This,Man-made,Vehicle,Reached,A,Record,Speed,Of,635,Thousand

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to achieve its most dangerous feat yet tomorrow, December 24, 2024. After a six-year journey of spiraling closer to the star at the heart of our solar system, the spacecraft is expected to come within 3.8 million miles of the Sun’s surface. 



This tiny distance in cosmic terms lets scientists capture a new type of information, revealing secrets about solar winds, extreme heat, and magnetic fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-probe-on-the-sun-s-doorstep">Solar probe on the Sun's doorstep</h2>



Engineers have spent years carefully adjusting <a href="https://blogs.nasa.gov/parkersolarprobe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parker’s flight path</a> using multiple Venus gravity assists. These flybys reshape the spacecraft’s orbit and tighten its looping path around the Sun. “This is one example of NASA’s bold missions, doing something that no one else has ever done before to answer longstanding questions about our universe,” explained <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/people/dr-arik-posner/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arik Posner</a>, Parker Solar Probe program scientist at NASA Headquarters, describing this mission’s significance.



Ever since the launch in 2018, Parker’s main goal has been to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona. Tomorrow’s approach, often called <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/glossary/perihelion.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perihelion</a>, marks a new milestone in that quest. The probe moves at speeds around 430,000 miles per hour, faster than any other spacecraft. At such high velocity, it can swing around our star without getting swallowed. Even so, mission managers won’t receive immediate updates once Parker hits its closest point because signals cannot travel through the intense solar environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-and-lasting-protection">Extreme heat and lasting protection</h2>



What sets Parker apart is its resilient heat shield. This 4.5-inch-thick carbon-composite barrier enables the spacecraft’s instruments to continue functioning in an environment where temperatures can reach roughly 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the harsh surroundings, the precious science instruments remain near room temperature, thanks to expert engineering by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (<a href="https://parkersolarprobe.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">APL</a>).



During every close approach, Parker is pelted by gusts of solar wind and bathed in radiation. Still, it keeps sending back readings about magnetic fields, <a href="https://www.plasmacoalition.org/plasma_writeups/solar_plasmas.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plasma</a> behavior, and energetic <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/phenomena/solar-radiation-storm#:~:text=Solar%20radiation%20storms%20occur%20when,of%20the%20speed%20of%20light." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a>. The probe’s data illuminates reasons behind the corona’s blazing heat, which can climb into the millions of degrees, significantly hotter than the visible surface of the Sun. Such puzzling behavior has fascinated scientists for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chasing-the-solar-wind-s-origins">Chasing the solar wind’s origins</h2>



Solar wind, a stream of charged particles flowing away from the Sun at speeds topping one million miles per hour, plays a major role in <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/sun/what-is-the-solar-wind/">space weather</a>. 



By skimming through the corona, Parker records fresh evidence of how these particles speed up and scatter across the solar system. The answers may help experts forecast disturbances that affect satellites and astronaut safety. Surges of these charged particles can disable communication systems or even disrupt power grids on Earth.



For researchers, big questions remain. How does the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/sun/what-is-the-solar-wind/">solar wind</a> pick up its pace so dramatically? Is there a specific region in the corona that triggers bursts of fast-moving particles? 



Parker’s measurements bring us closer to unraveling these mysteries. Officials at NASA say that by tomorrow’s approach, new layers of data will help them see patterns not possible to detect from a greater distance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-probe-and-the-sun-s-active-cycle">Solar probe and the Sun's active cycle</h2>



The Sun moves through an 11-year activity cycle. Right now, it is in an active phase, meaning increased sunspots, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secondary-peak-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storm-expected-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar flares</a>, and <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/phenomena/coronal-mass-ejections" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a>. 



Researchers are tracking not only Parker’s journey but also the Sun’s changing patterns. Sometimes these outbursts interact with Earth’s magnetosphere and spark colorful auroras, even in places unused to such displays. And although most solar weather events are harmless for life on Earth, severe storms can interfere with GPS systems or satellites.



This is why Parker’s findings are so relevant. Gaining a better understanding of how energetic solar events begin could lead to timelier warnings, giving operators on Earth a heads-up to power down sensitive instruments or adjust satellite orbits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paying-tribute-to-eugene-parker">Paying tribute to Eugene Parker</h2>



In 2017, NASA renamed the probe after <a href="https://news.uchicago.edu/story/eugene-parker-legendary-figure-solar-science-and-namesake-parker-solar-probe-1927-2022">Dr. Eugene N. Parker</a>, the first person to predict the solar wind in the 1950s. He introduced key ideas about how stars interact with their surroundings. The mission’s name honors his influential work. Dr. Parker passed away in 2022, but his legacy continues. 



The data this spacecraft is sending back not only expands knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracing-solar-wind-directly-to-its-source-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar physics</a> but also shows how correct Dr. Parker’s early theories were.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-setting-solar-probe-flyby">Record-setting Solar Probe flyby</h2>



Mission operations expect Parker to reach perihelion at 6:53 a.m. EST on December 24. 



At that time, the spacecraft will run autonomously, and engineers at APL will wait until December 27 for a beacon tone confirming a safe passage around the Sun. “No human-made object has ever passed this close to a star, so Parker will truly be returning data from uncharted territory. We’re excited to hear back from the spacecraft when it swings back around the Sun,” explained <a href="https://parkersolarprobe.jhuapl.edu/News-Center/Show-Article.php?articleID=205" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nick Pinkine</a>, Parker Solar Probe mission operations manager. 



When that update arrives, scientists will study Parker’s recent measurements to identify potential clues about solar wind origins and coronal heating. Each orbit is another chance to witness the scorching conditions near our star. At the same time, the probe helps refine predictions about solar eruptions that might drive future storms toward Earth.



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



Beyond the scientific breakthroughs, Parker’s success can have practical benefits for technology we rely on every day. Our society depends on GPS signals and stable power systems, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major solar events</a> can disrupt both. By learning how to anticipate strong solar winds or flares, experts might one day keep satellites out of harm’s way or shield power grids from unexpected surges.



Tomorrow’s close approach continues a streak of remarkable achievements for NASA. As Parker zips through the corona, it gathers observations that no other mission could obtain. The craft appears ready for another sizzling pass, thanks to the robust thermal design and careful planning. 



Whether it’s helping forecast solar tempers or refining our knowledge of basic astrophysical processes, Parker remains on track to change the way we see the Sun.



Learn more about <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/parker-solar-probe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Parker Solar Probe here...</a>



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Spacecraft flew through the Sun's atmosphere today for the first time ever

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to achieve its most dangerous feat yet tomorrow, December 24, 2024. After a six-year journey of spiraling closer to the star at the heart of our solar system, the spacecraft is expected to come within 3.8 million miles of the Sun’s surface. This tiny distance in cosmic terms lets scientists capture a new type of information, revealing secrets about solar winds, extreme heat, and magnetic fields. Solar probe on the Sun's doorstep Engineers have spent years carefully adjusting Parker’s flight path...

The James Webb Space Telescope captured a stunning image of nebula N79, which is inside an H II region of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), a neighboring galaxy to our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nebula-N79_star-cluster-formation_Webb_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This image</a>, focused on the nebula known as N79, offers a unique view into a massive star-forming complex. 



N79, spanning an impressive 1630 light-years, is located in the LMC's largely uncharted southwest region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nebula-n79-stellar-nursery-in-great-detail">Nebula N79: Stellar nursery in great detail </h2>



Interestingly, N79 is often compared to a younger version of the famed <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/enduring-stellar-lifecycle-30-doradus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30 Doradus</a>, also known as the Tarantula Nebula, another subject of Webb’s recent observations. 



In addition, N79 has been found to possess a star formation efficiency twice that of 30 Doradus over the past 500,000 years. This fact alone makes N79 a significant area of study for astronomers.



The image from <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> zeroes in on one of the three giant molecular cloud complexes within N79, specifically the southern complex, affectionately termed N79 South (or S1 for simplicity). 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-starburst-enigma">The starburst enigma</h2>



One of the most striking features in this image is the ‘starburst’ pattern emanating from this bright object. These are diffraction spikes, a common artifact in telescopes that use mirrors, such as Webb. 



In this case, the hexagonal symmetry of Webb's 18 primary mirror segments gives rise to six prominent starburst spikes.



It’s important to note that these patterns are particularly noticeable around very bright, compact objects. In contrast, galaxies, which appear smaller and are more diffused, do not exhibit such patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-chemistry-of-nebula-n79">Cosmic chemistry of Nebula N79</h2>



The capabilities of Webb’s Mid-InfraRed Instrument (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>) are on full display in this image. At the longer wavelengths MIRI captures, the glowing gas and dust of N79 are vividly revealed. 



Mid-infrared light penetrates deeper into the clouds, unlike shorter wavelengths, which are more likely to be absorbed or scattered by dust. 



This view even allows us to see some protostars still embedded within the nebula.



The study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/stellar-nursery-g35-2-0-7n-is-a-hotbed-of-massive-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star-forming regions</a> like N79 is crucial for astronomers. Their chemical composition bears a striking resemblance to that of the enormous star-forming regions that were prevalent when the Universe was just a few billion years old, during the peak of star formation. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, in comparison, does not match the fervent star-producing pace of N79 and has a different chemical makeup.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-continues-to-peel-back-the-layers">Webb continues to peel back the layers</h2>



The Webb telescope is enabling astronomers to compare the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jwst-celebrates-one-year-anniversary-with-stunning-new-image-of-rho-ophiuchi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> in N79 with the activity observed in distant galaxies from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early Universe</a>. 



This comparison is invaluable in understanding the evolution of stars and galaxies over cosmic time.



These observations of N79 are part of a broader Webb program aimed at studying the evolution of circumstellar discs and envelopes of forming stars. 



This program focuses on a wide range of mass and different evolutionary stages. 



Webb’s sensitivity is expected to allow scientists to detect, for the first time, the planet-forming dust discs around stars of similar mass to our Sun, even at the great distances of the LMC.



Through images like these, the Webb Telescope continues to unlock the secrets of the cosmos, providing a window into the intricate processes of star formation and the evolution of galaxies. 



As we gaze upon N79, we are not just seeing a distant nebula; we are witnessing the very processes that shaped our Universe.



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Starburst spikes seen exploding from nebula N79 are 1630 light-years long

The James Webb Space Telescope captured a stunning image of...

IDL TIFF file

NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, a marvel of modern space exploration, has recently concluded its groundbreaking mission on the Red Planet. 



Initially intended for a brief technology demonstration, Ingenuity exceeded all expectations, transforming the realm of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/38-ready-to-drop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interplanetary aviation</a> and marking a historic chapter in space exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingenuity-helicopter-exceeds-all-expectations">Ingenuity helicopter exceeds all expectations</h2>



Ingenuity's journey began as a modest experiment designed for up to five test flights over 30 days. However, it surpassed these goals significantly, operating for nearly three years and completing 72 flights, covering a distance 14 times greater than anticipated. 



This impressive feat amounted to over two hours of total flight time, a testament to the helicopter's resilience and the team's ingenuity.



“The historic journey of Ingenuity, the first aircraft on another planet, has come to end,” said NASA <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/people/nasa-administrator-bill-nelson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Administrator Bill Nelson</a>. 



“That remarkable helicopter flew higher and farther than we ever imagined and helped NASA do what we do best -- make the impossible, possible. Through missions like Ingenuity, NASA is paving the way for future flight in our solar system and smarter, safer human exploration to Mars and beyond," Nelson concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributions-and-challenges">Contributions and challenges</h2>



After landing on Mars on February 18, 2021, Ingenuity made its <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/39-ingenuitys-first-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maiden flight</a> on April 19, demonstrating powered, controlled flight in the Martian atmosphere was possible. 



Following its initial success, Ingenuity embarked on a new role as an <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/05-ingenuity-flying-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerial scout</a> for the Perseverance rover's science team and drivers, expanding the boundaries of space exploration.



Throughout its mission, Ingenuity faced and overcame numerous challenges. It was upgraded to autonomously select landing sites, navigated through dust storms, survived a harsh Martian winter, and even dealt with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/8-ingenuitys-solar-panel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dead sensor</a>. 



Despite these obstacles, the helicopter executed three emergency landings and operated from 48 different airfields.



“At NASA JPL, innovation is at the heart of what we do,” said Laurie Leshin, director, NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California. 



“Ingenuity is an exemplar of the way we push the boundaries of what’s possible every day. I’m incredibly proud of our team behind this historic technological achievement and eager to see what they’ll invent next," Leshin extolled.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingenuity-helicopter-s-final-flight">Ingenuity helicopter's final flight</h2>



Ingenuity's last flight occurred on January 18, intended as a short vertical flight. It successfully achieved a maximum altitude of 40 feet and hovered for 4.5 seconds before descending. 



However, the helicopter faced difficulties just 3 feet above the surface, losing contact with the Perseverance rover, which relayed communications. 



Later analysis revealed damage to one of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/16-ingenuitys-rotors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotor blades</a>, marking the end of its flight capabilities.



Despite these challenges, Ingenuity's mission is a resounding success. Over almost 1,000 Martian days, the helicopter achieved feats well beyond its original scope. 



The team now focuses on downloading the remaining data and imagery from Ingenuity's onboard memory.



“It’s humbling Ingenuity not only carries onboard a <a href="https://images.nasa.gov/details/PIA24291">swatch</a> from the original Wright Flyer, but also this helicopter followed in its footsteps and proved flight is possible on another world,” said Ingenuity’s project manager, <a href="https://www-robotics.jpl.nasa.gov/who-we-are/people/theodore_tzanetos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teddy Tzanetos</a> of NASA JPL. 



“The Mars helicopter would have never flown once, much less 72 times, if it were not for the passion and dedication of the Ingenuity and Perseverance teams. History’s first Mars helicopter will leave behind an indelible mark on the future of space exploration and will inspire fleets of aircraft on Mars -- and other worlds -- for decades to come," Tzanetos concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-space-exploration">New era in space exploration</h2>



In summary, NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter has rewritten the rules of interplanetary aviation while setting a new standard for innovation and resilience in space exploration. 



Its remarkable achievements, from demonstrating powered flight on another planet to overcoming unprecedented challenges, stand as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of the unknown. 



As we reflect on this truly groundbreaking mission, Ingenuity leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future explorations, ensuring its pioneering spirit continues to soar across the Martian skies and beyond, shaping the future of space travel for generations to come.



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Mars Ingenuity, the first helicopter on the Red Planet, ends mission after 3 years

NASA's Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, a marvel of modern space exploration,...

Amazing,Beautiful,Nature,Deep,Green,Of,Virgin,Rain,Forest,Of

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species diversity in European forests and their resilience against storms. 



This study, conducted by the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>), marks a significant step in understanding how biodiversity impacts forest sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-as-a-storm-shield">Diversity as a storm shield</h2>



The INRAE research team discovered that forests with a wide variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-trees-use-social-distancing-to-promote-forest-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a>, especially those dominated by slow-growing, high-density wood species like oaks, show greater resistance to storm damage. 



This resilience is especially critical under extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. 



The Mediterranean region's hot-dry climate and the cold-wet climate of northern Scandinavia were highlighted as areas where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-fungi-determine-the-gradient-of-forest-diversity-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with higher tree diversity show remarkable endurance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-storms-and-tree-diversity">Studying storms and tree diversity</h2>



To reach these conclusions, the team employed advanced simulations, modeling the response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-forest-biodiversity-has-massive-potential-for-carbon-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> with varying characteristics to storm damage. 



This approach allowed them to create a comprehensive picture of how different forest compositions, from the species-rich to the monocultural, respond to and recover from severe windstorms.



Europe's recent history of frequent and intense windstorms poses a growing threat to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-makes-forests-more-productive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, which play a vital role in providing habitat, storing carbon, and supplying timber. 



The findings of this study offer practical insights into how managing tree diversity can help forests adapt to mitigate the impacts of these increasing storm threats.



Dr. Julien Barrere, the lead author of the study from INRAE, emphasizes the study's implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planting-forests-with-diverse-tree-species-increases-likelihood-of-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest management</a> practices. 



He points out that while monocultures of fast-growing species like pine might be economically advantageous, they are more prone to storm damage. 



"In a context of increasing storm losses across the continent, our study therefore argues for forest management practices that promote diversity and slow-growing tree species such as oak,” he explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-forest-dynamics">Modeling forest dynamics</h2>



The research team's innovative approach involved simulating the dynamics of hundreds of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diverse-forests-can-shut-down-non-native-tree-invasions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a> post-storm, using data from over 91,000 real forest plots across Europe. 



This model encompassed varying the climatic conditions, as well as the levels of tree diversity in forests. 



Dr. Barrere elaborates, “This allowed us to quantify the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-shaped-by-climate-change-for-21000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest composition</a> and resilience to storm disturbance, and how this relationship changes along the European climatic gradient.”



While the model provides valuable insights, Dr. Barrere cautions that fieldwork is necessary to fully validate the findings. 



He acknowledges the limitations of modeling studies, which, despite being essential for understanding long-term forest dynamics, must be complemented by empirical field studies.



In summary, this research by INRAE offers a new perspective on forest management in Europe, highlighting the importance of diversity and specific species selection in enhancing forest resilience. 



As the world braces for more frequent and severe weather events, these findings could be pivotal in shaping future forest management strategies, ensuring the longevity and health of these crucial ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1365-2435.14489" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Functional Ecology</a>.



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Tree diversity makes forests more resilient against storms

Recent research has unveiled a crucial link between tree species...

In a study that challenges our understanding of dinosaur evolution, researchers have uncovered a remarkable use of feathers in small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-self-regulated-their-body-temperature/">dinosaurs</a>.&nbsp;



The study suggests that these ancient creatures, known for their omnivorous and insectivorous diets, may have used their feathered wings to startle and hunt prey. 



This discovery sheds new light on the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-flapping-wings-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathered wings</a> in dinosaurs, long before they were adapted for flight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaur-robot-nbsp-named-robopteryx">Dinosaur robot&nbsp;named Robopteryx</h2>



At the heart of this research lies an innovative approach: the creation of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Robopteryx_robot-dinosaur_credit-JINSEOK-PARK_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur robot</a> named Robopteryx. 



The robot was designed to mimic the physical characteristics of the pennaraptoran dinosaur Caudipteryx.



The researchers used Robopteryx to investigate how modern-day grasshoppers, representatives of a group that co-existed with dinosaurs, reacted to various scaring tactics.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flush-pursuit-foraging">"Flush-pursuit" foraging</h2>



The results showed that Robopteryx, with its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-bird-feathers-contain-traces-of-dinosaur-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathered</a> proto-wings and tail, effectively startled grasshoppers into fleeing. 



This supports the theory that similar strategies were used by small dinosaurs millions of years ago.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="DwticigSvi-3339145-12187" type="single"]</div>



The research team, including Jinseok Park, Hyungpil Moon, Yuong‑Nam Lee, Sang‑im Lee, and Piotr Jablonski, focused on the concept of "flush-pursuit" foraging. 



This technique, observed in modern birds like the greater roadrunner and the northern mockingbird, involves<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Robopteryx_robot-dinosaur_images_credit-JINSEOK-PARK_1m.webp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> startling prey with sudden movements</a> and contrasting feather colors, thus flushing them out into the open for capture.&nbsp;



The team proposed that proto-wings, the early form of wings seen in dinosaurs, were initially used for this hunting strategy rather than flight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-dinosaur-feathers-and-wings">Evolution of dinosaur feathers and wings</h2>



Until now, the presence of pennaceous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-evolutionary-origin-of-birds-wings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a> – necessary for flight – was confirmed only in the Pennaraptora group of dinosaurs.&nbsp;



However, these feathers first appeared on proto-wings that were not yet capable of flight, leaving scientists puzzled about their original function. 



The findings from the Robopteryx experiment offer a plausible explanation: these proto-wings were likely used as a hunting tool, providing a strategic advantage in startling and catching prey.



The researchers meticulously designed Robopteryx based on Caudipteryx, a small, two-legged predator from approximately 124 million years ago. 



They replicated several flush-pursuit display behaviors and observed the grasshoppers' reactions.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-robopteryx-and-dinosaur-feathers">Robopteryx and dinosaur feathers</h2>



The results were clear: a significant increase in the likelihood of the grasshoppers fleeing when confronted with the proto-wing displays, especially when white patches or feathers were present on the wings or tail.



The study not only supports the flush-pursuit hypothesis but also opens new avenues in understanding the evolutionary pathways of feathered dinosaurs.&nbsp;



The use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feathers-were-the-secret-of-dinosaur-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a> for hunting before their adaptation for flight suggests a complex and multi-faceted evolutionary process, highlighting the intricate relationship between physical traits and survival strategies in the ancient world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-caudipteryx-and-dinosaur-feathers">More about Caudipteryx and dinosaur feathers</h2>



As discussed above, Caudipteryx is a remarkable genus of theropod dinosaurs that stands out as a crucial link in the evolutionary chain between dinosaurs and birds. 



Unearthed in the Yixian Formation in China, this small, feathered dinosaur lived during the Early Cretaceous period, about 125 million years ago.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergence-of-dinosaur-feathers">Emergence of dinosaur feathers</h3>



Measuring about one meter in length, Caudipteryx showcases a fascinating blend of avian and reptilian features. Its body, covered in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-bright-rainbow-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a>, hints at the early stages of feather evolution. 



The feathers were not for flight but possibly served for display or temperature regulation. This finding challenges our understanding of feather evolution, suggesting that feathers initially evolved for purposes other than flight.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-characteristics-and-diet">Characteristics and diet</h3>



Possessing a beak-like structure with teeth, Caudipteryx reveals the transitional morphology between the toothed jaws of reptiles and the beaked mouths of modern birds. Its skeletal structure further illustrates this transition. 



The forelimbs, though <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-descendants-feathered-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathered</a>, were too short to support flight, indicating an evolutionary experimentation with feathered limbs.



The diet of Caudipteryx, primarily composed of plants and small animals, provides insights into the dietary adaptations of early feathered dinosaurs. 



This omnivorous diet reflects a versatile lifestyle, possibly a key factor in the survival and evolution of early birds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-more-to-learn">Still more to learn</h3>



In summary, Caudipteryx's discovery profoundly impacts our understanding of the dinosaur-bird transition. 



It serves as a vivid example of evolutionary experimentation, showcasing the gradual shift from reptilian to avian characteristics. 



By studying Caudipteryx, scientists gain invaluable insights into the complex and fascinating journey from dinosaurs to the birds we see today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50225-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.&nbsp;



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Robopteryx: Dinosaur feather secrets revealed by a robot dinosaur

In a study that challenges our understanding of dinosaur evolution,...

Young,Happy,Woman,In,Green,Field,,Evening,Light.,Blue,Sky

When discussing the "hot topic" of climate change, switching the focus to energy solutions -- how energy is supplied to how energy is consumed -- can be a more effective approach. 



Reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global carbon emissions</a> has the added benefit of improving wellbeing for all, and when push comes to shove, who doesn't want a better, happier life?



The Energy Demand Changes Induced by Technological and Social Innovations (<a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/projects/edits" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EDITS</a>) network, coordinated by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (<a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IIASA</a>), recently published a commentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of tackling climate change: the way humans <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clean-energy-transition-may-boost-job-opportunities-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consume energy</a>. 



Their insightful piece argues that a shift from focusing on energy supply to understanding and altering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-worlds-renewable-energy-capacity-will-take-a-record-leap-this-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy consumption</a> could be a more effective and beneficial approach when discussing the need to reduce carbon emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-solutions-climate-and-wellbeing">Energy solutions, climate, and wellbeing</h2>



We are in a period marked by the worsening effects of climate change, fluctuating energy markets, and geopolitical tensions. 



These factors complicate the task of policymakers in ensuring the provision of secure, clean, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-utilities-may-be-100-percent-renewable-energy-by-2060/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affordable energy</a>. 



Despite these challenges, there is a growing public support for changing our energy usage habits, which presents new opportunities.



The authors of the commentary suggest that improving how we consume energy to meet human needs could significantly reduce total energy demand by 2050. 



This reduction would make it easier to decarbonize energy supply. They refer to a ‘High-with-Low’ scenario, which envisions high wellbeing with low energy and material consumption, aligning with the targets set by the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Agreement</a>.



“There are numerous ways for us to dramatically reduce the energy we consume while improving our standards of living, the quality of our cities, and our social wellbeing. Our analysis shows this should be the ‘first best’ strategy for tackling climate change,” says senior IIASA researcher Charlie Wilson, who is one of the authors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-and-technological-transformations">Societal and technological transformations</h2>



The commentary highlights the need for societal and technological transformations that could lead to new, sustainable lifestyles. 



It's not about shifting the responsibility of climate mitigation to individuals but empowering them with the right infrastructure, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/continuous-clean-energy-scientists-are-pulling-power-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a>, and incentives.



“Placing individual level transformations at the center of solutions to drastically reduce energy consumption globally does not mean shifting the responsibility of climate mitigation to people,” says IIASA researcher and coauthor of the commentary Benigna Boza-Kiss. 



“On the contrary, it is about empowering people by providing access to the right infrastructure, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/game-changing-invention-converts-both-co2-and-plastic-waste-into-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technology</a>, and incentives. Many new cities will be built in the developing world so there is a huge opportunity to foster inclusive growth by staying clear of unsustainable practices.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-demand-side-energy-solutions">Demand-side energy solutions</h2>



Policymakers often emphasize the supply of energy. However, the EDITS network members argue that understanding and tailoring the demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bamboo-plants-shows-great-potential-to-become-the-next-big-renewable-energy-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy resources</a> is equally important. 



Demand-side solutions include policies and measures that modify demand to reduce energy and material requirements, thereby lowering GHG emissions and improving overall wellbeing.



According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/assessment-report/ar6/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sixth Assessment Report</a>, demand-side solutions could reduce GHG emissions in many sectors.



These areas include buildings, transport, retail, and industry by 40–70% by 2050. This approach offers a multi-faceted increase in wellbeing without reducing service levels.



Masahiro Sugiyama, lead author of the commentary and professor at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, notes the challenges in researching demand-side scenarios. 



“Research on ‘High-with-Low’ demand-side scenarios is challenging because scenarios have to deal with various demand-side <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-power-has-won-the-prize-to-become-earths-main-source-of-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technologies</a> as well as a wide range of cultures and social practices," said Sugiyama. 



"However, the time is ripe to kick-start a new frontier of climate change mitigation modeling and scenario research," she concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-energy-demand-scenarios">Low energy demand scenarios</h2>



While some local and national bodies, like the governments of Paris and Barcelona, are encouraging demand-side solutions, there is still a predominant focus on supply-side solutions. 



The authors argue for a greater emphasis on modeling low energy and material demand scenarios, as they minimize the trade-offs in tackling climate change.



In summary, this article emphasizes a critical shift in our approach to combating climate change and energy solutions, advocated by the EDITS network and IIASA. 



By actively transitioning our focus from how we supply energy to how we consume it, we can achieve a significant reduction in carbon emissions while simultaneously enhancing global wellbeing. 



This strategic change underscores the power of rethinking and transforming our energy usage habits, presenting a more sustainable and effective solution in our ongoing battle against climate change.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2542435123005329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joule</a>.



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Human wellbeing is a more effective focus area when discussing energy solutions

When discussing the "hot topic" of climate change, switching the...

Luminous,Processor.,Abstract,Technological,Background,From,Blocks.quantum,Computing.,Qubit.,3d

Scientists recently achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of quantum network engineering, thanks to researchers from the University of Chicago, Argonne National Laboratory, and <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cambridge University</a>. 



This advancement centers around the innovative manipulation of diamond thin films, leading to the creation of more manageable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-with-cream-can-teach-us-a-lot-about-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> bits (qubits).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promise-and-challenges-of-quantum-bits">Promise and challenges of quantum bits</h2>



The team's technique significantly elevates the operating temperature of quantum systems, reducing the resources required for their operation. 



Alex High of the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a>, who spearheaded the study, expressed that this method greatly eases the control of qubits. 



"This technique lets you dramatically raise the operating temperature of these systems, to the point where it's much less resource-intensive to operate them," High explained.



These findings have the potential to make <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lasers-make-quantum-materials-reveal-their-hidden-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> networks more feasible in the near future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-state-of-quantum-infrastructure">Current state of quantum infrastructure</h2>



Qubits are pivotal in the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-and-machine-learning-enhance-airplane-performance-and-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computing</a> networks due to their unique properties, such as near-immunity to hacking. However, implementing them in widespread technology presents challenges. 



One major issue is the sensitivity of qubits to heat and vibrations, necessitating extremely low operational temperatures.



"Most qubits today require a special fridge the size of a room and a team of highly trained people to run it, so if you're picturing an industrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-ping-pong-game-played-by-two-atoms-controlling-photons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> network where you'd have to build one every 5 or 10 kilometers, now you're talking about quite a bit of infrastructure and labor," said High. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-quantum-networks-with-diamonds">Building quantum networks with diamonds</h2>



High's team, in collaboration with <a href="https://www.anl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argonne National Laboratory</a>, focused on enhancing the material properties of qubits. 



Group IV color centers in diamonds, a promising type of qubit, are notable for maintaining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum entanglement</a> over long periods. However, they require cooling to near absolute zero.



The team's ingenius approach involved 'stretching' the diamond's atomic structure. They achieved this by laying a thin film of diamond over hot glass. 



As the glass cools, it contracts more slowly than the diamond, stretching the diamond on a molecular level. 



This is analogous to how pavement expands or contracts with the temperature changes of the earth beneath it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-and-future-implications">Current and future implications</h2>



"The potential for quantum-based information technologies is high," said Tom Kuech, a program director in NSF's <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/dir/index.jsp?org=ENG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Directorate for Engineering</a>. 



"This project is part of NSF's continuing efforts to provide the underpinning research into the manufacturing science needed to make these approaches a technological reality."



In summary, this innovate collaborative research represents a significant leap forward in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> network engineering. 



By ingeniously 'stretching' diamond films to create more manageable qubits, the team has effectively addressed one of the major barriers in quantum computing: the need for extensive cooling infrastructure. 



This solution simplifies the control and operation of quantum bits for more practical and accessible quantum networks, bringing us closer to harnessing the full potential of quantum technologies in various fields.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.13.041037" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review X</a>.



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Diamonds bring quantum networks one step closer to reality

Scientists recently achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of...

An invasive species known as the big-headed ant is subtly but significantly altering the dynamics of a well-established ecosystem and the lions that live there, according to a new study from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a>.



The research, led by Professor Todd Palmer, reveals that this seemingly inconspicuous ant is upending the hunting patterns of one of the world's most formidable predators, the African <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lions-are-dangling-precariously-on-the-brink-of-extinction-immediate-action-is-needed/">lion</a>, particularly in its pursuit of zebra prey.



The study is a culmination of over three decades of rigorous research. The team used a combination of hidden camera traps, collared lions tracked by satellites, and statistical modeling.&nbsp;



The experts have shed new light on the complex interplay among different species - ants, trees, elephants, lions, zebras, and buffaloes - in the <a href="https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ol Pejeta Nature Conservancy</a> in central Kenya.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mutually-beneficial-relationship">Mutually beneficial relationship</h2>



Historically, the acacia trees in this region have enjoyed protection from leaf-eating animals, courtesy of a mutually beneficial relationship with a native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/there-are-2-5-million-ants-for-each-human-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ant species</a> that nests in the trees' bulbous thorns. 



These ants fiercely guard the trees against large herbivores such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-elephant-day-understanding-celebrating-and-protecting-earths-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-world-giraffe-day-celebrate-the-worlds-tallest-animal-on-the-earths-longest-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">giraffes</a> -- a phenomenon known as mutualism. 



Earlier studies by Palmer in the early 2000s began unraveling the complexities of this symbiosis. The experts discovered the ants' role in stabilizing tree cover, thus enabling acacia trees to thrive amidst numerous large plant-eating mammals.



“Much to our surprise, we found that these little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-build-higher-nests-when-there-are-no-visible-landmarks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> serve as incredibly strong defenders and were essentially stabilizing the tree cover in these landscapes, making it possible for the acacia trees to persist in a place with so many big plant-eating mammals,” said Professor Palmer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-lions-and-ecosystems">Ants, lions, and ecosystems</h2>



However, the introduction of the invasive big-headed ants has triggered a cascade of ecological consequences. 



Unlike their native counterparts, these invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-have-a-communications-system-that-closely-resembles-mental-telepathy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> do not defend the acacia trees from larger herbivores. 



This invasion has led to a significant reduction in tree cover, as elephants, no longer deterred by ant protectors, freely feed on the acacias. 



The sparse tree cover impairs the lions' ability to effectively ambush <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zebra-stripes-control-body-temperature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zebras</a>, their preferred prey, as they rely heavily on the camouflage and strategic advantage provided by dense vegetation.



“These tiny invaders are cryptically pulling on the ties that bind an African ecosystem together, determining who is eaten and where,” said Professor Palmer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-transformative-force">A transformative force</h2>



The invasion of big-headed ants, which occurred around 15 years ago, went largely unnoticed due to their non-aggressive nature towards larger animals, including humans. 



However, their presence is now recognized as a transformative force reshaping the landscape with far-reaching implications.



“Oftentimes, we find it’s the little things that rule the world,” said Palmer. "These tiny invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matabele-ants-produce-antibiotics-to-treat-wounded-nestmates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> showed up maybe 15 years ago, and none of us noticed because they aren’t aggressive toward big critters, including people. We now see they are transforming landscapes in very subtle ways but with devastating effects.”



Adapting to these environmental changes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-lion-day-celebrating-the-king-of-the-jungle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lions</a> have begun shifting their hunting focus towards buffalo, a more challenging and formidable prey given their larger size and tendency to move in groups. 



This shift in the lions' hunting strategy raises concerns and curiosity about the potential long-term ecological consequences.



“Nature is clever, and critters like lions tend to find solutions to the problems they face, but we don’t yet know what could result from this profound switch in the lions’ hunting strategy. We are keenly interested in following up on this story," said Professor Palmer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-lions-from-ants">Protecting lions from ants</h2>



For the investigation, Professor Palmer collaborated with Jake Goheen from the <a href="https://www.uwyo.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wyoming</a>, Corinna Riginos from The Nature Conservancy, and Douglas Kamaru of the University of Wyoming.



The team plans to explore possible interventions to mitigate the loss of tree cover. The interventions could include temporary fencing to protect trees from large herbivores.



“These ants are everywhere, especially in the tropics and subtropics. You can find them in your backyard in Florida, and it’s people who are moving them around,” said Professor Palmer. 



“We are working with land managers to investigate interventions, including temporarily fencing out large herbivores, to minimize the impact of ant invaders on tree populations.”



In an era where advanced technologies like AI-powered data collection are gaining prominence, Professor Palmer emphasized the enduring value of traditional, field-based research.&nbsp;



“There are a lot of new tools involving big data approaches and artificial intelligence that are available today, but this study was born of driving around in Land Rovers in the mud for 30 years.”



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg1464" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, and was supported by the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>. 



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Tiny ants have a big impact on the hunting behavior of lions

An invasive species known as the big-headed ant is subtly...

A new study from <a href="https://uthscsa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UT Health San Antonio</a> has made a significant discovery in the early detection of dementia. The research suggests that thinning of the cortical gray matter in the brain could be a key biomarker for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-owners-are-much-less-likely-to-develop-dementia/">dementia</a> risk that is detectable 5 to 10 years before symptoms manifest.



The experts used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to analyze brain changes among participants from the Framingham Heart Study in Massachusetts and a diverse cohort from California.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cortical-gray-matter-nbsp">Cortical gray matter&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers meticulously examined data from 1,500 individuals, all around the ages of 70 to 74, tracking changes in their brain structure over a decade.&nbsp;



The focus was on the cortical gray matter, a critical area of the brain that's known to be affected in various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.



"The big interest in this paper is that, if we can replicate it in additional samples, cortical gray matter thickness will be a marker we can use to identify people at high risk of dementia," explained study lead author Dr. Claudia Satizabal.



"By detecting the disease early, we are in a better time window for therapeutic interventions and lifestyle modifications, and to do better tracking of brain health to decrease individuals' progression to dementia."



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



The researchers noted that while dementias can affect different brain regions, Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia impact the cortex. The experts compared participants with and without dementia at the time of MRI.



Study co-author Dr. Sudha Seshadri is the director of the Glenn Biggs Institute at UT Health San Antonio and senior investigator with the Framingham Heart Study.



"We went back and examined the brain MRIs done 10 years earlier, and then we mixed them up to see if we could discern a pattern that reliably distinguished those who later developed dementia from those who did not," said Dr. Seshadri.



"This kind of study is only possible when you have longitudinal follow-up over many years as we did at Framingham and as we are building in San Antonio."



"The people who had the research MRI scans while they were well and kept coming back to be studied are the selfless heroes who make such valuable discoveries, such prediction tools possible."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consistent-findings">Consistent findings</h2>



A remarkable aspect of this study is its consistency across different racial and ethnic groups. Dr. Satizabal pointed out that early dementia detection could revolutionize patient care and clinical trials.&nbsp;



The results consistently showed that thicker ribbons correlated with better outcomes and thinner ribbons with worse outcomes.



"Although more studies are needed to validate this biomarker, we're off to a good start," said Dr. Satizabal. "The relationship between thinning and dementia risk behaved the same way in different races and ethnic groups."



According to Dr. Seshadri, clinical trial researchers could use the thinning biomarker to minimize cost by selecting participants who haven't yet developed any disease but are on track for it.&nbsp;



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



Dr. Satizabal said the team plans to explore risk factors that may be related to the thinning, including cardiovascular risk factors, diet, genetics and exposure to environmental pollutants.



"We looked at APOE4, which is a main genetic factor related to dementia, and it was not related to gray matter thickness at all," said Dr. Satizabal.



"We think this is good, because if thickness is not genetically determined, then there are modifiable factors such as diet and exercise that can influence it."



The study is published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/alz.13600" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's &amp; Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association</a>.



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Dementia detection may be possible years before symptoms

A new study from UT Health San Antonio has made...

Florida,Manatee,From,The,Springs,In,Florida.

Manatees, often known for their immense appetites and extended feeding times, face a constant struggle for survival as an endangered species. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-manatee-evolution-over-47-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gentle marine mammals</a>, spending up to eight hours a day foraging in shallow waters, are highly susceptible to environmental changes and other threats. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-counting-endangered-manatees-isn-t-easy">Counting endangered manatees isn't easy</h2>



Given their vulnerability, accurately assessing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boat-strikes-are-a-growing-threat-to-manatees-in-belize/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manatee populations</a> is crucial, particularly for formulating protective measures for these creatures against boating and diving activities. However, counting manatees presents significant challenges.



One of the primary difficulties in manatee counting stems from their social nature. Manatees typically congregate in groups, making it hard to count them accurately from the water's surface. 



Smaller <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-restoration-could-help-save-starving-manatees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manatees</a> are often obscured by larger ones, and reflections on the water further complicate the task, sometimes rendering them invisible or leading to their misidentification as inanimate objects like rocks or branches.



Traditionally, aerial surveys have been employed in some regions to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-groups-sue-the-epa-over-manatee-deaths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manatee populations</a>. This method, while useful, is both time-consuming and expensive. 



Moreover, its accuracy heavily depends on external factors like weather conditions and the time of day. In light of these limitations, researchers have been seeking more efficient and cost-effective alternatives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-meets-marine-biology">AI meets marine biology</h2>



In a pioneering technological development, researchers supported by the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Science Foundation</a> at <a href="https://www.fau.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> have introduced an innovative approach. 



Utilizing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-can-more-accurately-predict-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep learning</a>-based crowd counting technique, they have successfully automated the process of counting manatees. 



This method leverages images captured from CCTV cameras, offering a real-time population count and alerting ecologists to potential threats.



This new AI technique represents a significant advancement in addressing the technical challenges of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-monitor-biodiversity-through-animal-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">counting animals</a> in complex environments. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-conservation-with-shared-data">Collaborative conservation with shared data</h2>



By analyzing surveillance video footage captured at the water's surface, researchers can now identify manatee densities and calculate their numbers more accurately. 



They achieve this by using a special design that matches the unique shape of manatees, transforming these images into customized density maps specifically tailored for manatee counting through AI <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-could-help-save-mangrove-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">machine learning</a>.



Furthermore, in an effort to validate their method and foster further research, the team has developed a comprehensive manatee counting dataset. 



This dataset, which is <a href="https://github.com/yeyimilk/deep-learning-for-manatee-counting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">published on GitHub</a>, is accessible to the public, paving the way for wider application and collaboration in the field of marine conservation.



In summary, this research offers potential new ways to aid endangered species like manatees, and also signify a pivotal moment in wildlife conservation technology. 



Through such innovative approaches, the protection and preservation of vulnerable species become more effective, ensuring a brighter future for these majestic creatures of the sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-offers-new-hope-for-endangered-manatees">AI offers new hope for endangered manatees</h2>



As discussed above, manatees, often referred to as sea cows, capture the hearts of marine enthusiasts and conservationists alike. 



These serene mammals, gliding gracefully through coastal waters and rivers, play a crucial role in their ecosystems.



Manatees belong to the Sirenia order, sharing this group with the less-known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dugongs-declared-functionally-extinct-in-china/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dugongs</a>. They have a distinct appearance: large, gray, and often bearing algae on their thick skin. 



Their paddle-like tails and flippers exemplify their adaptation to aquatic life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-habitat">Diet and habitat</h3>



Primarily herbivores, manatees spend much of their time feeding on a variety of water plants. This feeding habit is vital for maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, as it helps control the growth of vegetation. 



They inhabit warm waters, primarily found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, and coastal areas.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-and-conservation">Threats and conservation</h3>



Despite their size, manatees face numerous threats. Collisions with boats, loss of habitat, and climate change pose significant risks to their survival. 



As a result, conservation efforts have become increasingly important. Organizations worldwide are working to protect their habitats, enforce boat speed regulations, and raise public awareness about these gentle creatures.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endangered-manatees-humans-and-the-future">Endangered manatees, humans and the future</h3>



Humans have a unique relationship with manatees, often drawn to their peaceful demeanor. In some regions, they have become a significant tourist attraction, bringing people closer to nature and fostering a sense of stewardship for the environment.



The future of manatees hinges on effective conservation strategies and public awareness. By understanding these gentle giants and the challenges they face, we can work towards a future where manatees thrive in their natural habitats, continuing to enchant and remind us of the delicate balance within our marine ecosystems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-45507-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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AI is now at the forefront of saving endangered manatees, the cows of the sea

Manatees, often known for their immense appetites and extended feeding...

A,Stark,Image,Of,A,Melting,Ice,Cap,With,Its

Recent developments have led to a significant gap in our understanding of the Arctic's climate change. With the cessation of data sharing from Russian Arctic research stations following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a new study highlights the growing bias in our perception of climate change in this critical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/will-the-arctic-become-a-battleground-for-resource-extraction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic region</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-russian-data">Importance of Russian data</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-arctic-dipole-the-atmospheric-pattern-shaping-our-future-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Arctic</a>, undergoing rapid changes, has been closely monitored by a network of research stations. Among these, 21 Russian stations played a crucial role by contributing data to <a href="https://eu-interact.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INTERACT</a>, an international consortium of Arctic countries. 



The unique geographical positioning of these stations in Siberia's boreal forests provided invaluable insights, different from the data gathered in Greenland, Svalbard, and parts of Northern Canada.



Dr. Efrén López-Blanco of <a href="https://international.au.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, a leading researcher in the study, emphasizes the severity of this data gap. 



"Suddenly, we're missing data from half of the Arctic's landmass. This lack of information from the Russian stations significantly undermines our ability to track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/additional-heat-is-being-transferred-to-the-arctic-ocean-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic changes</a>," he notes. 



López-Blanco's concern is echoed by his colleague, Professor Niels Martin Schmidt, who points out that the exclusion of Russian data, particularly from the vast taiga forests, limits our understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-could-speed-up-global-2c-temperature-rise-by-eight-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic ecosystem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-cycle-disruption-harms-arctic-climate">Carbon cycle disruption harms Arctic climate</h2>



Dr. López-Blanco further explains, "Half of the Russian research stations are located in the boreal zone, a critical area for carbon uptake. This region plays a pivotal role in the Arctic climate system by accumulating biomass and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-soil-plays-a-major-role-in-fighting-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil organic carbon</a>. Excluding these stations increases our bias."



This data gap is not just a regional issue. "The increasing bias in data from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-arctic-summers-could-be-the-new-normal-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic affects</a> our global understanding of climate change," Dr. López-Blanco asserts. 



The absence of comprehensive data could hinder our ability to track global ecological responses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-amplification-is-destabilizing-the-delicate-balance-of-the-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, such as permafrost degradation, shifts in vegetation, and carbon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-arctic-glaciers-are-releasing-a-new-source-of-potent-methane-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>.



To mitigate this data gap, Dr. López-Blanco suggests enhancing existing research infrastructure and establishing new stations in northern Scandinavia and Canada. 



"While we can identify locations with similar conditions to those missing in Russia, the financial implications are substantial. The decision rests with funding agencies, policymakers, and decision planners," he states.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-climate-change-data-repercussions">Arctic climate change data repercussions</h2>



Dr. López-Blanco warns of the broader implications from the lack of data that scientists are able to obtain about the progress of climate change in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blowing-snow-plays-an-important-role-in-arctic-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a> and its changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-geese-have-a-large-impact-on-arctic-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.



"The bias introduced by excluding Russian research stations is comparable to the anticipated climate-induced shifts by the end of the century. Our diminished ability to track and detect climate changes could impact the solutions we develop to mitigate global climate change effects."



In summary, the discontinuation of data sharing from Russian Arctic research stations presents a significant challenge to climate change research. 



The international scientific community faces the task of overcoming this hurdle to maintain a comprehensive understanding of global climate dynamics. 



The decisions made in the wake of this development will shape our approach to addressing the challenges of climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-climate-change-a-call-to-action">Arctic climate change: A call to action</h2>



In the face of global climate change, the Arctic emerges as one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth. 



As discussed above, this dramatic change is a clear and present signal of the widespread impact of human-induced climate alterations.



The most visible indicator of Arctic warming is the melting of sea ice and glaciers. This melting contributes significantly to rising sea levels, posing a threat to coastal communities worldwide. 



As the ice recedes, it exposes dark ocean waters that absorb more sunlight, further accelerating the warming process in a feedback loop with profound global implications.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disrupting-wildlife-and-indigenous-communities">Disrupting wildlife and indigenous communities</h3>



The changing Arctic climate is drastically affecting the region's wildlife. Species like polar bears and seals, dependent on sea ice for hunting and breeding, are struggling to adapt to their rapidly changing habitat. 



Indigenous communities, whose lifestyles and cultures are intertwined with the Arctic environment, face unprecedented challenges as they grapple with these ecological shifts.



The effects of Arctic warming extend beyond the region. Changes in the Arctic climate influence global weather patterns, contributing to more extreme weather events like heatwaves, cold spells, and intense storms. 



Understanding these connections is crucial for predicting and preparing for climate impacts worldwide.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-responsibility">A global responsibility</h3>



The situation in the Arctic serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global climate action. 



Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and protecting and restoring natural ecosystems are critical steps in slowing the pace of climate change and mitigating its impacts.



The Arctic's plight is not a solitary issue but a global one, demanding collective action. 



It underscores the interconnectedness of our planet's ecosystems and the shared responsibility we hold in safeguarding our environment for future generations. 



Addressing Arctic climate change is a critical part of the global fight against climate change.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-023-01903-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Tracking Arctic climate change is much more difficult since Ukraine war began

Recent developments have led to a significant gap in our...

Mobile,Phone,Personal,Data,And,Cyber,Security,Threat,Concept.,Cellphone

In the dynamic world of digital security, a breakthrough from computer science researchers offers new insights into protecting online accounts from takeover attacks. 



As mobile devices evolve into complex ecosystems of software and apps, the risk of such attacks increases, with potentially severe consequences for users.



“The ruse of looking over someone’s shoulder to find out their PIN is well known," explains Dr. Luca Arnaboldi of the University of Birmingham's <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/computer-science/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Computer Science</a>.



"However, the end game for the attacker is to gain access to the Apps, which store a wealth of personal information and can provide access to accounts such as Amazon, Google, X, Apple Pay, and even bank accounts," Arnaboldi explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-model-to-prevent-takeover-attacks">Creating a model to prevent takeover attacks</h2>



To combat these threats, Dr. Arnaboldi collaborated with Professor David Aspinall from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>, Dr. Christina Kolb from the <a href="https://www.utwente.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Twente</a>, and Dr. Sasa Radomirovic from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/">University of Surrey</a>. 



Their objective was to understand and prevent such attacks by adopting the mindset of a hacker, who often combines smaller tactical steps into a complex assault.



Previously, security vulnerabilities were studied using 'account access graphs', demonstrating how phones, SIM cards, apps, and security features interconnect. 



However, these graphs fell short in modeling account takeovers, where an attacker might, for instance, transfer a SIM card to another device, gaining access to SMS-driven password <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-break-internet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recovery methods</a>.



Addressing this gap, the researchers developed a new model to understand how account access changes when devices, SIM cards, or Apps are disconnected from the ecosystem. 



Their innovative approach utilizes formal logic, a tool used by mathematicians and philosophers, to capture the decision-making process of a hacker with access to a mobile phone and its PIN.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-theory-to-real-world-application">From theory to real-world application</h2>



This research offers valuable insights for device manufacturers and app developers to catalog vulnerabilities and comprehend complex hacking strategies. 



It also includes an analysis of claims from a Wall Street Journal report about potential attack strategies on iPhones and Android devices. 



The research found that Android's connection to a Google account provides some protection against these attacks and proposed a security enhancement for iPhones.



“The results of our simulations showed the attack strategies used by iPhone hackers to access Apple Pay could not be used to access Android Pay on Android, due to security features on the Google account," Dr. Arnaboldi said.



"The simulations also suggested a security fix for iPhone -- requiring the use of a previous password as well as a pin, a simple choice that most users would welcome.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-takeover-attacks-in-the-future">Preventing takeover attacks in the future</h2>



Following this, Apple implemented a fix, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-computer-that-operates-just-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhancing protection</a> for iPhone users. Further testing on various devices revealed vulnerabilities specific to manufacturer accounts, despite the safety of Google accounts. 



Additionally, personal experiments by the researchers uncovered unexpected security gaps, like compromised security through a shared iCloud account, despite individual robust security measures.



Currently, Dr. Arnaboldi is applying this important research in his academic consultancy, working with major corporations and internet-based companies to fortify their defenses against hacking. 



In summary, the pioneering research led by Dr. Luca Arnaboldi and his team marks a significant advancement in cybersecurity, offering a novel approach to understanding and preventing account takeover attacks. 



This work exposes the intricate tactics of hackers while underscoring the need for continuous innovation in digital security. 



As Dr. Arnaboldi applies these insights in his consultancy, his contributions are shaping a safer digital future, highlighting the critical importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving battle against cyber threats.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-51479-1_23" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the 28th European Symposium on Research in Computer Security (ESORICS 23)</a>.



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Mobile phone 'account takeover' scams have become a major concern

In the dynamic world of digital security, a breakthrough from...

Urban-dwelling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/darwins-finches-reveal-how-one-species-becomes-many/">finches</a> in the Galapagos Islands are demonstrating remarkable resilience against a parasitic fly that has been wreaking havoc on bird populations.



Detailed in a study by researchers at the <a href="https://uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a>, this discovery offers new insights and hope in the fight against the invasive Philornis downsi, commonly known as the avian vampire fly.



The fly is native to mainland South America and was first observed in the Galapagos in the 1950s. By 1997, the avian vampire fly was recognized as a major threat to local bird populations, particularly Darwin's finches. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-concern-nbsp">Conservation concern&nbsp;</h2>



“Almost every single study has found a significant effect of the fly on nestling survival and this fly can kill up to 100% of nestling Darwin's finches in a given year," said study co-first author Professor Sarah Knutie.&nbsp;



"These nestlings are essentially dying through exsanguination, which means that the larvae are sucking all of the blood, hence the name, avian vampire fly."



The survival of these finches, crucial to Darwin's theory of evolution, has become a major conservation concern.&nbsp;



“The fly doesn't affect all bird species in the Galapagos equally,” said Professor Knutie. “Some bird species like the Galapagos mockingbirds are better defended against the flies than Darwin's finches and we think this is because the mockingbirds are compensating for energy loss to the parasite through the parents feeding the nestlings more when they're parasitized, compared to when they're not parasitized.”



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



Professor Knutie noted that previous studies focused on finches living in natural, non-urban settings, which does not give the full picture across all finch populations.



“We know there's different food availability for animals in urban areas, so I started to wonder whether urban finches were differentially affected or maybe better defended against the flies because they had access to different food."



"These urban areas are different in so many ways, not just the food availability, but that is where I started because I knew the mockingbirds are better defended because they're able to feed their nestlings more.”



This led the researchers to explore potential variations in the impact on urban versus non-urban finch populations.



The study was conducted on San Cristobal Island, specifically in and around the city of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The researchers manipulated the presence of the parasite in both urban and non-urban nests to observe differences in nestling survival and health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urban-resilience-nbsp">Urban resilience&nbsp;</h2>



The results were striking: urban nestlings showed over six times greater survival rates when parasitized compared to their non-urban counterparts. The researchers used a transcriptomic approach to delve into the molecular mechanisms behind these differences.&nbsp;



Study co-first author Cynthia Webster conducted gene expression analysis, revealing significant differences in immune responses and dietary intake between urban and non-urban birds.



Urban birds exhibited a pro-inflammatory response likely aiding in parasite resistance, while non-urban birds seemed to mount ineffective immune responses. Additionally, urban birds appeared to have a higher protein intake, suggesting dietary differences as a factor.



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



Professor Knutie emphasized that urbanization is not a proposed solution for the Galapagos, but the study's findings could inform conservation strategies.&nbsp;



“If we can figure out whether it's the evolution of defenses, or if there is an environmental factor that's helping them out, this can help inform conservation or management strategies for other populations, so the bird populations don’t decline or go extinct," said Professor Knutie. "This gives us hope that larger populations of Darwin's finches that are affected by the fly are not entirely doomed. We're still worried about smaller populations dealing with the fly, but maybe information from our study can help them.



Professor Knutie said the next step is to figure out whether urban finches have evolved defenses, or if there's an environmental factor, such as food availability, that is helping the finches survive the flies.



“We also would love to expand the study across the islands, because there are four islands in the archipelago with permanent human resident populations and each island has a different size human population. As you can imagine, as the size of the city grows, the infrastructure to support humans grows as well. We hope to test whether the effects of urbanization on this bird/parasite interaction varies across these islands, based on kind of the degree of urbanization, to see if it's consistent."



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/gcb.17145" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Urban finches have surprising resilience against deadly vampire fly 

Urban-dwelling finches in the Galapagos Islands are demonstrating remarkable resilience...

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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

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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



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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://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

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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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 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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