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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: USGS, processed by ESA&nbsp;



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Valencia floods: A tragedy fueled by extreme weather

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) features the Dark Wolf Nebula, located around 5,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Scorpius.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESO/VPHAS+ team



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Dark Wolf Nebula in the constellation Scorpius

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Crab Nebula: The remains of a massive star explosion

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 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. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a false-color radar depiction of central Ethiopia.



According to ESA, the photograph is a blend of multiple Sentinel-1 images from spring, summer and autumn 2023, which have been overlaid to create this single image.



“Radar images capture surface texture rather than reflected light so they are naturally black and white but here images from each season have been assigned a different color: red, green and blue respectively,” explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“When the images are combined, the different colors reveal variations that occurred in the different seasons.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rugged-terrain-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Rugged terrain of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that Ethiopia’s terrain is one of the most rugged in Africa. The landscape is primarily characterized by highlands and plateaus.&nbsp;



The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the Roof of Africa, dominate this region and include some of the highest peaks in Africa, such as Ras Dashen. The terrain features steep escarpments, deep valleys, and numerous rivers.&nbsp;



The central part of the country is also home to the Great Rift Valley, which runs through Ethiopia and includes a series of lakes and volcanic mountains. The region's varied topography contributes to its rich biodiversity and distinct climate zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lakes-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Lakes of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, water bodies appear dark in this image because flat water surfaces reflect the radar signal away from the satellite. “The various colors visible in some lakes are due either to the changing surface currents and sediments from rivers or to variations in water level.”



Lake Ziway is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-flamingos-at-risk-due-to-rising-lake-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> in the region. It is located about 160 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.&nbsp;



The lake is known for its rich bird diversity, including large populations of pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Lake Ziway also supports local fishing communities.



Lake Shala is the deepest lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley and is known for its volcanic origins. It has a maximum depth of 266 meters and is surrounded by hot springs and steep, rocky cliffs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Climate of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



Central Ethiopia features a diverse climate, primarily influenced by its elevation and geographical location within the tropics.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highland-climate">Highland climate</h3>



Much of central Ethiopia consists of highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 3,000 meters above sea level. These highlands experience a temperate climate, with cooler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-in-africa-are-rising-above-levels-that-rhinoceros-can-tolerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> compared to the lowlands.&nbsp;



The average temperatures range from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher elevations, such as those found in the Ethiopian Highlands, can experience temperatures that are close to freezing at night.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainy-seasons">Rainy seasons</h3>



Central Ethiopia has two main rainy seasons. The primary rainy season, known as the "Kiremt," occurs from June to September and brings the majority of the annual rainfall.&nbsp;



The "Belg," or short rainy season, occurs from March to May. The rainfall during these periods supports agriculture, which is a key part of the region's economy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-season">Dry season</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-wet-forests-have-seen-an-alarming-rise-in-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dry season</a>, known as the "Bega," spans from October to February.&nbsp;During this time, the region experiences significantly less rainfall, and the weather tends to be sunny and dry. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Culture of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> of central Ethiopia is a dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. This culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a profound connection to the region's historical and spiritual roots.



The Amhara people have played a significant role in the cultural and political life of central Ethiopia. The Amhara are known for their rich heritage, which includes the Amharic language, a Semitic tongue that serves as one of the country's official languages.



Orthodox Christianity is a key aspect of central Ethiopian culture, particularly among the Amhara and other highland communities.&nbsp;



This part of East Africa is also known for its traditional music and dance, which reflect the region's historical depth and cultural diversity.&nbsp;



The cuisine of central Ethiopia is another significant cultural aspect, with injera (a spongy flatbread made from teff) being a staple food.&nbsp;Injera is typically served with a variety of stews (wats) and salads.



The communal eating experience, where meals are shared from a single large plate, emphasizes the importance of community and togetherness.



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The vibrant seasons of central Ethiopia

Widespread floods in Bolivia during the final week of January 2006 after thunderstorms inundated the country with heavy rain. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite captured the image of flooding in the <a href="http://www.earth.com/news/end-great-american-desert/">southwestern desert</a> on January 29, 2006; this is the image that displays when you first open the page.

The floods appear to have turned this dry desert landscape into a sea of mud. In the false-color combination used to create these images, water is normally black or dark blue as Lake PoopÃ is in the lower image; this image displays when you place your mouse over the first image. But the flood water in the first image is pale blue, a sign that is it mixed with mud. Clouds are a brighter shade of blue and the desert landscape is pale tan with brushes of green vegetation.

Floods in Bolivia

By now, most of us are well aware of the severe damage inflicted by plastic on our environment. As the United Nations noted, 46% of plastic waste is landfilled, while 22% is mismanaged and becomes litter. 



"Unlike other materials, plastic does not biodegrade. It can take up to 1,000 years to break down, so when it is discarded, it builds up in the environment until it reaches a crisis point," said the UN.



"This pollution chokes marine wildlife, damages soil and poisons groundwater, and can cause serious health impacts."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-plastic-epidemic">The plastic epidemic</h2>



A recent study, funded by paper packaging company <a href="https://www.dssmith.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DS Smith</a>, presents an eye-opening revelation.



The research suggests that over half (51%) of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/9936-chemicals-found-in-plastic-products-used-for-food-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging</a> used for grocery items could either be minimized or eliminated altogether in the United Kingdom and most other countries in the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-used-in-food-packaging">Plastic used in food packaging</h2>



To reach this conclusion, scientists scrutinized plastic utilization on an extensive scale. 



They studied 1,500 food and drink products sold by the top five food retailers across six European countries -- France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom.



The team uses two distinct approaches -- a "basket analysis" and a "store inventory analysis."



The basket analysis assessed the percentage of regularly bought items in a typical shopping basket containing plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-is-responsible-for-the-burden-of-plastic-packaging-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging</a>.



The store inventory analysis focused on the proportion of food and drink items packaged in plastic across various store sections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reliance-on-plastic-packaging">Reliance on plastic packaging </h2>



The study revealed that the bulk of plastic packaging in an average shopping basket originated from processed foods, including ready-meals and meal kits (90%); bread, rice, and cereals (89%), dairy products (83%), and meat and fish (80%).



The experts found that the UK leads the pack as the most reliant on plastic packaging, with 70% of all food and drink items on British shelves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/4200-harmful-plastic-chemicals-hidden-in-everyday-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">containing plastic</a>.



Spain was not far behind at 67%, followed by Italy and Germany (66%), Poland (62%), and France (59%).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-commitments-for-sustainable-packaging">Commitments for sustainable packaging </h2>



Adding another layer to the study, the researchers interviewed 300 food and drink industry professionals occupying senior positions linked to packaging. 



Most respondents (98%) expressed their companies' commitment to reduce plastic packaging. Interestingly, 60% of these have fewer than two years to fulfill their voluntary goals.



However, 40% of the respondents cited the cost of raw materials as a major hurdle, and there's apprehension that consumers might reject the changes.



A significant 72% of industry professionals felt that consumers wouldn't want to pay more for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whats-the-most-sustainable-packaging-the-answer-will-surprise-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable packaging</a>, and 65% believed consumers would not sacrifice convenience for sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmentally-conscious-brands">Environmentally conscious brands </h2>



Nonetheless, these concerns might be misguided. A 2023 Harvard Business Review study suggests that Gen Z and Millennial customers, who perceive a brand to be conscious of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> and social impact, are 27% more likely to choose it over others.



These generations' spending power is predicted to overtake that of Baby Boomers by 2030, translating to a wealth transfer of up to $68 trillion.



"We think the government can and should be more demanding of us all. Phasing out certain plastics to help create a level playing field that encourages innovation, investment and generates healthy competition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-retailers-are-replacing-plastic-bags-with-eco-friendly-paper-bags/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">replace plastic</a>," said DS Smith CEO Miles Roberts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-single-use-plastic-packaging-scourge">Single-use plastic packaging scourge</h2>



This type of plastic packaging is also referred to as "single-use plastics" because after you consume what's inside the packaging, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-plastic-straws-degrade-faster-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">use the straw</a> that came with a drink, the plastic is immediately thrown away and never used again. 



Humans are ingrained with the attitude "out of sight, out of mind," but just because you toss plastic into a bin, that's far from the end of it. 



Discarded plastics accumulate in landfills, litter our streets, and find their way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">into the oceans</a> where they enter the food chain.



Wildlife in every corner of the world is taking a big hit from all this plastic pollution. Sea turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, birds get tangled in discarded fishing lines, and marine animals ingest bits of plastic thinking it's food. It's heartbreaking to see <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-dropped-into-the-ocean-can-travel-hundreds-of-miles-while-sinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">images of animals</a> suffering because of our throwaway culture.



The issue gets worse when you consider how long these plastics stick around. They can take thousands of years to break down, and even then, they're not truly gone. 



Instead, they break into tiny microplastics and nanoplastics that can be ingested by humans and wildlife, eventually entering the water supply and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infiltrating the cells in our bodies</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policies-for-a-plastic-free-future">Policies for a plastic-free future</h2>



While industry leaders acknowledge the importance of reducing plastic packaging, significant change may require stronger government intervention, ultimately leading to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-treaty-talks-slow-progress-yet-restored-hope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global plastics treaty</a>.



Regulatory frameworks, such as plastic taxes, bans on single-use plastics, or incentives for sustainable packaging, could accelerate progress. 



Countries like France have already enacted laws to reduce plastic use in supermarkets, aiming to phase out disposable plastics by 2040. 



These policies hold companies accountable and encourage innovation in eco-friendly materials and waste reduction strategies.



In the UK, policymakers have introduced initiatives like the Plastic Packaging Tax, yet experts argue that more comprehensive regulations are needed to drive lasting impact. 



Setting clear goals for plastic reduction could stimulate a competitive market that favors recyclable and biodegradable alternatives.



As consumer awareness grows, the pressure on both government and industry is mounting. Future policy directions could determine the pace and success of the journey toward a more sustainable grocery sector, balancing the demands of convenience, cost, and environmental impact.



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Plastic use in food packaging could be, and should be, drastically reduced

By now, most of us are well aware of the...

Welcome to the fascinating, albeit daunting, world of climate action. While it may seem like a constant barrage of distressing news, it is not all grim.



Some promising developments have emerged from the front lines of climate action, offering hope amid the crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoupling-economic-growth-from-emissions">Decoupling economic growth from emissions</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK) in Germany found that 30% of global regions have successfully managed to decouple economic growth from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>.



"Historically, economic growth has been closely coupled to carbon emissions responsible for climate change, but to stabilize global mean temperature, net-zero carbon emissions are necessary," wrote the researchers.



"Some economies have begun to reduce emissions while continuing to grow, but this decoupling is not fast enough to achieve global climate targets."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-progress-in-climate-action">Global progress in climate action</h2>



It is a commonly held notion that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-temperature-variability-linked-to-slow-economic-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">economic growth</a> is inevitably intertwined with carbon emissions. 



This belief has long been a significant barrier in the fight against climate change, as many fear that robust economic development comes at an environmental cost. However, recent studies have been proving this wrong.



“Regions with high incomes and a history of carbon-intensive industries, as well as those with significant shares of service and manufacturing sectors were particularly successful in reducing carbon emissions while still experiencing economic growth,” said study co-author Anders Levermann.



“A stabilization of the global mean temperature is only possible with net-zero carbon emissions. That means that if economies want to grow, they need to be decoupled from CO2 emissions.”



This decoupling is a significant breakthrough, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve economic prosperity without further harming the planet. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-local-climate-action">The power of local climate action</h2>



The researchers have not been focusing solely on nations or individual cities, as is the norm. They have taken a more granular approach while keeping their scope global.



The team analyzed 1,500 subnational regions, accounting for a whopping 85% of global emissions. The experts identified significant global patterns of decoupling.



The analysis reveals that local climate action has emerged as a powerful force in driving decoupling efforts. Regions that have prioritized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mature-forests-play-a-surprising-role-in-climate-mitigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate mitigation</a> through strategic planning and targeted funding are leading the way, showing that focused local initiatives can fuel broader progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-decoupling-trends">Global decoupling trends</h2>



"Specifically, EU cities that have implemented climate mitigation plans and regions that have received increased financial support for climate actions tend to show higher rates of decoupling," said lead author Maria Zioga.



"Notably, Europe consistently outperforms other parts of the world, with many of its regions showing a continuous decoupling trend over the past 20 years." 



"In contrast, North America and Asia have seen more fluctuating decoupling patterns over the decades, but there's been an improvement trend in the last decade.”



This success highlights the importance of empowering local governments and communities to take initiative in climate action. 



By tailoring strategies to local conditions and needs, regions can achieve more effective and efficient outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achieving-net-zero-emissions">Achieving net-zero emissions</h2>



Despite the progress, the road ahead remains challenging. The PIK scientists estimate that if current decoupling rates persist, less than half of the subnational regions will be able to achieve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/residual-emissions-must-be-addressed-to-reach-net-zero/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">net-zero carbon emissions</a> by 2050.



The challenge is formidable, as it requires a comprehensive transformation of energy systems, industrial processes, and societal behaviors.



"Developed countries appear likely to fulfill these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-meet-climate-targets-with-carbon-capture-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">targets</a> ahead of others, but overall recent trends appear inadequate for achieving the net-zero by mid-century in most regions," said study co-author Max Kotz.



"Therefore, all levels of government need to step up and developed countries in particular should increase their efforts and investment in the energy transition in the countries of the global south in order to meet net-zero targets globally.”



The science is clear, and the path is laid out. We must invest in renewable energy, innovate in technology, and strengthen international cooperation to ensure that the gains made in decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions are expanded and sustained.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2411419121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Climate action: Economies can grow while cutting emissions

Welcome to the fascinating, albeit daunting, world of climate action....

October 2024 will be remembered by the locals around Pyramid Lake, Nevada, for a rather unusual display of nature's colors and patterns. 



The usually serene waters of the lake unleashed a stunning exhibition of blue-green algae, dancing and swirling across the surface. 



For the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=944807254356712&amp;set=pb.100064823373179.-2207520000" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Water Quality Program</a>, this bloom was arguably the most active in recent times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-pyramid-lake-from-space">Studying Pyramid Lake from space</h2>



The bloom, which added a touch of mystery to the lake, was so expansive that it was visible from space. The locals, bemused by this phenomenon, couldn't help but talk about it. 



Luckily, providing a better look at this spectacle was the <a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landsat 9 satellite</a>, which snapped astonishing natural-color images on October 8, 2024. 



Looking at the images captured by Operational Land Imager-2 (<a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/landsat-9-instruments/oli-2-design/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OLI-2</a>), you could see the mesmerizing swirling, whirlpool patterns created by the algae.



Nodularia spumigena, a type of cyanobacteria, is the culprit that is responsible for the bloom. 



This particular species thrives in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warm, saline waters</a> and can pull nitrogen right out of the atmosphere -- handy skills that ensured its survival in Pyramid Lake over the years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-beautiful-but-stay-away">It's beautiful, but stay away</h2>



What's fascinating about Nodularia spumigena, aside from its beauty, is its ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. This means it can create its own nutrients and outcompete other organisms when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrogen-overlooked-component-eutrophication-lake-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen levels in the water</a> are low.



But there's a flip side. Nodularia spumigena can produce a toxin called nodularin, which is harmful to both animals and humans. If you come into contact with water contaminated by this toxin, it can lead to serious health issues, especially affecting the liver. 



That's why when blooms of this cyanobacterium occur, health authorities often warn people to steer clear of the water until things return to normal.



Respectively, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe raised a safety flag on October 15, 2024, advising people to avoid contact with the water until it returned to its normal state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cyanobacteria-and-phytoplankton">Understanding cyanobacteria and phytoplankton</h2>



Phytoplankton and cyanobacteria are both tiny organisms that live in water, but there's a key difference between them. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-plants-into-carbon-capture-machines-with-cyanobacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cyanobacteria</a>, also called blue-green algae, are actually bacteria that can photosynthesize -- they use sunlight to make food, much like plants do. Despite their name, they're not true algae.



These little guys have been around for billions of years, and you can find them almost everywhere: in oceans, lakes, soil, and even in extreme environments like hot springs. Cyanobacteria are actually responsible for producing a lot of the oxygen that made life possible on Earth.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a>, on the other hand, is a broader term that includes any microscopic organisms in the water that can photosynthesize. This group encompasses a variety of species, including algae and, interestingly enough, cyanobacteria. 



So, in a way, cyanobacteria are a type of phytoplankton, but not all phytoplankton are cyanobacteria.



Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky. While cyanobacteria are crucial for ecosystems and the oxygen we breathe, some species can produce toxins that are harmful to animals and humans. If you've ever heard about beaches closing because of harmful algal blooms, cyanobacteria are often the culprits. 



So, they play a double role: they're essential for life, but under certain conditions, such as this toxic bloom in Pyramid Lake, they can pose some serious health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pyramid-lake-past-present-and-future">Pyramid Lake: Past, present and future</h2>



Pyramid Lake is a piece of history. It's a remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan, created during the last ice age. 



Scientists speculate that the cyanobacteria Nodularia spumigena has been a part of this ecosystem since that era.



This lake isn’t just about the water or the spectacular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-turning-green-thanks-to-climate-change-algae-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae blooms</a>. It's home to the endangered cui-ui fish (Chasmistes cuius) -- a species held in high regard by the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. 



Anglers will also recognize it as the site where a world-record Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi) weighing a whopping 41 pounds was caught in 1925.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-the-bloom">Monitoring the bloom</h2>



To keep a pulse on these blooms and their implications, scientists and environmental organizations utilize various tools. 



For instance, the <a href="https://www.sfei.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Francisco Estuary Institute</a>'s water quality analysis tool indicated a surge in levels of chlorophyll-a between late September and mid-October. 



This invaluable data helps researchers understand the occurrence and potential impacts of such blooms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-pyramid-lake-for-the-future">Preserving Pyramid Lake for the future</h2>



This beautiful, toxic bloom underscores the importance of monitoring and conserving our aquatic ecosystems. 



Factors like temperature shifts, nutrient levels, and changes in water conditions can spark cyanobacteria growth almost anywhere on Earth.



The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe is keeping residents and visitors up-to-date on the lake's condition. 



By heeding safety recommendations and staying informed, we can all play a part in safeguarding ourselves and this delicate ecosystem.



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NASA Earth Observatory image by <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/about/wanmei-liang" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wanmei Liang</a>, using Landsat data from the <a href="http://earthexplorer.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>. Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lukegordon/3377729218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke H. Gordon</a>. Story by <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/about/lindsey-doermann" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lindsey Doermann</a>.



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Pyramid Lake water turns dark green with beautiful swirling whirlpool currents

October 2024 will be remembered by the locals around Pyramid...

A recent study points to an exciting possibility: that Uranus's moon Miranda, located in the far reaches of our solar system, may harbor a hidden sea beneath its icy crust, making it hospitable to extraterrestrial life.



Discovering water on a moon is no easy task. It's even harder when that moon is hundreds of millions of miles away.



Tom Nordheim, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JHAPL</a>), is the person who gave us a peek into these icy depths. 



"To find evidence of an ocean inside a small object like Miranda is incredibly surprising," said Nordheim, who co-authored the study. 



His team's work challenges our understanding of Miranda while positing new questions about the potential for life on other celestial bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-miranda-s-bizarre-moonscape">Miranda's bizarre moonscape</h2>



Recall 1986 when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-lost-contact-with-voyager-2-spacecraft-12-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voyager 2</a>, NASA's intrepid spacecraft, beamed back the first close-up images of Miranda. It was a sight to behold.



A bizarre landscape that looked as if it had been stitched together from bits and pieces of different worlds. 



From deep grooves and towering cliffs to mysterious trapezoid-shaped regions known as coronae, Miranda appeared to be a geological wonder. But what could have caused such a varied landscape?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-deal-with-uranus">What's the deal with Uranus?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-is-more-gassy-less-icy-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a> is one of the lesser-known planets in our solar system. Unlike the other planets, Uranus rotates on its side, so its axis is almost parallel to its orbit. 



This tilt causes some extreme seasons -- imagine a planet where each pole gets 42 years of continuous sunlight followed by 42 years of darkness. 



Scientists think a massive collision with an Earth-sized object might have knocked it over early in its history.



Another interesting aspect is Uranus's atmosphere, which is rich in icy materials like water, ammonia, and methane. That methane is what gives the planet its <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-ice-giant-uranus-in-stunning-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">signature blue-green color</a>. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-photos-of-uranus-from-hubble-and-new-horizons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a> also has a set of faint rings and at least 27 moons, many named after Shakespearean characters like Miranda, which is the subject of this article, and Ariel. 



Despite being discovered way back in 1781 by William Herschel, Uranus still holds many secrets, and researchers are eager to explore it further to understand more about these distant, icy worlds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-ocean-on-a-moon-named-miranda">Hidden ocean on a moon named Miranda</h2>



Caleb Strom, a graduate student at the <a href="https://und.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Dakota</a>, and Alex Patthoff from the <a href="https://www.psi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Planetary Science Institute</a> in Arizona joined Nordheim for this fascinating study.



They approached this mystery like detectives working a cold case, revisiting old Voyager 2 images and using modern computer modeling techniques to reconstruct Miranda's geologic past.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/miranda_uranus-moon_ocean_possible-life_Voyager2_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/miranda_uranus-moon_ocean_possible-life_Voyager2_NASA_1s.webp" alt="Uranus’ icy moon Miranda, captured by NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft on Jan. 24, 1986. Credit: NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory-Caltech" class="wp-image-1949103"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Uranus’ icy moon Miranda, captured by NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft on Jan. 24, 1986. Credit: NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory-Caltech</figcaption></figure>



As Strom and his team mapped out Miranda's convoluted surface features and modeled different scenarios for its interior structure, a startling picture began to emerge. 



Their findings suggest that around 100 to 500 million years ago, Miranda likely harbored a subsurface ocean, at least 62 miles deep, beneath a frozen crust no more than 19 miles thick.



"That result was a big surprise to the team," said Strom. The thought that a moon as small as Miranda could contain such a large ocean is not something scientists expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tidal-forces-on-the-moon-miranda">Tidal forces on the moon Miranda</h2>



Even more confusing is the fact that this ocean could have been warm enough to remain liquid, despite Miranda's incredible distance from the Sun. 



The credit goes to a dance of gravitational forces played out between Miranda and her neighboring moons orbiting Uranus.



This phenomenon, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-interactions-with-mars-influence-deep-ocean-circulation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orbital resonance</a>, can generate friction and heat within a moon's interior, enough to sustain a subsurface ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-miranda-still-have-a-liquid-ocean">Could Miranda still have a liquid ocean?</h2>



The case isn't closed yet. The team believes that Miranda's interior hasn't entirely frozen over. If it had, we would see specific surface features that just aren't there. 



So, there's a good chance that Miranda still has a subsurface ocean, though likely thinner than before. 



"But the suggestion of an ocean inside one of the most distant moons in the solar system is remarkable," remarked Strom.



This isn't the first time a small moon has surprised us. Back in 2004, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-sparking-energy-source-found-on-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a>, one of Saturn's moons, revealed active geysers spewing water vapor and ice into space, hinting at a hidden ocean. Today, Enceladus is a prime target in the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-saturns-moon-enceladus-has-all-of-the-ingredients-necessary-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-the-miranda-moon-support-life">Could the Miranda moon support life?</h2>



It's still too early to pack our bags for Miranda, but the possibility of it harboring life is tantalizing. However, as Nordheim points out, we still need more data to confirm if an ocean definitely exists.



While recent research has provided fresh insights into Uranus's moons, we've barely scratched the surface. 



"We're squeezing the last bit of science we can from Voyager 2's images," says Nordheim. 



To truly understand Miranda's potential, we need to launch new missions to Uranus. Until then, we hold our breath and watch this icy moon with great anticipation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-miranda-ocean-worlds-and-extraterrestrial-life">Miranda, ocean worlds, and extraterrestrial life</h2>



In the grand scheme of our solar system, Miranda might just be the underdog story we didn't see coming. 



This tiny moon, once thought to be a frozen, inactive world, could be hiding a vast ocean beneath its patchwork surface. 



The idea that such a small body, orbiting one of the most distant planets, might have an environment capable of sustaining life is nothing short of mind-blowing.



All of this goes to show that there's so much left to discover out there. Revisiting old data with fresh eyes has opened up new possibilities and questions. 



Maybe it's high time we head back to Uranus and take a closer look at Miranda and its neighboring moons.



The full study was published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/ad77d7">The Planetary Science Journal</a>.



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Moon named "Miranda" orbiting Uranus seems to have an ocean and possibly life

A recent study points to an exciting possibility: that Uranus's...

Welcome to the era of technology, where an entire generation's lives are intertwined with screens, digital devices, and many hours spent sitting in a chair.



Millennials are now sitting over 60 hours a week - an activity, or rather inactivity, that is draining their health.



This concerning trend was discovered by researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of California Riverside.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sitting-epidemic-and-premature-aging">Sitting epidemic and premature aging </h2>



Millennials, the group known for disrupting norms and setting trends, are spending over 2.5 days of their week sitting. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-can-counteract-the-health-risks-of-sitting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sedentary lifestyle</a> could have severe implications for their health, increasing the risk of heart disease and premature aging.



The experts investigated the health impact of prolonged sitting on young adults, looking at measures like cholesterol and body mass index (BMI). There were over 1,000 participants, including 730 twins, and the results were quite revealing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-of-sedentary-behavior">Health implications of sedentary behavior </h2>



Busting the myth that 20 minutes of daily moderate exercise was enough to counter the effects of sitting all day, the results of the study tell a different story. Those 20 minutes may not be enough to counteract the dormant dragon of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sedentary-behavior-sitting-for-hours-health-risk-early-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sedentary</a> hazards.



"Our research suggests that sitting less throughout the day, getting more vigorous exercise, or a combination of both may be necessary to reduce the risk of premature aging in early adulthood," said study senior author Chandra Reynolds, a professor in the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/ibg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Behavioral Genetics</a>.



The study was also led by Ryan Bruellman, a Ph.D. candidate in Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics at <a href="https://www.ucr.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a>.



In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bruellman noticed how increased sitting time was becoming a norm for him and his peers. This kick-started his curiosity about the health implications of sedentary behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-sitting-on-aging">Impact of sitting on aging</h2>



"Young adults tend to think they are impervious to the impacts of aging. They figure, 'My metabolism is great, I don't have to worry until I'm in my 50s or 60s,'" said Bruellman. "But what you do during this critical time of life matters."



The data analyzed was from participants between 28 and 49 years old, with an average age of 33. 



The participants reported sitting almost 9 hours daily, on average, with some even sitting up to 16 hours. The counteractive effects of moderate physical activities were hardly adequate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-and-metabolic-diseases">Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases</h2>



According to the study, those who sat for 8.5 hours per day, exercising at or below current recommendations, could enter a "moderate to high risk" category for cardiovascular and metabolic disease. 



A quick walk after a workday may not cut it anymore, particularly for early adults. But there's a silver lining. Vigorous activities, like running or cycling, for 30 minutes daily, showed promising results.



Those who were active had cholesterol and BMI measures similar to individuals who were 5 to 10 years younger. However, even vigorous activity could not entirely erase the impacts of prolonged sitting.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduce-sitting-time-for-better-health">Reduce sitting time for better health</h2>



The researchers found that replacing sitting time with exercise seemed to work better to improve cholesterol levels than merely doing exercise after a long day of sitting. 



The bottom line is trying to balance between reducing sitting time and increasing vigorous exercise.



Prolonged sitting has implications that extend beyond physical health; it also impacts mental well-being. Studies indicate a correlation between high sedentary behavior and increased rates of anxiety, depression, and reduced cognitive function. 



When engaging in long periods of inactivity, the brain receives less blood flow, which, over time, can lead to diminished mental acuity and emotional distress. 



People who incorporate more physical movement into their day tend to report higher levels of happiness and cognitive engagement, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between work and physical activity for holistic well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steps-for-a-more-active-lifestyle">Steps for a more active lifestyle</h2>



Transitioning from a sedentary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-to-set-realistic-goals-and-achieve-them-in-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a> to a more active one requires practical changes that can be integrated into daily routines. Individuals can break their sitting time by setting hourly reminders to stand, stretch, or walk for a few minutes.



Brief high-intensity workouts or burst activity sessions throughout the day can preclude negative health effects. By prioritizing movement, individuals can mitigate the unforeseen impacts of prolonged sitting.



Bruellman's advice? Spice up your office habits. Try standing desks or walking meetings, and take breaks to stretch. Become a "weekend warrior," packing in those vigorous workouts when you can.



Meanwhile, Reynolds urges young adults to take proactive steps towards building habits that will benefit their health in the long run.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0308660" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Sitting too much can cause premature aging, even if you exercise

Welcome to the era of technology, where an entire generation's...

Beautiful,Gemstones,In,The,Old,Gestone,Mine

According to most scientists, we see only a fraction of the universe -- about five percent, to be more precise. The stars, planets, gas clouds, and even black holes we observe make up just a tiny sliver of what's out there. The rest is referred to as dark matter.



Patrick Huber, a physicist with a penchant for bold ideas, is leading a team that's trying to find the missing 95 percent. 



Instead of using massive telescopes or particle accelerators, they're looking for this dark matter in billion-year-old rocks right here on Earth.



Based at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a>, Huber and his collaborators are on an unconventional quest to detect dark matter by examining ancient minerals deep within the Earth. 



They're building a new lab to test their theories, backed by significant funding from the National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>) and the National Nuclear Security Administration (<a href="https://www.energy.gov/nnsa/national-nuclear-security-administration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NNSA</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dark-matter-mystery">The dark matter mystery</h2>



Dark matter is a mysterious substance that doesn't emit or absorb light, making it invisible to traditional instruments. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Most scientists believe it exists</a> because galaxies rotate faster than they should based on the visible matter alone. Something unseen must be providing the extra <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theory-gravity-exists-without-mass-so-dark-matter-does-not-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational pull</a>.



For decades, researchers have tried to catch a glimpse of dark matter by setting up experiments deep underground to shield them from cosmic rays. 



But so far, these efforts haven't yielded <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-are-not-the-secret-source-of-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concrete evidence</a>. Huber's team is flipping the script by looking into the Earth's own history for signs of dark matter interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-not-try-something-new">Why not try something new?</h2>



"It's crazy. When I first heard about this idea, I was like -- this is insane. I want to do it," Huber said. 



He's stepping out of his comfort zone as a theoretical physicist to dive into experimental work. "Other people in their midlife crisis might take a mistress or get a sports car. I got a lab," he joked.



The concept is to examine the crystal structures of ancient rocks for tiny disruptions caused by dark matter particles colliding with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atomic-nucleus-made-of-quarks-and-gluons-reproduced-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atomic nuclei</a>. 



Over billions of years, these rare events might have left subtle tracks that advanced imaging techniques can detect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter-tracks-hidden-in-rocks">Dark matter tracks hidden in rocks</h2>



"When a high-energy particle bounces off a nucleus inside a rock, it can knock it out of place," explained Vsevolod Ivanov, a researcher collaborating with Huber. 



"We'll take a crystal that's been exposed to different particles for millions of years and subtract the distributions that correspond to things we do know. Whatever is left must be something new, and that could be the dark matter."



One of the challenges is distinguishing these potential dark matter signals from the background noise of natural radioactivity. 



Robert Bodnar, a University Distinguished Professor and expert in geochemistry, is helping the team identify the best minerals to study -- ones that have been shielded from both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-rays-help-archaeologists-determine-age-discoveries-prehistoric-settlements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic rays</a> and Earth's own radioactive emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-edge-imaging-techniques">Cutting-edge imaging techniques</h2>



To visualize these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/directly-detecting-dark-matter-primordial-black-holes-simple-as-monitoring-mars-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny disruptions</a>, the team is using cutting-edge imaging technology borrowed from microbiology. 



Collaborators at the University of Zurich's <a href="https://www.hifo.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain Research Institute</a> have provided access to equipment typically used to map neural pathways in animals.



They've started generating 3D images of particle tracks in synthetic lithium fluoride crystals. 



While these artificial crystals aren't suitable for detecting dark matter, they serve as a test bed to refine the imaging techniques without damaging precious natural samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-byproducts-of-dark-matter-rock-hunting">Byproducts of dark matter rock hunting</h2>



In an unexpected twist, the methods developed for this project might have immediate applications. 



"We're seeing potential for creating portable devices to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molten-salt-could-reshape-the-future-of-nuclear-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuclear reactors</a>," Huber noted. These "nuclear transparency devices" could enhance safety and security measures.



The interdisciplinary nature of the team is one of its strengths. Combining physics, geology, and advanced imaging, they're breaking down traditional barriers between fields. 



"This kind of collaboration is where new discoveries happen," Huber said.



The new lab being built at Robeson Hall is a hub for innovation. With $3.5 million from the National Science Foundation and an additional $750,000 from the National Nuclear Security Administration, the project is well-resourced to tackle its ambitious goals.



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



While the hunt for dark matter is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-stars-conspiracy-theory-may-have-been-officially-put-to-rest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primary focus</a>, the team is open to wherever the research leads them. 



"Science doesn't always give you what you expect," Huber remarked. "Sometimes, you set out to answer one question and end up discovering something entirely different."



If successful, this approach could revolutionize our understanding of the universe. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unending-search-for-elusive-dark-matter-detector-lz-sets-new-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Finding evidence</a> of dark matter interactions in ancient rocks would not only confirm its existence but also open new avenues for studying its properties.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter-in-earth-rocks-why-not">Dark matter in Earth rocks? Why not?</h2>



It's a big "if," but Huber and his team are undeterred. "We're venturing into the unknown," he said. "But that's where the most exciting discoveries are made."



To sum it all up, Patrick Huber and his team are taking a wild swing at one of physics' biggest mysteries by digging into ancient rocks. 



They're hoping that by examining these billion-year-old minerals, they might spot tiny disruptions caused by dark matter particles interacting with atomic nuclei -- something no one else has pulled off yet. 



With a mix of physics, geology, and some pretty fancy imaging tech, they hope that taking the road less traveled may open doors to unexpected applications like portable nuclear monitoring devices.



As they begin breaking open Earth rocks in hopes of solving one of the biggest remaining scientific mysteries, one can't help but root them on. 



Maybe, just maybe, the secrets of the universe have been right under our feet all this time.



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Dark matter search has moved from space to the inside of old Earth rocks and crystals

According to most scientists, we see only a fraction of...

Viruses, those tiny invaders wriggling their way into host cells are a marvel of biological survival. Among them, arteriviruses, found in a variety of animals across the globe, have evoked great interest.



These viruses have remained largely elusive to the human immune system. A recent study has unveiled an intriguing mechanism by which arteriviruses sneak into host cells and initiate an infection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-friendly-protein-turned-foe">Friendly protein turned foe</h2>



In the center of this microscopic drama is a protein found in mammals - an unsuspecting gatekeeper that unwittingly opens the door to arteriviruses.



The research team also discovered a monoclonal antibody - an immune system ally - that binds to this protein, effectively shielding the cells from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-a-virus-capable-of-causing-a-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viral infection</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arterivirus-infections">Arterivirus infections</h2>



Why should we concern ourselves with arteriviruses? These are viruses that we do not have immunity against.



“It’s important to consider that since we have no known arteriviruses infecting people that we’re essentially immunologically naïve, so we can’t rely on preexisting immunity to help us,” said co-lead author&nbsp;Cody Warren, assistant professor of&nbsp;<a href="https://vet.osu.edu/departments-offices/biosciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">veterinary biosciences</a>&nbsp;at The Ohio State University (<a href="https://www.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSU</a>).



To understand the gravity of the situation, we must consider the potential implications. Arteriviruses are found in various mammals like non-human primates, possums, pigs, and horses. They are often present without causing noticeable disease.



But, when they switch hosts, the viruses can cause serious health problems such as pneumonia, hemorrhagic fever, or encephalitis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-of-a-virus-in-a-cell">Journey of a virus in a cell</h2>



In the realm of viruses, breaking and entering is a step-by-step process. For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-use-gps-to-move-precisely-within-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arteriviruses</a>, the first stop is the FcRn receptor, a protein complex formed by the coming together of two genes - FCGRT and B2M. This receptor otherwise plays a benign role, carrying antibodies across the placenta to a fetus.



However, when a virus comes along, the FcRn receptor becomes a conduit for infection. It is responsible for ushering in at least five different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/influenza-is-considered-the-biggest-pandemic-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arteriviruses</a> infecting monkeys, pigs, and horses.



When the researchers disrupted the FCGRT gene, the primary component of the FcRn complex, the cells became resistant to the infection. Better yet, pre-treating cells with monoclonal antibodies against FcRn protected them entirely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arteriviral-infection-of-host-cells">Arteriviral infection of host cells</h2>



There's a fascinating genetic subplot to this story. It turns out, the susceptibility of mammalian hosts to the arterivirus infection varies based on differences in their FcRn's genetic sequence. 



Essentially, the sequence variations of this receptor protein can either facilitate or impede cross-species infections.



The surface protein CD163, which has a history of playing a gatekeeper role for the simian hemorrhagic fever virus (an arterivirus), also came into the spotlight in this study. 



Experiments demonstrated that CD163 interacts with FcRn and aids in arteriviral infection of host cells. By identifying these arterivirus infection steps, we have reached an important milestone.



“If we’re looking at virus biology, one of the most important things we can understand is entry mechanisms. Because if you can stop the ability of a virus to infect a cell through disrupting that initial virus-receptor contact, now you have a potential therapeutic strategy,” said Warren.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-prepared-for-the-next-pandemic">Getting prepared for the next pandemic </h2>



Unveiling the secrets of how arteriviruses infiltrate host cells leaves us better prepared to face any future viral threats that may emerge. 



With an existing monoclonal antibody that can prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-viruses-link-up-and-bloom-into-amazing-sunflower-structures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viral infection</a> in cells, we have a ray of hope in our pre-pandemic preparedness toolkit.



"If one of these viruses emerged in humans, I believe we’d be in big trouble. So that is the motivator for me,” said Adam Bailey, assistant professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a> and co-lead author of the study.



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



Knowledge is indeed power. As we deepen our understanding of viruses infecting cells, we inch closer to better prevention methods and ideally, fewer global health crises. 



"Understanding the nuances of species-specific FcRn utilization will be important in anticipating the spillover of arteriviruses into new hosts, as our data indicates that FcRn can function as a molecular barrier to cross-species arterivirus infection," wrote the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51142-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Animal viruses have a secret ally to infect human cells

Viruses, those tiny invaders wriggling their way into host cells...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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

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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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Tropical cyclone Boloetse in the Mozambique Channel, in between Madagascar and the east coast of Africa . In this image was acquired on February 3, 2006. It is forecast to strike Madagascar during the early morning hours of February 4, 2006.
Although the storm reached a peak of about 90 knots or 104 miles per hour (1 knot = 1.15 mph) and was projected to weaken into a tropical storm by February 5. The storm has already crossed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/madagascar-waters-oil-exploration/">Madagascar</a> once as a weaker tropical storm. Then it regained strength from the warm waters within the Mozambique Channel, where it reformed to have another go at the island.
Tropical cyclones are given names in order to reduce confusion when disseminating information about them, particularly in times of emergency. The World Meteorological Organization, a branch of the United Nations, maintains a list from which storm names are chosen. Therefore the Tropical cyclones are large, rotating regions of wind, clouds, and thunderstorms formed over warm tropical oceans. Also a tropical cyclone (of sufficient strength) in the Caribean basin is called a hurricane.

Tropical Cyclone Boloetse in the Mozambique Channel

A series of images demonstrate how satellite imagery can been used to distinguish -and map - between snow and clouds. The first image that displays is a color composite image of snow, fog, and low clouds in <a href="http://www.earth.com/image/mountains-in-central-europe/">Central Europe.</a>

With this type of image, colors are assigned according to the intensity with which the land or ocean surface reflects sunlight, much in the same way as an ordinary digital camera. For example, objects or phenomena that reflect the red portion of the spectrum are assigned the color red; things that reflect red very strongly are given a higher intensity than things that reflect red less strongly. The same is true for blue and green, the other primary colors.

However, unlike the human eye, satellites also collect information in other parts of the spectrum, such as the near infrared. By assigning these other bands that humans are not able to see to colors that we can see, a false color composite it formed; this is the type of image that displays when you place your mouse over the first image. Often, these images are useful for highlighting certain features.

In this image, longer wavelength sunlight (short-wave infrared) is assigned to the color red; objects that strongly reflect the short-wave infrared (such as bare soil) will appear deep red. The near infrared is assigned to the color green; vegetation is highly reflective of near infrared light and thus appears very bright green.  The satellites bands are numbered somewhat arbitrarily; the short-wave infrared band is number 7, near infrared is called band 2 and red is band 1. In this image, clouds appear to be a very light blue, while ice and snow appear to be a much darker and more vibrant blue.