On September 29, 2024, something unusual happened in our cosmic neighborhood. Earth captured a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5, turning it into a temporary mini-moon. 



That's right... as of today, November 2, 2024, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth has two moons</a>.



Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>), shed some light on these fleeting celestial companions.



"These happen more often than we think, but they're small and tough to spot," Binzel explained. "Only lately have our telescopes become powerful enough to catch them regularly."



Back in August, a team of astronomers from the <a href="https://www.ucm.es/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Complutense University</a> of Madrid detected the small space rock using a powerful telescope in Sutherland, South Africa.



They weren't the only ones keeping an eye on it. The asteroid was first noticed on August 7, 2024 by NASA's Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (<a href="https://atlas.fallingstar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ATLAS</a>) at Haleakala Observatory in Hawaii.



This discovery sparked excitement among astronomers, offering a chance to learn more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth objects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-2024-pt5">What exactly is 2024 PT5?</h2>



Earth occasionally captures small asteroids like 2024 PT5, placing them into temporary orbits around our planet. 



While most asteroids circle the sun on their regular paths, some venture close enough for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-global-electric-field-discovered-equally-important-gravity-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's gravity</a> to snatch them up for a brief visit.



These cosmic visitors only stay in Earth's orbit for a short time -- typically a few weeks or months -- before breaking free and resuming their solar journey.



Each mini-moon gives scientists a rare opportunity to examine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27500-hidden-near-earth-asteroids-discovered-using-google-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth asteroids</a> up close, revealing valuable insights about our solar system's mechanics.



So, what makes this asteroid special, aside from the fact that new technology and the internet made it famous? 



William Blackmore, Planetarium Director and Astronomy Instructor at <a href="https://www.mhcc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mt. Hood Community College</a>, offered his thoughts.



"All mini-moons are unique in their own way," Blackmore explained. "This one isn't different from others except that it's the most recent.”



2024 PT5 will be around for about two more weeks, probably until mid-November.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-2024-pt5-to-our-moon">Comparing 2024 PT5 to our moon</h2>



Let's compare our moon to this new mini-moon: 2024 PT5 is only about 37 feet across, while our familiar moon stretches a massive 2,159 miles in diameter. That makes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-earth-get-its-moon-a-new-theory-has-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our moon</a> over 300,000 times wider than this tiny asteroid.



Knowing it’s up there is pretty exciting, even though we can't see it for ourselves without an invitation to a huge Earth telescope installation.



“These temporary captures are natural cosmic laboratories,” Binzel mentioned. “They help us understand the small bodies that come close to Earth and could be important for future space missions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-asteroid-2024-pt5-became-famous">How Asteroid 2024 PT5 became famous</h2>



Understanding how 2024 PT5 became Earth's temporary moon involves a bit of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-order-in-the-chaos-of-the-three-body-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orbital mechanics</a>. 



Blackmore explained, "It's moving along with us in our orbit around the sun. It's part of a group of asteroids called the Arjuna asteroids, which move at about the same pace as Earth."



He added an interesting analogy: "Imagine a skateboarder dropping into a skate park. They ride the curves, adding energy as they go. That's like the asteroid getting caught in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-debris-will-create-a-human-made-meteor-shower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's gravitational field</a>, riding the curve before moving on."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-spotting-mini-moons">Significance of spotting mini-moons</h2>



Spotting mini-moons is tough because they're incredibly small and faint. These tiny asteroids are often just a few dozen feet across, which means they don't reflect much sunlight. That makes them nearly invisible against the dark backdrop of space.



Plus, they're zipping around at high speeds and don't hang around for long, so by the time we point our telescopes their way, they might already be gone. 



It's like trying to catch a glimpse of a firefly from miles away -- you need the right conditions and equipment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-high-tech-telescopes">Modern high-tech telescopes</h2>



Astronomers find them by using powerful telescopes equipped with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gaia-reveals-moons-around-hundreds-of-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensitive detectors and smart software</a>.



Projects like the ATLAS system scan the skies every night, searching for any objects that weren't there before. 



When they spot something moving in a way that suggests it's close to Earth, they alert other astronomers to help confirm the find. 



It's a collaborative effort, combining technology and teamwork to spot these elusive cosmic visitors.



Knowing more about these temporary moons helps us prepare for any potential asteroid threats and opens up possibilities for mining resources from near-Earth objects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-observing-2024-pt5">Challenges in observing 2024 PT5</h2>



For those eager to see this mini-moon, both experts warned that it would be extremely difficult. "You'd need a telescope with a diameter of at least 30 inches," Blackmore mentioned. "That's beyond what most amateur astronomers have."



Todd agreed, adding, "It won't be visible to the naked eye. Being 33 feet wide and so far away, you'd need a very large telescope."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



While 2024 PT5 doesn't pose any threat to Earth, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-a-fifth-force-of-nature-asteroids-provide-new-clues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying it is crucial</a>. 



"It's important to analyze how it moves and interacts with Earth's gravitational pull," Blackmore said. "This helps us refine our techniques for tracking objects that could cross our path again."



Todd highlighted the practical applications of this knowledge. 



"We need to understand how to intercept an asteroid at a distance and change its direction," he said. "This could be vital in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preventing potential impacts</a> in the future."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-for-future-space-missions">Inspiration for future space missions</h2>



Blackmore envisioned future missions that could take advantage of these temporary visitors. 



"It would be fascinating if we had missions ready to send small satellites or probes to these objects when they come close," he mused. "Imagine building a network of sensors or cameras traveling along with us, like space webcams."



Todd also saw <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-named-psyche-is-worth-10000-quadrillion-for-whoever-can-extract-minerals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential in asteroid mining</a> and scientific discovery. 



"There might be materials on these asteroids that we can't find on Earth," he said. "They could solve problems in medicine or technology. But we need to weigh the benefits carefully."



To sum it all up, the brief visit of asteroid 2024 PT5 serves as a reminder of the dynamic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroids-were-formed-in-cold-regions-of-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature of our solar system</a>. 



While it won't be with us for long -- just a couple more weeks -- its presence offers valuable opportunities for learning and exploration.



As technology advances, we'll likely spot more of these mini-moons. Each one gives us a chance to understand our cosmic environment better and prepare for the future. 



So even though you'll never see it, you might want to spare a moment of your time and stop to appreciate 2024 PT5 while you still can.



The full study was published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2515-5172/ad781f" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal IOPscience</a>.



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Earth's second moon, a mini-moon, will drift away in a few days and never return

On September 29, 2024, something unusual happened in our cosmic neighborhood. Earth captured a tiny asteroid named 2024 PT5, turning it into a temporary mini-moon. That's right... as of today, November 2, 2024, Earth has two moons. Richard Binzel, an astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), shed some light on these fleeting celestial companions. "These happen more often than we think, but they're small and tough to spot," Binzel explained. "Only lately have our telescopes become powerful enough to catch them regularly." Back in August,...

Humans may be partially responsible for the reduction in brain size observed in domestic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-humans-close/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>. Researchers in Hungary have discovered that domestic dogs possess significantly smaller brains compared to their wild ancestor, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-return-of-the-gray-wolf-triumph-or-tragedy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gray wolf</a>. 



This change is attributed to domestic dogs living in less complex environments, which require less cognitive effort than the wild environments gray wolves inhabit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-domestication-occurred-passively-nbsp">Dog domestication occurred passively&nbsp;</h2>



Genetic analyses of the oldest known dog remains indicate that dogs were domesticated in a single event by humans living in Eurasia approximately 20,000 to 40,000 years ago.&nbsp;



According to Krishna Veeramah, an assistant professor of evolution at <a href="https://www.stonybrook.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stony Brook University</a>, this process has probably been very complex, involving many generations where distinctive dog traits evolved gradually.



“The current hypothesis suggests that dog domestication likely occurred passively. A population of wolves likely lived on the outskirts of hunter-gatherer camps, feeding on human refuse. Tamer and less aggressive wolves would have been more successful in this environment,” explained Professor Veeramah.



“While humans initially did not gain any direct benefit, over time, a symbiotic [mutually beneficial] relationship developed between the humans and these animals, eventually leading to the dogs we see today.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-size-in-domestic-dogs-nbsp">Brain size in domestic dogs&nbsp;</h2>



The new study, led by László Zsolt Garamszegi from the Institute of Ecology and Botany at the <a href="https://ecolres.hun-ren.hu/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Ecological Research</a> in Hungary, suggests that other factors might also influence the reduction in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-dogs-have-larger-brains-than-ancient-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain size</a> in domestic dogs, although these factors are not clearly identified. 



The researchers noted that in the wild, phenomena like hibernation could contribute to brain size reduction in other canid species.



“The dog is a canid species that was domesticated from its ancestral species the gray wolf at least 15,000 years ago,” the experts wrote.&nbsp;



“Over 400 breeds of dogs exist today, and the overall pattern is that relative brain size is dramatically reduced in dogs as compared with the ancestral species, the gray wolf.”&nbsp;



This idea, that domestication has led to smaller brains in dogs, is widely accepted among veterinarians and researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domestic-dogs-require-less-brain-capacity">Domestic dogs require less brain capacity</h2>



Domestic dogs face fewer cognitive challenges, such as foraging for food, avoiding predators, and finding mates, compared to their wild counterparts. This reduced need for brain capacity is believed to have led to a gradual decrease in brain size.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, this phenomenon is thought to be a result of the decreased necessity for metabolically costly brain tissue in a domesticated environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-brain-and-body-size">Dog brain and body size</h2>



To investigate whether the brain size of domestic dogs is particularly small relative to their body size when compared to wild canids, the researchers analyzed the brain and body sizes of 25 canid species, including the domestic dog (Canis familiaris), the gray wolf (Canis lupus), and the common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/raccoon-dogs-may-be-a-growing-threat-to-waterbirds-in-finland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raccoon dog</a> (Nyctereutes procyonoides). 



The experts found that domestic dogs have experienced a significant reduction in brain size compared to gray wolves. However, the domestic dog's brain is still relatively large compared to some other canid species studied.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-hibernation-nbsp">The role of hibernation&nbsp;</h2>



An interesting finding of the study is that the common raccoon dog stands out as a “more pronounced outlier” in terms of brain size reduction, having an unusually small brain for its body size. The researchers believe this is due to the raccoon dog's hibernation habits.&nbsp;



“Prolonged periods of food shortage, such as during hibernation, prevents the evolution of large brains due to their constantly high energy demands,” explained the study authors.&nbsp;



The experts conclude that while domestication plays a role in the reduction of brain size in dogs, hibernation also contributes to this phenomenon in wild canids.&nbsp;



The authors caution against viewing domestication as a “uniquely powerful evolutionary force” responsible for shrinking dog brains.&nbsp;



The research has been published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0336" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



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Dogs’ shrinking brain size was partially caused by humans 

Humans may be partially responsible for the reduction in brain...

Our planet is an unceasing spectacle of natural miracles. One such marvel that unwrapped itself in recent times involves the unexpected volcanic activity in the enchanting landscape of Iceland. The volcanic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruption</a> reveals surprising insights into magma origins and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-affects-magma-formation-deep-within-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geological processes</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chunks-of-magma-in-volcanic-episode">Chunks of magma in volcanic episode</h2>



The tale of the most recent volcanic episode on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland, which is expected to last for centuries, traces back to an extensive pooling of magma, lurking just beneath the surface.



The revelations brought to light by an international team of researchers from the United States, Sweden, and Iceland, made the world sit up and take notice.



The research team included scientists from <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography</a>, the Department of Earth Sciences at Uppsala University, and the <a href="https://english.hi.is" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iceland</a> in Reykjavik. The researchers tramped through the heat and the smoke to bring back the truth cloaked under the raven lava fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-findings-about-volcanic-fires">Unexpected findings about volcanic fires </h2>



The recent lavas on the Reykjanes Peninsula were initially considered to have exploded directly from the mantle. But, as it turns out, the story is a bit more complicated.



The research team discovered that the magma, in reality, sprung from the subterranean melting of the Earth's crust.



This melting stemmed from the notorious "Fagradalsfjall Fires" that ignited in 2021. The frequent sampling of the erupted lavas led to a comprehensive analysis of geochemical signals, further reinforcing this revelation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-magma-pooling-from-volcanic-activity">Explosive magma pooling from volcanic activity</h2>



Volcanoes may seem <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-tremors-can-now-be-detected-to-forecast-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unpredictable</a>, but a little peek into their fiery hearts can reveal their secrets. 



“Systematic lava sampling and subsequent analysis of compositional changes in the laboratory, help to decipher what is feeding the volcano at depth,” said first author James Day, a professor of geosciences at Scripps Institute of Oceanography.



“It’s a bit like taking regular measurements of someone’s blood. In this case, the volcano’s ‘blood’ are the molten lavas that emanate so spectacularly from it."



By using the isotopic composition of the element osmium, the research team was able to discern the happenings beneath the volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magma-ascent-through-earth-s-layers">Magma ascent through Earth's layers</h2>



The theory of magma ascent through Earth’s layers has always been spoken of in hushed tones. The researchers have now made the conversation much louder.



Previously, it was believed that the Fagradalsfjall Fires erupted directly without mingling with the crust, but this study has made a definitive case to the contrary.



The researchers found that the 2021 lavas were indeed tainted by the crust, while the 2022 lavas made a clean pass. The earlier lavas must have gathered in the crust before emerging, and the subsequent eruptions found their way through pre-existing routes to the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-volcanic-activity">Implications of volcanic activity</h2>



Volcanic eruptions, like those on the Reykjanes Peninsula, have significant implications for both researchers and society. They can reshape landscapes, impact local climates, and disrupt air travel due to ash clouds. 



Studying these events enhances our understanding of geological processes and informs disaster preparedness. Ultimately, Iceland's volcanic activity serves as a reminder of our responsibility to coexist with our dynamic planet.



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



Study co-author Valentin Troll is a professor at Uppsala University and lead author on a recent study in Terra Nova, which investigated the magma plumbing system in the Reykjanes volcanic area.



"It seems that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/icelands-volcanic-eruptions-may-continue-for-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">‘fires’ in Iceland</a> will last for some time longer, possibly years," said Professor Troll.



While the ongoing eruptions spell disaster for the evacuees of the town of Grindavik, they also offer an opportunity for abundant scientific revelations. 



These volcanic episodes will shed new light on how lava fields develop and how magma migrates from the Earth's core to the surface, thereby enriching our understanding of these magnificent earthy spectacles.



In a nutshell, these fiery giants of Iceland serve as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of our planet and the formidable forces that sculpt it. It's an enduring saga of fire, rock, and human resilience that continues to enthrall and inspire.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07750-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Volcanic magma traced to melting in Earth's crust

Our planet is an unceasing spectacle of natural miracles. One...

Generative AI has revolutionized the digital landscape, captivating the world with its ability to create new data such as text, code, images, and videos.



Models like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-learning-mirrors-chatgpts-training/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI's GPT-4</a> and Stability AI's Stable Diffusion have showcased remarkable proficiency in these areas. 



However, these advancements come with a significant challenge: the immense data required to train these models is becoming increasingly scarce, potentially depleting available resources. 



As data scarcity looms, synthetic data emerges as a promising alternative. It's not only cheaper and virtually limitless but also poses fewer privacy risks and, in some cases, enhances AI performance. 



Yet, recent research by the Digital Signal Processing group at <a href="https://www.rice.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a> highlights a critical issue: the potential pitfalls of relying on synthetic data, with the stakes higher than ever before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-problem-of-self-consuming-loops">Problem of "self-consuming" loops</h2>



This research reveals that a diet of synthetic data can significantly impact the future iterations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">generative AI</a> models. 



But how does this occur? Professor Richard Baraniuk explained: “The problems arise when this synthetic data training is, inevitably, repeated, forming a kind of a feedback loop - what we call an autophagous or ‘self-consuming’ loop.”



The group's research has delved deep into these feedback loops and concluded that after several generations of such training, the new models can become irreversibly corrupted. 



This has been dubbed Model Autophagy Disorder or MAD, a term Baraniuk finds fitting by drawing an analogy to mad cow disease.



MAD cow disease, a fatal neurodegenerative illness in cows, spreads due to the practice of feeding cows the processed leftovers of their slaughtered peers - hence the term “autophagy,” from the Greek auto-, which means “self,” and phagy - “to eat.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsettling-findings-behind-ai-and-data-security">Unsettling findings behind AI and data security</h2>



Baraniuk and his team presented their startling findings in a paper titled “Self-Consuming Generative Models Go MAD.” 



This paper is the first peer-reviewed work on AI autophagy and focuses on generative image models like the popular DALL·E 3, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion.



The Rice University group studied three variations of self-consuming training loops to provide a realistic representation of how real and synthetic data are combined into training datasets for generative models. 



The study revealed that over time, and without enough fresh real data, the models would generate increasingly distorted outputs, lacking either quality, diversity, or both.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sinister-ai-futures-and-data-protection">Sinister AI futures and data protection</h2>



The study paints a chilling picture of potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/truth-deception-future-of-ai-artificial-intelligence-lie-detection-machines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI futures</a>. Image datasets of human faces become gradually distorted with grid-like scars, referred as “generative artifacts,” or increasingly resemble the same person. Datasets of numbers morph into indecipherable scribbles.



“Our theoretical and empirical analyses have enabled us to extrapolate what might happen as generative models become ubiquitous and train future models in self-consuming loops,” said Baraniuk.



"Some ramifications are clear: without enough fresh real data, future generative models are doomed to MADness."



To make their simulations more representative, the researchers introduced a sampling bias parameter to account for “cherry picking” - the tendency of users to favor data quality over diversity. 



This choice preserves data quality over a greater number of model iterations but causes an even steeper decline in diversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-mad-to-catastrophe-doomsday-scenario">From MAD to catastrophe: Doomsday scenario</h2>



“One doomsday scenario is that if left uncontrolled for many generations, MAD could poison the data quality and diversity of the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/internet-addiction-where-do-you-fall-on-the-spectrum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internet</a>,” warned Baraniuk.



The implications are staggering. As yet unseen unintended consequences could arise from AI autophagy, even in the short term.



As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, it is crucial to understand and rectify these potential issues before they trigger a digital apocalypse. 



The path to success would require careful navigation to avoid the pitfalls of MAD and continue harnessing the power of AI safely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-to-combat-madness">Solutions to combat MADness</h2>



To tackle the challenges of Model Autophagy Disorder, innovative strategies are needed to mitigate its impact on generative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-model-gives-air-quality-forecasts-that-are-similar-to-weather-forecasts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI models</a>. One effective approach is integrating diverse data sources into the training process, reducing reliance on repetitive synthetic datasets and enhancing the richness of training data.



Establishing robust data curation practices is also crucial. By implementing protocols to assess the quality and relevance of both real and synthetic data, we can maintain high standards and minimize the risk of generating distorted outputs. Collaborations between AI developers, data scientists, and ethicists can ensure ethical data sourcing and promote integrity.



Exploring adaptive learning algorithms that dynamically adjust training strategies based on incoming data quality and diversity is another key avenue. This adaptability would help AI models self-correct and evolve alongside real-world information.



Lastly, fostering transparency and collaboration within the AI community can facilitate the sharing of insights and best practices. By working together, researchers and developers can address challenges like MAD and develop effective solutions.



While the risks associated with synthetic data and self-consuming loops are significant, proactive measures can ensure a sustainable future for generative AI. Prioritizing diversity, quality, and collaboration can help harness the full potential of AI while safeguarding against MADness.



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Could generative AI go MAD and wreck internet data?

Generative AI has revolutionized the digital landscape, captivating the world...

Ever wondered about the weather conditions down in the deep sea? Like the silent depths, the answer holds more intrigue and revelation than you might first imagine.



Just the latest word in from a compelling new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01494-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>. It seems the deep sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-circumpolar-current-speed-increasing-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">currents</a>, much like our terrestrial weather, are not quite as steady and predictable as we thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-in-the-deep-sea">Weather in the deep sea</h2>



The seafloor, the ultimate destination for different kinds of particles, stores a wealth of information. From sand and mud to organic carbon food for seafloor organisms, even pollutants, they all end up there. 



These accumulations provide us invaluable clues to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-paradox-ocean-current-collapse-could-plunge-europe-into-cold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">past climates</a>, natural hazards, and oceanic conditions. It's like a historical archive but with data that extends far beyond human records.



Dr. Mike Clare, the leading scientist on the project from the <a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Oceanography Centre</a> (NOC), paints a vivid picture of the ocean deep.&nbsp;



“It is important to understand the behavior and pathways of currents that operate in the deep sea, in order to determine pathways of natural and human-made particles and make sense of those records preserved in deposits," said Dr. Clare.



“However, there have been very few direct measurements made of currents that flow across the seafloor in deep waters. Most are made high above the seafloor, over short timescales, and only at individual locations. Until now we have not understood how dynamic seafloor currents can be in the deep sea."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensing-the-pulse-of-the-ocean">Sensing the pulse of the ocean</h2>



In a trailblazing effort, researchers from the UK, Canada, Germany, and Italy teamed up. Over four years, they analyzed data from the largest array of sensors ever deployed in the deep sea.&nbsp;



Thirty-four deep-sea moorings armed with high-frequency Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (think underwater speed cameras for currents) measured the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-warming-four-times-faster-than-global-average/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> currents at water depths up to 2.5 km.



The findings challenged longstanding assumptions. Contrary to previous models that suggested a continuous and steady flow of currents, the data collected indicated that the currents were anything but uniform.



The deep ocean currents were characterized by periods of acceleration, moments of slowdown, and even instances where they reversed direction entirely.



This variability was often influenced by local factors, particularly the irregular relief of the seafloor, which created a dynamic interplay that shaped the flow patterns in unexpected ways. 



Such insights not only deepen our understanding of oceanic currents but also highlight the intricate relationships between underwater topography and fluid dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-deep-sea-weather">Insights into deep-sea weather</h2>



Professor Elda Miramontes from MARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Geosciences at the <a href="https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bremen</a>, is excited by the novelty and the potential implications of these measurements. 



"These are the first measurements of deep-sea currents across such a large area, long duration and so close to the seafloor. This makes them extremely valuable as they will help improve our models for reconstructing past changes related to climate change in the ocean," noted Professor Miramontes.



“The ocean bottom currents offshore Mozambique are far more variable than we expected," said study lead author Dr. Lewis Bailey. "Just like currents in the upper ocean, their intensity changes between seasons and can even flip backwards and forwards over the course of several hours."



Study co-author Dr. Ian Kane said that seeing how these currents behave is a bit like observing the weather in Manchester - always changing and often surprising. 



"But observing change in the deep sea is really challenging and, until now, we have had a poor understanding of what background conditions are like in the deep-sea," noted Dr. Kane.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-deep-sea-dynamics">Understanding deep sea dynamics</h2>



Amusing to Dr. Clare, this study underlines the importance of sustained deep-sea observations, which provide critical information on understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atlantic-ocean-currents-slowing-as-water-temperature-rises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a>. 



"More detailed observations are critical for understanding the important role bottom currents play in transporting sediment, carbon and pollutants across our planet."



With these breakthrough findings, we have taken a significant stride towards understanding our oceans better. However, the mysteries of the deep are still far from fully unveiled. 



As we continue exploring, what other surprises might the deep sea have in store for us? Only time, and our ceaseless curiosity, will tell.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01494-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Weather in the deep sea is not as predictable as we thought

Ever wondered about the weather conditions down in the deep...

Hand,Opens,Universe,Shocking,Discovery,Life,Is,A,Computer,Simulation

Have you ever considered the possibility that our reality might be an intricately crafted computer simulation? There is a name for this theory -- Simulation Hypothesis -- and it is now being tested in quantum lab experiments.



Though it may initially resemble a plot from the latest sci-fi blockbuster, a dedicated group of researchers is rigorously exploring this intriguing concept.



They are investigating the philosophical implications and technological advancements that could render such a simulation plausible.



Are we merely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simulation-hypothesis-are-humans-living-in-a-simulated-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">characters in a grand digital narrative</a>, or is there a deeper truth waiting to be uncovered?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-experiments-to-prove-simulation-hypothesis">Quantum experiments to prove Simulation Hypothesis</h2>



At California State Polytechnic University in Pomona (<a href="https://www.cpp.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPP</a>), a remarkable team of scientists is preparing to embark on mind-bending experiments that could challenge and redefine the fundamental principles of physics.



Leading this ambitious initiative is <a href="http://www.doorwaytothefuture.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Thomas Campbell</a>, a distinguished former <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> physicist renowned for his expertise in complex theoretical models and space exploration. His extensive experience and innovative perspective are invaluable assets to the team.



Collaborating closely with Campbell is <a href="https://www.cpp.edu/faculty/fkhoshnoud/index.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Farbod Khoshnoud</a>, who heads a dedicated research group at CalPoly, Pomona.



Together, they are venturing into uncharted realms of physics, pushing the boundaries of our understanding.



This partnership promises to enrich the academic community, aiming to ignite new ideas that could revolutionize our comprehension of the universe.



What implications might these discoveries have for our understanding of the natural world?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-mechanics-where-reality-gets-weird">Quantum mechanics: Where reality gets weird</h2>



First, in order to really understand these experiments, we need to understand some basics about the mysterious world of quantum mechanics. This scientific field shakes and bakes our basic understanding of the universe.



So, what's weird about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum physics</a>? 



Well, the smallest parts of our universe, like atoms and subatomic particles, don’t follow the normal rules of classical physics we see every day. They act in strange and unexpected ways.



Campbell is taking this a step further. He thinks quantum mechanics is more than just a way to decode how tiny particles behave. He believes it reveals deep truths about reality itself.



By studying complex and baffling ideas from the quantum realm like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-chemical-complexity-of-quantum-decoherence-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superposition</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entanglement</a>, and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uncertainty principle</a>, Campbell suggests we might soon grasp how the universe works. This understanding could change how we see existence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-our-universe-a-big-cosmic-video-game">Is our universe a big cosmic video game?</h2>



Campbell suggests that our reality operates in a manner <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simulation-hypothesis-are-we-living-in-a-computer-simulation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">akin to a video game</a>, generating imagery and experiences "on demand" for its conscious observers, much like how a game creates environments based on player interactions.



"In essence, what you do not see does not exist," Campbell asserts, prompting us to reflect on the profound implications of this perspective.



This notion raises intriguing questions about the nature of perception and reality, challenging our fundamental understanding of existence.



While some may find this idea unconventional, it resonates with interpretations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matter-spacetime-gravitational-waves-fabric-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>, which also emphasize the role of observation in shaping reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulation-hypothesis-the-experiments">Simulation Hypothesis: The experiments</h2>



The intriguing aspect of Campbell's work lies in its profound exploration of the relationship between consciousness and the very fabric of reality.



Unlike many traditional theories that treat consciousness as a mere byproduct of simulation, Campbell posits that it is fundamental to existence itself -- essentially the bedrock upon which the entire simulation operates.



Through a series of meticulously designed experiments, Campbell is placing his controversial theory under the microscope for rigorous examination.



These lab trials are not just a casual inquiry; they aim to delve deep into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/manipulating-quantum-dance-of-spinning-electrons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">peculiar quantum effects</a> that have been observed in the famous double-slit experiment as well as in the intriguing quantum eraser setups.



Researchers are actively seeking evidence to support the notion that reality behaves in response to conscious observation, much like a simulation, rather than as a fixed and independent world.



Each experiment serves as a step toward unraveling the complex interplay between our minds and the universe around us, raising questions about the very nature of existence and perception.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulation-hypothesis-experiments-and-the-future">Simulation Hypothesis experiments and the future</h2>



If Campbell's experiments bear fruit, it could mean a paradigm shift in how we comprehend our universe and our role within it. However, these experiments are unlikely to bring absolute proof that we inhabit a simulation.



Science always seeks to refine our understanding and build up evidence, so think of these experiments as more of a launchpad than a destination.



For now, the research teams are busy as bees, setting up their experiments, ready to dive into the data. The world watches, curious brains included, anticipating what they unearth.



Check out <a href="https://www.testingthehypothesis.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TestingtheHypothesis.com</a> if you're hungry for more details. The website houses a wealth of information about each experiment and acts as a hub for updates about this leading-edge research.



As we wait for the outcome, one certainty shines bright: the pursuit to decode the essence of reality keeps pushing the limits of science and philosophy. Whether we're in a simulation or not, the journey to discover the truth promises to enthrall.



The full premise behind this new study was published in the <a href="https://ijqf.org/archives/4105">International Journal of Quantum Foundations</a>.



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'Simulation Hypothesis' has leaped into serious quantum lab experiments

Have you ever considered the possibility that our reality might...

A recent study led by Syed Ayaz, a graduate research assistant at the <a href="https://www.uah.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alabama in Huntsville</a> (UAH), has investigated kinetic Alfvén waves and their potential role in heating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-coronal-hole-from-geomagnetic-storm-prompts-aurora-alert-for-northern-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar corona</a>.&nbsp;



Ayaz's research, under the guidance of the <a href="https://www.uah.edu/cspar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Space Plasma and Aeronomic Research</a> (CSPAR), addresses the long-standing mystery of why the corona - the sun’s outer atmosphere - is significantly hotter than the sun’s surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mechanism-behind-coronal-heating">The mechanism behind coronal heating</h2>



“For decades, Alfvén waves have been proven to be the best candidates for transporting energy from one place to another,” said Ayaz.&nbsp;



“This paper utilizes a novel approach to model energetic particles in space plasmas, as observed by satellites like Viking and Freja, to answer how the electromagnetic energy of the waves, interacting with particles, transforms into heat during the damping process as the waves move through space.”



This energy transport could be crucial in understanding the mechanism behind coronal heating, as these waves might transfer energy from the sun's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-dynamo-sun-magnetic-field-origin-generated-near-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic fields</a> to the plasma in the corona, raising its temperature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perplexing-heat-of-the-sun-s-corona">Perplexing heat of the sun's corona</h2>



The study primarily focuses on the perturbed electromagnetic fields, Poynting flux vector, and the power delivery rate of kinetic Alfvén waves within the solar atmosphere. 



The corona extends about eight million kilometers above the sun's surface and is perplexing because it reaches temperatures over a million degrees Kelvin, vastly exceeding the sun's surface temperature of approximately 6,500 degrees.



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



Dr. Gary Zank, director of CSPAR and the Aerojet Rocketdyne chair of the UAH Department of Space Science, emphasized the significance of Ayaz's work. 



“Syed is one of our outstanding students who is just starting out on his research career. His abiding interest in Alfvén waves has now resulted in his investigation of these waves at very small scales, the so-called kinetic scale in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plasma-rain-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plasma</a>."



Dr. Zank noted that this research offers important insights into the critical problem of how energy in a magnetic field is transformed to heat a plasma comprising charged particles like protons and electrons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-kinetic-alfven-waves">The role of kinetic Alfvén waves</h2>



Kinetic Alfvén waves (KAWs) are oscillations of ions and magnetic fields in the solar plasma, originating from movements in the photosphere, the sun's outer layer that emits visible light. These waves are crucial in the energy transfer process in plasma environments.&nbsp;



“My primary interest in these waves was sparked by the launches of the Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter missions, which raised the crucial question of how the solar corona is heated,” said Ayaz.



The research team focused on how KAWs facilitate heating and energy exchange within the corona. Observations from various spacecraft and theoretical studies have consistently shown that KAWs dissipate and contribute to heating the solar corona as they travel through space.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transferring-energy-to-plasma-particles-nbsp">Transferring energy to plasma particles&nbsp;</h2>



Kinetic Alfvén waves operate on small kinetic scales and are capable of supporting parallel electric and magnetic field fluctuations, which enable them to transfer energy to plasma particles.



“The present work utilizes and explores the Landau damping mechanism, which occurs when particles moving parallel to a wave have velocities comparable to the wave's phase velocity,” noted Ayaz.&nbsp;



The Landau damping mechanism allows for an exponential decrease in particular waveforms within the plasma, either transferring energy from the wave to the particles or vice versa, depending on their interaction.



The study's findings suggest that KAWs dissipate rapidly, transferring their energy to plasma particles, which then accelerates them over large distances. This energy transfer has significant implications for the dynamics of the solar plasma, contributing to the overall heating of the corona.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-dynamics-within-the-sun-s-corona-nbsp">Energy dynamics within the sun's corona&nbsp;</h2>



The insights gained from this research are essential for understanding the complex processes at work in the sun's atmosphere.&nbsp;



The study advances our knowledge of the energy dynamics within the corona and provides a framework for future investigations into solar and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> phenomena.&nbsp;



Ayaz's work, supported by CSPAR and the Department of Space Science, represents a significant step forward in heliophysics research, with potential applications in understanding the behavior of plasmas in various astrophysical settings.



“The analytical insights gleaned from this study find practical application in understanding phenomena within the solar atmosphere, particularly shedding light on the significant role played by nonthermal particles in the observed heating processes,” concluded the researchers.



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Why is the sun’s corona hotter than its surface? 

A recent study led by Syed Ayaz, a graduate research...

Migration is at the forefront of the climate crisis, as the globe faces unprecedented environmental challenges, including extreme weather events, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/">bio</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity loss</a>, and resource scarcity.



Humanity's response needs to be reimagined, with a growing recognition that international collaboration and coordinated efforts are crucial. 



As rising temperatures and sea levels threaten landscapes and displace communities worldwide, the movement of people from their homes has become an urgent reality that cannot be ignored. 



Climate-induced migration is not a distant concern; it is a pressing issue that is happening now, demanding immediate attention and comprehensive action to address its complexities and impacts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-to-rethink-climate-migration">Urgent need to rethink climate migration</h2>



An impactful study published recently by climate and social scientists from reputed institutions such as <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en/education-programmes/wageningen-university.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wageningen University</a>, <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, and <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a> puts forth a strong argument.



The experts emphasize the importance of facilitating movement among different geographical locations to ensure stability and prosperity in the face of the climate crisis.



Professor Marten Scheffer of Wageningen University stated: "Millions of people are projected to be displaced by sea-level rise in the next decades, and two billion could be exposed to extreme heat beyond their experience by the end of the century."



Ignoring or underestimating the shift in human populations could lead to global discord and a divided world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-borders-not-spirits">Breaking borders, not spirits</h2>



Countries have traditionally seen migration in terms of borders and national security only, but the researchers are urging a shift in perspective.



The study highlights the increasing instances of climate-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-migration-a-good-response-to-climate-change-the-answer-is-complicated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a> within countries, where individuals leave areas affected by long-term agricultural productivity decline or escape from extreme conditions such as coastal erosion. This internal migration plays out differently across nations.



Large countries with varied climate zones have a relative advantage, while smaller nations face significant challenges. 



The study also points out the inherent wealth disparity that hinders internal and inter-state migration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barriers-to-climate-migration">Barriers to climate migration</h2>



"While many animal species are already changing their geographical distribution in response to climate change, humanity now faces increasing barriers to this," noted Professor Tim Lenton.



"Global warming exacerbates existing inequalities, making habitability a major political challenge of this century."



The researchers maintain that the solution lies in global cooperation to address migration flows and demand for labor, benefiting both the Global South and the developed world.



The paper also proposes a major reform in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a>, suggesting that migration can increase production while conserving nature. They suggest a shift towards plant-based diets and reducing meat consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-migration-can-be-a-win-win">Climate migration can be a win-win</h2>



Far from seeing migration as a threat, the researchers argue that it can actually be a win-win for both people and the climate.



However, this requires global leaders to constructively communicate the economic benefits of migration and effective integration. 



"Every corner of the world needs to anticipate the coming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-crisis-global-supply-chains-face-25-trillion-in-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a> and promote the safe and beneficial movement of people as conditions change," said Professor Neil Adger.



Embracing this outlook on migration is not just about ensuring a better future for those on the move but for our planet as a whole. 



Integrating the movement of people into our strategies to combat climate change is not just necessary - it is urgent.



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



Technology plays a crucial role in managing climate-induced migration by offering innovative solutions to make migration safer and more efficient.



Data analytics and GIS can predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-migration-patterns-will-result-in-rapidly-aging-coastal-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration patterns</a> and identify at-risk areas, allowing for proactive resource allocation and reducing the humanitarian impact of displacement.



Additionally, technology enhances communication for migrants, providing information on safe routes, available services, and legal rights through mobile apps and platforms. Social media helps build networks and fosters a sense of community among migrants.



Investing in sustainable technologies, such as renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure, creates economic opportunities for displaced populations. 



By integrating technology into migration strategies, we can address immediate needs and build a more resilient future, turning migration into an opportunity for global collaboration and growth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/one-earth/abstract/S2590-3322(24)00312-9?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2590332224003129%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">One Earth</a>.



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Climate migration is an urgent reality that cannot be ignored

Migration is at the forefront of the climate crisis, as...

A recent study has shown that North Sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-near-oil-and-gas-sites-linked-to-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oil and gas</a> extraction can lead to a dramatic increase in pollution levels, with contaminants like hydrocarbons rising by more than 10,000% within half a kilometer of offshore platforms.&nbsp;



The collaborative research, conducted by the<a href="https://www.essex.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> University of Essex</a>, the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum</a>, and the Center for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (<a href="https://www.cefas.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEFAS</a>), found a significant decline in the number of species around offshore platforms, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> dropping nearly 30 percent. 



This new data provides a clearer picture of the environmental impact of fossil fuel extraction, particularly on Britain's seabed life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollution-near-offshore-platforms-nbsp">Pollution near offshore platforms&nbsp;</h2>



The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172536" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>, focused on pollutants such as hydrocarbons and heavy metals, including lead, copper, and nickel.&nbsp;



The findings revealed that hydrocarbon levels were up to 10,613% higher and heavy metal concentrations were 455% higher within 500 meters of the platforms compared to areas further away.&nbsp;



The study highlights how these pollutants accumulate around platforms, significantly affecting marine invertebrates, which are crucial for underwater ecosystems as they serve as prey for larger animals like fish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss-from-oil-and-gas-production-nbsp">Biodiversity loss from oil and gas production&nbsp;</h2>



Zelin Chen, a PhD student who led the research, explained the extensive impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-near-oil-and-gas-sites-linked-to-hidden-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon extraction</a> on biodiversity. 



“We’ve known for a while that hydrocarbon extraction can impact biodiversity, but this is the first-time consistent trends have been found across several platforms,” said Chen.&nbsp;



“There were clear changes in community diversity and composition, with a general decrease in the number and type of species near the platforms after oil and gas production began.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-webs-near-offshore-platforms">Food webs near offshore platforms </h2>



The study authors analyzed data for 4,216 species collected from 1981 to 2012 at nine oil and gas platforms off the coasts of Scotland and England.&nbsp;



The results showed a reduction in species richness and a simplification of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-restructures-marine-food-webs-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food webs</a> within 500 meters of the platforms.&nbsp;



These food webs, which describe the feeding interactions among species, became simpler and smaller in the impacted sediments.&nbsp;



Large predators like starfish were notably absent near the platforms, while smaller organisms like worms thrived in the contaminated environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-declines-in-species-richness-nbsp">Significant declines in species richness&nbsp;</h2>



The experts used chemical data to define an impact zone within 500m of a platform, a buffer zone within 500-1500m, as&nbsp; well as unimpacted areas beyond that. 



This approach allowed the team to compare biological samples from different zones taken before and after oil and gas production commenced.&nbsp;



The findings showed a significant 28% decline in species richness in the impacted sites and fewer connections within the food webs closer to the platforms.



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



The implications of these findings are concerning, especially as many of these platforms are approaching the end of their operational life.&nbsp;



“This is important because simpler food webs with shorter food chains are highly indicative of less productive areas under environmental stress,” said Eoin O’Gorman from the University of Essex, emphasizing the environmental significance of the study's findings.



Dr. Natalie Hicks, also from Essex, stressed the need for careful decommissioning of these platforms. She said they are leaving a potentially concerning legacy, particularly as many are reaching the end of life.&nbsp;



“Many of these sites will be decommissioned in the coming decade and we need to collaborate closely with industry and the Government to ensure decommissioning practice is led by science and done safely,” said Dr. Hicks.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-impacts-of-offshore-platforms-nbsp">Long-term impacts of offshore platforms&nbsp;</h2>



The study underscores the critical need for informed decommissioning practices to mitigate the potential long-term environmental impacts of these offshore platforms.&nbsp;



“Our collaborative study between the NHM, University of Essex, and CEFAS, which spans 30 years of field data, demonstrates that oil and gas operations simplify complex ocean ecosystems, favoring small, hardy species and causing the disappearance of more delicate marine life,” said Gareth Thomas, a scientist at the Natural History Museum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study-nbsp">Broader implications of the study&nbsp;</h2>



As the world continues to explore and extract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a>, this study provides essential insights into the environmental costs of such activities.&nbsp;



The researchers call for further investigation and more sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems, especially as the decommissioning of many North Sea platforms looms on the horizon.&nbsp;



The study's findings serve as a reminder of the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to ocean conservation, balancing resource extraction with the preservation of marine biodiversity.



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10,000% pollution increase from offshore oil and gas platforms decimates ocean life

A recent study has shown that North Sea oil and...

The digital age is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the internet and corresponding technological advancements are a blessing, creating a world more interconnected than ever. But on the other, they've paved the way for a pervasive issue - the misinformation and rumors that spreads like nuclear reactions.



In our modern climate of misinformation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-48-million-americans-deny-that-climate-change-is-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">falsehoods, and rumors</a>, distinguishing truth from fiction as data zips around the planet often seems like an uphill battle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-of-misinformation-and-rumors">Spread of misinformation and rumors</h2>



The research was carried out by Wenrong Zheng, a researcher from <a href="https://english.sdnu.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shandong Normal University</a>, and his dedicated team. 



They've been working tirelessly to understand this digital-age phenomenon. And the critical findings of their study were recently published by the American Institute of Physics.



Can we look at rumor propagation in a new light? Yes, indeed! 



Ditching the conventional epidemic models, Zheng's team found inspiration in a somewhat unexpected place: nuclear reactions. 



According to their modified model, rumors act like neutrons, the particles that initiate nuclear fission. When individuals encounter these 'rumor neutrons,' they send them spiraling into other people, sparking a chain reaction. 



“When individuals encounter rumors, they are influenced by their personal interests and decide whether to spread or whether repeated exposure is needed before spreading,” said Zheng. 



“Based on different considerations of uranium fission thresholds, individuals are divided into groups based on the influence of their own interest thresholds, fully considering individual behavior and differences, which is more in line with the reality.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-the-real-world">Implications for the real world</h2>



Did you guess that education plays a crucial role in rumor propagation? 



“The extent of rumor propagation is closely related to the proportion of rational internet users. This reflects the importance of education: the higher the level of education, the easier it is to question rumors when receiving information that is difficult to distinguish between right and wrong,” Zheng corroborates. 



If you're educated, chances are you'll scrutinize the information before accepting it blindly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-avoid-spreading-misinformation">How to avoid spreading misinformation</h2>



So, what can we do about the spread of misinformation? The team's research provides some vital pointers. 



The researchers found that rumors propagate on a smaller scale initially, so monitoring by official platforms is key.



When governmental and official media detect potential rumors, they should verify the content and offer corrections. This would enable rational citizens to prevent further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gossiping-may-actually-be-beneficial-to-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rumor propagation</a> effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-countering-disinformation">Countering disinformation</h2>



The research done by Zheng and his team is a major step in understanding and mitigating rumor propagation. 



Their nuanced, nuclear fission-inspired model offers fresh insights that could guide future strategies to combat disinformation. 



However, the battle against misinformation online is ongoing, and we, as responsible netizens, have a pivotal role to play.



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



In an era dominated by social media, the algorithms that dictate what content users see play a pivotal role in the dissemination of information. 



These complex systems curate feeds based on user preferences, often prioritizing engaging, sensational content over factual accuracy.



Algorithms are not inherently good or bad; it depends on how we choose to use them. This presents a unique opportunity -- by refining algorithms to promote accountability and accuracy, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomscrolling-threatens-our-mental-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social media platforms</a> could significantly reduce the reach of false information.



If users are consistently provided with a diverse range of reliable sources, they may be empowered to challenge misleading narratives and engage in healthy discourse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-citizens-to-avoid-misinformation">Empowering citizens to avoid misinformation</h2>



As research indicates, empowering individuals with media literacy skills is crucial in the fight against misinformation. 



Educational initiatives aimed at enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills can equip citizens to evaluate information critically.



Workshops, online courses, or community programs can introduce individuals to techniques for fact-checking, recognizing bias, and analyzing sources. 



By fostering these competencies, society cultivates a more informed populace that can navigate the complex landscape of information.



An educated public is less susceptible to the allure of rumors, ultimately cultivating a culture of inquiry and discernment that significantly dampens the spread of disinformation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nuclear-reaction-and-spreading-misinformation">Nuclear reaction and spreading misinformation</h2>



In sum, misinformation, like a neutron starting a nuclear reaction, spreads rapidly in today's digital age. But all's not lost. 



Scientific research like Zheng's is helping us understand the spread dynamics better and providing cues for possible mitigation. 



Remember, staying educated, questioning the information we receive, and relying on only <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/political-views-change-our-perception-of-the-past-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">credible sources</a> can go a long way in combating this online avalanche of disinformation. After all, don't we all want a truthful, reliable digital world for ourselves?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/adv/article/14/7/075326/3304858/A-rumor-propagation-model-based-on-nuclear-fission" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AIP Advances</a>.



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Digital misinformation and rumors spread like nuclear reactions

The digital age is a double-edged sword. On the one...

It can be hard to wrap your head around quantum science and the 'out-there' concepts it embodies, like "trapped atoms" mentioned in this article title. But, in essence, it's all about exploring the untapped potentials of our universe... and turning them into reality.



With the power to enhance computer processing to levels currently unimaginable, scientists trapped cesium atoms on an integrated photonic circuit, creating a sophisticated system akin to a transistor but for light.



This breakthrough could potentially birth a quantum network based on cold-atom integrated nanophotonic circuits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-transistors-and-trapped-atoms">Quantum transistors and trapped atoms</h2>



The brains behind this work is none other than Associate Professor Chen-Lung Hung of <a href="https://www.purdue.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University</a> College of Science, who also serves at the Purdue Quantum Science and Engineering Institute. With an exceptional team by his side, they've shared their fascinating findings in Physical Review X.



“We developed a technique to use lasers to cool and tightly trap atoms on an integrated nanophotonic circuit,” explains Hung.



Think about light traveling through an incredibly thin photonic 'wire' or waveguide - so thin, it's about 200 times thinner than a strand of human hair.



The atoms are cooled down to temperatures just above absolute zero, making them almost stationary.



These chilled atoms can then be locked onto the waveguide using a 'tractor beam,' positioned merely 300 nanometers away (roughly the size of a virus).



"Using state-of-the-art nanofabrication instruments in the Birck Nanotechnology Center, we pattern the photonic waveguide in a circular shape at a diameter of around 30 microns (three times smaller than a human hair) to form a so-called microring resonator. Light would circulate within the microring resonator and interact with the trapped atoms," Hung enthused.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atomic-transistor-is-a-game-changer">Atomic-transistor is a game changer</h2>



What sets their innovation apart is the ingenious use of confined atoms to manipulate the flow of light through the circuit. This process functions similarly to how a transistor controls electrical currents in traditional electronics.



When the atoms are in the right quantum state, they allow photons to pass through seamlessly, enabling efficient light transmission.



Conversely, when the atoms are in the wrong state, the photons are blocked, effectively halting the flow of light.



This precise control over light flow opens up exciting possibilities for advancements in optical computing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secure-quantum-communication-one-step-closer-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication technologies</a>, potentially leading to faster and more efficient data processing systems.



Xinchao Zhou, a Purdue Physics and Astronomy graduate student and recipient of this year's Bilsand Dissertation Fellowship, explains this first-of-its-kind phenomenon.



“We have trapped up to 70 atoms that could collectively couple to photons and gate their transmission on an integrated photonic chip. This has not been realized before,” says Zhou.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-trapped-atoms">Potential of trapped atoms</h2>



The implications of this technology are poised to transform the landscape of science. Could this platform become a crucial link in the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computing</a> based on neutral atoms?



It has the potential to advance our understanding of collective light-matter interactions and facilitate the synthesis of quantum degenerate gases or ultracold molecules.



The atom-coupled integrated photonic circuit, unlike conventional electronic transistors, operates on quantum superposition principles.



Chen-Lung Hung expounds, "This allows us to manipulate and store quantum information in trapped atoms, which are quantum bits known as qubits."



The circuit can then transfer this stored <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecules-scramble-quantum-information-equally-well-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum information</a> into photons, establishing a network with other similar circuits through the photonic wire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-new-quantum-states">Exploring new quantum states</h2>



What lies ahead is equally, if not more, thrilling than our current endeavors. The team is poised to meticulously arrange the trapped atoms in an orderly array along the photonic waveguide, thereby enhancing their collective coupling to this innovative structure.



Additionally, they are contemplating the prospect of cooling the atoms further, approaching absolute zero, to engender a strongly interacting Bose-Einstein condensate gas.



This is just the beginning. Exploring new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a> on an integrated photonic circuit, studying few- and many-body physics through atom-photon interactions, or even creating cold molecules from the trapped atoms; the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-quantum-computers-just-got-easier-with-new-technique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">possibilities are boundless</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-quantum-networks-and-trapped-atoms">Future of quantum networks and trapped atoms</h2>



We're on the cusp of a quantum revolution that promises to redefine our understanding of technology and information, literally <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transforming our world</a>.



Purdue University is at the forefront of this work, led by the brilliant Chen-Lung Hung and his dedicated team of researchers.



Their innovative efforts offer a fascinating glimpse into a future where quantum networks and advanced quantum computing could be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our everyday reality, changing how we process information and how we connect and communicate.



For those who are just beginning to explore the vast ocean of quantum computing, this research highlights how these qualities can spark paradigm-shifting discoveries that push the boundaries of what's possible.



As we delve deeper into this exciting field, the implications for industries ranging from cybersecurity to drug discovery are immense and potentially life-changing.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.14.031004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review X</a>.



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Trapped atoms are forced to serve as transistors for a quantum network

It can be hard to wrap your head around quantum...

In the world of astronomy, the 17th century was marked by significant and groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in the realm of solar activity. 



One intriguing contribution was Johannes Kepler’s sketches of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-archipelago-15-times-wider-than-earth-spotted-by-nasa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspots</a> in 1607, a record that laid the foundation for a fresh understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strongest-solar-flare-in-7-years-prompts-gps-satellite-warnings-and-aurora-alert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar phenomena</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-in-sunspot-sketches">Observations in sunspot sketches</h2>



Johannes Kepler, celebrated for his monumental contributions to astronomy and mathematics, is known to have made one of the earliest instrumental records of solar activity during the early 17th century. 



He ingeniously employed a "camera obscura," an apparatus that projected the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/see-the-sun-in-exquisite-detail-in-rare-solar-orbiter-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun's image</a> onto paper, to sketch visible features on the Sun's surface.



In May of 1607, Kepler documented what he initially misinterpreted as a transit of Mercury across the Sun, later identified as a collection of sunspots. These are darker areas on the sun's surface that develop due to intense magnetic activity within the sun's interior.



Sunspots play a key role in solar radiation and space weather. Their occurrence, frequency, and latitudinal distributions appear in cycles, paving the gateway to fresh revelations about solar activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revisiting-kepler-s-observations">Revisiting Kepler’s observations</h2>



Led by a collaborative group from <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> in Japan, an international team of researchers revisited Kepler’s eclipsed sunspot sketches with the help of modern techniques.



Using Spörer's law, they reconstructed the position of Kepler’s sunspot group, situating it at the end of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-next-solar-cycle-26-has-already-begun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar cycle</a> prior to the one observed by notable early telescopic pioneers like Thomas Harriot and Galileo Galilei.



These observations are extremely significant as they shed light on the solar cycles at the start of the 17th century. The cycles during this time mark the transition from regular solar cycles to the grand solar minimum known as the Maunder Minimum (1645–1715).



The grand solar minimum, characterized by an unusually prolonged period of low sunspot activity, holds great importance for researchers to understand solar activity and its effect on the Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunspot-sketches-reveal-new-insights">Sunspot sketches reveal new insights</h2>



By examining Kepler’s records and matching them with contemporary data, alongside modern statistics, the researchers made four pivotal discoveries.



After methodically reinterpreting the sunspot sketches, they located Kepler’s sunspot group at a low heliographic latitude. This pointed to an inconsistency between Kepler’s original text and the two camera obscura images, which display the sunspot towards the upper left of the solar disk.



Using Spörer's law and modern sunspot statistics, the researchers determined that the sunspot group was positioned at the end of solar cycle -13 instead of the beginning of solar cycle -14.



This finding contradicted with later telescopic observations that showed sunspots at higher latitudes, indicating a typical progression from the preceding solar cycle to the following one in accordance with Spörer’s law.



The researchers also succeeded in estimating the transition between the previous solar cycle (-14) and the next solar cycle (-13) between 1607 and 1610. Kepler’s records proposed a regular duration for solar cycle-13, contesting alternate reconstructions that proposed an extremely long cycle during this period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-kepler">The legacy of Kepler</h2>



Kepler’s contribution extends beyond observational expertise. His findings provide valuable context that helps to clarify changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-fury-secrets-of-solar-energy-storms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar behavior</a> during a critical period when solar cycles transitioned to the grand solar minimum.



Kepler's records, which predate the existing telescopic sunspot records from 1610 by several years, stand as a testament to his scientific prowess. They continue to serve the scientific community today, extending the reach of his legacy into the present.



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



As we continue to advance in solar research, the lessons learned from Kepler’s pioneering work are more relevant than ever. 



Modern technology, including satellite observations and advanced computational models, allow us to analyze solar activity with unprecedented precision.



However, historical data like Kepler’s sunspot sketches provides a critical context for understanding long-term solar cycles and their impact on Earth’s climate.



Kepler’s observations not only enrich our understanding of the sun’s past behavior but also illuminate pathways for future inquiry.



By honoring his legacy and applying modern techniques to historical data, we can unlock new insights into the intricate relationship between solar activity and life on Earth, ensuring that the mysteries of our star continue to inspire and inform generations to come.



Image Credit: NASA’s Solar Dynamic Observatory



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Sunspot sketches from 1607 unlock secrets of solar activity

In the world of astronomy, the 17th century was marked...

Data collection is set to transform dramatically with the "Ocean of Things," a future network where trillions of interconnected devices will transmit vast amounts of data globally. This advanced system promises to revolutionize how we&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autonomous-vehicles-will-help-monitor-ocean-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monitor our world</a>.



We are entering a new era. Everything, from the largest structures to the smallest gadgets, will become a source of data. These data sources will provide real-time insights across various domains.



However, with 71% of Earth's surface covered by water, gathering accurate and comprehensive information from these vast and often inaccessible oceans presents unique challenges that must be overcome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-ocean-data-collection">Innovations in ocean data collection</h2>



Responding to these challenges, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (<a href="https://www.darpa.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DARPA</a>) developed an ambitious program called the "Ocean of Things." 



The initiative aims to create a vast network of data-collecting devices across the world's oceans to better understand and monitor these critical environments.



Enter the research teams from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/watson/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University's Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science</a>, who have taken on this challenge with enthusiasm and expertise.



Over the last decade, they have been hard at work, pushing the boundaries of technology and creating groundbreaking innovations under the banner of the Center for Research in Advanced Sensing Technologies and Environmental Sustainability (CREATES).



A significant part of their pioneering research has been funded by the Office of Naval Research, with a focus on developing bacteria-powered biobatteries capable of operating in the ocean for up to 100 years, providing a sustainable and long-lasting energy source for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microrobots-tested-as-clean-up-crew-for-polluted-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biohybrid-jellyfish-robotics-ocean-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quatic robots</a>&nbsp;and sensors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-the-bug-for-ocean-data">Introducing the "bug" for ocean data</h2>



Leading the way are Professor Seokheun “Sean” Choi, PhD student Yang “Lexi” Gao, and Anwar Elhadad, PhD, who have developed a self-powered aquatic "bug." 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microrobots-tested-as-clean-up-crew-for-polluted-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic robot</a> is a marvel of mechanical engineering, capable of skimming across the water and gathering critical environmental data. This robot’s technology builds upon the bacteria-powered biobatteries. 



Using a Janus interface that allows nutrients into the device and powers bacterial spore production, these skimmers can function in adverse conditions where solar, kinetic, or thermal energy systems might fail.&nbsp;



“When the environment is favorable for the bacteria, they become vegetative cells and generate power, but when the conditions are not favorable, they go back to spores. In that way, we can extend the operational life,” explained Professor Choi.



This innovation has allowed the Binghamton team to develop robots that generate close to 1 milliwatt of power, sufficient to operate mechanical movements and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/polar-bear-conservation-leaps-forward-with-new-tracking-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data-tracking</a>&nbsp;sensors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-upgrade-in-oceanic-surveillance">An upgrade in oceanic surveillance</h2>



The capacity to dispatch these robots wherever they're needed offers a significant improvement over the current "smart floats," which are stationary sensors anchored in one spot. 



The bugs can track a wide variety of environmental data, such as water temperature, pollution levels, commercial vessel and aircraft movements, and even the behaviors of aquatic animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimizing-ocean-data-collection">Optimizing ocean data collection</h2>



The next phase for these aquatic robots involves ascertaining which bacteria are most efficient for energy production in the harsh ocean conditions.&nbsp;



“We used very common bacterial cells, but we need to study further to know what is actually living in those areas of the ocean. Maybe using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-can-more-accurately-predict-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a>, we can find the optimal combination of bacterial species to improve power density and sustainability,” said Professor Choi.



This research holds the potential to revolutionize not just the field of aquatic robotics, but our interactions with the "Ocean of Things" as well.



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



Self-powered aquatic robots like the "bug" mark important progress in monitoring and protecting the environment.



As these efficient data-gathering devices autonomously traverse vast and often inaccessible marine areas, they can provide real-time insights into the health of our oceans.&nbsp;



This capability is crucial for tracking the impact of climate change and assessing the efficacy of conservation efforts. Additionally, it enhances our understanding of marine ecosystem dynamics.



Such detailed data collection may inform policies aimed at preserving biodiversity while improving our ability to swiftly respond to environmental crises. 



Integrating machine learning to optimize bacterial efficiency demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to sustainable energy. It shows how cutting-edge technology can be used for ecological benefit, paving the way for a future where technology and environmental stewardship can co-exist in harmony.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202400426" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Materials Technologies</a>.



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'Ocean of Things' robotic technology will transform ocean data collection

Data collection is set to transform dramatically with the "Ocean...

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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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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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How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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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Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&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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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&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> Staff Writer 



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&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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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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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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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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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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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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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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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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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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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&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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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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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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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&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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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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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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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&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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Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes why satellite images and measurements of our planet have become "essential to our survival, offering a new outlook of our world."&nbsp;



Rising sea levels pose one of the biggest societal threats associated with climate change. According to ESA, satellite altimeter missions such as Copernicus Sentinel-6 are essential in monitoring global and regional changes in sea level.



"Unbeknown to many, the island of Crete, Greece, plays an important role in the Copernicus satellite altimetry constellation and on an international stage," reports ESA.



"Satellite altimetry data have to be continuously monitored at the ESA’s Permanent Facility for Altimetry Calibration where different techniques have pioneered the use of transponders to provide the best measurements to validate satellite altimeters in space soon after launch."



Dr. Craig Donlon explains that, by understanding planet Earth through satellite measurements, we are able to find evidence of change.&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency&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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...