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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features ice on Lake Michigan in late January 2025, when extreme cold settled into the Chicago area.



“Between January 19 and 24, 2025, a brutal cold snap hit Chicago. This satellite image captured a glimpse of the wintry aftermath,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153885/a-chill-over-chicagoland" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the first half of the cold spell was the most intense.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-spells-and-snowfall">Cold spells and snowfall</h2>



Cold spells in the Chicago area are often accompanied by strong winds and significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-has-decreased-in-recent-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowfall</a>.



“On January 21, the air temperature in Chicago reached as low as minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 26 degrees Celsius). At the time, little to no snow covered the ground in Chicago, which NWS noted is uncommon amid sub-zero temperatures,” said NASA.



“Snowflakes returned toward the end of the cold spell. Between the mornings of January 22 and 23, several waves of snowfall produced the blanket of white across the Chicago area visible in this image.”



“Another expanse of white is visible atop Lake Michigan. This is lake ice, which grows on the Great Lakes each winter, though its extent and timing can be highly variable. Ice coverage on the Great Lakes typically reaches its annual peak in late February or early March.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visible-ice-patterns">Visible ice patterns</h2>



Jia Wang, an ice climatologist at NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), noted that on January 24, winds were blowing offshore and pushing ice away from the coastline.



In the photo, areas of dark, thin ice can be seen close to the shore, while patchy areas of bright white ice are visible away from shore. According to Wang, the whiter areas might be due to ice that has piled up and formed a very rough surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cover-on-lake-michigan-nbsp">Ice cover on Lake Michigan&nbsp;</h2>



“The area of Lake Michigan covered with ice in late January 2025 hovered around the historical average (1973-2024) for the time of year, according to data from GLERL. When the image was acquired, ice covered about 20 percent of the lake,” noted NASA.



“Meanwhile, several hundred miles to the east, ice on Lake Erie spiked well above average in late January, according to GLERL, with ice spanning around 80 percent of the lake. The ice was thick enough to temporarily immobilize a Canadian cargo freighter, according to news reports.”



To calculate the thickness of ice on the Great Lakes, experts are investigating ways to use altimetry data from NASA’s ICESat-2 (Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite-2).



Eric Anderson, a researcher at the Colorado School of Mines, noted that such measurements could improve ice and weather <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-forecasting-ai-will-improve-extreme-weather-warnings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecasting</a> as well as help us understand changes in Earth’s surface freshwater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-on-the-great-lakes">Ice on the Great Lakes</h2>



Ice formation on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-craters-found-in-the-bottom-of-lake-michigan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Lakes</a> is a dynamic process influenced by seasonal temperatures, wind patterns, and climate variability.&nbsp;



Each year, ice begins to develop in late fall and early winter, typically forming first in sheltered bays and shallow areas before extending over deeper waters.&nbsp;



The extent and duration of ice cover vary significantly, with some years experiencing widespread freezing while others see only partial coverage due to warmer conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluctuations-in-ice-coverage">Fluctuations in ice coverage</h2>



Historically, ice coverage on the Great Lakes has fluctuated, with long-term records showing a decline in ice extent due to rising global temperatures.&nbsp;



The lakes act as vast heat reservoirs, meaning their large thermal mass can delay freezing, especially in milder winters.&nbsp;



When ice does form, it affects local weather patterns, contributing to lake-effect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a> in surrounding regions. It also impacts ecosystems, as ice cover influences fish spawning, winter survival of aquatic organisms, and shoreline <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fighting-coastal-erosion-electricity-turns-sand-into-a-sea-wall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">erosion</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-variability-in-ice-cover-nbsp">Increasing variability in ice cover&nbsp;</h2>



In recent decades, scientists have observed increasing variability in ice cover, with some years experiencing near-record lows. 



This trend impacts commercial shipping in two key ways: reduced ice cover can extend the navigational season, but unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles make ice-breaking operations more challenging.



Additionally, ice conditions influence recreational activities such as ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling - all of which depend on stable and thick ice.



Overall, ice on the Great Lakes is a key indicator of changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a>, with its variability providing insights into broader environmental shifts.&nbsp;



The image was captured on January 24, 2025 with the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Chicago cold spell brings ice to Lake Michigan 

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



In recent years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-warming-toward-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> has faced environmental challenges due to reduced water inflows and increased evaporation, leading to higher salinity levels and a decline in biodiversity. 



Efforts to address these issues are essential to preserve the ecological and economic significance of Lake Razzaza.



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



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



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



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



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



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



Ecologically, the Euphrates supports a range of habitats, from wetlands to desert ecosystems, making it home to diverse flora and fauna.&nbsp;



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



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



Image Credit: NASA



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features dust streaming off the coast of Iran in January 2025.



“Some of the desert dust was carried across the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Peninsula, degrading air quality for those in its path,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153859/desert-dust-streams-from-iran" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The airborne material appears to primarily originate in the dried bed of the intermittent lake known as Hamun-e Jazmurian (Hamun-e Jaz Murian), while some may be blown from coastal areas. Along with arid regions such as the Garagum and Lut deserts and the Sistan Basin, the lakebed is a major source of dust in southwest Asia.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precipitation-in-the-jazmurian-basin">Precipitation in the Jazmurian Basin</h2>



According to NASA, some parts of the Jazmurian Basin receive less than four inches of rain annually, on average, and evaporation rates are high. During wet times, however, an intermittent lake, marshlands, and other vegetation can cover parts of the basin. 



“Terra’s MODIS sensor has previously captured images of the area when water is present in Hamun-e Jazmurian and when green vegetation fringes the lakebed,” said NASA.



“In early 2025, the land was dry enough for winds to blow dust plumes south-southwest over the Gulf of Oman. Dust traveled across the water to the coast of the United Arab Emirates, where the haze reduced visibility in places, according to news reports.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-particles-in-dust-storms">Particles in dust storms</h2>



In addition to disrupting transportation and other daily activities, the suspended particles in dust storms can pose significant health risks. Recent research has revealed that dust from the Jazmurian Basin often contains heavy metals and other potentially harmful substances, such as silica and organic pollutants, which can negatively impact both human and ecosystem health.&nbsp;



Prolonged exposure to these particles has been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as well as the exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions like asthma and bronchitis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-impact-of-dust-storms">Environmental impact of dust storms</h2>



Moreover, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-is-an-understudied-contributor-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a> of dust storms extends beyond human health. The fine particles can settle on vegetation, reducing photosynthesis and agricultural productivity.&nbsp;



Dust deposition can also alter soil composition by introducing heavy metals and changing nutrient balances, which may affect crop growth and soil microbial communities. Such changes can lead to long-term degradation of arable land and disrupt local food security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-in-the-jazmurian-basin">Dust in the Jazmurian Basin </h2>



Communities near the Jazmurian Basin are particularly vulnerable to the effects of these dust storms due to limited access to healthcare and mitigation resources. 



Seasonal changes and climatic conditions, including prolonged droughts and desertification, further intensify the frequency and severity of dust storms in the region.&nbsp;



This creates a cycle of environmental and health challenges, making it imperative to develop strategies for prevention and adaptation.



Addressing these issues requires coordinated efforts at the local, national, and international levels. Potential measures include reforestation and soil stabilization projects to reduce dust emissions, stricter regulations to limit activities that contribute to desertification, and public health initiatives to educate communities on protective measures during dust events.&nbsp;



Investing in early warning systems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-driven-wildfires-worsen-u-s-air-quality-and-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> monitoring can also help minimize exposure and protect both human populations and the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-jazmurian-basin">Significance of the Jazmurian Basin</h2>



The Jazmurian Basin is a prominent endorheic basin located in southeastern Iran, spanning parts of the provinces of Sistan and Baluchestan as well as Kerman. It lies at the heart of an arid region characterized by sparse vegetation, high temperatures, and limited rainfall.&nbsp;



The basin is primarily fed by the Halil and Bampur rivers, which provide seasonal water flow to the basin's low-lying areas. At its center lies the Jazmurian Depression, which forms a seasonal playa or shallow lake, though it often dries up during extended dry periods.&nbsp;



The area holds geological and archaeological significance, offering insights into ancient human settlements and environmental changes over time.&nbsp;



Despite its harsh climate, the basin supports small-scale agriculture in its peripheries and serves as a critical habitat for certain desert-adapted flora and fauna. Climate change and water management challenges have intensified the environmental pressures faced by this fragile ecosystem.



The image was captured on January 22 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite.&nbsp;



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Dust rises from the Jazmurian Basin in Iran

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Messier 82, a starburst galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. This galaxy is actively forming new stars at a rate ten times that of the Milky Way.



In a study using the <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST), an international team of astronomers has taken an unprecedented look at Messier 82 (M82), revealing intricate details about its frenzied star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-nircam">The power of NIRCam</h2>



The study, led by Alberto Bolatto, utilized Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) to penetrate the thick dust and gas covering the galaxy's core, a region critical to understanding <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>.&nbsp;



"M82 has garnered a variety of observations over the years because it can be considered as the prototypical starburst galaxy," noted Bolatto. “With Webb’s size and resolution, we can look at this star-forming galaxy and see all of this beautiful new detail.”



Webb's NIRCam has proven crucial for observing areas like M82’s center, where layers of dust typically obscure the view in other wavelengths. The camera's ability to capture infrared light allows it to reveal the galaxy's core and its dynamic processes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messier-82-image">Messier 82 image </h2>



“This image shows the power of Webb. Every single white dot in this image is either a star or a star cluster. We can start to distinguish all of these tiny point sources, which enables us to acquire an accurate count of all the star clusters in this galaxy,” noted study co-author Rebecca Levy from the University of Arizona.



One of the NIRCam's innovative features is its mode that prevents bright sources from overwhelming the detector, which was particularly useful in studying the intensely active center of Messier 82.&nbsp;



In the image, dark brown tendrils of dust weave through the galaxy's glowing white core, interspersed with small green specks that represent concentrated areas of iron from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> remnants. Red patches highlight regions where molecular hydrogen is illuminated by the radiation from nearby young stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-galactic-winds">Insights into galactic winds</h2>



The study also focused on understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galactic wind</a>, driven by the rapid rate of star formation and subsequent supernovae, influences M82’s environment. 



The NIRCam images showed clumpy streams of gas, appearing in red, which extend above and below the galaxy's plane, marking the path of this wind rushing out from the starburst's core.



A key revelation came from the NIRCam’s tracing of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), sooty chemical molecules that map out the structure of the galactic wind. To the surprise of researchers, the PAH emissions closely resembled the patterns of the hot, ionized gas, suggesting a more complex interaction within the wind than previously understood.&nbsp;



"It was unexpected to see the PAH emission resemble ionised gas," said Bolatto. "PAHs are not supposed to live very long when exposed to such a strong radiation field, so perhaps they are being replenished all the time. It challenges our theories and shows us that further investigation is required."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-observations-of-messier-82">Future observations of Messier 82</h2>



The findings from Webb are just the beginning. The team plans to further analyze Messier 82 with additional data, including spectroscopic observations, to determine the ages of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and the duration of each star formation phase within the starburst environment.&nbsp;



These observations will also assist in a broader understanding of similar processes in early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>, which were common in the young universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study</h2>



Study co-author Torsten Böker of the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> emphasized the broader implications of these findings.&nbsp;



“With these amazing Webb images, and our upcoming spectra, we can study how exactly the strong winds and shock fronts from young stars and supernovae can remove the very gas and dust from which new stars are forming,” explained Böker.&nbsp;



“A detailed understanding of this ‘feedback’ cycle is important for theories of how the early universe evolved, because compact starbursts such as the one in M82 were very common at high redshift.”



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



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Messier 82: Unlocking the mysteries of star formation

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal features in the United States. Beneath those colorful hot springs and spewing geysers sits a volcanic system that has captured the attention of geologists for decades.



Recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> discuss how molten material may one day break the surface in a corner of this ancient hotspot. 



According to Ninfa Bennington of the U.S. Geological Survey (<a href="https://www.usgs.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USGS</a>), new instruments revealed four distinct magma bodies beneath Yellowstone, yet only the northeastern one appears poised for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-next-big-volcano-eruption-will-cause-global-chaos-climate-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">far-future activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-s-history-of-massive-eruptions">Yellowstone's history of massive eruptions</h2>



Researchers have long noted three massive eruptions in Yellowstone over roughly two million years. 



Those events left behind giant <a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/calderas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calderas</a>, which are vast volcanic depressions formed when large volumes of magma empty and cause the ground to collapse.



Such colossal blasts are uncommon, so experts analyze lingering heat and rock structures to understand how these systems evolve. Each caldera tells a different part of the story, offering clues about what lies below.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-magma-deep-underground">Tracking magma deep underground</h2>



Specialists use <a href="https://epic.earthscope.org/content/instrumentation/magnetotelluric-systems-epic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetotelluric instruments</a> to detect electrical signals that reveal melted rock under the surface. 



The devices measure conductivity, allowing scientists to map <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma zones</a> without drilling. This approach pinpoints subterranean areas where molten rock might accumulate.



"We find that rhyolitic melts are stored in segregated regions beneath the caldera," wrote Bennington, the study's lead author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northeastern-magma-body">Northeastern magma body</h2>



Among the identified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-and-trees-predict-volcano-eruptions-when-viewed-from-space-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> bodies, only the one in Yellowstone's northeast <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sector</a> is expected to retain enough heat to stay partially molten long-term. 



This discovery refines older ideas that suggested multiple areas could erupt in the distant future.



"We suggest that the locus of future <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/rhyolite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhyolitic volcanism</a> has shifted to northeast Yellowstone Caldera," noted Bennington. This statement pinpoints a new center of potential volcanic action in Yellowstone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-yellowstone-compares-to-others">How Yellowstone compares to others</h2>



Yellowstone isn't the only place on Earth with massive magma systems. In Indonesia, <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-a-supervolcano-what-a-supereruption" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supervolcano</a> Toba erupted about 74,000 years ago, leading to significant global impacts.



Scientists compare Yellowstone with Toba and other large volcanic fields to see how deeply buried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> behaves over time. 



Each site adds pieces to the broader puzzle of predicting when and how these forces might surface.



Forecasting eruptions is a complex challenge. Experts watch seismic tremors, ground changes, and chemical signals to catch early warnings of magma movement.



Groups like the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/yvo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone Volcano Observatory</a> share real-time updates to help the public stay informed. They typically see low-level unrest, which doesn't point to any immediate threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-eruption-fears-vs-facts">Yellowstone eruption: Fears vs. facts</h2>



Rumors about sudden cataclysms occasionally circulate. Geologists stress that supervolcano-scale eruptions require specific conditions that rarely align.



Communities near Yellowstone benefit from ongoing research that tracks small shifts in the system. This work helps reduce uncertainty and shows that colossal events happen on geological - not human - timelines.



Continued advances in imaging technology and field observations refine our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of underground processes</a>. 



By mapping details more precisely, researchers can spot temperature and pressure variations that might foreshadow bigger changes.



Experts emphasize that no single method gives a perfect forecast. Instead, multiple tools create a fuller view, improving how we interpret rumblings beneath our feet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-supervolcanoes-erupt">When supervolcanoes erupt</h2>



When a supervolcano erupts, it blasts huge amounts of ash, gas, and lava high into the atmosphere, which then spread across vast regions of the planet. 



This ash can disrupt daily life in many ways by affecting air quality, water supplies, and transportation, to name just a few.



On a global scale, the eruption <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-winters-weakened-the-dinosaurs-before-the-asteroid-hit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cools the Earth's climate</a> by blocking sunlight with thick layers of ash and sulfur dioxide. 



This cooling effect, sometimes called a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic winter</a>," can lead to shorter growing seasons and widespread crop failures, affecting food supplies around the world. 



The climate shifts and environmental stress might even trigger economic and social disruptions as governments and communities adapt to the new conditions.



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



Some wonder if the northeastern sector will pose a risk anytime soon. Most geologists say it's a far-off scenario measured in thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of years.



Still, pinpointing that region offers a step toward more focused hazard assessments. Future drilling or additional surveys may provide clues to how heat flows and magma shifts under Yellowstone's surface.



Each study enhances our understanding of how supervolcanoes work. Comparing data worldwide helps gauge the intervals between major eruptions, giving communities perspective on the pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geologic change</a>.



Investigations like these highlight how Earth remains active in places we least expect. This hidden energy feeds geysers and hot springs now, and might shape landscapes in ways we can only imagine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standing-on-a-sleeping-giant">Standing on a sleeping giant</h2>



Millions of visitors roam Yellowstone's trails every year, drawn by dramatic scenery and wildlife. Few realize they're walking above a deep reservoir that, while dormant, still holds potential power.



Researchers remain cautious about definitive forecasts but appreciate this deeper glimpse into where future volcanic eruptions could arise in Yellowstone. 



Lessons learned from this site might guide how we monitor volcanic regions across the globe.



Current measurements reinforce that no sudden explosion is expected soon. The findings merely shine light on the structure of the system and indicate that the northeastern sector might be the stage for the next chapter.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Yellowstone supervolcano study sparks new debate on where and when it will erupt

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal...

Jupiter’s moon Io has once again demonstrated why it holds the title of the most volcanically active body in the solar system. NASA’s Juno mission has detected an enormous volcanic hot spot in Io’s southern hemisphere, which has undergone an eruption unlike any seen before.



The feature, which is larger than Earth’s Lake Superior, releases energy equivalent to six times the total output of all power plants on Earth. 



The discovery was made possible by the Jovian Infrared Auroral Mapper (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia23594-junos-jiram-instrument/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JIRAM</a>), an instrument provided by the <a href="https://www.asi.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Italian Space Agency</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-io-s-biggest-volcanic-eruption">Io’s biggest volcanic eruption</h2>



Juno’s extended mission has allowed it to make multiple close flybys of Io, and capture data that continues to surprise scientists. 



The most recent observation, conducted from a greater distance, provided unexpected and extraordinary results.



“Juno had two really close flybys of Io during Juno’s extended mission. And while each flyby provided data on the tormented moon that exceeded our expectations, the data from this latest - and more distant - flyby really blew our minds," ,” said Scott Bolton of the <a href="https://www.swri.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southwest Research Institute</a>.



"This is the most powerful volcanic event ever recorded on the most volcanic world in our solar system - so that’s really saying something.”



Io, which is roughly the size of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-the-moon-looks-100-million-years-younger-than-its-true-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s Moon</a>, undergoes immense tidal stress due to its close orbit around Jupiter. The gravitational forces from the gas giant stretch and squeeze Io, which generates intense internal heat.



This process fuels its continuous volcanic activity, with the moon's more than 400 active volcanoes spewing lava and gas into space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-io-s-changing-landscape-observed-by-juno">Io’s changing landscape observed by Juno</h2>



Images taken by <a href="https://www.missionjuno.swri.edu/junocam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JunoCam</a> in 2024 highlight dramatic surface changes near Io’s south pole. These images, captured between Juno’s 66th and 68th closest approaches to Jupiter, provide clear evidence of Io’s ever-changing geological features.



The arrows in the images indicate newly formed volcanic deposits, suggesting that fresh eruptions reshaped the terrain within a short period.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Io_jupiter-moon_volcano-activity-hotspot_time-lapse_JunoCam_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Io_jupiter-moon_volcano-activity-hotspot_time-lapse_JunoCam_NASA_1s.webp" alt="Images of Io captured in 2024 by the JunoCam imager aboard NASA’s Juno show significant and visible surface changes (indicated by the arrows) near the Jovian moon’s south pole. These changes occurred between the 66th and 68th perijove, or the point during Juno’s orbit when it is closest to Jupiter. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS Image processing by Jason Perry" class="wp-image-1958315"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Images of Io captured in 2024 by the JunoCam imager aboard NASA’s Juno show significant and visible surface changes (indicated by the arrows) near the Jovian moon’s south pole. These changes occurred between the 66th and 68th perijove, or the point during Juno’s orbit when it is closest to Jupiter. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS Image processing by Jason Perry</figcaption></figure>



Juno’s JIRAM instrument was originally designed to study Jupiter’s atmosphere by detecting infrared light that emerges from deep within the planet’s weather layer.



Since the mission extension, JIRAM has also been used to investigate Jupiter’s largest moons, including Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. 



With each flyby, Juno gathers more data on these dynamic celestial bodies, revealing new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infrared-images-reveal-how-black-holes-affect-the-space-around-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insights</a> into their composition and activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-close-flybys-and-infrared-observations">Close flybys and infrared observations</h2>



Juno’s orbital trajectory brings it close to Io every other orbit, allowing repeated observations of the same regions. 



During previous flybys in December 2023 and February 2024, the spacecraft came within approximately 930 miles (1,500 kilometers) of Io’s surface.



The latest flyby, conducted on December 27, 2024, occurred from a greater distance of 46,200 miles (74,400 kilometers). 



Despite the increased distance, JIRAM successfully detected an intense volcanic eruption that surpassed all previous records.



The detection of this new hot spot represents one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lava-trails-captured-jupiters-volcanic-moon-io-new-images-shark-vis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant findings</a> of Juno’s mission. 



JIRAM’s ability to capture infrared light enabled scientists to observe the eruption’s thermal signature, and provide critical data about the intensity and scale of Io’s volcanic activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magma-chamber-beneath-io">Magma chamber beneath Io</h2>



“JIRAM detected an event of extreme infrared radiance - a massive hot spot - in Io’s southern hemisphere, so strong that it saturated our detector,” said Alessandro Mura from the <a href="http://www.inaf.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute for Astrophysics</a>.



“However, we have evidence what we detected is actually a few closely spaced hot spots that emitted at the same time, suggestive of a subsurface vast magma chamber system. The data supports that this is the most intense volcanic eruption ever recorded on Io.”



The estimated size of this feature is staggering; it spans 40,000 square miles (100,000 square kilometers).



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Io_jupiter-moon_volcano-activity-hotspot_Juno-JIRAM_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Io_jupiter-moon_volcano-activity-hotspot_Juno-JIRAM_NASA_1s.webp" alt="A massive hotspot — larger the Earth’s Lake Superior — can be seen just to the right of Io’s south pole in this annotated image taken by the JIRAM infrared imager aboard NASA’s Juno on Dec. 27, 2024, during the spacecraft’s flyby of the Jovian moon. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/ASI/INAF/JIRAM" class="wp-image-1958313"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A massive hotspot — larger the Earth’s Lake Superior — can be seen just to the right of Io’s south pole in this annotated image taken by the JIRAM infrared imager aboard NASA’s Juno on Dec. 27, 2024, during the spacecraft’s flyby of the Jovian moon. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/ASI/INAF/JIRAM</figcaption></figure>



This makes it the largest known volcanic hot spot on Io, surpassing even Loki Patera, which is a well-known lava lake that covers about 7,700 square miles (20,000 square kilometers). 



The total power output of the eruption exceeded 80 trillion watts, making it the most powerful volcanic event recorded on the Jovian moon.



The discovery suggests the presence of a vast subsurface magma system beneath Io’s crust. Scientists believe that multiple volcanic hot spots erupted simultaneously, and Juno’s observations indicate that magma movement deep inside <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Io</a> could be far more complex than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-io-s-surface-and-volcanic-signatures">Io's surface and volcanic signatures</h2>



JunoCam’s visible-light images provided further confirmation of the eruption’s impact. 



By comparing images from previous Io flybys with the latest ones from December 27, scientists identified noticeable changes in surface coloration around the newly discovered hot spot. 



While these images were taken from a greater distance and at lower resolution, the alterations in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/juno-reveals-the-hidden-forces-behind-jupiters-fiery-moon-io/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">landscape</a> were still evident.



Large volcanic eruptions on Io often leave lasting geological signatures. The moon’s surface is frequently reshaped by pyroclastic deposits, which consist of fragmented rock ejected by volcanic explosions. 



Other features include fissure-fed lava flows and volcanic-plume deposits that are rich in sulfur and sulfur dioxide. These elements contribute to the constantly evolving appearance of Io’s surface.



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



Juno’s upcoming distant flyby of Io on March 3 will provide another opportunity to study the new hot spot. 



Scientists plan to use this next observation to monitor any changes in the region and determine whether the eruption is still ongoing.



Earth-based telescopes may also contribute additional data by capturing images of Io’s active volcanic zones.



“While it is always great to witness events that rewrite the record books, this new hot spot can potentially do much more,” said Bolton. “The intriguing feature could improve our understanding of volcanism not only on Io but on other worlds as well.”



The findings from Juno’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-io-has-a-huge-new-volcano/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest observations</a> could provide insights into volcanic activity beyond the solar system. 



Understanding Io’s volcanic processes may help scientists interpret similar geological phenomena on exoplanets and other celestial bodies.



With future missions to Jupiter’s moons planned, including the European Space Agency’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (<a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JUICE</a>) and NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/europa-clipper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa Clipper</a>, continued exploration of these dynamic worlds will likely uncover even more surprises.



Information for this article came from a NASA <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/missions/juno/nasa-juno-mission-spots-most-powerful-volcanic-activity-on-io-to-date/">press release</a>.



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Volcanic eruption on Jupiter's moon Io released 6x more energy than all power plants on Earth

Jupiter’s moon Io has once again demonstrated why it holds...

Osiris-rex,Spacecraft,Collected,Samples,From,Asteroid,Bennu,101955,,And,Returned

Samples from asteroid Bennu have delivered remarkable insights into the origins of Earth’s water, the organic molecules that may have seeded life here and elsewhere, and the fundamental materials and building blocks of our planet and solar system. 



All of this was discovered in just 4 ounces of dust and rock, carefully gathered by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission in 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relics-of-the-early-solar-system-nbsp">Relics of the early solar system&nbsp;</h2>



Michelle Thompson, an associate professor of earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences at <a href="https://www.purdue.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University</a>, was among the first nine lead investigators on the OSIRIS-REx science team to examine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-bennu-holds-secrets-of-the-solar-systems-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bennu</a>’s samples.&nbsp;



Thompson and her colleagues had 72 hours to perform initial measurements and analyses, drawing on her expertise in how off-world bodies and their chemistry respond to space environments.&nbsp;



The discoveries shed light on how Earth and the solar system formed and whether life’s building blocks arrived via asteroids.



“Asteroids are relics of the early solar system,” Thompson said. “They’re like time capsules. We can use them to examine the origin of our solar system and to open a window to the origin of life on Earth.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bringing-bennu-sample-to-earth">Bringing Bennu sample to Earth</h2>



NASA’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/osiris-rex-safely-delivers-rock-samples-from-asteroid-bennu-back-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSIRIS-REx</a> is the agency’s first mission to retrieve samples from an asteroid and return them to Earth. 



The mission is focused on analyzing solar system building blocks and exploring resources that might enable future deep-space missions.&nbsp;



After more than a decade of planning and collaboration among hundreds of team members, OSIRIS-REx successfully returned 4.29 ounces (121.6 grams) of Bennu’s material - exceeding its goal of 60 grams.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-once-in-a-lifetime-experience">Once-in-a-lifetime experience</h2>



The asteroid samples provide scientists with a rare, pristine look at asteroid dust and rock unaltered by Earth’s atmosphere.



“This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime - maybe a once-in-several-lifetimes - experience,” Thompson said. “OSIRIS-REx was selected in 2011, the year I started graduate school, and launched in 2016, the year I finished my PhD.”&nbsp;



“It reached Bennu in 2018, the year I came to Purdue. And now I am one of the first humans to get to study it. Bennu is a treasure trove of information; this is literally the project of my career.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pristine-samples-from-asteroid-bennu-nbsp">Pristine samples from asteroid Bennu&nbsp;</h2>



Although pieces of asteroids sometimes land on Earth naturally as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-meteorites-can-be-traced-to-three-asteroid-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteorites</a>, the fiery journey through Earth’s atmosphere often damages or contaminates them.&nbsp;



By bringing Bennu’s samples home inside a protective capsule, scientists can examine them in a virtually unaltered state. 



This clarity allows for more precise evaluations of organic compounds, isotopes, and minerals that could explain the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-origins-of-water-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origins of water</a> on Earth and the formation of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-molecules-in-bennu-samples">Organic molecules in Bennu samples</h2>



Bennu is a carbonaceous asteroid, rich in carbon and other elements crucial to life’s chemistry. The Bennu samples reveal key details about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-molecules-found-throughout-the-universe-hint-that-life-began-in-deep-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organic molecules</a> that are essential to life’s development.



“Looking at the organic molecules from Bennu, we are getting an understanding of what kinds of molecules could have seeded life on early Earth,” Thompson noted. 



“We won’t find life itself, but we’re looking at the building blocks that could have eventually evolved into life.”



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="KNaqn8jEPp-4282904-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ammonia-is-crucial-for-life">Ammonia is crucial for life</h2>



Scientists found incredibly large amounts of ammonia in the Bennu samples. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-green-tech-ammonia-fertilizer-production-using-earths-natural-forces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ammonia</a> is important for life because it can combine with formaldehyde, which was also found in the samples, to create complex molecules like amino acids when the conditions are right. 



When amino acids join together into long chains, they form proteins, which are essential for almost every function in living things.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bennu-comes-from-a-water-planet">Bennu comes from a water planet</h2>



The presence of elements like phosphate, sulfate, and other salt minerals in Bennu’s dust points to an environment conducive to forming vital biomolecules.&nbsp;



“Together with our international partner teams, we have been able to detect a large proportion of the minerals that are formed when salty, liquid water - known as brine - evaporates more and more and the minerals are precipitated in the order of their solubility,” explains Dr. Sheri Singerling, who manages the Schwiete Cosmo Lab.



Professor Frank Brenker of <a href="https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goethe University Frankfurt</a> noted that other teams have found various precursors of biomolecules such as numerous amino acids in the Bennu samples.



“This means that Bennu’s parent body had some known building blocks for biomolecules, water and - at least for a certain time - energy to keep the water liquid," explained Professor Brenker.



Similar brines have been detected or suggested across the solar system, including at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-on-the-dwarf-planet-ceres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dwarf planet Ceres</a> and Saturn’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-could-survive-near-surface-europa-enceladus-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon Enceladus</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-earth-s-water">Mystery of Earth's water</h2>



The samples also had traces of minerals containing water. Understanding how asteroids can deliver these resources offers vital context about how Earth’s water might have arrived.&nbsp;



“The scientific community doesn’t have a definitive understanding of how Earth got all its water,” Thompson said.&nbsp;



“Looking at how much water is part of these minerals in the samples from Bennu gives us a clue about how much water was out in the solar system when the planets were forming.”



“How much material was available that could have been delivered through impacts - not just organic material, but water and minerals as well.”



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



Scientists around the world are now parsing the Bennu samples to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-origins-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deepen our knowledge</a> of planetary science.



The experts are analyzing mineral content, studying stable isotopes for clues about the solar system’s formation, and testing hypotheses about how organic compounds travel between celestial bodies.&nbsp;



The final goal is to piece together a clearer picture of how life-supporting environments arise and persist. Although the newly returned samples measure just a few ounces, their significance is immense.



Panspermia suggests that life, or the essential building blocks of life, could be distributed throughout the universe via meteoroids, asteroids, comets, or even space dust.



Is that what happened here on Earth? Is humanity the ultimate result of an asteroid colliding with our planet billions of years ago?



By continuing to analyze this pristine material from asteroid Bennu, we may just learn the answer to that question sooner rather than later.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center 



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Ingredients of life from an unknown water world found in asteroid Bennu dust sample

Samples from asteroid Bennu have delivered remarkable insights into the...

In the morning hours of October 3, the serene South Lhonak Lake transformed into an agent of destruction. What followed was a catastrophic flood disaster that would leave an indelible mark on India's Sikkim region, claiming dozens of lives and reshaping the landscape of the Teesta River valley.



In a recent study, experts have pieced together the dramatic sequence of events during this disaster. 



The research was led by Dr. Ashim Sattar of the <a href="https://www.iitbbs.ac.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indian Institute of Technology</a> in Bhubaneswar and Dr. Christian Huggel from the University of Zurich's <a href="https://www.geo.uzh.ch/en/units/eclim.html#:~:text=We%20investigate%20risks%2C%20impacts%20and,systems%20respond%20to%20climate%20change." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environment and Climate</a> research group.



The findings paint a sobering picture of the escalating impact of climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flood-fatalities-experts-reveal-the-hidden-health-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountain communities</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-flood-disaster">Impacts of the flood disaster</h2>



On October 3, 2023, a sudden and catastrophic event <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">triggered the flood</a>. Approximately 14.7 million cubic meters of frozen moraine collapsed into South Lhonak Lake. 



This collapse caused a massive wave, similar to a tsunami, that reached up to 20 meters in height. The force of this wave breached the moraine, allowing nearly 50 million cubic meters of water to escape. 



This volume is equivalent to filling 20,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools, demonstrating the sheer scale of the disaster.



As the water surged downstream, it carved through the 385-kilometer-long valley, causing unprecedented destruction. Sediment, estimated at around 270 million cubic meters, was displaced along the river's course. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability-of-high-mountain-communities">Vulnerability of high mountain communities </h2>



Roads, bridges, and hydroelectric power plants on the Teesta River were washed away, cutting off communities and crippling local economies. The impact extended beyond infrastructure, affecting ecosystems and farmlands that depended on stable water sources.



At least 55 people lost their lives in the disaster, while another 70 were reported missing. The suddenness of the event left little time for evacuation, increasing the human toll. Survivors faced immediate hardships as homes, livelihoods, and access to essential resources were swept away.



“This event is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of high mountain regions to the effects of climate change,” said Dr. Huggel. "The thawing of permafrost and the instability of rock, ice, and moraine structures pose major risks.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-flood-disaster">Understanding the flood disaster</h2>



To analyze the flood’s impact, the researchers relied on advanced scientific methods. High-resolution satellite images captured the affected regions before and after the event, allowing scientists to compare structural changes in the landscape. 



Digital elevation models helped reconstruct the terrain’s shifting contours, offering insights into how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasting-the-floods-new-clues-about-extreme-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floodwaters</a> moved through the valley.



Seismic data played a crucial role in pinpointing the exact moment of the moraine collapse. The tremors generated by the falling ice and debris provided a time marker for the sequence of events. 



Geomorphological studies further determined the volume of water and sediment released, helping scientists understand the flood’s full magnitude.



By integrating satellite technology and physical modeling, the researchers created a detailed picture of the disaster’s progression. These insights are invaluable for predicting similar events in other glacial regions, where climate change continues to threaten landscape stability.



“The use of high-resolution remote sensing data was crucial to understanding the complex processes and cascading effects of the flood in detail,” noted Dr. Sattar. "Collaboration among researchers from different disciplines was key in gaging the full extent of this event.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-early-warning-systems">Need for early warning systems</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-increases-as-a-direct-result-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flood</a> not only destroyed critical infrastructure but also caused extensive environmental damage. 



Sedimentation and erosion altered the course of the Teesta River, affecting farmlands and water supplies. Communities that relied on stable river conditions for agriculture and fisheries faced major disruptions.



The study highlights an urgent need for early warning systems. The researchers found that the moraine had shown signs of instability for years before the collapse.



Satellite observations recorded shifts of up to 15 meters per year, indicating gradual weakening of the structure. If these warning signs had been monitored closely, preventive measures might have reduced the impact.



“Our findings highlight the urgent need for early warning systems and international cooperation to address such challenges,” said Dr. Sattar. 



Scientists advocate for a network of real-time monitoring stations that track glacial lake conditions and provide alerts when risks increase.



Such systems would allow authorities to issue timely warnings, giving local communities a chance to evacuate or reinforce protective barriers before a disastrous flood strikes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-plays-a-major-role">Climate change plays a major role</h2>



The researchers warn that similar flood disasters are likely to become more common as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-fear-climate-change-will-end-the-world-during-their-lifetime/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures rise</a>. Melting glaciers contribute to the expansion of glacial lakes, increasing the risk of outburst floods. 



High-altitude regions, already vulnerable to extreme weather, will face growing challenges in managing these threats.



“The case of South Lhonak Lake is a reminder to take climate risks in mountain regions worldwide more seriously,” said Dr. Huggel.



Rising temperatures weaken the stability of ice, rock, and moraine structures, making high-altitude environments increasingly unpredictable. The consequences extend beyond localized floods, as sediment displacement and altered river courses impact larger ecological systems.



“We need better risk modeling and assessment, as well as robust adaptation strategies, to minimize future disasters,” said Dr. Sattar.



Scientists emphasize the importance of integrating climate projections into risk assessments. More accurate models will help policymakers develop targeted strategies to reduce vulnerabilities in glacial regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-regulation-and-preparedness">Strengthening regulation and preparedness</h2>



The research team calls for stricter regulation of hydropower development in high-risk areas. 



Many of the destroyed hydroelectric plants had been built in locations susceptible to floods and landslides. Strengthening oversight in infrastructure planning could prevent future losses and improve resilience.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Improved monitoring</a> of glacial lakes is another key recommendation. By using satellite imagery, drones, and ground-based sensors, scientists can track changes in lake size, moraine stability, and surrounding permafrost conditions. 



Regular assessments would allow authorities to take preemptive action when warning signs appear. 



Early warning systems must be integrated with disaster response plans. Communities in high-altitude regions need access to evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and rapid communication networks. Governments and international agencies must collaborate to provide funding and expertise for these initiatives.



The study provides valuable insights that could help mountain communities prepare for the challenges of climate change. With better risk assessment, stronger regulations, and proactive disaster response strategies, the impact of future floods can be minimized. 



Scientists stress the need for immediate action, as delaying preventive measures could lead to more catastrophic events in the years ahead.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ads2659" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Climate change is directly linked to flood disasters in mountain communities

In the morning hours of October 3, the serene South...

Many parents have observed their children struggling with fundamental reading and math skills in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These concerns are now backed by alarming national test scores, highlighting the impact of the past few years on student <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-is-harming-kids-memory-and-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>.



<a href="https://nces.ed.gov/whatsnew/commissioner/index.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peggy Carr</a>, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics (<a href="https://nces.ed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCES</a>), has been studying these declines closely. She pointed to remote schooling and widespread disruptions as factors that continue to influence classroom performance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-joy-for-reading-is-declining">Joy for reading is declining</h2>



Recent <a href="https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">assessments</a> show that fourth graders experienced an average drop in reading scores from 220 to 215. 



This shift is a sign that pandemic-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddlers-learn-faster-after-witnessing-impossible-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">challenges</a> did not remain a short-term event but lingered, leading to long-term effects on foundational language abilities.



“Student joy for reading is declining. We know that teachers are not asking as much for essay responses to questions,” said Carr. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steep-decline-in-math-scores">Steep decline in math scores</h2>



Eighth graders have experienced an even steeper decline in math scores, dropping an average of eight points compared to previous years. 



The impact is especially pronounced among lower-performing students, and many teachers report needing to provide remedial lessons just to bring students up to speed.



Fourth-grade math scores dropped by 3 points, though higher-performing students in eighth grade are showing small gains compared to last year.



This unusual split has created the biggest gap ever observed between those who score at the top and those at the bottom, according to the analyses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-states-are-seeing-improvements">Some states are seeing improvements </h2>



On the bright side, fourth graders in Alabama posted higher math scores than before the pandemic, and counterparts in Louisiana surpassed old reading marks.



These outcomes highlight that local policies and classroom <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boredom-can-make-children-more-creative-and-teach-new-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strategies</a> might be making a difference in certain places.



Education officials are studying these state-level successes to figure out what sets these programs apart. Some specialists suspect an emphasis on simpler, consistent teaching approaches may help students regain their footing in key subjects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-gaps-in-math-and-reading">Learning gaps in math and reading</h2>



For many families, pandemic schooling was a massive shift that involved virtual platforms, less class time, and fewer group discussions. 



Students in households with limited internet resources had an even harder adjustment, which might have widened existing academic gaps.



According to a <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3102/0013189X20965918" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> on pandemic closures, lost instructional time caused significant skill deficits, especially among younger students who need direct support to grasp early reading and math concepts. 



Shorter lessons and fewer chances to practice new skills consistently contributed to the loss of momentum.



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



The new data shows that children who are regularly absent are more vulnerable to falling behind. Students who miss school often struggle to keep up because they lose critical exposure to classroom activities and teacher feedback.



Schools are trying to address this by emphasizing consistent attendance and seeking more engaging lesson plans. 



Educators see these steps as part of the solution for rekindling interest in both reading and math, even though it may take time for big <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memes-help-students-learn-better-and-boost-engagement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improvements</a> to appear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-resources-and-support">Rethinking resources and support</h2>



Access to libraries and reading materials outside of school hours can make a difference, particularly for those who lack them at home.



Some districts are providing extra help after classes, summer catch-up programs, or small-group tutoring to ensure that students receive focused instruction.



Officials are also pushing for better teacher training in reading instruction and strategies for math mastery. They argue that when teachers feel more confident guiding students, learners will benefit from clearer explanations and consistent practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confronting-post-pandemic-stress">Confronting post-pandemic stress</h2>



Academic performance is not the only concern. Children are dealing with emotional and mental hurdles that come from the last few years of unpredictability. 



This stress can reduce their motivation to pick up a book or tackle math equations if they feel overwhelmed.



Experts say schools should offer counseling or mindfulness sessions to help kids regain a sense of balance. Even small steps toward emotional stability may lead to bigger gains in the classroom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collective-effort-and-support">Collective effort and support</h2>



Carr described the latest results as sobering, yet educators continue to encourage families to stay hopeful and engaged in their children’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>.



Many teachers are trying innovative solutions to spark curiosity in reading, including interactive lessons and classroom activities that focus on comprehension.



Some communities are organizing volunteer-based math programs where high school students help younger peers with problems. Early signs of success suggest that a dedicated and collective effort has great potential.



The results are published in the <a href="https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Assessment of Educational Progress Report Card</a>.



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Students struggle in basic math and reading after pandemic

Many parents have observed their children struggling with fundamental reading...

Predicting and mitigating the effects of climate change while preserving biodiversity is a top priority for both scientists and policymakers. As climate change intensifies, leading to more frequent and severe droughts, understanding the impact on plant ecosystems has become increasingly important. 



One of the main challenges is forecasting changes in species richness due to shifts in precipitation patterns. 



While it’s established that regions with more water generally support greater plant diversity, results vary at smaller plot levels concerning how rainfall affects species richness.



To improve predictions, it’s essential to explore the underlying mechanisms - particularly how intense droughts and long-term rainfall changes impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-talks-on-the-drought-crisis-end-without-agreement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>.



A new study shows that increased aridity at the plot level is indeed linked to a decrease in plant species richness, and this connection is even more pronounced following extreme droughts. 



However, this phenomenon is not easy to detect because in the absence of drought, dominant plant species can obscure this effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainfall-drought-and-plant-diversity">Rainfall, drought, and plant diversity</h2>



Experts at the <a href="https://ecolres.hun-ren.hu/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HUN-REN Centre for Ecological Research</a> in Hungary examined the intricate connections between long-term changes in rainfall, extreme drought conditions, the biomass of dominant plant species, and plant species diversity in a dryland ecosystem.



The research reveals that increased dryness leads to a reduction in plant species diversity in drylands and uncovers the mechanisms through which rising aridity contributes to biodiversity loss in these fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-now-the-driving-force-behind-droughts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.



Using data from a seven-year climate change field experiment, the researchers conducted a path analysis to examine how precipitation influences species diversity, both directly and indirectly. 



The experiment simulated an extreme drought event followed by long-term variations in summer rainfall with the use of rainout shelters.



Initial analysis showed a strong positive relationship between rainfall and species diversity after extreme drought treatment, but this effect was absent without drought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dominant-plant-species-and-droughts">Dominant plant species and droughts</h2>



Interestingly, the path analysis uncovered another layer. In the absence of drought, increased rainfall boosted the biomass of dominant grass species, leading to a decrease in overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megadroughts-are-becoming-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant diversity</a>.



Nevertheless, the direct effect of rainfall remained positive, enhancing species richness even when dominant species exerted a suppressive impact. Additionally, the study revealed that past extreme droughts strengthened the link between rainfall and species diversity. 



“Droughts weaken dominant species, creating opportunities for other plants to thrive, potentially altering the plant community,” explained study lead author Dr. Gábor Ónodi.



The findings highlight the complex interactions between rainfall, dominant species, and biodiversity. 



The research shows that while rainfall can boost plant diversity, its benefits are often mediated by the presence of dominant species that can suppress others.



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



The findings have significant implications for predicting how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-persistent-droughts-will-impact-wildlife-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural ecosystems</a> will respond to future climate change.



“As global temperatures rise and precipitation patterns become more extreme, ecosystems may become increasingly sensitive to changes in water availability,” noted Dr. György Kröel-Dulay, the lead researcher.



The study highlights the importance of considering both direct and indirect effects when evaluating the impact of climate change on biodiversity.



“By deepening our understanding of these dynamics, we can better anticipate upcoming challenges and develop more effective strategies for conserving biodiversity in a world facing growing environmental uncertainties,” said senior author Dr. Zoltán Botta-Dukát.



This research serves as a valuable step toward understanding how ecosystems might adapt to changing climates and what measures can be taken to protect their rich diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-with-conservation-efforts">Moving forward with conservation efforts</h2>



The insights gained from this study provide a clearer picture of how climate change affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, particularly in dryland ecosystems. 



By examining the interplay between rainfall, drought, and dominant plant species, scientists can begin to identify patterns that may help predict future ecological shifts. Such knowledge is crucial for developing strategies to safeguard biodiversity as global climates continue to evolve.



The work of the HUN-REN Centre for Ecological Research highlights the need for continued investigation into the complex relationships within ecosystems. 



As the planet faces increasing environmental uncertainties, studies like this offer hope for finding ways to preserve the natural world for future generations.



The study is published in the <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2745.14483" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Ecology</a>. 



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Plant diversity threatened by reduced rainfall and drought

Predicting and mitigating the effects of climate change while preserving...

In India, tigers have not only survived but made a remarkable comeback through conservation efforts. Despite the challenges posed by a growing population and shrinking habitats, the number of wild tigers is on the rise.



This success story is rooted in a mix of ecological restoration, economic strategies, and political stability. Equally significant is the deep cultural reverence for tigers that has allowed humans and predators to coexist peacefully.



Protecting an endangered species like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-tiger-day-worldwide-support-for-tiger-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiger</a>, which can pose a threat to humans, is no easy task. Yet, India has managed to strike a balance. 



By combining protected reserves with shared landscapes where tigers and people live side by side, the country has achieved a 30% increase in its tiger population over the past two decades.



A recent study reveals that India now hosts around 3,700 tigers, making up 75% of the world’s wild tiger population. This proves that even in densely populated regions, it is possible to safeguard large carnivores.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-approach-to-tiger-conservation">Dual approach to tiger conservation</h2>



India’s tiger conservation strategy blends two distinct approaches: strictly protected reserves and multi-use landscapes where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-captive-tigers-help-restore-wild-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tigers</a> and humans share space. This dual model benefits both wildlife and local communities.



“The advantage of combining these two methods is that reserves act as a source of tigers for surrounding areas. And if coexistence no longer works, the reserves provide a fallback option - ensuring that tigers are not at risk of extinction,” explained study co-author Professor Ninad Mungi of <a href="https://international.au.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>.



Today, 45% of India’s tiger-inhabited landscapes are shared with approximately 60 million people. This unique arrangement highlights the importance of finding harmony between human needs and wildlife preservation.



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



Researchers emphasize that human population density alone does not determine whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiger-numbers-have-jumped-by-250-in-thailand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tigers</a> can thrive. 



Instead, factors such as lifestyle, economic conditions, and cultural attitudes play a crucial role. In relatively prosperous regions, ecotourism and government compensation schemes help generate income, increasing tolerance for tigers. 



For instance, when farmers lose cattle to tigers, they receive financial compensation from the government. This turns a potential loss into a gain, encouraging acceptance of the predators.



The study also identifies specific conservation conditions that support thriving tiger populations: proximity to reserves, abundant prey, suitable habitats, and moderate economic prosperity. 



These elements create an environment where both humans and tigers can flourish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-conflict-affected-areas">Challenges in conflict-affected areas</h2>



However, not all regions are equally conducive to tiger conservation. In rural areas plagued by extreme poverty, many people depend on forests for food, firewood, and other resources.



“In the past, foraging in the forest was sustainable. But now, with more people and less space for tigers, conflicts are increasing,” said Mungi.



Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tigers</a> are scarce in areas affected by armed conflict. Nearly half of the regions where tigers have disappeared are in districts impacted by the Naxal conflict. When governance weakens due to conflict, poaching and habitat destruction become major threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-attacks-and-safety-nets">Rare attacks and safety nets</h2>



Despite their fearsome reputation, tigers rarely attack humans. On average, about 100 people are killed by tigers each year in India. If such an incident occurs, the government provides financial compensation to the victim’s family.



Moreover, if a tiger develops a habit of attacking humans, it is captured and relocated to a reserve or zoo. These measures ensure that both human safety and tiger conservation are prioritized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-tiger-conservation">Lessons for tiger conservation</h2>



India’s conservation model offers valuable lessons for other countries facing similar challenges. 



In Europe, for example, wolves attacking livestock have sparked debates about balancing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-using-technology-to-protect-our-natural-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife protection</a> with human interests. India’s experience may inspire new strategies that safeguard both predators and farmers’ livelihoods.



According to Mungi, there are parallels between India and Europe when it comes to conserving large carnivores.



“In both India and Europe, protected areas are small − only 200-300 km² − and only a small fraction is strictly off-limits to humans. The debate in Europe and North America has been whether to focus solely on protected areas reserved for wildlife," said Mungi.



"It is critical to have such inviolate areas, where large carnivores are insulated from any human control. But a significant gain can be achieved by going an extra mile and fostering a culture of coexistence beyond protected areas. India offers an alternative by integrating shared landscapes."



“There are, of course, cultural challenges, but culture can change over time. India’s experience proves that large predators can survive in a modern world - if we are willing to think creatively and find a balance between protection and coexistence,” Mungi adds.



India’s success with tiger conservation shows that coexistence is not only possible but also beneficial for both humans and wildlife. By embracing innovative solutions and respecting cultural values, other nations can learn from this inspiring example.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk4827" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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India’s wild tigers are thriving with smart conservation efforts

In India, tigers have not only survived but made a...

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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

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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...

They needed to give him a name.
They all agreed on “Tucson Prime”. Mariano felt giddy as he rushed to his computer and printed Tucson his very own employee badge! But the story gets even better!

Employee Badge