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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Landslide zone in Los Angeles County is expanding

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604. The nebula is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). 



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 NASA Earth Observatory features dust streaming off the coast of Iran in January 2025.



“Some of the desert dust was carried across the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Peninsula, degrading air quality for those in its path,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153859/desert-dust-streams-from-iran" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The airborne material appears to primarily originate in the dried bed of the intermittent lake known as Hamun-e Jazmurian (Hamun-e Jaz Murian), while some may be blown from coastal areas." 



"Along with arid regions such as the Garagum and Lut deserts and the Sistan Basin, the lakebed is a major source of dust in southwest Asia.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precipitation-in-the-jazmurian-basin">Precipitation in the Jazmurian Basin</h2>



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



“Terra’s MODIS sensor has previously captured images of the area when water is present in Hamun-e Jazmurian and when green vegetation fringes the lakebed,” said NASA.



“In early 2025, the land was dry enough for winds to blow dust plumes south-southwest over the Gulf of Oman. Dust traveled across the water to the coast of the United Arab Emirates, where the haze reduced visibility in places, according to news reports.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-particles-in-dust-storms">Particles in dust storms</h2>



In addition to disrupting transportation and other daily activities, the suspended particles in dust storms can pose significant health risks. 



Recent research has revealed that dust from the Jazmurian Basin often contains heavy metals and other potentially harmful substances, such as silica and organic pollutants, which can negatively impact both human and ecosystem health. 



Prolonged exposure to these particles has been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as well as the exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions like asthma and bronchitis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-impact-of-dust-storms">Environmental impact of dust storms</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-is-an-understudied-contributor-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a> of dust storms extends beyond human health. The fine particles can settle on vegetation, reducing photosynthesis and agricultural productivity. 



Dust deposition can also alter soil composition by introducing heavy metals and changing nutrient balances, which may affect crop growth and soil microbial communities. 



Such changes can lead to long-term degradation of arable land and disrupt local food security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-in-the-jazmurian-basin-nbsp">Dust in the Jazmurian Basin&nbsp;</h2>



Communities near the Jazmurian Basin are particularly vulnerable to the effects of these dust storms due to limited access to healthcare and mitigation resources. 



Seasonal changes and climate conditions, including prolonged droughts and desertification, further intensify the frequency and severity of dust storms in the region. 



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



Potential measures include reforestation and soil stabilization projects to reduce dust emissions, stricter regulations to limit activities that contribute to desertification, and public health initiatives to educate communities on protective measures during dust events. 



Investing in early warning systems and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-driven-wildfires-worsen-u-s-air-quality-and-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> monitoring can also help minimize exposure and protect both human populations and the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-jazmurian-basin">Significance of the Jazmurian Basin</h2>



The Jazmurian Basin is a prominent endorheic basin located in southeastern Iran, spanning parts of the provinces of Sistan and Baluchestan as well as Kerman. It lies at the heart of an arid region characterized by sparse vegetation, high temperatures, and limited rainfall.&nbsp;



The basin is primarily fed by the Halil and Bampur rivers, which provide seasonal water flow to the basin's low-lying areas. At its center lies the Jazmurian Depression, which forms a seasonal playa or shallow lake, though it often dries up during extended dry periods.&nbsp;



The area holds geological and archaeological significance, offering insights into ancient human settlements and environmental changes over time.&nbsp;



Despite its harsh climate, the basin supports small-scale agriculture and serves as a critical habitat for certain desert-adapted wildlife. 



The image was captured on January 22 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite.&nbsp;



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Dust rises from the Jazmurian Basin in Iran

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Glowing spiral galaxy in the constellation Reticulum

Dungeness crab, Pacific herring, and red abalone are among the coastal species that appear most vulnerable to climate risks such as rising ocean temperatures, acidification, and deoxygenation.&nbsp;



The susceptibility of these species to environmental stressors could have significant consequences for local economies and cultural traditions that rely on healthy fisheries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-species-vulnerability-to-climate-risks">Species vulnerability to climate risks</h2>



In a new paper titled “A Collaborative Climate Vulnerability Assessment of California Marine Fishery Species,” researchers have outlined which animals are most threatened by predicted changes in the state’s coastal waters.&nbsp;



The study was led by Timothy Frawley, an assistant project scientist at <a href="https://ims.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of Marine Sciences</a> and assistant professor at <a href="https://wfcb.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Davis’s Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology</a>.



The research aims to assist CDFW in developing “climate-ready” management strategies for commercial and recreational fisheries. 



By detailing how different species respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-fisheries-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental shifts</a>, the team hopes to lay a foundation for policies that can better adapt to and mitigate climate-related challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economically-and-culturally-important-fisheries">Economically and culturally important fisheries</h2>



“The results are striking,” said Frawley, who spent five years as a commercial fisherman before earning a PhD in marine biology. “Some of California’s most economically and culturally important fisheries are assessed as being among the most vulnerable to projected future environmental changes.”



For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal communities</a>, the threat goes beyond ecology - it touches on livelihoods. The iconic Dungeness crab fishery, for instance, delivers more than 8,200 tons annually, yielding over $45 million for local economies in a typical season.&nbsp;



While this crab fishery remains robust, others have not fared as well. Red abalone, once generating an estimated $24 to $44 million in recreational value per year, has been off-limits since 2018.&nbsp;



Meanwhile, Pacific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-evolution-in-the-baltic-sea-how-herring-became-fish-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herring</a> in San Francisco Bay - once the basis of a thriving commercial fishery - have seen biomass drop by over 75%, forcing many fishers to abandon the trade entirely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-species-in-a-warming-climate">Shifting species in a warming climate</h2>



“While overall across the Northeast Pacific, a species like Pacific Herring may do OK, try telling that to a herring fisherman based out of San Francisco Bay. If their resource moves hundreds of miles away, it’s a big deal to them,” Frawley explained.&nbsp;



“It’s important to do these assessments at a scale that provides results that will be practical at the local level. So in that respect, this represents a step forward.”



Such local-level nuance is crucial, since some species may simply relocate northward as waters warm. For example, market squid - currently a mainstay of the state’s fisheries - could shift offshore or to cooler regions off Oregon or Washington, undercutting California-based fleets.&nbsp;



By contrast, certain warm-water fish like Pacific bonito might expand their range into the California Current, potentially offering new fishing opportunities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-sensitivity-and-exposure">Measuring sensitivity and exposure</h2>



To determine which species face the greatest climate risks, the study evaluated 34 fish and invertebrates for their vulnerability over two periods: 2030-2060 and 2070-2100.&nbsp;



The researchers focused on both sensitivity (biological attributes such as reproductive rates, habitat preferences, and susceptibility to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-acidification-is-spreading-into-deeper-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acidification</a>) and exposure (projected ocean conditions, including temperature, salinity, upwelling, subsurface oxygen levels, and sea-level rise).



These factors were combined to rank species into four categories - blue (lowest vulnerability), yellow, orange, and red (highest vulnerability).&nbsp;



Dungeness crab, red abalone, Pacific herring, pink shrimp, and Pismo clam were among those ultimately placed in the red zone over the longer term, with ocean acidification, sea-level rise, and other compounding challenges expected to intensify.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-abalone-and-a-changing-coast">Red abalone and a changing coast</h2>



Among the most concerning examples is red abalone, a bottom-dwelling mollusk highly susceptible to marine heatwaves. Because it has limited mobility and depends on stable kelp habitats for food, any extreme temperature swings or shifts in ocean chemistry can devastate its populations.&nbsp;



The fishery’s closure in 2018 was a stark indicator of how vulnerable benthic species can be, and the new study reinforces the urgency of monitoring and protective measures.



Market squid, contributing an estimated $43.9 million annually, and spiny lobster, worth around $10.7 million, also show cause for concern. Ensuring that these high-value fisheries can adapt may require both policy interventions and collaborative planning with industry stakeholders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-coastal-communities">Supporting coastal communities</h2>



“My experience working as a fisherman has inspired me to focus my work as a marine scientist on supporting coastal communities by providing them with information required to better navigate risk and uncertainty,” Frawley said.&nbsp;



“My time at sea impressed upon me the links and feedbacks between environmental variability and change and marine-resource-dependent industries and communities, as well as an appreciation for fisheries as a team sport.”



Though the public often views fishing as fiercely independent, Frawley explained that it requires a complex network.&nbsp;



“To make the gears turn, it requires a team of individuals working together on deck, groups of boats sharing information; dock workers and truck drivers to unload and transport the product; buyers and processors to package and market it; and managers and scientists to set the harvest levels and ensure that operations are sustainable."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anticipating-changes-to-manage-fisheries">Anticipating changes to manage fisheries</h2>



In highlighting the most at-risk species, this study provides a vital roadmap for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as it works to develop adaptive measures. 



Possible strategies include flexible harvest regulations, real-time monitoring of populations, and broad collaboration among scientists, fishers, and policymakers.



While shifts in ocean conditions are already underway, the ability to anticipate change is essential for managing fisheries so they remain viable in the decades to come.&nbsp;



With clear evidence that climate change is already reshaping marine environments, proactive planning could mean the difference between a future of thriving coastal economies or dwindling opportunities for fishermen and seafood lovers alike.



The research was conducted in close collaboration with the <a href="https://wildlife.ca.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Department of Fish and Wildlife</a> (CDFW), fisheries scientists at the <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA), the <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Conservancy</a>, and the <a href="https://opc.ca.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Ocean Protection Council</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/climate/article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000574" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Climate</a>.



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Economically important marine species face high climate risks

Dungeness crab, Pacific herring, and red abalone are among the...

Imagine the agility of a mountain goat as it effortlessly scales near-vertical terrains, the protective instinct of an armadillo as it rolls into a ball, or the adaptability of creatures that can traverse any environment thrown their way.



Now, envision these extraordinary traits fused into a single robotic system, designed to conquer the most challenging landscapes with ease.



A team of researchers, led by Josie Hughes at the CREATE Lab in <a href="https://sti.epfl.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPFL’s School of Engineering</a>, has created a unique new robot that redefines mobility and adaptability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-goat">The birth of GOAT</h2>



The experts set out to engineer a robotic device with the adaptability of creatures in the animal kingdom. They aimed to push the boundaries of robotic mobility by designing a machine that could transition seamlessly between different environments with minimal effort.



The goal was to develop a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anymal-the-quadrupedal-robot-that-has-mastered-parkour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot capable of navigating diverse terrains</a> by dynamically changing its form as needed, just like nature’s most versatile animals.



After much research and development, the researchers developed GOAT - Good Over All Terrains - a promising new development in robotic locomotion and control.



This robust machine is capable of morphing between a flat, "rover" shape and a sphere. This flexibility allows the robot to switch between modes of mobility such as driving, rolling, and even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-robot-that-can-swim-under-sand-like-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">swimming</a>. The new development combines clever design with a surprising amount of energy efficiency.



“While most robots compute the shortest path from A to B, GOAT considers the travel modality as well as the path to be taken," said Hughes.



"For example, instead of going around an obstacle like a stream, GOAT can swim straight through. If its path is hilly, it can passively roll downhill as a sphere to save both time and energy, and then actively drive as a rover when rolling is no longer beneficial.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-key-to-goat-s-success">The key to GOAT's success</h2>



The team at the CREATE Lab developed a design that thrives in unpredictable environments.



The researchers drew inspiration from some of nature’s most agile and resilient creatures - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-kangaroos-of-the-past-didnt-hop-they-walked-on-all-fours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a>, with their powerful leaps, spiders with their precise locomotion, octopuses with their fluid adaptability, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cockroaches-can-be-turned-into-cyborgs-for-life-saving-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cockroaches</a> with their near-indestructible resilience.



This bio-inspired compliance allows GOAT to adjust its structural properties seamlessly, shifting from a flexible and maneuverable "rover" mode to a robust, impact-resistant sphere when necessary.



Constructed of low-cost materials, GOAT's simple frame is made up of two intersecting, elastic, fiberglass rods, and four motorized, rimless wheels.



The robot's transformation is made possible by two winch-driven cables that shorten like tendons to draw it tightly into a ball. This protects the onboard computer, sensors, and battery in its core - much like a hedgehog protects its underbelly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-via-the-path-of-least-resistance">Navigating via the path of least resistance</h2>



Compliance is not just about physical adaptability; it’s also about navigation. Max Polzin, a PhD student at the CREATE Lab, noted that GOAT’s compliance allows it to navigate effectively with minimum sensing equipment.



Lacking cameras, the robot relies solely on a satellite navigation system and an inertial measurement unit to measure its orientation.



“Most robots that navigate extreme terrain have lots of sensors to determine the state of each motor but, thanks to its ability to leverage its own compliance, GOAT doesn’t need complex sensing," said Polzin. 



"It can leverage the environment, even with very limited knowledge of it, to find the best path: the path of least resistance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-morphing-robots">The future of morphing robots</h2>



Future research will explore advanced algorithms to better exploit the unique capabilities of morphing, compliant robots like GOAT. The potential applications vary from environmental monitoring to disaster response and even extraterrestrial exploration.



“Robots like GOAT could be deployed quickly into uncharted terrain, with minimal perception and planning systems, allowing them to turn environmental challenges into computational assets," said Hughes. 



"By harnessing a combination of active reconfiguration and passive adaptation, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-with-space-to-think-will-become-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">next generation of compliant robots</a> might even surpass nature’s versatility."



With continued advances in materials science, AI-driven decision-making, and energy-efficient actuation, these robots could become indispensable tools for navigating environments that are too hazardous or unpredictable for traditional machines.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adp6419" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Robotics</a>.



Image Credit: © CREATE EPFL 



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GOAT: The shape-shifting robot that masters any terrain

Imagine the agility of a mountain goat as it effortlessly...

Caribou conservation&nbsp;has always been a challenge, along with protecting other endangered species. Conservationists typically focus on genetic diversity and habitat protection, but a new study suggests a more detailed approach. 



Researchers at the University of Calgary have proposed a new way to identify at-risk wildlife populations.



Their method focuses on individual movement patterns rather than broad <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population trends</a>. Caribou, a species facing serious environmental threats, is the focus of this study.



A recent paper in Biological Conservation presents findings from long-term GPS tracking of caribou across Western Canada. The study identifies six behavioral groups, each requiring unique conservation efforts.



“We took the approach of using behavior to try to see if there are differences between individuals and groups that can be clustered into similarities,” said lead author Margaret Hughes, a PhD candidate in the Department of Biological Sciences.



By analyzing movement, the researchers inferred why caribou travel to certain locations. They examined migration patterns, habitat size, and elevation changes to determine behavioral differences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caribou-conservation-beyond-genetics">Caribou conservation beyond genetics</h2>



Conservation efforts often rely on genetic data to define at-risk caribou populations. However, Hughes argues for a broader approach that incorporates behavioral insights.



“It allows conservation managers to recognize ecologically meaningful variation within species, helping to maintain biodiversity and improve management strategies,” noted Hughes.



This method challenges traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-wildlife-conservation-how-ai-will-help-protect-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife management</a>. It provides a more detailed understanding of how caribou interact with their environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-human-activity">Impact of human activity</h2>



Caribou, known as reindeer in Europe, belong to the deer family. Their survival is threatened by habitat destruction from industries like oil, gas, and forestry. Climate change adds further pressure.



“The species is iconic,” said Dr. Marco Musiani, a professor at the <a href="https://www.unibo.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bologna</a> and an adjunct professor at <a href="https://www.ucalgary.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCalgary</a>. “It is the most famous species affected by oil and gas and forestry in Canada and also climate change, and one of the most sensitive worldwide.”



Musiani supervised Hughes’ research and believes this science could have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-leaks-conservation-efforts-may-shift-harm-elsewhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide-reaching effects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-strategies-for-caribou-conservation">New strategies for caribou conservation</h2>



The study suggests that this approach could guide conservation beyond caribou.



“Our findings provide a framework that can be applied beyond caribou to other species at risk, helping to guide habitat protection, restoration, and even translocation strategies - areas that are currently the focus of significant investments,” explained Hughes.



She noted that the tracking data could be used to design protected ecological corridors and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> areas. This could help safeguard wildlife movement across landscapes.



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



Technological advancements have made it easier to study wildlife behavior in real-time. 



The GPS collars used in this research provided highly detailed movement data over several years. These tools allow scientists to track animals across large regions, revealing patterns that were previously difficult to detect.



Drones, satellite imaging, and remote sensing can complement GPS tracking. By combining these technologies, researchers can assess changes in habitat conditions, monitor threats, and refine conservation efforts. This approach moves beyond traditional field studies, offering more precise and actionable data.



Understanding movement patterns with this level of accuracy can help conservationists predict how wildlife will respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bonobo-day-a-celebration-of-love-peace-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. 



This knowledge is crucial in developing&nbsp;caribou conservation&nbsp;strategies that can withstand future threats, including climate shifts and human expansion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-protecting-ecosystems">Importance of protecting ecosystems</h2>



Caribou do not exist in isolation. Their survival depends on the health of entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>. Boreal forests and alpine environments provide the food and shelter they need, but these habitats are increasingly at risk. 



Deforestation, resource extraction, and infrastructure development continue to fragment caribou ranges, making it harder for them to migrate and find suitable conditions.



Protecting ecosystems benefits not just caribou but also other species that share the same habitats. Wolves, bears, and smaller mammals rely on similar landscapes. By safeguarding large areas of intact wilderness, conservationists can preserve biodiversity on a much larger scale.



This research shows that conservation should protect both animals and their habitats. A broad approach helps future generations enjoy nature’s beauty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-effort">A collaborative effort</h2>



The research involved multiple institutions, including the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Faculty of Science. 



Researchers from the University of Bologna, the British Columbia <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/ministries/water-land-and-resource-stewardship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship</a>, and the Canadian Wildlife Service also contributed.



The study covered vast regions of the Rocky Mountains and the boreal forests of Western Canada.



Hughes emphasized the role of First Nations communities in making this research possible.



“We acknowledge that this work took place throughout British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the First Nations where caribou currently exist,” said Hughes.



This collaborative approach highlights the importance of integrating science with Indigenous knowledge to support&nbsp;caribou conservation&nbsp;and protect at-risk species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320724004956?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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Tracking caribou movement patterns can transform conservation

Caribou conservation&nbsp;has always been a challenge, along with protecting other...

Two U.S. spacecraft launched from Florida’s Cape Canaveral on February 27, 2025, with a major goal. They aim to explore the presence of lunar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-are-searching-for-viable-sources-of-water-on-the-moon/">water</a> near the Moon’s south pole.



Experts believe this resource could pave the way for extended missions and long-term stays on the lunar surface. 



These efforts are supported by new research from <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/about/people/parvathy-prem" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Parvathy Prem</a>, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. She is not affiliated with either mission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-at-the-moon-s-south-pole">Water at the Moon's south pole</h2>



<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/lunar-trailblazer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lunar Trailblazer</a> is designed to chart the distribution of water across wide expanses. This orbiter follows a slower trajectory and should begin mapping in a few months.



Researchers will analyze its data for detailed insights on chemical composition and surface temperature. These observations might identify the best spots for future landings.



Some scientists believe the&nbsp;lunar south pole&nbsp;contains&nbsp;hidden ice deposits&nbsp;buried in craters that have never seen sunlight. These regions remain&nbsp;extremely cold, preserving water in frozen form for&nbsp;millions of years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-commercial-lander-s-second-try">The commercial lander’s second try</h2>



<a href="https://www.intuitivemachines.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intuitive Machines</a>, based in Houston, Texas, has sent a lander named <a href="https://www.intuitivemachines.com/im-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Athena</a> to the Moon’s south polar region. This is the company’s second attempt after an earlier spacecraft tipped on landing last year.



It is scheduled to arrive on March 6, aiming to land closer to the Moon’s south pole than any previous mission. NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia23874-trident-exploring-the-mysteries-of-triton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRIDENT</a> drill will then dig up to three feet deep to extract material from beneath the surface.



“This ability to drill and analyze simultaneously provides critical data on how lunar soils behave,” said <a href="https://technology.nasa.gov/blog-MEET-THE-INVENTOR-Jackie-Quinn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jackie Quinn</a>, the drill’s project manager at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island, Florida. 



A <a href="https://www.broadinstitute.org/technology-areas/what-mass-spectrometry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass spectrometer</a> will measure escaped gases for water or other volatiles.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-water-matters-on-the-moon">Why water matters on the Moon</h2>



Scientists have known about lunar water since 2009, when NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/lcross/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LCROSS</a> mission confirmed it. Liquid or frozen water could provide drinking water or fuel components for deeper space travel.



Mastering a local supply means less reliance on cargo from Earth. These new vehicles “are going after really important pieces of that puzzle,” said Dr. Prem.



Harvesting water directly from the Moon could support permanent bases near the south pole. NASA views this region as a key location for future missions. 



It could become a key location for future human exploration on the Moon. With its potential resources, it may also support long-term settlement and sustained missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-eyes-on-the-moon">Global eyes on the Moon</h2>



<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/chandrayaan-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chandrayaan-2</a>, operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (<a href="https://www.isro.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISRO</a>), is currently collecting data about possible ice at the Moon’s poles. A Korean probe known as <a href="https://www.planetary.org/space-missions/kplo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danuri</a> also searches for signs of hidden water on the Moon using a NASA camera designed for shadowed terrain.&nbsp;



Rovers from other nations are considering these icy areas as well. Multiple projects could reveal how ancient collisions and solar particles shaped the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moons-entire-surface-is-covered-with-water-and-hydroxyl-not-just-the-poles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon’s</a> hidden layers.



“Everyone wants to go to the most interesting spots on the Moon,” said <a href="https://www.gps.caltech.edu/people/bethany-l-ehlmann" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bethany Ehlmann</a>, a planetary scientist at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena and the mission’s principal investigator. 



That interest has fueled worldwide collaborations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-presence-on-the-moon">Long-term presence on the Moon</h2>



Last month, two commercial spacecraft launched with rovers and exploration equipment to study the Moon. One spacecraft was developed by Tokyo-based <a href="https://ispace-inc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ispace</a>, while the other was built by <a href="https://fireflyspace.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Firefly Aerospace</a> in Cedar Park, Texas.



The Firefly Aerospace lander successfully touched down on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-is-the-moons-water-a-nasa-mission-will-soon-find-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a>’s equator on March 2. This region is believed to contain less water than the poles. However, every mission contributes valuable data about the Moon’s environment and resources.



Scientists believe these findings will help future crewed missions by identifying areas rich in ice deposits, which could support long-term human presence. A sustainable Moon base may be possible if astronauts can extract and use lunar water for drinking and fuel production.



The idea of using lunar ice as a resource is becoming more realistic. Experts predict that these ongoing efforts will shape the next generation of both human and robotic exploration on the Moon.



The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-00597-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Two spacecraft set out to drill for water on the Moon's south pole

Two U.S. spacecraft launched from Florida’s Cape Canaveral on February...

Tattoos, revered for their cultural significance, personal meaning, and artistic appeal, have adorned human bodies throughout history. This unique form of art is not just an ancient tribal tradition but a popular contemporary mode of self-expression. 



However, the potential health risks associated with the injected tattoo ink have largely been overlooked.



Scientists are now investigating the long-term effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tattoos-increase-the-risk-of-developing-lymphoma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tattoo</a> ink within the body and whether it could contribute to health issues, including cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoo-ink-s-journey-in-the-body">Tattoo ink's journey in the body</h2>



Once the tattoo artist punches the ink into the skin, your body identifies the pigments as foreign substances. 



Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tattoos-and-body-art-found-on-1200-year-old-peruvian-mummies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ink</a> stays in the skin, making the tattoo permanent, but some travels in the blood and collects in the lymph nodes, which help protect the body from illness.



Experts are concerned that tattoo ink in the lymph nodes might cause long-term swelling and possibly lead to cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoo-ink-and-health-concerns">Tattoo ink and health concerns</h2>



A study from the University of Southern Denmark (<a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDU</a>) and the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> suggests that tattoo ink may compromise the immune system's performance.



As the lymphatic system plays a pivotal role in the immune response, any disruption caused by foreign substances could have long-term consequences.



Henrik Frederiksen is a consultant in haematology at Odense University Hospital (<a href="https://en.ouh.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OUH</a>) and a clinical professor at SDU.



“We can see that ink particles accumulate in the lymph nodes, and we suspect that the body perceives them as foreign substances,“ noted Fredericksen.



“This may mean that the immune system is constantly trying to respond to the ink, and we do not yet know whether this persistent strain could weaken the function of the lymph nodes or have other health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-cells-collaborate-to-survive-challenging-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consequences</a>.”



Scientists worry that if the immune system keeps fighting ink particles, it might cause unusual cell growth, which can lead to cancer. But since cancer develops slowly, it's hard to know the true effect of tattoos on health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-tattoos-and-cancer">Connection between tattoos and cancer</h2>



Analyzing the long-term effects of tattoos requires extensive data spanning considerable time periods. Scientists at SDU have found a solution by exploiting data from the Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort, encompassing over 5,900 Danish twins.



By observing tattoo patterns and corresponding cancer diagnoses, they concluded that tattooed individuals had higher skin and lymphoma cancer rates.



“This provides us with a stronger method for investigating whether tattoos themselves may influence cancer risk,” said Jacob von Bornemann Hjelmborg, professor of biostatistics at SDU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-of-tattoo-size">Influence of tattoo size</h2>



The study further unveiled that tattoo size matters. Large tattoos showed a stronger link to cancer risk than smaller ones. Concerning lymphoma, people with large tattoos had a nearly three times higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">occurrence rate</a>.



“This suggests that the bigger the tattoo and the longer it has been there, the more ink accumulates in the lymph nodes,” said Signe Bedsted Clemmensen, assistant professor of biostatistics at SDU.



”The extent of the impact on the immune system should be further investigated so that we can better understand the mechanisms at play.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoos-remain-fashionable">Tattoos remain fashionable</h2>



Despite health concerns, the popularity of tattoos continues to rise. The Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort study revealed that nearly 40% of women and 30% of men will have tattoos by age 25.



This trend is a global phenomenon, with increasing social acceptance of tattoos, particularly among youths and women.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-tattoo-ink-color-matter">Does tattoo ink color matter?</h2>



The safety of tattoos also hinges on the composition of the ink. Various pigments contain different chemicals, potentially harmful when absorbed into the body. 



While the current research doesn't identify specific ink colors as direct cancer causes, future research may examine this aspect further.



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



Researchers are shifting focus to understand how ink particles interact with the body on a molecular level. They aim to determine whether certain types of lymphoma are more strongly linked to tattoos and how long-term exposure to ink affects immune system function.



“We want to gain a better understanding of the biological mechanisms - what happens in the lymph nodes when they are exposed to ink particles over decades? This can help us assess whether there is a real health risk and what we might do to reduce it,” concluded Clemmensen.



Understanding the potential health risks associated with tattoos is thus paramount for informed decisions regarding tattoos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-research-efforts">Ongoing research efforts</h2>



The Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort is a research project designed to study whether tattoos could be linked to cancer. Scientists want to understand if tattoos increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-discovery-about-cell-migration-will-help-defeat-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health risks</a>, but it’s tricky because people have different genetics and lifestyles. 



This study compares twins - who share the same genes but may have different tattoo habits. By doing this, researchers can see if tattoos alone have any health effects or if other factors, like family history or environment, play a bigger role.



In 2017, a government agency in Denmark estimated that 14% of the population had tattoos. By 2021, tattoos had become even more popular, with 30-40% of people under 35 having at least one. 



As more people get tattoos, scientists want to learn whether ink inside the body has any long-term health effects.



In short, tattoos are not just designs on the skin. When ink is injected, it stays in the body, and some of it may move to other areas. Scientists are still figuring out if this could lead to serious health problems like cancer. Until more research is done, it’s important to stay informed and understand the potential risks.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-025-21413-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Public Health</a>.



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Tattoo ink travels through the body and may cause long-term risks

Tattoos, revered for their cultural significance, personal meaning, and artistic...

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and British Columbia, researchers saw kelp forests revive. These forests had been wiped out by unchecked sea urchin populations. However, the speed of recovery varied by location, leaving scientists searching for answers.



A new study from <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CU Boulder</a> sheds light on this puzzle. It confirms that sea otters, a keystone species, help kelp forests grow back, but their impact depends on interactions with other marine species. The researchers analyzed decades of data to map changes in ecosystems over time.



“We always thought keystone species control their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> the same way, regardless of where they are or what else is in the ecosystem,” said Ryan Langendorf, lead author of the paper. 



“A more modern view is that they are still very important, but they can have different effects in different places.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-sea-otters-in-forest-health">Role of sea otters in forest health</h2>



Scientists have been studying keystone species - animals that have a big impact on their environment - for a long time. One of these scientists, Jim Estes, spent his career researching sea otters. He discovered that sea otters play a key role in keeping kelp forests healthy.



Otters eat sea urchins, which are animals that feed on kelp. When there aren’t enough otters, sea urchins multiply and eat too much kelp. This destroys kelp <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-more-resilient-to-change-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, turning them into empty underwater areas with little life. 



But when otters are present, they keep the urchin population under control, allowing kelp forests to grow and support many marine species.



To understand this better, Estes and scientist Jane Watson studied what happened when sea otters were brought back to areas where they had disappeared. 



They focused on two locations: Nicolas Island in California and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Over 30 years, they collected detailed data to see how sea otters influenced their surroundings. 



Before otters were reintroduced, both locations had too many sea urchins, and the kelp forests had almost disappeared. Their research provided strong evidence that sea otters are crucial for maintaining a balanced ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-rates-of-recovery">Different rates of recovery</h2>



The data showed that while kelp forests recovered in both locations, British Columbia saw much faster regrowth. 



In this region, the return of sea otters triggered a clear chain reaction: otters ate sea urchins, allowing kelp forests to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flourish</a>. However, in California, recovery was slower, revealing gaps in understanding.



To explore these differences, Langendorf developed a new model that visualized species interactions over time. This model functioned like a movie, capturing how different species influenced one another across decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-web-of-interactions">Complex web of interactions</h2>



The model provided a clearer picture of what slowed kelp recovery in Southern California. In this region, species interactions were more complex. 



Unlike in British Columbia, where otters had a strong effect on urchins, California’s ecosystem had additional competition among different species. This weakened the direct influence of sea otters on the system, slowing the pace of recovery.



“Almost all studies of ecological communities assume that these interaction strengths are static – that ‘the rules of the game’ don’t change even as the abundances of species do,” said Dan Doak, a professor of environmental studies at CU Boulder. 



“By developing a way to estimate these changing rules, Ryan has added to our appreciation of this particular system, as well as pioneering a more powerful way to understand other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological systems</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-otters-and-forests">Lessons from otters and forests</h2>



This study introduces a method that can help researchers understand how ecosystems change when species are reintroduced. By analyzing long-term data, scientists can predict how different species interact in shifting environments.



“The dynamic nature of ecosystems has long kept ecologists from understanding what species need and how best to manage them,” Langendorf said. 



“Being able to turn common survey data into a movie of species reacting to changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> and each other feels like renewed hope for a field that more than ever needs to offer useful advice about how to help the many complex living systems we live with and cherish.”



This approach could provide insights into conservation efforts worldwide, helping scientists protect and restore fragile ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413360122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Sea otters help kelp forests recover, but there's more to the story

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and...

Ancient fish once roamed the waters with features that preceded human elbows and knees. Scientists have revealed that our flexible joints can be traced to the earliest jawed fish, bridging the distant past with our daily movements.



Research on ancient fossils has shown that skeleton flexibility is not a modern trait. Jawless species do not appear to share this structural hallmark, signaling a major shift in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coelacanth-ngamugawi-wirngarri-new-species-living-fossil-fish-survived-over-400-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vertebrate history</a>.



Neelima Sharma of <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Chicago</a> is part of the team that investigated fossil evidence and living examples to see where these joints first emerged.



Sharma's <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002990" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work</a> reveals that these articulated connections, once believed unique to bony species on land, appeared in ancient aquatic creatures long before limbs evolved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-flexible-connections">Exploring flexible connections</h2>



Synovial joints are typically found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-art-discovery-reveals-15800-year-old-fishing-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> that require movement with reduced friction. They appear as spaces, or cavities, between bones or cartilage, lubricated by a thin fluid.



This arrangement provides a blend of strength and range. It is more complex than joints that simply fuse or cartilaginous links that have limited motion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-sets-synovial-joints-apart">What sets synovial joints apart</h2>



Bone surfaces involved in this flexible setup often show specialized cells and proteins. These features help maintain smooth motion and prevent harmful rubbing.



Scientists once thought that this design was mostly found in land vertebrates. That assumption is now questioned by new analyses on certain fish skeletons.



<a href="https://www.glfc.org/sea-lamprey.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sea lampreys</a>, which belong to a lineage without jaws, do not display synovial cavities. Their skeletal elements meet in ways that lack the lubricated space.



Bamboo sharks and little skates, both cartilaginous fish, present a different picture. Joints in these species have the layered tissues and proteins that connect to the type of architecture previously linked to synovial structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-scans-reveal-ancient-fish-joints">Fossil scans reveal ancient fish joints</h2>



The team used advanced imaging techniques to study a fossil fish known as Bothriolepis. This specimen exhibited a cavity between skeletal components - a trait places it among the oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mayan-civilization-may-have-been-shaped-by-ingenious-fisheries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> with a documented synovial joint.



Cartilaginous fish from modern times share some of these patterns with the fossil. Researchers see this as a sign that their common ancestor had joints that could bend with less wear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-joints-helped-fish-move-better">Flexible joints helped fish move better</h2>



Changing from rigid junctions to more mobile connections offered new avenues in feeding and locomotion. Evolving jaws was one major step, but flexible joints around those jaws opened even more possibilities.



Joint evolution also affected survival. Fish that could maneuver more freely had advantages in escaping predators or capturing prey.



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



“The origin of mobile joints in our fish ancestors enabled them to move about and feed in new ways. This study shows that the developmental processes that are responsible for these joints arose deep within the fish evolutionary tree,” said Sharma.



There is ongoing interest in how other fossil groups fit into the timeline. Scientists aim to look at additional specimens, hoping to see exactly when these structural traits appeared in different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish branches</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-embryonic-development">Clues from embryonic development</h2>



Developing embryos often hold secrets about evolutionary history. The researchers found that the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05868-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">little skate embryo</a> forms joints in a way similar to tetrapods. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC21740/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Specific proteins</a> appear during development, signaling joint formation in ways that match land vertebrates.



Muscle activity also plays a crucial role. When scientists temporarily paralyzed developing little skates, their joints failed to form properly. This suggests that movement itself is key in shaping these structures, much like in zebrafish and tetrapods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-human-joints">What this means for human joints</h2>



Understanding where our synovial joints originated could help scientists explore joint disorders. Conditions like <a href="https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">osteoarthritis</a> involve the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness. 



Studying how these joints evolved may offer insights into preventing or treating such diseases.



The research also has implications for regenerative medicine. If scientists understand how these joints first formed, they may uncover ways to encourage cartilage repair.



Future studies could look at whether some of the ancient joint-forming proteins could be used in therapies for joint damage.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002990" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a>.



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Ancient fish had flexible joints like humans

Ancient fish once roamed the waters with features that preceded...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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