Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Cyclone Chido, an intense tropical cyclone that caused unprecedented devastation across Southeast Africa in December 2024.



On December 14, Chido struck the islands of Mayotte with wind speeds exceeding 200 km/h (124 mph) and gusts over 225 km/h (140 mph), marking it as the most powerful storm to hit the French territory in at least 90 years.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyclone</a> ultimately made three landfalls - all with winds equivalent to those of a Category 4 tropical cyclone. According to media reports, authorities in Mayotte fear that hundreds and possibly thousands of people have died.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-intensification-of-chido">Rapid intensification of Chido</h2>



“Chido formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean on December 5, 2024. The disturbance rapidly intensified before hitting the Mauritian islands of Agaléga on December 11. The next day, the cyclone peaked in intensity, with sustained winds of about 250 kilometers (155 miles) per hour - equivalent to a strong Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson wind scale,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153708/cyclone-chido-pummels-mayotte" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Cyclone Chido continued to move west in an environment favorable for sustaining storms. That included warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a> of up to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and low vertical wind shear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastation-of-cyclone-chido-nbsp">Devastation of Cyclone Chido&nbsp;</h2>



The cyclone obliterated entire neighborhoods, particularly in hillside shantytowns inhabited by undocumented migrants. Official reports confirm at least 31 fatalities and thousands of injuries - though the actual death toll may be significantly higher.&nbsp;



The destruction in Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, has left approximately 100,000 people homeless. The aftermath has been characterized by a lack of visible assistance from authorities, with residents relying on community support amid concerns over hunger, disease outbreaks, and lawlessness.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landfall-in-mozambique-nbsp">Landfall in Mozambique&nbsp;</h2>



Following its impact on Mayotte, Chido continued westward, making landfall in Mozambique on December 15 near the city of Pemba as a strong Category 4-equivalent intense tropical cyclone.&nbsp;



The storm resulted in at least 34 deaths and 43 injuries across three northern provinces. In neighboring Malawi, Chido claimed two lives.&nbsp;



The cyclone's ferocity, fueled by warmer ocean temperatures attributed to climate change, has raised concerns about the increasing frequency and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intensity</a> of such storms in the region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-efforts-and-vulnerable-communities-nbsp">Recovery efforts and vulnerable communities&nbsp;</h2>



The crisis has highlighted the vulnerabilities of affected regions, particularly Mayotte, which faces challenges of poverty, overcrowding, and inadequate infrastructure.&nbsp;



The lack of preparedness and insufficient emergency response have drawn criticism, highlighting the need for improved disaster management and investment in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of future climate-induced disasters.&nbsp;



In response to the disaster, French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Mayotte, and relief efforts are underway, including the arrival of a ship carrying 180 tons of aid.&nbsp;



However, the scale of destruction and ongoing challenges in delivering assistance to remote and inaccessible areas continue to impede recovery efforts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-fueled-intensification-of-cyclones-nbsp">Climate-fueled intensification of cyclones&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-rising-impact-of-tropical-cyclones-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intensification of cyclones</a> due to climate change is a significant and concerning phenomenon. As global temperatures rise, warmer ocean waters provide the energy that fuels tropical cyclones, making them stronger and more destructive.&nbsp;



Higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-ocean-temperatures-highest-in-650-years-greatly-harming-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a> lead to increased evaporation, which adds more moisture to the atmosphere. This moisture can enhance the rainfall associated with cyclones, increasing the risk of flooding.&nbsp;



Additionally, rising sea levels, driven by the melting of polar ice caps and thermal expansion of seawater, exacerbate storm surge impacts, causing more extensive and severe coastal flooding during cyclonic events.



Changes in atmospheric conditions also play a role. While climate change may not increase the overall frequency of cyclones, it is likely to shift the distribution and intensity of these storms. For instance, studies suggest that a larger proportion of cyclones are reaching the most intense categories.&nbsp;



Furthermore, slower-moving cyclones, a trend linked to weakened steering currents, can linger longer over vulnerable areas, compounding the damage with prolonged heavy rainfall and strong winds.



These changes in cyclone behavior present challenges for disaster preparedness and response. Coastal communities, particularly in low-lying regions, are becoming increasingly vulnerable to the compounded impacts of more powerful storms, highlighting the urgent need for climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.



The image was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-20 satellite, about three hours after the storm made landfall.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Cyclone Chido’s path of destruction: A climate wake-up call

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan. It is one of the world's longest glaciers outside of the polar regions.&nbsp;



“An astronaut aboard the International Space Station took this photo of glaciers in the high-elevation valleys of the Pamir Mountains of Central Asia. The upper portion of Fedchenko Glacier crosses the center of the scene.”



NASA noted that most of the larger glaciers in the image show a prominent pattern of light- and dark-brown parallel lines.&nbsp;



“The darker ‘streamlines,’ known as medial moraines, give a sense of the direction of flow of the ice down the valleys. These are concentrations of debris that has been eroded by the glacier from the adjacent mountainsides or a rocky outcrop,” said NASA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fedchenko-a-high-altitude-glacier">Fedchenko: A high-altitude glacier</h2>



Fedchenko Glacier stretches for approximately 48 miles and covers an area of around 270 square miles. This massive glacier is a critical source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a>, feeding several rivers and influencing the region's hydrology.



Fedchenko Glacier lies at high altitudes, with its origins in the high peaks of the Pamirs, where snow accumulates heavily. Despite being situated in a relatively arid region, the glacier's significant size and volume are maintained by substantial snowfall.&nbsp;



Named after Alexei Pavlovich Fedchenko, a Russian explorer and naturalist, the glacier was first surveyed in 1928 during Soviet-era expeditions. It plays a crucial role in climate studies, as changes in its length and mass provide insights into the effects of global warming in Central Asia.&nbsp;



The glacier is also part of a spectacular and remote landscape, surrounded by towering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-preferred-the-mountains-and-it-changed-our-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> and rugged terrain, making it a key feature of the Pamirs' natural beauty.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-glaciers-worldwide">Threats to glaciers worldwide</h2>



Like many glaciers worldwide, Fedchenko faces the threat of retreat due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peru-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, raising concerns about water availability and ecosystem changes in the region.



Rising global temperatures caused by greenhouse gas emissions are the primary driver of glacier melting. Warmer temperatures not only melt glacier surfaces but also increase the flow of meltwater beneath them, accelerating their disintegration.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-and-pollution-nbsp">Human activities and pollution&nbsp;</h3>



Deforestation and urbanization exacerbate these effects by reducing reflective snow cover and increasing heat absorption in nearby areas.&nbsp;



Airborne pollutants like soot and black carbon darken glacier surfaces, reducing their ability to reflect sunlight and speeding up the rate of melting. 



Industrial activities and tourism in glacier regions add physical stress and pollution, further degrading these fragile ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-supplies">Water supplies</h3>



The loss of glaciers has far-reaching consequences. It disrupts freshwater supplies for millions of people who depend on glacial runoff for drinking water, agriculture, and hydropower.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-sea-levels">Rising sea levels</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melting glaciers</a> contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide. Additionally, the loss of glaciers impacts biodiversity, as many species rely on cold, glacial habitats for survival.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-glaciers">Protecting glaciers</h3>



Efforts to mitigate these threats focus on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-hidden-sources-of-greenhouse-gases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas</a> emissions, protecting glacier regions from industrial exploitation, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.&nbsp;



However, without urgent action, the continued decline of glaciers will have profound implications for the planet's climate, water systems, and ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pamir-mountains-nbsp">The Pamir Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



The Pamir Mountains, often called the "Roof of the World," are a vast and rugged mountain range located in Central Asia.&nbsp;



They span across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan, forming a vital part of the junction where the Himalayas, the Tian Shan, the Karakoram, the Kunlun, and the Hindu Kush converge.&nbsp;



With peaks soaring over 7,000 meters, including Ismoil Somoni Peak, the range is home to some of the highest altitudes on Earth.



The Pamir Mountains have been central to trade and cultural exchange for centuries, serving as a critical segment of the ancient Silk Road.&nbsp;



Today, the mountains are a popular destination for trekkers and explorers drawn by their breathtaking beauty and challenging terrain.



The Pamirs are not only a natural wonder but also a biological treasure trove, supporting unique wildlife that is adapted to extreme altitudes.&nbsp;



Culturally, the mountains are home to diverse communities, each with its unique traditions and ways of life, shaped by the harsh but majestic environment.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the spiral galaxy NGC 5643, which is located roughly 40 million light-years away in the constellation Lupus.&nbsp;



NGC 5643 belongs to the Hubble classification SBc, indicating that it is a barred spiral galaxy with loosely wound arms.&nbsp;



Its orientation, nearly face-on to Earth, provides astronomers with an exceptional view of its detailed spiral structure and central bar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-5643-a-grand-design-spiral-nbsp">NGC 5643: A grand design spiral&nbsp;</h2>



“NGC 5643 is what’s known as a grand design spiral, referring to how the galaxy’s two large, winding spiral arms are clear to see,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images">ESA</a>. “The spiral arms are defined by bright blue stars, lacy reddish-brown dust clouds and pink star-forming regions.”



“As fascinating as the galaxy appears at visible wavelengths, some of NGC 5643’s most interesting features are invisible to the human eye.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-activity-in-ngc-5643">Intense activity in NGC 5643</h2>



This galaxy is notable for its Seyfert 2 nucleus, a type of active galactic nucleus (AGN). The intense activity in its core is powered by a supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/awakening-of-a-black-hole-witnessed-for-the-first-time/">black hole</a> that accretes surrounding material, emitting energy across a wide range of wavelengths.&nbsp;



“When a supermassive black hole ensnares gas from its surroundings, the gas collects in a disc that heats up to hundreds of thousands of degrees. The superheated gas shines brightly across the electromagnetic spectrum, but especially at X-ray wavelengths,” said ESA.



Observations have revealed jets and outflows of material emanating from the nucleus, likely driven by the black hole’s activity.&nbsp;



NGC 5643’s AGN has been studied extensively for its role in galactic evolution, particularly in how its energetic processes interact with the galaxy’s interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mystery-of-ngc-5643-x-1">The mystery of NGC 5643 X-1</h2>



However, ESA pointed out that NGC 5643’s active galactic nucleus isn’t the brightest source of X-rays in the galaxy.&nbsp;



“Researchers using ESA’s XMM-Newton discovered an even brighter X-ray-emitting object, called NGC 5643 X-1, on the galaxy’s outskirts. What could be a more powerful source of X-rays than a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-black-holes-become-supermassive/">supermassive black hole</a>?”&nbsp;



“Surprisingly, the answer appears to be a much smaller black hole! While the exact identity of NGC 5643 X-1 is not yet known, evidence points to a black hole that is about 30 times more massive than the Sun.”&nbsp;



“Locked in an orbital dance with a companion star, the black hole ensnares gas from its stellar companion, creating a superheated disc that outshines the galactic center,” said ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-5643">Star formation in NGC 5643</h2>



NGC 5643 also exhibits prominent regions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/">star formation</a> within its spiral arms. These areas are rich in gas and dust - the raw materials for birthing new stars - and glow brightly in ultraviolet and infrared light.&nbsp;



Observations from the Hubble Space Telescope and the Very Large Telescope (VLT) have helped uncover the complex interplay between star formation and the galaxy's central activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-ionized-gas-regions-nbsp">Extended ionized gas regions&nbsp;</h2>



A defining feature of NGC 5643 is the presence of its extended ionized gas regions, which are shaped by the galaxy's AGN activity and star-forming regions.&nbsp;



These structures have been mapped through optical spectroscopy, revealing intricate patterns that help astronomers understand the physical conditions of the gas, such as density, temperature, and composition.



The galaxy also has a dust lane that crosses its nucleus, partially obscuring direct observations of the central region in visible light.&nbsp;



Overall, NGC 5643 offers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamics of barred <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/">spiral galaxies</a> with active nuclei, serving as a valuable resource for studying the interactions between supermassive black holes, star formation, and galactic evolution.



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



Lupus is a constellation located in the southern sky, its name meaning "wolf" in Latin. It has been known since antiquity and was cataloged by the Greek astronomer Ptolemy.&nbsp;



Once part of the larger constellation Centaurus, Lupus was later recognized as a distinct constellation. It is relatively faint but holds historical significance in mythology, often associated with a sacrificial wolf in ancient stories.



Lupus is bordered by other constellations like Scorpius, Centaurus, and Libra. Its stars do not form a particularly striking pattern, but it contains a variety of interesting astronomical features. Among them are numerous double stars, globular clusters, and other deep-sky objects, visible through telescopes.&nbsp;



For observers in the Southern Hemisphere, Lupus is best seen in the winter and spring months, while it appears closer to the horizon for those in northern latitudes.



This constellation also lies along the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/">Milky Way</a>, offering a rich field of stars and nebulae for stargazers. Despite its modest brightness, Lupus holds a special place in the science of astronomy.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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NGC 5643: Secrets of a spiraling galactic powerhouse

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Mount Nemrut: Ancient mysteries and natural marvels 

How do you explain these animals that have huge brains, jelloid forms that can fit through tiny openings, and complex nervous systems? Did we mention they’re also camouflage masters? They're highly skilled at hiding in plain sight from predators. They practically have it all! And according to one group of researchers, they're too incredible to have just evolved in the sea. Photo Credit: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

Aquatic wonders

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts, seeds, and grains, but a groundbreaking new study reveals an unexpected twist in their behavior.&nbsp;



Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, have discovered that California ground squirrels also hunt, kill, and eat voles.&nbsp;



This surprising finding, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10164-024-00832-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Ethology</a>, marks the first documented evidence of widespread carnivorous behavior among squirrels.



The findings fundamentally challenge long-held assumptions about California ground squirrels as primarily granivorous. Instead, the study suggests that these animals are opportunistic omnivores, capable of adjusting their diet to include meat when the opportunity arises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shocking-discovery-of-carnivorous-squirrels">A shocking discovery of carnivorous squirrels</h2>



The surprising observations occurred in 2024 during the 12th year of the Long-term Behavioral Ecology of California Ground Squirrels Project at Briones Regional Park in Contra Costa County.&nbsp;



Study lead author Jennifer E. Smith is an associate professor of biology at UW-Eau Claire who co-leads the project with Sonja Wild of UC Davis.&nbsp;



Over the course of June and July, the researchers recorded 74 interactions between squirrels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prairie-voles-can-form-bonds-without-oxytocin/">voles</a>, 42% of which involved active hunting by the squirrels.



“This was shocking,” said Professor Smith. “We had never seen this behavior before. Squirrels are one of the most familiar animals to people. We see them right outside our windows; we interact with them regularly.”&nbsp;



“Yet here’s this never-before-encountered in science behavior that sheds light on the fact that there’s so much more to learn about the natural history of the world around us.”



Even for Wild, a seasoned observer of ground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-affects-ground-squirrels-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">squirrels</a>, the behavior was initially hard to believe.&nbsp;



When undergraduate students first reported seeing squirrels hunting voles, Wild admitted skepticism. “No, I’m not sure what you’re referring to,” she said, until she watched the video evidence.



“I could barely believe my eyes,” Wild recounted. “From then, we saw that behavior almost every day. Once we started looking, we saw it everywhere.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunists-in-a-changing-landscape">Opportunists in a changing landscape</h2>



The study documented squirrels of all ages and genders hunting and consuming voles, often competing over the prey. This behavior peaked in early July, coinciding with a sudden increase in vole populations reported by citizen scientists on <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iNaturalist</a>.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the researchers observed squirrels hunting only voles and no other mammals, suggesting that the behavior arose in response to the temporary abundance of this particular prey.



Wild emphasized the adaptability of California ground squirrels in the face of environmental changes.&nbsp;



“The fact that California ground squirrels are behaviorally flexible and can respond to changes in food availability might help them persist in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-learning-speed-keeping-pace-with-a-changing-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a> rapidly changing due to the presence of humans.”



Smith echoed this sentiment, pointing to the broader trend of mammals adapting to human-altered landscapes.&nbsp;



“Many species, including the California ground squirrel, are incredible opportunists,” she said. “From raccoons and coyotes to spotted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/friendly-hyenas-more-likely-to-engage-in-mobbing-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hyenas</a> and humans, the flexibility these mammals apply to their hunting strategies helps them change and adapt with the human landscape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-for-future-research">Questions for future research</h2>



While the discovery sheds new light on ground squirrel behavior, it raises numerous questions about the ecological and evolutionary implications of their hunting habits. The researchers are particularly curious about how widespread this behavior is among other squirrel populations and whether it is learned or instinctual.



“Through this collaboration and the data coming in, we’re able to document this widespread behavior that we had no idea was going on,” Smith said. “Digital technology can inform the science, but there’s no replacement for going out there and witnessing the behavior because what animals are doing always surprises us.”



The team also plans to investigate whether vole hunting has any impact on squirrel reproduction, comparing data from this year to the previous decade.



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



This discovery of carnivorous behavior in California ground squirrels adds a fascinating layer to our understanding of a species we thought we knew well. It demonstrates not only the behavioral flexibility of these animals but also highlights the value of direct observation and collaboration in scientific research.



The findings suggest that even the most familiar animals can surprise us with behaviors that challenge established assumptions. As researchers prepare for next year’s field season, they remain eager to uncover what other secrets these seemingly ordinary squirrels might reveal.



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First evidence of carnivorous squirrels documented in California

Ground squirrels are commonly associated with their diet of nuts,...

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction in the face of climate change. Led by Professor Peter Mumby from The University of Queensland, the research found that corals must be within a few meters of each other to reproduce successfully.



This surprising discovery has significant implications for coral survival, as warming oceans and other climate impacts continue to decimate reefs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-in-coral-reproduction">Factors in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team measured the success of a natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-illuminates-fish-interactions-in-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral spawning</a> event in March this year. 



“In what came as a surprise, we saw that corals needed to be within 10 metres (32.8 feet) of one another, and preferably closer than that for fertilization to take place,” explained Professor Mumby.



The team’s findings revealed a stark reality. Fertilization rates averaged 30% when corals were very close to each other. However, this figure dropped to less than 10% at a separation of 10 meters (32.8 feet) and was virtually zero at distances beyond 20 meters (65.6 feet).



“We knew corals couldn’t be too far apart, but we found they need to be closer than we’d expected,” noted Professor Mumby.



“Climate change impacts like bleaching are killing and reducing the density of corals, so we’re concerned that individuals may end up too far apart to reproduce successfully.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-proximity-in-coral-reproduction">Importance of proximity in coral reproduction</h2>



The research team set up their experiment on a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-seeding-increases-resistance-to-extreme-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> in Palau, Micronesia. They placed containers above 26 coral colonies during a spawning event, capturing eggs and allowing sperm from nearby corals to enter the containers.



“The containers captured some of each corals’ eggs and drifted to the surface where they followed the tide,” said Professor Mumby.



“Although the eggs could not escape, sperm could enter the container and fertilize the eggs. After an hour of drifting, the proportion of fertilized eggs was noted for each type of coral, along with the distance to similar established corals.”



The results demonstrated the importance of proximity among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">corals</a> for successful reproduction.



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



The findings from <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Queensland</a> highlight how climate change exacerbates challenges for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/multivitamins-could-save-coral-reefs-from-climate-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral populations</a>. Bleaching events and other stressors not only kill corals but also reduce their density, making reproduction increasingly difficult.



Dr. Christopher Doropoulos from <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a>, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of coral reproduction for population resilience and evolution.



“In the future, we may need to help corals continue this key part of their lives,” said Dr. Doropoulos. “Understanding the importance of local neighbourhoods provides tangible targets for interventions like coral restoration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-efforts-and-future-directions">Restoration efforts and future directions</h2>



Coral restoration emerges as a vital strategy to combat this reproductive challenge. 



“Ideally, the density of corals would be monitored at important locations and restoration carried out to return the density back to the levels required for successful reproduction,” Dr. Doropoulos added.



Professor Mumby highlighted the significance of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-could-vanish-if-temperatures-continue-to-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restoration</a> efforts. 



“Our work over the past 5 years on the Great Barrier Reef through the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program is also helping to define these critical thresholds to help restoration practitioners set targets for density to help maintain coral populations,” said Professor Mumby.



The study, funded by the McCusker Foundation and the Australian Government’s Reef Restoration &amp; Adaptation Program, provides actionable insights for coral conservation. 



By identifying critical density thresholds, researchers hope to guide interventions that can enhance coral reproduction and resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-amidst-challenges">Hope amidst challenges</h2>



This research highlights how vulnerable coral populations are, and emphasizes the critical need for focused <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts.



Climate change, through factors like ocean warming and bleaching, is making coral survival increasingly difficult. However, studies like this provide essential insights for scientists and conservationists to better protect coral reefs. 



The key finding - that corals need to be close to each other for reproduction - can guide efforts to ensure they remain healthy and viable. If corals are not able to reproduce due to greater distances between them, it could lead to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-largest-coral-bleaching-event-is-now-underway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline of these vital ecosystems</a>.



Ensuring corals are sufficiently close for successful reproduction is therefore crucial in maintaining and preserving coral reefs for the future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2418314121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Corals count on nearby neighbors for successful reproduction

A recent study highlights a critical challenge for coral reproduction...

You may have come across axolotls - those smiling amphibians with pink, plume-like gills - in pet stores, as plush toys, or even featured in video games. 



Yet, their growing presence in popular culture has emerged just as the wild population of this remarkable species faces critical endangerment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-axolotls-have-become-a-cultural-icon">Axolotls have become a cultural icon</h2>



James Monaghan, a biology professor at <a href="https://www.northeastern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northeastern University</a>, has long studied axolotls and their extraordinary regenerative capabilities. “Axolotls have just exploded in popularity the past couple of years,” he said. 



Monaghan recalled that when he began his PhD studies, the general public had little idea what an axolotl was.&nbsp;



“No one knew in the general public what an axolotl was, so I'd have to explain,” he remembered, contrasting that with today’s situation: “Now I just can say, 'Oh, I work on axolotls,' and everyone just lights up.”



Monaghan noted that young people, in particular, have been drawn to axolotls, most likely due to their aesthetic charm.&nbsp;



“They're pink, they have feathers,” he said. “Well, they don't really have feathers, but their gills are feathery. They have a constant little smile on their face. If you were to create a cute animal that you couldn't think existed naturally, it's kind of the axolotl. It's got the vibes of a dragon, but a nice dragon.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-ancient-roots-to-gaming-stardom">From ancient roots to gaming stardom</h2>



The axolotl is no newcomer to cultural significance. “It's named after an Aztec god, Xolotl,” Monaghan explained, referencing its deep ties to Mexican heritage. Initially found in Lake Xochimilco near Mexico City, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-40-of-amphibians-face-extinction-due-to-escalating-climate-threats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amphibian</a>’s recent surge in popularity has transcended borders.



Its presence in mainstream culture can be traced in part to its introduction into the world of Minecraft, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-violent-video-games-impact-the-human-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">video game</a> of immense popularity.&nbsp;



“Minecraft is enormously popular for young players. The game allows for social play, exploration, sandbox style play where you can make anything,” said Northeastern assistant professor of computer science Alexandra To. By featuring axolotls, the game inspires curiosity and a desire to learn.&nbsp;



“Minecraft provides players great intrinsic motivation to discover more about any new elements that are added to the game,” To added.



In some cases, this might involve players constructing elaborate environments to house every in-game creature. “As my own partner did, in embarking on a project to create an enormous zoo with every in-world animal,” she remarked.



Monaghan suggests that axolotls may have also influenced other media. “I don't know if it's actually the motivation for 'How To Train Your Dragon,'” he said, pointing out that the character Toothless resembles an axolotl with its perpetual smile and ear-like flaps suggesting feathery gills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance-of-axolotls-nbsp">Scientific significance of axolotls&nbsp;</h2>



While their looks and cultural presence have captured public affection, axolotls are scientifically remarkable as well. Their regenerative powers extend beyond limbs. Monaghan’s lab has found that they can regenerate a large portion or their lung.&nbsp;



“They are notoriously resistant to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-is-the-next-frontier-in-cancer-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancers</a>, never get infections after an injury,” he said, and can live for up to two decades - qualities that have made them valuable subjects of study for generations.



“Axolotls are the longest standing lab animal of any animal, longer than flies, longer than worms, longer than mice,” Monaghan said. First collected in 1864 from Lake Xochimilco, their initial appeal stemmed from their unusual, fully aquatic life cycle.&nbsp;



Over time, they became critical for studies on genetics, development, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-sheds-light-on-the-pathways-of-plant-regeneration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regeneration</a>. With modern genetic tools like CRISPR, researchers can now pinpoint which genes drive their regenerative capabilities.



All lab and pet axolotls today descend from that original 19th-century population, and this lineage includes the distinct white axolotl familiar to fans worldwide.&nbsp;



“The white axolotl, which seems to be pretty much every stuffed animal that's out there, is actually a mutation of a single animal that was collected in 1864,” Monaghan explained. “You can get color variants, but the pink variety - that's from one founding animal.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-species-in-peril">A species in peril</h2>



As axolotls capture hearts around the globe, their wild counterparts hover on the brink of extinction. Once, locals could easily scoop them from Lake Xochimilco’s waters.&nbsp;



“Maybe up to the 1950s, you could put a net in Lake Xochimilco, the canal system, and pull up adult axolotls. And then every decade since, it's just crashed,” Monaghan said. “To the point now that they're critically endangered, and it takes weeks to even find one.”



They are exquisitely sensitive to environmental changes. “Being an amphibian, you're at the whim of your environment. You're taking in everything through your water,” he explained.&nbsp;



Climate change warms these waters, making survival harder, while pollution and introduced species further destroy fragile habitats and devour axolotl eggs.



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



Given their success in captivity, one might assume we could simply return these lab and pet lineages to Lake Xochimilco. But it’s not that simple.&nbsp;



“It's probably not the best strategy to take a species that's been inbred since 1864 and reintroduce it into its natural habitat,” Monaghan said.&nbsp;



The modern axolotl has adapted to controlled conditions, while its original environment has changed drastically.&nbsp;



“We can't take the current axolotl and put it into the environment in Mexico City and expect them to thrive the same way as the original collection in 1864. The environment's changed, but the animals themselves have changed.”



Still, rising awareness may help efforts to protect the axolotl’s wild habitat. According to To, the team behind Minecraft has embraced conservation as part of its mission.&nbsp;



“Mojang has been pretty transparent about conservation as one of their core values,” she explained. “The inclusion of axolotls and their in-game rareness mirroring their real-world endangered status is a fantastic example of how game mechanics can reinforce educational messages.”



Monaghan is involved as well, serving on the advisory board of the Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center to support both scientific understanding and conservation. “Those direct efforts could really go a long way toward saving the axolotl,” he said.



All this attention suggests that the axolotl’s time has arrived. “All of a sudden, it seems to be absolutely everywhere,” Monaghan said.&nbsp; Yet, for all the joy and fascination these creatures provide, the work to secure their future in the wild is only just beginning.



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Axolotls have exploded in popularity, but they are fighting for survival

You may have come across axolotls - those smiling amphibians...

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging to the extinct species Othniophyton elongatum, a name that translates to “alien plant.” Initially, researchers speculated it might be part of the ginseng family.&nbsp;



However, new discoveries have turned this assumption on its head. Recent fossil specimens reveal that this ancient plant is even stranger than previously thought, challenging how scientists classify extinct flora.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alien-plant-with-an-unknown-family">Alien plant with an unknown family</h2>



Steven Manchester, curator of paleobotany at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, has spent years studying 47-million-year-old fossils from Utah.&nbsp;



During a visit to the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, Manchester encountered an unusually well-preserved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant fossil</a> from the same area as the original Othniophyton elongatum leaves. This fossil included leaves, fruits, and flowers attached to a woody stem - a rare find.



“This fossil is rare in having the twig with attached fruits and leaves. Usually those are found separately,” Manchester said.



Further analysis revealed that these fossils were from the same species as the 1969 find. However, the new evidence showed that Othniophyton elongatum didn’t fit within the ginseng family - or any other known plant family.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-plant-with-no-living-relatives">A plant with no living relatives</h2>



To uncover the origins of Othniophyton elongatum, Manchester and his colleagues compared the physical features of the fossils to over 400 modern plant families. Despite their extensive search, they couldn’t find a match.



“There are many things for which we have good evidence to put in a modern family or genus, but you can’t always shoehorn these things,” Manchester said.



This was the case with Othniophyton elongatum. Its peculiar combination of traits - including leaves, fruits, and flowers - defied placement in any known group. Even extinct families failed to provide a fit.



The research highlights a significant challenge in paleobotany: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-plants-on-earth-could-be-saved-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinct plants</a> from less than 65 million years ago are often assigned to modern families or genera.&nbsp;



This practice can distort our understanding of ancient biodiversity, creating the false impression that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric ecosystems</a> were more similar to today’s than they actually were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-fossils-from-an-ancient-lake">Strange fossils from an ancient lake</h2>



The fossils were discovered in the Green River Formation near the ghost town of Rainbow in eastern Utah. This formation, a massive inland lake system 47 million years ago, provided ideal conditions for preserving plants and animals in remarkable detail.



Low-oxygen sediments and volcanic ash slowed decomposition, resulting in the preservation of fish, reptiles, birds, and plants, including the fossils of Othniophyton elongatum.&nbsp;



However, the original specimens collected in 1969 offered limited information. Researchers could only analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-had-complex-leaf-vein-networks-200-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leaves</a>, which resembled compound leaves commonly found in the ginseng family.



New fossils, though, painted a very different picture. Leaves attached directly to stems, rather than in a compound arrangement, ruled out the ginseng family.&nbsp;



Additional features, including the plant’s fruits and flowers, ruled out other families like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fairy-circles-kill-all-newly-planted-grasses-deepening-their-mystery/">grasses</a> and magnolias. Even with such detailed specimens, the team remained stumped.



“The two twigs we found show the same kind of leaf attached, but they're not compound. They’re simple, which eliminates the possibility of it being anything in that family,” Manchester explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-look-at-the-alien-plant">A new look at the alien plant</h2>



For years, the fossils sat in storage as researchers struggled to make sense of them. Then, new technology offered a breakthrough. The Florida Museum of Natural History established a microscopy workstation that allowed the team to examine the fossils in unprecedented detail.



Using a digital microscope with computer-enhanced shadow illumination, Manchester and his colleagues discovered features they had previously missed. The minute fruits revealed micro-impressions of their internal anatomy, including developing seeds.



“Normally we don't expect to see that preserved in these types of fossils, but maybe we've been overlooking it because our equipment didn’t pick up that kind of topographic relief,” Manchester said.



One of the most striking aspects was the plant’s stamens, the male reproductive organs of its flowers. In most plants, stamens detach after fertilization, but in Othniophyton elongatum, they remain attached to the mature fruits - an unusual trait not seen in any modern plant.



“Usually, stamens will fall away as the fruit develops. And this thing seems unusual in that it's retaining the stamens at the time it has mature fruits with seeds ready to disperse. We haven't seen that in anything modern,” Manchester noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-ancient-ecosystems">Shedding light on ancient ecosystems</h2>



The study’s lead author, Julian Correa-Narvaez, a doctoral student at the University of Florida, emphasized the importance of the discovery. “It’s important because it gives us a little bit of a clue about how these organisms were evolving and adapting in different places,” he said.



The diversity within plant families can be astonishing. For example, seemingly unrelated species like poison ivy, cashews, and mangoes belong to the same family, which contains over 800 species. However, with Othniophyton elongatum, scientists can only speculate about how much diversity has been lost to time.



Similar discoveries from the Green River Formation have unveiled other extinct plant groups, showing that it remains a rich site for paleobotanical mysteries.&nbsp;



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



Digital tools like <a href="https://www.idigbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iDigBio</a>, which allow researchers to access museum specimens remotely, are helping to unlock these mysteries and advance our understanding of plant evolution.



The discovery of Othniophyton elongatum not only expands our knowledge of extinct plants but also challenges assumptions about how ancient ecosystems functioned.&nbsp;



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcae196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Botany</a>, this study serves as a reminder of how much remains to be discovered in the fossil record - and how evolving technology can illuminate the secrets of the distant past.



Image Credit: Florida Museum of Natural History photo by Jeff Gage



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Fossil mystery: The ‘alien plant’ that defies classification

In 1969, paleobotanists identified fossilized leaves in eastern Utah belonging...

Orphaned apes, like bonobos, victimized by illegal trade practices, are showing the world their resilience. They can bounce back from traumatic experiences and develop social capabilities akin to those raised in their natural habitats.



A recent study conducted by researchers at Durham University sheds light on the social and emotional development of orphaned bonobos and the impact of rehabilitation efforts.



The findings highlight the potential for orphans to develop critical social abilities, even after experiencing early-life trauma. The study, spanning 10 years, involved observations at Lola ya Bonobo, the world’s only bonobo sanctuary located in the Democratic Republic of Congo.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plight-of-bonobos">Plight of bonobos</h2>



Bonobos, like chimpanzees, share a very close evolutionary history with humans, making them one of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-group-cohesion-common-enemy-effect-do-not-kill-inside-their-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearest living relatives</a> in the animal kingdom. Both species are genetically similar to humans, which is why scientists study them to better understand human behavior and evolution.



Bonobos are found exclusively in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Central Africa, where they live in the wild. 



Unfortunately, these apes face several dangers, such as logging (cutting down trees) and illegal activities like hunting for bushmeat (the meat of wild animals). These practices severely harm bonobo populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-skills-of-orphaned-bonobos">Emotional skills of orphaned bonobos</h2>



One of the most damaging effects of these illegal activities is that young bonobos are often taken from their mothers. 



Losing their mothers at a young age means that these orphaned bonobos miss out on the vital care and socialization they would normally receive in their natural environment. 



Without maternal care, young bonobos face difficulties in learning important social behaviors and emotional skills. 



For example, they may not learn how to interact with others properly, show empathy, or understand group dynamics - which are all crucial for their survival and well-being in the wild.



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



The researchers aimed to understand how rehabilitation at Lola ya Bonobo affects the development of orphaned bonobos compared to their mother-reared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-are-thriving-in-salonga-national-park/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">counterparts</a>.



The team examined critical traits like empathy, social skills, and aggression across different life stages and sexes.



“The Lola ya Bonobo sanctuary does vital work in protecting this vulnerable species. While the orphans’ social development is not equivalent to that of their mother-reared counterparts, they overlap in the development and behaviours they display,” said study lead author Stephanie Kordon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orphaned-bonobos-after-rehab">Orphaned bonobos after rehab</h2>



The research revealed that female bonobos’ social skills increased with age, consistent with the female-led nature of bonobo societies.



Conversely, male bonobos showed a decline in social skills as they aged. Although orphaned bonobos exhibited reduced social abilities compared to mother-reared ones, they still demonstrated species-typical behaviors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empathy-in-orphaned-bonobos">Empathy in orphaned bonobos</h2>



Orphaned bonobos were less likely to show empathetic behaviors, such as comforting distressed peers.



However, their ability to console others, while reduced, remained within the range observed in mother-reared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-are-more-endangered-than-previously-known/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bonobos</a>. This indicates they retain sufficient skills to function in social groups, crucial for their survival in the wild.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aggression-dynamics">Aggression dynamics</h2>



Mother-reared and older female bonobos displayed higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peaceful-bonobos-are-actually-more-aggressive-than-chimps/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">levels of aggression</a>, while younger and male bonobos were more often victims. However, the way bonobos were reared did not influence their likelihood of being targeted by aggression.



“While we cannot say the orphaned bonobos are absolutely rehabilitated, our findings do show a good direction to their social function as we are seeing them demonstrate species-typical behaviors within low but normal ranges,” said study senior author Professor Zanna Clay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-development-in-orphaned-bonobos">Social development in orphaned bonobos</h2>



The research from <a href="https://www.durham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Durham University</a> offers a rare glimpse into how early-life experiences shape the social and emotional development of bonobos. 



By comparing orphaned and mother-reared bonobos, the study highlights the resilience of orphaned individuals and the critical role that sanctuaries play in aiding their recovery.



“By better understanding the healthy social development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-cooperation-challenges-beliefs-about-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bonobos</a>, we aim to help the important rehabilitation and conservation efforts of this unique species,” noted Kordon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-conservation-goals">Broader conservation goals</h2>



Bonobo rehabilitation not only helps individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-are-more-interested-in-the-emotions-of-strangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">apes</a> but also contributes to broader conservation goals. By reintroducing socially competent bonobos into the wild, efforts like those at Lola ya Bonobo ensure the survival and well-being of this endangered species. 



While challenges remain, the findings offer hope for orphaned bonobos and reinforce the value of dedicated sanctuaries in conservation.



The research team included experts from <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a> and <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a> in the United States. 



The work was funded by the Templeton World Charity Foundation’s Diverse Intelligences initiative and a European Research Council Horizon 2020 Starting Grant.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.240435" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Orphaned bonobos can regain social skills and empathy

Orphaned apes, like bonobos, victimized by illegal trade practices, are...

What is your idea of solitude? Is it hiking alone in a dense forest or is it as simple as reading your favorite book in a café while sipping on coffee? 



New research from Oregon State University suggests that while some alone time can be very beneficial, intense solitude may not be the best path to energy restoration and social connectedness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solitude-and-social-connectedness">Solitude and social connectedness </h2>



The research was led by Professor Morgan Quinn Ross of <a href="https://oregonstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and Scott Campbell, a scholar from Ohio State University (<a href="https://www.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSU</a>).



The study highlights the nuanced role of solitude in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-rejection-teaches-us-valuable-lessons-about-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">promoting connectedness</a> - a vital factor for overall health.



According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a>), strong social ties correlate with a longer lifespan, improved mental health, and a reduced risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and dementia.



The findings emphasize the importance of understanding how different types of solitude contribute to this dynamic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-social-interactions-with-solitude">Balancing social interactions with solitude</h2>



The researchers surveyed nearly 900 adults in the United States. 



The findings suggest that less intense forms of solitude (such as playing mobile games or attending a movie alone) offer benefits that more isolated experiences (like a solitary drive in the desert) may lack. 



“We learned that less complete solitude is more likely to restore energy and maintain a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-observation-our-decisions-shift-when-people-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feeling of connection</a> with others,” noted Professor Ross.



“In a world where social interaction is almost always just a click away, we need to understand how to balance social interaction with different types of solitude.”



The researchers introduced a matrix of solitude, ranging from a base level of no interaction with people to a total level where individuals are entirely inaccessible and disengaged from media. 



This framework helped them explore whether complete solitude maximizes restoration, while partial solitude promotes relatedness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-and-social-connection-the-paradox">Energy and social connection: The paradox</h2>



A key aspect of the study was examining how solitude interacts with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-stress-harms-the-brains-of-low-status-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social energy</a> - a metaphorical battery that can be fully charged, partially charged, or drained through social interaction.



The Communicate Bond Belong theory suggests a tradeoff: social interactions build connection but deplete energy, while solitude restores energy at the cost of connection.



Professor Ross’s findings challenge this view. “Our study suggests that solitude is in fact not the flipside of social interaction,” she noted.



“Whereas more intense social interaction yields connection but depletes energy, more intense solitude depletes both energy and connection. Solitude does not seem to function simply as a way to regain energy used in social interaction.”



Interestingly, the impact of solitude depends on an individual’s perspective. Solitude was less detrimental for those who believed it helped them restore energy and maintain connection, regardless of how draining their social interactions were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-takeaways-for-solitude-seekers">Practical takeaways for solitude seekers</h2>



Professor Ross offered practical advice for those seeking solitude.



“If you have a positive attitude toward solitude - because you use it to restore energy and know that you will be able to connect with people later - then choosing solitude will probably make you feel better,” said Professor Ross.



“But if you choose solitude because of a negative attitude toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survival-of-the-friendliest-social-animals-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interaction</a> - because you don’t want to talk to people - it will probably make you feel worse.”



This insight applies to both extroverts and introverts. Regardless of personality type, approaching solitude constructively and with a clear purpose enhances its benefits. 



Activities that blend solitude with light social engagement or media use - such as enjoying music or reading in a lively environment - can help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-friendships-improve-your-health-as-you-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individuals feel connected</a> and energized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-well-being-and-restoration">Implications for well-being and restoration </h2>



The findings highlight solitude’s role in shaping well-being. In an increasingly connected world, understanding how to navigate the balance between interaction and solitude is crucial. 



The research highlights the value of intentionally choosing solitude that aligns with personal motivations and energy needs.



For many, solitude remains an essential aspect of life. This study serves as a reminder to approach it thoughtfully, ensuring that time alone supports both restoration and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-trust-news-that-matches-their-political-views-even-when-its-fake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">connectedness</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0311738" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Solitude can restore energy and well-being, but not if it's too intense

What is your idea of solitude? Is it hiking alone...

Space can surprise even those who spend their lives studying it. People often think of our solar system as just a few planets and a bunch of empty space. 



Yet new observations suggest we have been living inside a hot, less dense region, and that there may even be a strange cosmic channel connecting us to distant stars.



After years of careful mapping, a new analysis reveals what appears to be a channel of hot, low-density plasma stretching out from our solar system toward distant constellations. Astronomers from the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/institutes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> recently confirmed it using data from the <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2021/03/aa39313-20/aa39313-20.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eRosita instrument</a>. Dr. L. L. Sala, lead researcher, and colleagues shared these findings in a paper published in the journal <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/10/aa51045-24/aa51045-24.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-the-familiar">Looking beyond the familiar</h2>



For a long time, scientists have known that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-space-station-observes-something-unknown-55-miles-above-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> sits within a peculiar region of space called the <a href="https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/11550" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Local Hot Bubble</a>. 



This area, estimated to be <a href="https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-astro-081710-102613" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">about 300 light years across</a>, formed as a result of powerful stellar explosions called supernovas. They heated the surrounding gas, producing a low-density, high-temperature environment. Traces of these distant events still linger as wispy distributions of hot plasma. “We find the temperature of the LHB exhibits a north-south dichotomy at high latitudes,” stated Dr. L. L. Sala, lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cosmic-x-ray-explorer">A cosmic X-ray explorer</h2>



To better understand this environment, scientists turned to eRosita. This X-ray observatory, launched as part of the <a href="https://heasarc.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/srg/#:~:text=The%20scientific%20spacecraft%20%22Spectrum%2DRoentgen,of%20galaxies%20will%20be%20marked." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spectrum-Roentgen-Gamma mission</a>, scoured the sky to capture soft X-ray emissions. One of eRosita’s goals is to chart hot gas in space, learn about supernova remnants, and investigate the surroundings of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-anticipated-comet-of-2024-returns-this-weekend-after-80000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our neighborhood</a>. 



By combining these results with older data from <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/rosat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ROSAT</a>, another X-ray survey, astronomers have pieced together a more detailed picture of our local region. They took on the challenging <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2013/10/aa22221-13/aa22221-13.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">task</a> of dividing the sky into thousands of bins, extracting subtle signals of warm gas, <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/502/4/5779/6131844" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust cavities</a>, and interstellar structures. This painstaking approach helped isolate the faint glow of the surrounding plasma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-puzzling-cosmic-channel">Puzzling cosmic channel</h2>



What stands out is the detection of a channel, or “tunnel,” that appears to stretch toward the <a href="https://www.constellation-guide.com/constellation-list/centaurus-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centaurus constellation</a>. 



This feature seems to punch through the hot material, connecting our neighborhood to distant star systems. 



Another such pathway appears to link toward the vicinity of <a href="https://www.constellation-guide.com/constellation-list/canis-major-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canis Major</a>. Data hints these might be just one part of a larger, branching network of channels that run between star-forming regions and pockets of heated gas.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/milky-way_local-hot-bubble_eRosita_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/milky-way_local-hot-bubble_eRosita_1s.webp" alt="3D map of the Milky Way’s Local Hot Bubble (LHB) created from eROSITA data reveals a low-density region around the solar system, heated by ancient supernovas. The bubble shows temperature gradients and an interstellar “tunnel” toward Centaurus, likely formed by young stars’ winds. This bubble may connect to other superbubbles, shaping the Milky Way’s structure. The solar system entered the LHB a few million years ago, adding to our understanding of its cosmic neighborhood. Credit: Max Planck Institute" class="wp-image-1953925"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">3D map of the Milky Way’s Local Hot Bubble (LHB) created from eROSITA data reveals a low-density region around the solar system, heated by ancient supernovas. The bubble shows temperature gradients and an interstellar “tunnel” toward Centaurus, likely formed by young stars’ winds. This bubble may connect to other superbubbles, shaping the Milky Way’s structure. The solar system entered the LHB a few million years ago, adding to our understanding of its cosmic neighborhood. Credit: Max Planck Institute</figcaption></figure>



Each route may represent a kind of interstellar backroad, a path carved out by dynamic processes and influenced by the long-ago actions of exploding stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remembering-old-theories-on-cosmic-channels">Remembering old theories on cosmic channels</h2>



Ideas about a network of hot, low-density channels are not new. 



Decades ago, some <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/381679E86154865FF68FE884DA62F1D4/S0074180900089348a.pdf/div-class-title-the-structure-of-the-interstellar-medium-div.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> speculated that the space around us could hold labyrinths of connected cavities. But there was never enough data to be sure. Instruments like eRosita have now provided that clarity. By showing tunnels and pockets filled with hot plasma, the findings confirm at least one piece of these older theories. 



The presence of dust cavities packed with hot gas supports the notion that supernova events shaped a connected patchwork of interstellar matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-just-empty-space">Not just empty space</h2>



It is tempting to think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biggest-known-space-cloud-of-life-building-complex-chemicals-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> as nothingness, but that is misleading. 



Even the void between stars contains various materials. The Local Hot Bubble is one example of how dramatic events can sculpt gas into unexpected forms.



Supernovas push out matter and energy that heat and churn the interstellar medium. Over millions of years, these actions create differences in density, temperature, and composition. 



The interplay of dust, plasma, radiation, and magnetic fields leads to an environment with far more complexity than a simple vacuum. The Max Planck Institute’s recent <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/10/aa51045-24/aa51045-24.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> argues that the average thermal pressure in this bubble is lower than expected, indicating that it might be open in some directions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-channels-the-evidence">Cosmic channels: The evidence</h2>



While researchers have mapped parts of this hot region and uncovered these unusual passages, not every aspect is understood. 



Some star lines seem supported by a series of linked cavities. Other regions appear more blocked. The complexity of these patterns requires more sensitive data and further analysis. With time, better models may explain how these structures formed and how they continue to evolve.



Space’s calm appearance is deceiving. Over the past millions of years, our solar system drifted into the Local Hot Bubble. 



At roughly the same time, supernovas occurred nearby. The timing is not a coincidence. Those <a href="https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-astro-081710-102613" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient blasts</a> likely shaped the conditions we find today. The fact that our Sun now sits near the bubble’s center is simply chance, but it makes for an interesting perspective. It is as if we arrived late to a party, only to find a lingering aftermath of dramatic events that took place long before humans even existed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peering-inside-a-hidden-structure">Peering inside a hidden structure</h2>



Continuing to explore these cosmic channels will require increasingly sensitive instruments. New X-ray missions, deeper surveys, and refined models of hot gas distribution will improve our understanding. Over time, astronomers hope to fill in more of this cosmic map and explain how these tunnels affect everything from local cosmic rays to dust flow patterns and stellar wind dynamics.



The discovery of these hidden routes and temperature differences offers a reminder that even our own cosmic backyard holds surprises. 



These channels challenge old assumptions and add complexity to the picture of what lies between our Sun and the nearest stars.&nbsp;



As technology advances and new methods improve, these discoveries are bound to raise even more questions. 



Every new piece of evidence will bring us closer to understanding both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curvature-propulsion-warp-drive-krasnikov-tube-future-intergalactic-space-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> we inhabit today and the ancient events that shaped it.



What once seemed distant and unknowable may soon reveal connections that redefine our place in the cosmos.



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Interstellar "tunnel" found that connects our solar system to other stars

Space can surprise even those who spend their lives studying...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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No matter the circumstances, octopus mothers will go to any lengths for their young. The fact that an octopus will actually live longer should her eggs take longer to hatch, proves the dedication that she has for her offspring. They are certainly a mysterious species. Scientists have concluded that because of their special skills, octopuses may have origins that are quite literally out of this world. Photo Credit: David Steensma, MD / Twitter

Mysterious creatures

During its research, MBARI highlighted that the deeper in the ocean an octopus lives, the longer it typically takes for its eggs to hatch. So this had resulted in deep-sea octopi, such as the one in the Monterey Canyon, having longer lifespans than their shallow-water counterparts. Photo Credit: Michael Zeigler/Getty Images