Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."



According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;



NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.



“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.



"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."



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



Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.



The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. 



The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. 



Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.



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



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is a tributary of the Congo River, one of the largest rivers in the world by discharge and depth.&nbsp;



The Ruki River, previously known as the Busira, merges with the Momboyo River near the town of Basankusu to become the Lulonga River, which eventually flows into the Congo River at the town of Lisala.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-waters-of-the-ruki-river">Dark waters of the Ruki River</h2>



"If the appearance of the muddy Amazon River evokes a coffee cut with cream, the Ruki River, coursing gently through the Congo Basin, is like a dark tea," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"On its slow path through mostly untouched lowland rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the water leaches organic material from vegetation, prompting some researchers to think it is one of the darkest blackwater rivers on Earth."



According to NASA, scientists are finding that the dissolved material in this distinctive water offers clues about the carbon cycle of tropical forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-compounds-in-the-ruki-river">Organic compounds in the Ruki River</h2>



In a recent study, researchers measured the chemical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-rivers-keep-antimicrobial-resistant-genes-at-bay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">composition</a> and flow of the Ruki for the first time.&nbsp;



"The study reported that, as the water color suggests, the Ruki is rich in dissolved organic carbon compounds," said NASA.



"It contains four times as much organic carbon as the Congo River and 1.5 times as much as the Rio Negro, the world’s largest blackwater river and a major tributary of the Amazon."



Due to this heavy carbon load, the researchers concluded that tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought.



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



The river is vital for the livelihoods of local communities. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fishing</a> is a crucial activity, with many people depending on it for sustenance and income. The river also supports agriculture along its banks, where communities grow crops.



In many parts of the DRC, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-are-warming-up-and-losing-oxygen-faster-than-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a> like the Ruki are crucial transportation corridors due to the challenging and often nonexistent road infrastructure. 



The river enables the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and access to markets, health care, and education.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-the-ruki-river">Wildlife of the Ruki River </h2>



The region around the Ruki River is home to diverse wildlife. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second-largest tropical rainforest area in the world, which is a critical habitat for endangered species.



Among the most notable species are elephants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-mean-chimpanzees-fare-better-in-life-than-nice-ones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a>, whose populations thrive in the surrounding forests. Other primates such as bonobos also live in this region, making it a critical area for primate conservation.



The river itself is home to various species of fish that are crucial to local livelihoods. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are often found in the water.



Birds like kingfishers, herons, and egrets frequent the riverbanks - making it a haven for birdwatchers.



The Ruki River also supports several species of reptiles and amphibians - some of which are unique to the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-the-river-s-resources">Managing the river's resources </h2>



The region faces several challenges, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-directly-linked-to-atmospheric-mercury-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>, overfishing, and environmental degradation, which threaten its ecological balance and the livelihoods of people who depend on it. 



Efforts to manage and conserve the river's resources are vital for sustainable development.



Understanding and protecting the Ruki River and its surroundings are crucial for the DRC's environmental sustainability, economic development, and the well-being of its communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscapes-of-the-drc">Landscapes of the DRC</h2>



The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boasts some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in Africa, reflecting its vast size and ecological richness. Dominated by the Congo Basin, the country is a haven for biodiversity.



Beyond its rainforests, the DRC's landscapes shift dramatically. In the east, the terrain rises into rugged mountains, including the Virunga and Rwenzori ranges, where snow-capped peaks like Mount Stanley pierce the sky. 



This region is also marked by active volcanoes such as Mount Nyiragongo, which harbors one of the world’s largest lava lakes, creating a dramatic and otherworldly spectacle.



To the south and west, the country transitions to expansive savannas with rolling grasslands and scattered trees. These areas contrast sharply with the lushness of the forests, providing vital habitats for species like lions and antelope. 



Rivers like the Ruki are a dominant feature, with the mighty Congo River coursing through the heart of the country. Its tributaries shape the lives of millions.



The image was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

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



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



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



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



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star is actually a less massive companion. The fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star formation</a> is a key process in the growth of galaxies, making these studies crucial for understanding galaxy evolution.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in the constellation Pavo

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



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



The snapshot provides not only a breathtaking view but also deep insights into the life cycle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> and the dynamic processes within nebulae.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the aftermath of a powerful nor’easter that dumped heavy snowfall across the northeastern United States.&nbsp;



The storm delivered measurable snowfall to 12 states up the East Coast, from North Carolina to Maine, and eight of those states received more than a foot of snow.&nbsp;



The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that more than 21 inches of snow were measured in Providence, Rhode Island, while 29 inches fell in Norton, Massachusetts. Boston tied its record for the most snowfall in a 24-hour period with 23.6 inches.



The snowfall was further intensified by hurricane force winds that blew in with the powerful nor’easter. According to NASA, a blizzard is defined as a period of at least three hours with falling snow, persistent wind gusts above 35 miles per hour, and visibility below 0.25 miles.&nbsp;



The NWS determined that blizzard conditions were reached in multiple locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, affecting as many as 11 million people. These conditions persisted in Marshfield, Massachusetts for 12 hours, while the nearby city of Boston endured blizzard conditions for nearly eight hours.&nbsp;



A multi-year project led by NASA, the Investigation of Microphysics and Precipitation for Atlantic Coast-Threatening Storms (IMPACTS), is the first comprehensive study of snowstorms across the Eastern United States in nearly 30 years. The science team includes researchers from NASA, several universities, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NASA scientist&nbsp;



The image was captured in the late afternoon on January 29 by Adrian Loftus while he was serving as an IMPACTS mission scientist on NASA’s P-3 Orion research plane. The goal of the study is to gain a better understanding of snowstorms in an effort to improve forecasting.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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

Powerful nor’easter "bombed" the East Coast

PanoRadar marks a breakthrough in the ever-advancing world of robotics, addressing the challenge of providing effective perception systems for robots that can function in severe weather and unfavorable conditions. 



Unlike traditional sensors, PanoRadar uses radio waves to penetrate smoke, fog, and even certain materials, offering a robust alternative to light-based systems. 



This innovative approach paves the way for more resilient robotic applications, from autonomous vehicles to rescue missions in hazardous environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-of-traditional-sensors">Limitations of traditional sensors</h2>



Current sensor systems, such as cameras or LiDAR, rely on light, which limits their effectiveness in conditions like heavy smoke or fog. Alternatively, they may rely on traditional radar which can 'see' through walls and other obstacles, but which produce images lacking in detail.



Nature, however, shows us that perception need not rely solely on light. Bats use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soundwaves-can-be-used-to-move-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sound wave</a> echoes for navigation, while sharks detect electrical fields from their prey's movements. 



These examples highlight alternative perception methods that can inform technological innovations, like radio wave-based sensing.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-radio-waves-disrupt-the-magnetic-compass-of-migratory-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Radio waves</a>, with their longer wavelengths, can penetrate challenging conditions and even certain materials, surpassing the limitations of human vision and conventional sensors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-panoradar-a-new-era-of-robot-vision">PanoRadar: A new era of robot vision</h2>



Enter researchers from the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a> School of Engineering and Applied Science (Penn Engineering). They have initiated a new era in robot vision with their creation, the PanoRadar.



This novel invention enables robots to perceive their surroundings in three dimensions with incredible detail, by transforming simple radio waves into detailed, 3-D images of the environment.



"Our initial question was whether we could combine the best of both sensing modalities - the robustness of radio signals, which is resilient to fog and other challenging conditions, and the high resolution of visual sensors," explained Mingmin Zhao, assistant professor of computer and information science.



The birth of PanoRadar is the novel answer to this complex challenge. It has opened new possibilities for robotic perception in environments where traditional systems fail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-panoradar-work">How does PanoRadar work?</h2>



Think about how a lighthouse works. It sweeps its beam in a circle, scanning the entire horizon, revealing the presence of ships and coastal features. That's how the PanoRadar operates. 



It consists of a rotating vertical array of antennae that scan the surroundings. These antennae send out radio waves and listen for their reflections from the environment.



But PanoRadar is not just a simple scanner. It intelligently combines measurements from all rotation angles, enhancing its imaging resolution. 



"The key innovation is in how we process these radio wave measurements. Our signal processing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-reveals-how-to-prevent-covid-19-from-ever-returning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a> algorithms are able to extract rich 3D information from the environment," explained Zhao.



This novel approach allows PanoRadar to achieve imaging resolution comparable to that of LiDAR, but at a fraction of the cost.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehending-and-interpreting-complex-data">Comprehending and interpreting complex data</h2>



Implementing high-resolution imaging while the robot is moving presented a significant challenge. The team needed to combine measurements from various positions with sub-millimeter accuracy.



"Even small motion errors can significantly impact the imaging quality," said Haowen Lai, lead author of the paper.



In addition, they had to train their system rigorously to comprehend and interpret the complex data it receives, to ensure that it could accurately identify and understand various objects and environmental features in real time.



"Indoor environments have consistent patterns and geometries. We leveraged these patterns to help our AI system interpret the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radar-imaging-will-help-protect-polar-bears-from-human-disturbances/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radar</a> signals, similar to how humans learn to make sense of what they see," explained Gaoxiang Luo.



Thanks to machine learning algorithms, the model was able to improve its understanding against reality using LiDAR data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-radio-waves-and-robot-vision">Radio waves and robot vision</h2>



PanoRadar’s capabilities extend beyond what traditional sensors can perceive.



"Our field tests across different buildings showed how radio sensing can excel where traditional sensors struggle," said Liu. "The system maintains precise tracking through smoke and can even map spaces with glass walls."



This advantage comes from the ability of radio waves to pass through airborne particles with ease, allowing the system to detect elements that LiDAR often misses, such as glass surfaces. 



Additionally, PanoRadar's high resolution enables it to identify people accurately, an essential capability for applications like autonomous vehicles and rescue operations in challenging environments.



These attributes make PanoRadar a game-changer for robots operating in difficult conditions, where reliability and precision are paramount.



The research will be presented at the 2024 International Conference on Mobile Computing and Networking (<a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sigmobile.org%2Fmobicom%2F2024%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MobiCom</a>).



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Giving robots 'superhuman' vision through radio waves

PanoRadar marks a breakthrough in the ever-advancing world of robotics,...

In a refreshing attempt to understanding animal consciousness and emotions, a group of researchers from various disciplines have come together to share their thoughts.



The research team was led by Dr. Marcela Benítez, assistant professor of anthropology at Emory University. 



"As far as we know, this is the first assessment of how animal behavior researchers across a range of disciplines think about emotions and consciousness in non-human animals," said Professor Benítez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantifying-animal-emotions">Quantifying animal emotions</h2>



The research shows that a majority of the researchers ascribed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-emotions-evoke-different-responses-in-dogs-and-pigs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a> to non-human primates (98%), mammals (89%), birds (78%), and even to octopus, squids, and cuttlefish (72%), and fish (53%). 



Incredibly, sentiments are even expressed towards invertebrates (71%) and insects (67%).



Anthromorphism - projecting human experiences onto <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> - and anthropodenial - the denial of any human characteristics in animals - were identified as hazards in animal behavioral research.



Surprisingly, 89% of the respondents thought anthropodenial was more problematic compared to only 49% who thought anthromorphism posed a risk. "That seems like a significant shift," said Professor Benítez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-animal-emotion-studies">History of animal emotion studies</h2>



The question of whether animals experience emotions has kept thinkers busy since Aristotle and Descartes. 



Charles Darwin also addressed this topic, writing that “the lower animals, like man, manifestly feel pleasure and pain, happiness and misery.” 



However, mid-20th-century behavioral theorists dismissed the study of animal emotions since these feelings were seen as scientifically unquantifiable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-study-of-animal-cognition">The study of animal cognition</h2>



The late primatologist Frans de Waal, an emeritus professor of psychology at Emory, revolutionized the study of animal cognition through his profound studies. 



"Frans de Waal definitely helped kick open the door," said Benítez, crediting him for enabling new scientists to question the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chick-emotions-shed-new-light-on-animal-welfare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner lives of animals</a>.



Matthew Zipple, a neurobiologist at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>’s Laboratory for Animal Social Evolution and Recognition, is the paper's first author. Emory postdoctoral fellow Mackenzie Webster and philosopher Caleb Hazelwood were also part of the team.



Professor Benítez, whose research focuses on cooperation and other social behaviors in capuchin monkeys, recognizes the influence of de Waal's work in her career.



"A key component of cooperation often involves forming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recognizing-emotions-in-horses-can-improve-their-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional bonds</a> with one another. So, I can’t shy away from considering emotions in my research," she said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survey-on-animal-emotions">Survey on animal emotions</h2>



To examine researchers' perceptions on animal emotions, Professor Benítez and her team developed a meticulous survey that was distributed to graduate school programs in animal behavior research across various disciplines.



The respondents included several specialities - behavioral ecologists, evolutionary biologists, neuroscientists, cognitive psychologists, biological psychologists, and more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-defining-emotion-in-animals">Challenges in defining emotion in animals</h2>



Towards the end of the survey, respondents were asked to define "emotion."



“I don’t have a clear definition either,” said Benítez. “I see emotions as a sort of internal process in responding to external stimuli that has an impact on how a situation is perceived. I go to the most basic definition because that allows us to explore that capacity in non-human primates.”



Animal studies present unique challenges. A key issue in lab experiments is replicating the animal's natural environment. In the wild, it's difficult to design and control the experiment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-solutions-for-age-old-challenges">Innovative solutions for age-old challenges</h2>



Professor Benítez is pioneering a new approach to bridge this gap. She co-directs the Capuchins de Taboga Costa Rica project, which studies both captive and wild capuchins.



Her team is using AI techniques, facial recognition software, and touch screen computers on presentation platforms in the wild to better understand capuchin monkey behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-implications-of-animal-studies">Ethical implications of animal studies</h2>



The exploration of animal consciousness and emotions extends beyond the realms of science and ethics, challenging the moral considerations and treatment of animals across various settings. 



Researchers must navigate complex ethical terrains, balancing scientific inquiry with the welfare and respectful treatment of the animals involved. 



The understanding that animals might possess emotions akin to humans necessitates humane treatment protocols and raises questions about the ethical implications of using animals in research, entertainment, and agriculture. 



As research in this field progresses, there remains an ongoing dialogue regarding the responsibility of scientists to advocate for policies that protect animal rights while advancing scientific knowledge.



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



Looking ahead, the future of animal emotion research promises to integrate even more advanced methodologies and cross-disciplinary collaborations that push the boundaries of our understanding. 



As AI and machine learning continue to evolve, these technologies offer new ways of analyzing and interpreting animal behaviors at unprecedented scales, providing deeper insights into their emotional lives. 



Additionally, promoting collaborations between behavioral scientists, technologists, ethicists, and policymakers can help develop innovative approaches that are scientifically rigorous and ethically sound. 



Embracing these future directions can drive the field toward more holistic understandings of non-human animals, ultimately transforming how society views and interacts with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal kingdom</a>.



“We’ve only scratched the surface of exploring what animals are capable of experiencing,” said Professor Benítez.



“Understanding the evolution of emotions is integral to understanding our own ancestry. In what ways are we a unique species? It’s an exciting time as new methods may help us better understand how an animal may be feeling and how that links to the decisions they make.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.241255" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Animals, possibly even insects, have emotions

In a refreshing attempt to understanding animal consciousness and emotions,...

The planet keeps surprising us with its hidden wonders, even in a time when we thought we had seen it all. The latest surprise is a gigantic coral organism, so immense that it can be seen from space, concealed below the waters of the Solomon Islands.



This colossal coral has a staggering circumference of 183 meters. It's not a simple, singular life form, but an intricate collection of individual coral polyps. 



The massive coral system is estimated to have been growing and expanding for the past three to five centuries.



The location of this underwater marvel? The region of the western <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-coral-reefs-have-naturally-increased-their-heat-tolerance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacific</a>, often referred to as the "coral triangle." 



The scientists who have brought this hidden gem to light are members of the National Geographic Pristine Seas team.



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



As active as a bustling city, yet as quiet as a vast desert, this formation is a haven teeming with an array of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1-8-million-species-are-yet-to-be-identified-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine species</a>, including various fish, crabs, and shrimps.



It isn't just a large rock but a living, pulsating ecosystem that's mostly brown with splashes of vivid yellows, blues, and reds. This magnificent coral is lovingly referred to as the "Pavona clavus."



According to Enric Sala, a marine ecologist and explorer in residence for <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nationalgeographic.com%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Geographic</a>, the discovery of this coral is as monumental as finding the world's tallest tree.



"Just when we think there is nothing left to discover on planet Earth, we find a massive coral made of nearly 1bn little polyps, pulsing with life and color," said Sala.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-millions-of-connected-organisms">Millions of connected organisms</h2>



The colossal coral stands in stark contrast to a traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-coral-reefs-crackle-with-the-sounds-of-busy-inhabitants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reef</a>. The latter is a complex network of many coral colonies, whereas this discovery is a standalone entity.



It has grown nonstop with polyps originating from larvae that settled on the seabed and then multiplied into millions of other genetically identical polyps over the centuries.



When the team initially spotted this organism, which is 34 meters wide, 32 meters long, and more than 5 meters high, they mistook it for a shipwreck. 



The expedition’s underwater cinematographer took the plunge more than 12 meters down to the coral and discovered it was, in fact, a Pavona clavus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-discovery-means">What this discovery means </h2>



Ronnie Posala, an officer for the Solomon Islands fisheries ministry, commented on the significance of the discovery. 



“For the people of the Solomon Islands, this mega coral discovery is monumental. It reinforces the importance of our ocean, which sustains our communities, traditions, and future," said Posala.



He emphasizes how such discoveries remind us of our duty to safeguard these natural wonders for their ecological value and the livelihoods and cultural identity they provide.



Eric Brown, a coral scientist for the Pristine Seas expedition, views the giant coral system as an encouraging sign. 



“While the nearby shallow reefs were degraded due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/in-warmer-seas-cold-spells-are-vanishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warmer seas</a>, witnessing this large healthy coral oasis in slightly deeper waters is a beacon of hope," said Brown. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-resilience-and-threats">Coral resilience and threats</h2>



The discovery of this giant coral serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of our complex marine ecosystems, but also highlights the ongoing threats they face.



Coral reefs worldwide are increasingly impacted by climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. 



The Solomon Islands' Pavona clavus, flourishing in slightly deeper waters, may highlight a potential adaptation strategy against warming seas, demonstrating that some corals may survive where others cannot.



Scientists hope that this remarkable find will prompt further research into how deeper-water corals manage to thrive despite changing conditions, potentially offering insights into preserving and protecting more vulnerable shallow reef systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-biggest-threats-to-coral-reefs">What are the biggest threats to coral reefs?</h2>



Coral reefs are under significant threat due to a combination of natural and human-induced factors. 



Climate change plays a major role, as rising ocean temperatures cause coral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-heatwave-led-to-massive-coral-bleaching-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bleaching</a> - a process where corals lose their vibrant colors and vital symbiotic algae, often leading to death.



Additionally, increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contribute to ocean acidification, which weakens coral skeletons and hinders their growth.



Human activities such as overfishing disrupt the delicate balance of reef ecosystems by removing key species that help maintain the health of the coral. 



Pollution further exacerbates the problem, with agricultural runoff introducing excessive nutrients into the water, leading to algal blooms that outcompete corals for sunlight and space. 



Efforts to protect coral reefs focus on addressing these threats through global and local actions, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing sustainable practices, and restoring damaged reef areas.



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Largest coral in the world found in the Solomon islands

The planet keeps surprising us with its hidden wonders, even...

When we think of oxytocin, the image of a warm embrace or the deep connection between a mother and her child often comes to mind. 



This hormone, often dubbed the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone," is famous for its role in fostering emotional bonds and promoting feelings of trust and empathy. 



But recent studies suggest that oxytocin might be doing much more behind the scenes, especially when it comes to how we learn and remember. And more surprisingly, it may also help cure addiction.



Leading this exciting exploration are Professor Akiyoshi Saitoh and researcher Junpei Takahashi from the <a href="https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokyo University of Science</a>, and Meredith Berry, Ph.D. from the <a href="http://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>. 



They have been delving into the intricate ways oxytocin influences our brains, potentially paving the way for new treatments for conditions like dementia and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioid addiction</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxytocin-s-role-in-memory">Oxytocin's role in memory</h2>



While oxytocin is well-known for its impact on social behaviors, its role in cognitive functions is less understood. 



Professor Saitoh's team wanted to uncover whether oxytocin could be a key player in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how memories are formed</a> and retained. 



“Previously we had suggested that oxytocin may be a new therapeutic candidate for dementia based on studies using a mouse model of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-disease-attacks-the-brain-in-two-separate-phases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s disease</a>,” he shared. 



“To investigate this further, in this study, we examined the role of endogenous oxytocin in mouse cognitive function.”



Using advanced techniques, the researchers specifically activated oxytocin neurons in certain brain regions of mice. 



They then evaluated the mice's memory using tasks designed to test recognition and recall, like the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/novel-object-recognition-test" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novel Object Recognition Task</a>. 



This method helps scientists determine how well an animal can recognize a new object compared to one they've seen before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peering-into-the-brain-s-memory-centers">Peering into the brain's memory centers</h2>



The brain is a complex network, and understanding how different areas interact is crucial. 



The team noticed that when they stimulated oxytocin neurons in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN), there was increased activity not only there but also in the supramammillary nucleus (SuM). 



These regions are connected and play roles in memory and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional responses</a>.



By observing markers that indicate neuron activation, they confirmed that these areas were more active following their interventions. 



Interestingly, while the mice didn't show significant changes in short-term memory tasks, there was a noticeable improvement in long-term memory, particularly in recognizing new objects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxytocin-connection-to-dementia">Oxytocin connection to dementia</h2>



These findings have significant implications. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-medicine-shows-potential-to-treat-and-prevent-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dementia</a>, including Alzheimer's disease, affects millions worldwide, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. 



Understanding how oxytocin influences memory could lead to new therapies that slow down or mitigate these effects.



There's also a broader social context. Many believe that loneliness and lack of social interaction can worsen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dementia-was-extremely-rare-in-ancient-times-so-why-is-it-now-so-prevalent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia symptoms</a>. 



“There is a widely acknowledged belief that dementia tends to advance more rapidly in settings where individuals experience loneliness or limited social engagement. However, the scientific underpinnings of this phenomenon have remained largely elusive," Professor Saitoh pointed out.



By highlighting oxytocin's role, the research suggests that stimulating social interactions -- or even directly targeting oxytocin pathways -- might help in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diabetes-drugs-may-protect-against-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">managing dementia</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxytocin-and-opioid-addiction">Oxytocin and opioid addiction</h2>



Across the globe, another team is exploring oxytocin's potential in a different arena. 



At the University of Florida, researchers are investigating whether a synthetic version of oxytocin can help curb opioid addictions, a pressing issue affecting many communities.



“The idea is that physicians could potentially prescribe, in combination, an opioid and oxytocin as an acute <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain management</a> option, while at the same time lessening the likelihood of developing an addiction to opioids,” explained Dr. Meredith Berry.



Working alongside Dr. Yenisel Cruz-Almeida and Dr. Natalie Ebner, Dr. Berry is examining whether oxytocin can reduce pain effectively while also decreasing the desire for prolonged opioid use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opioids-are-still-a-huge-problem">Opioids are still a huge problem</h2>



Opioid addiction has become a significant public health concern, particularly in the United States. 



Prescription opioids, while effective for managing pain, carry a high risk of addiction. Older adults, who often require pain management, can be particularly vulnerable.



By exploring alternatives that reduce pain without the same addictive potential, researchers hope to offer safer options for patients. 



Oxytocin's natural role in promoting well-being might counteract some of the addictive properties of opioids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healing-addiction-with-oxytocin">Healing addiction with oxytocin</h2>



In their carefully designed study, the University of Florida team is working with participants aged 55 to 85 who have some history of opioid use. 



In a controlled setting, these participants will receive synthetic oxytocin via a nasal spray or a placebo after taking oral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-identify-a-route-to-safer-painkillers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxycodone</a>.



The researchers will collect data on how much the participants enjoy the drugs, as well as monitor physical responses like heart rate and breathing. 



They'll also assess cognitive and emotional reactions. To measure pain responses, they will apply mild mechanical pressure to the thighs and expose the hands to varying temperatures.



Dr. Ebner will analyze mood changes and cognitive effects, while Dr. Cruz-Almeida will examine how the drugs affect pain responses. 



Dr. Berry will evaluate the potential for reduced opioid addiction based on these findings. Physicians from the university's College of Medicine are involved to ensure participant safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-oxytocin-the-wonder-drug-of-the-future">Is oxytocin the "wonder drug" of the future?</h2>



The combined efforts of these research teams highlight the versatility of oxytocin, putting the "love hormone" on the radar of scientists of all disciplines around the world.



From potentially enhancing memory and combating dementia to offering new strategies for pain management without the high risk of addiction, oxytocin's benefits could be far-reaching.



These studies underscore the importance of looking beyond traditional uses of well-known substances. Sometimes, the key to solving complex health issues lies in re-examining what we thought we knew.



The journey of oxytocin from a simple "love hormone" to a potential powerhouse in medical treatment is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of science. 



As researchers like Professor Saitoh and Dr. Berry continue their work, we can look forward to new discoveries that might improve the quality of life for many.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0294113" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS One</a>.



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"Cuddle hormone" fosters love, boosts memory, and now also cures addiction

When we think of oxytocin, the image of a warm...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Rare Triassic fossil discovery may rewrite the history of dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

Have you ever looked back and felt like the years just vanished overnight? You're not the only one. Many of us notice that as we age, our perception of time changes. 



Days and years seem to speed by, leaving us wondering what changed. Is it just our busy lives, or is there something deeper happening in our brains?



Scientists are diving into this age-old mystery to uncover why time feels like it's racing against us. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-perception-of-time">Human perception of time</h2>



From changes in how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-experiences-alter-time-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">minds process information</a> to the routines that shape our daily lives, there's a lot going on behind the scenes.



Adrian Bejan, a researcher at <a href="https://www.duke.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a> with decades of experience, offers a fascinating perspective on this phenomenon. 



He suggests that our perception of time changes due to physical alterations in our brains and bodies as we age.



But let's unpack this idea step by step. Why do some days feel longer or shorter than others? And why does time seem to fly by as we get older?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clock-time-vs-mind-time">"Clock time" vs. "mind time"</h2>



According to Bejan, there's a distinction between measurable clock time and the time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-motion-exercise-changes-our-perception-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceived by our minds</a>. 



He explains, "The measurable ‘clock time’ is not the same as the time perceived by the human mind. The ‘mind time’ is a sequence of images, i.e., reflections of nature that are fed by stimuli from sensory organs."



In simpler terms, our brains process a series of mental images based on what we see, hear, and experience. 



When we're young, our brains receive and process these images more rapidly. As we age, this processing slows down due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-rate-influences-our-perception-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical changes</a> like the degradation of neural pathways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-some-days-feel-longer">Why some days feel longer</h2>



Have you noticed that days filled with new experiences or productivity seem longer? That's because your mind is processing more information and creating more mental images. 



When you're well-rested, your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-bend-time-to-adapt-to-lifes-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain operates</a> more efficiently, allowing you to take in more of the world around you.



Think about athletes who perform best when they're rested. "Lack of rest makes you miss plays, unable to anticipate, unable to see the ball before it arrives," Bejan notes. 



The same goes for students taking exams; a well-rested mind can work through problems more thoroughly, making the exam period feel longer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perception-of-time-based-on-routine">Perception of time based on routine</h2>



Cindy Lustig, a psychology professor at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, offers another angle. She points out that as we age, our lives often become more routine. 



"When we are older, we tend to have lives that are more structured around routines, and fewer of the big landmark events that we use to demarcate different epochs of the ‘time of our lives,’" says Lustig.



With fewer new experiences, our brains lump similar days and weeks together. This can make time feel like it's passing more quickly because there are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-and-adults-perceive-time-differently/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fewer memorable events</a> to distinguish one period from another.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-s-impact-on-time-perception">Social media's impact on time perception</h2>



In today's digital age, excessive use of social media can also distort our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sense of time</a>. When we dive into our favorite apps, we're met with an endless stream of posts, videos, and updates that continuously stimulate our senses. 



This constant engagement can make minutes turn into hours without us noticing. The design of these platforms often encourages prolonged usage through features like infinite scrolling and autoplay videos, which can trap us in a loop where we lose track of how much time has actually passed.



Moreover, excessive use of social media can lead to sleep deprivation, especially when we stay up late scrolling through our feeds. 



Lack of adequate sleep affects our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-cells-in-the-brain-are-key-to-complex-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive functions</a>, making it harder for us to process information efficiently. This can further alter our perception of time, making days feel shorter and less memorable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-changes-in-the-aging-brain">Physical changes in the aging brain</h2>



Bejan emphasizes that physical changes in our brains contribute significantly to this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-reveals-common-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">altered perception</a>. 



"The rate at which changes in mental images are perceived decreases with age because of several physical features that change with age: saccades frequency, body size, pathways degradation, etc.," he explains.



As our neural pathways degrade over time, our brains take longer to process new information. 



This slower processing speed means we're generating fewer mental images in the same amount of clock time, making time seem to pass faster.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-friendly-debate-among-experts">Friendly debate among experts</h2>



While Bejan's theory is compelling, Lustig isn't entirely convinced it tells the whole story. 



She challenges some of his points, especially regarding physical changes like head size affecting perception. 



"He makes some argument about the length of the optic nerve related to head size, and I will let you judge whether an 80-year-old has a substantially larger head than a 25-year-old," Lustig remarks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-really-going-on-with-time">What's really going on with time?</h2>



The truth might be a blend of both perspectives. Our perception of time likely changes due to a combination of physical changes in our brains and the way we experience life as we age. 



With fewer novel experiences and a slower processing speed, time seems to accelerate.



But here's something to ponder: Can we slow down our perception of time by actively seeking new experiences and staying mentally engaged? It's worth considering.



Perhaps the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-can-lead-to-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">key lies in mindfulness</a> and breaking out of routines. By introducing variety into our lives and challenging our minds, we might recapture that youthful sense of time stretching out before us.



Have you tried picking up a new hobby or exploring a new place recently? How did it affect your perception of time?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-perception-and-the-human-experience">Time, perception, and the human experience</h2>



To sum it all up, our sense that time speeds up as we age seems to stem from both physical changes in our brains and the routines we fall into over the years.



As we get older, our brains process new information more slowly due to the degradation of neural pathways.



This slower processing means we perceive fewer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-dreams-influence-our-perceptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental images</a> in the same amount of clock time, making days and years feel like they pass more quickly.



Meanwhile, as we get older, we tend to have more structured lives filled with routines and fewer novel experiences. 



This lack of new events makes it harder for our brains to distinguish one day from the next, contributing to the sensation that time is slipping away.



While scientists like Bejan and Lustig continue to explore this intriguing topic, one thing is clear: our perception of time is deeply personal and influenced by many factors.



By actively seeking new experiences and staying mentally engaged, we might just slow down our perception of time and make each moment count a little more.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-review/article/why-the-days-seem-shorter-as-we-get-older/2CB8EC9B0B30537230C7442B826E42F1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Review</a>.



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Time flies by much faster as we get older, and now we know why

Have you ever looked back and felt like the years...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

Today&#8217;s Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Cyclone Batsirai in the Indian Ocean. The storm has rapidly intensified into the equivalent of a Category 4 Atlantic hurricane with sustained winds near 145 miles per hour.



Batsirai is headed for Madagascar, where people are still trying to recover from another cyclone that hit just two weeks ago.&nbsp;



The death toll from Tropical Storm Ana, which is currently at 80, continues to rise. Hundreds of thousands of people were impacted by heavy rainfall and flash flooding.&nbsp;



Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. The region has been hit hard by back-to-back years of severe drought. Last year, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported that more than one million people in southern Madagascar were struggling to get enough to eat, due to what could become the first famine caused by climate change.



Madagascar is expected to take a direct hit from Cyclone Batsirai. According to forecasts from the U.S. Joint Typhoon Warning Center, the cyclone is likely to make landfall in Madagascar late on February 4.



The nearby island nation of Mauritius reportedly escaped without &#8220;major damage&#8221; from Batsirai.&nbsp;



The image was captured on February 2, 2022 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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

Cyclone Batsirai bears down on Madagascar

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a massive winter storm that stretched nearly 2,000 miles across the United States.



According to NASA, the storm began on February 1 with a cold front surging from the Rockies to the Midwest and bringing extreme cold and heavy snowfall. By the end of the week, the system had dumped a mix of snow, freezing rain, and ice across more than dozen states from Texas to Maine.&nbsp;



The National Weather Service reports that temperatures dropped 15 to 30 degrees below average across the Plains and Ohio Valley.&nbsp;



NASA says that freezing rain and sleet covered roads and trees, brought down power lines and caused extensive power outages and hazardous travel conditions. Thousands of flights were canceled.&nbsp;



Snowfall totals hit the double digits in dozens of cities. On February 4, wind chill and hard freeze advisories remained in effect for many areas. 



When the brutal winter storm arrived, many places on the East Coast were still digging out from a blizzard that hit the last week of January.



The image was captured on February 3, 2022 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-20 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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