Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy NGC 2090, located approximately 40 million light-years away in the constellation Columba.



NGC 2090 is a stunning spiral galaxy that is notable for its well-defined structure, featuring a bright central core surrounded by tightly wound spiral arms.&nbsp;



These arms are filled with young, hot stars and interstellar gas, indicating active star formation.&nbsp;



Captured by the Webb Telescope’s MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the image reveals the galaxy's winding spiral arms and the swirling gas and dust of its disc in magnificent and unique detail, noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-ngc-2090">Observations of NGC 2090</h2>



The galaxy’s spiral pattern is relatively symmetrical, making it a fascinating object of study for astronomers interested in galactic evolution and dynamics.&nbsp;



Observations of NGC 2090, including those conducted by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-helps-solve-the-mystery-of-a-young-eruptive-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope, have provided valuable insights into the properties of its stellar populations, gas content, and the nature of its spiral structure.



“NGC 2090 was one of many galaxies studied by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to refine the measurement of the Universe’s expansion rate, or ‘Hubble constant,’” said ESA.&nbsp;



“This can be done by observing a special type of variable stars named ‘Cepheids’ in relatively nearby galaxies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-ngc-2090">New insights into NGC 2090</h2>



A Cepheid-based measurement from 1998 indicated that NGC 2090 is 37 million light-years away from Earth. However, the latest measurements suggest that the galaxy is 40 million light-years away.



“Already before that Hubble project in 1998, NGC 2090 had been well studied as a very prominent nearby example of star formation,” noted ESA.&nbsp;



“Described as a ‘flocculent’ spiral, this galaxy has a patchy, dusty disc and arms that are flaky or not visible at all. We can see those patterns well in Hubble's visible-light images. However, Webb’s NIRCam near-infrared data reveal the spiral arms with remarkable clarity.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-spiral-galaxies">What are spiral galaxies?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are among the most common and visually striking types of galaxies in the universe.&nbsp;



They are characterized by their flat, disk-like shape with a bright central bulge surrounded by sweeping spiral arms.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-arms-and-central-bulge-nbsp">Spiral arms and central bulge&nbsp;</h3>



The arms of a spiral galaxy are regions where stars, gas, and dust are concentrated, often glowing brightly with the light of young, hot stars that form within them.&nbsp;



The central bulge typically contains older stars and can host a supermassive black hole at its core.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Types of spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on how tightly their arms are wound and the size of their central bulge, ranging from tightly wound "Sa" galaxies to loosely wound "Sc" types.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-nbsp">Star formation&nbsp;</h3>



The structure of spiral galaxies is maintained by the interplay of gravity and angular momentum, with a rotating disk of stars and gas giving rise to their iconic shape.&nbsp;



They are active sites of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> due to the abundance of gas in their arms.&nbsp;



Spiral galaxies often have a halo of older stars and globular clusters surrounding their disks, which provides clues about their formation and evolution.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxy">Barred spiral galaxy</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, the galaxy that contains our Solar System, is a prime example of a barred spiral galaxy, a subtype where a bar-shaped structure of stars extends from the central bulge.&nbsp;



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



Columba is a small and relatively faint constellation in the southern sky, whose name means "dove" in Latin. It was introduced in the late 16th century by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius and first appeared in a celestial atlas by Johann Bayer in 1603.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-jupiter-discovered-in-the-great-bear-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constellation</a> is said to represent the dove sent out by Noah during the biblical flood, tying it to themes of hope and peace.



Columba lies near the larger constellation Canis Major and is bordered by others such as Lepus and Puppis.&nbsp;



Although it lacks particularly bright stars, its most notable star, Alpha Columbae (also called Phact), shines at a magnitude of approximately 2.6 and is a hot blue-white star. Beta Columbae, another prominent star in the constellation, is a slightly cooler, yellow-white star.



The constellation is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere during the summer months, though it can also be seen from lower latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope&nbsp;



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Webb unveils spiral galaxy NGC 2090 in magnificent detail

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a satellite view of the fires burning in Southern California.



“Five wildfires - the biggest of which are the Palisades and the Eaton fires - are still currently burning (as of January 10, 2025) in areas of north Los Angeles. At least 10 people are known to have lost their lives and many more properties have been burnt to the ground,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_struggles_to_contain_wildfires" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“This image, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission on January 9, 2025, shows the Palisades fire at lower left and the Eaton fire at upper right, with smoke seen reaching Catalina Island and the Santa Barbara reserve to the south of the fire.”&nbsp;



The fires have now burned more than 37,000 acres - an area bigger than San Francisco - according to Cal Fire. More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tens-of-thousands-of-residents-displaced-by-fires">Tens of thousands of residents displaced by fires</h2>



The Palisades Fire is the largest at more than 21,000 acres, while the Eaton Fire has burned more than 14,000 acres. Those blazes are 11 percent and 15 percent contained, respectively.



Evacuation orders have displaced over 150,000 residents, with an additional 166,000 on alert. Temporary shelters are operating at full capacity, and widespread power outages have affected nearly 1.6 million homes.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-winds-and-a-lack-of-resources-nbsp">Strong winds and a lack of resources&nbsp;</h2>



Firefighting efforts are being hampered by strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-more-toxic-than-other-sources-of-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winds</a>, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour, and a lack of resources. Some fire hydrants have run dry, complicating containment efforts.&nbsp;



In response to the crisis, President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance, and additional firefighters from neighboring states are joining the efforts.&nbsp;



The California National Guard has been deployed, and the Department of Defense is providing personnel and equipment. Despite these measures, the fires continue to pose a significant threat to the region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-threats-from-the-palisades-fire-nbsp">New threats from the Palisades Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The Palisades Fire, which began near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, has rapidly expanded, prompting new evacuation orders for areas including Tarzana and Encino in the San Fernando Valley.&nbsp;



The fire's swift progression has been exacerbated by strong winds, causing it to grow by "three football fields of land per minute." This rapid expansion has led to mandatory evacuations along sections of the Pacific Coast Highway and surrounding areas.&nbsp;



The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that more than 10,000 houses and 13,000 buildings are under threat.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-fires">Unpredictable behavior of the fires</h2>



In response to the advancing flames, evacuation orders were extended into Tarzana and Encino on January 10. Residents in these areas have been advised to evacuate promptly due to the fire's unpredictable behavior and the potential for further spread.&nbsp;



The situation remains critical, with firefighting efforts ongoing to contain the blaze and protect threatened communities.&nbsp;



Authorities continue to monitor the fire's progression and are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders for their safety.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dry-lightning-sparks-the-most-destructive-california-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildfires</a> in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;



Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flames</a> rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area’s diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;



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



Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-forests-are-losing-their-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destructive</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-california-fires">Impacts of the California fires</h2>



The Palisades and Eaton Fires are among the most destructive wildfires in California's history, both in terms of structures destroyed and economic impact. Fortunately, however, they have not surpassed the Camp Fire in terms of human fatalities.



The Camp Fire of 2018 remains the deadliest wildfire in the state of California, with 85 fatalities. 



The financial impact of the current fires is unprecedented. Estimates suggest that the damages could reach between $135 billion and $150 billion, potentially making these wildfires the costliest in U.S. history.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Satellite captures devastating fires in Southern California

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of Mount Nemrut, a volcano located in eastern Turkey near Lake Van.



Mount Nemrut is notable for its immense caldera, which was formed through a series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a>. The caldera, one of the largest in the world, now contains several lakes such as Lake Nemrut.&nbsp;



"The eastern half of the caldera is partially filled by solidified lava flows from past eruptions. Snow cover present at the time of this photo accentuates pressure ridges that formed as the lava was flowing and cooling," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"These pressure ridges vary in size, thickness, and orientation due to the varying viscosity and flow direction of the lavas during eruptions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-lake-nemrut">Formation of Lake Nemrut</h2>



"Lake Nemrut (Nemrut Gölü) occupies the western half of the caldera, creating a rough crescent shape that partially submerges the old lava flows," said NASA.



"This freshwater lake, reaching up to 176 meters deep, is accompanied by a smaller lake at the upper-center of the caldera."



The lake was formed after the collapse of the Nemrut volcano's summit. This collapse created a massive crater, which gradually filled with water over time, forming the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unesco-world-heritage-site">UNESCO World Heritage Site </h2>



Mount Nemrut and its surroundings are part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological and geological significance.



The site is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species that use the lake as a stopover during migration. The caldera also contains smaller lakes and wetlands, adding to the area's biodiversity.



Lake Nemrut is a popular destination for tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.



Despite its popularity, the lake remains relatively remote and unspoiled, contributing to its appeal as a natural wonder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-nemrut-has-shaped-the-landscape">Mount Nemrut has shaped the landscape</h2>



Geologically, Mount Nemrut is interesting because its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a> have played a key role in shaping the local landscape. 



Its last major eruption occurred around 1441 AD, which indicates that it's not currently active but is considered dormant.



The area around Nemrut is known for its geothermal activity, including hot springs and fumaroles, suggesting that there is still significant heat beneath the surface.



Over thousands of years, various civilizations have inhabited the region around Nemrut, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-a-king">Tribute to a king</h2>



The summit of Mount Nemrut is dominated by a vast funerary mound constructed by King Antiochus I Theos, who ruled the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st century BCE. 



The site was intended to serve as his tomb sanctuary and a place to commemorate the king's vision of divine kingship and unity between Eastern and Western cultures.



The mound, made of loose crushed stones, measures about 50 meters (164 feet) in height and spans a diameter of 150 meters (492 feet), creating an imposing feature visible from afar.



Surrounding the mound are terraces on the eastern, western, and northern sides, each adorned with colossal statues and reliefs. The statues, ranging in height from 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet), represent various deities, including Zeus, Apollo, Hercules, and the goddess Tyche, alongside King Antiochus himself. 



The heads of the statues, many of which have toppled over due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> and erosion, lie scattered around the site, creating an iconic and enigmatic scene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiritual-and-religious-practices">Spiritual and religious practices</h2>



In addition to the statues, inscriptions at Mount Nemrut provide valuable historical information about the kingdom, the king's lineage, and the religious practices of the time.



The site is not only a marvel of ancient engineering but also a spiritual and astronomical center. Scholars believe the terraces were aligned with celestial events, serving as an observatory for solstices and equinoxes.



In addition to its natural and historical significance, the Nemrut volcano has been the subject of scientific study, as researchers aim to understand more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in the region, the history of its eruptions, and the potential risks it may pose in the future.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Mount Nemrut: Ancient mysteries and natural marvels 

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

For years, it was widely believed that waking up triggered an immediate release of cortisol, the stress hormone. 



This response, known as the cortisol awakening response (CAR), has been used in clinical studies. However, new research from the University of Bristol reveals that this common assumption might be incorrect.



The study suggests that cortisol levels actually increase in the hours before waking up, not immediately upon waking. The research challenges previous conclusions that linked cortisol release directly to the awakening process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cortisol-awakening-response">Cortisol awakening response</h2>



Previous studies have relied on the concept of CAR to evaluate how the body responds to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holiday-stress-is-higher-this-year-compared-to-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> in conditions like PTSD, depression, and obesity. The CAR assumes that cortisol, a stress hormone, spikes right after waking as a natural response to the stress of starting the day.



However, these earlier studies focused only on measuring cortisol levels in saliva after the person had already woken up, missing an important part of the process - the time before waking. This left an incomplete picture of how cortisol levels change during the sleep-to-wake transition.



To address this gap, researchers at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> designed a study to measure cortisol levels both before and after waking. Instead of relying on post-wake saliva samples, they used an automated sampling system to track cortisol in 201 participants aged 18 to 68.



This allowed them to analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">full pattern</a> of cortisol secretion, including the changes that occur before waking up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cortisol-does-not-spike-after-waking">Cortisol does not spike after waking</h2>



The results were surprising. The study found no evidence that cortisol secretion increases immediately after waking. In fact, there was no significant difference in the rate of cortisol increase during the hour after waking compared to the hour before waking.



“We found that any changes in cortisol around the time of awakening are more likely to be the tail end of the daily rhythm,” said Stafford Lightman, professor of medicine at Bristol Medical School and one of the study’s lead authors.



This rhythm begins in the early hours of the morning and peaks shortly after habitual wake time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-circadian-rhythms">Role of circadian rhythms</h2>



The study also uncovered substantial variability in cortisol concentration and its rate of change among individuals. 



Factors such as sleep length and timing seemed to influence these differences. The researchers cautioned that interpreting cortisol values solely based on post-wake measurements could be misleading.



Dr. Thomas Upton, clinical research fellow and co-lead author, emphasized the importance of considering both pre- and post-wake cortisol levels in future studies.



"Much caution should be exercised if attempting to interpret post-wake cortisol values where information about the pre-waking state is not known," he explained.



The findings also stress the importance of circadian rhythms, the body’s natural 24-hour cycles, in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-is-contagious-and-this-applies-to-animals-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulating cortisol</a>. "Cortisol changes around waking are more about the body's internal rhythms than a response to awakening," said Lightman.



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



The research offers valuable insights into the role of cortisol in sleep disorders, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-stress-harms-the-brains-of-low-status-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, and other conditions. 



“Our study opens up a whole new framework for understanding the relationship of overnight increases in cortisol with sleep,” Lightman said.



Marcus Munafò, professor of biological osychology at the University of Bristol, noted that this study challenges “received wisdom” in research and stresses the importance of rigorously testing previous findings.



Professor Munafò also highlighted the significance of the study in understanding the biology of sleep-wake cycles.



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



The researchers suggest that future studies on sleep and arousal should examine the dynamic changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, which regulates cortisol release. 



Understanding how sleep affects cortisol secretion could lead to better insights into various health conditions and improve treatment strategies.



The study was funded by the EU Horizon 2020 grant ‘Ultradian’ and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (<a href="https://www.ukri.org/who-we-are/bbsrc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBSRC</a>).



Ultimately, the new findings encourage a reassessment of the cortisol awakening response and emphasize the complexity of cortisol <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulation</a>.



Researchers will need to consider both pre-wake and post-wake cortisol levels to gain a fuller understanding of how this hormone interacts with sleep, health, and behavior.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1844" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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Stress hormones rise during sleep to prepare your body for the day

For years, it was widely believed that waking up triggered...

Many decades ago, a massive star collapsed. A shockwave erupted, tearing the star apart. As this shockwave hit the star’s surface, it created a burst of intense X-rays, ultraviolet light, and a powerful light echo.



This pulse traveled across space, and 350 years later, it reached a vast region of interstellar gas and dust. This explosion lit up the surrounding material, warming it and causing it to glow in infrared light.



Thanks to NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers are now able to observe this glowing cosmic material in unprecedented detail. 



The infrared light echoes created by this supernova have revealed intricate structures, like the knots and whorls of wood grain. These observations have allowed scientists to map the interstellar medium in 3D for the very first time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-gas-and-dust-details">Interstellar gas and dust details</h2>



"We were pretty shocked to see this level of detail," said Jacob Jencson, principal investigator from <a href="https://www.ipac.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caltech/IPAC</a> in Pasadena. 



The telescope revealed layers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-dust-may-contain-signs-of-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar material</a>, resembling the layers of an onion.



"We think every dense, dusty region that we see, and most of the ones we don’t see, look like this on the inside. We just have never been able to look inside them before," noted Josh Peek of the <a href="https://www.stsci.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Telescope Science Institute</a> in Baltimore.



Webb's infrared imaging is allowing scientists to peer into areas of space that were once completely concealed, uncovering a hidden cosmic landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-light-echoes">What are light echoes?</h2>



The light echo phenomenon occurs when a star explodes, sending light into the surrounding clumps of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-can-engulf-the-entire-planet-of-mars-but-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar dust</a>. This light then heats up the dust, causing it to glow in an expanding pattern. 



Webb's Near-Infrared Camera (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/nircam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIRCam</a>) has been crucial in studying these light echoes, revealing their intricate expansion over just a few weeks - a remarkably fast evolution for cosmic phenomena.



The researchers have focused on a particular light echo near the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. This light echo comes from background material behind Cassiopeia A, not from the material ejected by the star’s explosion. 



NASA's retired <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/spitzer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spitzer Space Telescope</a> first observed this phenomenon, but Webb’s exquisite resolution has provided a far clearer view of these cosmic echoes.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="huBQbcgU76-4226095-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stunning-images-from-webb">Stunning images from Webb</h2>



The most striking features in the Webb images are dense, tightly packed sheets of gas and dust. These filaments appear on scales of about 400 astronomical units - less than one-hundredth of a light-year.



“We did not know that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-storm-triggered-stunning-auroras-worldwide-october-11-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar medium</a> had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,” said Josh Peek.



These sheet-like structures might be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. Webb's images also showcase areas resembling knots in wood grain, which could represent magnetic "islands" within the interstellar medium's more uniform magnetic fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3d-scan-of-the-cosmos">3D scan of the cosmos</h2>



The data collected from <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> are revolutionary. "This is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan," explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute.



"We have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium."



These findings will not only enhance our understanding of the space around us, but they could also change how we approach the study of the universe's most distant and mysterious regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-to-study-light-echoes">Opportunities to study light echoes</h2>



In addition to these spectacular images, the team is planning to conduct spectroscopic observations using Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/mid-infrared-instrument-miri/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>). 



"We can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it’s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules," said Jencson.



Infrared light echoes are rare events that require a unique type of supernova explosion. The upcoming Nancy Grace <a href="https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roman Space Telescope</a> is expected to provide additional opportunities to study light echoes, potentially offering new insights that Webb can explore in greater detail.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lasting-legacy-of-webb">The lasting legacy of Webb</h2>



"Even as a star dies, its light endures - echoing across the cosmos. It's been an extraordinary three years since we launched NASA's James Webb Space Telescope," reflected NASA Administrator <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/nasa-administrator-bill-nelson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Nelson</a>.



"Every image, every discovery, shows a portrait not only of the majesty of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-space-station-observes-something-unknown-55-miles-above-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a> but the power of the NASA team and the promise of international partnerships.



"What a privilege it has been to oversee this monumental effort, shaped by the tireless dedication of thousands of scientists and engineers around the globe. This latest image beautifully captures the lasting legacy of Webb - a keyhole into the past and a mission that will inspire generations to come."



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech/IPAC)



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Webb captures the light echoes of an exploding star

Many decades ago, a massive star collapsed. A shockwave erupted,...

In our efforts to sustain the planet, one vital aspect that we have often failed to consider is the role of tree crops. 



Did you know that tree crops cover an astounding 183 million hectares worldwide? Yet, they remain largely overlooked in agricultural policies. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-of-tree-crops">The potential of tree crops </h2>



Whether it's apples, cherries, olives, nuts, coffee, or cacao, tree crops offer much more than just a tasty snack or your morning caffeine boost.



A recently published study has highlighted their immense potential not only by feeding us globally but by safeguarding biodiversity, tackling climate change, and improving millions of lives worldwide. 



The international team of authors shared their findings in a Perspectives article published in the journal Nature Sustainability.



"In this Perspective, we highlight the potential of properly managed and incentivized perennial woody crops to support holistic sustainable development and urge scientists and policymakers to develop an effective agenda to better harness their benefits," wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overlooked-role-of-tree-crops">Overlooked role of tree crops</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-agriculture-is-draining-a-natural-wonder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Agricultural</a> policies have traditionally focused on annual crops like wheat, rice, and sunflowers. These crops have a much shorter life cycle, typically completing germination to harvest in a year. 



While promoting sustainable practices for these crops is essential, their ecological benefits are limited. Their simpler vegetation and short harvest cycles don't offer the same long-term ecological benefits.



Tree crops, in contrast, are far more complex. They consist of multiple layers of vegetation, such as herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees, creating stable ecosystems that support biodiversity when managed sustainably. 



"We’re missing an opportunity to leverage tree crops to address some of the biggest environmental and social challenges of our time," said Dr. Carlos Martínez-Núñez, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.ebd.csic.es/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doñana Biological Station</a>.



These systems not only provide habitats for various species but also contribute significantly to environmental protection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-beyond-food-production">Benefits beyond food production</h2>



Tree crops offer a range of environmental benefits. Their permanent root systems help prevent soil erosion and improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-soil-day-2024-protecting-our-planets-lifeline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil fertility</a>. The extensive leaf litter from these crops enriches the soil, making it more productive over time. 



Additionally, tree crops act as natural carbon sinks, sequestering greenhouse gases and aiding in climate change mitigation.



These crops also enhance habitat connectivity, allowing fragmented ecosystems to thrive and providing a buffer against the impacts of intensive agriculture. By improving ecosystem services and offering stable, year-round habitats, tree crops play an essential role in global biodiversity conservation.



Moreover, tree crops are less mechanized and demand more manual labor than other forms of agriculture. This makes them vital sources of employment in low- and middle-income countries, where they are widespread. 



"When managed properly, these agricultural systems can be a powerful tool for biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and rural poverty alleviation," noted Dr. Martínez-Núñez.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-call-for-action">A call for action</h2>



The study highlights the need for tailored policies and research to ensure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-are-in-a-race-against-time-to-save-our-food-supply-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable management</a> of tree crops.



Dr. Elena Velado-Alonso, co-author of the study and researcher at Göttingen University’s <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/596513.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Functional Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology Group</a>, emphasized the importance of context-specific measures.



"Tree cropping areas overlap with most of the world’s biodiversity-rich areas, making them key to conservation," said Dr. Velado-Alonso. "However, local practices and landscape-scale measures adapted to different contexts are needed."



To maximize the contribution of tree crops to global sustainability, the research team calls for implementing regulations, financial incentives, and policies that support improved agricultural practices. 



These steps could harness tree crops' full potential in addressing key environmental and social challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-agriculture-with-tree-crops">Rethinking agriculture with tree crops</h2>



This call to action marks a crucial step in rethinking agriculture's role in creating a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-and-agriculture-are-locked-in-a-destructive-feedback-loop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable and equitable world</a>. 



By embracing the benefits of tree crops and promoting sustainable practices, we can take significant strides toward achieving the United Nations' <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Development Goals</a>. These crops are not just a source of food and income - they are a powerful tool for environmental protection and social progress.



With more attention, research, and support, tree crops could become the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, helping to address the climate crisis, conserve biodiversity, and uplift communities worldwide.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-024-01483-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Sustainability</a>.



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Tree crops: A path to feeding the world and saving the planet

In our efforts to sustain the planet, one vital aspect...

Astronomers have long sought to find the origin of the building blocks of life, and how elements like carbon, which are essential for life, spread across the universe. 



Recent findings using data from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope have unveiled a fascinating process in action. 



In the Milky Way, 5,000 light-years away, two massive stars in the Wolf-Rayet 140 system are spewing out massive amounts of carbon-rich dust.



This process provides valuable insight into the origin of elements that are necessary for the formation of new stars and planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-and-carbon-dust">Stars and carbon dust</h2>



In the Wolf-Rayet 140 system, two massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-reveal-the-first-detailed-image-of-a-dying-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> orbit each other in stretched-out, oval-shaped paths called elongated orbits. 



Every eight years, their orbits bring them close together. During these close approaches, the powerful winds from each star crash into one another. This collision compresses the materials in the winds, creating dust particles that are rich in carbon.



The carbon-rich dust doesn’t stay near the stars. Instead, it forms into expanding shells that spread outward into space. 



These shells are visible because of the James Webb Space Telescope's ability to observe mid-infrared light, which highlights cooler materials like this dust. This discovery allows astronomers to track how the dust forms and spreads.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-of-carbon-dust-shells">Movement of carbon dust shells</h2>



“The telescope not only confirmed that these dust shells are real, its data also showed that the dust shells are moving outward at consistent velocities, revealing visible changes over incredibly short periods of time,” said Emma Lieb, a doctoral student and lead author of the study.



Amazingly, the dust shells created by the stars in Wolf-Rayet 140 expand at an incredible speed of over 1,600 miles (2,500 kilometers) per second, which is almost 1% of the speed of light. 



This rapid expansion is extraordinary, as most changes in space occur over much longer timescales.



The <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> has identified 17 distinct shells of dust, each representing a moment when the stars' close encounters produced new material. 



These shells span over 130 years, showing the consistent and ongoing process of dust creation.



However, many older shells may have already dispersed into space and become too faint to detect. Thousands more are expected to form as this process continues over time.



“We are used to thinking about events in space taking place slowly, over millions or billions of years. In this system, the observatory is showing that the dust shells are expanding from one year to the next,” remarked Jennifer Hoffman, a co-author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dust-seeds-stars-and-planets">Carbon dust seeds stars and planets</h2>



These carbon-rich dust particles vary in structure, either forming amorphous clouds as large as our solar system or floating individually.



“Mid-infrared observations are absolutely crucial for this analysis, since the dust in this system is fairly cool. Near-infrared and visible light would only show the shells that are closest to the star,” noted Ryan Lau, a co-author of the study.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Wolf-Rayet-140_dust-shells_time-lapse_Webb_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Wolf-Rayet-140_dust-shells_time-lapse_Webb_NASA_1s.webp" alt="The dust is racing away from the central stars at almost 1% the speed of light and no longer lines up in the third image. When the winds of the massive stars, which are buried within the white central region in the first and second images, collide and that material compresses, it forms carbon-rich dust that moves away from the stars. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI" class="wp-image-1956620"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The dust is racing away from the central stars at almost 1% the speed of light and no longer lines up in the third image. When the winds of the massive stars, which are buried within the white central region in the first and second images, collide and that material compresses, it forms carbon-rich dust that moves away from the stars. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI</figcaption></figure>



The dust generated by Wolf-Rayet 140 might eventually contribute to the formation of new stars and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-planet-system-hd110067-discovered-that-moves-in-perfect-mathematical-harmony/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets in the galaxy</a>. 



“We know carbon is necessary for the formation of rocky planets and solar systems like ours,” Hoffman added. 



“It’s exciting to get a glimpse into how binary star <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">systems</a> not only create carbon-rich dust, but also propel it into our galactic neighborhood.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-wolf-rayet-140">Future of Wolf-Rayet 140</h2>



The Wolf-Rayet star in the Wolf-Rayet 140 system is approaching the end of its life, a phase that brings significant cosmic consequences. 



Being more than ten times the mass of the Sun, this star's immense size and energy will determine how it ends its days.



One possible outcome is a supernova explosion, a dramatic and powerful event that could completely disrupt the surrounding environment. 



If this happens, the carbon-rich dust shells that the star has been producing might be scattered across space, potentially contributing to the formation of new stars and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-planets-formed-in-the-harsh-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> elsewhere.



The other possibility is that the star will collapse under its own force of gravity to form a black hole. If this occurs, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-diamond-dust-reverse-global-warming-and-cool-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust</a> shells already created would likely remain intact, preserving a unique snapshot of the star’s legacy in the cosmos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-have-we-learned">What have we learned?</h2>



This dual possibility highlights the profound impact such massive stars can have on their surroundings and on the future of the materials they produce.



“A major question in astronomy is, where does all the dust in the universe come from? If carbon-rich dust like this survives, it could help us begin to answer that question,” Lau noted.



The James Webb Space Telescope continues to provide unparalleled insights into the cosmos. As it peers into the origins of elements and celestial structures, it brings humanity closer to understanding our place in the universe.



The study is published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad9aa9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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Webb telescope directly observes the origin of carbon in the universe

Astronomers have long sought to find the origin of the...

Could you imagine happening upon an orchid that looks familiar but has a unique difference that makes you wonder if it is a new species? 



That’s exactly what happened during a study at Norfolk Island National Park. This unexpected find sparked a collaborative effort to uncover the orchid’s true identity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-glimpse-into-the-field-the-discovery">A glimpse into the field - the discovery</h2>



While conducting botanical research at Norfolk Island National Park, Dr. Heidi Zimmer, an orchid researcher at the <a href="https://www.anbg.gov.au/cpbr/herbarium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian National Herbarium</a> (ANH), and botanist Dr. Mark Clements were guided by the local expertise of Joel Christian, Mel Wilson, and Allie Andersen. 



In the late afternoon light, the team’s efforts paid off when Dr. Clements spotted a peculiar orchid growing on a tree branch. 



Something about <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/new-orchid-species_cupcake_Adelopetalum-argyropus_credit-Heidi-Zimmer_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the orchid looked different</a>, prompting Dr. Zimmer to collect a sample to take back to the ANH for further study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-new-orchid">Investigating the new orchid</h2>



The orchid was identified as belonging to the genus Adelopetalum, but its exact classification was unclear.



Recognizing its potential as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-technology-will-accelerate-the-pace-of-plant-species-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new species</a>, Zimmer and Clements collaborated with a broader team of experts, including retired ANH botanist David Jones, who served as the lead researcher. 



“This was a wonderfully collaborative project with folks from Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island, and Australian botanists and taxonomists all working together,” enthused Dr. Zimmer, 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-new-adelopetalum-orchid">Analyzing the new Adelopetalum orchid</h2>



To determine whether this orchid was indeed a new species, the team began an exhaustive process. 



They compared the Norfolk Island specimen to descriptions of orchid species in scientific journals, specimens housed in the Australian National Herbarium - which contains approximately 75,000 specimens - and orchids preserved in herbaria across Australia and internationally.



This analysis utilized both physical specimens and digitized collections, allowing the researchers to examine a vast array of potential matches.



The research revealed a surprising result: the orchid species previously identified as Adelopetalum argyropus was not a single species but three distinct ones.



“We recognized that the Norfolk Island species was different because the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flower</a> did not have a yellow labellum - no giant bright yellow tongue,” explained Dr. Zimmer.



Even for researchers in training, the differences were clear when dissecting the flowers and examining herbarium specimens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-findings-a-new-species">The findings - a new species</h2>



As per taxonomic rules, the species from Norfolk Island retained the name Adelopetalum argyropus because it was the first described, dating back to 1833.



The two newly identified species were named Adelopetalum howense, which was found on Lord Howe Island, and Adelopetalum continentale, which was found on mainland Australia.



The team speculated that these orchids’ seeds, so fine and dust-like, were likely carried by the wind to their distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitats</a>.



This discovery highlights the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the role of natural dispersal mechanisms in shaping biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-publishing-the-discovery-the-description">Publishing the discovery - the description</h2>



The researchers published their findings in Phytotaxa, giving details of the botanical features of the new species.



The paper described the Norfolk Island orchid’s pseudobulbs as “broadly oblong to obconical or turbinate, similar to a cupcake, with shallow grooves and scurfy surfaces from remnants of bracts.” 



These detailed descriptions provide a foundation for further study and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-identifies-4300-types-of-endangered-orchids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>.



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



Orchids are among the plant families most at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/despite-their-incredible-adaptability-orchids-are-disappearing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk of extinction</a>, particularly those confined to habitats that are small in extent.



The three new species face significant threats due to their limited distribution and environmental pressures.



Dr. Zimmer emphasized the importance of naming and describing new species as part of broader conservation efforts. 



“The purpose of naming and describing new orchid species is to build a checklist of Australian orchids so people can conserve them. We think there are risks for these three new species," Dr. Zimmer explains.



"This is because the species on Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands are both confined to small islands and the one on continental Australia was badly impacted by the 2019–2020 bushfires."



This discovery highlights the power of collaboration and the enduring mysteries of nature. It’s a reminder of how much there is still to uncover and protect in our world.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://phytotaxa.mapress.com/pt/article/view/phytotaxa.678.1.9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytotaxa</a>.



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New orchid species discovered resembles a small cupcake

Could you imagine happening upon an orchid that looks familiar...

Archaeologists have uncovered what may be the oldest tools ever used on Earth, and they weren't created by direct human ancestors. 



These ancient artifacts, found in Kenya’s Homa Peninsula - which is dubbed "the cradle of humankind" - date back three million years. 



The tools, consisting of sharpened stone flakes, are believed to have been made by early hominins named Paranthropus, who are considered to be the first pre-human species to walk upright.



This region where these tools were found has long been a treasure trove for discoveries about humanity's beginnings.



It’s where researchers found "Lucy," the fossil of a female&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lucy-could-barely-run-what-does-that-say-about-our-ancestors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australopithecus afarensis</a>,&nbsp;which was a pre-human species that lived over three million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-tools-reveal-human-survival">First tools reveal human survival</h2>



The sharpened stones, part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-made-the-earliest-stone-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oldowan toolkit</a>, were used by early humans to peel and cut fruits, slice vegetables, and butcher animals.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cuny.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">City University of New York</a> confirmed that these tools represent a technological breakthrough that enabled hominins to access new food sources, thus fueling both physical and cognitive evolution.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_Paranthropus-tooth_CBS-news_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_Paranthropus-tooth_CBS-news_1s.webp" alt="Possibly the first tools ever used on Earth, created by ancient hominins who were not direct ancestors of humans. Credit: CBS News/Science Journal" class="wp-image-1956591"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Possibly the first tools ever used on Earth, created by ancient hominins who were not direct ancestors of humans. Credit: CBS News/Science Journal</figcaption></figure>



Lead archaeologist Tom Plummer called the Oldowan toolkit a turning point. 



“In terms of technology, I think the Oldowan technology is the most important technological innovation that ever happened in human history,” he said. 



This innovation paved the way for the development of more complex tools and behaviors, and ultimately shaped the course of human evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-ancestors-didn-t-invent-tools">Human ancestors didn't invent tools</h2>



Plummer told <a href="https://youtu.be/P9Zc2noSsWw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBS News</a> that alongside these tools they also discovered a tooth fossil from an early hominin called Paranthropus - an early hominin that is not a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.



This suggests that advanced tool-making was not a technology created by human ancestors, but one that was copied, then used to dominate early hominins, essentially wiping them off the planet.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-species-of-human-ancestors-literally-crossed-paths-1-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> is an intriguing group of early human relatives that roamed Africa between about 2.7 and 1.2 million years ago. 



These ancient hominins stood out because of their strong, robust features, including large jaws and hefty molar teeth designed for crunching tough, fibrous plants. 



Unlike modern humans, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranthropus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> had relatively small brains, but their skulls were built to handle the heavy chewing required by their diet. 



Scientists have identified several species within this group, such as Paranthropus boisei and Paranthropus robustus, each showcasing unique adaptations that highlight the diversity of our evolutionary family.



Researchers believe that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-was-shaped-by-competition-not-just-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paranthropus</a> lived alongside other early human species, like Homo habilis, occupying a different ecological niche thanks to their specialized eating habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dietary-evolution-began-3-million-years-ago">Dietary evolution began 3 million years ago</h2>



Researchers uncovered ancient hippo bones near the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/400000-year-old-stone-tools-show-technological-adaptations-of-prehistoric-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools</a>, and noted that the bones had distinct cut marks.



These marks confirm that early hominins used their tools for butchery, demonstrating that they could cut and process meat. 



This ability gave them access to a critical food source that enabled them to expand their diet and improve their chances of survival.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_discovery-analysis_Credit-Science_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_discovery-analysis_Credit-Science_1s.webp" alt="(A) Photos of a dorsal flake, ventral flake, and core from Nyayanga next to a principal component analysis based on major technological attributes of Early Stone Age artifact assemblages and a capuchin-derived assemblage. Assemblages are plotted according to principal component 1 (x axis) and principal component 2 (y axis). The Nyayanga assemblage (NYA) falls within the shaded ellipse that represents the 95% confidence interval for Oldowan sites. A scree plot with eigenvalue percentage of variance for principal components 1 through 11, and a loadings plot showing the contribution of each variable are shown to the right. (B) The frequency of cores in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) and photos of two Nyayanga cores (bottom). (C) The frequency of artifacts with percussion damage in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) with photos of a Nyayanga pounded piece. Credit: Science" class="wp-image-1956476"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(A) Photos of a dorsal flake, ventral flake, and core from Nyayanga next to a principal component analysis based on major technological attributes of Early Stone Age artifact assemblages and a capuchin-derived assemblage. Assemblages are plotted according to principal component 1 (x axis) and principal component 2 (y axis). The Nyayanga assemblage (NYA) falls within the shaded ellipse that represents the 95% confidence interval for Oldowan sites. A scree plot with eigenvalue percentage of variance for principal components 1 through 11, and a loadings plot showing the contribution of each variable are shown to the right. (B) The frequency of cores in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) and photos of two Nyayanga cores (bottom). (C) The frequency of artifacts with percussion damage in other Oldowan assemblages compared with those of Nyayanga (table S4) with photos of a Nyayanga pounded piece. Credit: Science</figcaption></figure>



Rick Potts, director of the Smithsonian's human origins program, highlighted the significance of this discovery. 



He noted that such evidence sheds light on the transformative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/476000-year-old-ancient-woodworking-discovery-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journey of human survival</a>, showing how early innovations like tool use played a crucial role in adapting to a challenging environment.



Potts also reflected on how this emphasizes the delicate balance of life and the adaptability required throughout human history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-and-death-of-early-humans">Life and death of early humans</h2>



The famous fossilized skeleton of Lucy was discovered in 1974. She lived over three million years ago and her fossilized remains have provided key insights into early human evolution.



Recent research revealed that Lucy likely died from injuries sustained in a fall from a tree - a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by early hominins as they navigated both arboreal and terrestrial environments.



Anthropologist <a href="https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/anthropology/faculty/jwk5664" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Kappelman</a>, who studied Lucy’s remains, noted her extensive injuries. 



“It is ironic that the fossil at the center of a debate about the role of arborealism in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human evolution</a> likely died from injuries suffered from a fall out of a tree,” he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-innovation-began-6-million-years-ago">Human innovation began 6 million years ago</h2>



The discovery of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/first-tools-on-earth_Oldowan-tools_Paranthropus-tooth_CBS-news_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient tools</a> and fossils in Kenya’s Homa Peninsula has reshaped our understanding of human evolution.



While modern humans (Homo sapiens) emerged about 300,000 years ago, the roots of innovation extend far further back in time, according to Rick Potts, a leading expert. 



These findings suggest that key behaviors, like tool-making, didn’t happen quickly but evolved gradually over a very long period of six million years.



This challenges earlier views that technological and cognitive milestones occurred in a shorter timeframe. Instead, it reveals that early hominins developed critical skills much earlier, and this laid the foundation for later advances.



Potts emphasized how this extended timeline helps us appreciate the complexity and depth of our evolutionary journey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-early-tools-shaped-human-evolution">How early tools shaped human evolution</h2>



The discoveries in Kenya highlight how early technological innovations by hominins were pivotal in shaping humanity's evolutionary path. 



The Oldowan tools, that date back three million years, represent one of the earliest examples of humans using technology to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-ancestors-woodworking-sophisticated-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solve problems</a>.



These tools allowed early humans to process food, such as cutting meat and peeling fruits, which significantly expanded their diet and improved their ability to survive in challenging environments.



Tom Plummer emphasized the far-reaching impact of these innovations, and described the Oldowan tools as a cornerstone of human progress. 



These tools not only helped early hominins adapt to their environment but also set the stage for further advances in technology and survival strategies.



These findings remind us of the resilience and ingenuity of our ancestors, traits that have defined human history. The ability to innovate and adapt has always been central to our survival and continues to shape the future of humanity.



The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abo7452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Discovery: First tools ever used on Earth were not made by early humans

Archaeologists have uncovered what may be the oldest tools ever...

A spacecraft named BepiColombo is currently zipping by planet Mercury, making a very close flyby and snapping incredible high-definition photos of our scorching hot solar system companion.



Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/layer-diamonds-nine-miles-thick-discovered-on-planet-mercury-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smallest in our solar system</a>, packing some pretty extreme features into its tiny frame. It zips around the Sun in just 88 Earth days, making its year the shortest of all the planets. 



Despite being so close to the Sun, Mercury has a surprisingly large core made mostly of iron, which creates a strong magnetic field. 



The surface is covered in craters, similar to our Moon, because it doesn't have much of an atmosphere to protect it from meteoroids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bepicolombo-makes-another-close-mercury-flyby">BepiColombo makes another close Mercury flyby</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-life-on-mercury-possibly-in-the-planets-craters-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercury’s stark landscape</a> received another visitor on January 8, 2025. The ESA/JAXA BepiColombo spacecraft, on its sixth flyby of the planet, swept just a few hundred miles above the north pole, capturing fresh glimpses of the cratered terrain. 



Morning light soon bathed Mercury’s northern plains, revealing icy floors in areas that never see the Sun. Scientists hope these newly gathered snapshots will shed more light on the composition of this rocky body.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Mercury_s_sunlit_north_viewed_by_M-CAM_1_with_labels" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Mercury_sunlit-north-pole_M-CAM_BepiColombo_ESA_1s.webp" alt="BepiColombo Monitoring camera 1 (M-CAM 1) took this photo at 07:12 CET, when the spacecraft was about 1427 km from the planet’s surface. The spacecraft’s closest approach of 295 km took place on the planet's night side at 06:59 CET. The image shows that large regions of Mercury's heavily cratered surface are smoothed over by lava from volcanic eruptions. This smoothing over is visible inside the 290 km-wide crater at the right of the image, called Mendelssohn. While its outer rim is still visible, it has been largely filled by the same smooth material that makes up the surrounding plains. Smaller, more recent impact craters dot the otherwise smooth crater. Credit: ESA/JAXA" class="wp-image-1956588"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BepiColombo Monitoring camera 1 (M-CAM 1) took this photo at 07:12 CET, when the spacecraft was about 1427 km from the planet’s surface. Credit: ESA/JAXA</figcaption></figure>



The maneuver was the last in a series of gravity assists that will help BepiColombo enter orbit around Mercury in late 2026. At 06:59 CET, the craft skimmed just 295 miles above the surface on the planet’s night side. 



Around seven minutes later, it passed above the pole and caught remarkable views of the sunlit north. Shortly after this milestone, Frank Budnik, <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/BepiColombo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BepiColombo</a> Flight Dynamics Manager, underlined the success of the operation.



“This is the first time that we performed two flyby campaigns back-to-back. This flyby happens a bit more than a month after the previous one. Based on our preliminary assessment, everything proceeded smoothly and flawlessly," Budnik explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bepicolombo-sees-mercury-s-polar-shadows">BepiColombo sees Mercury’s polar shadows</h2>



Scientists were excited to see evidence of chilly, forever-shadowed craters near the north pole. These cavities, including Prokofiev, Kandinsky, Tolkien, and Gordimer, are among the coldest places in the Solar System. 



Despite Mercury’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-mercury-is-still-shrinking-and-now-has-more-wrinkles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proximity to the Sun</a>, the crater floors remain dark and frigid. Some studies have suggested the presence of frozen water in these regions. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Mercury_s_shadowy_north_pole_revealed_by_M-CAM_1_with_labels" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Mercury_shadowy-north-pole_M-Cam_BepiColombo_ESA_1s.webp" alt="BepiColombo's M-CAM 1 took this long-exposure photograph of Mercury's north pole at 07:07 CET, when the spacecraft was about 787 km from the planet’s surface. The spacecraft’s closest approach of 295 km took place on the planet's night side at 06:59 CET. In this view, Mercury’s terminator, the boundary between day and night, divides the planet in two. Along the terminator, just to the left of the solar array, the sunlit rims of craters Prokofiev, Kandinsky, Tolkien and Gordimer can be seen, including some of their central peaks. Credit: ESA/JAXA" class="wp-image-1956586"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BepiColombo's M-CAM 1 took this long-exposure photograph of Mercury's north pole at 07:07 CET, when the spacecraft was about 787 km from the planet’s surface. </figcaption></figure>



BepiColombo will investigate whether that possibility holds true once it settles into its final orbit.



Nearby stretches of volcanic plains called Borealis Planitia captured attention in one of the monitoring camera (M-CAM) images. 



Extensive lava flows roughly 3.7 billion years ago paved this part of Mercury’s crust, burying older impact features like the Henri and Lismer craters. Wrinkles scattered across the plains likely formed as the interior cooled over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-memories-and-ancient-impacts">Volcanic memories and ancient impacts</h2>



Another close-up featured the Mendelssohn crater. Its outer rim is barely visible because past volcanic floods leveled the surface <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bepicolombo-spacecraft-reveals-mercurys-magnetic-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">over countless millennia</a>. Just a handful of smaller, younger craters break up the otherwise smooth ground.



Farther along, the Rustaveli crater appears to have undergone a similar process, joining a long list of aged and partially filled depressions. 



The towering Caloris basin also makes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bepicolombo-mission-captures-mercury-in-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a striking appearance</a>. Spanning more than 900 miles, it is the largest known impact site on Mercury. 



Lines stretching away from the basin mark the impact’s immense influence on the planet’s crust. A bright patch of lava seems to link with a trough below it, prompting questions about the direction of that molten flow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-surface-bright-surprises">Dark surface, bright surprises</h2>



Mercury is much darker than our Moon. Its surface reflects less light, which makes bright patches on fresh craters and volcanic deposits stand out. 



Those more radiant regions often connect to younger events, such as volcanic eruptions or recent impacts.



A camera shot taken by <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2018/10/BepiColombo_monitoring_cameras" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">M-CAM 2</a> highlights the Nathair Facula, an expansive fallout deposit from Mercury’s most powerful recorded volcanic explosion. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Lava_and_debris_brighten_Mercury_s_surface_with_labels" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Mercury_lava-north-pole_M-Cam_BepiColombo_ESA_1s.webp" alt="BepiColombo Spacecraft sees bright patch near Mercury's upper edge in this image is the Nathair Facula, the aftermath of the largest volcanic explosion on Mercury. At its centre is a volcanic vent of around 40 km across that has been the site of at least three major eruptions. The explosive volcanic deposit is at least 300 km in diameter. Credit: ESA/JAXA" class="wp-image-1956584"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">BepiColombo Spacecraft sees bright patch near Mercury's upper edge in this image is the Nathair Facula, the aftermath of the largest volcanic explosion on Mercury. Credit: ESA/JAXA</figcaption></figure>



In the middle is a vent around 25 miles across. Scientists believe at least three large eruptions shaped this blast zone, which stretches about 186 miles across. 



Nearby is the Fonteyn crater, formed a few hundred million years ago. Its youth becomes obvious from the pale debris that fans out in all directions.



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



European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) Director General Josef Aschbacher revealed the first image during his Annual Press Briefing on January 9, 2025. 



Once BepiColombo starts orbiting Mercury, mission teams aim to use data from multiple instruments to zero in on how these features formed. 



Analysts want to determine if water ice truly exists in the polar shadows and figure out whether the big lava flows advanced into Caloris basin or spread out of it.



The quest to understand Mercury’s makeup includes measuring old and new surface areas with advanced spectrometers. 



Team members look forward to breaking down mineral clues about how the planet cooled and contracted over billions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-countdown-to-orbit">Final countdown to orbit</h2>



Observers see this recent pass as the final time BepiColombo’s monitoring cameras will capture such close-range shots. After all, the modules that house these cameras will separate from the main orbiters by late 2026. 



The ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/BepiColombo/Mercury_Planetary_Orbiter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercury Planetary Orbiter</a> and the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/BepiColombo/Mercury_Magnetospheric_Orbiter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAXA Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter</a> will then begin their core studies. That work will include collecting data on the planet’s magnetic field, geology, and surface chemistry.



“BepiColombo's main mission phase may only start two years from now, but all six of its flybys of Mercury have given us invaluable new information about the little-explored planet," explains Geraint Jones, BepiColombo's Project Scientist at ESA.



"In the next few weeks, the BepiColombo team will work hard to unravel as many of Mercury's mysteries with the data from this flyby as we can,” Jones concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-mercury-and-bepicolombo-matter">Why Mercury and BepiColombo matter</h2>



Scientists look ahead to those orbits with great anticipation. They want to put to rest a few long-held questions about Mercury’s hidden polar ices, puzzling volcanic traces, and unexpectedly dark crust. 



The spacecraft’s results should give researchers a better sense of how the planet formed and evolved. All eyes remain on the little world with big questions waiting to be answered.



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Spacecraft captures high-def images of Mercury during very close flyby

A spacecraft named BepiColombo is currently zipping by planet Mercury,...

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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

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

“This dog is very, very, very bonded with me,&#8221; Kris explained. &#8220;As soon as I left, he was glued to the window, looking to see where I went. And in the morning, he was super excited to see me.” Frosting surely didn&#8217;t understand Kris would only be gone for a measly few hours. Photo Credit: Kristofer Goldsmith / Twitter

Glued To The Window