Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, which is located about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. NGC 3783 is also the most prominent of a galaxy group (by the same name) that contains 47 galaxies. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-groups">Galaxy groups</h2>



“Like galaxy clusters, galaxy groups are aggregates of gravitationally bound galaxies. Galaxy groups, however, are less massive and contain fewer members than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clusters</a> do: where galaxy clusters can contain hundreds or even thousands of constituent galaxies, galaxy groups do not typically include more than 50,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The Milky Way is actually part of a galaxy group, known as the Local Group, which contains two other large galaxies (Andromeda and the Triangulum galaxy), as well as several dozen satellite and dwarf galaxies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hd-101274-a-blue-giant-star">HD 101274: A blue giant star</h2>



The bright object that appears to the right of the galaxy is the star HD 101274. “The perspective in this image makes the star and the galaxy look like close companions, but this is an illusion. HD 101274 lies only about 1,530 light-years from Earth, meaning it is about 85 thousand times closer than NGC 3783,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



The star is part of the NGC 3766 cluster, which is sometimes referred to as the Pearl Cluster, an open cluster known for its richness in bright stars and its relatively young age.



HD 101274 is categorized as a blue giant star, characterized by its high temperature and luminosity. 



Blue giants are massive stars that have left the main sequence phase of stellar evolution and are burning helium or heavier elements in their cores. These stars are known for their short lifespans relative to smaller stars due to their rapid consumption of nuclear fuel.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stars</a> like HD 101274 are important for astronomers because they help in studying the properties of stellar populations in clusters and the dynamics of stellar evolution in different environments. 



The spectral and photometric observations of such stars can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of their atmospheres, internal structures, and the processes occurring within and around them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-central-region-of-ngc-3783">Bright central region of NGC 3783</h2>



One of the most interesting aspects of NGC 3783 is that it harbors an active galactic nucleus, meaning its central region is exceptionally luminous, likely due to the presence of a supermassive black hole. This black hole is actively accreting material, which emits a substantial amount of radiation as it spirals inward and heats up.



The galaxy is particularly known for its bright central region and has been studied extensively in the ultraviolet and X-ray light spectra to understand better the properties of the accretion disk around the black hole and the complex dynamics of the material surrounding it. These studies are crucial for understanding the physics of active galactic nuclei and the role they play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>.



According to ESA, NGC 3783 is a&nbsp;Type I Seyfert galaxy. “In this image it is recorded by Hubble in incredible detail, from its glowing central bar to its narrow, winding arms and the dust threaded through them, thanks to five separate images taken in different wavelengths of light," noted ESA.



“In fact, the galactic center is bright enough to Hubble that it exhibits diffraction spikes, normally only seen on stars such as HD 101274.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ngc-3783-galaxy-group">More about the NGC 3783 galaxy group</h2>



The NGC 3783 group is part of the larger Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster, which itself is a massive collection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and galaxy clusters located primarily in the constellations of Hydra and Centaurus.



The NGC 3783 group consists of several galaxies that are gravitationally bound and interact with each other. These interactions can influence the galaxies' evolution through mechanisms like tidal forces and merger events, which can trigger star formation, fuel central black holes, and reshape the galaxies' structures.



Studying groups like the NGC 3783 group helps astronomers understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> evolve together in a common gravitational environment, offering insights into the dynamics and evolution of structures on cosmic scales. 



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a 9.5-mile section of Pangong Lake on the western end of the Tibetan Plateau. The image was captured on by a crew member onboard the International Space Station.&nbsp;



“In this winter scene, a sheet of cracked ice tops part of the lake,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “On the left side, open water appears blue. Shallow water offshore of a delta, formed by a small, winding river, appears green."



"Parallel lines along the coastlines of bays are visible in the high-resolution version of this image. These lines indicate raised beaches, which formed in the past when lake levels were higher.”



NASA pointed out that several roads cut across the landscape, including one with switchbacks that ascends a steep slope. "These roads facilitate tourist travel from both India and China.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-birds-at-pangong-lake-nbsp">Migratory birds at Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake and its surroundings are home to numerous bird species, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-burn-unexpected-amounts-of-protein/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a>. Visitors can spot various waterfowl and waders that are rarely seen elsewhere.



“During the summer, species such as bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks attract bird watchers to the lake, which is a major breeding ground for migrating birds,” said NASA.



Pangong Lake is one of the few places in India where the endangered black-necked crane is found during its breeding season. 



Ruddy shelduck and brown-headed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gulls</a> are also frequently spotted around the lake. The ruddy shelduck is known for its striking orange-brown body and creamy white head, while the brown-headed gulls are often seen flying or swimming in the lake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pangong-lake-nbsp">Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-are-rising-unexpectedly-fast-on-the-tibetan-plateau/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, extending from India to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. It is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic setting, with the lake lying at an elevation of about 4,350 meters.



One of the most distinctive features of Pangong Lake is its changing colors, ranging from shades of blue to green and even red, influenced by the sky's reflection and the lake's mineral content.



This saline water lake is approximately 134 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide at its broadest point. Despite its considerable size, Pangong Lake is relatively shallow. 



The lake gained additional popularity after being featured in several Indian films - most notably the Bollywood hit "3 Idiots." Its remote location requires a permit for visitors, especially due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control between India and China.



Despite the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding its location, Pangong Lake remains a favorite among tourists for its unparalleled natural beauty and serene environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-altitude-lakes">High-altitude lakes</h2>



High-altitude lakes are unique bodies of water found at elevations typically above 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in mountain ranges like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, Andes, and Rockies. 



These lakes are formed either by glacial activity, where glaciers erode the earth to create depressions that fill with melted snow and rainwater, or when natural dams created by landslides or moraines trap water in valleys.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environments">Extreme environments</h3>



The conditions at high altitudes make these lakes distinct in several ways. The climate is typically colder and harsher, with significant temperature variations between day and night. 



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of 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">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-habitats">Critical habitats</h3>



Biologically, high-altitude lakes often have limited biodiversity because only certain types of plants and animals can tolerate the cold temperatures and lower oxygen levels in the water. 



Despite this, these lakes are crucial habitats for some unique species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They also serve as important indicators of climate change, as variations in their water levels and temperatures can reflect environmental shifts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-high-altitude-lakes">Significance of high-altitude lakes </h3>



Lakes at high altitudes are often clear and pristine, due to the low density of human populations in these areas and minimal industrial activity, making them significant for ecological studies and attractive for tourism. 



However, they are sensitive ecosystems, and increased tourist activity brings challenges like pollution and habitat disruption.



High-altitude lakes are not only beautiful and scientifically significant but also hold cultural importance for local communities, often considered sacred and associated with historical and spiritual significance.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the aftermath of devastating floods in the Valencia region of Eastern Spain.&nbsp;



On October 29, 2024, torrential rainfall unleashed nearly a year’s worth of precipitation in just eight hours, leading to catastrophic flash floods that affected a vast area from Málaga to Valencia. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flash-floods-in-valencia">Flash floods in Valencia </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-floods-are-set-to-become-much-more-common-in-the-u-s/">Floodwaters</a> submerged entire neighborhoods and agricultural lands. Many roads and infrastructure were overwhelmed almost instantly, stranding vehicles and prompting widespread evacuations. Water levels rose faster than emergency services could respond.



One resident of Paiporta, near Valencia, told the BBC that when the water started to rise it was "like a tsunami wave."



“In a matter of minutes, flash floods caused by heavy downpours in eastern Spain swept away everything in their path. With no time to react, people were trapped in vehicles, homes and businesses,” reported the Associated Press.



More than 200 people were killed and thousands of people were rescued. According to SOS Desaparecidos, as many as 1,300 people remained unaccounted for on Friday, three days after the floods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnitude-of-the-tragedy-nbsp">Magnitude of the tragedy&nbsp;</h2>



Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister for Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, said: “The fact that we can’t give a number of the missing persons indicates the magnitude of the tragedy.”&nbsp;



Some areas, including the Spanish town of Alfafar, are completely cut off from communication.&nbsp;



Juan Ramón Adsuara, the mayor of Alfafar, said the aid isn't nearly enough for residents trapped in an "extreme situation."



"There are people living with corpses at home. It's very sad. We are organizing ourselves, but we are running out of everything," Adsuara told reporters. "We go with vans to Valencia, we buy and we come back, but here we are totally forgotten."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-warning-was-not-issued-in-time">Government warning was not issued in time</h2>



On Tuesday morning, Spain's meteorological agency Aemet warned that torrential rains were forecast for the region of Valencia, before issuing a&nbsp; "maximum red alert.”



Carlos Mazon, Valencia’s regional president, said the government sent out an SMS alert reserved for the “worst possible scenario.” But according to a report from CNN, that alert was sent hours too late.



“By 5 p.m., Valencia’s emergency services were swamped by hundreds of pleas for help throughout the region,” wrote Atika Shubert, a CNN Senior International Correspondent.



“It was at 8 p.m. that cell phones finally buzzed with the public alert telling residents to stay indoors. Much too little, much too late, even for those downstream of the raging water who might otherwise have had time to prepare.”



The BBC also noted that many people have questioned the timing of the government's warning, which arrived more than 12 hours after Aemet issued its first red alert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-in-a-warming-climate">Extreme weather in a warming climate</h2>



The deadly floods in Valencia were primarily caused by an extreme weather event that brought record-breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-events-are-interconnected-around-the-globe/">rainfall</a>. The intense downpour was fueled by unusually warm Mediterranean Sea temperatures, which increased moisture in the atmosphere and intensified the rainfall.&nbsp;



Climate experts link this phenomenon to climate change, as warmer seas lead to more frequent, severe storms. The combination of heavy rain and the region's limited drainage capacity led to flash flooding, overwhelming local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/">infrastructure</a>.



Rising ocean temperatures are largely driven by increased greenhouse gases that trap more heat in the atmosphere. Oceans absorb about 90% of this excess heat, leading to warmer waters, especially near the surface.&nbsp;



This warming disrupts marine ecosystems, contributing to coral bleaching and altering habitats for species like fish and marine mammals.



With the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">climate crisis</a> intensifying, experts warn that warmer ocean temperatures will heighten the risk of rapid, destructive rainfall events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-deadliest-flood-in-europe-this-century-nbsp">Second-deadliest flood in Europe this century&nbsp;</h2>



Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the disaster was the second-deadliest flood in Europe this century and that Spain was carrying out its largest deployment of army and security force personnel in peacetime. The country was sending 5,000 soldiers and 5,000 police officers to the eastern region of Valencia on Saturday.



Four days after the devastating floods, rescuers are still searching for bodies. Thousands of volunteers are helping to clean up the thick mud that covers streets, homes, and businesses in the hardest-hit towns.&nbsp;



Prime Minister Sanchez responded to people who expressed they feel abandoned with no help or communication in the days following the tragic flooding.



“I am aware the response is not enough, there are problems and severe shortages… towns buried by mud, desperate people searching for their relatives.”



"For those who at this moment are still looking for their loved ones, the whole of Spain weeps with you."



According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/">ESA</a>, the Copernicus Emergency Rapid Mapping Service has been activated to provide satellite imagery that can support rescue and recovery efforts.



Image Credit: USGS, processed by ESA&nbsp;



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Valencia floods: A tragedy fueled by extreme weather

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 Southern Observatory (ESO) features the Dark Wolf Nebula, located around 5,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Scorpius.



According to ESO, this image of the dark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-ring-nebula-as-it-has-never-been-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> creates the illusion of a wolf-like silhouette against a colorful cosmic backdrop. 



“This image takes up an area in the sky equivalent to four full Moons, but is actually part of an even larger nebula called Gum 55. If you look closely, the wolf could even be a werewolf, its hands ready to grab unsuspecting bystanders,” noted <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-nebulae-nbsp">Dark nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



Dark nebulae are dense regions in space filled with gas and dust that absorb visible light, making them appear as dark patches against brighter backgrounds.&nbsp;



Unlike emission or reflection nebulae, dark nebulae do not glow on their own. Instead, they obstruct and obscure the light from stars and other objects lying behind them.&nbsp;



This characteristic makes them challenging to observe using visible-light telescopes, as they absorb and scatter light rather than reflecting or emitting it.&nbsp;



However, when viewed in infrared, where their obscuring effect is reduced, dark nebulae reveal intricate details about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular clouds</a> they contain.



According to ESO, astronomers study these clouds of frozen dust because they often contain new stars in the making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-wolf-nebula-nbsp">Dark Wolf Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Dark Wolf Nebula is part of a larger complex known as the Lupus Molecular Cloud, one of several significant star-forming regions close to Earth.&nbsp;



Inside of dark nebulae, the conditions are prime for star formation. The dense gas and dust clump together under gravitational forces, and as the clouds contract, they heat up, eventually igniting nuclear fusion and forming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new stars</a>.



The Dark Wolf Nebula is known for revealing young, low-mass stars, or T Tauri stars, which are in the early stages of their evolution. These stars are still surrounded by disks of material that may eventually form new planets.



This nebula is typically studied in infrared, which allows scientists to look beyond the obscuring dust to observe the processes of star formation.&nbsp;



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



Scorpius is one of the most recognizable constellations in the sky. It resembles a scorpion with a long, curved tail and stinger.&nbsp;



Located in the southern sky, Scorpius is especially visible during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



The constellation is often associated with the story of Orion in Greek mythology. According to legend, the scorpion was sent by the goddess Artemis to kill Orion, the great hunter, either as punishment for his arrogance or to protect her animals, depending on the version of the tale.&nbsp;



The gods later placed both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a> and Scorpius in the sky, but in opposite parts of the heavens so they would never be seen together - as Scorpius rises in the east and Orion sets in the west.



Scorpius contains several notable stars and deep-sky objects. Its brightest star, Antares, is a red supergiant often referred to as the "Heart of the Scorpion" due to its reddish hue and central position.&nbsp;



Antares is one of the largest visible stars in the sky and has a luminosity tens of thousands of times greater than that of our Sun.&nbsp;



Scorpius is located close to the core of the Milky Way, making it a rich region for star clusters and nebulae. Among these are the Butterfly Cluster and the Ptolemy Cluster, both of which are visible to the naked eye under dark skies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-dark-wolf-nebula">Image of the Dark Wolf Nebula </h2>



“This image shows in spectacular detail how the dark wolf stands out against the glowing star-forming clouds behind it,” noted ESO.



“The colorful clouds are built up mostly of hydrogen gas and glow in reddish tones excited by the intense UV radiation from the newborn stars within them.”



The picture was created from images taken at different times. Each of the images has a filter that makes a different color of light visible.&nbsp;



Observations of the Dark Wolf Nebula provide astronomers with valuable information about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of stars</a> and the environments in which they form.



The image was captured by the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at ESO’s Paranal Observatory in Chile.



Image Credit: ESO/VPHAS+ team



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Dark Wolf Nebula in the constellation Scorpius

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features an incredible new image of the Crab Nebula in bright neon colors. 



“The unusual image was produced by combining data from telescopes spanning nearly the entire electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



Colored in red, the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) provided information about the nebula gathered in the radio regime.



NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope took infrared images, which appear yellow, while the NASA/ESA <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-captures-another-cosmic-masterpiece-in-galaxy-ngc-2217/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope provided images made in optical wavelengths, colored in green.&nbsp;



Blue colors represent ultraviolet observations made by ESA’s XMM-Newton telescope, and the purple colors are X-ray radiation data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-crab-nebula-nbsp">About the Crab Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Crab Nebula, located in the constellation Taurus, contains the remnants of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova explosion</a> first observed on Earth in 1054 AD. This explosion was recorded by Chinese astronomers and possibly by Native American rock art.&nbsp;



The nebula spans about 11 light-years across and lies approximately 6,500 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-crab-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studied objects</a> in the sky, largely due to its status as a bright and dynamic supernova remnant.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crab-pulsar">The Crab Pulsar</h2>



The Crab Nebula contains a pulsar at its center, which is a rapidly rotating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-spinning-neutron-star-completely-defies-our-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a> that emits pulses of radiation. This pulsar, known as the Crab Pulsar, spins about 30 times per second and is a significant source of gamma rays and other forms of high-energy radiation.&nbsp;



The nebula itself is a complex structure of filaments and synchrotron radiation. The filaments are remnants of the original star's outer layers, while the synchrotron radiation emerges from electrons spiraling in the magnetic fields produced by the pulsar.



“Surrounding the pulsar lies a mix of material; some of it was originally expelled from the star before it went supernova, and the rest was ejected during the explosion itself,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



“Fast-moving winds of particles fly off from the neutron star, energizing the dust and gas around it. These different layers and intricacies of the nebula can be observed in all of the different wavelengths of light.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crab-nebula-observation-nbsp">Crab Nebula observation&nbsp;</h2>



Throughout its history, the Crab Nebula has provided critical insights into the processes of stellar death, the behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pulsars-are-helping-astronomers-pinpoint-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pulsars</a>, and the mechanics of supernova remnants.&nbsp;



Its continuous observation has revealed changes over time, such as the expansion of its filaments and variations in its brightness, offering a dynamic laboratory for astrophysical studies.



Overall, the Crab Nebula is a highly energetic and object, providing valuable insights into the processes following a supernova explosion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-nebulae">Fascinating facts about nebulae</h2>



Nebulae are some of the most breathtaking and intriguing structures in the universe. They are vast clouds of gas and dust, often considered stellar nurseries where new stars are born. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-of-nebulae">Colors of nebulae </h3>



One of the most fascinating aspects of nebulae is their ability to glow in different colors. This occurs because they either reflect the light of nearby stars or emit light due to the ionization of gases within them, particularly hydrogen. 



Some nebulae, like the famous Orion Nebula, are visible to the naked eye and serve as one of the nearest regions of active star formation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae">Planetary nebulae </h3>



Stars are born in dense regions of nebulae, and when they die, some will expel their outer layers, creating stunning structures known as planetary nebulae. The colorful clouds left behind can shine brightly for thousands of years. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-size">Massive size</h3>



Another amazing fact is that some nebulae are so vast that light can take years to travel from one side to the other, stretching across hundreds of light-years.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-remnants">Star remnants </h3>



Perhaps even more mind-boggling is the fact that nebulae are the remnants of previous generations of stars. Supernova explosions of massive stars can create these glowing clouds of gas and dust, seeding the cosmos with the elements necessary for the formation of new stars and planets.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, G. Dubner (IAFE, CONICET-University of Buenos Aires) et al.; A. Loll et al.; T. Temim et al.; F. Seward et al.; VLA/NRAO/AUI/NSF; Chandra/CXC; Spitzer/JPL-Caltech; XMM-Newton/ESA; and Hubble/STScI



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Crab Nebula: The remains of a massive star explosion

Phytoplankton transform the Baltic Sea. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a phytoplankton bloom in the Baltic Sea off the coast of southeast Sweden.

While the photograph shows a region of the sea between the islands of Öland and Gotland, the extent of the late-summer bloom is actually much larger. 

Vibrant phytoplankton blooms appear in the Baltic Sea every summer, and their swirling patterns shaped by ocean currents and eddies are often captured in satellite images. Phytoplankton transform the Baltic Sea

The specific type of phytoplankton involved in this particular bloom has not been tested, but experts report that it is likely to be an ancient type of marine bacteria known as cyanobacteria.

The natural-color image was obtained on August 15, 2020 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.

The Baltic Sea is an arm of the <a title="Atlantic Ocean" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_Ocean">Atlantic Ocean</a>, enclosed by <a title="Denmark" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denmark">Denmark</a>, <a title="Estonia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estonia">Estonia</a>, <a title="Finland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland">Finland</a>, <a title="Latvia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latvia">Latvia</a>, <a title="Lithuania" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithuania">Lithuania</a>, <a title="Sweden" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden">Sweden</a>, northeast <a title="Germany" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany">Germany</a>, <a title="Poland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poland">Poland</a>, <a title="Russia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russia">Russia</a> and the <a title="North European Plain" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_European_Plain">North and Central European Plain</a>.

The sea stretches from <a title="53rd parallel north" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/53rd_parallel_north">53°N</a> to <a title="66th parallel north" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/66th_parallel_north">66°N</a> <a title="Latitude" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latitude">latitude</a> and from <a title="10th meridian east" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/10th_meridian_east">10°E</a> to <a title="30th meridian east" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/30th_meridian_east">30°E</a> <a title="Longitude" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longitude">longitude</a>. A <a class="mw-redirect" title="Marginal sea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marginal_sea">marginal sea</a> of the Atlantic, with limited water exchange between the two water bodies, the Baltic Sea drains through the <a class="mw-redirect" title="Danish Straits" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danish_Straits">Danish Straits</a> into the <a title="Kattegat" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kattegat">Kattegat</a> by way of the <a title="Øresund" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%98resund">Øresund</a>, <a title="Great Belt" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Belt">Great Belt</a> and <a title="Little Belt" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Belt">Little Belt</a>. It includes the <a title="Gulf of Bothnia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Bothnia">Gulf of Bothnia</a>, the <a class="mw-redirect" title="Bay of Bothnia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_of_Bothnia">Bay of Bothnia</a>, the <a title="Gulf of Finland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Finland">Gulf of Finland</a>, the <a title="Gulf of Riga" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Riga">Gulf of Riga</a> and the <a class="mw-redirect" title="Bay of Gdańsk" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_of_Gda%C5%84sk">Bay of Gdańsk</a>.

The <a title="Baltic Proper" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltic_Proper">Baltic Proper</a> is bordered on its northern edge, at the latitude <a title="60th parallel north" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/60th_parallel_north">60°N</a>, by the <a title="Åland Islands" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%85land_Islands">Åland Islands</a> and the <a title="Gulf of Bothnia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Bothnia">Gulf of Bothnia</a>, on its northeastern edge by the <a title="Gulf of Finland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Finland">Gulf of Finland</a>, on its eastern edge by the <a title="Gulf of Riga" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_of_Riga">Gulf of Riga</a>, and in the west by the <a title="Sweden" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweden">Swedish</a> part of the southern Scandinavian Peninsula.

The Baltic Sea is connected by <a title="Canal" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canal">artificial waterways</a> to the <a title="White Sea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Sea">White Sea</a> via the <a class="mw-redirect" title="White Sea-Baltic Canal" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Sea-Baltic_Canal">White Sea-Baltic Canal</a> and to the <a title="German Bight" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Bight">German Bight</a> of the <a title="North Sea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Sea">North Sea</a> via the <a title="Kiel Canal" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kiel_Canal">Kiel Canal</a>.

Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 

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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

&nbsp;

Phytoplankton transform the Baltic Sea

Ever wondered about the fish you see leaping across rivers with a furious determination? These diligent creatures, including salmon and similar species, have one thing in common. They all face a significant life decision early on - whether to stay in the river or migrate to the sea and then return to procreate.



This choice is about survival and it's a tough one, as both paths come with their unique set of challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmon-migrating-to-the-open-sea">Salmon migrating to the open sea</h2>



Salmon-like fish, known as salmonids, often choose to either stick around in their birthplace or adapt to the seawater of the open sea, returning to the river to lay their eggs later. 



This branching of strategies impacts how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-fish-swarms-attract-predators-making-them-an-easy-target/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish communities</a> evolve over time, especially when we factor in their interplay with environmental conditions. 



This complex interaction could potentially shape individual traits, leading to a shift in the proportion of fish adopting the different pathways.



Such strategic divergences are not exceptional in the animal kingdom. However, how this sort of divergence affects population evolution is not entirely understood. So, researchers are diving into this topic to unravel the mysteries beneath these aquatic decisions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-residents-or-migrants">Residents or migrants?</h2>



To investigate, a team of researchers led by Jun-nosuke Horita from the Japan Weather Association, and Yuuya Tachiki, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.tmu.ac.jp/english/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokyo Metropolitan University</a>, developed a mathematical model.



The model incorporates known traits of a specific salmonid, the female masu salmon, and explores how populations evolve over time given the availability of alternative strategies.



Female masu salmon have three strategies to choose from. They can remain in the river where they were born (residents), migrate to the sea after a year (early migrants), or venture out into the sea at a later stage of their lives (late migrants). 



For simplicity, the research team modeled the salmon to be either resident or early migrants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmon-size-in-open-sea">Salmon size in open sea</h2>



An intriguing aspect of the model was the inclusion of size distributions. Young salmon that are smaller are more prone to choose migrating over staying put. 



This study built upon known features of salmon demographics, including the number of eggs per individual and their survival rate. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-migratory-paths">Predicting the migratory paths</h2>



The results of the study were significant. The research team observed that under a broad range of parameters, a stable population was maintained. 



Interestingly, they also identified set conditions under which alternative strategies could be triggered. It was found that a river environment unfavorable for survival, coupled with a fertile sea environment, increased the likelihood of salmon migrating. 



When the survival rate of the arduous migration process plunges below a certain threshold, there is a sudden switch which leads to entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-find-new-ways-to-reproduce-in-response-to-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations</a> opting to stay home and become residents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-evolution-and-environmental-changes">Survival, evolution, and environmental changes </h2>



The ability to predict how populations choose different migratory strategies is crucial for understanding eco-evolution.



This knowledge can help us comprehend how changes in our environment can impact the survival of these organisms. The team is hopeful that their work could be applied to assess and forecast how human-induced changes can affect animal populations.



So, the next time you spot a salmon leaping across the river, remember, it's not just a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> going against the flow; it's an individual caught in the intricate web of survival, evolution, and environmental changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salmon-evolving-in-seas">Salmon evolving in seas</h2>



The research has provided some valuable insights into the world of salmonids and their struggle between migrating and staying put. But it also raises questions about the impact of environmental changes on these aquatic beings.



"This model provides several insights into the eco-evolutionary response of the population to environmental change. For example, the increase in survivorship during migration increased the population size and the fraction of migrants as an ecological and evolutionary response, respectively," noted the researchers.



As we continue our journey of exploration and understanding, let's remember that the decisions we make and the actions we take today have a ripple effect on these fragile ecosystems. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://esj-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/1438-390X.12196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Population Ecology</a>.



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How do salmon decide whether to venture out to sea?

Ever wondered about the fish you see leaping across rivers...

A growing body of research suggests that, like humans, animals also adjust their social behaviors as they age.&nbsp;



A special issue of <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/toc/rstb/2024/379/1916" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B</a> recently published 16 studies exploring this topic, with six led by the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leeds</a>. 



The studies reveal how social patterns shift as animals grow older, providing insights into the potential biological and social benefits of these changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-social-engagement-in-aging-red-deer">Less social engagement in aging red deer</h2>



One of the studies focused on red deer on Scotland’s Isle of Rum, particularly on the behavior of older female <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deer-migration-is-driven-by-springtime-vegetation-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deer</a>, or does. As the deer age, they interact less with their peers. This reduction in socialization may help them avoid competition and reduce their risk of parasite infection. 



Josh Firth from the University of Leeds, one of the editors of this special issue, highlighted that such behavior may be widespread across species, as it allows individuals to avoid health risks associated with social interactions.&nbsp;



“These kinds of effects might be expected across societies, where individuals might avoid social interactions as they become more vulnerable to the costs of infection,” Firth explained.



The shift in behavior among aging deer has parallels in human behavior, especially seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when many older adults limited their social activities to avoid exposure to illness.&nbsp;



“Wild animals provide a good model system for considering the costs and benefits of changing social behavior with age,” Firth added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-house-sparrows-lose-social-connections-over-time">House sparrows lose social connections over time</h2>



Another notable study investigated how aging impacts social behavior in house <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sparrows-have-fewer-friends-as-they-age-just-like-most-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sparrows</a>. Research led by Julia Schroeder at <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a>, with additional input from Jamie Dunning, found that older sparrows tend to shrink their social circles. 



“Our study is one of the first to suggest that birds, like mammals, also reduce the size of their social network as they age,” Dunning said. This decline could be influenced by the deaths of peers and the challenges older birds face in forming new bonds.



The research on Lundy Island offered a unique setting, as the isolated population of sparrows has no birds entering or leaving, allowing scientists to monitor each bird’s social connections throughout its life.&nbsp;



According to Schroeder, understanding the dynamics of these aging friendships may shed light on how social patterns evolve among birds and even offer insights into similar behaviors in other species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broad-applications-across-species">Broad applications across species</h2>



These studies go beyond mammals and birds, extending to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a>, which may not immediately come to mind when considering social dynamics. Professor Amanda Bretman’s work with Drosophila fruit flies showed that social environments impact aging even in simpler animals. 



“In humans, a poor social environment can have the same level of impact as smoking or obesity on healthy aging,” Bretman noted. Her team’s research found that social interactions can significantly affect lifespan and aging, even in insects.



Studying the impact of social behavior in fruit flies offers a controlled environment where researchers can observe the mechanics of social aging.&nbsp;



These insights could potentially apply to broader research on aging in humans, helping scientists better understand the underlying processes that link social behaviors and health outcomes across different life stages.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-mechanisms-of-social-aging">Understanding the mechanisms of social aging</h2>



In their studies of fruit flies, Bretman’s team could precisely manipulate the flies’ social surroundings, gaining a deeper look into why animals, and perhaps humans, might adjust social behaviors with age.&nbsp;



The research underscores that the social environment can vary by gender, timing, and social structure. By looking at how even insects adapt their behavior based on social context, scientists hope to reveal fundamental patterns that apply across species, possibly suggesting strategies for promoting healthy social <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/assamese-macaques-show-how-aging-affects-our-social-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-social-aging-in-humans">Implications for social aging in humans</h2>



These findings offer potential insights for human social dynamics as well. Firth noted that animal models are valuable for understanding the roots of social aging in human societies, where shifts in social habits can affect physical and mental health outcomes.&nbsp;



“Animal systems are now widely considered as well placed for developing our fundamental understanding of aging societies,” he explained. Observing animal behavior may provide clues on supporting social connections and minimizing isolation in human populations as they age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions-in-social-aging-research">Future directions in social aging research</h2>



Looking forward, researchers intend to explore the intricacies of social aging further. Schroeder’s team plans to continue studying the life-long social patterns of house sparrows, examining how friendships form and evolve.&nbsp;



The researchers believe that such detailed studies could illuminate the complexity of aging not only in animals but also offer parallels to human aging, as people similarly adapt their social interactions to match their life stage and health needs.



In addition, Bretman’s team is keen to examine how social environments impact health across different life stages in simpler animals. Since insects are easier to study in controlled environments, they can serve as useful models to understand the biological mechanisms that drive social aging, possibly uncovering processes that can apply to more complex animals, including humans.



The breadth of these studies highlights that changing social behaviors with age is a general phenomenon across species. From deer reducing their social interactions to avoid health risks to sparrows experiencing a natural decline in friendships as peers pass on, the social effects of aging are universal.&nbsp;



The insights provided by this special issue reveal that the social consequences of aging are not unique to humans. Instead, they reflect a broader biological principle that has significant implications for understanding both animal and human health across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifespan-is-influenced-more-by-lifestyle-than-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifespan</a>.



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Social aging: What animals can teach us about getting older

A growing body of research suggests that, like humans, animals...

The notion that Mars once teemed with life billions of years ago continues to intrigue scientists. Today, the red planet's cold, dry landscape, stripped of its once-strong magnetic field, poses questions reminiscent of a cosmic forensic investigation.&nbsp;



Researchers are particularly interested in understanding whether Mars was habitable, and if so, during what period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-magnetic-field">Mars' magnetic field</h2>



A research team at Harvard's <a href="https://paleomag.fas.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paleomagnetics Lab</a>, within the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, has been at the forefront of exploring this timeline.&nbsp;



A recent paper in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51092-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a> presents their strongest evidence yet that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-captured-in-true-color-like-youve-never-seen-the-red-planet-before/">Mars</a>' life-protecting magnetic field, or “dynamo,” could have lasted until about 3.9 billion years ago.&nbsp;



This contrasts with older estimates that placed its demise around 4.1 billion years ago, suggesting the dynamo persisted for hundreds of millions of years longer than previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-the-martian-dynamo">Modeling the Martian dynamo</h2>



Leading the study is <a href="https://gsas.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences</a> student Sarah Steele, who, with the help of computer modeling and simulation, has worked to pinpoint the age of Mars' dynamo.&nbsp;



The Martian dynamo, driven by convection within the planet's iron core much like Earth's, could shield the surface from harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amaterasu-extremely-high-energy-cosmic-ray-detected-with-no-clear-source/">cosmic rays</a>, crucial for maintaining a habitable environment.&nbsp;



Steele, along with senior author Roger Fu, a professor of natural sciences, is challenging prevailing theories that Mars' magnetic field weakened early. Their research incorporates simulations of the cooling and magnetization processes in Mars' surface craters.&nbsp;



Previously studied impact basins on the planet are known for their weak magnetic fields, leading to the assumption they were formed after the planet's dynamo had already ceased.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnetic-fields-preserved-in-rock-nbsp">Magnetic fields preserved in rock&nbsp;</h2>



Paleomagnetics, which involves studying ancient magnetic fields preserved in rock, provided the foundation for these assumptions. According to the experts, ferromagnetic minerals within rock align with magnetic fields when heated, and once the rock cools, this alignment is "frozen" in place. 



Such fossilized magnetic signatures can be examined billions of years later, revealing the state of the magnetic environment during the rock's formation.



The weak magnetic signals observed in some Martian craters led researchers to theorize that these features formed in the absence of an active dynamo.&nbsp;



However, Steele's team proposes an alternative explanation: these basins may have formed during a polarity reversal, where the north and south magnetic poles switch places.&nbsp;



These reversals occur periodically on Earth, and simulations indicate that they could account for the weak magnetic fields detected in Martian craters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitable-mars-a-shift-in-perspective-nbsp">Habitable Mars: A shift in perspective&nbsp;</h2>



According to Steele, this finding challenges long-held beliefs about when Mars' dynamo ceased.&nbsp;



“We are basically showing that there may not have ever been a good reason to assume Mars's dynamo shut down early,” she said. This new interpretation builds on the team's earlier work that first questioned the established Martian habitability timeline.



Their previous research involved examining a well-known Martian meteorite, Allan Hills 84001, using an advanced quantum diamond microscope in Fu's lab.&nbsp;



The analysis revealed varying magnetic properties within the rock that hinted at a magnetic field lasting until approximately 3.9 billion years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-planetary-magnetic-fields">Significance of planetary magnetic fields</h2>



Steele acknowledged that challenging a widely accepted theory can be daunting. However, she noted that the planetary research community has been supportive of fresh perspectives.&nbsp;



“We are trying to answer primary, important questions about how everything got to be like it is, even why the entire solar system is the way that it is,” Steele explained. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weak-magnetic-field-may-have-set-the-stage-for-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Magnetic fields</a> play a key role in these explorations, as they offer insights into the deep interiors and the early history of planets.



The potential implications extend beyond Mars. Understanding the longevity and nature of magnetic fields on other planets helps scientists draw parallels and contrasts with Earth’s history.&nbsp;



These insights also inform the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitable-worlds-new-strategy-to-identify-planets-that-may-host-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a> on planets beyond our solar system, suggesting that the presence and persistence of a magnetic field could be vital indicators of a world’s potential to host life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-was-mars-habitable">When was Mars habitable?</h2>



The research by Steele and her team is a testament to how scientific thinking evolves with new data and innovative methodologies.&nbsp;



By re-examining the nature and duration of Mars' magnetic field, they open new paths for understanding the planet's ability to support life billions of years ago.&nbsp;



This deeper exploration of planetary history emphasizes the need for continuous investigation and creative approaches to age-old questions in planetary science.



The findings offer a renewed lens through which to view Mars' ancient environment, ultimately bringing researchers a step closer to deciphering the planet's mysterious past and its implications for life beyond Earth.



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When was Mars habitable? Much more recently than we thought

The notion that Mars once teemed with life billions of...

Dna,Spiral,,Life,Blueprint.,Double,Helix,Structure,,Genetic,Science,Symbol,

Evolution has always been seen as a complex, random, and unpredictable process, shaping life on Earth in ways we could hardly anticipate. 



But what if there's more order to it than chaos? That's exactly what a team of scientists is suggesting in a new study.



This research, led by Professor James McInerney and Dr. Alan Beavan from the School of Life Sciences at the <a href="https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nottingham</a>, hints that evolution might not be as random as we've long thought.



Their research could have big implications for tackling issues like antibiotic resistance, diseases, and even climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-genes-and-the-pangenome">Evolution, genes, and the pangenome</h2>



So, what's this all about? The team analyzed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-the-pangenome-the-clearest-snapshot-ever-taken-of-human-genomic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the pangenome</a> -- the complete set of genes within a species -- to see if evolution follows any predictable paths. 



They wanted to know: Is evolution just a series of accidents, or is there a pattern influenced by a genome's history?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-pangenome">What is the pangenome?</h2>



In simple terms, the pangenome is the complete set of all genes found within a species. 



It includes every gene present in all the different strains or individuals, covering both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-dna-secrets-revealed-by-genomic-time-machine-and-transposable-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common genes</a> shared by everyone (the core genome) and the unique ones found only in some (the accessory genome). 



So even though individual members might have different genetic makeups, the pangenome represents the full genetic diversity that the species has.



Analyzing the pangenome allows researchers to identify which genes are essential for survival and which ones offer specific advantages, opening up possibilities for new medical and environmental applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-computing-power-required">Big computing power required</h2>



The team used a machine learning approach called <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/random-forest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Random Forest</a> to sift through a massive dataset of 2,500 complete genomes from a single bacterial species. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-machine-learning-can-help-us-protect-chimpanzees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Machine learning</a> algorithms like this are great at finding patterns that might be too complex or subtle for humans to detect on their own. 



This wasn't a quick job -- it took several hundred thousand hours of computer processing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-and-gene-families">Evolution and "gene families"</h2>



First up, they created "gene families" from each gene in every genome. "In this way, we could compare like-with-like across the genomes," explained Dr. Maria Rosa Domingo-Sananes from <a href="https://www.ntu.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nottingham Trent University</a>.



Once they had these families sorted out, they focused on the genes and gene families inside the genomes.



"We found that some gene families never turned up in a genome when a particular other gene family was already there," said Dr. Domingo-Sananes. 



"And on other occasions, some genes were very much dependent on a different gene family being present."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-gene-ecosystem-driving-evolution">Hidden gene ecosystem driving evolution</h2>



In other words, they discovered an invisible ecosystem where genes either get along or clash with each other, making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-may-be-the-biggest-roadblock-to-solving-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution predictable</a>.



"These interactions between genes make aspects of evolution somewhat predictable and furthermore, we now have a tool that allows us to make those predictions," added Dr. Domingo-Sananes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-paradigm-shift">A paradigm shift</h2>



Professor McInerney, the lead author of the study, is excited about the possibilities, to say the least. 



"The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/missing-law-of-nature-explains-the-evolution-of-everything-that-exists-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implications of this research</a> are nothing short of revolutionary," he said. 



"By demonstrating that evolution is not as random as we once thought, we've opened the door to an array of possibilities in synthetic biology, medicine, and environmental science."



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



This research isn't just about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snails-defy-death-and-revive-through-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding evolution</a> for curiosity's sake. It has real-world implications that could affect our lives in significant ways.



But how could this affect us in practical terms? 



"From this work, we can begin to explore which genes 'support' an antibiotic resistance gene, for example," Dr. Beaven explained.



"Therefore, if we are trying to eliminate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/umbrella-toxin-discovery-may-help-human-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic resistance</a>, we can target not just the focal gene, but we can also target its supporting genes."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-antibiotic-resistance">Fighting antibiotic resistance</h2>



This approach could be a game-changer in the fight against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-increasing-enterococci-looming-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic-resistant bacteria</a>. 



By understanding the network of genes that work together, scientists could develop more effective treatments.



"We can use this approach to synthesize new kinds of genetic constructs that could be used to develop new drugs or vaccines," Dr. Beavan continued. 



"Knowing what we now know has opened the door to a whole host of other discoveries."



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



The study's insights might also help in the fight against climate change. 



By engineering microorganisms that can capture carbon or break down pollutants, we could develop new tools to reduce our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-changes-in-diet-can-greatly-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental footprint</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-personalized-medicine">Advancing personalized medicine</h2>



The predictability of gene interactions could also revolutionize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personalized medicine</a>. 



Imagine doctors being able to predict how a disease might progress in your body based on your genetic makeup, or which treatments would be most effective for you. 



This research could bring us one step closer to that reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-gene-manipulation-and-the-future">Evolution, gene manipulation, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, this new research is shaking up how we think about evolution. Instead of seeing it as a series of random events, the study suggests there's a level of predictability influenced by gene families and genetic history. 



This is obviously a very big deal for many other reasons besides the fact that it upends everything we thought we knew about evolution since Charles Darwin burst onto the scene. 



This discovery means that we might be able to anticipate and even guide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finch-beaks-and-bird-songs-a-new-story-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary changes</a> in ways we never thought possible.



The practical applications are vast. From developing new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance to engineering organisms that can help fight climate change, the possibilities are exciting. 



The idea that we can target not just harmful genes but also their "supporting cast" opens up new avenues in medicine and environmental science.



Overall, this study invites us to rethink some fundamental assumptions about life and evolution. It's not just about chance anymore; there's a pattern and order we can tap into. 



As we learn more, who knows what other doors might open? It's an exciting time to be alive, and an exciting time to be a scientist.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2304934120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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New evolution discovery is being called "nothing short of revolutionary"

Evolution has always been seen as a complex, random, and...

You've heard of childhood obesity and probably know about the rising rates, health implications, and the urgent need to address this worsening problem. New research suggests that something as simple as a text message could make a huge difference in the battle against childhood obesity.



This idea was proposed by Dr. Eliana Perrin, Bloomberg Distinguished Professor of Primary Care at the Johns Hopkins University Schools of Medicine, Nursing and Public Health.



Dr. Perrin co-led a study that shows adding text messaging and digital feedback alongside traditional health counseling can help to prevent obesity in very young children. This, in turn, prevents life-long obesity-related problems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-childhood-obesity-rates">Childhood obesity rates</h2>



About 1 in 5 school-aged children were affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-are-surging-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> in 2017–18, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.



This is a rate that's only increased during and since the pandemic. Solutions to reduce this rate heavily leaned on in-person interventions by pediatric providers. However, these interventions had limited success.



Enter the Greenlight Program, developed by Dr. Perrin and her colleagues. The goal of this intervention is to educate parents about healthy growth in their newborns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-text-messages-to-tackle-obesity">Text messages to tackle obesity</h2>



“We found that parents are eager for more information to help their children grow up healthy, and the vast majority of parents own smartphones,” said Dr. Perrin, who is also a general pediatrician at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/johns-hopkins-childrens-center/what-we-treat/specialties/general-pediatrics/harriet-lane-clinic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harriet Lane Clinic</a>&nbsp;at the Children’s Center.



The researchers recruited nearly 900 parent-infant pairs from newborn nurseries or pediatric primary care clinics across six medical institutions. All babies were 21 days old or younger, born after 34 weeks gestation, at a healthy weight, and with no chronic medical conditions that might <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affect weight gain</a>.



The infant-parent pairs were randomly sorted into two groups. Both groups received Greenlight Program education, with counseling on healthy nutrition and behaviors from their primary care providers. Additionally, they received educational booklets matching the child’s age, with guidance and goal-setting tips.



However, half of the infant-parent pairs received personalized, interactive text messages from a fully automated system. This system provided immediate feedback, tips for addressing challenges, and encouragement based on progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-the-text-messages">Impact of the text messages </h2>



The study meticulously tracked the outcomes of sending text messages on childhood obesity up to the child's second birthday. Researchers collected data on various health metrics, including childhood weight and growth patterns, to assess the program's effectiveness. 



Through innovative data collection methods, such as regular follow-ups and digital monitoring, they were able to capture a comprehensive picture of each child's development. 



The findings revealed a noticeable improvement in maintaining healthy growth trajectories among children who received the personalized text messages.



These results emphasize the powerful potential of integrating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neighborhood-food-access-linked-to-childhood-obesity-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digital communication</a> within traditional healthcare frameworks to combat childhood obesity.



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



The success of this study on text-based obesity interventions opens avenues for future research and application in diverse settings, suggesting that similar approaches can be adapted for older children or other health conditions.



As the prevalence of smartphones continues to rise, leveraging digital technology offers an accessible and scalable solution for real-time health education and intervention. 



This approach not only personalizes healthcare but also empowers parents with the tools they need to provide healthier environments for their children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-victory-of-texts-on-obesity">Digital victory of texts on obesity</h2>



There was a difference between the two groups. Children of parents who received the digital intervention had healthier weight-for-length growth curves over the first two years of life compared to those who had counseling only. The digital intervention also resulted in a 45% relative reduction in obesity.



The researchers concluded that the digital intervention led to healthier weight-for-length paths and decreased obesity incidences. They believe that these digital services were effective, especially in populations at the highest risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dads-diets-have-a-direct-impact-on-childhood-obesity-rates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>.



The “intervention effect” occurred as early as 4 months and continued throughout the two years. This study may be one of the first ever to prevent early childhood obesity, particularly in such a large and diverse group of participants.



“If we can prevent obesity in these children at greatest risk, we can also create better health equity in the future,” said Dr. Perrin. The researchers plan to follow the impacts of their project as the children grow up.



The research was supported by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. Study data were collected and managed using REDCap electronic data capture tools hosted at <a href="https://www.vanderbilt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt University</a> Medical Center and supported by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences/National Institutes of Health.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2825869?guestAccessKey=718ecc07-ada5-431f-a301-60824022ecfb&amp;utm_source=For_The_Media&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=ftm_links&amp;utm_content=tfl&amp;utm_term=110324" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



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Simple text messages could help tackle childhood obesity

You've heard of childhood obesity and probably know about the...

Have you ever thought about the impact neutering might have on your dog's health? If you're a dog owner, chances are this topic has crossed your mind more than once. 



While common belief supports neutering as a way to control the pet population and eliminate certain health risks, there is a side of this story that often remains untold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neutering-and-dog-health">Neutering and dog health</h2>



The intriguing relationship between neutering and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neutering-linked-to-serious-health-risks-in-some-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog health</a> is not new, and several studies have pointed towards a link between the timing of neutering and the onset of certain diseases in female dogs. 



However, the lack of uniform methodologies and diverse study populations have made it difficult to reach a consensus.



The intriguing question remains - does the timing of neutering, especially in relation to puberty, influence the health outcomes of our beloved dogs?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-neutering-on-female-dogs">Impact of neutering on female dogs</h2>



Dr. Rachel Moxon and her team at the <a href="https://www.nottingham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nottingham</a> set out to investigate by sifting through existing literature.



The goal was to explore the impact of neutering timing (particularly around puberty) on five key <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-now-hear-signs-of-heart-disease-in-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health outcomes</a> - atopy, developmental orthopedic disease (DOD), neoplasia, obesity, and urogenital disease.



The study was focused on female dogs and how neutering affects their health. An astounding number of publications were identified, reviewed, and assessed to build a rich and comprehensive picture of the subject matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-lack-of-evidence">Significant lack of evidence </h2>



Contrary to the team's hope for a rich evidence base, the review shed light on a stark reality. There is a significant lack of evidence regarding the impacts of neutering female dogs before or after puberty on the five stated aspects of dog health.



Only a handful of studies considered the dog's pubertal status at neutering, while others merely took the dog's age into account.



Why is this a big deal? This missing link makes it difficult for veterinarians and pet owners to make informed decisions about the optimal timing of neutering. After all, who wants to make a choice that could potentially impact their pet’s health negatively?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicting-study-results">Conflicting study results</h2>



"Conflicting information in the veterinary literature regarding the beneficial and detrimental impacts of neutering at different times makes decisions regarding the best time to neuter female dogs difficult for pet dog owners, and providing advice to owners difficult for veterinarians," said Rachel Moxon, lead researcher on the project.



"Similar to the findings of another review by this research group that looked at the effects on behavior, this review has identified a lack of evidence related to the impacts of neutering female dogs before or after puberty on five aspects of female dog health."



According to Moxon, studies generally propose that neutering female dogs earlier appears to be protective for some cancers, but increases the risk of developmental orthopedic disease and potentially urinary incontinence.



These contrasting results make it difficult to determine the optimal timing of neutering to benefit female dog health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-neutering-remains-unclear">Impact of neutering remains unclear</h2>



"This scoping review suggests that robust evidence to support veterinarians, those working with dogs and dog owners when discussing the timing of neutering relative to puberty does not yet exist," concluded the researchers.



"The review highlighted the lack of literature along with weaknesses in the existing studies caused by age rather than puberty being examined. Whether or not neutering before or after puberty has an impact on the health of female domesticated dogs is currently unknown."



So, where does this leave us? As pet owners or veterinarians, how are we supposed to navigate this conundrum?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-call-for-more-research-on-dog-neutering">Call for more research on dog neutering</h2>



By the end of this journey, if there's one key insight we can draw, it's the necessity for further research. More comprehensive, standardized studies considering the pubertal status at neutering are crucial to give us a clearer picture.



Think about it: wouldn't it be great if we could make informed decisions about neutering to ensure the best health outcomes for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-evolving-to-fit-the-modern-lives-of-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our furry companions</a>?



In a world where our decisions can directly impact the lives of our beloved pets, ignorance cannot be bliss. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0311779" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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How does neutering affect a dog's health? Many questions remain

Have you ever thought about the impact neutering might have...

A wilting flower is not always a sign of poor health or inadequate care. It could actually be a strategic play, millions of years in the making, created by Mother Nature herself.



Researchers from Macquarie University, along with international collaborators, have discovered a simple strategy that has been overlooked: plants recycle resources from wilting flowers for future reproduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recycling-resources-from-wilting-flowers">Recycling resources from wilting flowers </h2>



"Our research delivers the first direct demonstration that plants can salvage resources from wilting flowers and reuse these resources to promote future reproduction," said lead author Honorary Professor Graham Pyke from <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macquarie University</a>.



Why bother with this recycling effort? Well, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> aren't just pretty faces. They are rich in energy and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. When they wilt, it isn't necessarily the end but rather the beginning of another chapter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wilting-flowers-of-christmas-bells">Wilting flowers of Christmas bells </h2>



The focus of the three-year study was a native of Eastern Australia, the stunning Blandfordia grandiflora. Known commonly as Christmas bells, it casts a striking image with its vibrant red and yellow flowers, especially around December.



"Our research takes place on a plantation containing several hectares of native wet heath where Christmas bells flower quite profusely, along with a commercial shadehouse," noted Professor Pyke.



To assess the abilities of the plant, the team used an array of techniques. They modulated pollination and flower wilting and then gauged the effect on seed production and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-prefer-flowers-with-large-bullseyes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reflowering</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storing-up-chemical-energy">Storing up chemical energy </h2>



The researchers soon realized things weren’t exactly as they had predicted. They found that plants did not use resources from wilted flowers to bolster short-term reproduction.



"These plants salvage resources invested in reproduction during one flowering season and reuse these resources during the next flowering season," explained Professor Pyke.



Blandfordia grandiflora was found to transfer resources from its wilting flowers to its underground corms and roots, effectively storing this "chemical energy" to produce new flowering stems in the subsequent season, often a year later.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resource-management-in-wilting-flowers">Resource management in wilting flowers</h2>



Professor Pyke noted that plants work on principles similar to economics. "Plants must make decisions about where to allocate their limited resources; investing in one area means they can't invest as much in another."



This concept of resource allocation prompted Professor Pyke to investigate flower wilting, which he anticipated to be a plant's mechanism of diverting resources to other processes.



The results, however, were not quite what he expected. The plants were storing their reclaimed resources for the next flowering season - not using them right away.



According to Professor Pyke, plants have different ways of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-are-picky-when-choosing-their-mate-for-fertilization/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">managing their flowers</a> post reproduction, with wilting being just one of many strategies. Some plants, such as the jacaranda and the frangipani, even shed their flowers before they wilt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seed-production-and-wilting-in-flowers">Seed production and wilting in flowers</h2>



The study findings were confirmed through various experiments. One such experiment compared seed production between plants with flowers that were allowed to wilt and those with petals removed to prevent wilting.



Another experiment stopped seed production in all flowers but allowed wilting in one group of plants. Results showed that plants with wilting flowers were more likely to reflower the next season than those where wilting was prevented.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-that-influence-seed-production">Factors that influence seed production </h2>



The study also took into consideration other factors that might influence seed production, such as stem height, the number of flowers per stem, and flower position.



"Taller flowering stems, for example, produced more seeds and heavier seeds, as did stems with more flowers. But flowers positioned lower down on the plant tended to have fewer seeds, and seeds that weighed less," said Professor Pyke.



"Our findings pave the way for further research into other plant species, and how they recover and reuse the resources from wilting flowers."



An exciting road lies ahead, with a lot to discover. Future research will explore what these salvaged resources are composed of, how plants move and change them, and whether saving these resources outweighs the costs of making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-and-flower-strips-improve-honey-bee-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> in the first place.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/plb.13720" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plant Biology</a>.



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Plants with wilting flowers aren't dying - they are saving energy

A wilting flower is not always a sign of poor...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

Laura will strengthen into major hurricane as it reaches Gulf Coast. Today&#8217;s Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> shows Tropical Storm Marco and Tropical Storm Laura racing toward the Gulf Coast on August 23, 2020.
Tropical.Storm Laura is set to become the first major hurricane of the year by the time it makes landfall somewhere in Texas or Louisiana. The impacts of the hurricane will be felt far inland &#8211; potentially several hundred miles &#8211; over many states. 
Life-threatening storm surge is a serious concern across much of the Gulf Coast, with warnings in place from San Luis Pass, Texas to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. 
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edward said that today will be the last full day to prepare for this &#8220;very large, very powerful storm,&#8221; which is expected to gain strength up until it makes landfall early Thursday.
After being downgraded to a tropical depression, Marco made landfall on Monday near the mouth of the Mississippi River. Laura will strengthen into major hurricane as it reaches Gulf Coast. Today&#8217;s Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory shows Tropical Storm Marco and Tropical Storm Laura racing toward the Gulf Coast on August 23, 2020.
The image was captured by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on NOAA-20.
Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 
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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
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Laura will strengthen into major hurricane as it reaches Gulf Coast

Typhoon Bavi makes landfall in North Korea. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> shows the eighth tropical storm of the 2020 Pacific typhoon season, Typhoon Bavi, heading north toward the Korean Peninsula.

The photo was captured by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP satellite on August 25, 2020. By August 26, the storm had maximum sustained winds of 110 miles per hour. Typhoon Bavi makes landfall in North Korea

Warm water temperatures fueled Typhoon Bavi as it moved across the Yellow Sea, and the storm grazed the South Korean island of Jeju with powerful winds and waves and torrential rainfall. 

Bavi made landfall in a western coastal region of North Korea early Thursday morning with maximum wind speeds of 83 miles per hour. In 1910, <a title="Korean Empire" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korean_Empire">Korea</a> was <a title="Korea under Japanese rule" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korea_under_Japanese_rule">annexed</a> by <a class="mw-redirect" title="Imperial Japan" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperial_Japan">Imperial Japan</a>. At the <a title="Surrender of Japan" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surrender_of_Japan">Japanese surrender</a> at the <a title="End of World War II in Asia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/End_of_World_War_II_in_Asia">end of World War II</a> in 1945, Korea was <a title="Division of Korea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Division_of_Korea">divided into two zones</a>, with the <a title="Soviet Civil Administration" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soviet_Civil_Administration">north occupied by the Soviet Union</a> and the <a title="United States Army Military Government in Korea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Army_Military_Government_in_Korea">south occupied by the United States</a>. Negotiations on <a title="Korean reunification" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korean_reunification">reunification</a> failed, and in 1948, separate governments were formed: the socialist Democratic People's Republic of Korea in the north, and the capitalist <a title="First Republic of Korea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Republic_of_Korea">Republic of Korea</a> in the south

Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 

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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

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