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 areas of the Jazmurian Basin receive less than four inches of rain annually, on average, and evaporation rates are high. During wet times, however, parts of the basin may be covered by an intermittent lake, marshland, or other vegetation. 



“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. 



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>



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. 



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-nbsp">Dust in the Jazmurian Basin&nbsp;</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 climate conditions, including prolonged droughts and desertification, further intensify the frequency and severity of dust storms in the region. 



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



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. 



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 and serves as a critical habitat for certain desert-adapted wildlife. 



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 NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located around 35 million light-years away in the southern constellation Reticulum. The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope. 



"The data featured in this portrait make use of two of Webb’s instruments: the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) and Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam)," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Here MIRI captures the glow of interstellar dust grains, which trace out the interstellar medium, the fuel for future star formation. NIRCam shows the light from stars, even young stars hidden behind prodigious amounts of dust. NIRCam also captures emission from ionized nebulae around young stars."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-reveals-galaxies-in-new-light">Webb reveals galaxies in new light</h2>



According to ESA, the data was collected by the <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/phangs/home">PHANGS team</a> as part of a program in which Webb will observe 55 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a> that have also been mapped by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) radio telescope, the Hubble Space Telescope, and more.&nbsp;



"By combining Webb’s unprecedented view of the dust and stars with data from these other facilities, the team aims to obtain a new, highly detailed view of how stars are born, live, and die in galaxies across the Universe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-1559-a-loner-in-space">NGC 1559: A loner in space</h2>



Although NGC 1559 appears to sit close to one of our nearest neighbors in the sky - the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) - this is just a trick of perspective, noted ESA.



While it is part of the Reticulum constellation, NGC 1559 is not part of the Local Group of galaxies but instead resides in a more distant region of space.



"In reality, NGC 1559 is physically nowhere near the LMC in space; in fact it truly is a loner, lacking the company of any nearby galaxies or membership of any galaxy cluster."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1559">Star formation in NGC 1559</h2>



NGC 1559 is notable for its active star formation and strong magnetic fields. It has also been the site of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, making it of particular interest to astronomers who study stellar evolution and the life cycle of stars.



The structure of NGC 1559 includes well-defined spiral arms that contain young, hot stars and regions of ionized gas, indicative of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-extragalactic-wonder">An extragalactic wonder</h2>



Despite being relatively small compared to larger galaxies like the Milky Way, NGC 1559 is an important object for understanding how barred spiral galaxies evolve and the processes that trigger supernovae.



The galaxy’s remote location and active nature make it a fascinating subject of study in the field of extragalactic astronomy. 



The isolation of NGC 1559 allows for a clearer view of its structure without much interference from neighboring galaxies.



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



Barred spiral galaxies are a type of spiral galaxy characterized by a central bar-shaped structure composed of stars. This bar extends out from the core and connects to the galaxy's spiral arms, which swirl outward in a graceful pattern.



Scientists believe that the bar plays a crucial role in the evolution of the galaxy, funneling gas towards the core and potentially triggering star formation or feeding a central black hole. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our own galaxy, is an example of a barred spiral. These galaxies are quite common in the universe, making up about two-thirds of all observed spiral galaxies.



The bar itself is thought to be a temporary feature, developing as the galaxy matures and possibly disappearing over time as the dynamics of the stars change. 



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



The Reticulum constellation is a small, faint constellation in the southern sky. Its name means "the reticle" in Latin, which refers to the crosshairs in an eyepiece of a telescope. 



The constellation was named in the 18th century by the French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille to honor the reticle he used in his scientific instruments. It is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, A. Leroy, J. Lee and the PHANGS Team



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Glowing spiral galaxy in the constellation Reticulum

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Ksudach: A volcano shaped by explosive forces

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features UGC 5460, a spiral galaxy that is located about 60 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major.&nbsp;



“This image combines four different wavelengths of light to reveal UGC 5460’s central bar of stars, winding spiral arms and bright blue star clusters. Also captured in the upper left-hand corner of this image is a far closer object: a star just 577 light-years away in our own galaxy,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“UGC 5460 has hosted two recent supernovae named SN 2011ht and SN 2015as. It’s because of these two stellar explosions that Hubble targeted this galaxy, collecting data for three observing programmes that aim to study various kinds of supernovae.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-core-collapse-supernova-nbsp">A core-collapse supernova&nbsp;</h2>



SN 2015as is an example of a core-collapse supernova. This type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> occurs when the core of a massive star - typically with more than 8 times the mass of the sun - can no longer support its own gravity after exhausting its nuclear fuel. 



This causes the core to collapse under its own weight, leading to an extremely violent explosion. The collapse triggers the release of an enormous amount of energy, expelling the outer layers of the star into space.



In the aftermath of the explosion, a dense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shockingly-bright-carbon-monoxide-detected-in-supernova-remnant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remnant</a> is created. This is often a neutron star or black hole, depending on the mass of the original star. Core-collapse supernovae are some of the most powerful events in the universe.



According to ESA, Hubble observations of SN 2015as will help researchers understand what happens when the expanding shockwave of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-dandelion-year-1181-leaves-behind-zombie-star-defying-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> collides with the gas that surrounds the exploded star.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-stars-with-large-eruptions-nbsp">Rare stars with large eruptions&nbsp;</h2>



“SN 2011ht might have been a core-collapse supernova as well, but it could also be an impostor called a luminous blue variable. Luminous blue variables are rare stars that experience eruptions so large that they can mimic supernovae,” noted ESA.



“Crucially, luminous blue variables emerge from these eruptions unscathed, while stars that go supernova do not. Hubble will search for a stellar survivor at SN 2011ht’s location, and the explosion’s identity may be revealed at last.”



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



Spiral galaxies are some of the most recognizable and beautiful structures in the universe. They are known for their distinctive arms that spiral outward from a central bulge.&nbsp;



These galaxies are typically composed of stars, gas, dust, and dark matter. The arms are often sites of intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fluffy-molecular-clouds-may-change-our-understanding-of-star-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>, where clouds of gas collapse to form new stars. 



In the center of a spiral galaxy lies a dense concentration of older stars and, often, a supermassive black hole.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure-of-a-spiral-galaxy-nbsp">Structure of a spiral galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



The structure of a spiral galaxy is generally divided into three main components: the disk, the bulge, and the halo.&nbsp;



The disk is where the spiral arms are located and contains most of the galaxy's visible stars and interstellar medium.&nbsp;



The bulge is a tightly packed region of older stars at the core, and the halo consists of a sparse collection of stars and globular clusters that surround the galaxy.&nbsp;



Spiral galaxies can be classified into different types based on the tightness and number of their spiral arms, as well as the size of their central bulge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-milky-way-galaxy">The Milky Way galaxy</h2>



Our solar system is located within a large spiral galaxy known as the Milky Way. The name refers to its appearance as a dim, milky band of light stretching across the night sky.&nbsp;



The term "Milky Way" comes from ancient Greek mythology, where it was associated the goddess Hera's milk spilling into the sky. In Greek, it was called "Galaxias Kyklos," meaning "milky circle."&nbsp;



Spanning about 100,000 light-years in diameter, the Milky Way is composed of stars, gas, dust, and dark matter. The galaxy has a distinct disk shape with spiral arms that wind outward from a central bulge, which houses a supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-black-hole-unleashes-mysterious-flares/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a>. 



Our sun is located in one of the spiral arms - known as the Orion Arm - positioned roughly halfway from the center to the outer edge.&nbsp;



The Milky Way is part of a small group of galaxies called the Local Group, which includes the Andromeda Galaxy and several smaller galaxies.



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Hubble views a spiral galaxy with stellar explosions

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral galaxy NGC 2566, which is located 76 million light-years away in the constellation Puppis. The image was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



“A prominent bar of stars stretches across the center of this galaxy, and spiral arms emerge from each end of the bar. Because NGC 2566 appears tilted from our perspective, its disk takes on an almond shape, giving the galaxy the appearance of a cosmic eye,” said <a href="https://phys.org/news/2024-12-hubble-spies-spiral-galaxy-ngc.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“As NGC 2566 appears to gaze at us, astronomers gaze right back, using Hubble to survey the galaxy's star clusters and star-forming regions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-appearance-of-ngc-2566">Complex appearance of NGC 2566</h2>



NGC 2566 lies at a considerable distance from Earth, making it a challenging object for amateur astronomers to observe in detail without powerful telescopes.&nbsp;



It can be seen in the Southern Hemisphere sky and is better observed from locations with minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-light-pollution-influences-interest-in-astronomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>.&nbsp;



The galaxy's arms are populated with young, bright stars, regions of active star formation, and interstellar gas and dust - giving it a dynamic and complex appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-ages-of-stars">Measuring the ages of stars</h2>



According to NASA, data from Hubble is especially valuable for studying stars that are just a few million years old. “These stars are bright at the ultraviolet and visible wavelengths to which Hubble is sensitive.”



“Using these data, researchers can measure the ages of NGC 2566's stars, which helps piece together the timeline of the galaxy's star formation and the exchange of gas between star-forming clouds and the stars themselves.”



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



Star formation in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> is a fascinating and complex process that unfolds over millions of years. It begins in vast clouds of gas and dust, known as molecular clouds, which are often found in the spiral arms of galaxies or in regions of irregular or starburst galaxies.&nbsp;



These clouds provide the raw material for star formation, consisting primarily of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of heavier elements.



As the molecular clouds collapse under their own gravity, regions within them begin to condense and fragment, forming dense clumps. Within these clumps, protostars emerge. Their formation is driven by the gravitational pull drawing in surrounding gas.&nbsp;



During this process, the gas heats up due to increasing pressure, eventually igniting nuclear fusion in the core, signaling the birth of a new star.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rate-of-star-formation-nbsp-across-galaxies">Rate of star formation&nbsp;across galaxies</h2>



The rate of star formation varies across galaxies is influenced by numerous factors. In spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, star formation is most active in the spiral arms, where density waves compress gas and dust, triggering the collapse of molecular clouds.&nbsp;



Elliptical galaxies, which often have little cold gas and dust, typically exhibit low rates of star formation or none at all.



Starburst galaxies, on the other hand, experience episodes of exceptionally high star formation, often triggered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-captures-a-galaxy-collision-with-a-radiant-smile/">galactic collisions</a> or interactions. 



These events can funnel large amounts of gas into central regions, leading to intense star-forming activity. However, such bursts are usually short-lived on cosmic timescales, exhausting the available gas quickly.



The environment within a galaxy also plays a significant role. Stellar winds and supernova explosions from existing stars can both inhibit and promote star formation. They may disperse gas, preventing further collapse, or compress nearby clouds, triggering new star formation.&nbsp;



Over time, as galaxies evolve, the availability of gas diminishes, leading to a gradual decline in star formation activity.



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



The Puppis constellation in the southern sky represents the stern of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation known as Argo Navis, which depicted the mythical ship of Jason and the Argonauts.&nbsp;



However, Argo Navis was later divided into three separate constellations: Puppis, Carina (the keel), and Vela (the sails). Puppis is the largest of these three and contains many notable celestial objects.



This constellation is home to several bright stars, including Naos (Zeta Puppis), a hot, massive star that emits intense ultraviolet radiation. Puppis also hosts a wide variety of deep-sky objects, such as open <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-star-clusters-captured-in-the-extreme-outskirts-of-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and nebulae.&nbsp;



Among these, Messier 46 and Messier 47 stand out. Both are beautiful star clusters that are visible through binoculars or small telescopes. The region is dense with stars because it lies along the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-collision-may-change-everything-we-know-about-our-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, making it a prime area for stargazing and astrophotography. 



Image Credit: NASA



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A cosmic eye in the Puppis constellation

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral...

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of retreating glaciers in Alaska, where meltwater is rapidly expanding glacial lakes. 



“In parts of Alaska, water is replacing ice. As glaciers thin and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-images-reveal-hidden-retreat-of-arctic-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retreat</a>, meltwater collects at their fronts, forming proglacial lakes. According to an analysis by Mauri Pelto, a glaciologist at Nichols College, three such lakes in the southeastern part of the state have grown rapidly in recent decades,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-glaciers-in-alaska">Retreating glaciers in Alaska</h2>



“A trio of glaciers - Yakutat, Alsek, and Grand Plateau - descend from inland mountains and flow onto the coastal plain southeast of Yakutat borough, ending at Harlequin Lake, Alsek Lake, and Grand Plateau Lake,” noted NASA.&nbsp;



The retreat of the glaciers, as well as the growth of the lakes, are visible in the image. When compared to an <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/153000/153638/fastestlake_tm5_19840705_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a> captured by Landsat 5 in the summer of 1984, the changes are even more evident.



NASA elaborated on the extent of the glacier retreat from 1984 to 2024. “During this period, Yakutat Glacier’s main arm retreated 4.3 miles, while Alsek Glacier’s northern and southern arms retreated 3.3 miles and 3.4 miles, respectively. Grand Plateau Glacier’s northern arm lost the most, retreating 4.8 miles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes-doubled-in-size-nbsp">Glacial lakes doubled in size&nbsp;</h2>



“Collectively, the three lakes more than doubled in size over 40 years. In 1984, they covered about 50 square miles. By 2024, they spanned 90 square miles. That’s an area larger than Seneca Lake (67 square miles) - one of the Finger Lakes in New York, which also have a glacial origin,” said NASA.



Pelto noted that the lakes forming in this region are immense - starting at the mountains and spreading toward the coast - making this a new lake district that is unique in our nation.



“Millions of other lakes, named and unnamed, dot the state. But this system has grown fast, so much so that Pelto thinks it might represent the fastest lake growth in the United States this century,” said NASA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-glacier-retreat-nbsp">Understanding glacier retreat&nbsp;</h2>



Glacier retreat is a significant phenomenon driven primarily by global warming the results from rising greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>.&nbsp;



As temperatures rise, glaciers lose more ice during the summer melt than they can regain in winter snowfall, causing them to shrink over time. This process has profound implications for ecosystems, water resources, and global sea levels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes">Glacial lakes</h3>



When glaciers retreat, they often leave behind depressions in the landscape that can fill with meltwater, forming glacial lakes. These lakes are typically bounded by natural dams made of rock, ice, or moraine - accumulations of debris left behind by the glacier's movement.&nbsp;



Over the past century, the number and size of glacial lakes worldwide have increased significantly due to the accelerating pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-glaciers-offer-a-glimpse-of-our-harsh-climate-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> retreat. This trend is especially evident in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Alps, as well as in polar areas such as Alaska and Greenland.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-and-negative-impacts-nbsp">Positive and negative impacts&nbsp;</h3>



Glacial lakes can have both positive and negative impacts. They provide critical water sources for downstream communities, support biodiversity, and sometimes offer opportunities for hydropower development or tourism.&nbsp;



However, they also pose serious risks. The dams holding back these lakes can fail suddenly, causing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). These catastrophic events can devastate downstream areas, destroying infrastructure, agricultural lands, and habitats while endangering human lives.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes">Monitoring changes</h3>



Understanding glacier retreat and glacial lake formation requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining climate science, hydrology, and geology.&nbsp;



Monitoring these changes is essential to mitigate associated risks and adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fperu-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming planet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-retreat-worldwide">Glacier retreat worldwide</h2>



Studies and satellite observations show that most glaciers in almost all regions of the world are shrinking.&nbsp;



Melting glaciers contribute significantly to global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>, which threatens coastal communities and ecosystems.



The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change.&nbsp;Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.



The image was captured on August 4, 2024 by the Landsat 8 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

This vibrant parrot has a royal blue head with a green and yellow collar, a green belly, and yellow thighs. Native to southern Australia, Rainbow lorikeets have also been introduced to Perth, Western Australia, Auckland, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.

Rainbow Lorikeet

Asteroid Dimorphos is a small space rock that orbits a larger companion. It gained attention when NASA investigated ways to alter its trajectory in case it ever threatened Earth.



The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (<a href="https://dart.jhuapl.edu/">DART</a>) hammered Dimorphos on September 26, 2022, marking a critical attempt to see if an oncoming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-impact-carved-massive-canyons-on-the-moon-in-minutes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threat</a> could be diverted. The success of this mission offered a glimpse into strategies that could be used to avert future dangers.



Scientists from <a href="https://www.polimi.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Politecnico di Milano</a> and the <a href="https://www.gatech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Institute of Technology</a> have recently analyzed the outcome of the DART mission. Their findings are published in two papers - one led by Professor Fabio Ferrari and the other coordinated by Professor Masatoshi Hirabayashi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-asteroid-deflection-test">NASA's asteroid deflection test</h2>



The test was an example of kinetic deflection, a method that uses a high-speed crash to change an asteroid’s path. The experts examined how momentum transfer occurs when a spacecraft strikes a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-asteroid-2024-yr4-has-a-chance-of-hitting-earth-in-2032/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">target</a>.



The collision threw out clouds of ejecta, an event that left behind scattered debris in space. The researchers could see how this ejected material took shape, thanks to observations from the Hubble Space Telescope.



“We used Hubble Space Telescope's images and numerical simulations to quantify a viable mechanism of the ejecta evolution and successfully estimated ejected particles' mass, velocity, and size," explained Professor Ferrari.



"We also found complex interactions of such particles with the asteroid system and solar radiation pressure, i.e., sunlight pushing ejecta particles."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-asteroid-shape-affects-deflection">How asteroid shape affects deflection</h2>



Curved surfaces direct momentum in different directions. This can reduce the overall push effect of the collision, and leave part of an asteroid’s spin or speed unchanged.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56010-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investigations</a> revealed how the curvature of Dimorphos could have altered the spray of material that resulted from the collision. If the surface is not flat, the debris scatters in unexpected ways.



“If the impact is large, more ejecta fly out of the surface but are more affected by surface tilts. This process makes the ejecta deviate from the ideal direction, reducing the asteroid push,” explained Professor Hirabayashi.



Scientists aim to gauge how shape, structure, and spin all interact. Any miscalculation could lead to a deflection that falls short.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-near-earth-objects">Strategies for near-Earth objects </h2>



The researchers explored the idea of using several lower-energy impactors, especially for near-Earth objects with uneven shapes. This approach can increase the odds of success if one shot misses the ideal spot.



Scientists emphasize that hypervelocity collisions might behave differently on an oddly shaped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-could-be-pushed-into-a-collision-course-with-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rock</a> than on a smooth surface. This difference can lower the efficiency of a single, high-powered strike.



Each mission needs careful preparation, including reconnaissance to help identify the best angles and times for deflection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-earth-from-asteroid-strikes">Protecting Earth from asteroid strikes</h2>



Some experts see these methods being used for other cosmic bodies. They point out that accurate data on shape and composition help refine any defense design.



Asteroid collisions are part of space’s natural cycle and have been occurring since the universe formed. Ancient craters on Earth and the Moon are relics of much bigger strike events that might happen again.



Experts note that what seems like a big crash may not always yield the desired change. Relying on one massive impact can come with risks if the body has unpredictable contours.



“Sending multiple smaller impactors not only results in a higher asteroid push but also potentially saves operational cost and increases tactical flexibility for deflection,” said Professor Hirabayashi. Careful testing is essential before rolling out these solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-dimorphos">Lessons from Dimorphos</h2>



Experts see a strong case for more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-ingredients-building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroid-bennu-dust-sample/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">missions</a> that study small bodies up close. Future spacecraft will likely gather details on topography and internal makeup before any deflection is attempted.



Lessons from Dimorphos will guide the planning of new solutions. These steps might determine how we react to unforeseen cosmic hazards in future.



Researchers continue building on the data from NASA’s test. Their aim is to ensure that Earth has a plan if a wandering rock ever sets its sights on us.



The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56010-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> are both published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/ncomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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What we learned from NASA's asteroid deflection test

Asteroid Dimorphos is a small space rock that orbits a...

Bigger creatures have long baffled scientists who study cancer. For decades, a widespread view called Peto’s paradox suggested that an animal’s size had no bearing on cancer risk. But now, a recent study is challenging that idea.



The researchers examined data from 263 species spanning amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles. They found a clear connection between bigger bodies and higher cancer rates, discrediting Peto’s paradox after 45-years.



The study was led by Professor Chris Venditti from the University of Reading, in collaboration with experts at University College London and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-size-affects-cancer-risk">Animal size affects cancer risk </h2>



it was previously believed that larger animals had somehow avoided the increased cancer risk associated with more cell divisions. However, this new research shows that size does matter when it comes to cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-cells-collaborate-to-survive-challenging-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">likelihood</a>.



“Everyone knows the myth that elephants are afraid of mice, but when it comes to cancer risk, mice are the ones who have less to fear," said Professor Venditti.



"We’ve shown that larger species like elephants do face higher cancer rates - exactly what you’d expect given they have so many more cells that could go wrong."



Past assumptions relied on limited samples and anecdotal observations. This broader dataset allowed scientists to see patterns that were previously overlooked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-rates-in-birds-and-reptiles">Cancer rates in birds and reptiles </h2>



Birds and reptiles can keep growing throughout their lives. This continuous growth made them valuable subjects for comparing cancer rates across distinct life cycles.



Larger birds, such as certain parrots, showed higher prevalence of tumors than smaller counterparts. Yet some outliers, like the <a href="https://www.bushheritage.org.au/species/budgerigars#:~:text=The%20Budgerigar%20is%20a%20colourful,weigh%2030%20to%2040%20grams." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common budgie</a> (Melopsittacus undulatus), had significantly higher rates than researchers had predicted.



Reptiles displayed a similar pattern, with bigger species experiencing more frequent malignancies. This consistency underlines the role of body size in shaping cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-cancer-cells-have-a-molecular-switch-that-could-be-rewired-to-behave-normally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerability</a> across different branches of the animal kingdom.



Advanced methods helped confirm these insights, offering a more precise look at how growth patterns connect to cancer risk. The researchers accounted for each species’ unique evolution, revealing unexpected similarities among distant groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-evolved-defenses-to-cancer">Elephants evolved defenses to cancer</h2>



Elephants stood out as a prime example of animals with ample body mass yet moderate tumor rates. To clarify this paradox, scientists point to tumor-suppressor genes that help keep cell growth under control.



Elephants share a cancer risk comparable to tigers, which are only a fraction of their size. The difference suggests that evolving larger bodies can go hand-in-hand with specialized protective mechanisms.



“When species needed to grow larger, they also evolved remarkable defenses against cancer. Elephants shouldn’t fear their size - they developed sophisticated biological tools to keep cancer in check,” said study co-author Dr. Joanna Baker.



Earlier assumptions missed this subtle adaptation. Now, experts see how evolution crafts various genetic safeguards that allow a massive animal to thrive without facing sky-high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumor rates</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-winners-and-losers">Unusual winners and losers</h2>



Some smaller species show unexpectedly high cancer rates, while others barely register the disease. 



The budgie’s elevated incidence highlights that size alone isn’t the only factor at play. The naked mole rat is famously resistant to tumors and appears to break the rules in the other direction. 



Experts hope that such biological oddities will expose fresh avenues for cancer research and interventions.



"Finding which animals are naturally better at fighting off cancer opens exciting new paths for research. By studying these successful species, we can better understand how cancers develop and potentially discover new ways to fight the disease,” said study lead author Dr. George Butler.



Scientists note that each anomaly teaches them about the intersection of environment, genetics, and disease. Pinpointing how certain species sidestep tumors might yield game-changing breakthroughs down the road.



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



Some large animals hold clues about keeping cancer in check despite massive cell counts. Comparing these biological tactics could suggest strategies to fortify human cancer defenses.



Medical researchers are intrigued by the possibility of applying elephant-like safeguards to human treatments. Understanding how extra tumor-suppressor genes function might spark more targeted therapies.



Similar logic applies to any species that has found a way to curb destructive cell <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-cancer-cell-death-may-transform-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growth</a>. Larger bodies offer a test case for how cells can multiply under tight regulation, hinting at new approaches for medicine.



Insights from reptile or bird physiology may also inspire creative treatments. With so many species showing unique immune or genetic responses, researchers are digging deeper into nature’s own solutions.



Overall, this discovery overturns a longstanding notion and reinforces the idea that more cells do come with bigger risks. It also highlights the incredible ways that nature deals with challenges as animals grow in size.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2422861122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS)</a>.



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Animal size and cancer risk: Surprising new details have emerged

Bigger creatures have long baffled scientists who study cancer. For...

Tree,Canopy,Against,A,Sky,Background,With,Oxygen,O2,And

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy from those rays flows through molecular pathways with an efficiency that has sparked curiosity for generations.



The new study was led by <a href="https://www.professoren.tum.de/en/hauer-juergen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Jürgen Hauer</a>, from the Technical University Munich (TUM). 



Researchers around the world are intrigued because these plants seem to tap into the puzzling principles of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/quantum-mechanics-physics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to manage light energy with hardly any losses.



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



Photosynthesis is nature’s way of making food from sunlight, and it’s the reason we have oxygen to breathe. 



Plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. Think of it like a solar-powered kitchen where plants whip up their own energy-packed meals. 



They <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunlight-may-be-the-secret-weapon-for-direct-co2-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorb sunlight</a> through chlorophyll, the green pigment in their leaves, and use that energy to power the chemical reactions that turn CO₂ and water into food. 



The best part? They release oxygen as a byproduct, which is pretty convenient for the rest of us.



Photosynthesis isn’t just about keeping plants alive - it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keeps the entire planet running</a>. It’s the foundation of the food chain, feeding everything from tiny insects to massive mammals. 



It also helps regulate Earth’s atmosphere by pulling carbon dioxide out of the air, which is crucial for balancing the climate. 



Without photosynthesis, we wouldn’t have forests, fruits, or even the air we need to survive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-use-quantum-effects">How plants use quantum effects</h2>



There is a concept known as a <a href="https://quantum.microsoft.com/en-us/insights/education/concepts/superposition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superposition</a> where energy or particles overlap in multiple possible states. It sounds futuristic, yet plants have harnessed it for billions of years to maximize their solar intake.



“When light is absorbed in a leaf, for example, the electronic excitation energy is distributed over several states of each excited chlorophyll molecule; this is called a superposition of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-particles-solution-gravitational-wave-mystery-bose-einstein-condensate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excited states</a>,” explained Professor Hauer, from TUM. 



A large part of this process involves <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chlorophyll" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chlorophyll</a>, a green pigment that absorbs specific wavelengths of light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shining-a-light-on-energy-states">Shining a light on energy states</h2>



Once a leaf catches light, it must transfer that energy before it disperses as heat. These first moments happen incredibly fast, and scientists believe that the stable electron pathways in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/photosynthetic-bacteria" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthetic bacteria</a> work in a similar way.



“Quantum mechanics is therefore central to understanding the first steps of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy tr</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/">ansfer</a> and charge separation,” said Professor Hauer, from TUM.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature05678" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> suggest that tiny wave-like processes guide the energy flow toward the chemical centers of a plant cell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-artificial-photosynthesis">Refining artificial photosynthesis</h2>



The team see their investigation as a way to apply these natural insights to engineered light-harvesting materials. 



They propose that a molecule’s electronic states, arranged in precise ways, could push energy transfer systems closer to a near-ideal performance.



“Applying these findings in the design of artificial photosynthesis units could help to utilize solar energy with unprecedented efficiency for electricity generation or photochemistry,” noted one author, from TUM.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-capturing-sunlight">Complexities of capturing sunlight</h2>



Scientists have discovered that multiple electronic states overlap in chlorophyll, forming avenues where light pulses can glide without much resistance. 



This near-lossless flow has prompted chemists and physicists to look deeper into fast relaxation steps that keep the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> from leaking away.



These fast steps include a balance of vibrations, state couplings, and energy release in the form of heat. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20615985/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> use ultrafast lasers that fire pulses lasting fractions of a trillionth of a second to watch these early changes unfold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-quantum-changes-in-plants">Small quantum changes in plants</h2>



A closer look reveals subtle differences between specific energy bands, which keep the overall transfer chain stable. 



Minor adjustments in the distance or angle of chlorophyll molecules can create big changes in how efficiently they pass along absorbed sunlight.



While classical physics alone cannot fully describe these happenings, quantum approaches appear to fill the gap. 



The main question is how to control these states in ways that mimic or surpass the leaf’s skill at capturing photons.



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



A major goal is to build artificial systems that hold onto light longer and send it wherever it is needed. 



Some researchers believe that refining these structures will lead to better photo-devices that power homes or drive chemical reactions at a lower cost.



These fields combine chemistry, biology, and physics in a push to boost the performance of everything from solar cells to photochemical reactors. 



The end game is to create technology that behaves like nature’s wonders yet fits human needs for large-scale energy use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-beyond-the-horizon">Peeking beyond the horizon</h2>



By rethinking conventional energy strategies, scientists hope to replicate the efficiency seen in plants and photosynthetic bacteria. 



That might mean reimagining how we store solar energy, with designs that keep the delicate molecular dance intact.



This latest <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> breaks ground by confirming that quantum-level effects play a practical role in photosynthesis. 



That assurance opens doors for more projects aiming to push molecular engineering to places once thought too esoteric.



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



Teams worldwide are now looking to refine advanced spectroscopic methods. 



Part of that involves filtering complex signals to trace how each portion of light energy travels through molecules before being anchored in chemical form.



Those explorations will likely feed into new concepts that bend or arrange chlorophyll-like compounds in stable frameworks. 



As the principles get clearer, labs will be able to prototype test cells that channel energy with minimal waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-quantum-mechanics-and-the-future">Plants, quantum mechanics, and the future</h2>



With continued research, engineers may learn to craft artificial setups that match nature’s unparalleled handling of sunshine. 



The goal is to shrink losses in electron flow by orchestrating molecular states the same way leaves have done for ages.



It is not just about building better solar panels, though that is a key outcome. 



It is also about figuring out how this quiet whisper of quantum activity, hidden within ordinary green leaves, can keep inspiring more ideas in energy science.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Science</a>.



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Plants rely on quantum mechanics to manage and transfer energy

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy...

Mice sometimes surprise researchers in the lab. When a young mouse spots another lying still, it may paw at its comatose friend, chew on its snout, or even yank its limp tongue aside.



<a href="https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/li-zhang/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Li Zhang</a> at the University of Southern California and his colleagues have been looking into these interactions. 



They captured <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq2677" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">footage</a> of lab mice confronting a familiar cage mate that had been anesthetized and was unresponsive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rescue-behavior-in-mice">Rescue behavior in mice</h2>



“They start with sniffing, and then grooming, and then with a very intensive or physical interaction,” related Li Zhang.



Scientists observed grooming and mouth-focused nibbling. Some mice targeted the unmoving partner’s mouth area, pulling its tongue out in an attempt to clear the airway. 



These same actions occasionally turned up in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deer-mice-shed-light-on-adaptive-evolution/">mice</a> that were interacting with companions that had passed away.



Researchers noticed how these stereotypical gestures tapered off once the still mouse revived and regained motion. 



They also found that a mouse gave more attention to an unresponsive peer that was recognizable than to one that was a stranger. 



This distinction suggests that familiarity plays a role in prompting these rescue-like behaviors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insight-from-other-animals">Insight from other animals</h2>



Large mammals such as chimpanzees, dolphins, and elephants have been recorded aiding group members that are in trouble. 



Some dolphins have guided a distressed pod mate to the surface so it could breathe, which has long intrigued scientists who study social behaviors in marine animals. 



Elephants have also been known to support injured relatives. These examples suggest that lending a helping hand isn’t always limited to humans.



Rodents, however, can be trickier to monitor in the wild. Mice prefer concealed spaces and often scatter at the slightest hint of danger. That makes it challenging to film them tending to an ailing group member outside the lab.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-oxytocin-in-rescue-behavior">Role of oxytocin in rescue behavior</h2>



These rescue-like gestures appear linked to the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-is-crucial-beyond-its-role-as-the-love-hormone/">oxytocin</a>, a hormone that influences bonding in many species. The new study detected active oxytocin-releasing neurons in the amygdala and hypothalamus. 



These brain regions, known to handle emotion and social behavior, lit up when mice recognized a cage mate in distress. 



“If we extended the observation window, maybe the success rate could be even higher,” said team member <a href="https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/huizhong-tao/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huizhong Tao</a>, also from USC.



Additional evidence showed that turning off these neuron signals or blocking their ability to dispatch oxytocin reduced the mice’s apparent attempts to help. 



Activating the same neurons produced more grooming and nibbling.



The link between this hormone and nurturing conduct has come up in past research, supporting the view that many mammals share some wiring for caring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-for-group-survival">Importance for group survival</h2>



Scientists think these behaviors might help keep social groups together and improve survival. Young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mice-pass-the-mirror-test-does-that-mean-they-are-self-aware/">mice</a> that responded to a motionless mate saw that partner bounce back to normal sooner than those left alone. 



That small difference might affect how groups function in their natural habitats, where every second can be a matter of life or death.



Some researchers say caution is needed when drawing big conclusions. Animals often do things that look human-like, but motives can be complicated. 



Still, these lab findings give hints that even small creatures might care more about their companions than we once believed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-picture">Bigger picture</h2>



Many animals rely on social bonds for carrying out different activities, from defense to nurturing infants. 



This study raises the possibility that more species have built-in behaviors that benefit the whole community. 



Researchers suspect that similar patterns might exist in other species but remain unnoticed because of how tough it is to observe these moments in the wild.



Oxytocin is a hormone found in many vertebrate species and the researchers suggest that it could underpin an innate emergency response to assist an unresponsive group member. 



This revival behavior may thus be widely present, particularly among social animals.



The discovery that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-mice-turn-to-female-mice-to-avoid-fights-keep-social-peace/">mice act as tiny caregivers</a> prompts new questions. Scientists plan to test if there are variations among different strains of mice. 



Some want to see if environmental factors, such as stress or crowding, affect how likely mice are to step up for a comatose mate.



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



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Mice offer first aid to unconscious companions

Mice sometimes surprise researchers in the lab. When a young...

For centuries, people have been amazed by auroras, which light up the polar skies in glowing shades of green, red, and purple. But these lights reflect more than just beauty - they signify the powerful forces shaping space weather. 



Auroras occur when the Sun’s charged particles hit Earth’s upper atmosphere. But another invisible force also plays a key role in space weather events.



Electrojets are massive electrical currents that flow around Earth’s poles, carrying nearly a million amps per second. When they change, they can disrupt communication, affect satellites, and even cause power outages. 



Scientists still have many questions about how these currents form, shift, and interact with Earth’s magnetic field.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ezie-s-mission-to-study-electrojets">EZIE's mission to study electrojets</h2>



To find answers, NASA is preparing to launch a new mission: the Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/ezie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EZIE</a>). This ambitious project will use a trio of CubeSats to study electrojets in unprecedented detail.



Scientists hope that EZIE’s observations will lead to better space <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-can-comets-tell-us-about-solar-activity-and-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> forecasts, helping protect astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth.



Auroral electrojets are part of a vast electrical circuit that stretches nearly 100,000 miles from Earth into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-solar-storm-warning-issued-as-two-cmes-will-hit-earth-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a>. As solar wind interacts with our planet’s magnetic field, it generates currents that flow through the upper atmosphere, particularly in the polar regions.



These currents can shift rapidly, causing sudden changes in Earth’s magnetic field that ground-based systems may struggle to handle.



“EZIE is the first mission dedicated exclusively to studying the electrojets, and it does so with a completely new measurement technique,” said Larry Kepko, EZIE mission scientist at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a>.



Previous studies of electrojets relied on ground-based observations and scattered satellite data. While these efforts provided valuable insights, they left many aspects of the electrojets’ behavior unclear. 



EZIE’s mission is to fill these gaps and provide a more complete picture of how these powerful currents evolve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-behavior-of-electrojets">Observing the behavior of electrojets </h2>



The EZIE <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/ezie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mission</a> will deploy three small CubeSats, each about the size of a carry-on suitcase, into a synchronized orbit around Earth. These satellites will travel in a “string-of-pearls” formation, following one another as they pass over the poles at an altitude of 350 miles. 



Each CubeSat will observe the same region of the atmosphere at slightly different times - anywhere from two to ten minutes apart - allowing scientists to track how electrojets change over short periods.



Each satellite carries a Microwave Electrojet Magnetogram, a sophisticated instrument designed to measure the strength and direction of electrojet currents. Developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this instrument detects microwave emissions from oxygen molecules in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-space-weather-forecasting-will-help-us-predict-solar-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>. 



Normally, these molecules emit microwaves at a frequency of 118 gigahertz, but when influenced by strong magnetic fields - such as those produced by electrojets - this emission line splits in a process known as Zeeman splitting.



By analyzing this effect, EZIE can determine how electrojets behave in real time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-space-weather-science">Advancing space weather science </h2>



One of the biggest challenges in studying electrojets is their location. They flow through a region of the atmosphere too high for balloons to reach yet too low for traditional satellites to dwell for long periods. 



EZIE’s approach solves this problem by using a remote-sensing technique that allows it to measure electrojets from space without needing to fly directly through them.



“The utilization of the Zeeman technique to remotely map current-induced magnetic fields is really a game-changing approach,” said Sam Yee, EZIE’s principal investigator at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.



The technology used in EZIE’s instruments has been refined through past NASA missions, such as TEMPEST-D and CubeRRT. 



These earlier efforts focused on Earth’s weather systems, but their advancements in radio detection and signal processing have now been adapted for space weather research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-citizen-science-initiative">A global citizen science initiative </h2>



NASA is also involving students and volunteers in the EZIE mission. Through a citizen science initiative, dozens of EZIE magnetometer kits will be distributed to students in the U.S. and volunteers worldwide.



These participants will measure magnetic field variations from the ground, allowing researchers to compare data from Earth with EZIE’s space-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-has-officially-reached-its-solar-maximum-period-in-this-solar-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">observations</a>.



“EZIE scientists will be collecting magnetic field data from above, and the students will be collecting magnetic field data from the ground,” said Nelli Mosavi, EZIE project manager at APL.



By engaging the public, the experts hope to inspire the next generation of scientists while also improving their research through a global network of observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-launching-during-solar-maximum">Launching during solar maximum</h2>



EZIE will launch in March of 2025 aboard a SpaceX <a href="https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Falcon 9</a> rocket from <a href="https://www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vandenberg Space Force Base</a> in California.



The mission is set to coincide with the peak of the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle, known as solar maximum. This timing is significant, as solar storms and increased Sun activity intensify auroral electrojets, making them easier to study.



“It’s better to launch during solar max,” said Kepko. “The electrojets respond directly to solar activity.”



By launching at this time, EZIE will have the best chance of capturing the strongest electrojet events, providing more detailed and dynamic data for scientists to analyze.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-sun-s-powerful-influence">Exploring the Sun's powerful influence </h2>



EZIE will work alongside other upcoming NASA missions, including <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/punch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PUNCH</a> (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere), which will investigate how material from the Sun’s atmosphere transforms into the solar wind. 



Together, these missions will expand our understanding of the Sun’s influence on Earth and the space environment.



The project also highlights the growing role of CubeSats in space research. These small, cost-effective satellites allow scientists to conduct cutting-edge research that would have been impossible a decade ago.



“This is a mission that couldn’t have flown a decade ago,” Kepko said. “It’s pushing the envelope of what is possible, all on a small satellite. It’s exciting to think about what we will discover.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-space-weather-monitoring">New era of space weather monitoring </h2>



Managed by NASA's Explorers Program Office, the EZIE mission is funded by NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/heliophysics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heliophysics Division</a> and led by the <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory</a>. 



By unlocking the mysteries of auroral electrojets, EZIE could revolutionize our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather. 



From protecting astronauts in orbit to safeguarding power grids on Earth, the mission’s findings could have lasting impacts on both science and daily life.



As EZIE begins its mission, it will uncover new details about the hidden forces shaping Earth and its connection to the Sun.



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NASA's new EZIE mission will study Earth's auroras from space

For centuries, people have been amazed by auroras, which light...

Supernova,Explosion,In,The,Center,Of,Galaxy,"elements,Of,This

More than two million years ago, something unusual happened to the viruses that infect fish in Lake Tanganyika, East Africa. The different types of viruses diversified rapidly indicating heightened mutation rates that have left scientists puzzled. 



Lake Tanganyika - the continent’s deepest body of water - sits in the East African Rift, framed by rugged highlands that separate it from surrounding regions. 



The lake stretches over 400 miles (645 kilometers), and holds a hefty portion of the world’s accessible freshwater.



Researchers have suggested a possible connection between the diversification of viruses infecting fish and increased levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hess-observatory-detects-highest-energy-cosmic-rays-ever-observed-origin-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic radiation</a> around that same time period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cosmic-rays-the-basics">Understanding cosmic rays - the basics</h2>



Cosmic rays are high-energy particles that zip through space at nearly the speed of light. They come from many different places in the Universe, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exploding stars (supernovae)</a>, the Sun, and even mysterious sources outside our galaxy. 



When these particles slam into Earth’s atmosphere, they create a shower of secondary particles that can reach the surface. 



Some cosmic rays are so powerful that they can even mess with electronics, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rare-g5-level-geomagnetic-storm-highest-level-hits-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disrupt satellite communications</a>, and slightly increase radiation exposure for astronauts and high-altitude flights. 



Scientists are still unraveling their secrets, but one thing’s clear - they’re a major player in the universe’s high-energy drama.



Despite their sci-fi name, cosmic rays are a natural part of life on Earth. Our planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> and atmosphere act like a shield, blocking most of them before they reach us. 



But they still play a role in shaping Earth’s environment - some studies even suggest they might influence cloud formation and, in turn, the climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-radiation-and-evolution">Cosmic radiation and evolution</h2>



Scientists had previously discovered radioactive iron in deep-sea sediments that indicate the effects of a nearby supernova event around 2.5 million years ago. 



The star’s explosion released intense ionizing cosmic radiation which, based on modeling predictions, could have collided with the Earth’s surface for roughly 100,000 years.



“It’s really cool to find ways in which these super distant things could impact our lives or the planet’s habitability,” said lead author Caitlyn Nojiri from <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz</a>.



Prior studies have shown that cosmic radiation can break DNA strands, potentially changing genetic material and affecting the way in which organisms evolve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-rays-linked-to-viral-changes">Cosmic rays linked to viral changes</h2>



Noriji and colleagues set out to explore whether cosmic radiation could have played a part in the expansion of viruses identified in Lake Tanganyika's fish species.



The research team does not claim absolute certainty about linking cosmic events to the rise of new aquatic pathogens. “We can’t say that they are connected, but they have a similar timeframe,” said Nojiri.



The biggest surprise was learning that a distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-high-energy-cosmic-rays-did-something-outside-our-galaxy-send-them-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar</a> explosion and a local virus surge possibly overlapped in time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-cosmic-trail">Piecing together the cosmic trail</h2>



Data on iron-60, a radioactive isotope created by stellar blasts, helped trace back the star’s location. 



Calculations suggest that our solar system floated through the Local Bubble, an area of sparse gas shaped by the explosions of multiple ancient supernovae.



Scientists linked that passage to increased cosmic rays reaching Earth. Some researchers believe those rays, when strong enough, can cause mutations and potentially influence biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-rays-help-archaeologists-determine-age-discoveries-prehistoric-settlements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outcomes</a>. 



The current study highlights the importance of cosmic events that might alter life in unexpected ways.



Nojiri’s path began in community college, where she discovered a passion for astrophysics. She joined specialized programs that guided her into research, with mentorship along the way.



“People from different walks of life bring different perspectives to science and can solve problems in very different ways,” said Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz, who also contributed to the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-rays-and-viral-diversity">Cosmic rays and viral diversity</h2>



Questions still remain about how cosmic rays might accelerate mutation in viruses, especially in an environment as distinct as Lake Tanganyika. 



Scientists point to the uniqueness of this rift lake, which has isolated populations of species that are rarely found elsewhere.



Researchers believe that once DNA strands are damaged, viral replication might shift in ways that spawn more diversity. 



This line of reasoning has inspired follow-up work on other evolutionary bursts, searching for correlations with cosmic phenomena.



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



Although the supernova event occurred millions of years ago, scientists are still interested in the potential echoes today. 



Some teams wonder if modern species still carry vestiges of ancient mutation waves that were triggered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexplained-radiation-spike-found-deep-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic energy</a>.



Other teams are focused on current cosmic radiation levels - assessing whether another close stellar explosion, though unlikely soon, could produce a similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-particle-acceleration-new-source-of-cosmic-rays-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence</a>. 



Understanding these patterns potentially helps to track life’s changes over geological time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-events-and-life-on-earth">Cosmic events and life on Earth</h2>



Nojiri aims to pursue a doctorate in astrophysics, driven by her fascination with cosmic events that possibly shape life on Earth. 



She believes that studying the universe can reveal unexpected connections between space and biology.



Her research focuses on cosmic rays and their potential role in altering DNA millions of years ago. 



Scientists continue to explore how radiation from distant supernovae may have influenced evolution in Earth’s ecosystems. Each new discovery strengthens the idea that cosmic forces can impact life in surprising ways.



Nojiri hopes her work will inspire future scientists to explore the deep connections between space and life. The study of cosmic rays continues to offer valuable clues about Earth’s past and future.



The study is published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ada27a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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How cosmic rays from a supernova explosion impacted Earth and changed history

More than two million years ago, something unusual happened to...

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that plays a significant role in global warming, yet its persistent emissions often go unnoticed.



As we strive for a more sustainable and climate-friendly future, understanding the sources of methane emissions is crucial to predicting the ability of the Earth's atmosphere to trap heat from the sun.



A recent study has identified the top 10 regions worldwide where methane is consistently released, whether from natural wetlands or human-driven activities like oil extraction and the burning of coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-global-methane-emissions">Investigating global methane emissions</h2>



Researchers analyzed data from hundreds of potential sources of methane. They relied on data from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-5P" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Copernicus Sentinel-5P mission</a>, which made it possible to estimate emissions at 217 potential locations.



Rather than focusing on "super-emitters" - typically oil and gas operations, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crucial-rare-earth-elements-discovered-coal-mines-united-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal mines</a>, or poorly managed landfills that release large amounts of methane unpredictably - the study examined sources that emit methane consistently over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-persistent-methane-sources">Detecting persistent methane sources</h2>



The research was guided by a new methane concentration dataset and an algorithm developed at the <a href="https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bremen</a>. 



The university was involved as part of the <a href="https://climate.esa.int/en/projects/ghgs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA Climate Change Initiative Greenhouse Gas Project</a> and the ESA Earth System Science Hub projects, Methane CAMP and SMART-CH4.



Claus Zehner, ESA's Mission Manager for Sentinel-5P, highlighted the unique capabilities of the mission.



"Sentinel-5P is currently the only satellite that provides the feasibility to detect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-have-emerged-as-major-source-of-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane sources</a> on a global scale and on a daily basis," noted Zehner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotting-the-persistent-emitters">Spotting the persistent emitters</h2>



The experts analyzed methane concentrations at different locations between 2018 and 2021.



Any location where methane levels were consistently elevated, when compared to surrounding areas, was identified as a potentially persistent emitter.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/global-methane_Potential_persistent_methane_source_regions_2018_2021_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/global-methane_Potential_persistent_methane_source_regions_2018_2021_ESA_1s.webp" alt="The data used in this map of the global atmospheric methane average in 2021. Areas in dark red have the highest methane concentrations of around 1900 parts per billion, while blue areas show lower methane concentration in the atmosphere of around 1700 parts per billion. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1960962"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The data used in this map of the global atmospheric methane average in 2021. Areas in dark red have the highest methane concentrations of around 1900 parts per billion, while blue areas show lower methane concentration in the atmosphere of around 1700 parts per billion. Credit: ESA</figcaption></figure>



"The aim was not to identify specific events, where methane is only released for a short period. Instead, the aim was to identify sources that emit almost continuously during the four years that were analyzed," said Michael Buchwitz, senior scientist at the University of Bremen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wetlands-and-natural-methane-emissions">Wetlands and natural methane emissions</h2>



The analysis identified the Sudd wetland in South Sudan as the world's largest persistent emitter of methane, at 4.5 million tons per year. 



The Iberá wetland in Argentina is also a major emitter, with an annual production of 3.3 million tons of methane.



Microbes found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wetlands-day-the-hidden-potential-of-tidal-landscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wetland</a> soils and waters are often anaerobic and release significant quantities of methane as a result of their metabolic reactions. 



Although this is a natural source of methane gas, it has meaningful consequences for global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-footprint-from-oil-gas-and-coal">Human footprint from oil, gas, and coal</h2>



Anthropogenic activities were the cause of the remaining eight largest persistent sources of this heat-trapping gas. 



The biggest anthropogenic emissions were from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/britain-approves-controversial-oil-and-gas-field-in-the-north-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil and gas fields</a> on the west coast of Turkmenistan, where an estimated 3.5 million tons of methane are produced each year.



Coal fields in China and the Kuznetsk Basin, in Russia, along with oil and gas fields in the U.S. (Permian and Delaware Basins) made up most of the remaining top 10 global sites where methane is emitted slowly and persistently, leaving a considerable footprint.



In addition, Dakha in Bangladesh and Liaoning in China produced significant amounts methane through other anthropogenic activities, including wastewater management, digestive gas from ruminant animals such as cattle, sheep and goats, as well as from manure and rice&nbsp;fields.



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



Methane is the second most important greenhouse gas after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a>, as it contributes significantly to global warming.



Its concentrations have skyrocketed to almost three times the levels recorded in 1850, making high-emitting and persistent sources a serious concern for our planet.



Given that this gas has a greater warming effect than carbon dioxide, cutting methane emissions would be a crucial strategy in mitigating the effects of global warming.



It's our task to tackle these persistent sources head-on, in order to reduce the level of methane emissions entering the atmosphere on a daily basis. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-methane-challenge">Addressing the methane challenge</h2>



Identifying the locations of the world’s most important persistent methane emitters is just the first step. Managing or reducing these emissions will require targeted strategies.



Unlike carbon dioxide, methane remains in the atmosphere for a short period of time only, but its warming potential is significantly greater. This potentially makes immediate reductions in emission highly effective in slowing climate change.



Governments and industries are increasingly prioritizing methane mitigation. The <a href="https://www.globalmethanepledge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Methane Pledge</a>, launched at COP26, aims to cut emissions by at least 30% by 2030, with over 150 countries committed to action.



Technologies such as satellite monitoring, leak detection in oil and gas operations, and improved waste management practices are crucial in reducing emissions of methane that arise from human activities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-wetlands-and-methane-emissions">Managing wetlands and methane emissions</h2>



For natural sources like wetlands, mitigation is more complex. While these ecosystems are vital for biodiversity and carbon storage, researchers are exploring ways to balance their natural methane output with conservation efforts.



Strategies such as wetland restoration, water management techniques, and microbial interventions could help optimize emissions without harming these critical environments.



With growing awareness and improved detection capabilities, policymakers and scientists now have the data needed to drive targeted action.



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<a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-5P/Top_10_persistent_methane_sources" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Featured image</a>: A study by the University of Bremen has identified 217 potential persistent methane source regions, estimated their emissions and created a global map of their distribution. The data was from the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite, taken over the four-year period 2018–2021. It identifies some of the major regions that emit methane on a persistent, continuous basis. Credit: ESA



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://acp.copernicus.org/articles/24/10441/2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmosphere, Chemistry and Physics</a>.



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Top 10 global methane emissions hotspots spotted by satellites

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that plays a significant...

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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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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Native to Eastern North America to the Rocky Mountains, the dogbane beetle can appear to have an iridescent shell of blue, green, and orange hues depending on the light.

Dogbane Leaf Beetle

Golden pheasants, also known as Chinese pheasants or rainbow pheasants, are native to the forest in mountainous areas of western China. The males have the most color with a golden crest , deep orange cape, bright red body, and can include blue, green, and black through on it's wings.

Dogbane Leaf Beetle

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