Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an active landslide zone that has been shifting for decades on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County.



This area, particularly in Portuguese Bend, experiences ongoing ground movement, with land sliding toward the ocean at varying rates of up to several feet per year. 



The instability is largely due to weak, water-saturated bedrock and the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-seas-sinking-cities-land-subsidence-on-the-east-coast/">human activity</a>, including road construction and irrigation, which have exacerbated the natural movement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-the-landslide-zone">Analysis of the landslide zone</h2>



According to a recent report from NASA, the landslide zone on the Palos Verdes Peninsula has expanded.&nbsp;



“Researchers at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California used data from an airborne radar to measure the movement of the slow-moving landslides on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County,” the <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153893/los-angeles-area-landslide-expands">report</a> stated.



“The analysis determined that, during a four-week period in the fall of 2024, land in the residential area slid toward the ocean by as much as 4 inches (10 centimeters) per week."



“Portions of the peninsula, which juts into the Pacific Ocean just south of the city of Los Angeles, are part of an ancient complex of landslides that has been moving for at least the past six decades, affecting hundreds of buildings in local communities.”&nbsp;



NASA noted that the motion accelerated and the active area expanded following record-breaking rainfall in Southern California in 2023 and heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation</a> in early 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visualization-of-the-landslide-zone">Visualization of the landslide zone</h2>



To create the image, the Advanced Rapid Imaging and Analysis (ARIA) team used data from four flights of NASA’s Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR) collected between September 18 and October 17, 2024.&nbsp;



“The UAVSAR instrument was mounted to a Gulfstream III jet flown out of NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, and the four flights were planned to estimate the speed and direction of the landslides in three dimensions,” explained NASA.



“In the image above, colors indicate how fast parts of the landslide complex were moving in late September and October, with the darkest reds indicating the highest speeds." 



"The arrows represent the direction of horizontal motion. The white solid lines are the boundaries of the active landslide area as defined in 2007 by the California Geological Survey.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerating-land-movement-and-risks">Accelerating land movement and risks</h2>



Alexander Handwerger is a landslide scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory who performed the analysis. “In effect, we’re seeing that the footprint of land experiencing significant impacts has expanded, and the speed is more than enough to put human life and infrastructure at risk,” said Handwerger.&nbsp;



The landslide activity in this region dates back to the 1950s, when road construction projects disturbed the already <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-billion-people-are-threatened-by-land-subsidence/">unstable terrain</a>, accelerating movement.&nbsp;



Since then, shifting ground has led to significant damage to infrastructure, including cracked roads, broken utility lines, and distorted buildings. The instability has made it difficult for the city to maintain roads and essential services in the affected areas.



Despite efforts to slow the movement, including drainage improvements and engineering solutions, the land continues to shift. Homeowners and city officials have had to adapt, with some structures built to withstand slow movement, while others have been abandoned.&nbsp;



The situation remains a challenge, with scientists monitoring the landslide to better understand its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landslide-predictions-could-become-94-percent-more-accurate/">behavior</a> and explore potential mitigation strategies.



Portuguese Bend is a well-known example of a continuously active landslide, highlighting the complex interaction between geology, human development, and environmental forces.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Landslide zone in Los Angeles County is expanding

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula">Characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula </h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

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

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.&nbsp;



<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-a-blue-giant-star">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, sometimes referred to as the Pearl Cluster, which is known for its richness in bright stars and its relatively young age.



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



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



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.



<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. 



Observations of blue giant 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. This means that its central region is exceptionally luminous, likely due to the presence of a supermassive black hole. 



The black hole is actively accreting material, which emits a substantial amount of radiation as it spirals inward and heats up.



The galaxy 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-ngc-3783-galaxy-group">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 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 spiral galaxy and a blue giant star

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a pair of interacting spiral galaxies known as the Antennae Galaxies. They are located approximately 45 million light-years away in the constellation Corvus.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antennae-galaxies-in-a-deadly-embrace">Antennae Galaxies in a deadly embrace </h2>



“The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has snapped the best ever image of the Antennae Galaxies. Hubble has released images of these stunning galaxies twice before, once using observations from its Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2) in 1997, and again in 2006 from the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS),” noted <a href="https://esahubble.org/images/potw1345a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The galaxies - also known as NGC 4038 and NGC 4039 - are locked in a deadly embrace. Once normal, sedate spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, the pair have spent the past few hundred million years sparring with one another.”



According to ESA, the clash of the Antennae Galaxies is so violent that stars have been ripped from their host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collision-2-million-mph-stephans-quintet-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> to form a streaming arc between the two.&nbsp;



The name of the galaxy pair comes from this long stream of stars and gas, which resembles insect antennae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-bursts-of-star-formation-nbsp">Intense bursts of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



The collision has triggered intense bursts of star formation, making the Antennae Galaxies one of the nearest and most dramatic examples of a starburst galaxy.&nbsp;



Many of the newly formed stars are concentrated in massive star clusters, some of which are expected to evolve into globular clusters over millions of years.



“This new image of the Antennae Galaxies shows obvious signs of chaos. Clouds of gas are seen in bright pink and red, surrounding the bright flashes of blue star-forming regions - some of which are partially obscured by dark patches of dust,” explained ESA.



“The rate of star formation is so high that the Antennae Galaxies are said to be in a state of starburst, a period in which all of the gas within the galaxies is being used to form stars.”&nbsp;



“This cannot last forever and neither can the separate galaxies; eventually the nuclei will coalesce, and the galaxies will begin their retirement together as one large elliptical galaxy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-antennae-galaxies">Significance of the Antennae Galaxies</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies are one of the most well-studied examples of galaxy collisions - offering insight into the processes that shape galaxies over time.



Astronomers study the Antennae Galaxies using a range of telescopes across different wavelengths, including visible light, infrared, and X-rays.&nbsp;



Observations in X-rays have revealed evidence of supernovae and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-may-talk-to-galaxies-through-energetic-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, while infrared studies highlight regions of dust and star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-milky-way-s-collision-course-nbsp">The Milky Way's collision course&nbsp;</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies provide a glimpse into the future of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is expected to eventually merge with the Andromeda Galaxy - our closest spiral galaxy neighbor.



The cosmic collision course of the Milky Way and Andromeda will reshape both galaxies over billions of years.&nbsp;



This event is expected to occur in about 4.5 billion years. Both galaxies are part of the Local Group, a cluster of galaxies bound together by gravity. Their mutual gravitational pull is drawing them closer at a speed of approximately 110 kilometers per second.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-an-elliptical-galaxy-nbsp">The birth of an elliptical galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



When the two galaxies collide, their individual stars will largely avoid direct collisions due to the vast distances between them. However, the gravitational forces involved will create dramatic effects.&nbsp;



These forces will distort the galaxies' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shapes</a>, triggering intense bursts of star formation as gas clouds collide and compress. Over time, the galaxies will settle into a new, larger elliptical galaxy often referred to as "Milkomeda" or "Milkdromeda" by astronomers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-merger-and-the-solar-system">Galaxy merger and the solar system</h2>



Despite the seemingly destructive nature of the collision, the solar system is unlikely to face direct harm. Our Sun may find itself flung into a new orbit within the merged galaxy or even cast into intergalactic space.&nbsp;



The merger will also significantly alter the night sky, with the Andromeda Galaxy becoming increasingly prominent before blending into the unified structure.



This event is part of the natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-are-much-bigger-than-we-originally-believed-gas-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> and serves as a fascinating reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the universe. 



While the collision is still billions of years away, studying it helps astronomers understand galactic interactions and the long-term future of our cosmic neighborhood.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 photograph of South Georgia, a remote and rugged island located in the southern Atlantic Ocean. 



"Linked with the South Sandwich Islands to form a British Overseas Territory, this southern Atlantic island is a haven for a vast array of wildlife," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Around five million seals call the islands home, as well as 65 million birds of 30 different species. Migrating whales and various fish species populate the surrounding waters and there is a large penguin population."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-wildlife-of-south-georgia">Climate and wildlife of South Georgia </h2>



The island is dominated by mountains, glaciers, and fjords. Its highest peak, Mount Paget, rises to 2,935 meters, making it one of the tallest in the region.



South Georgia’s location within the Antarctic Convergence gives it a cold, maritime climate. Although not part of the Antarctic Treaty System, its environment and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-efforts-are-not-enough-to-save-antarctic-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> are closely linked to Antarctica. 



The island is home to vast colonies of penguins, seals, and seabirds. The surrounding waters are rich with krill, providing an abundant food source for marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-penguins-adapted-to-harsh-environments">Penguins adapted to harsh environments </h2>



The most notable species found here are the king penguins, which are the second-largest penguin species in the world. South Georgia also hosts large populations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-the-gentoo-penguin-the-worlds-fastest-swimming-bird/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gentoo</a> and macaroni penguins. 



The island's harsh climate, characterized by strong winds, snow, and cold temperatures, makes it a tough environment, but the penguins have adapted well. 



Their colonies - some of which number in the hundreds of thousands - can be found along the island's rugged coasts and beaches. 



The island’s isolation, combined with its plentiful food supply, makes it a critical breeding ground for these penguins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-south-georgia">History of South Georgia </h2>



The island has a history of exploration and exploitation. Captain James Cook first claimed South Georgia for Britain in 1775. 



During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a hub for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whaling</a> industry, with stations like Grytviken serving as operational centers. These stations have since been abandoned, and the island is now a haven for scientific research and ecotourism.



South Georgia is also notable for its role in Ernest Shackleton’s famed Endurance expedition. His crew reached the island in 1916 after an extraordinary open-boat journey from Elephant Island. Shackleton later died on South Georgia in 1922 and is buried in Grytviken.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pristine-nature-of-the-island">Pristine nature of the island</h2>



Today, South Georgia is a focus of conservation efforts. The eradication of invasive species, such as rats and reindeer, has been a significant success, allowing native wildlife to recover. 



Rats and mice were responsible for the decline of ground-nesting birds, including the South Georgia pipit, the island's only endemic bird. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reindeer-use-ultraviolet-vision-to-find-food-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reindeer</a>, which had been introduced for farming in the 19th century, caused extensive damage to the island’s vegetation, disrupting the habitat for native species.



South Georgia is uninhabited except for a small number of scientists and staff working at research stations and administrative facilities, emphasizing its role as a protected wilderness area and an essential site for understanding global environmental changes.



Its uninhabited status has helped preserve its pristine nature. Visitors to South Georgia must follow strict environmental guidelines to minimize human impact on this extraordinary island.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance-of-remote-islands">Scientific significance of remote islands </h2>



Remote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-life-on-islands-loses-diversity-when-humans-arrive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">islands</a> are scientifically significant for several reasons. They often serve as unique ecosystems that can provide insights into evolutionary processes, biodiversity, and adaptation. 



Due to their isolation, species on remote islands may evolve differently from their mainland counterparts, resulting in the development of endemic species that exist nowhere else in the world. 



These islands also act as natural laboratories for studying the effects of climate change, human activity, and ecological interactions, as they are more vulnerable to disturbances. 



Moreover, remote islands can offer valuable information on the health of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, as their ecosystems are often less impacted by human-induced factors. This makes them ideal for studying natural processes in relatively undisturbed environments. 



The isolation of these islands can also help scientists study the patterns of species migration, colonization, and extinction.



Image Credit: ESA 



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South Georgia: One of the most remote islands in the world

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Additionally, Euclid's dataset will help scientists identify clusters of old stars (globular clusters) and discover new dwarf galaxies around NGC 6744. 



Remarkably, Euclid has already identified a new dwarf satellite galaxy of NGC 6744 - a surprising discovery given that the galaxy has been studied extensively.



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



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



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



The spiral arms of NGC 6744 are well-defined and extend outward, wrapping around the central bar. 



Additionally, NGC 6744 has a smaller companion galaxy, NGC 6744A, which is interacting with it, adding to the complexity and interest of this distant system. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-spiral-galaxies">Types of spiral galaxies</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Young stars illuminate a spiral galaxy in the constellation Pavo

The brown recluse spider is one of the most dangerous spiders in the United States. Its venom destroys the walls of blood vessels near the site of the bite, sometimes causing a large skin ulcer. The wound that is produced may require several months to heal, or it may become infected, which could lead to the death of the victim.  Photo Credit: Pong Wira

Brown Recluse Spider

Regardless of how far apart we sit on branches of the evolutionary tree, human faces are very different from those of our ancestors. Modern humans can be recognized by their smaller facial structure when compared with Neanderthals and other hominin ancestors.



Anthropologists have long wondered why this difference exists and what kind of developmental changes in our facial bones led our species toward this slimmer appearance.



This difference is particularly noticeable when modern humans are lined up alongside the fossils of bigger-boned <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tinshemet-cave-discovery-neanderthals-early-humans-sharing-and-complex-interactions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancestors</a> from distant eras.



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S004724842500020X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> recently compared the evidence of facial bone growth in humans, Neanderthal remains, and chimpanzee skeletons.



One of the lead investigators, <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/human-origins/staff/alexandra-schuh/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alexandra Schuh</a> from the Max Planck Institute for <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolutionary Anthropology</a>, found that variations in the pace of bone growth may offer a core explanation for how our faces became more refined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-vs-neanderthal-faces">Human vs. Neanderthal faces</h2>



Studying different groups side by side helps scientists pinpoint which growth patterns set each group apart. 



By measuring bone sizes at various life stages, experts see how the developing face changes over time. 



This reveals important clues about broader evolutionary shifts that shaped our modern appearance and separated us from our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-fossils-reveal-signs-of-a-population-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct predecessors</a>.



This comparative approach also pulls in data from surviving primate relatives like chimpanzees, which share many features but do not have the same facial proportions as seen in humans.



By including such living primates, scientists build a clearer timeline of how certain traits might have deep roots that stretch back millions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growth-pattern-of-human-faces">Growth pattern of human faces</h2>



One key discovery is that our faces stop expanding earlier than those of other large-faced primates and extinct hominin groups.



A shorter growth window makes a difference in the final adult profile, since less time for bone growth means a smaller overall structure. 



This sets modern humans apart from their hefty-boned <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-evolution-was-more-complex-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relatives</a> that are seen in archaeological finds.



Scientists observed that Neanderthal faces, for instance, keep growing for longer, allowing for a robust jaw and broader midface to develop. 



This pattern contrasts with ours, where growth slows around adolescence and locks in a leaner form, perhaps hinting at an evolutionary tweak that conserves energy while still supporting vital functions like chewing.



“Our findings reveal that a change in development - particularly during late growth stages - led to smaller faces. Compared to Neanderthals and chimpanzees who continue growing longer, human facial growth stops earlier, around adolescence, resulting in a smaller adult face,” said Schuh.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-the-face-structure">Inside the face structure</h2>



Shifts in bone activities, including when cells deposit new layers or break down older layers, appear to guide this reduced growth. 



If the process winds down sooner, the upper jaw - called the <a href="https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/the-maxilla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maxilla</a> - does not project forward as much, leading to a face that is more compact and less imposing than that of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-analysis-reveals-most-recent-modern-human-to-interbreed-with-neanderthals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neanderthal</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/neanderthal-skull_compared_human-skull_Philipp-Gunz_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/neanderthal-skull_compared_human-skull_Philipp-Gunz_1s.webp" alt="Left: computed tomographic (CT) scan of a Neanderthal fossil (La Ferrassie 1). Right: CT scan of a modern human. Credit: Philipp Gunz" class="wp-image-1964150"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Left: computed tomographic (CT) scan of a Neanderthal fossil (La Ferrassie 1). Right: CT scan of a modern human. Click to enlarge. Credit: Philipp Gunz</figcaption></figure>



In larger-faced species, these bone activities remain more intense for a longer period, boosting the formation of thicker and more protruding features. 



This ongoing bone growth helps explain why some ancient skulls are strikingly big, and it shows that timing has a powerful role in setting each group’s appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-faces-grow-less-as-we-age">Faces grow less as we age</h2>



Even though certain facial traits appear early in life, a major distinction between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-behavior-provides-clues-about-their-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> emerges in those final developmental years before adulthood. 



“Identifying key developmental changes allows us to understand how species-specific traits emerged throughout human evolution,” said Schuh.



Researchers note that humans have a relatively extended childhood, yet our facial structures do not keep scaling up throughout that entire stage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-or-genetic-influences">Environmental or genetic influences</h2>



Some <a href="https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674046368" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> argue that better food processing and cooking might reduce strain on our jaw, but this alone seems insufficient to explain every detail. 



Others point to social or behavioral factors, suggesting that selective pressures may subtly shape how the face grows over time.



Biological data indicate that genetic mechanisms controlling bone growth may strongly steer the pace at which the face expands. 



Hormonal changes during adolescence could further speed up or slow down these processes, but researchers caution that the full story likely involves an interplay of genes, environment, and daily habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-human-and-neanderthal-faces">Connecting human and Neanderthal faces</h2>



Building on these findings, scientists plan to examine more fossils from different time periods to see if other ancient human groups followed a similar pattern. 



They hope to trace shifts in facial growth rates across regions, comparing how different populations balanced the demands of survival with changes in jaw development.



By mapping these variations, experts hope to gain insight into which traits are universal and which might be unique offshoots of specific environments. 



This sort of detective work across the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/fossil-record" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil record</a> pulls together biology, culture, and history, giving us a broader grasp of what shaped our defining look.



Clues also emerge about social evolution, given that facial expression and recognition might factor into how communities function. 



A smaller face could offer advantages in communication or other areas, though pinning down a direct link calls for deeper investigation into prehistoric behavior and ecological pressures.



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



Scientists agree that the timeline of facial growth stands out as a key to understanding why we appear different from <a href="https://www.britannica.com/list/human-ancestors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancestral humans</a>. 



Once that window shuts, the face remains smaller and less projected, a shift that may have opened doors to new adaptations while still meeting our species’ unique developmental needs.



These insights show that it is not only the shape of our face that changed, but also the time it took to get there. 



As research continues, discoveries about early growth may help us see that each subtle change in our bones has powerful consequences for our evolutionary course.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S004724842500020X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Human Evolution</a>.



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Did early humans and Neanderthals know they were different species? Perhaps, here's how

Regardless of how far apart we sit on branches of...

Fingerprint analysis has been a dependable tool in crime-solving for more than a century. Investigators lean on fingerprint evidence to identify suspects or connect them to specific crime scenes, believing that every print offers a distinctive code.



Yet, a team of researchers has found that prints from different fingers of the same person can sometimes appear more alike. 



This insight came from an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-will-outsmart-humans-when-we-crack-the-neural-code/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> model that revealed surprising connections between prints. 



Hod Lipson, from Columbia Engineering, stands out in this effort to question widely accepted forensic norms, in collaboration with Wenyao Xu from the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Buffalo</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-takes-on-fingerprints">AI takes on fingerprints</h2>



For decades, it has been taken for granted that fingerprints from different fingers of one individual do not match. Much of this belief stems from the assumption that each finger displays completely separate ridges, loops, and swirls. 



One anonymous reviewer even stated, “It is well known that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-fingerprints/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">every fingerprint is unique</a>,” when confronted with the researchers’ work. 



Despite such resistance, an undergraduate senior at <a href="https://www.engineering.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia Engineering</a> named Gabe Guo spearheaded a study that contradicts this long-standing assumption.



By using a public U.S. government database with roughly 60,000 prints, Guo fed pairs of fingerprints into a deep contrastive network. Some pairs belonged to the same person, while others came from different people. 



The artificial intelligence system became adept at telling when prints that looked different were actually from one individual, reaching an accuracy of 77% for single pairs. 



In cases where multiple samples were grouped together, the accuracy soared, offering the possibility of boosting existing forensic methods by more than tenfold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-researchers-rocking-the-boat">Researchers rocking the boat</h2>



Although these findings promised fresh possibilities for connecting crime scenes, the researchers faced an uphill battle during peer review. 



The project was rejected by a well-established forensics journal that did not accept the suggestion that different fingers might produce prints with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecular-fingerprints-could-be-key-to-early-cancer-detection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shared characteristics</a>. 



Undeterred, the group sought out a broader readership. The paper was turned away once again, prompting Lipson to challenge the decision.



“If this information tips the balance, then I imagine that cold cases could be revived, and even that innocent people could be acquitted," noted Lipson, who co-directs the <a href="https://make.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Makerspace Facility</a> at Columbia.



Determined not to back away from a challenge, even if it meant disrupting over 100 years of accepted practice, the team kept refining their work. 



Finally, their persistence paid off as their study was finally recognized and published in the peer-reviewed journal, Science Advances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-gives-new-clues-in-fingerprint-analysis">AI gives new clues in fingerprint analysis</h2>



Traditional methods rely on minutiae, which refer to branching patterns and endpoints in the ridges. 



“The AI was not using ‘minutiae,’ which are the branchings and endpoints in fingerprint ridges - the patterns used in traditional fingerprint comparison," Guo explained. 



"Instead, it was using something else, related to the angles and curvatures of the swirls and loops in the center of the fingerprint.” 



His findings suggest that experts may have overlooked important visual cues.



The collaboration included Columbia Engineering graduate Aniv Ray and PhD student Judah Goldfeder, both of whom indicated that the project’s early success could grow stronger with bigger datasets. 



“Just imagine how well this will perform once it’s trained on millions, instead of thousands of fingerprints,” Ray remarked, hinting that this approach could eventually refine how investigators hunt for clues across multiple crime scenes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-bias-and-next-steps">Potential bias and next steps</h2>



The researchers are alert to possible data gaps. They noted that their system showed similar performance across various demographics but emphasized the need for larger, more diverse fingerprint collections. 



They hope that thorough validation will address any concerns about bias before anyone adopts this technique in actual investigations. 



The long-term goal is to offer law enforcement a supplementary tool that improves efficiency when cases seem tangled.



While the AI cannot officially conclude a legal matter, it can help narrow the field of suspects or connect distinct crime scenes based on partial matches. 



“Many people think that AI cannot really make new discoveries - that it just regurgitates knowledge," Lipson elaborated, pointing to a broader shift in how AI might support investigative work.



"But this research is an example of how even a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-forecasting-ai-will-improve-extreme-weather-warnings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fairly simple AI</a>, given a fairly plain dataset that the research community has had lying around for years, can provide insights that have eluded experts for decades."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-fingerprints-and-law-enforcement">AI, fingerprints, and law enforcement</h2>



This study demonstrates that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-generative-ai-go-mad-and-wreck-internet-data/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> can spot patterns that traditional analysis methods might miss. It also highlights the value of open datasets that have been underutilized in many areas of research. 



The findings may prompt forensic experts to rethink certain procedures, especially when multiple prints from the same suspect turn up at different locations.



Lipson sees a future where unexpected breakthroughs can come from fresh perspectives. 



“Even more exciting is the fact that an undergraduate student, with no background in forensics whatsoever, can use AI to successfully challenge a widely held belief of an entire field," Lipson concluded. 



"We are about to experience an explosion of AI-led scientific discovery by non-experts, and the expert community, including academia, needs to get ready.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adi0329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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AI proves that human fingerprints are not unique, upending 100 years of law enforcement

Fingerprint analysis has been a dependable tool in crime-solving for...

Urbanization is reshaping more than just skylines. As cities expand and natural landscapes give way to concrete and park lawns, the soil beneath our feet is changing too.



The diversity of life underground - especially among bacteria and fungi - is responding to the pressures of urban development in surprising ways.



New research now shows that, while bacterial communities are becoming more alike across cities, fungal communities are holding onto their unique identities.



This new study comes from scientists at <a href="https://en.sjtu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanghai Jiao Tong University</a>, the University of Helsinki, and other international institutions. 



The researchers studied soil microbial communities in boreal, temperate, and tropical biomes. They looked at sites ranging from undisturbed forests to urban parks of various ages. 



Their findings reveal a striking contrast in how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-engage-in-more-conversations-after-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fungi</a> have responded to urbanization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-bacteria-reshaped-by-urbanization">Soil bacteria reshaped by urbanization </h2>



The researchers found that bacteria in urban soils tend to behave like generalists. They adapt quickly and can thrive in a range of conditions. 



In fact, the similarity between bacterial communities rose from 79% in forests to 85% in younger urban parks. About 90% of urban soil bacteria were generalists.



Fungi, on the other hand, proved to be more resistant to change. Roughly 83% of fungi remained specialists - organisms that stick to very specific environmental conditions.



Their evolutionary pace is slower than that of bacteria and they don't share genes as easily. This keeps them more rooted to particular niches.



“Urbanization is a powerful force reshaping soil <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial communities</a>, yet bacteria and fungi respond in strikingly different ways. Bacteria swiftly adapt to urban conditions, whereas fungi retain their ecological specialization, highlighting the complex interplay between microbial adaptation and ecosystem resilience,” noted Dr. Nan Hui, the study’s corresponding author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-bacteria-and-fungi-different">What makes bacteria and fungi different?</h2>



The contrasting responses of bacteria and fungi to urbanization stem from their fundamental biological differences. 



Bacteria are single-celled organisms with relatively simple structures and rapid reproduction cycles. They readily exchange genetic material through processes like horizontal gene transfer, allowing them to adapt quickly to new or stressful environments.



Fungi, by contrast, are more complex. Many are multicellular, forming extensive underground networks known as mycelia. These structures connect them intimately to their surroundings, making them less mobile and less genetically flexible than bacteria. 



Fungi also tend to evolve more slowly and rely heavily on specific environmental conditions and host relationships.



These inherent traits explain why bacteria can act as generalists in urban soils - adapting and thriving across varied settings - while fungi often remain tied to particular ecological niches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-bacteria-adapt-to-urbanization">Soil bacteria adapt to urbanization </h2>



Despite their different strategies, both bacteria and fungi are essential for the same big job: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-soils-produce-a-symphony-of-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keeping the soil healthy</a>. They break down organic matter and recycle nutrients.



The study shows that even though the fungi and bacteria populations shift differently, their shared functional traits help maintain these vital services in urban soils.



This redundancy in ecological roles means cities aren’t necessarily doomed to poor soil health. The resilience is built in. And that’s good news for city planners and environmental managers looking to protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-green-spaces-are-urgently-needed-across-the-global-south/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban green spaces</a>.



It also suggests that microbial soil communities can adapt to disturbance without losing their core functions. With the right support, urban soils can continue to thrive - even in heavily modified environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-city-soil-resilience">The future of city soil resilience</h2>



Soil microbes are often overlooked in discussions about biodiversity, especially in cities. But this study makes it clear that they play a vital role in sustaining life above the surface. Understanding their behavior under the stress of urbanization is a step toward building more resilient cities.



Future research could explore how certain design choices - like the age of green spaces or the types of plants used - shape these microbial communities.



Microbial studies like this one are essential for designing urban environments that support biodiversity, climate resilience, and long-term sustainability.



The more we learn about what keeps urban soils alive, the better equipped we’ll be to nurture the ecosystems that support us - even in the heart of the city.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666498425000250?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science and Ecotechnology</a>.



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Soil bacteria and fungi respond differently to urbanization

Urbanization is reshaping more than just skylines. As cities expand...

Space,Debris,From,Defective,Satellite,Due,To,Orbital,Collisions,And

Thousands of satellites circle our planet to watch weather patterns, connect remote communities, and power navigation apps. Their orbits are crammed with space debris - discarded boosters and scattered scraps from past missions - creating hazards that never seemed so urgent.



These observations come from Emma Stevenson of the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/Space_Debris" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Debris Office</a>, who has helped compile data on how unused satellites, leftover rocket hardware, and countless fragments endanger active missions.



She and her colleagues monitor the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-debris-may-create-a-future-with-no-internet-or-astronaut-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constant traffic</a> in low-Earth orbit and beyond, noting patterns of debris that threaten our future in space.



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



Space debris is basically the junkyard we’ve created in orbit - old satellites, broken rocket parts, and tiny shards from past collisions just floating around the Earth at insane speeds. 



Every piece, no matter how small, has the potential to do serious damage. Think about it: a paint chip moving at 17,000 miles per hour can punch a hole in a spacecraft. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-says-the-international-space-station-is-too-clean-add-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a> constantly tracks this stuff and occasionally has to dodge it. It’s like trying to drive through traffic while avoiding a swarm of invisible, hypersonic marbles.



If we don’t get a handle on the mess, things could get way worse. Scientists worry about something called the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-the-kessler-syndrome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kessler Syndrome</a> - a scenario where one collision creates more debris, which causes more collisions, and so on until space becomes a giant, deadly pinball machine. 



If that happens, launching satellites (or even astronauts) could become too dangerous, and we’d lose access to GPS, weather data, and a ton of modern communication systems we rely on every day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-debris-far-outnumbers-satellites">Space debris far outnumbers satellites</h2>



These new <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/Space_Debris" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">figures</a> show that more than 40,000 tracked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moon-mining-and-space-debris-will-we-repeat-earths-mistakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">objects</a> surround Earth, yet fewer than a third are working spacecraft. Because of growing debris, cleanup is necessary.



Even without any additional launches, the number of space debris would keep growing, because fragmentation events add new debris objects faster than debris can naturally re-enter the atmosphere, said Stevenson.&nbsp;



Experts refer to this self-sustaining collision cycle as the Kessler syndrome, a phenomenon first described in the 1970s. It can render certain orbits too dangerous for new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-mission-will-closely-monitor-changes-on-earths-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellites</a> and even jeopardize human spaceflight routes. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-fragmentation-events">Major fragmentation events</h2>



Fragments mostly come from sudden breakups caused by leftover fuel, battery explosions, or even deliberate tests. 



Several severe incidents happened in the last year involving SpaceX Starship test flights. Each incident unleashed hundreds of sharp-edged pieces traveling at thousands of miles per hour.



These collisions risk hitting active satellites and can multiply the junk field with each crash. Operators constantly check for close approaches. 



However, this proves to be a more difficult process due to new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nisar-the-satellite-that-will-change-how-we-see-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellites</a> that sometimes outnumber the debris in certain orbits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shorter-orbits-rising-re-entries">Shorter orbits, rising re-entries</h2>



Improved compliance with debris guidelines has pushed many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-new-ezie-mission-will-study-earths-auroras-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellites</a> into lower routes. Their orbits decay more quickly, which speeds up atmospheric re-entry and cuts the time they spend circling our planet.



This trend explains why intact objects now drop out of orbit. In fact, space debris drops out of orbit three times a day on average. 



Although many re-enter safely, bigger spacecraft can leave hazardous <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/Space_Debris/About_space_debris" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remnants</a> that reach land or sea, creating pollution in the process.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-space-debris-to-protect-satellites">Cutting space debris to protect satellites </h2>



Organizations worldwide are updating debris <a href="https://technology.esa.int/upload/media/DGHKMZ_6542582e18e33.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rules</a> to clear satellites and rocket stages much sooner than the previous 25-year limit. 



Some now target five years or less to lessen the debris load and curb catastrophic collisions.



The push includes direct retrieval of massive dead satellites and used rocket segments. Active removal missions are in development, and operators aim to design future spacecraft with better passivation systems.



This will decrease explosions in orbit and reduce the harmful amount of space debris. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellites-vs-junk-the-new-traffic-jam">Satellites vs. junk: The new traffic jam</h2>



The most active region for satellites sits between 300 and 700 miles above Earth, where the density of functioning spacecraft is now rivaled by debris. 



ESA’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2013/04/ESA_s_MASTER_software_tool" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MASTER</a> tool revealed that in these crowded bands, the number of satellite pieces larger than a centimeter - big enough to destroy a satellite - is nearly equal to the number of working payloads.



As satellite constellations grow, with thousands of small units launched together, some orbits resemble high-speed highways with no traffic lights. 



Even minor objects, like a screw or paint chip, can hit with explosive force due to orbital speeds of over 17,000 mph.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cost-of-ignoring-the-mess">The cost of ignoring the mess</h2>



If current trends continue, simulations show the number of catastrophic collisions could grow dramatically in the coming decades - even without a single new launch. 



This would cripple space-based services we rely on for climate monitoring, communications, and disaster response.



ESA’s report emphasizes that active debris removal and stricter global standards are a necessity. If these procedures are not enacted, space could become unusable for future missions.



Stevenson and her team are urging international space agencies and commercial companies alike to commit to coordinated cleanup strategies and enforce tighter post-mission rules to reduce the ever-growing clutter of debris in space.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sdo.esoc.esa.int/environment_report/Space_Environment_Report_latest.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA’s Annual Space Environment Report 2025</a>.



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Space debris problem is growing exponentially worse, now threatens working satellites

Thousands of satellites circle our planet to watch weather patterns,...

Knots are not just twisted loops you might encounter on sailboats or during household chores. Some knots hide layers of mathematical and quantum complexity that turn up in cryptography, thermodynamics, and even attempts to understand how solar flares form on the sun’s surface.



Quantum <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-speed-is-measured-first-time-too-fast-for-humans-minds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computing</a> has stepped into this area by introducing specialized algorithms that promise faster ways to identify and classify these knotted structures. 



These efforts have drawn attention from scientists worldwide, showcasing how advanced hardware can transform math-heavy fields in surprising ways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-knots-and-quantum-advantage">Knots and quantum advantage</h2>



This perspective is championed by <a href="https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=IH9fJM0AAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Konstantinos Meichanetzidis</a> from <a href="https://www.quantinuum.com/blog/quantinuum-and-google-deepmind-unveil-the-reality-of-the-symbiotic-relationship-between-quantum-and-ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantinuum</a>, who led a research project aimed at tackling a puzzling question about twisted loops using advanced quantum processors. 



He and his team designed a new algorithm to estimate the <a href="https://math.berkeley.edu/~vfr/jonesakl.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jones polynomial</a>, a mathematical tool that helps experts tell knots apart.



The field of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/knot-theory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">knot theory</a> investigates whether one loop can be reshaped into another without cutting or passing any strand through itself. 



Distinguishing knots usually hinges on invariants such as the Jones polynomial, which stay unchanged under smooth deformations and thus act like fingerprints for each unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-theory-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">configuration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-devices-are-changing-knot-analysis">Quantum devices are changing knot analysis</h2>



In their <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.05625" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a>, Quantinuum’s scientists indicated that a quantum system with more than 85 <a href="https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/resources/cloud-computing-dictionary/what-is-a-qubit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">qubits</a> and 99.99% <a href="https://www.quantware.com/glossary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-qubit gate fidelity</a> could outpace <a href="https://www.olcf.ornl.gov/frontier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontier</a>, an exascale supercomputer that has showcased some of the highest performance numbers on record. 



Their existing <a href="https://extremecomputingtraining.anl.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/96/2024/08/ATPESC-2024-Track-2-Talk-2-Holmen-Frontier-Exascale-Architecture-AMD-MI250x-and-HPE-Slingshot.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H2 device</a>, which holds 56 qubits with 99.87% fidelity, forms the stepping stone toward a more powerful machine that meets these tighter targets.



They described their method as an “end-to-end reconfigurable algorithmic pipeline,” focusing on computing the Jones polynomial with minimal error on hardware prone to noise. 



This pipeline covers every step, from input formatting to final output, without putting a major strain on classical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-gates-teleported-a-leap-toward-scalable-computing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supercomputers</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-knots-matter">Why knots matter</h2>



The study of tangled loops may look abstract, but it influences fields as widely ranging as biology and cryptography. 



One illustration is the twisting and supercoiling of DNA strands in living cells, which can determine how genetic information is copied and expressed.



Researchers like <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11251829/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cozzarelli and Sumners</a> showed that the shape of DNA loops can affect enzymatic actions related to replication, leading to insights on drug design. 



These patterns also play a role in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/magnetohydrodynamics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetohydrodynamics</a>, where tangled magnetic fields on the sun connect to solar weather patterns that can disrupt satellites on Earth.



Experts have linked the mathematics of knot arrangements to <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s002200200645" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">topological quantum computing</a>, a direction in which certain quasiparticles are braided to perform logic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microsoft-announces-giant-leap-in-quantum-computing-majorana-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">operations</a>. 



This connection suggests that quantum hardware might handle knot-centric tasks more naturally than traditional machines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-energy-conscious-approach">An energy-conscious approach</h2>



Some scientists note that quantum advantage goes beyond just saving time. Estimates hint that handling knot computations on classical supercomputers demands large amounts of electricity, while a quantum setup could drastically cut these energy needs.



Machines like Frontier excel at enormous calculations, but their power consumption is equally enormous. 



By migrating specific tasks to qubits, researchers argue that a combination of shorter run times and refined error correction can reduce resource usage to a more manageable level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-benchmarking-tool">New benchmarking tool</h2>



The team introduced a performance test that leverages the invariant nature of the Jones polynomial. 



<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2109.12538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Topologically equivalent knots</a> all share the same final value, so any deviations likely arise from hardware errors rather than genuine differences in the input.



Because this approach circumvents the need for huge classical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shape-of-electrons-revealed-first-time-through-big-advance-in-quantum-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computations</a>, it becomes a quick yet reliable way to gauge quantum accuracy. 



Consistent outcomes across multiple variations of the same knot serve as a solid indicator that the processor is staying on track.



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



Engineers at Quantinuum plan to raise qubit counts and boost gate fidelities, in their quest to move closer to that 99.99% milestone. 



They expect that, once these technical goals are reached, the speed and energy advantages over classical computing methods will become more evident.



Scientists also see a chance to expand the algorithm into other branches of math and physics where complicated calculations hold back progress. 



With hardware improvements on the horizon, they believe specialized algorithms could deliver solutions that were once out of reach.



This momentum highlights a shift toward targeted tasks that are easy for quantum devices yet difficult for classical ones. 



By focusing on knot problems and similar challenges, the field nudges closer to a moment where quantum computing is more than just a lab experiment.



Advances in software design also play a part in this forward march. <a href="https://www.iaas.uni-stuttgart.de/publications/Beisel2022_QuantumErrorHandlingPatterns.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Refined error-handling techniques</a>, paired with better hardware design, can overcome today’s limitations and offer new avenues for research in mathematics, cryptography, and other fields.



Many observers remain eager to see whether the next generation of quantum devices will match the bold predictions made by their proponents. If these machines deliver on performance and efficiency, they could mark a turning point for knot theory and other demanding fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-knots-could-reshape-science-nbsp">Quantum knots could reshape science&nbsp;</h2>



Questions remain about how soon quantum hardware can align with the demands of advanced algorithms. 



Some think these improvements will come in small but steady increments, while others predict a major leap in the near future.



Either way, exploring knot theory on quantum devices highlights the surprising ways that abstract math can link up with real-life phenomena. 



It also reminds everyone that the frontiers of science can shift quickly when different disciplines come together.



The study is published in ArXiv.



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Quantum knots, DNA loops, and the future of genetic modification

Knots are not just twisted loops you might encounter on...

Science has never existed in a vacuum. Yet, the way it’s written and shared often makes it feel like it does. Technical language, emotionless tone, and a third-person perspective dominate scientific writings and make them feel cold and inaccessible.



These rules help maintain objectivity, but they also build a wall between science and society. In a time of climate crisis, biodiversity collapse, and widespread ecological grief, that wall needs to come down.



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> believe that storytelling - not just data - is essential. Their new perspective, published in People and Nature, invites the scientific community to experiment with more personal, emotional, and narrative-driven ways of communication.



The goal is not to dilute the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-must-reconnect-with-nature-now-to-save-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">science</a>. It is to open it up and make it resonate. And in doing so, to inspire the public, policymakers, and even other scientists to act.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-facts-aren-t-enough">When facts aren’t enough</h2>



The motivation behind this call is clear. Global temperatures are rising. Biodiversity is shrinking. We are dangerously close to irreversible tipping points. And yet, the political and public response often falls short.



The authors point to the case of climate scientists Dr. Rose Abramoff and Dr. Peter Kalmus, who were penalized for protesting at a major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-is-pushing-nature-toward-a-breaking-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientific</a> conference.



Their protest - “Out of the lab and onto the streets” - was seen as a break from objectivity. But it also highlighted the emotional weight that many scientists carry.



“As environmental scientists ourselves, we feel frustration, a sense of loss, fear and sometimes helplessness at the lack of action to protect the planet,” noted Professor Karen Anderson, one of the lead authors.



Scientists are not robots. They feel the urgency, but their training often keeps them from expressing it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-scientific-writing-became-emotionless">How scientific writing became emotionless</h2>



Scientific writing hasn’t always been so detached. Its current form began in the 17th and 18th centuries when so-called “gentleman scientists” wrote for peers. This legacy shaped how we write <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-grip-on-co2-is-slipping-what-it-means-for-us-all/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">science</a> today: objective, methodical, and impersonal.



“That form of writing clearly has its place - but we’re not only debating technical aspects of science for academic interest,” said Dr. Katherine Crichton.



That traditional model, however, is poorly suited to communicate with wider audiences. The gap between scientific evidence and public understanding has only grown. Scientists publish their findings in research journals, but few outside academia ever read them.



Meanwhile, media coverage distorts, simplifies, or omits vital details.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storytelling-makes-science-memorable">Storytelling makes science memorable</h2>



Stories are not just entertainment. They’re a means by which humans understand the world. We evolved with stories. We remember them. We feel them. And crucially, we act on them.



“Humans are inspired by stories. By telling better stories, scientists can help inspire meaningful action to protect ourselves by protecting our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-must-live-in-harmony-with-nature-to-create-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> and the planet,” said Dr. Crichton.



Narratives can drive change in ways data alone cannot. The authors cite philosopher Donna Haraway, who argues that life itself may not be at stake - but ways of living and dying are.



The issue is not that scientists don’t care. It’s that their writing style hides their humanity. It hides their hope, grief, wonder, and fear. This paper suggests it’s time to stop hiding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-missing-half-behind-the-science">The missing half: Behind the science</h2>



One of the most powerful ideas in the paper is the notion of a “dark twin” - the unspoken story behind the clean, published version of research. Inspired by scientist Merlin Sheldrake, this dark twin includes the chaos, serendipity, and emotional weight of doing science.



These are the parts that people connect with. How did the researcher feel when standing on a melting glacier? What was it like getting sick at high altitude while collecting soil samples in the Himalayas? These experiences reveal the full reality of science as a human endeavor.



The Exeter researchers even provide one such dark twin. It recounts fieldwork in Nepal, altitude sickness, meals cooked in remote lodges, and the scent of incense plants. The story reads like a travelogue, yet it builds up to a scientific insight. It shows how science actually happens - in the messiness of real life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-don-t-undermine-credibility">Emotions don't undermine credibility </h2>



The worry, of course, is that emotional stories could be seen as unscientific. That they might undermine credibility. But the authors argue otherwise. Emotions and storytelling don’t distort the science - they contextualize it.



“We study these ecosystems because we love them – but we are expected to be removed from our subjects,” noted Professor Angela Gallego-Sala.



That artificial distance limits how effectively scientists can communicate. Scientific journals enforce this distance through style guides and traditions. But those conventions don’t reflect the reality of how science is done - or why it matters.



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



If scientists don’t share their own stories, someone else will. And the public might hear only the loudest, most extreme narratives. Often, those are doom-laden headlines or overly simplified takes.



This imbalance creates despair or apathy. When every headline screams catastrophe, people may shut down emotionally. The paper warns against letting only the bleakest versions of science reach the public.



Hope matters, and so does empathy. Both can be built through honest, heartfelt storytelling. That’s why the authors argue for more stories that show resilience, solutions, and human connections to nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-storytelling-in-science-0">Emotional storytelling in science</h2>



There are already some success stories. Suzanne Simard’s use of terms like “mother trees” helped people understand and care about complex ecological systems. She faced criticism for using emotional language, yet her work reached millions.



“We’ve separated ourselves from nature so much that it’s to our own demise … The result is that we have loss of old-growth forests. Our fisheries are collapsing. We're in a mass extinction,” she said.



Simard’s approach proves that emotional, metaphor-rich storytelling can bring science to life. It helps people see nature not as a concept, but as kin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reimagining-the-role-of-the-scientist">Reimagining the role of the scientist</h2>



The paper makes another important point: scientists have the privilege of witnessing environmental change firsthand. They see the beauty and the damage. That perspective should not stay hidden.



By writing from the frontlines, scientists can show the stakes more clearly. They can make their work more transparent and accessible. They can also build public trust, which is eroding in an age of misinformation.



“There is plenty of other academic work that advocates for scientific storytelling. The problem is that these other pieces don’t demonstrate how this can be done,” Professor Anderson noted.



That’s what this paper offers - concrete examples, models, and encouragement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storytelling-brings-science-to-life">Storytelling brings science to life</h2>



The authors end with a clear invitation: experiment. Try new formats. Write personal biographies. Share the dark twin of your paper. Record videographic stories. Let readers see the journey, not just the results.



“It’s the start of a different type of experiment - an experiment with stories,” said Professor Anderson.



They argue that science communication should not be an afterthought. It should be treated with the same care and creativity as the research itself.



This is not about replacing data with feelings. It’s about recognizing that feelings are part of science too. That behind every study is a person who cared enough to ask a question and search for answers.



The perspective, published in <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pan3.70027">People and Nature</a>, is titled "We are storytelling apes: experimenting with new scientific narratives in a time of climate and biodiversity collapse."



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Storytelling can bring science to life and inspire action

Science has never existed in a vacuum. Yet, the way...

Why do some plant species grow and flourish only in certain places, while their close relatives take root in faraway landscapes? Scientists have wrestled with this mystery for years, hoping to understand how nature sets its limits.



A global investigation of nearly 270,000 seed plant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-future-climate-conditions-will-transform-plant-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> sheds new light on the environmental and historical factors that decide where vegetation can prosper.



The research was led by an international team that examined climate data, soil conditions, and ancient geologic events spanning millions of years. The break apart of the supercontinent Pangea due to plate tectonics is one significant event which saw a drastic change in plant life. 



The investigation's central findings trace back to work by Dr. Lirong Cai from the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a> and the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), who served as a key figure in this study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-grow-in-some-places-only">Plants grow in some places only</h2>



Many scientists argue that biodiversity is shaped by more than just random spread or occasional migration. 



Climate, <a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/soil-composition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil composition</a>, and geographical barriers are thought to play a strong part in keeping certain plant groups confined to specific locations. In turn, the locations become a place for unique plants to thrive.



Researchers have also turned to phylogenetic methods that track family trees over deep timescales. This <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.292.5517.673" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approach</a> helps reveal when a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-plants-cant-outrun-climate-change-on-their-own/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant group</a> encountered new conditions or broke past a barrier into another region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-soil-affect-plant-growth">Climate and soil affect plant growth</h2>



Temperature and moisture have long been recognized as strong regulators of distribution, influencing growth and survival. 



Some species can endure extreme cold, drought, or humidity better than others. This paves the way for plant growth to flourish or can restrict them to smaller pockets.



Shifts in habitat conditions can push certain lineages to adapt over time. Others may fail to survive these changes, leaving them behind as evidence of how vital the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-stop-absorbing-carbon-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> can be.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-stops-the-spread-of-plants">What stops the spread of plants?</h2>



Physical structures such as mountains, deserts, and vast oceans block species from expanding at certain stages. Younger plant lineages often get stranded, while older ones might have had more time to grow and overcome these obstacles.



Older plants are more accustomed to harsh weather and soil conditions. Not only have older plants had more time to grow than younger plants, older plants are familiar with the structures around them.



This familiarity gives older plant species an advantage which allows the plant to continue to grow without becoming trapped due to terrain or physical structures.



“These findings reveal a fundamental process in nature. Given enough time, plants can overcome the barriers of vast distances and geography, but they often remain limited by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a> they encounter,” said Dr. Cai.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-continents-changed-plant-paths">Shifting continents changed plant paths</h2>



Continents <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16701355/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drifted</a> into different positions between 20 and 50 million years ago, opening or closing routes that influenced plant travel.



This rearrangement had moderate impacts on long-term distribution, though it was more pronounced within that window of shifting plates.



Some groups of plants managed to traverse newly connected landmasses, while others remained clustered where they first took root. The lasting effect of those movements is still visible in the distribution <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-understanding-of-light-detection-in-plants-may-revolutionize-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> seen today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-plants-spread-more">Ancient plants spread more</h2>



Genetic evidence confirms that <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02599-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dispersal barriers</a> remain tough to conquer in the short run, even though ancient lineages managed to spread widely over longer intervals. 



Oceanic gaps and hostile climates slow down or halt these botanical journeys. Unfortunately, some plants cannot survive and spread in specific environments.



Because of this, environmental filtering stays a constant factor. Where the temperature or moisture swings too far from a species’ tolerance, the plants refuse to grow or venture there, no matter how long they have existed.



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



Ecologists see value in integrating more detailed geological reconstructions with modern species data. Climate fluctuations, like those in the past Ice Ages, also carry <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.292.5517.673" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clues</a> about how quickly species can respond or shift their homes.



A broader understanding may inspire efforts to protect fragile habitats. Some zones remain high-risk for plant extinctions if conditions change faster than species can grow or adapt.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02599-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Why don’t all plants grow everywhere across the world?

Why do some plant species grow and flourish only in...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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The Mexican beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum) is a species of lizard in the family Helodermatidae, one of the two species of venomous beaded lizards.

Mexican Bearded Lizard

The centipede species known as Scolopendra subspinipes is one particular species that is known for causing extremely painful sensations after transmitting venom. ... This centipede&nbsp;has been known to cause fatalities.

Mexican Bearded Lizard

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