The Universe contains many types of massive formations that shape our understanding of how stars and galaxies group together. Astronomers have long studied these sprawling patterns, which give valuable clues about where matter gathers and where it remains thinly spread. 



These features define how cosmic evolution unfolds and guide current theories of how the universe expands.



Recently, a team of experts announced a giant find. This collection of galaxy clusters surpasses previous giants by orders of magnitude.



This study adds fresh insights by demonstrating that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interstellar-tunnel-found-that-connects-our-solar-system-to-other-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic neighborhood</a> can still surprise us with unexpected details about how matter arranges itself across unimaginable distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-clusters-distribution">Galaxy clusters distribution</h2>



Hans Böhringer from the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (<a href="https://www.mpe.mpg.de/main" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPE</a>) coordinated the effort in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Physics (<a href="https://www.mpp.mpg.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MPP</a>) and teams in Spain and South Africa. 



Their work relied on the ROSAT X-ray satellite’s survey, which singled out clusters of galaxies by detecting the energetic radiation these huge clusters emit. 



These data allowed the researchers to build a three-dimensional map of our cosmic vicinity.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_3D-model_credit-MPE_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_3D-model_credit-MPE_1s.webp" alt="Three-dimensional representation of the Quipu superstructure. Credit: MPE" class="wp-image-1960534"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Three-dimensional representation of the Quipu superstructure. Credit: MPE</figcaption></figure>



“If you look at the distribution of the galaxy clusters in the sky in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light-years, you immediately notice a huge structure that stretches from high northern latitudes to almost the southern end of the sky,” explains Böhringer.



By tracing each cluster’s position in space, his team pinpointed how matter spreads out in swirling patterns of galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-quipu-superstructure">The Quipu superstructure</h2>



The researchers named this discovery “Quipu,” taking inspiration from the knotted string recording system once used by the Incas. 



Observed as a long strand with smaller threads branching off, the Quipu superstructure contains 68 galaxy clusters with a combined mass of about 2.4 × 10^17 solar masses. 



Its size of roughly 1.4 billion light-years makes Quipu the largest superstructure ever accurately measured, surpassing the Sloan Great Wall’s 1.1 billion light-years.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_illustration_credit-MPE_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/quipo_superstructure_illustration_credit-MPE_1s.webp" alt="Distribution of galaxies (color coding) and galaxy clusters (black dots) in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light years surrounding us. The five superstructures are marked: 1 Quipu, 2 Shapley, 3 Serpens-Corona Borealis and Hercules (overlapping in the sky), 4 Sculptor-Pegasus. The area enclosed by white lines is shadowed by the disk of the Milky Way. Credit: MPE" class="wp-image-1960536"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Distribution of galaxies (color coding) and galaxy clusters (black dots) in a spherical shell with a distance of 416 to 826 million light years surrounding us. The five superstructures are marked: 1 Quipu, 2 Shapley, 3 Serpens-Corona Borealis and Hercules (overlapping in the sky), 4 Sculptor-Pegasus. The area enclosed by white lines is shadowed by the disk of the Milky Way. Credit: MPE</figcaption></figure>



“This breaks the size record of all reliably measured cosmic structures,” note the researchers who compared the finding with other known formations. 



“The Quipu superstructure, end to end, is slightly longer than the <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/figure/SDSS-3D-Universe-Map-Credit-Sloan-Digital-Sky-Survey-Team-NASA-NSF-DOE_fig2_357328983" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sloan Great Wall</a>,” says J. Richard Gott III at Princeton University, who helped discover the Sloan Great Wall. “Congratulations to them for finding it.” 



The name also reflects a connection to Chile, where many distance measurements took place, and where ancient quipus are showcased in Santiago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quipu-and-cosmological-principle">Quipu and cosmological principle</h2>



Across extremely large distances, matter is believed to spread out nearly evenly. At smaller scales of about a billion light-years, it collects in superclusters and leaves behind voids. 



This balance underpins the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-order-or-chaos-universe-expansion-may-follow-a-hidden-pattern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmological principle</a>, which suggests that if we look far enough, the universe should appear uniform in every direction. 



Some experts argue these huge arrangements question that principle’s validity, with past findings triggering debates. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/great-sloan-wall_superstructure_SDSS_credit-MIT_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/great-sloan-wall_superstructure_SDSS_credit-MIT_1s.webp" alt="Sloan Great Wall of galaxies. SDSS 3D Universe Map Credit: Sloan Digital Sky Survey Team, NASA, NSF, DOE." class="wp-image-1960531"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sloan Great Wall of galaxies is 1.1 billion light years long. SDSS 3D Universe Map Credit: Sloan Digital Sky Survey Team, NASA, NSF, DOE.</figcaption></figure>



“Making observations in too small a part of the universe, which has been done earlier on, can be misleading,” says Böhringer. 



Another point comes from an ambiguous definition of the principle. “There is not yet one definition of the cosmological principle that every cosmologist agrees on,” says Alexia Lopez at the <a href="https://www.uclan.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Central Lancashire</a> in the UK. 



Meanwhile, Seshadri Nadathur at the <a href="https://www.port.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Portsmouth</a> notes that “some of those galaxies may drift apart from each other instead of collapsing in on themselves, in which case, according to some interpretations, it’s not really a bound structure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-measurements-and-consequences">Cosmic measurements and consequences</h2>



Quipu’s existence highlights how vast formations can shape calculations of cosmic expansion rates and the properties of primordial radiation left over from the early universe. 



Astronomers pay close attention to features like superclusters because they alter light paths and influence how we determine important parameters such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unknown-factors-are-accelerating-the-expansion-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble constant</a>. 



Small discrepancies can add up when researchers aim for precise numbers in modern cosmological studies.



“Even if these are only corrections of a few percent, they become increasingly important as the accuracy of cosmological observations increases,” emphasizes Gayoung Chon from the Max Planck Institute for Physics. 



This structure offers a reminder that the cosmos presents patterns on many scales. Those patterns appear to affect how we interpret data on the universe’s origin and shape the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> in our vicinity and beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quipu-and-the-incas">Quipu and the Incas</h2>



The Incas once managed vast territories using quipus, a system of knotted strings that helped track resources and information. 



Each knot arrangement acted like a code, revealing essential data in a form that required no written script.



Quipu’s naming borrowed that image of intertwined threads. 



Researchers see it as a nod to humanity’s long history of gathering knowledge, whether through knotted strings or advanced telescopes that trace the distribution of galaxies across cosmic depths.



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



The discovery underscores how ongoing surveys might uncover more structures. 



Scientists are keen to see if similar patterns exist in parts of the sky that remain less charted, which could either confirm current theories or reveal new gaps in our understanding.



Future maps will rely on technology to gather clearer data from remote regions. 



These efforts reflect a human wish to capture our place in the universe, searching for the patterns that connect everything from particles to vast congregations of galaxies.



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Featured image: The open cluster Westerlund 1 is located roughly 12,000 light-years away in the southern constellation Ara (the Altar) where it resides behind a huge interstellar cloud of gas and dust. Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.19236" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a>.



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Largest structure ever found in the universe is 1.4 billion light years long

The Universe contains many types of massive formations that shape our understanding of how stars and galaxies group together. Astronomers have long studied these sprawling patterns, which give valuable clues about where matter gathers and where it remains thinly spread. These features define how cosmic evolution unfolds and guide current theories of how the universe expands. Recently, a team of experts announced a giant find. This collection of galaxy clusters surpasses previous giants by orders of magnitude. This study adds fresh insights by demonstrating that our cosmic...

In the field of cancer research, unexpected heroes sometimes emerge from the most surprising sources. Who would have thought that a virus related to the humble black-eyed pea plant could hold the key to a potential breakthrough in cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chaotic-protein-that-fuels-75-of-cancers-can-be-controlled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment</a>? 



Yet, that's exactly what a remarkable study from the University of California San Diego (<a href="https://ucsd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC San Diego</a>) suggests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-metastatic-cancer-with-a-plant-virus">Treating metastatic cancer with a plant virus</h2>



Metastatic cancer, also known as stage 4 cancer, is when cancer cells spread from the primary tumor to other parts of the body. This process is called metastasis. Metastatic cancer can affect various organs, including the liver, lungs, bones, and brain.



The spread happens when cancer cells break away from the original tumor, travel through the bloodstream or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-turns-lymph-nodes-into-fat-impairing-immunity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lymphatic system</a>, and form new tumors in other organs or tissues. These new tumors are made of the same type of cancer cells as the primary tumor. 



For example, if breast cancer spreads to the lungs, the cancer cells in the lungs are still <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flaxseeds-influence-on-the-gut-could-reduce-breast-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breast cancer</a> cells, not lung cancer cells.



Metastatic cancer is more challenging to treat than cancer that remains in one location. Treatment usually aims to slow the growth of the cancer, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life. 



Common treatments include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes surgery. Each case is unique, and treatment plans are tailored to the individual's specific situation.



Despite the advanced stage of metastatic cancer, ongoing research and new treatments are continually improving outcomes and offering hope for patients. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-cancer-rates-in-young-adults-linked-to-accelerated-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early detection</a> and advancements in medical science play crucial roles in managing this complex condition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-virus-in-cancer-treatment">Plant virus in cancer treatment</h2>



Researchers at UC San Diego have harnessed the power of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-plant-virus-could-help-cure-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cowpea</a> mosaic virus, a virus that typically infects black-eyed pea plants, to develop an experimental cancer treatment. 



When transformed into nanoparticles, the virus has shown remarkable promise in protecting against a broad range of metastatic cancers in mice.



The ability of this plant virus-based treatment to combat metastasis across various cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unique-fingerprint-of-cancer-cells-revealed-in-hydrogen-atoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">types</a>, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colon-cancer-colorectal-screening-accurate-new-blood-test/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colon</a>, ovarian, melanoma, and breast cancer, is a significant step forward.



"We are providing a systemic treatment to wake up the body's immune system to eliminate the disease before metastases even form and settle," said Nicole Steinmetz, a professor of nanoengineering at UC San Diego and a leading researcher in this study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-it-work">How does it work?</h2>



The beauty of this treatment lies in its simplicity and natural origins. Scientists grow black-eyed pea plants in the lab and infect them with the cowpea mosaic virus. 



The plants then produce millions of copies of the virus, which are harvested as ball-shaped nanoparticles. These nanoparticles, with no further modification, are ready for use in experiments.



These nanoparticles don't directly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attack cancer cells</a>. Instead, they act as an immune system alarm. Even though the virus is harmless to mammals, the body's immune cells recognize it as a foreign invader. 



This triggers a robust immune response, not only against any existing tumors but also against future ones, effectively preventing cancer from spreading and recurring.



The immune response is crucial because it harnesses the body's natural defense mechanisms to fight cancer. By stimulating the immune system, the treatment helps the body identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively. 



This approach targets both the primary tumor and any potential metastases, offering a comprehensive strategy to combat cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-virus-cancer-treatment-shows-promise-in-mice">Plant virus cancer treatment shows promise in mice</h2>



The effectiveness of this plant virus treatment has been demonstrated in mouse models. 



Mice injected with the cowpea mosaic virus nanoparticles and then exposed to metastatic tumors showed significantly improved survival rates and reduced tumor growth compared to untreated mice.



"Here, we do not treat established tumors or metastatic disease -- we prevent them from forming," said Steinmetz. This preventive approach is a game-changer. It means potentially stopping cancer in its tracks before it becomes a life-threatening problem. 



Even more exciting is the treatment's effectiveness after surgery. In mice that had tumors surgically removed, the nanoparticles helped boost the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune system</a>, preventing any remaining cancer cells from spreading and causing a recurrence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-plant-based-virus-cancer-therapy">Future of plant-based virus cancer therapy</h2>



The researchers are enthusiastic about the potential of this plant virus treatment. They are now gearing up for clinical trials, with the goal of eventually testing this therapy in humans. While there's still a long road ahead, the initial results are highly promising.



"Even if you perform surgery to remove the tumors, no surgery is perfect and there is outgrowth of metastasis if no additional treatment is provided," explained Steinmetz. "Here, we use our plant virus nanoparticles after surgery to boost the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-cancers-defense-against-itself-using-novel-car-t-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune system</a> to reject any residual disease and prevent circulating tumor cells from metastatic seeding. We found that it works really, really well!"



This research also opens the door to exploring other plant-based therapies for cancer. It highlights the vast potential of nature to provide solutions for some of our most pressing medical challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-hope-for-patients">New hope for patients</h2>



The possibility of a plant virus-based cancer treatment is an exciting development for cancer patients and their families. While more research is needed, the early results suggest that this innovative approach could offer a safer and more effective way to prevent and treat metastatic cancer.



The cowpea mosaic virus, once just a threat to black-eyed pea plants, may soon become a powerful ally in the fight against cancer.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202308237" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Science</a>.



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Plant virus that attacks black-eyed peas also kills cancer tumors

In the field of cancer research, unexpected heroes sometimes emerge...

A recent discovery in the heart of Patagonia is sending ripples through the paleontological community. The newly unearthed Koleken inakayali fossil, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/dinosaur_Koleken-inakayali_very-short-arms_credit-Gabriel-Diaz-Yanten_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carnivorous dinosaur species</a> with astonishingly short arms, is challenging our understanding of prehistoric life in South America and raising questions about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of abelisaurid theropods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-discovery-and-its-short-arms">Dinosaur discovery and its short arms</h2>



Koleken inakayali's skeletal remains were discovered in the La Colonia Formation of central Patagonia. A team of paleontologists led by <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Geographic</a> Explorer Diego Pol meticulously studied these fossils. 



This find marks only the second known abelisaurid from this formation. It sheds light on the diverse array of dinosaurs that roamed the region during the Late Cretaceous Epoch. 



Koleken inakayali had notably shorter arms than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-change-their-minds-about-tyrannosaurus-rex-dinosaur-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T. Rex</a>, offering new insights into abelisaurid anatomy and evolution. This discovery enriches our understanding of dinosaur diversity and adaptation before the mass extinction event.



"This finding significantly expands our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-less-intelligent-than-modern-day-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">knowledge</a> of abelisaurid theropods in Patagonia just prior to the mass extinction event," explains Pol, emphasizing the importance of Koleken inakayali in understanding the evolutionary trajectory of these unique dinosaurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-koleken-inakayali-dinosaur-with-short-arms">Koleken inakayali: Dinosaur with short arms</h2>



While Koleken inakayali shares some similarities with its more famous relative, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-skin-is-more-diverse-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carnotaurus sastrei</a>, also from the La Colonia Formation, it boasts distinct characteristics that set it apart. 



Notably smaller in size, Koleken inakayali exhibits unique skull features and anatomical variations, distinguishing it from other abelisaurids.



The research team meticulously analyzed the partial skeleton, which includes skull fragments, vertebrae, a complete hip, tail bones, and nearly complete legs. 



This comprehensive examination allowed them to reconstruct Koleken inakayali's appearance and gain insights into its evolutionary relationships. 



Overall, Koleken inakayali's discovery contributes significantly to our understanding of the diversity and adaptation of abelisaurids during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-dinosaur-fossils-discovered-from-the-end-of-cretaceous-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Late Cretaceous Epoch</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enigmatic-short-arms-of-dinosaurs">Enigmatic short arms of dinosaurs</h2>



One of the most intriguing aspects of Koleken inakayali, and abelisaurids in general, is their remarkably short arms. While the exact function of these diminutive limbs remains a subject of ongoing debate, various hypotheses have been proposed. 



Some researchers suggest that they played a role in close-quarter combat with prey, while others believe they evolved to avoid interference with the dinosaurs' powerful jaws during feeding.



Koleken inakayali's short arms contribute valuable data to this ongoing discussion, providing paleontologists with crucial evidence to unravel the mystery behind this unique anatomical feature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-koleken-inakayali-found-at-the-la-colonia-formation">Koleken inakayali found at the La Colonia Formation</h2>



The La Colonia Formation, renowned for its rich fossil record, continues to yield valuable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-oviraptor-dinosaur-species-weighed-as-much-as-a-human-female/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insights</a> into the Late Cretaceous period. 



The discovery of Koleken inakayali further solidifies the formation's status as a treasure trove of paleontological information, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem that thrived in Patagonia millions of years ago.



"The addition of Koleken inakayali to the La Colonia Formation fauna underscores its importance as one of the most significant end-Cretaceous dinosaur-bearing rock units globally," explained Ian Miller, Chief Science and Innovation Officer at the National Geographic Society.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-dinosaurs-like-koleken-inakayali-use-their-arms">How did dinosaurs like Koleken inakayali use their arms?</h2>



Dinosaurs used their arms for a variety of functions. These functions varied widely among different species and were influenced by their diet, size, and ecological roles. The functions may have included the following:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hunting and feeding</h3>



Carnivorous dinosaurs like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-new-dinosaur-species-related-to-velociraptors-has-been-found/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Velociraptor</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-carcasses-a-key-food-source-for-jurassic-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allosaurus</a> had strong, clawed arms used for grasping and holding onto prey. 



These dinosaurs relied on their arms to subdue and manipulate their catches. Some theropods had large claws that they used to slash at prey, delivering fatal wounds.



Herbivorous dinosaurs used their arms to pull down branches and gather foliage. Their hands could help strip leaves from branches. 



Moreover, long-necked sauropods might have used their arms to help steady themselves while reaching for high vegetation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defense</h3>



Some dinosaurs, such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/therizinosaur-with-scissor-like-claws-discovered-in-the-uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Therizinosaurs</a>, had large claws that they could use to defend themselves against predators. 



These claws could deliver powerful slashes. Certain dinosaurs had bony protrusions or spikes on their arms that added a layer of defense.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Locomotion</h3>



Large quadrupedal dinosaurs like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-how-super-giant-sauropods-grew-to-be-so-massive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brachiosaurus</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stegosaurus-fossil-oldest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stegosaurus</a> used their front limbs to support their massive bodies and for walking. 



Their arms were crucial for maintaining balance and stability. Some smaller dinosaurs used their arms to help balance while running, allowing for quick turns and agility.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Social and mating displays</h3>



Dinosaurs like Oviraptors had <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feathered-dinosaurs-had-scaly-skin-like-modern-day-lizards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a> on their arms, which they could display during mating rituals to attract mates or to communicate with others in their group. 



Some species had brightly colored or uniquely shaped arms that they could use in visual displays to establish dominance or attract partners.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Climbing</h3>



Smaller dinosaurs, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lizard-preserved-stomach-microraptor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microraptor</a>, had arms adapted for climbing trees. These arms might have had claws that helped them grip bark and branches. 



Also, dinosaurs living in forested environments used their arms to navigate through trees, escaping predators and finding food.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-koleken-inakayali-a-testament-to-scientific-exploration">Koleken inakayali: A testament to scientific exploration</h2>



The unveiling of Koleken inakayali not only expands our understanding of abelisaurid dinosaurs but also highlights the importance of continued scientific exploration and the preservation of our planet's natural heritage. 



By studying the fossilized remains of creatures like Koleken inakayali, we unlock the secrets of Earth's distant past and inspire future generations to delve deeper into the wonders of the natural world.



As paleontologists continue to investigate the La Colonia Formation and other fossil-rich regions, we can anticipate further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megaraptor-species-named-fujianipus-yingliangi-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discoveries</a> that will reshape our understanding of the dinosaurs that once ruled our planet. 



The story of Koleken inakayali is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the enduring fascination with the mysteries of our planet's prehistoric past.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/cla.12583" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cladistics</a>.



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Newly-discovered dinosaur had arms even smaller than T. Rex's

A recent discovery in the heart of Patagonia is sending...

A recent survey has unveiled a startling statistic: nearly half (48%) fear they will witness climate change <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-want-to-fight-climate-change-more-than-you-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wreak havoc</a> on Earth within their lifetime. 



The survey, conducted by <a href="https://talkerresearch.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Talker Research</a>, found Hawaiians to be the most anxious, with 61% expressing this belief. Vermont and New Mexico residents followed closely behind, with 59% and 56% respectively.



However, this widespread fear might be misplaced. "Belief in the urgent fight against climate change has shot far past the territory of science and become an ideology," notes <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge</a> professor Mike Hulme.



He terms this "climatism," arguing that it skews our approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global issues</a>, potentially overshadowing other pressing concerns like poverty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-debate">Climate change debate</h2>



The climate change debate is complex, with opinions ranging from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-48-million-americans-deny-that-climate-change-is-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outright denial</a> to apocalyptic predictions. While the survey results highlight a significant portion of Americans fearing the worst, other perspectives challenge this narrative.



Data scientist Hannah Ritchie of the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> offers a contrasting perspective. Once convinced of an impending climate disaster, she now believes that such extreme predictions can overshadow significant achievements. 



In her book, Ritchie highlights that emissions per person have plateaued since 2012, suggesting some stabilization. She also argues that the dreaded 2.7°F (1.5°C) <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5-degrees-celsius-would-save-billions-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming threshold</a> is not necessarily a catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping point</a>.



Ritchie’s views suggest that while climate change remains a serious issue, it’s essential to recognize progress and avoid undue pessimism. She calls for a balanced approach that acknowledges both the ongoing challenges and the advancements made. 



This perspective encourages a more nuanced understanding of climate change, promoting informed and effective action rather than fear-driven responses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-action-vs-climate-change-fear">Positive action vs climate change fear</h2>



The survey indicates that 37% of respondents engage in environmental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-want-to-fight-climate-change-more-than-you-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">actions</a> primarily for personal satisfaction. However, a larger portion, 50%, believes that both intent and results are equally important. This suggests a growing shift toward a more conscientious approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-most-people-view-climate-change-as-a-very-important-issue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmentalism</a>.



Additionally, 32% of respondents stated that their eco-friendly actions help them sleep better at night. This connection between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservatives-liberals-unite-climate-action-despite-different-beliefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental responsibility</a> and personal well-being suggests that taking care of the planet can also benefit individuals' mental health. 



The sense of doing something positive for the environment might provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction, which can improve overall well-being.



These findings highlight that while some people may initially act out of self-interest, many are beginning to value the broader impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/media-coverage-of-climate-change-fails-to-inspire-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their actions</a>. The positive personal effects, such as improved sleep, can serve as powerful motivators for encouraging more widespread environmental responsibility. 



As more people recognize the dual benefits of their actions, both for themselves and the planet, the momentum for meaningful change could grow stronger. 



This shift in perspective can lead to more sustainable behaviors becoming the norm, fostering a healthier relationship between individuals and the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-conversation">Climate change conversation</h2>



The climate change discourse is often fraught with fear-mongering and misinformation. Sensationalist narratives can lead to unnecessary fear and a sense of helplessness among the public. 



While acknowledging the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/38-trillion-dollars-per-year-economic-losses-expected-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential impacts</a> of climate change is crucial for raising awareness and driving policy changes, it's equally important to avoid exaggeration. Overstating the dangers can overshadow the significant progress being made and can undermine public trust in scientific discourse.



Focusing on actionable solutions is vital for fostering a constructive approach to tackling climate issues. Instead of dwelling on apocalyptic scenarios, we should highlight practical measures that individuals, communities, and governments can take to mitigate climate change. 



"It has become common to tell kids that they're going to die from climate change," states Ritchie. Such alarmist messages can be counterproductive, fostering despair instead of encouraging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">action</a>.



Promoting sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, and supporting climate-friendly policies are steps that can make a real difference. 



By emphasizing solutions over fear, we can empower people to take <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/panic-driven-doom-gloom-climate-change-messages-do-not-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meaningful action</a> and foster a more informed, proactive, and optimistic attitude toward addressing climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-action-and-balance">Hope, action, and balance</h2>



The climate change conversation needs a balanced perspective. While the challenges are real, so is the progress we've made. By focusing on solutions and fostering a sense of hope, we can empower individuals to take meaningful action.



Remember, as Professor Hulme reminds us, climate change isn't the only global issue. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses multiple challenges simultaneously, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.



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Most people fear climate change will end the world during their lifetime

A recent survey has unveiled a startling statistic: nearly half...

Toronto,-,May,5:,A,Teen,Age,Girl,Smoking,Recreational

Cannabis legalization has been a hot topic, with proponents touting its potential medical benefits and opponents raising alarms about potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-in-adolescence-linked-to-cognitive-deficits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health risks</a>, particularly with teens. 



Now, a new study is reigniting the debate, suggesting a stronger link than previously thought between teen cannabis use and the development of psychotic disorders. 



What does this mean for teens, parents, and policymakers?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teens-using-cannabis">Teens using cannabis</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (<a href="https://www.camh.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAMH</a>), and the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (<a href="https://www.ices.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICES</a>) embarked on a comprehensive study involving over 11,000 young people in Ontario, Canada. 



By linking self-reported cannabis use with health records, they uncovered a startling trend: teens who use cannabis are 11 times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder than those who don't.



According to healthcare professionals, this is a wake-up call, especially considering the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising potency</a> of cannabis products. 



"These findings are consistent with the neurodevelopmental theory that teens are especially vulnerable to the effects of cannabis," lead author André McDonald notes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teens-are-more-vulnerable-to-cannabis-impacts">Teens are more vulnerable to cannabis impacts</h2>



One of the most striking aspects of the study is the age-dependent nature of the association. Teens who used cannabis faced a significantly elevated risk of psychosis, while young adults did not show the same link. 



This suggests a critical window of vulnerability during adolescence, a period when the brain undergoes significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-cannabis-use-disorder-risk-varies-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a>. The findings highlight the importance of focusing prevention efforts on younger individuals, as their developing brains may be more susceptible to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-smokers-not-lazy-unmotivated-despite-stereotypes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects</a> of cannabis. 



Understanding this age-specific risk is crucial for developing effective public health strategies to mitigate the potential harms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis use</a>.



"We found a very strong association between cannabis use and risk of psychotic disorder in adolescence. Surprisingly, we didn't find evidence of association in young adulthood," says McDonald. 



This age-specific risk underscores the importance of targeted prevention strategies for teens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-cannabis-use-on-teens">Impact of cannabis use on teens</h2>



The study's findings are sobering. Roughly 5 out of 6 teens hospitalized or visiting the emergency department for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-linked-to-psychosis-among-adolescents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psychotic disorder</a> had previously reported using cannabis. 



The average THC potency of cannabis in Canada has skyrocketed from 1% in 1980 to 20% in 2018. While most teens who use cannabis won't develop a psychotic disorder, most teens diagnosed with a psychotic disorder have a history of cannabis use. 



This further highlights the significant risk associated with cannabis use during adolescence, emphasizing the need for prevention and awareness efforts to protect young people's mental health.



These figures paint a complex picture. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis use</a> doesn't guarantee a psychotic disorder, the strong correlation raises serious concerns about the potential consequences, especially for young people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-prevention-and-further-research">Need for prevention and further research</h2>



The researchers acknowledge the study's limitations, including the possibility of reverse causation, where teens with psychotic symptoms may self-medicate with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-cannabis-use-disorder-risk-varies-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, and the lack of data on genetic and environmental factors. 



Despite these limitations, the findings highlight the urgent need for more research and proactive prevention strategies. The strong association between teen cannabis use and psychotic disorders calls for increased awareness and targeted interventions to protect adolescent mental health. 



Understanding the broader impacts and underlying causes will be crucial for developing effective public health policies and minimizing the risks associated with early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runners-high-cannabis-makes-exercise-more-enjoyable-and-boosts-motivation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis use</a>.



"As commercialized cannabis products have become more widely available, and have a higher THC content, the development of prevention strategies targeting teens is more important than ever," notes senior author Susan Bondy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications">Study implications</h2>



Whether you're a parent, a teen, or someone interested in public health, these findings are relevant. They highlight the importance of several things:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Open conversations</h3>



Talking to your teens about the potential risks of cannabis use is crucial, especially during adolescence. Engage in open and honest discussions about how cannabis can affect their developing brain and mental health. 



Create a safe space where they feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their thoughts. Highlight the increased risks and share the latest research findings to provide a clear understanding of why avoiding cannabis is important during their formative years.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Education</h3>



Stay informed about the latest research on cannabis and its effects on the brain. Knowledge is power, and by keeping up-to-date with new studies and findings, you can provide accurate information to your teens. 



Understanding the changes in cannabis potency and the specific risks associated with adolescent use can help you make informed decisions and guide your children effectively. 



Attend community talks, read scientific articles, and utilize resources from reputable health organizations to stay educated.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prevention</h3>



Support initiatives that aim to reduce teen cannabis use and promote healthy alternatives. Get involved in local and national campaigns focused on preventing early cannabis use. Advocate for policies that restrict the availability of high-potency cannabis products to minors. 



Encourage schools and community programs to incorporate cannabis education into their curricula. Additionally, promote and participate in activities that offer healthy and engaging alternatives to drug use, such as sports, arts, and volunteer opportunities.



The debate over cannabis <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legalization</a> is far from over. But with this new evidence, it's clear that we need to prioritize the health and well-being of young people, protecting them from potential harm while exploring the potential benefits of this complex plant.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/agedependent-association-of-cannabis-use-with-risk-of-psychotic-disorder/BDCA0F73CDD7AF150D6FDCF89D29DC7F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psychological Medicine</a>.



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Cannabis' link to psychotic disorders in teens is stronger than previously believed

Cannabis legalization has been a hot topic, with proponents touting...

In a breathtaking new image from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, a trio of dazzling stars known as HP Tau illuminates the hollowed-out cavity of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/dawn-sunlike-star_HP-Tau_hubble_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reflection nebula</a>, creating a sight that resembles a glittering cosmic geode. 



The stunning celestial display showcases the beauty and complexity of the universe, inviting us to explore the fascinating world of young stars and their surroundings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triple-star-system-hp-tau">Triple-star system HP Tau</h2>



The stars at the heart of this celestial geode are part of a triple-star system known as HP Tau, located approximately 550 light-years away in the constellation Taurus. 



HP Tau is a T Tauri star, a type of young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/betelgeuse-one-of-our-brightest-stars-will-vanish-from-sight-next-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variable star</a> that has yet to begin nuclear fusion but is evolving into a hydrogen-fueled star similar to our Sun.



According to <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, "T Tauri stars tend to be younger than 10 million years old -- in comparison, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/see-the-sun-in-exquisite-detail-in-rare-solar-orbiter-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our Sun</a> is around 4.6 billion years old -- and are often found still swaddled in the clouds of dust and gas from which they formed."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enigmatic-nature-of-variable-stars">Enigmatic nature of variable stars</h2>



As a variable star, HP Tau's brightness fluctuates over time, exhibiting both periodic and random variations. These changes in brightness can be attributed to several factors.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-random-variations">Random variations</h3>



<ul>
<li>Chaotic nature of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">developing young star</a></li>



<li>Instabilities in the accretion disk of dust and gas around the star</li>



<li>Material from the accretion disk falling onto the star and being consumed</li>



<li>Flares on the star's surface</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-periodic-changes">Periodic changes</h3>



<ul>
<li>Giant sunspots rotating in and out of view</li>



<li>Other variables still unknown to modern science</li>
</ul>



These variations in brightness add to the intrigue and mystery surrounding young stars like HP Tau, as astronomers work to unravel the complexities of their formation and evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enchanting-glow-of-a-reflection-nebula">Enchanting glow of a reflection nebula</h2>



Enveloping the triple-star system is a mesmerizing cloud of gas and dust that shines with the reflected light of the stars. 



This phenomenon, known as a reflection nebula, does not emit visible light of its own but instead glows as the light from nearby stars bounces off the gas and dust particles.



NASA likens this effect to "fog illuminated by the glow of a car's headlights," creating a stunning visual display that highlights the intricate interplay between stars and the interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-s-investigation-into-protoplanetary-disks">Hubble's investigation into protoplanetary disks</h2>



The Hubble Space Telescope's observation of HP Tau is part of a larger investigation into protoplanetary disks, the disks of material around stars that eventually coalesce into planets over millions of years. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of protoplanetary disks like HP Tau</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-stars-shape-planetary-systems-like-ours-with-ultraviolet-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Protoplanetary disks</a> are the birthplaces of planets. These flat, rotating disks of gas and dust surround young stars and provide the raw materials for planetary formation. 



The disks form from the collapse of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular cloud</a>, which is a dense region of interstellar gas and dust.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Role of angular momentum</h3>



As the young star grows and begins to rotate, the surrounding material flattens into a disk shape due to conservation of angular momentum. 



Dust particles within the disk collide and stick together, gradually growing larger and forming small rocky bodies called planetesimals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From planetesimals to planets</h3>



Over millions of years, these planetesimals continue to collide and merge, eventually forming larger bodies such as asteroids, comets, and even planets. 



The gas in the disk can also be accreted onto these growing bodies, creating the potential for gas giants like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a> and Saturn to form.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Evolution of HP Tau protoplanetary disks</h3>



As the young star continues to evolve and emit strong stellar winds, it slowly dissipates the remaining gas in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-butterfly-iras-23077-discovery-flips-planet-formation-understanding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protoplanetary disk</a>. 



This process leaves behind a debris disk, which is a collection of leftover rocky and icy material that failed to form planets.



By studying young stars like HP Tau, astronomers using Hubble or other space telescopes can gain valuable insights into the early stages of planetary formation and the conditions necessary for the emergence of new worlds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hp-tau-reflection-mirror-into-the-cosmos">HP Tau: Reflection mirror into the cosmos</h2>



This spectacular new Hubble image of the celestial geode surrounding HP Tau is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty and complexity of the universe. 



By capturing the dazzling trio of stars and the enchanting glow of the reflection nebula, Hubble has provided us with a glimpse into the fascinating world of young stars and the processes that shape the cosmos. 



As we continue to explore the mysteries of the universe, images like this serve as a reminder of the wonders that await discovery.



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Birth of a Sun-like star, HP Tau, seen through the eyes of Hubble

In a breathtaking new image from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope,...

NASA has achieved a significant breakthrough in the development of 3D printable materials with the release of a new material with "unprecedented strength" that they are calling GRX-810.



This superalloy can withstand high temperatures, enabling the production of more robust and long-lasting components for aviation and space applications, marking a significant advancement in materials science.



GRX-810's properties of exceptional strength and durability make it ideal for use in building aircraft and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/io-jupiter-moon-juno-mission-discovers-fire-mountains-polar-cyclones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spacecraft</a>, promising to revolutionize design and performance in the aerospace industry. 



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



Alloys and superalloys are materials created by combining two or more metals or a metal with another element. 



This combination enhances the properties of the base metals, making alloys stronger, lighter, more durable, or more resistant to corrosion than pure metals. 



The unique characteristics of alloys make them indispensable in various industries, especially aerospace.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Structural components</h3>



In aerospace, alloys are fundamental in constructing the frames and bodies of aircraft and spacecraft. Aluminum alloys are widely used due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratio. 



These alloys provide the necessary structural integrity while keeping the overall weight low, which is crucial for improving fuel efficiency and performance. 



For example, the fuselage and wings of modern aircraft often incorporate aluminum alloys to ensure both durability and lightness.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Engine parts</h3>



The engines of aircraft and spacecraft operate under extreme conditions, including high temperatures and intense stress. 



High-performance alloys, such as titanium and nickel-based superalloys, are used in these components because they can withstand these harsh conditions without degrading. 



These alloys are crucial for parts like turbine blades and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-engineer-creates-propellantless-propulsion-system-defies-laws-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">combustion chambers</a>, where maintaining structural integrity at high temperatures is essential for safety and efficiency.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fuel systems</h3>



Alloys play a vital role in the construction of fuel tanks and fuel lines. Materials like stainless steel and certain aluminum alloys are used because of their durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures the safe storage and transport of fuel, preventing leaks and minimizing maintenance needs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thermal protection</h3>



Spacecraft re-entering Earth's atmosphere face extreme heat due to air friction. Alloys with high heat resistance, such as certain nickel and titanium alloys, are used in thermal protection systems. 



These materials can withstand the intense temperatures and prevent the spacecraft from overheating, thus protecting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-aims-to-build-a-train-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle</a> and its occupants.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Landing gear</h3>



The landing gear of aircraft must endure significant stress during takeoff and landing. Strong and tough alloys like titanium are ideal for this application. 



Titanium alloys can absorb the shock of landing and support the aircraft's weight, providing reliable performance and reducing the risk of failure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-grx-810-alloy-s-structure">NASA's GRX-810 alloy's structure</h2>



GRX-810's exceptional properties stem from its unique microstructure. The alloy is infused with nanoscale oxide particles, which act as reinforcements, enhancing its mechanical properties. 



This enables NASA's GRX-810 alloy to withstand temperatures exceeding 2,000°F -- hotter than most volcanic lava -- making it ideal for high-temperature applications in <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GRX-810_superalloy_turbine-engine-combuster_3d-printed_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jet engines and rocket components</a>.



GRX-810 not only withstands extreme temperatures but also demonstrates exceptional durability. It outperforms existing state-of-the-art alloys by over 1,000 times in high-temperature stress tests. 



Additionally, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s GRX-810 alloy offers enhanced malleability, allowing it to deform under stress before fracturing. This combination of thermal resilience and durability makes it a robust performer, ideal for demanding aerospace applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-of-nasa-s-grx-810-alloy">Modeling of NASA's GRX-810 alloy</h2>



Developing ODS alloys like GRX-810 has traditionally been a complex and costly endeavor. However, NASA researchers have pioneered a novel approach that combines computational modeling with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/3d-food-printing-could-enhance-nutrition-and-food-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D printing</a>. 



This innovative methodology enables the precise distribution of oxide particles throughout the alloy, resulting in optimal high-temperature properties and unprecedented performance.



"Applying these two processes has drastically accelerated the rate of our materials development. We can now produce new materials faster and with better performance than before," explains Tim Smith, a materials research scientist at NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/glenn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glenn Research Center</a> and co-inventor of GRX-810.



This accelerated development cycle not only reduces costs but also opens up new avenues for rapid innovation in materials science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transforming-the-future-of-flight">Transforming the future of flight</h2>



The implications of GRX-810 extend far beyond improved engine components. Its application could significantly reduce fuel consumption, lower operating costs, and contribute to more sustainable aviation practices. 



"This breakthrough is revolutionary for materials development. New types of stronger and more lightweight materials play a key role as NASA aims to change the future of flight," explains Dale Hopkins, deputy project manager of NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/armd/tacp/ttt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Transformational Tools and Technologies</a> project.



NASA's GRX-810 alloy also empowers engine designers with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-first-evidence-of-a-self-healing-metal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new possibilities</a>. The alloy's exceptional strength-to-weight ratio allows for lighter designs without compromising performance, opening up previously unattainable trade-offs. 



This newfound flexibility could lead to more efficient and innovative engine designs, pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-nasa-s-grx-810-alloy">Significance of NASA's GRX-810 alloy</h2>



GRX-810 marks a paradigm shift in materials science by combining advanced computational modeling with additive manufacturing. 



Evidently, this new alloy has immense potential to transform the aerospace industry. It promises lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft and spacecraft that can endure the harshest environments.



As NASA continues to push the boundaries of innovation, GRX-810 stands as a testament to the agency's commitment to advancing the future of flight. The alloy's development reflects NASA's dedication to creating groundbreaking technologies. 



This ensures that the aerospace industry can meet the challenges of tomorrow with enhanced performance and sustainability. 



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NASA's new super-metal 'GRX-810' set to transform the future

NASA has achieved a significant breakthrough in the development of...

Super,Massive,Black,Hole,-,A,Black,Hole,Is,A

Astronomers have provided the first observational proof of a key prediction made by Einstein's theory of gravity concerning black hole "waterfalls" hiding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">throughout the universe</a>.



The study confirms the existence of a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-it-be-like-to-fall-into-a-black-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plunging-region</a>" around black holes, where matter stops circling the hole and instead falls straight in, experiencing some of the strongest gravitational forces yet identified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in the galaxy</a>.



The research was led by Dr. Andrew Mummery and his colleagues at <a href="https://www.physics.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University Physics</a>, as part of their ongoing investigations into the outstanding mysteries surrounding black holes. 



The team utilized X-ray data gathered from NASA's space-based Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/nuclear-spectroscopic-telescope-array-nustar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NuSTAR</a>) and Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer (<a href="https://heasarc.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/nicer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NICER</a>) telescopes to study smaller black holes relatively close to Earth.



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



Black holes are regions in space where gravity reigns supreme. These invisible giants form when massive stars, having exhausted their nuclear fuel, collapse under their own immense weight. 



The resulting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primordial-black-holes-may-be-shifting-earths-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational pull</a> is so powerful that nothing, not even light, can escape its grasp once it crosses the event horizon, the point of no return. 



Black holes come in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-black-hole-disrupts-a-bigger-one-causing-cosmic-hiccups/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various sizes</a>, from stellar-mass black holes that are a few times more massive than our Sun, to supermassive black holes lurking at the hearts of galaxies, with masses millions or even billions of times greater. 



Despite their reputation for being <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/18-black-holes-captured-devouring-nearby-stars-in-dramatic-tidal-disruption-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destructive forces</a>, black holes play a crucial role in shaping the universe, influencing the formation and evolution of galaxies, and providing us with a unique laboratory to test our understanding of the fundamental laws of physics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-einstein-s-black-hole-theory-triumphs">Einstein's black hole theory triumphs</h2>



Einstein's theory of gravity differs from Newton's in its prediction that particles cannot safely follow circular orbits sufficiently close to a black hole. 



Instead, they rapidly "plunge" toward the black hole at close to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-tunneling-allow-particles-break-light-speed-barrier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speed of light</a>. This study marks the first time researchers have been able to demonstrate this phenomenon happening.



"This is the first look at how plasma, peeled from the outer edge of a star, undergoes its final fall into the center of a black hole, a process happening in a system around ten thousand light years away," Dr. Mummery explained.



There are many black holes in the galaxy, and astronomers now have a powerful new technique for using them to study the strongest known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-jets-are-like-million-light-year-long-jedi-lightsabers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational fields</a>.



Einstein's theory predicted that this final plunge would exist, but this is the first time scientists were able to demonstrate it actually happening. 



"Think of it like a river turning into a waterfall – hitherto, we have been looking at the river. This is the first sight of the waterfall," Dr. Mummery enthused.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-x-ray-vision-to-peer-into-black-hole-hearts">Using x-ray vision to peer into black hole hearts</h2>



The confirmation of the plunging region's existence marks an exciting new development in the study of black holes. It allows researchers to investigate this final area around them and fully understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jwst-has-detected-most-distant-black-hole-merger-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational force</a> at play. 



As Dr Mummery stated, "This final plunge of plasma happens at the very edge of a black hole and shows matter responding to gravity in its strongest possible form."



Astrophysicists have long been trying to understand what happens close to a black hole's surface by studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-black-hole-ever-discovered-dates-back-to-the-dawn-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discs of material</a> orbiting around them. 



The existence of the plunging region, where it is impossible to stop a final descent into the black hole, has been a topic of debate for many decades.



The Oxford team's detection of this region using X-ray telescopes and data from the International Space Station settles this debate and opens up new avenues for research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-research-going-beyond-the-event-horizon">Black hole research going beyond the event horizon</h2>



While this study focused on small black holes closer to Earth, a second study team from Oxford University Physics is part of a European initiative to build a new telescope called <a href="https://www.physics.ox.ac.uk/news/grant-build-new-telescope-africa-enable-colour-movies-black-holes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Africa Millimetre Telescope</a>. 



This telescope is expected to greatly enhance our ability to make direct images of black holes, both at the center of our own galaxy and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-supermassive-black-hole-found-in-the-shadows-of-the-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">far beyond</a>.



The team hopes to observe and film, for the first time, the event horizons of large black holes, which are believed to drag material from space toward their center in a spiral as the black hole rotates. 



These represent almost unimaginable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-is-created-and-contained-in-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sources of energy</a>, and their observation would mark another significant milestone in our understanding of these fascinating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic objects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proving-einstein-correct-once-again">Proving Einstein correct once again</h2>



As we continue to push the boundaries of our understanding of black holes, the incredible discoveries made by the Oxford University Physics team serve as a testament to the enduring power of Einstein's theory of gravity. 



In summary, by confirming the existence of black hole waterfalls at the plunging region, and detecting the strongest gravitational forces yet identified in the galaxy, these researchers have proven the voracity of new methods for exploring the most extreme environments in the universe. 



With the development of cutting-edge telescopes like The Africa Millimetre Telescope, we stand on the brink of a new era in black hole research, one that promises to unveil the secrets of these enigmatic cosmic giants and bring us closer to understanding the fundamental laws that govern our universe.



The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/531/1/366/7671518" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a>.



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Black hole "waterfall" discovery proves Einstein right again

Astronomers have provided the first observational proof of a key...

A team of researchers has shed new light on the mysterious pockmarks that dot the seafloor off the coast of Central California. The findings reveal that powerful sediment flows, not methane gas eruptions, may be responsible for maintaining these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-mysterious-ocean-pits-linked-to-porpoises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric formations</a>.



The research was conducted by a collaborative team from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (<a href="https://www.mbari.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MBARI</a>), the United States Geological Survey (<a href="https://www.usgs.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USGS</a>), and <a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>. 



Their work provides crucial information to guide decision-making about responsible use and management of the seafloor off California, including site assessments for the development of offshore wind farms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solving-the-mystery-of-the-sur-pockmark-field">Solving the mystery of the Sur Pockmark Field</h2>



The Sur Pockmark Field, located off the coast of Big Sur, California, spans an area comparable to the size of Los Angeles and contains over <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/pockmarks_holes_ocean-floor_map_credit-mbari_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">5,200 circular depressions</a>. 



Each of these pockmarks measures approximately 200 meters across and five meters deep. Resource managers were particularly interested in understanding the role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/methane-emissions-are-higher-than-previously-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane</a> in these formations due to planned offshore wind farms in Central California.



However, data collected by the experts found no evidence of methane gas in the pockmarks. Instead, they discovered that sediment gravity flows, akin to underwater avalanches of mud, sand, and water, have been maintaining these formations for hundreds of thousands of years.



“There are many unanswered questions about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seafloor-spreading-has-slowed-down-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seafloor</a> and its processes,” said MBARI Senior Research Technician Eve Lundsten, who led the study. “This research provides important data about the seafloor for resource managers and others considering potential offshore sites for underwater infrastructure to guide their decision-making.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sending-in-the-robots-autonomous-underwater-vehicles-auvs">Sending in the robots: Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)</h2>



The research team utilized MBARI’s advanced underwater robots to study the Sur Pockmark Field. Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) mapped the region with greater detail than previous sonar surveys. 



These maps guided the sampling process conducted by MBARI’s remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Doc Ricketts, which collected sediment samples to reconstruct the history of individual pockmarks.



The scientists discovered multiple layers of sandy deposits, known as turbidites, within the pockmarks, indicating that large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-sediments-predict-future-stressors-for-cold-water-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediment</a> gravity flows have occurred intermittently for at least the past 280,000 years. These flows cause erosion at the center of each pockmark, maintaining their distinctive shape over time.



“We collected a massive amount of data, allowing us to make a surprising link between pockmarks and sediment gravity flows. We were unable to determine exactly how these pockmarks were initially formed, but with MBARI’s advanced underwater technology, we’ve gained new insight into how and why these features have persisted on the seafloor for hundreds of thousands of years,” said Lundsten.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-offshore-wind-energy-development">Implications for offshore wind energy development</h2>



Pockmarks found in other parts of the world have been associated with the release of methane gas, which could destabilize the seafloor and pose risks to structures like offshore wind turbines. 



The findings from the Sur Pockmark Field are crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of proposed offshore wind energy projects in Central California. 



MBARI's research, driven by the need for renewable energy development, has provided critical insights into the stability of the seafloor in this region.



“Expanding renewable energy is critical to achieving the dramatic cuts in carbon dioxide emissions needed to prevent further irreversible climate change. However, there are still many unanswered questions about the possible environmental impacts of offshore <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-impacts-solar-wind-energy/">wind energy</a> development,” said MBARI President and CEO Chris Scholin. 



“This research is one of many ways that MBARI researchers are answering fundamental questions about our ocean to help inform decisions about how we use marine resources," Scholin continued.



The Sur Pockmark Field is now one of the best-studied seafloor areas on the west coast of North America, thanks to the efforts of MBARI and other institutions. 



However, questions remain about the initial formation of these pockmarks. Further research will be necessary to fully understand the processes that shaped these unique underwater features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-computer-modeling-and-further-research">Next Steps: Computer modeling and further research</h2>



In summary, by deploying advanced underwater technology and fostering collaborative research efforts, scientists have uncovered the surprising link between sediment gravity flows and the maintenance of the prehistoric formations in the Sur Pockmark Field. 



This discovery enhances our knowledge of the deep sea ecosystem and provides crucial information to guide decision-making for responsible use and management of the seafloor, particularly in the context of offshore wind energy development. 



As we continue to explore the mysteries of the deep, studies like this underscore the importance of ongoing research and collaboration in advancing our understanding of the complex and dynamic processes that shape our oceans.



The study is published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JF007374" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface</a>.



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Mystery deepens over origin of thousands of massive holes on the ocean floor

A team of researchers has shed new light on the...

3d,Rendering,Of,The,Caudipteryx

Recent research has uncovered a surprising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-debunk-bergmanns-rule-classic-climate-theory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">detail</a> about feathered dinosaurs: they weren't entirely feathered. These ancient creatures sported a mix of reptile-like scaly skin and feathery patches, a revelation that's changing our understanding of the evolution of feathers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feathered-dinosaurs-skin-under-uv">Feathered dinosaurs skin under UV</h2>



A seemingly unremarkable <a href="https://static-content.springer.com/esm/art%3A10.1038%2Fs41467-024-48400-3/MediaObjects/41467_2024_48400_MOESM1_ESM.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur fossil</a>, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, revealed an unexpected secret: patches of preserved skin that fluoresced a vibrant orange-yellow. 



This fascinating discovery occurred during the examination of a Psittacosaurus specimen by paleontologists at University College Cork (<a href="https://www.ucc.ie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCC</a>) in Ireland. This finding indicates that feathers were not the sole covering of this dinosaur's body. 



The UV light exposed areas of preserved skin where feathers were not present, suggesting a more complex integumentary system than previously thought.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"The fossil truly is a hidden gem. The fossil skin is not visible to the naked eye, and it remained hidden when the specimen was donated to <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/">Nanjing </a><a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U</a><a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/">niversity</a> in 2021. Only under UV light is the skin visible, in a striking orange-yellow glow," noted Dr. Zixiao Yang, one of the lead researchers.
</blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-psittacosaurus-dinosaur">Understanding the Psittacosaurus dinosaur</h2>



Psittacosaurus, a small ceratopsian dinosaur, roamed the earth during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chinese-fossil-provides-a-new-glimpse-into-early-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early Cretaceous period</a>, approximately 130 to 100 million years ago. 



This herbivorous creature thrived in what is now Asia, primarily in regions of modern-day China, Mongolia, and Russia. 



Psittacosaurus stood out among its contemporaries due to its distinctive parrot-like beak, which inspired its name, translating to "parrot lizard."



Growing to lengths of about 6.5 feet (2 meters), Psittacosaurus possessed a sturdy build and walked on two legs, although it could likely adopt a quadrupedal stance while feeding. 



Its skull featured a prominent beak and powerful jaws, well-suited for slicing through tough plant material. Unlike later ceratopsians, such as Triceratops, Psittacosaurus lacked the characteristic horns and neck frill.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glassy-skin-of-feathered-dinosaurs">Glassy skin of feathered dinosaurs</h2>



The research team employed advanced imaging techniques, utilizing X-rays and infrared light to examine the fossilized skin in greater detail. 



This allowed them to observe the intricate cellular structure of the skin, which had been remarkably preserved over millions of years. 



Unexpectedly, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Low-Res_fossil-skin-under-an-electron-microscope.webp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> revealed that the skin was primarily composed of silica, a mineral compound most commonly known as the main component of glass. This discovery marks the first instance of silica-based skin preservation in vertebrate fossils. 



This fossil's well-preserved soft tissue hints at more hidden finds in other specimens. Researchers can now explore new areas in ancient biology and evolution. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zoned-development-concept">Zoned development concept</h2>



The most remarkable aspect of this discovery lies in what it reveals about the evolution of feathers.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
"The evolution of feathers from reptilian scales is one of the most profound yet poorly understood events in vertebrate evolution. While numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-fossil-feather-discovered-archaeopteryx/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils of feathers</a> have been studied, fossil skin is much more rare," Prof. Maria McNamara, the senior author of the study, explains.
</blockquote>



The researchers introduce the concept of "zoned development." They suggest that soft, <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/are-birds-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird-like</a> skin evolved only in feathered areas. The rest of the body retained scaly skin, similar to modern reptiles like lizards.



This unique adaptation allowed early feathered dinosaurs to protect against abrasion, dehydration, and parasites. Simultaneously, they could experiment with the evolutionary benefits of feathers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-dinosaur-history">Rewriting dinosaur history</h2>



This revelation challenges our previous understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-bird-feathers-contain-traces-of-dinosaur-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of feathers</a>, suggesting a more gradual and complex process than previously thought. 



It paints a picture of a transitional period where dinosaurs sported a patchwork of scales and feathers, a far cry from the fully feathered creatures we often envision.



This research not only provides valuable insights into the evolution of feathered dinosaurs skin but also hints at a wealth of hidden information waiting to be discovered in other fossils. Who knows what other secrets lie hidden beneath the surface, waiting for the glow of UV light to reveal them?



As we continue to unearth the mysteries of the past, one thing is clear: the world of dinosaurs was far more diverse and fascinating than we ever imagined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feathered-dinosaurs-beyond-the-skin">Feathered dinosaurs: Beyond the skin</h2>



Feathered dinosaurs have revolutionized our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-may-have-become-warm-blooded-180-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric</a> life. The iconic Archaeopteryx, discovered in the 19th century, provided the first glimpse of a feathered dinosaur, bridging the gap between dinosaurs and birds with its avian and reptilian features. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-bright-rainbow-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Feathers</a> initially evolved for insulation, helping dinosaurs like Sinosauropteryx retain body heat. Later, feathers became crucial for display and communication, evident in the colorful plumage of some species. Microraptor, with its four wings, illustrates the early stages of gliding and flight evolution.



Modern technology has transformed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/locomotive-versatility-helped-dinosaurs-adapt-and-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">palaeontology</a>. High-resolution imaging and electron microscopy reveal intricate details of feather structure and pigmentation. 



Spectacular finds, like feathers preserved in amber, provide direct evidence of their color and pattern. Moreover, research on feathered dinosaurs sheds light on the origins of birds. 



By tracing their evolutionary steps, scientists understand how avian features like flight and feathers developed. This research also helps explain the diversity and adaptations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-less-intelligent-than-modern-day-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern</a> birds.



Feathered dinosaurs highlight the dynamic evolution from ancient theropods to today’s birds. As new technologies and discoveries emerge, our understanding of these fascinating creatures continues to grow, showcasing the intricate tapestry of life on Earth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48400-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Feathered dinosaurs had scaly skin like modern-day lizards

Recent research has uncovered a surprising detail about feathered dinosaurs:...

In the quest to promote healthier aging and prevent cognitive decline, scientists have been diligently studying the brain for years. 



While much is known about the risk factors that can accelerate brain aging, less has been uncovered about effective ways to maintain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-for-the-aging-brain-mediterranean-diet-protects-cognitive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a> as we grow older. 



However, recent research has shed new light on the crucial role that specific nutrients play in the healthy aging of the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combining-neuroscience-and-nutritional-science">Combining neuroscience and nutritional science</h2>



The study, published in Nature Aging, was led by Aron Barbey, director of the Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior at the <a href="https://www.unl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska–Lincoln</a>. 



At his side was Jisheng Wu, a doctoral student at Nebraska, and Christopher Zwilling, research scientist at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> at Urbana-Champaign. 



This brilliant team of scientists combined state-of-the-art innovations in neuroscience and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-nutrition-science-dna-barcoding-reveals-dietary-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritional science</a> to conduct a multimodal study that identified a specific nutrient profile in participants who performed better cognitively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-two-types-of-brain-aging">Identifying two types of brain aging</h2>



The cross-sectional study enrolled 100 cognitively healthy participants, aged 65-75, who completed a questionnaire with demographic information, body measurements, and physical activity. 



Blood plasma was collected following a fasting period to analyze the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient biomarkers</a>, and participants also underwent cognitive assessments and MRI scans. 



The efforts revealed two types of brain aging among the participants: accelerated and slower-than-expected. Interestingly, those with slower brain aging had a distinct nutrient profile.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-boosting-beneficial-nutrients">Brain-boosting beneficial nutrients</h2>



The beneficial nutrient blood biomarkers identified in the study were a combination of 



<ul>
<li>Fatty acids: Vaccenic, gondoic, alpha linolenic, elcosapentaenoic, eicosadienoic, and lignoceric acids</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Antioxidants and carotenoids: Including cis-lutein, trans-lutein, and zeaxanthin</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Two forms of vitamin E: Found in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds to name a few</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Choline: Found in egg yolks and fish, to name two examples</li>
</ul>



This profile is correlated with nutrients found in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-keeps-the-brain-sharp-even-in-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean diet</a>, which previous research has associated with healthy brain aging.



"We investigated specific nutrient biomarkers, such as fatty acid profiles, known in nutritional science to potentially offer health benefits," Barbey explained. 



This aligns with the extensive body of research in the field demonstrating the positive health effects of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-can-live-longer-on-the-mediterranean-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean Diet</a>, which emphasizes foods rich in these beneficial nutrients.



The present study identifies particular nutrient biomarker patterns that are promising and have favorable associations with measures of cognitive performance and brain health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Linking diet, cognition, and brain function</h2>



One of the unique aspects of this study is its comprehensive approach, which integrates data on nutrition, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cheese-may-contain-nutrients-that-prevent-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>, and brain imaging. 



"This allows us to build a more robust understanding of the relationship between these factors. We move beyond simply measuring cognitive performance with traditional neuropsychological tests," Barbey noted. 



"Instead, we simultaneously examine brain structure, function, and metabolism, demonstrating a direct link between these brain properties and cognitive abilities," he continued.



According to their research, these brain properties are directly linked to diet and nutrition, as revealed by the patterns observed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-improves-sperm-quality-and-fertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient biomarkers</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-brain-aging-research">Next steps in brain aging research</h2>



The researchers plan to continue exploring this nutrient profile as it relates to healthy brain aging. Barbey noted that it's possible, in the future, that the findings will aid in developing therapies and interventions to promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/olive-oil-can-boost-brain-health-and-fight-off-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. 



"An important next step involves conducting randomized controlled trials. In these trials, we will isolate specific nutrients with favorable associations with cognitive function and brain health, and administer them in the form of nutraceuticals," he said. 



This approach will allow the scientists to definitively assess whether increasing the levels of these specific nutrient profiles reliably leads to improvements in cognitive test performance and measures of brain structure, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/regular-daytime-napping-increases-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">function</a>, and metabolism.



In addition to the ongoing research, Barbey is also co-editing an upcoming special collection for the Journal of Nutrition, titled "Nutrition and the Brain — Exploring Pathways to Optimal Brain Health Through Nutrition." 



"The National Institutes of Health recently launched a ten-year strategic plan to significantly accelerate nutrition research. Our work directly aligns with this critical initiative, aiming to contribute valuable insights into how dietary patterns influence brain health and cognitive function," Barbey concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-gracefully-with-a-healthy-brain">Aging gracefully with a healthy brain</h2>



In summary, this intriguing study led by Aron Barbey and his team at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has opened new doors in our understanding of the intricate relationship between nutrition and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-weight-training-boosts-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. 



By combining cutting-edge techniques in neuroscience and nutritional science, they have identified a specific nutrient profile that is associated with slower brain aging and better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-walking-quantifiably-improves-brain-health-and-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive performance</a>. 



This profile, rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds, aligns with the well-known Mediterranean diet and offers hope for future interventions aimed at promoting healthier brain aging. 



As researchers continue to explore this fascinating field through randomized controlled trials and special collections like the upcoming "Nutrition and the Brain" in the Journal of Nutrition, we move closer to unlocking the secrets of optimal brain health and developing targeted strategies to nourish our minds throughout our lives.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41514-024-00150-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Aging</a>.



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Eating foods with these key nutrients will dramatically slow brain aging

In the quest to promote healthier aging and prevent cognitive...

In the vast expanse of the universe, stars are born, live, and die in a cosmic dance that has captivated astronomers for centuries. While the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-discover-a-new-way-that-stars-die/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life cycle of stars</a> is well understood, there are still many mysteries surrounding their collapse and spectacular deaths. 



A recent study by astrophysicists at the University of Copenhagen's <a href="https://nbi.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niels Bohr Institute</a> has shed new light on a perplexing phenomenon: the sudden disappearance of stars from the night sky.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-collapse-into-black-holes-instead-of-supernova">Stars collapse into black holes instead of supernova</h2>



In our solar system, the Sun will eventually expand and become unstable, transforming into a white dwarf. 



However, if it were eight times heavier, it would explode as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a>, ejecting energy and mass before becoming a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-jets-cannibals-neutron-stars-explosions-contain-life-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a> or black hole.



While this process is well-known for massive stars, there is still much to learn about their spectacular deaths.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-supernova">What is a supernova?</h3>



A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-blaze-star-explosion-visible-one-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> is a powerful and luminous explosion that marks the end of a massive star's life. When a star at least eight times more massive than our Sun exhausts its nuclear fuel, its core collapses under its own gravity. 



This collapse triggers a violent explosion that releases an enormous amount of energy, often outshining an entire galaxy for a brief period. 



The explosion ejects the star's outer layers into space at incredible speeds, creating a spectacular light show visible across vast cosmic distances. 



The remnant of the star's core becomes either a neutron star or, if the original star was extremely massive, a black hole. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-known-cosmic-explosion-has-been-visible-for-three-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Supernovae</a> play a crucial role in the universe by recycling heavy elements and shaping the evolution of galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basics-of-black-holes">Basics of black holes</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Black holes</a> cannot be observed directly, as not even light can escape them. They can be identified by the energy emitted from the gasses around them or by their influence on nearby stars. 



There are three types of black holes:



<ul>
<li>Stellar black holes: Form from stars more than eight times the mass of the Sun. There may be as many as 100 million in our galaxy.</li>



<li>Supermassive black holes: Found at the center of nearly all galaxies, including our Milky Way's Sagittarius A*.</li>



<li>Intermediate-mass black holes: Recently identified as the missing link between stellar and supermassive black holes.</li>
</ul>



In this study, scientists have provided strong evidence that very massive stars can collapse completely without a supernova. The findings suggest that a star's gravitational pull can be so strong that it collapses into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-magnetic-fields-may-be-key-features-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> without an explosion.



“We believe that the core of a star can collapse under its own weight. Instead of a bright supernova explosion, the collapse continues until the star becomes a black hole,” said lead author Alejandro Vigna-Gómez, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Copenhagen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-stellar-evolution-and-star-collapse">Rethinking stellar evolution and star collapse</h2>



This discovery is linked to the phenomenon of disappearing stars, which has intrigued astronomers for many decades. 



“Were one to stand gazing up at a visible star going through a total collapse, it might just disappear from the heavens. The collapse is so complete that no explosion occurs, nothing escapes, and one wouldn't see any bright supernova in the night sky,” Vigna-Gómez explained.



“Astronomers have actually observed the sudden disappearance of brightly shining stars in recent times. We cannot be sure of a connection, but the results we have obtained from analyzing VFTS 243 has brought us much closer to a credible explanation," he continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-witnessing-a-star-collapse-in-vfts-243">Witnessing a star collapse in VFTS 243</h2>



As an unusual binary star system, VFTS 243 features a large star and a black hole roughly 10 times the Sun's mass. Despite the presence of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-black-hole-disrupts-a-bigger-one-causing-cosmic-hiccups/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a>, there are no signs of a supernova explosion. 



“Normally, supernova events in star systems can be measured in various ways after they occur. But despite the fact that VFTS 243 contains a star that has collapsed into a black hole, the traces of an explosion are nowhere to be found," Vigna-Gómez said.



VFTS 243 is an extraordinary system. The orbit of the system has barely changed since the collapse of the star into a black hole. 



The system shows no significant “natal kick,” an acceleration typically caused by a supernova explosion, and the orbit remains symmetrical. Analysis points to the black hole in VFTS 243 forming immediately, with energy lost via neutrinos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-natal-kick-eludes-to-star-collapse">Missing “natal kick” eludes to star collapse</h2>



Supernova explosions typically give newborn neutron stars or black holes a “natal kick” due to asymmetric matter emission. This kick accelerates the compact object. In the VFTS 243 system, the black hole's lack of acceleration suggests it did not undergo a supernova. 



The system's symmetrical orbit further supports the absence of an explosion. The researchers estimate that mass and energy released during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-it-be-like-to-fall-into-a-black-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole's formation</a> were consistent with a scenario involving neutrinos rather than baryonic matter.



“Our results highlight VFTS 243 as the best observable case so far for the theory of stellar black holes formed through total collapse, where the supernova explosion fails and which our models have shown to be possible," added co-author Irene Tamborra, an astrophysicist at the same university. 



"This is an important reality check for these models. And we certainly expect that the system will serve as a crucial benchmark for future research into stellar evolution and collapse," Tamborra concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pushing-the-boundaries-of-astrophysics">Pushing the boundaries of astrophysics</h2>



In summary, the discovery of VFTS 243 and the groundbreaking research conducted by the astrophysicists at the Niels Bohr Institute have proposed a new theory for understanding the mysterious phenomenon of disappearing stars and the formation of black holes. 



This study challenges our current understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/cosmic-cannibalism-and-stellar-winds-unveiling-the-secrets-of-messier-76/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a> and collapse, offering compelling evidence for the existence of complete stellar collapse without the signature supernova explosion. 



As we continue to explore the cosmos and unravel its secrets, the lessons learned from VFTS 243 will undoubtedly shape the future of stellar research, guiding us toward a deeper comprehension of the life and death of stars and the awe-inspiring intricacies of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-did-a-star-vanish-from-the-pleiades">Did a star vanish from the Pleiades?</h2>



Stars inexplicably disappearing have been frequently observed in modern times. For example, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1086/590053" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A Survey about Nothing</a>” led by astrophysicist Chris Kochanek actively looks for such stars and explanations for their disappearance.



Curious readers can explore historical accounts of disappearing stars, often tied to supernova scenarios. One example is the Greek myth associated with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/look-for-jupiter-saturn-and-the-pleiades-in-the-november-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pleiades star cluster</a>, known as the Seven Sisters. 



The myth tells of the seven daughters of the titan Atlas and the nymph Pleione. According to the story, one daughter married a mortal and went into hiding, providing a poetic, albeit unscientific, explanation for why only six stars are visible in the Pleiades.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.191403" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review Letters</a>.



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Stellar collapse: Why stars sometimes vanish from our skies

In the vast expanse of the universe, stars are born,...

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects every corner of our planet. As temperatures continue to rise, it's crucial to understand how this warming trend will impact our summer and winter seasons and the environment around us. 



Recent research has shed light on the effects of a warmer climate on seasonal temperatures, providing valuable insights into what we can expect in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-shells-tell-an-ancient-climate-story">Fossil shells tell an ancient climate story</h2>



Niels de Winter, an earth scientist affiliated with the Department of Earth Sciences at <a href="https://vu.nl/nl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam</a> and the AMGC research group at <a href="https://www.vub.be/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vrije Universiteit Brussel</a>, led a team of researchers in an important study published in Science Advances. 



The team analyzed the chemical composition of <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/fossil-Arctica-islandica_summer-warming_climate-history_Doris-Smudde_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil shells</a> from Antwerp, Belgium, which originated from mollusks such as oysters, cockles, and scallops that lived during the Pliocene epoch, approximately three million years ago.



By studying the shells from the Pliocene, the researchers were able to take a "snapshot" of the climate and gain insight into the difference between the seasons in a warmer world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-pliocene-epoch">Understanding the Pliocene epoch</h2>



During the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-cooling-trend-reversed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pliocene</a>, which lasted lasted from 5.3 million to 2.6 million years ago, Earth experienced a warmer and more stable climate compared to the present day, with average global temperatures around 2-3°C higher than now.



This warmer climate had significant impacts on the environment and life on Earth. Sea levels were higher, as much as 25 meters (82 feet) above present levels, due to the melting of ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica. The higher sea levels affected the coastlines and the distribution of land and ocean.



The Pliocene also saw the expansion of grasslands and savannas, as well as the evolution and diversification of many modern plant and animal species. 



Mammals such as horses, camels, and wolves roamed the landscapes, while early human ancestors, like Australopithecus, began to emerge in Africa.



The warmer climate of the Pliocene allowed for the growth of lush forests in regions that are now tundra, like the Canadian Arctic. The distribution of flora and fauna differed from today, with many species inhabiting areas they no longer occupy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clumped-isotope-analysis-method">Clumped isotope analysis method</h2>



To conduct their study, the researchers employed the "clumped isotope analysis" method. This innovative technique allows scientists to examine the composition of shells in greater detail by measuring the occurrence of rare heavy isotopes of both oxygen and carbon in the carbonate from which shells are built. 



These isotopes are more common in shells that formed in colder waters, making it possible to reconstruct the temperature in which the shells were formed.



The clumped isotope analysis method offers a more accurate approach to temperature reconstructions compared to conventional methods, as it does not rely on assumptions about the composition of the seawater in which the mollusks grew.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summer-temperatures-vs-winter-temperatures">Summer temperatures vs. winter temperatures</h2>



The key finding of the study is that in a warmer climate like the Pliocene, summers warm much more than winters. 



While winters became about 2.5 degrees warmer, temperatures during summer were approximately 4.3 degrees higher. 



This pattern is consistent with the projections of future climate models, which predict a similar amount of warming for the year 2100.



Niels de Winter, the lead researcher, explains the implications of this finding: "We will likely experience stronger temperature differences between summer and winter, and the chance of heatwaves during the summer will increase."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-future-summer-temperature-rise">Preparing for future summer temperature rise</h2>



This study of fossil shells from the Pliocene epoch provides a compelling glimpse into the potential impact of climate change on seasonal temperatures. 



By employing cutting-edge research methods like clumped isotope analysis, scientists have uncovered valuable insights into how summers warm faster than winters in a warmer climate. 



These findings enhance our understanding of the Earth's past but also serve as a stark warning about the consequences of continued global warming. 



As we grapple with the challenges of climate change, studies like this one underscore the importance of taking action to mitigate its effects and adapt to the changes that lie ahead. 



By heeding the lessons of the past, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet and all its inhabitants.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adl6717" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Summers warm faster than winters throughout Earth's climate history

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects every corner...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" 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 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



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

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

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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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"

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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



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

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



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

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

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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

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