult for the city to maintain roads and essential services in the affected areas.



Despite efforts to slow the movement, including drainage improvements and engineering solutions, the land continues to shift. Homeowners and city officials have had to adapt, with some structures built to withstand slow movement, while others have been abandoned.&nbsp;



The situation remains a challenge, with scientists monitoring the landslide to better understand its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landslide-predictions-could-become-94-percent-more-accurate/">behavior</a> and explore potential mitigation strategies.



Portuguese Bend is a well-known example of a continuously active landslide, highlighting the complex interaction between geology, human development, and environmental forces.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Landslide zone in Los Angeles County is expanding

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a pair of interacting spiral galaxies known as the Antennae Galaxies. They are located approximately 45 million light-years away in the constellation Corvus.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antennae-galaxies-in-a-deadly-embrace">Antennae Galaxies in a deadly embrace </h2>



“The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has snapped the best ever image of the Antennae Galaxies. Hubble has released images of these stunning galaxies twice before, once using observations from its Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2) in 1997, and again in 2006 from the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS),” noted <a href="https://esahubble.org/images/potw1345a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The galaxies - also known as NGC 4038 and NGC 4039 - are locked in a deadly embrace. Once normal, sedate spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, the pair have spent the past few hundred million years sparring with one another.”



According to ESA, the clash of the Antennae Galaxies is so violent that stars have been ripped from their host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collision-2-million-mph-stephans-quintet-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> to form a streaming arc between the two.&nbsp;



The name of the galaxy pair comes from this long stream of stars and gas, which resembles insect antennae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-bursts-of-star-formation-nbsp">Intense bursts of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



The collision has triggered intense bursts of star formation, making the Antennae Galaxies one of the nearest and most dramatic examples of a starburst galaxy.&nbsp;



Many of the newly formed stars are concentrated in massive star clusters, some of which are expected to evolve into globular clusters over millions of years.



“This new image of the Antennae Galaxies shows obvious signs of chaos. Clouds of gas are seen in bright pink and red, surrounding the bright flashes of blue star-forming regions - some of which are partially obscured by dark patches of dust,” explained ESA.



“The rate of star formation is so high that the Antennae Galaxies are said to be in a state of starburst, a period in which all of the gas within the galaxies is being used to form stars.”&nbsp;



“This cannot last forever and neither can the separate galaxies; eventually the nuclei will coalesce, and the galaxies will begin their retirement together as one large elliptical galaxy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-antennae-galaxies">Significance of the Antennae Galaxies</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies are one of the most well-studied examples of galaxy collisions - offering insight into the processes that shape galaxies over time.



Astronomers study the Antennae Galaxies using a range of telescopes across different wavelengths, including visible light, infrared, and X-rays.&nbsp;



Observations in X-rays have revealed evidence of supernovae and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-may-talk-to-galaxies-through-energetic-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, while infrared studies highlight regions of dust and star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-milky-way-s-collision-course-nbsp">The Milky Way's collision course&nbsp;</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies provide a glimpse into the future of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is expected to eventually merge with the Andromeda Galaxy - our closest spiral galaxy neighbor.



The cosmic collision course of the Milky Way and Andromeda will reshape both galaxies over billions of years.&nbsp;



This event is expected to occur in about 4.5 billion years. Both galaxies are part of the Local Group, a cluster of galaxies bound together by gravity. Their mutual gravitational pull is drawing them closer at a speed of approximately 110 kilometers per second.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-an-elliptical-galaxy-nbsp">The birth of an elliptical galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



When the two galaxies collide, their individual stars will largely avoid direct collisions due to the vast distances between them. However, the gravitational forces involved will create dramatic effects.&nbsp;



These forces will distort the galaxies' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shapes</a>, triggering intense bursts of star formation as gas clouds collide and compress. Over time, the galaxies will settle into a new, larger elliptical galaxy often referred to as "Milkomeda" or "Milkdromeda" by astronomers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-merger-and-the-solar-system">Galaxy merger and the solar system</h2>



Despite the seemingly destructive nature of the collision, the solar system is unlikely to face direct harm. Our Sun may find itself flung into a new orbit within the merged galaxy or even cast into intergalactic space.&nbsp;



The merger will also significantly alter the night sky, with the Andromeda Galaxy becoming increasingly prominent before blending into the unified structure.



This event is part of the natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-are-much-bigger-than-we-originally-believed-gas-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> and serves as a fascinating reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the universe. 



While the collision is still billions of years away, studying it helps astronomers understand galactic interactions and the long-term future of our cosmic neighborhood.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Crater Lake&nbsp;(Klamath:&nbsp;Giiwas) is a&nbsp;crater lake&nbsp;in south-central&nbsp;Oregon&nbsp;in the western United States. It is the main feature of&nbsp;Crater Lake National Park&nbsp;and is famous for its deep blue color and water clarity. The lake partly fills a nearly 2,148-foot-deep (655&nbsp;m) caldera that was formed around 7,700 (± 150) years ago&nbsp;by the collapse of the volcano&nbsp;Mount Mazama. There are no rivers flowing into or out of the lake; the evaporation is compensated for by rain and snowfall at a rate such that the total amount of water is replaced every 250 years. With a depth of 1,949 feet (594&nbsp;m),&nbsp;the lake is the&nbsp;deepest&nbsp;in the United States. In the world, it ranks ninth for maximum depth, and third for mean (average) depth. Crater Lake features two small islands.&nbsp;Wizard Island, located near the western shore of the lake, is a&nbsp;cinder cone&nbsp;approximately 316 acres (128 ha) in size.&nbsp;Phantom Ship, a natural rock pillar, is located near the southern shore.



The park has two developed campgrounds,&nbsp;Mazama Campground&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lost Creek Campground. They are open only in the summer. Mazama Campground has 214 sites for tents and RVs. Lost Creek Campground has 16 sites for tents only.&nbsp; Sleeping overnight in the park is allowed only for hotel guests, campground campers, and backpackers who obtain a&nbsp;backcountry permit. Camping in the park’s pullouts, picnic areas, and parking lots is prohibited.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Rainbow,Trout,Caught,And,Released,In,The,Boise,River,In

Farmed fish are often viewed with suspicion, while wild-caught varieties are more likely to be perceived as healthy and pure. Seafood shoppers everywhere debate the differences and weigh their options carefully.



A fresh scientific review points to an unexpected conclusion. Various pollutants can accumulate in fish, and wild-caught individuals appear to experience greater exposure to these. 



This perspective is shared by <a href="https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6007-8622" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Isabel  Casanova-Martínez</a>, a scientist who works under the auspices of several Spanish research institutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-heavy-metals">Understanding heavy metals</h2>



Many people recognize that <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/heavy-metal-blood-test/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy metals</a> pose a threat for food safety. 



These substances include elements like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elevated-mercury-levels-discovered-in-dolphins/">mercury</a>, <a href="https://periodic-table.rsc.org/element/33/arsenic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arsenic</a>, lead and others that can build up in tissue (bioaccumulate) over time. Certain types can be risky to humans if present in large amounts.



Researchers found that wild-caught fish carried an average mercury concentration of 0.06 micrograms per gram, while farmed fish had about half that, at 0.038 micrograms per gram. 



They also found arsenic levels of 3.26 micrograms per gram in wild fish, compared with 1.23 micrograms per gram in farmed varieties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ddt-and-other-pollutants">DDT and other pollutants</h2>



A lesser-known concern is <a href="https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/ddt-brief-history-and-status" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DDT</a>, which was once a widely used pesticide. Even though it was banned in many places years ago, traces can still linger. These residues can find their way into aquatic environments and accumulate in fish.



The review indicates around 196.48 nanograms per gram of DDT in wild-caught samples, whereas farmed fish had about 44.64 nanograms per gram. 



The findings suggest differences in how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-small-fish-whole-reduces-cancer-risk-in-women/">fish</a> come into contact with old pesticide deposits, possibly due to habitat or feeding patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-some-fish-fare-better">Why some fish fare better</h2>



Fish produced through aquaculture may face stricter oversight in terms of feed and water conditions. 



Organizations like the <a href="https://www.fao.org/publications/fao-flagship-publications/the-state-of-world-fisheries-and-aquaculture/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food and Agriculture Organization</a> note that this method continues to expand faster than other food sectors. Many producers track feeds and test water more regularly than ever.



Heavy metals can be introduced through industrial pollution, runoff, or other sources in natural waters. 



Filtered tanks or closely monitored pens could mean fewer contaminants find their way into farmed species, although no method removes the risks entirely.



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



The <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mercury-and-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> has identified mercury as being among the top chemicals of concern for public health, especially for expectant mothers and small children. 



High concentrations have been <a href="https://www.epa.gov/mercury/health-effects-exposures-mercury">tied</a> to neurological issues and developmental problems in infants.



Safe daily or weekly seafood intake is still possible, but guidelines vary depending on a person’s overall health. 



Experts often urge pregnant women to be particularly careful about the consumption of large, predatory fish as they are known to harbor elevated mercury levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-nutrition-and-contaminants">Balancing nutrition and contaminants</h2>



Eating fish brings many benefits. It offers protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and important minerals. 



<a href="https://www.fishwatch.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA Fisheries</a> underscores that fish are a valuable food, but also acknowledges that consumers should stay informed about possible contaminants.



Some nutrients, like <a href="https://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/se.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">selenium</a> and <a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zinc</a>, vary based on the fish’s environment and diet. 



Farmed diets often include formulated feeds that are designed to control final nutrient profiles. Wild species gain nutrients from ecosystems that are less predictable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leading-author-s-viewpoint">Leading author’s viewpoint</h2>



"Rather than pitting wild fishing against aquaculture, our review demonstrates that both sectors can coexist and help meet the world’s seafood needs safely," concluded Dr. Casanova-Martínez, lead author of the study.



"Still, ongoing research and improvements in feed and environmental monitoring are essential for safeguarding public health." 



These observations reflect the broader consensus that both systems are vital for feeding populations. Each approach has benefits and drawbacks that require further attention.



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



Regulatory bodies set maximum allowed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-100-million-americans-exposed-to-contaminated-drinking-water/">contaminant levels</a> to keep consumers safe. Many fish samples in both categories fall within established safety margins. 



Continuous oversight helps the public gain confidence in what ends up on their plates.



Authorities also caution special populations. Small children and pregnant individuals may need more careful advice about portion sizes, fish types, and heavy meal frequency. 



Public health agencies need to adjust recommendations when new evidence emerges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-consumers">What’s next for consumers</h2>



Aquaculture often employs best practices to reduce pollutants, yet wild-caught products remain popular for taste and tradition. 



People can choose a balanced approach, selecting a mix of fish sources and staying updated on guidelines for safer consumption.



Additional studies on feed technology and water filtration are ongoing. Research may reveal improved methods to cut contaminants and maintain fish quality in coming years.



Concerns about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-metal-pollution-threatens-marine-life-and-human-health/">heavy metals</a> and legacy pesticides should not overshadow the nutritional value of fish. 



Instead, consumers should be making informed choices by identifying reputable suppliers and following health advisories to ensure they reduce the intake of unwanted substances.



Individuals looking for more detail can consult government websites or speak with healthcare providers for tailored advice. Monitoring official recommendations about fish intake can also safer meal planning.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0956713525000891" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Control</a>.



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Why eating farmed fish may be safer than eating fish caught in the wild

Farmed fish are often viewed with suspicion, while wild-caught varieties...

Colorful,Chrysanthemum,Flower,Macro,Shot.,Chrysanthemum,Rainbow,Flower,Background.

Fractals are curious designs that show up when patterns repeat themselves at different scales. They can be spotted in everyday settings such as ferns and snowflakes, yet they rarely appear in certain areas of physics. 



That rarity makes them a favorite topic for those who study unusual behavior in matter.



Scientists have theorized for decades that electrons in special environments might display such repeating structures. 



Reports hinted at possible sightings, but nobody had directly measured the electron energies in a real crystal to confirm this fractal. It looked like a problem best left to speculation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-a-decades-old-prediction">Observing a decades-old prediction</h2>



Now, however, a brand-new observation in quantum materials has left researchers excited. They have found an intricate energy pattern that matches a famous prediction from the 1970s.



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/carbon-atom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ali Yazdani</a>, James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor at <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton</a>, led the group that made this unexpected observation.



He and his colleagues captured direct evidence of the fractal pattern in a new type of material that was created by stacking and twisting sheets of carbon atoms, and which produced a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0097849300000431" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moiré design</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fractal-energy-pattern-in-quantum-material">Fractal energy pattern in quantum material</h2>



Scientists have long been fascinated by <a href="https://lab.semi.ac.cn/library/upload/files/2019/1/412557940.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fractals</a>, which are self-repeating patterns seen at many scales. 



The research team measured the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-atomic-collisions-unleash-unexpected-energy-bursts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energies</a> of electrons in these twisted sheets and found a sequence that matched the pattern known as Hofstadter's butterfly.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hofstadters-butterfly_fractal-pattern_observed-lab_credit-Yazdani-group_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hofstadters-butterfly_fractal-pattern_observed-lab_credit-Yazdani-group_1s.webp" alt="A quantum version of a fractal pattern, known as &quot;Hofstadter's butterfly,&quot; which has long been predicted, but the new study marks the first time it has been directly observed experimentally in a real material. Credit: Yazdani group" class="wp-image-1961641"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A quantum version of a fractal pattern, known as "Hofstadter's butterfly," which has long been predicted, but the new study marks the first time it has been directly observed experimentally in a real material. Credit: Yazdani group</figcaption></figure>



Hofstadter first named this spectral pattern in his Ph.D. work in 1976, and it is one of the early examples of modern scientific data visualization.&nbsp;



“<a href="https://www.mathematik.com/Hofstadter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hofstadter's butterfly</a> is also a rare example of a problem that is solved exactly in quantum mechanics, without any approximations,” explained <a href="https://physics.mit.edu/research/pappalardo-fellowships-in-physics/kevin-nuckolls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kevin Nuckolls</a>, the co-lead author of the paper. He explained that until now, no one had observed this energy pattern directly in a real <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poorly-understood-force-helps-keep-atomic-nuclei-stable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">material</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accidental-clues">Accidental clues</h2>



“Our discovery was basically an accident,” commented Nuckolls. He revealed that they originally set out to examine superconductivity in twisted bilayer graphene but ended up with a moiré arrangement that opened the door to the butterfly pattern.



A team at MIT had shown in 2018 that <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-41068-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moiré crystals</a> can become <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature26160" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superconducting</a> under special conditions.



The samples did not meet the magic angle for superconductivity, but they produced a clear view of the fractal spectrum. That unexpected twist confirmed the calculations from decades ago in a direct and visual way.



“Sometimes nature is kind to you,” said Nuckolls. He mentioned that they nearly missed this hidden butterfly and only caught on after studying the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-atoms-in-your-body-took-a-400000-light-year-journey-through-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electron</a> energies in more detail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detailed-electron-energy-patterns">Detailed electron energy patterns</h2>



The team applied a <a href="https://www.nanoscience.com/techniques/scanning-tunneling-microscopy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scanning tunneling microscope</a>, which probes surfaces at an atomic scale by allowing electrons to tunnel from a sharp tip. This method captured the energy structure in exquisite detail.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hofstadters-butterfly_fractal-pattern_lab-results_credit-Yazdani-group_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hofstadters-butterfly_fractal-pattern_lab-results_credit-Yazdani-group_1s.webp" alt="Finding Hofstadter's butterfly. Credit: Yazdani group" class="wp-image-1961639"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Finding Hofstadter's butterfly. Credit: Yazdani group</figcaption></figure>



“The STM is a direct energy probe,” said <a href="https://www.thegraphenecouncil.org/blogpost/1501180/Graphene-News-and-Updates?tag=Myungchul+Oh" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Myungchul Oh</a>, a postdoctoral research associate and co-lead author of the paper. He emphasized that this made it possible to verify the fractal pattern in ways that electrical resistance tests could not match.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-theories-on-quantum-fractals">Shifting theories on quantum fractals</h2>



The data suggests that <a href="https://lightcolourvision.org/dictionary/definition/electron-electron-interaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electron-electron interactions</a> play a role in shaping the fractal arrangement. These interactions were not part of the original model that was proposed in the 1970s.



Theoretical efforts by <a href="https://phy.princeton.edu/people/biao-lian" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Biao Lian</a> and his students helped interpret these extra features. Their calculations matched the experimental findings, once they added the impact of strong correlations among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-the-origins-of-the-molecule-that-made-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electrons</a>.



“The Hofstadter regime is a rich and vibrant spectrum of topological states,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Wf1aRMYAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Scheer</a>, a graduate student in physics at Princeton and one of the paper's co-lead authors. 



He believes these images could unlock new insights into some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-fission-what-exactly-happens-when-the-nucleus-of-an-atom-splits-in-two/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> behaviors that remain poorly understood.



These findings hint at new possibilities for exploring unusual phases in two-dimensional materials. Researchers see this study as one step toward richer frameworks in quantum physics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-fractal-pattern-surprises">More fractal pattern surprises</h2>



Many experts wonder if other twisted structures might show similar surprises. Each new angle or stacking pattern can shift electrons into exotic behaviors.



Some might ask how such fractal features could connect to next-generation devices. While no immediate inventions are guaranteed, curiosity in this area is growing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bigger-story">The bigger story</h2>



Beyond the fractal butterfly, other puzzles lie in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nmat5012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">topological states</a> and quantum conductivity. Physicists hope that sharper imaging techniques might map out more hidden patterns.



“These moiré crystals provided an ideal setting,” stressed Ali Yazdani. He said that the carefully arranged <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/carbon/articles/10.3389/frcrb.2023.1305515/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon lattices</a> allowed electrons to move in a periodic environment that revealed the structure that Hofstadter predicted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-studies-on-fractal-patterns">Future studies on fractal patterns</h2>



Investigators plan to measure how these fractals shift as conditions like temperature or magnetic field change. Each variation might introduce a new shape to the electronic spectrum.



There is also excitement about combining this fractal observation with further research on superconductivity. 



Small tweaks in the angle or doping level could reveal how electrons organize themselves in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41563-021-00923-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flat moiré bands</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-quantum-fractals-matter">Why do quantum fractals matter?</h2>



Understanding correlated states remains a priority for many labs. Some suspect that quantum fractals might show up in other materials with carefully designed patterns.



New theories will be tested against actual data, which was scarce until now. The hope is that each discovery will spark more questions about how electrons behave at tiny scales.



This long-sought fractal pattern emerged through patient work and a little bit of luck. Observers see it as a striking example of how surprising quantum materials can be when viewed up close.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08550-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Quantum fractal pattern predicted 50 years ago observed in the lab

Fractals are curious designs that show up when patterns repeat...

Birth,Of,A,Solar,Sytem,-,Protoplanetary,Disk

Long-standing investigations into the birth and formation of stars, planets, and galaxies have given rise to many exciting revelations. One such fascinating area of research is the study of planet-forming disks - the cosmic nurseries that assist in the generation of new planets.



Traditionally, researchers believed that these disks existed for only a brief period in a star’s life. Most estimates suggested that within 10 million years, they would dissipate, leaving behind either fully formed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-planets-form-its-much-more-complicated-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> or barren remnants. 



However, new research is challenging this assumption, and has revealed that some disks can last far longer under specific conditions. 



This unexpected discovery opens up fresh possibilities for understanding how planets form and whether long-lived disks might increase the chances that life exists beyond Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-discovery-defies-expectations">Cosmic discovery defies expectations</h2>



A team of researchers at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a> has discovered that planet-forming disks can persist for much longer than previously believed. Their study focused on stars with a mass of one-tenth of the sun or less. 



The findings suggest that under these conditions, disks can survive for as long as 30 million years - three times longer than earlier estimates.



This breakthrough was made possible by NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>, which allowed researchers to conduct a detailed chemical analysis of an unusually long-lived disk. 



Their study, published in Astrophysical Letters, sheds new light on the timeline of planet formation. The longer a disk survives, the more time it provides for planets to form, which could significantly impact the development of planetary systems.



"In a sense, protoplanetary disks provide us with baby pictures of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-finds-largest-amount-of-carbon-ever-seen-in-a-planet-forming-disk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary systems</a>, including a glimpse of what our solar system may have looked like in its infancy," explained Feng Long, the lead author of the study and a Sagan Fellow at the <a href="https://www.lpl.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lunar and Planetary Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-star-that-changed-the-timeline">The star that changed the timeline</h2>



The research focused on a star designated WISE J044634.16–262756.1B, which is more conveniently known as J0446B. 



This star, located in the constellation Columba and about 267 light-years from Earth, has managed to hold onto its disk far longer than expected.



Most young stars lose their planet-forming disks within 10 to 20 million years. Yet, J0446B has retained its disk for about 30 million years, making it an anomaly in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-giant-planets-form/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary science</a>. 



The team’s analysis suggests that small stars like J0446B might be capable of maintaining their disks for extended periods, allowing planets more time to form and develop stable orbits.



"Because materials in the disk provide the raw materials for planets, the disk's lifespan determines how much time the system has to form planets," explained Long.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stable-environment-for-planet-formation">Stable environment for planet formation</h2>



A key finding of this study is that even though these disks last longer, their chemistry stays mostly the same.



The team observed that the gases and dust in the disk remain relatively stable, providing a consistent environment in which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> may form. 



This stability is crucial, as it ensures that planets forming around small stars have the necessary materials for an extended period.



By analyzing the gas content in J0446B’s disk, the researchers ruled out the possibility that it was a debris disk. 



Unlike protoplanetary disks, debris disks are made of second-generation material formed by asteroid collisions, and do not support the formation of new planets. The presence of primordial gas confirmed that J0446B’s disk was still in its original state.



"We detected gases like hydrogen and neon, which tells us that there is still primordial gas left in the disk around J0446B," said Chengyan Xie, a doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.lpl.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lunar and Planetary Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-life-beyond-earth">Implications for life beyond Earth</h2>



The discovery of long-lived planet-forming disks has profound implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-planets-formed-in-the-harsh-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary systems</a> outside our own. 



One of the most intriguing planetary systems for researchers is TRAPPIST-1, which lies 40 light-years from Earth. This system features a red dwarf star surrounded by seven planets similar in size to Earth. 



Three of these planets exist in the habitable zone, where conditions could allow for liquid water and, potentially, for life.



The star in the TRAPPIST-1 system is similar in size to J0446B. Scientists think long-lasting disks help shape planets around small stars. The extra gas in these disks might affect how planets move and settle into their orbits.



"To make the specific arrangement of orbits we see with TRAPPIST-1, planets need to migrate inside the disk, a process that requires the presence of gas," explained Ilaria Pascucci, a professor of planetary sciences at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory.



"The long presence of gas we find in those disks might be the reason behind TRAPPIST-1's unique arrangement."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-our-solar-system-evolved-differently">Why our solar system evolved differently</h2>



The sun and bigger stars lose their disks faster. They change quickly, giving planets less time to form. This might be why our solar system looks different from ones around smaller stars.



Even though these stars are different, studying long-lasting disks helps us learn more about processes that take place in space. 



Small stars are much more common than larger stars like the sun, so they might help scientists discover how planets form and whether they can support life.



"Developing a better understanding of how low-mass star systems evolve and getting snapshots of long-lived disks might help pave the way to filling out the blanks in the photo album of the universe," Long said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-planet-formation">New perspective on planet formation</h2>



Since planets need time and the right conditions to in order to develop, the discovery that planet-forming discs may last longer raises new questions. 



If small stars hold onto their planet-forming materials for longer, they might have a better chance of creating planets where life could exist.



With powerful telescopes, scientists hope to learn even more about these long-lasting disks. This discovery could completely change how we understand the requirements for planets to form and survive.



Researchers will continue studying these cosmic nurseries to learn more about how planets form and whether any of them could be home to life beyond Earth.



The study is published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad99d2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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Planet-forming disks surrounding stars often last much longer than expected

Long-standing investigations into the birth and formation of stars, planets,...

A recent study offers a clearer picture of which amphibians and habitats face the greatest threat from rising temperatures.&nbsp;



Amphibians are notably fragile in a warming world due to their dependence on external sources to regulate body heat, with more than 40% of species already classified as endangered. As entire populations vanish, the ripple effects throughout ecosystems could be devastating.



“We wanted to better understand the risk climate change poses to amphibians, and so put together the most comprehensive compilation of heat tolerance limits to date,” said lead author Patrice Pottier, a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-tolerance-limits-of-amphibians-nbsp">Heat tolerance limits of amphibians&nbsp;</h2>



Amphibians, being ectotherms, cannot generate enough internal heat on their own and therefore depend on the environment to maintain suitable body temperatures.&nbsp;



Given how little data existed on their ability to endure higher heat levels, the UNSW team aggregated thousands of measurements, representing hundreds of species.



“Heat tolerance limits are the maximum temperature amphibians can tolerate before their physiological systems fail,” Pottier said.



The experts applied a statistical method called data imputation to estimate values for species that have not been directly studied.



“In this case, it predicts heat tolerance limits for species we do not have data for by looking at how heat tolerance is linked to factors like habitat type, environmental temperature, and evolutionary history,” Pottier explained.



By doing so, the scientists developed a comprehensive catalog of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-temperature-threshold-can-the-human-body-handle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat thresholds</a> covering about 60% of all known amphibian species. This overview highlights where warming poses the greatest risk and which animals might be most vulnerable to local extinctions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amphibians-are-already-under-strain">Amphibians are already under strain</h2>



The research team examined the environmental conditions amphibians encounter in different microhabitats - on land, in trees, or in water - and then compared these conditions to each species’ calculated heat tolerance limits.&nbsp;



“We found that 104 out of 5,203 species - 2% - are already exposed to overheating in shaded terrestrial conditions. And a 4°C global temperature increase could push 7.5% of species beyond their physiological limits,” Pottier said.



The experts also discovered that the areas most at risk do not necessarily line up with latitude alone, a finding that revises earlier assumptions.



“It has previously been often assumed that species closer to the equator are at greater risk from overheating due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-draining-nutrients-from-the-oceans-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> than those in temperate regions. However, our study found that tropical species in the Southern Hemisphere are the most impacted by overheating events, while non-tropical species are more impacted in the Northern Hemisphere,” Pottier explained.



As a result, relying on a one-size-fits-all pattern like latitude to assess threats may overlook specific places and species already pushing against their tolerable heat boundaries.



“Assuming that all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-vertebrates-reside-in-the-tropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical species</a> are more vulnerable than temperate species can be misleading. What matters is assessing if the area is going to experience extreme heat events relative to the species' heat tolerance. This requires stepping away from general trends, and identifying specific areas and species at risk,” Pottier added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-escalating-impacts-with-greater-warming-nbsp">Escalating impacts with greater warming&nbsp;</h2>



The scientists modeled how conditions might worsen under different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-40-of-amphibians-face-extinction-due-to-escalating-climate-threats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> scenarios. Even at 2°C above pre-industrial levels, more amphibians are likely to face critical heat exposure. But surpassing that threshold would be especially dangerous.



“Impacts escalate under different climate warming scenarios. There is an increase in impact between the current climate and +2C of warming; but impacts increase disproportionally under +4C of warming. This step-change impact severity shows that going above +2C of global warming can be a tipping point where we may see a lot of local extinctions,” Pottier noted.



Local disappearances carry additional risks: losing these frogs, salamanders, and toads can disrupt food webs, hamper insect control, and reduce overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflys-rapid-expansion-led-to-lower-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic diversity</a> in local ecosystems.



“Some amphibian populations may undergo range shifts to more hospitable habitats, but opportunities for this are likely limited due to low dispersal rates and reliance on water bodies,” Pottier added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-cultural-significance">Ecological and cultural significance </h2>



Amphibians are not just vital for pest management and as a food source for predators; they are also intertwined with human cultures around the globe.



Pottier pointed out that amphibians are an important part of the ecosystem. For example, the loss of an amphibian population would likely lead to an increase in insect population with carry-over effects on plants and animals, he noted.



“They are prey for many animals and their loss would have knock-on effects on many other species. Besides ecosystem impacts, amphibians are deeply rooted in human cultures and it would be a shame to lose such beautiful and emblematic species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-heat-impacts-on-amphibians-nbsp">Mitigating heat impacts on amphibians&nbsp;</h2>



The findings emphasize the importance of microhabitats that moderate temperature extremes. Places with plenty of foliage and accessible water sources can help amphibians survive short-term heat spikes by letting them cool off and keep their skin moist.



“Our analyses made it clear that vegetation and water bodies are critical in buffering amphibians during heat waves. We found that if you provide amphibians with enough water and enough shade, a lot of them can survive extreme heat events. We must protect and restore the environments that allow them to regulate their body temperature,” Pottier stressed.



Because the study assumed best-case scenarios for shade and moisture, actual threats could exceed even these concerning estimates.



“We used very conservative estimates in this study assuming access to cool shaded environments. Therefore, the impacts of global warming will likely exceed our projections. So all efforts to limit global warming are needed to protect the world’s amphibians,” he concluded.



Overall, this large-scale analysis highlights both the fragility of amphibian populations under climate stress and the steps that can help them cope - namely, curbing global temperatures and safeguarding vital habitats with adequate cover and water.



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Amphibians are being pushed beyond their heat limits

A recent study offers a clearer picture of which amphibians...

An extensive, decades-long analysis tracking endangered caribou populations has revealed that migration patterns are eroding in both distance and duration. Researchers attribute this decline largely to human-caused habitat disturbances rather than shifts in climate.&nbsp;



The work, led by Dr. Clayton Lamb of <a href="https://www.ubc.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of British Columbia</a> (UBC), emphasizes the urgency of safeguarding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-caribou-movement-patterns-can-transform-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caribou</a> habitats and their time-honored migratory routes.



“Western science and Indigenous knowledge recognize the critical role of migration in sustaining abundant wildlife populations, yet these movements are increasingly disrupted by human activity worldwide,” Lamb said.&nbsp;



“We studied the extent and type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-behaviors-are-shaped-by-experience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> as well as changes through time, and determined if these changes correlated with landscape disturbance or shifts in weather.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shrinking-caribou-migrations">Shrinking caribou migrations</h2>



The research team examined data spanning 35 years (from 1987 to 2022), which included 1,704,842 geolocation points from radio tags and GPS collars. More than 800 individual animals across 27 southern mountain caribou subpopulations provided a massive dataset.&nbsp;



By comparing the timing and distances traveled over three and a half decades, scientists gleaned new insights into how caribou movement is shifting.



“The data shows that most of these subpopulations remain migratory to some degree, but seasonal migrations appear to be shrinking in both duration and extent,” Lamb said.&nbsp;



“Though our study spanned just 35 years - a blink compared to millennia caribou have been migrating here - we found migration eroding, not due to weather shifts, but alongside expanding human disturbance and caribou population decline.”



Caribou have traditionally migrated in response to food availability, snowpack conditions, and predation pressures, using both elevational (vertical) and horizontal movements.&nbsp;



Barren-ground caribou in the far north, for example, routinely traverse hundreds of kilometers, sometimes in vast herds. Southern mountain caribou travel smaller distances, but they once performed significant up-and-down journeys among mountainous and forested regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-caused-habitat-disturbance">Human-caused habitat disturbance</h2>



While the researchers tested the influence of changing weather patterns, they found no significant correlation between the shifts in migration and climate variables. Instead, they identified industrial and resource development as the primary factor affecting migration routes.



“Due to their southern distribution, these caribou are exposed to higher levels of human-caused landscape disturbance and associated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-species-are-shifting-their-habitats-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat</a> change and loss," explained Lamb. 



"Observations from Indigenous communities, local people, scientists and government biologists indicate that southern mountain caribou migrations are changing or not happening at all."



Signs of development - such as logging, oil and gas extraction, road-building, and other infrastructure projects - have transformed much of the caribou’s original habitat.&nbsp;



By subdividing forests and carving out new corridors, these changes can boost predator access and fragment the terrain, making traditional migratory routes untenable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-decline-in-caribou-migration">Significant decline in caribou migration </h2>



“Southern mountain caribou migration, including the distance and elevation change, has declined significantly over the past 40 years, and we believe these changes are correlated with human-caused disturbances, including change and loss to habitat,” said Adam Ford, director of UBC’s Wildlife Restoration Ecology Lab.



In 1983, just 5% of the area inhabited by these caribou subpopulations had been disturbed by human activities (like reservoirs, logging, and resource extraction), whereas natural disturbances - for instance, from fire or pests - accounted for a mere 0.3%. By 2020, however, more than 30% of the same landscape had been altered by human use.



“Within the last 35 years, human-caused disturbance increased nearly sixfold within the ranges of the caribou subpopulations. Beyond impacts to migration, habitat disturbance - which has disrupted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a> - is a primary cause of caribou population declines,” Ford said.&nbsp;



“It’s important to note the southern mountain caribou population declined by more than 50 per cent over the period of our investigation.”



This steep population drop coincides with the observed erosion of migratory behavior, signaling that caribou now struggle to adapt to an environment fragmented by industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-ecological-balance">Restoring ecological balance </h2>



“Sustaining caribou populations and their migratory behavior into the future will require a rapid change in managing the landscape that facilitates extensive habitat conservation, restoration and a reduction in ongoing human-caused disturbance,” Lamb said.



Consequently, the study suggests that reversing these trends will require robust habitat protection efforts and stricter oversight of resource extraction. 



Creating buffer zones, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-trees-is-important-but-reforestation-can-help-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reforesting</a> clear-cut areas, and adopting management strategies to limit predator access are essential steps.



“Creating a landscape with suitable caribou habitats and lower predator densities that can once again sustain caribou is imperative to preserve their migratory behaviorr and support recovery efforts,” Lamb concluded.



Experts agree that a sustained effort to restore ecological balance could keep caribou on the move. Without prompt and meaningful intervention, further disruptions could eliminate both the migration patterns and the herds themselves - losing a millennia-old aspect of the mountain ecosystem.&nbsp;



Through collaboration among governments, industries, local communities, and Indigenous groups, conservation initiatives may still preserve this species’ ancient migratory legacy.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70095" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>



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Caribou migration patterns disrupted by human activities

An extensive, decades-long analysis tracking endangered caribou populations has revealed...

Obsidian,(volcanic,Glass)

A young man’s remains from 79 AD have left experts speechless. His skeleton, found in the ancient town of <a href="https://www.herculaneum.ox.ac.uk/about-us/story-of-herculaneum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Herculaneum</a>, revealed something that no one expected. Fragments of his brain appear to have turned into shiny, black glass.



Volcanologist <a href="https://www.geologicalfieldtripsandmaps.com/N12/guido-giordano.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guido Giordano</a>, from the Department of Science at <a href="https://www.uniroma3.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roma Tre University</a>, is part of a team that studied this strange <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-next-big-volcano-eruption-will-cause-global-chaos-climate-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phenomenon</a>.



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



Archaeologists discovered the man during excavations in the 1960s, lying on a wooden bed in a building that was devoted to honoring <a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/Augustus-Roman-emperor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emperor Augustus</a>. He was probably around 20 years old.



When nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted, waves of burning ash swept over Herculaneum. Researchers say that, at some point, the extreme heat transformed parts of his brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-mount-vesuvius-the-basics">Understanding Mount Vesuvius - the basics</h2>



Mount Vesuvius is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. It looms over the Bay of Naples in Italy, standing as both a breathtaking natural wonder and a ticking geological time bomb. 



Back in 79 AD, the eruption that is the subject of this article buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under thick layers of ash and lava, freezing them in time. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mount-vesuvius-volcano_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mount-vesuvius-volcano_1s.webp" alt="Mount Vesuvius in Italy" class="wp-image-1961612"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mount Vesuvius in Italy</figcaption></figure>



That eruption remains one of the deadliest in history, killing thousands and leaving behind eerily preserved ruins that give us a rare glimpse into ancient life. 



Today, scientists keep a close eye on Vesuvius, since it’s still very much active and sits dangerously close to millions of people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-turned-into-glass">How the brain turned into glass</h2>



According to the new analysis, temperatures above 950°F (510°C) would have been needed. The tissue then had to cool fast enough to avoid crystallizing.



“This is an amazing and truly unexpected find,” exclaimed Giordano. <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-88894-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> point out that most organic matter would simply burn to ashes at this temperature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-it-mattered-for-scientists">Why it mattered for scientists</h2>



This unique case highlights a rarely seen effect of hot ash clouds, which are known as <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-dangerous-are-pyroclastic-flows" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pyroclastic flows</a>. Such clouds can blast into an area at <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">high temperatures</a> and then rapidly recede.



One reason the brain fragments remained is that the surrounding deposit was not hot enough to remelt the glass. 



That deposit reached roughly 869°F (465°C), which is lower than the point where the glassy tissue would revert to a softer form.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-about-a-rare-event">Clues about a rare event</h2>



Researchers say that the first scorching surge struck Herculaneum minutes before the main flow arrived. That could explain how this man’s brain was briefly exposed to extreme heat but then cooled.



Complex neuron and spinal cord structures remained embedded in the hardened material. These delicate features rarely survive in such clarity.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mt-vesuvius-volcano_collegium-augustalium_brain-turns-to-glass_credit-Scientific-Reports_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mt-vesuvius-volcano_collegium-augustalium_brain-turns-to-glass_credit-Scientific-Reports_1s.webp" alt="(a) Carbonized body of the guardian in his wooden bed within the Collegium Augustalium; the vitrified brain remains have been found within his skull. (b) Panoramic eastward view of Herculaneum ruins with Vesuvius volcano in the background, and the location of the Collegium Augustalium within the city. Credit: Scientific Reports" class="wp-image-1961615"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(a) Carbonized body of the guardian in his wooden bed within the Collegium Augustalium; the vitrified brain remains have been found within his skull. (b) Panoramic eastward view of Herculaneum ruins with Vesuvius volcano in the background, and the location of the Collegium Augustalium within the city. Credit: Scientific Reports</figcaption></figure>



Scientists examined the fragments with electron microscopes. They noticed patterns that align with known neuronal shapes, including <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554388/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">axons</a>.



Internal pores in the glassy chunks hinted at water vapor escaping from the tissue. The result was an almost volcanic obsidian-like appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-did-this-man-s-brain-turn-to-glass">Why did this man’s brain turn to glass?</h2>



All other humans in Herculaneum at the time appear to have fled toward the sea. This man did not.



“Maybe he was drunk,” joked Giordano. He suspects the victim was simply overwhelmed by the sudden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-a-glass-preserved-brain">Insights from a glass-preserved brain</h2>



Understanding how extreme heat affects human remains could help experts reconstruct events in ancient and modern disasters. 



This case challenges previous assumptions about how bodies react in high-temperature environments.



It also raises questions about other potential instances of vitrified tissue that may have gone unnoticed in the past. If similar cases exist, they could provide further insights into the effects of pyroclastic flows on the human body.



Researchers may now look for evidence of this phenomenon at other volcanic sites where high heat and rapid cooling occurred.



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



Hot ash clouds can be extremely dangerous. Some modern fatalities, such as those near <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8674289/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guatemala’s Fuego</a> volcano in 2018, likely involved these blasts.



Giordano explained that buildings near active volcanoes might need heat-resistant designs. Such measures could allow people a brief chance to escape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-a-single-discovery">Beyond a single discovery</h2>



Volcanic eruptions have shaped human history by burying entire cities. Pompeii is often in the spotlight, yet Herculaneum reveals equally gripping scenes.



The glass brain fragments remain the only known example of this natural process in human tissue. Their formation required fast heating, rapid cooling, and a precise window of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruption-zavaritzki-that-cooled-the-earth-and-turned-the-sun-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-on-ancient-life-and-death">Insights on ancient life and death</h2>



Study co-authors believe the victim was part of a religious community. The building where he was found was dedicated to the worship of Augustus.



The exact details of his final moments might stay unknown. Still, his remains add a layer of understanding to what happened that deadly day.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-88894-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Man's brain turned to glass after volcanic eruption, scientists think they know why

A young man’s remains from 79 AD have left experts...

Many people are interested in fresh protein sources that balance health benefits and greener production methods. Studies continue to reveal options that might fit the bill for those seeking new dietary ingredients.



The primary focus has now shifted to plant-derived proteins, including hemp seeds. Dr. Juan Presa-Lombardi from the <a href="https://udelar.edu.uy/portal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Republic</a> has worked with colleagues to shed more light on this subject.



Consumers often seek foods that combine practicality and positive impacts on the environment. Hemp seeds are a promising candidate. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-quality-protein-content">High-quality protein content</h2>



Early research highlights the advantageous amino acid profile of hemp seeds along with their versatility in cooking, making them a strong contender in the plant-based food industry.



“Hemp seeds are recognized for their high-quality protein content, which includes all nine essential amino acids,” stated Tănase Apetroaei, the lead author of a review on hemp seeds and functional foods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hemp-seeds-and-food-security">Hemp seeds and food security</h2>



Food producers are increasingly exploring alternatives to animal-based proteins. They realize that health-focused customers are demanding better choices.



The nutrient density and protein content of hemp seeds has brought them into discussions about food security. The plant grows in varied climates and might support innovations that rely on fewer resources.



“Aspirations abound for the plant-based meat and seafood industry to play a meaningful role in sustainably and efficiently feeding billions of people, mitigating the global impacts of climate change, and protecting public health,” stated the <a href="https://gfi.org/resource/analyzing-plant-based-meat-and-seafood-sales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Good Food Institute</a>. Focusing on plant-based products, points to a global surge in protein demand. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eco-friendly-food-production">Eco-friendly food production </h2>



<a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/journals/journalissues/gc#!recentarticles&amp;adv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Green chemistry</a>, which emphasizes processes with minimal waste and reduced toxicity, is part of the conversation around hemp-based products. This approach could align with the global push for eco-friendly industrial methods.



“Our green chemistry method provides an efficient, eco-friendly way to unlock the full nutritional potential of hemp seeds," said Dr. Presa-Lombardi.



"We see this as a game-changer for the alternative protein sector, offering high yields and excellent functionality without compromising sustainability.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-promise-of-hemp-seeds">The promise of hemp seeds</h2>



Nonprofits and advocacy organizations have stepped in to voice their opinions on the use of hemp seeds in foods.



The <a href="https://nationalhempassociation.org/what-can-eating-hemp-seeds-do-for-me/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Hemp Association</a> emphasizes their beneficial fatty acids and fiber, noting how hemp-based ingredients appear in both specialty health products and mainstream grocery items.



Food companies are testing whether hemp offers a fresh angle to stand out in a competitive market. A consistent supply, paired with straightforward processing steps, might appeal to producers and entrepreneurs alike.



Groups committed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-diets-can-reduce-environmental-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable diets</a> see potential in tapping underused crops. Hemp is part of a broader list of ingredients that might fit that description.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-health-food-markets">Beyond health food markets</h2>



Processors often look at how well a protein source can blend into various foods. Texture, flavor, and stability guide whether consumers find it appealing.



Hemp seeds have been tested in items like protein bars, baked goods, and dairy alternatives. This range suggests they can go beyond niche health food markets if further research confirms consistent quality.



Many people see hemp as part of a cultural shift toward less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/intensive-farming-raises-pandemic-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intensive farming</a> practices. This could link hemp seeds to products labeled “natural” or “organic,” though the meaning of these terms can vary across brands.



Some <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0360132324003123" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> also note hemp’s adaptability across geographical regions, hinting that local producers might incorporate it without major changes in their operations. This might encourage smaller-scale farms to participate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-extraction-and-processing">Improving extraction and processing </h2>



Communities familiar with hemp farming appreciate its historical significance. Modern developments add layers of technology and scientific rigor that might address doubts about efficiency.



Others wonder if hemp-based foods can remain cost-competitive. New information and improved extraction methods could be what it takes to reassure buyers.



Further research is key. Collaborative efforts between scientists, business leaders, and farmers may improve processing techniques and push down costs. Studies will also be needed to test the palatability and appeal of hemp <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein</a> in foods.



This blend of research and commercial drive could determine whether hemp becomes a common ingredient. Every stakeholder has a role in shaping the outcome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-untapped-potential-of-hemp-seeds">Untapped potential of hemp seeds</h2>



Some see hemp’s cultivation as an environmentally conscious choice, although that depends on practices and regulations. Balancing profitability and ecological concerns can be tricky for any crop.



The appeal of a fast-growing, protein-rich resource is undeniable, which is why hemp continues to surface in conversations about the future of food.



Hemp seeds offer potential for those exploring new solutions. With rising consumer demand for plant-based protein, hemp could secure a lasting role in modern diets.



The study is published in the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11085560/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Food Science</a>.



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Hemp seeds could be a 'game-changer' as an alternative protein source

Many people are interested in fresh protein sources that balance...

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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

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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

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Big Bend National Park&nbsp;is an American&nbsp;national park&nbsp;located in&nbsp;West Texas, bordering Mexico. The park has national significance as the largest protected area of&nbsp;Chihuahuan Desert&nbsp;topography&nbsp;and&nbsp;ecology&nbsp;in the United States, and was named after a&nbsp;large bend&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Rio Grande/Río Bravo. &nbsp;The park protects more than 1,200 species of plants, more than 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals. Additional park activities include scenic drives, programs led by Big Bend park rangers, and stargazing.



There are&nbsp;four&nbsp;campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) operates three developed frontcountry campgrounds that provide drinking water and restroom facilities. In addition, a full hookup RV camping area is operated by the park concessioner, Forever Resorts. Reservations are required for Big Bend National Park Campgrounds. Reservations can be made by visiting&nbsp;recreation.gov. For visitors with rugged vehicles, or the willingness to leave the road behind and backpack into the wild, Big Bend provides options for&nbsp;backcountry camping. A backcountry permit is required for all backcountry camping and river trips.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

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