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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Todd highlighted the practical applications of this knowledge. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

A major international study has unveiled new insights into how bread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wheat-prices-will-spike-as-climate-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wheat</a> played a pivotal role in transforming the ancient world, ultimately becoming the iconic crop that sustains a global population of eight billion today.



“Our findings shed new light on an iconic event in our civilization that created a new kind of agriculture and allowed humans to settle down and form societies,” said Brande Wulff, a wheat researcher at <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Abdullah University of Science and Technology</a> (KAUST) and one of the lead authors of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-global-collaboration-nbsp">Importance of global collaboration&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Cristobal Uauy, a group leader at the <a href="https://www.jic.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Innes Center</a>, said this work exemplifies the importance of global collaboration and sharing of data and seeds across countries. 



“We can achieve so much by combining resources and expertise across institutes and across international boundaries,” said Uauy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secret-of-bread-wheat-s-success-nbsp">Secret of bread wheat’s success&nbsp;</h2>



The research, conducted by the <a href="https://openwildwheat.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Wild Wheat Consortium</a> (OWWC), points to the genetic diversity of a wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-perennial-grasses-could-help-curb-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grass</a> called Aegilops tauschii as the secret to bread wheat’s success. 



Bread wheat is a hybrid of three wild grasses, containing three genomes (A, B, and D) within a single complex plant. Aegilops tauschii, an otherwise unremarkable weed, provided bread wheat with its D-genome when it hybridized with early cultivated pasta wheat in the Fertile Crescent between eight and eleven thousand years ago.



This chance hybridization near the southern Caspian Sea sparked an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bionic-leaf-agricultural-revolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bionic-leaf-agricultural-revolution/"> revolution</a>. The cultivation of bread wheat quickly spread across diverse climates and soils, as farmers eagerly adopted this dynamic new crop, known for its high gluten content that produces a more elastic and airy dough ideal for breadmaking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-spread-of-bread-wheat-nbsp">Rapid spread of bread wheat&nbsp;</h2>



The rapid spread of bread wheat across such a wide geographical range has long puzzled researchers. 



Bread wheat does not exist in the wild, and the hybridization event that introduced the D genome into the plant’s existing A and B genomes created a genetic bottleneck, significantly reducing the new species' genetic diversity compared to the surrounding wild grasses. 



Furthermore, wheat is an inbreeding species, meaning it self-pollinates, which would typically suggest that bread wheat might struggle to thrive outside its original Fertile Crescent environment. So how did it become so widely cultivated and globally dominant?



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



To solve this mystery, the international research team assembled a diversity panel of 493 unique accessions spanning the geographical range of Aegilops tauschii, from northwestern Turkey to eastern China.&nbsp;



From this panel, the researchers selected 46 accessions that reflected the species' traits and genetic diversity to create a Pangenome - a comprehensive genetic map - of Aegilops tauschii.



Using this Pangenome, they scanned 80,000 bread wheat landraces - locally adapted varieties - held by the <a href="https://www.cimmyt.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center</a> (CIMMYT) and collected from around the world. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-variability-of-wheat-bread">Genetic variability of wheat bread</h2>



The data revealed that approximately 75% of the bread wheat D-genome is derived from a lineage (L2) of Aegilops tauschii that originates from the southern Caspian Sea. The remaining 25% of the D-genome comes from lineages across the species' range.



Simon Krattinger, co-lead author of the study, noted that this 25% influx of genetic material from other lineages of tauschii has contributed to and defined the success of bread wheat.



“Without the genetic variability that this diversity brings, we would most likely not eat bread on the scale we do today. Otherwise, bread wheat today would be a regional crop - important to the Middle East - but I doubt that it would have become globally dominant without this plasticity that enabled bread wheat to adapt,” said Krattinger.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-lineage-of-aegilops-tauschii">Distinct lineage of Aegilops tauschii</h2>



A previous study by the OWWC had revealed the existence of a distinct lineage of Aegilops tauschii, known as L3, which is geographically restricted to present-day Georgia in the Caucasus region - about 500 kilometers from the Fertile Crescent. This L3 lineage is significant because it has contributed the best-known gene for dough quality to bread wheat.



In this study, the researchers hypothesized that if this gene was introduced to bread wheat in a manner similar to how Neanderthal DNA was integrated into the human genome, they would find landraces in the CIMMYT collections with a higher proportion of this L3 lineage.&nbsp;



Indeed, their data showed that wheat landraces collected from the Georgian region contained 7% L3 introgressions in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-sequence-wheat-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genomes</a> - seven times more than the bread wheat landraces collected from the Fertile Crescent.



“We used the L3 tauschii accessions as a guinea pig to track and trace the hybridizations using 80,000 bread wheat landraces,” Krattinger said.&nbsp;



“The data beautifully supports a picture where bread wheat emerges in the southern Caspian, then with migration and agricultural expansion it reached Georgia, where gene flow and hybridizations with the peculiar, genetically distinct and geographically restricted L3 accessions resulted in the influx of new genetic material.”



“This is one of the novel aspects of our study, and it confirms that using our new resources, we can trace the dynamics of these introgressions in bread wheat.”



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



Beyond solving this age-old biological mystery, the new Aegilops tauschii open-source Pangenome and germplasm made available by the OWWC are already being used by researchers and breeders worldwide.&nbsp;



The data will help experts discover new disease resistance genes that will protect wheat crops against long-standing agricultural threats like wheat rust. Researchers are also mining this wild grass species for climate-resilient genes that can be bred into elite wheat cultivars.



At the John Innes Center, researchers worked closely with colleagues from KAUST, employing bioinformatic approaches to track the levels of DNA contributed to bread wheat by the L3 lineage of Aegilops tauschii.&nbsp;



“The study highlights the importance of maintaining genetic resources such as the BBSRC-funded Germplasm Resources Unit here at the John Innes Center, which maintains historic collections of wild grasses that can be used to breed valuable traits such as disease resistance and pest resistance into modern wheat,” Uauy concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07808-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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How bread and wheat gave rise to a civilization of 8 billion people

A major international study has unveiled new insights into how...

Plant-based diets have the potential to reshape our planet's future by significantly reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food-related emissions</a>. 



A recent study reveals that adopting plant-based eating could cut climate-warming greenhouse gas emissions from our food supply chains by an impressive 17 percent.



What we choose to eat isn't just about personal health - it can literally change the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-based-diets-and-global-emissions">Plant-based diets and global emissions</h2>



Shifting from meat-centric plates to plant-dominated ones could bring about significant benefits for our environment.



A team of international researchers carefully studied the effects of such a dietary transformation on global emission levels. 



The researchers found something remarkable. A staggering 56.9% of the world’s population, currently over-consuming, could slash their dietary emissions by 32.4% just by embracing the EAT-Lancet Commission's recommended "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-dietary-shifts-could-keep-global-climate-goals-within-reach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary health diet</a>."



Undeniably, this diet switch also poses a challenge - an anticipated surge of 15.4% in global dietary emissions due to healthier diets adopted by under-consuming populations, presently accounting for 43.1% of the world. 



However, the study confidently states that the benefits would still outweigh the rise in emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-equitable-emissions">Equitable emissions</h2>



The research further highlights a fascinating dichotomy - wealthier nations with hefty food expenditure are also the ones contributing extensively to dietary emissions, mainly due to high consumption of red meat and dairy. 



Although these affluent countries exhibit lower levels of inequality, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-changes-in-diet-can-greatly-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary habits</a> scream otherwise. On the contrary, less affluent countries display both lower emissions and more inequality.



"Animal-based products have a greater potential for reducing emissions when compared to plant-based products. Reduction in over-consumption of emission-intensive products, particularly by wealthy consumer groups in affluent countries, could achieve significant health and climate benefits," noted Dr. Yuli Shan from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-practices-protecting-the-planet">Changing practices, protecting the planet</h2>



To actualize this transformation, the study recommends introducing incentives such as carbon pricing, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dont-say-vegan-food-labeling-should-focus-on-health-and-sustainability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-labeling</a>, and broadening the availability of less emission-intensive products, such as vegetarian foods. 



A well-structured food environment, coupled with planned urban development and infrastructure, could ease the transition towards healthier food habits.



Indeed, this dietary shift is not feasible in all regions, like Mongolia, where traditional nomadic lifestyles make red meat and dairy products dietary mainstays. Encouraging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-is-medicine-education-could-save-millions-of-lives-and-billions-of-dollars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritional education</a> could serve as a practical solution in such regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-shifting-to-plant-based-diets">Challenges in shifting to plant-based diets</h2>



Clearly, low-income countries face a steeper uphill climb. "With more than 1.5 billion low-income populations worldwide unable to afford the cost of the planetary health diet, improving agricultural efficiency and adjusting trade policies are critical," noted Professor Klaus Hubacek from the University of Groningen.



Another challenge is making nutritious food affordable and accessible, especially for lower income groups who usually resort to calorie-dense but nutritionally deficient foods.



The study meticulously evaluated dietary emissions from food products across 139 countries, unveiling the within-country inequality of dietary emissions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-based-diets-to-assess-emissions">Plant-based diets to assess emissions</h2>



"The objective of the diet shift scenario is to assess emission mitigation of the food system resulting from changing consumer choices, not forcing everyone to adopt the same diet," said Yanxian Li, a PhD student at the University of Groningen.



Without question, actualizing this dietary shift would require a considerable alteration in global food production. 



For instance, the production of red meat, sugars, tubers, and grains would have to decrease, while that of legumes, nuts, added fats, and fruits and vegetables would need to increase.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ripple-effect">The ripple effect</h2>



Achieving the desired diet shifts could affect global markets, resulting in fluctuating agricultural product prices and land value, and potentially stimulating biofuel production – a phenomenon we already witness. The ripple effects could offset some benefits of the diet shift.



The increasing consciousness of the planet’s health is encouraging. However, the profound changes required to our global food system underscore a pressing need - it’s time we started making smarter, more sustainable food choices, for our sake and the planet's.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-popularity-of-plant-based-diets">Growing popularity of plant-based diets</h2>



As awareness of environmental issues increases, plant-based diets are becoming more popular across the globe. 



This shift isn't just a trend - it's a response to the growing understanding that our food choices have a profound impact on the planet.



By reducing the consumption of animal products and embracing more plant-based foods, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable food system that benefits both human health and the environment. 



This movement towards plant-based eating is not only a personal health choice but also a crucial step in the fight against climate change.



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Making the right food choices can literally change the world

Plant-based diets have the potential to reshape our planet's future...

Astronomers from the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> have recently discovered that the rotation of a nearby star, V889 Herculis, is markedly different from that of our Sun, offering new insights into fundamental stellar astrophysics. 



This finding could help improve our understanding of solar activity, including the formation of sunspots and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-space-weather-forecasting-will-help-us-predict-solar-eruptions/">solar eruptions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-theories-about-star-rotation-nbsp">Challenging theories about star rotation&nbsp;</h2>



Unlike the Sun, which rotates fastest at the equator and slows down towards the poles, V889 Herculis - located about 115 light years away in the constellation of Hercules - exhibits its fastest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotation</a> at a latitude of around 40 degrees. 



Both the equator and polar regions of this star rotate more slowly. This unexpected rotational pattern has not been observed in any other star and challenges existing theories about stellar rotation, which has long been considered a well-understood physical property.



“We applied a newly developed statistical technique to data from a familiar star that has been studied at the University of Helsinki for years. We did not expect to see such anomalies in stellar rotation,” said Mikko Tuomi, who coordinated the research.



“The anomalies in the rotational profile of V889 Herculis indicate that our understanding of stellar dynamics and magnetic dynamos are insufficient.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-stellar-astrophysics-nbsp">Understanding stellar astrophysics&nbsp;</h2>



V889 Herculis shares many characteristics with a young Sun, offering clues about the Sun’s history and evolution. Understanding stellar astrophysics is crucial for predicting phenomena like sunspots and solar eruptions on our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origin-of-the-suns-magnetic-field-discovered-after-400-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun</a>. 



Stars, including V889 Herculis, are spherical plasma structures composed of charged particles. Unlike planets, they lack solid surfaces and are dynamic entities, balancing the pressure from nuclear reactions in their cores against their own gravity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-rotation-patterns-of-stars">Fascinating rotation patterns of stars</h2>



One of the fascinating aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> is their differential rotation, meaning that the rotation rate varies depending on the latitude. This effect is caused by the movement of hot plasma to the star's surface through a process called convection. 



Convection interacts with the star’s angular momentum, leading to different rotational speeds at different latitudes - faster near the equator and slower near the poles.



However, various factors, including a star’s mass, age, chemical composition, rotation period, and magnetic field, influence these rotational dynamics, leading to variations in differential rotation profiles across different stars.



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



Thomas Hackman, a docent of astronomy who participated in the research, highlighted the significance of this discovery.&nbsp;



“The Sun has been the only star for which studying the rotational profile has been possible,” said Hackman. “Stellar differential rotation is a crucial factor that affects the magnetic activity of stars. The method we have developed opens a new window into the inner workings of other stars.”



The astronomers at the University of Helsinki’s Department of Particle Physics and Astrophysics applied a new statistical modeling technique to long-term brightness observations of nearby young stars.&nbsp;



This method allowed them to model the periodic variations in brightness by accounting for the differences in spot movement across various latitudes. By analyzing this spot movement, they could estimate the rotational profiles of these stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-from-long-term-data">Valuable insights from long-term data</h2>



The study also examined a second star, LQ Hydrae, located in the constellation of Hydra. Unlike V889 Herculis, LQ Hydrae was found to rotate more like a rigid body, with little variation in rotation speed from the equator to the poles, indicating very small differences in rotational speed across latitudes.



The researchers based their findings on data collected from the <a href="https://www.fairborninstitute.org/astronomy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fairborn Observatory</a>, where the brightness of these stars has been monitored with robotic telescopes for about 30 years. This long-term data provides valuable insights into the behavior of the stars over extended periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-behavior-of-stars-nbsp">Observing the behavior of stars&nbsp;</h2>



Mikko Tuomi expressed appreciation for the contributions of senior astronomer Gregory Henry from the <a href="https://tennessee.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee</a>, who leads the observational campaign at Fairborn Observatory. 



“For many years, Greg’s project has been extremely valuable in understanding the behavior of nearby stars. Whether the motivation is to study the rotation and properties of young, active stars or to understand the nature of stars with planets, the observations from Fairborn Observatory have been absolutely crucial,” said Tuomi.



“It is amazing that even in the era of great space-based observatories, we can obtain fundamental information on stellar astrophysics with small 40 cm ground-based telescopes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-rotation-of-nearby-stars-nbsp">Rapid rotation of nearby stars&nbsp;</h2>



Both V889 Herculis and LQ Hydrae are approximately 50 million years old and share several characteristics with a young Sun. They rotate rapidly, with rotation periods of about one and a half days.&nbsp;



Due to their rapid rotation, the long-term brightness observations contain many rotational cycles, allowing for detailed study. These stars were selected as targets for this study because of the extensive observational data available and because they have been actively studied at the University of Helsinki for many years.



This unexpected discovery of a unique rotational profile in V889 Herculis not only challenges our current understanding of stellar dynamics but also opens new avenues for research into the magnetic activity and evolution of stars.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202449861" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a>.



Image Credit: Jani Närhi, University of Helsinki



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Unusual rotation of a nearby star has never been seen before

Astronomers from the University of Helsinki have recently discovered that...

Here's to all those secret shower singers out there, your unheralded solos are sounding pretty good, according to new research. Chances are you are singing in perfect musical pitch more often than you think.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-replicating-earworms">Replicating earworms</h2>



The study revolves around the concept of "earworms," those nagging bits of songs that get stuck in your head and loop incessantly. 



To unravel this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/classical-music-orchestrates-a-mood-lifting-dance-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical mystery</a>, psychologists from the <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Cruz</a> asked people to sing out any earworms they had at random points during the day, record them on their phones, and send the recordings for analysis.



The results were striking. Researchers found that a significant number of participants could replicate the pitch of the original song almost flawlessly. 



Specifically, 44.7% of the recordings matched the original pitch perfectly, and 68.9% were within one semitone of the original song.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-musical-and-pitch-memory">Musical and pitch memory</h2>



“This demonstrates that a surprising slice of the population has a kind of automatic, covert 'perfect pitch' capability," says Cognitive Psychology Ph.D. candidate Matt Evans from UC Santa Cruz, who spearheaded the study with support from Professor Nicolas Davidenko and undergraduate research assistant Pablo Gaeta.



However, Evans finds it intriguing that many of those with this accurate pitch memory doubted their own ability. 



"They would be much less certain that they were singing in the right key, even though they had the melody right," Evans says. 



This uncertainty could be because they lack the labeling ability that comes with the 'perfect pitch.'



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perfect-pitch-in-music">'Perfect pitch' in music</h2>



True 'perfect pitch' refers to the ability to produce or identify a given <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical note</a> on the first try, without any reference pitch. 



It's a rare skill, with less than 1 in 10,000 people possessing this ability. Renowned musicians like Ludwig van Beethoven, Ella Fitzgerald, and Mariah Carey are among those few.



However, recent trends in scientific research show that pitch memory is much more widespread than previously believed. 



One interesting observation is that participants can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-triggers-unique-prediction-zones-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sing a familiar song</a> from memory in the correct key at least 15% of the time, in laboratory conditions. This occurs much more frequently than what randomness would suggest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recalling-pitch-in-music">Recalling pitch in music</h2>



The researchers chose earworms for their study due to their involuntary nature. The team wanted to test whether pitch memory still holds when one is not consciously recalling the music, and their observations indicated a resounding yes.



"The brain usually captures the essence of long-term memories and takes shortcuts to represent information. One such shortcut could be forgetting the original key of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-can-synchronize-the-heartbeats-of-the-audience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>. But our study shows that the brain does not discard this information," Professor Nicolas Davidenko explains. 



"It suggests that musical memories are highly accurate representations, defying the typical gist formation common in other areas of long-term memory."



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



The findings from this study offer valuable insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music education</a> and how we might cultivate a better understanding of musical abilities among learners.



Given that a substantial portion of individuals possess an inherent capacity to recall pitch accurately, educators can harness this potential by implementing more engaging and supportive teaching methods. 



Rather than discrediting their musical instincts, instructors should encourage students to embrace their auditory memories. 



This approach could foster an environment where learners feel confident <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/similar-patterns-music-language-found-across-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exploring their musicality</a>, ultimately leading to richer musical experiences and growth.



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



As research continues to unravel the intricacies of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical cognition</a>, further exploration is needed to understand the various factors that contribute to pitch memory and earworms.



Future studies could delve into the potential links between earworms and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-gives-rise-to-unique-physical-sensations-in-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional states</a>, examining how feelings might enhance or inhibit one's ability to recall melodies accurately.



Additionally, investigating the neural mechanisms at play within the brain during these processes could provide invaluable information that aids in the development of techniques for both music therapy and skill acquisition. 



Ultimately, a more profound comprehension of musical memory and its impact on daily life can illuminate just how deeply music is woven into the human experience.



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



As we continue to delve into the mechanisms of musical memory, Evans hopes that these findings will encourage more people to engage in music. 



He points out that none of the study participants were musicians or claimed to have a perfect pitch, and yet they had this hidden musical talent.



“Music and singing are uniquely human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/song-melodies-have-become-much-simpler-since-1950/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experiences</a> that many refrain from because they believe they can't, or they've been told they can't,” Evans says. 



“But you don’t have to be Beyonce to engage with music. Your brain is doing some of it automatically and accurately, despite that part of you that believes you can't.”



So, next time you get an earworm, don't shy away from singing it out loud. You never know, you might just surprise yourself!



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/s13414-024-02936-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Attention, Perception, &amp; Psychophysics</a>.



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Most people have a hidden musical talent for singing on pitch

Here's to all those secret shower singers out there, your...

Who would ever think that the cozy corners of your garden could harbor something deadly? Well, it's time to believe it. Researchers have stumbled upon a tenacious, life-threatening fungus taking cover in the soils of our home gardens. 



This isn’t any typical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">garden-variety intruder</a>, so to speak. It is a drug-resistant strain of Aspergillus fumigatus, a type of infectious fungus that packs a lethal punch.



The discovery was made by a team of diligent researchers at the <a href="https://www.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a>. In a shocking finding, certain gardening materials were found to contain this lethal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-all-fungi-matter-not-just-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variety of fungus</a>. What's more, it isn’t an isolated occurrence but has been found lurking in garden soils, composts, and even flower bulbs across America.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-fungus-strikes-in-gardens">How the fungus strikes in gardens</h2>



Inhalation of A. fumigatus can introduce it into the lungs, causing an infection known as aspergillosis. This innocent-sounding infection could be a matter of life and death for people with compromised immune systems, including those living with lung disease or on chemotherapy.



Already a troublemaker in Europe, this strain resistant to antifungal treatments has knocked on American doors. 



And if the statistics are anything to go by, it’s causing a global rampage with over 300,000 infections each year and a mortality rate fluctuating between a shocking 30 to 90 percent.



For immunocompromised patients, it's often a dead-end with a near 100% fatality rate without treatment or if the infection fights off antifungal drugs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-infection">Symptoms of infection </h2>



This fungal tyrant manifests in frightening ways. Fever, coughing up blood or mucous plugs, and an exacerbation of asthma are among the symptoms. 



However, with a strong immune system, it’s usually not a concern. "Our immune cells will gobble them up," said Dr. Michael Mansour, an infectious disease expert at <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts General Hospital</a>.



Researchers from the University of Georgia collected 525 samples from various plant products across American farms. Of these, 24 tested positive for the drug-resistant strain of A. fumigatus. It's a wakeup call, reminding us that what's underfoot is not always harmless.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riskiest-areas-and-garden-fungus">Riskiest areas and garden fungus</h2>



The study, while not explicitly identifying the specific types of compost that are most likely to harbor the drug-resistant strain of bacteria, did suggest a potential concern regarding imported flower bulbs. 



This implication raises important questions about the practices surrounding the importation and cultivation of these bulbs. 



Since flower bulbs are often sourced from various regions worldwide, it is crucial to understand how they may introduce or spread these harmful strains into new environments. 



By highlighting this risk, the research emphasizes the need for stricter regulations and monitoring of imported agricultural products to safeguard public health and protect local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tipping-point-discovered-in-fungi-evolution-that-impacts-their-shape-and-growth-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> from the unintended consequences of introducing drug-resistant pathogens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fungus-among-us">The fungus among us</h2>



This resistant strain of A. fumigatus is ubiquitous, particularly in compost and leaf piles where it thrives in the heat produced by decomposition. 



It doesn't discriminate, either - it's commonly found in soil and can be easily disturbed and released into the air by gardeners. "It's pretty much everywhere in the environment," stated Marin Talbot Brewer, a professor of mycology and plant pathology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-victims">Vulnerable victims</h2>



This fungal threat is especially risky for those with weakened immune systems, like individuals with chronic lung conditions, organ transplant recipients, and those undergoing chemotherapy. 



When someone is vulnerable, aspergillosis can rapidly escalate, spreading from the lungs to other vital organs like the brain, heart, kidneys, or skin. 



Unfortunately, this can lead to serious and often tragic outcomes. It's a reminder of how important it is to protect our health and stay informed about potential risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-garden-fungus-growth">Preventing garden fungus growth</h2>



As always, prevention is the best cure. Dr. Mansour suggests that regular gardeners and anyone participating in renovations involving dampness should wear masks and gloves as a precautionary measure.



The conclusions are clear - our gardens are not as safe as they seem. But with the right cautionary steps (and a little bit of help from science), we can continue to enjoy our love for gardening without fear.



The discovery of drug-resistant A. fumigatus isn't the end of gardening, but it is a call to be wiser, safer, and more aware. After all, knowledge is power, and this newfound knowledge might just save our lives.



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Deadly fungus found in garden soils across America

Who would ever think that the cozy corners of your...

New research is unfolding a fascinating story of pretend play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-diets-of-infants-provide-the-building-blocks-of-human-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants and toddlers</a>. It tells a tale of evolution, one that starts from the very first peek-a-boo to the imaginative exploits of being a pretend princess or a pseudo superman.



This captivating account comes courtesy of an extensive study led by Professor Elena Hoicka, a professor of psychology in education the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. 



“Our findings highlight how pretending is a complex, evolving process which begins very early on in life, helping their cognitive and social skills to advance," noted Professor Hoicka.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pretend-play-and-early-development">Pretend play and early development </h2>



Pretending or pretend play, as it’s commonly known, is when children act out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-need-quick-responses-to-their-babbling-to-learn-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various roles and scenarios</a>. It's a critical aspect of their developmental process, fostering creativity, social skills, and cognitive growth.



This research is based on a comprehensive survey involving 900 parents from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The parents shared their observations about their children aged from birth to nearly four years old (47 months).



What is intriguing is that the youngest age when children demonstrated an understanding of pretending was as early as four months. Half of the children at 12 months displayed pretence, and the same proportion were regularly engaging in pretend games themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-pretend-play">Evolution of pretend play</h2>



Interestingly, the research identified 18 different types of pretending that emerge and evolve during early years. 



“This then moves on to pretending one object is another, for instance, pretending a banana is a phone. This type of pretending really opens up their sense of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infants-show-creativity-skills-even-before-they-can-talk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creative play</a> as they can now imagine any object they want to play with,” explained Professor Hoicka.



As children turn two, their pretence shows more abstract thought. They start to pretend about actions and scenarios beyond their everyday realm like zooming off in a rocket ship. With improving language skills, these tots start to create complex storylines in their pretend games.



At the age of three, children's creativity clocks the highest level. They start creating wild scenarios, sometimes even interacting with imaginary friends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-benefits-of-pretend-play-nbsp">Additional benefits of pretend play&nbsp;</h2>



The benefits of pretend play extend beyond cognitive learning. Many forms of pretending involve physical activity, which helps children develop their motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness



Through pretend play, children explore different emotions and social roles, which helps them understand empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution. It also allows them to experiment with social interactions in a safe environment, learning how to negotiate, share, and take turns.



Furthermore, pretend play often requires children to follow rules and stay within the boundaries of their imaginary scenarios, helping them develop self-control and the ability to manage their emotions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pretending-as-a-diagnostic-tool">Pretending as a diagnostic tool</h2>



"With further research, the findings have the potential to be used as a diagnostic tool for developmental differences in early years. This could ultimately help parents, early years educators, and medical professionals better understand how to play with children at different stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-hear-far-more-speech-at-home-than-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>," said Professor Hoicka.



As parents and caregivers, creating a space that encourages pretend play can really boost our children's development. It doesn't take much - simple strategies can help kids go from just watching to actively participating in imaginative play.



Setting up a special play area with open-ended toys like blocks, dolls, costumes, and craft supplies invites children to explore their imaginations. Plus, when adults join in and show how everyday objects can turn into parts of fantastical stories, it sparks even more creativity. 



Encouraging kids to play together with friends or siblings not only makes it more fun but also helps them develop social skills and empathy as they take on different roles in their adventures. Ultimately, engaging in pretend play nurtures creativity and builds important cognitive skills, laying a solid foundation for their future learning and relationships.



Imagine a world where a banana doubles as a telephone, and a toddler is your spaceship pilot. This is the world of children, and their teachers are their imagination and curiosity. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/cognitive-development" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cognitive Development</a>.



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Pretend play builds the foundation for learning and relationships

New research is unfolding a fascinating story of pretend play...

Mars,Insight,Lander,Mission,To,Study,Deep,Interior,Of,The

Scientists have discovered what they believe to be a large underground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-largest-lake-once-contained-an-enormous-amount-of-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reservoir</a> of liquid water on Mars. The study was made possible using data from NASA's InSight lander, the first&nbsp;robotic&nbsp;lander&nbsp;designed to study the deep interior of the planet.



The masterminds behind this research are Vashan Wright, a former UC Berkeley postdoctoral fellow who is now an assistant professor at UC San Diego’s <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Institution of Oceanography</a>, and colleagues Michael Manga and Matthias Morzfeld.



The significance of the research lies in the compelling prospect of discovering life beyond Earth. Although we have much work ahead, the presence of water on Mars presents exciting new possibilities. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-discovery">Science behind the discovery</h2>



Have you ever felt the Earth tremble beneath you during an earthquake? That shifting and shaking is due to seismic activity, which geophysicists used to probe Mars' interior. 



Based on this data, the scientists estimate that the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-makes-surprising-find-under-martian-rock-sulfur-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater could cover the entire planet</a> to a depth of between 1 and 2 kilometers. That's roughly equivalent to a mile.



The catch? This water is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-vanishing-water-mystery-new-insights-curiosity-rover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not easily accessible</a>. It's located in tiny cracks and pores in rock within the Martian crust, between 11.5 and 20 kilometers below the surface. This makes it a bit of a challenge to reach, much like drilling a hole a kilometer deep on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-water-on-mars">Discovering water on Mars</h2>



What's really exciting about this discovery is that it pinpoints another potential site to look for life on Mars. 



Researchers believe that if they can figure out a way to probe this reservoir, it might answer some burning questions about the geological history of Mars and possibly even the existence of life outside our planet.



“Understanding the Martian water cycle is critical for understanding the evolution of the climate, surface,&nbsp;and interior,” noted Wright. “A useful starting point is to identify where water is and how much is there.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potentially-habitable-environment">Potentially habitable environment </h2>



The researchers employed a mathematical model of rock physics, analogous to those utilized on Earth, and found that the seismic data from InSight are most effectively explained by a deep layer of fractured igneous rock containing liquid water. This intriguing finding invites further exploration and discussion.



"Establishing that there is a big reservoir of liquid water provides some window into what the climate was like or could be like," said Manga, a UC Berkeley professor of Earth and planetary science.



"And water is necessary for life as we know it. I don't see why (the underground reservoir) is not a habitable environment. It's certainly true on Earth — deep, deep mines host life, the bottom of the ocean hosts life. We haven't found any evidence for life on Mars, but at least we have identified a place that should, in principle, be able to sustain life."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-dynamics-of-the-martian-interior">Hidden dynamics of the Martian interior</h2>



Advancements in technology have significantly contributed to our understanding of extraterrestrial environments. 



NASA's InSight lander, equipped with sensitive seismometers and other cutting-edge instruments, has allowed scientists to gather precise data about Mars' geological structure.



These tools enable researchers to detect minute seismic waves, which are crucial to revealing the hidden dynamics of the Martian interior.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mars_hidden-water_interior-cutout_mars-Insight_credit-VashanWright_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mars_hidden-water_interior-cutout_mars-Insight_credit-VashanWright_1s.webp" alt="A cutout of the Martian interior beneath NASA's Insight lander. The top 5 kilometers of the crust appear to be dry, but a new study provides evidence for a zone of fractured rock 11.5-20 km below the surface that is full of liquid water. Credit: Vashan Wright/NASA" class="wp-image-1941610"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A cutout of the Martian interior beneath NASA's Insight lander. The top 5 kilometers of the crust appear to be dry, but a new study provides evidence for a zone of fractured rock 11.5-20 km below the surface that is full of liquid water. Credit: Vashan Wright/NASA</figcaption></figure>



"The mission greatly exceeded my expectations," said Manga. "From looking at all the seismic data that Insight collected, they've figured out the thickness of the crust, the depth of the core, the composition of the core, even a little bit about the temperature within the mantle."



Moreover, as technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even greater insights into planetary processes, potentially leading to new discoveries that could reshape our understanding of Mars and, by extension, our own planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-exploration-of-mars">Future exploration of Mars</h2>



The exciting possibility of accessing water beneath Mars has sparked talks about future missions. 



Researchers are looking into spacecraft and landers that could drill into the Martian surface to collect water samples. These missions would help us understand Mars' climate history and guide future human exploration. 



By studying this water, we may find clues about potential life on Mars and learn more about the importance of water for life in the universe. The scientific community is eagerly anticipating what comes next.



While we're just scratching the surface, these findings provide an crucial direction for future exploration of Mars. 



So, the next time you gaze up at the night sky, remember there's a lot more going on out there than meets the eye. What will we discover next? Only time will tell.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409983121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Hidden water found on Mars would cover the planet over one mile deep

Scientists have discovered what they believe to be a large...

In the brushlands of Western Australia, crocodiles are vital to the local culture and ecosystems. But they are also facing a fight for their survival.



A unique collaboration of science and Indigenous knowledge is driving an innovative conservation strategy aimed at saving these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-croc-day-embracing-the-mighty-reptile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater crocodiles</a> (Crocodylus johnstoni) from a deadly invasive species: the cane toad. 



The crocodiles hold cultural significance and are part of the traditional owners’ Dreamtime stories, and their loss would disrupt the delicate balance of local ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-approach-to-protecting-crocodiles">Collaborative approach to protecting crocodiles</h2>



Scientists from <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macquarie University</a>, working alongside Bunuba Indigenous rangers and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) in Western Australia, have implemented a novel strategy aimed at shielding freshwater crocodiles from the devastating effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cane-toads-teach-australias-wildlife-to-avoid-their-poison/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cane toads</a>. 



Lead author Dr. Georgia Ward-Fear from Macquarie University’s School of Natural Sciences and her co-author, Professor Rick Shine, documented the successful trial of a behavioral ecology method called conditioned taste aversion (CTA). 



The team has demonstrated a method that significantly reduces freshwater crocodile death rates by teaching the crocodiles to associate cane toads with a bout of food poisoning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cataclysmic-impact-of-cane-toads">The cataclysmic impact of cane toads</h2>



Since cane toads were imported from South America in the 1930s, they have left a trail of destruction across northern Australia, wiping out local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-crocodile-like-beast-was-a-terrifying-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator species</a> such as goannas, snakes, and freshwater crocodiles. 



“Losing freshwater crocodiles to cane toads will mean that bottom feeders in our rivers will eat all the bait such as judembah (cherrabin, a large freshwater prawn) and lardy (boney bream, an estuarine fish), leaving no fish for the barramundi and stingray to eat,” explained Ranger coordinator Paul Bin Busu, emphasizing the broader ecological impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-they-did-it-baiting-the-baiters">How they did it: Baiting the baiters</h2>



Between 2019 and 2022, Dr. Ward-Fear and Professor Shine worked with local rangers and DBCA staff to deploy doctored cane toad carcasses across four large gorge systems in the Kimberley region of north-western Australia. 



The team collected hundreds of cane toads, removed the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-that-protects-poisonous-animals-from-themselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poisonous</a> parts, and injected the toad bodies with a nausea-inducing chemical. This ensured that freshwater crocodiles consuming the bait would experience temporary sickness but not death.



Control baits of chicken meat, without any nausea-inducing additives, were used to monitor the effectiveness of the conditioned taste aversion training.



“Being a part of the program on the ground doing the job was really good,” said Bin Busu. His team of rangers set up hundreds of bait stations along river banks, using canoes to hang and replace fresh baits while monitoring the crocodiles' responses.



“The first three days we noticed the crocodiles were taking the cane toads, then they would go away. Then we noticed they would smell the cane toad before eating, and on the last day, we noticed that it was mostly the chicken necks getting eaten," said Bin Busu. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greatly-reduced-crocodile-mortality-rates">Greatly reduced crocodile mortality rates</h2>



Observation and surveillance tactics yielded compelling results. Using nocturnal "spotlighting" surveys and remotely triggered wildlife cameras, the team found that areas where the aversion trials took place had greatly reduced crocodile mortality rates compared to unbaited control sites.



“Our baiting completely prevented deaths in areas where cane toads were arriving and decreased deaths by 95% in areas where toads had been for a couple of years. Effects which continued in the years following,” noted Dr. Ward-Fear.



“These are really exciting results because it provides land managers with tools to use ahead of the invasion, but also behind the invasion front,” said Sara McAllister from DBCA. “Together we’ve shown that collaborations between academics, Indigenous rangers, and land management agencies can be really effective for conservation science.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-ecology-for-crocodile-conservation">Behavioral ecology for crocodile conservation </h2>



Bin Busu said that after the program, we seethe populations of the crocodiles are coming back, "which is a good thing to see." 



The team had previously used a similar technique to protect yellow monitor lizards from invasive predators. 



Professor Shine, a senior author on the study, affirms the potency of behavioral ecology as an effective tool against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a>, particularly in a globalized world. 



“At a time when globalization has massively increased the spread of invasive species, behavioral ecology can protect vulnerable ecosystems,” said Professor Shine.



What started as a quirky experiment with an unpalatable dinner has now unfolded into a promising solution in the realm of conservation, proving that innovation and collaboration can indeed save a species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.2507" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a>.



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'Naughty' meal strategy could save crocodiles

In the brushlands of Western Australia, crocodiles are vital to...

A,Very,Old,Cottonwood,(poplar),Tree,With,Green,Leaves,And

Wood from genetically engineered trees is revolutionizing the construction industry with its potential to replace traditional building materials like steel, cement, and glass.



While engineered wood is celebrated for its ability to store carbon and resist degradation, it also comes with challenges, particularly the need for energy-intensive chemical processing that generates considerable waste. 



However, a breakthrough from the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> has changed the game. 



This group of scientists recently unveiled an innovative approach that leverages genetic engineering to create high-performing, structural wood without the need for energy-intensive processing or volatile chemicals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tree-genetics-in-wood-engineering">Tree genetics in wood engineering</h2>



In a significant advancement for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mycocrete-new-material-made-of-fungi-hopes-to-replace-concrete-in-construction-projects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable building materials</a>, the researchers successfully modified a gene in live poplar trees, enabling them to produce wood ready for engineering sans processing.



"We are very excited to demonstrate an innovative approach that combines genetic engineering and wood engineering, to sustainably sequester and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/concrete-becoming-great-carbon-sink-capturing-storing-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">store carbon</a> in a resilient super wood form", commented Yiping Qi, a professor in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Maryland. 



"Carbon sequestration is critical in our fight against climate change, and such engineered wood may find many uses in the future bioeconomy," Qi added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-use-genetically-engineered-poplar-trees">Why use genetically engineered poplar trees?</h2>



Poplar trees are remarkable fast-growing giants that capture attention in parks and forests. These impressive organisms can grow several feet within a single year, characterized by their tall, straight trunks and leaves that flutter gracefully in the slightest breeze.



Diverse varieties, such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aspen-forests-could-reverse-biodiversity-loss-in-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quaking aspen</a>, cottonwoods, and Lombardy poplar, each exhibit unique traits while maintaining the quintessential poplar appearance. 



Their leaves, typically heart-shaped or oval, transform into brilliant yellow hues in the autumn, creating a stunning natural carpet.



Beyond their aesthetic appeal, poplars play a vital role in ecosystems, providing habitat for birds and sustenance for deer and other wildlife. 



In addition, humans have harnessed their utility in many ways. Poplar wood serves various purposes, from paper production to furniture making, and they are often planted as effective natural windbreaks.



An intriguing aspect of poplars lies in their resilience. Following forest fires, they demonstrate a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/listening-to-the-largest-and-oldest-tree-on-earth-what-does-it-have-to-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remarkable ability to regenerate</a> by sending up new shoots from their root systems. 



This phenomenon exemplifies nature's capacity for recovery, encapsulating the sentiment that "you can't keep a good tree down."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-engineering-lignin">Out-engineering lignin</h2>



Traditionally, before wood can be treated for structural properties like increased strength or UV resistance, it must first be rid of a major component called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/researchers-create-antimicrobial-substances-using-lignin-and-plant-wastes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lignin</a>.



This is usually accomplished through chemical treatments that not only produce waste but also rely on significant energy usage.



The study saw the research team knock out a key gene titled 4CL1 using "base editing", which resulted in poplars with 12.8% lower lignin content than wild-type poplar trees.



This significantly reduced lignin content is on par with standard chemical treatments for engineered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-super-black-wonder-wood-called-nyxlon-absorbs-almost-all-light/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wood products</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-of-genetically-engineered-wood">Sustainability of genetically engineered wood</h2>



The research team's modified poplar trees were grown next to unmodified control trees in a greenhouse for close to six months. 



Interestingly, they found no significant difference in growth rates or structure between the modified and unmodified trees.



Utilizing the genetically modified poplars, the team produced small samples of high-strength compressed wood - a material similar to particle board often used in <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/wooden-furniture-of-the-future-will-ship-flat-and-dry-into-shape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">furniture</a>. 



This material is created by soaking the wood in water under a vacuum and then hot-pressing it until it reaches nearly 1/5 of its original thickness, increasing the density of the fibers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-research-team-learned">What the research team learned</h2>



To evaluate their success, the researchers compared the genetically modified poplar to natural poplar, untreated samples, and those treated with traditional chemical processes to reduce lignin content. 



The results were promising. The modified material performed on par with chemically processed natural wood, with both versions proving denser and more than 1.5 times stronger than untreated natural wood.



The genetically modified material demonstrated tensile strength comparable to aluminum alloy 6061 and chemically treated wood.



This innovative research offers a promising path to the production of an array of building products in a cost-effective and environmentally <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mature-forests-play-a-surprising-role-in-climate-mitigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable manner</a>.



With the potential to significantly lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on energy-intensive processing methods, genetically engineered wood might be the next major player in our battle against climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-genetically-engineered-wood">Future of genetically engineered wood</h2>



As we move toward a more sustainable future, the application of genetically engineered wood could revolutionize the construction industry. 



Beyond structural applications, this technology may pave the way for new developments in furniture design, packaging materials, and even composite products. 



Ongoing research will focus on optimizing the properties of this engineered wood, including its durability and resistance to pests and environmental factors. 



As awareness of climate issues grows, embracing innovations like this one could lead to a more sustainable approach to building, ultimately helping us reduce our ecological footprint while meeting the increasing demand for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yale-scientists-are-turning-wood-into-high-quality-bioplastic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality materials</a>. 



The future of construction may very well lie in the marriage of nature and technology, with genetically engineered wood leading the charge.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/matter/fulltext/S2590-2385(24)00396-5?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2590238524003965%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matter</a>.



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Genetically engineered trees produce wood that may revolutionize the construction industry

Wood from genetically engineered trees is revolutionizing the construction industry...

In the world of digital data, and now quantum communication, security has always been a moving target, constantly evolving to meet new challenges. 



As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, so do the threats that can compromise our confidential information, making it more crucial than ever to stay ahead of potential attacks.



The rise of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computing</a> represents a significant leap in computational power, bringing us to a critical juncture where traditional encryption methods -- once deemed robust -- are increasingly vulnerable to decryption by these advanced systems.



This vulnerability raises serious concerns for businesses and individuals alike, as our reliance on digital platforms grows. But fear not -- quantum key distribution (QKD) is here to revolutionize the way we safeguard our data.



This cutting-edge technology leverages the principles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to create secure communication channels, ensuring that our information remains protected in ways that were once unimaginable.



By using QKD, we can stay one step ahead of cyber threats and maintain the integrity of our most sensitive data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-of-quantum-communication">Heart of quantum communication</h2>



Recently, an exciting experiment in Germany took quantum communication to new heights, representing a big step toward a secure quantum internet.



This achievement was led by Professor Fei Ding from <a href="https://www.uni-hannover.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leibniz University</a> of Hannover, Professor Stefan Kück from the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (<a href="https://www.ptb.de/cms/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PTB</a>), and Professor Peter Michler from the <a href="https://www.uni-stuttgart.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Stuttgart</a>, along with their brilliant team of researchers.



At the core of this experiment lies a fascinating piece of technology: semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). Often described as "artificial atoms," these tiny structures hold immense potential in the quantum world, particularly in the realm of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-quantum-computers-just-got-easier-with-new-technique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum information technologies</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-50-mile-long-quantum-internet">50-mile long quantum internet</h2>



For the first time, these quantum dots were utilized in an intercity QKD experiment, connecting the cities of Hannover and Braunschweig via optical fiber in what has been dubbed the "<a href="https://www.lnqe.uni-hannover.de/en/leibniz-research-centre/news-events/online-spotlights/news-detailed-view/news/bmbf-funds-first-quantum-communication-link-in-lower-saxony-with-2-million-euros" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niedersachsen Quantum Link</a>."



“We work with quantum dots, which are tiny structures similar to atoms but tailored to our needs. For the first time, we used these ‘artificial atoms’ in a quantum communication experiment between two different cities," noted Professor Fei Ding, explaining the process.



This connection, stretching approximately 79 kilometers (50 miles), forms the first quantum communication link in Lower Saxony, Germany. It’s a crucial step towards the realization of a secure, long-distance quantum internet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-atom-qkd-experiment">Artificial atom (QKD) experiment</h2>



The experiment commenced with Alice at Leibniz University of Hannover (LUH), where she prepared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single photons encrypted</a> in polarization.



These photons were transmitted through a fiber-optic channel to Bob at the PTB in Braunschweig, whose role was to decrypt the polarized photons using a passive polarization decoder.



This innovative setup successfully illustrated the stable and rapid transmission of secret keys, a crucial element in secure communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-communication-breakthrough">Quantum communication breakthrough</h2>



In an impressive advancement, researchers have confirmed positive secret key rates (SKRs) over distances of up to 144 kilometers, corresponding to a 28.11 dB loss in a controlled laboratory setting. 



Over 35 hours, they successfully accomplished high-rate secret key transmission while keeping the quantum bit error ratio (QBER) remarkably low.



Dr. Jingzhong Yang highlighted the importance of this development, noting, “When compared to existing quantum key distribution (QKD) systems that utilize single-photon sources (SPS), the SKR achieved in this study outperforms all current SPS-based implementations.”



This significant success not only sets a new benchmark for QKD systems but also underscores the promising potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum dots in various applications</a> within the emerging quantum internet. These include innovations such as quantum repeaters and distributed quantum sensing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-need-a-quantum-internet">Why we need a quantum internet</h2>



The quest for secure communication is intrinsic to human civilization, with its importance magnified in today’s digital landscape. As we navigate this era, the stakes have never been higher.



Enter quantum communication -- an incredible technological feat that harnesses the mind-bending <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">properties of quantum physics</a> to deliver unparalleled security.



By utilizing single photons emitted from quantum dot devices, we can transmit information across vast distances with a level of assurance that any interception attempt will be swiftly detected.



“Some years ago, we only dreamt of using quantum dots in real-world quantum communication scenarios," Professor Ding enthused.



"Today, we are thrilled to demonstrate their potential for many more fascinating experiments and applications in the future, moving towards a ‘quantum internet’.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-road-ahead-for-the-quantum-internet">Road ahead for the quantum internet</h2>



The successful demonstration of intercity quantum key distribution using semiconductor quantum dots is a glimpse into the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secure-quantum-communication-one-step-closer-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">secure communication</a>.



As we move closer to realizing a quantum internet, the implications for cybersecurity, data privacy, and information sharing are profound.



This experiment lays the groundwork for more extensive and more complex quantum networks that could span entire continents. The integration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-vibrating-atoms-tune-single-electron-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum dots</a> into these networks is just the beginning.



Researchers speculate that quantum dots could also play a pivotal role in developing quantum repeaters, which are essential for extending the reach of quantum communication networks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-communication-ushers-in-a-new-era">Quantum communication ushers in a new era</h2>



As we approach a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new era in communication</a>, the work of Professor Ding and his colleagues exemplifies the remarkable potential of innovation and collaboration.



The quantum internet, once a distant aspiration, is now an emerging reality that stands to transform our methods of connection, communication, and the safeguarding of sensitive information.



While the journey to realize the quantum internet is ongoing, each advancement brings us closer to a future where secure communication is not merely a possibility but a certainty.



Though quantum dots may be small, their influence on the future of communication is poised to be profoundly significant.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41377-024-01488-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Light: Science &amp; Application</a>.



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'Artificial atoms' are revolutionizing how we maintain privacy and protect data

In the world of digital data, and now quantum communication,...

New research reveals that work-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> caused by job strain and an imbalance between efforts applied and rewards received can increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. This condition is characterized by an irregular (often rapid) heartbeat that commonly causes poor blood flow. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yoga-improves-mental-and-physical-health-among-patients-with-atrial-fibrillation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atrial fibrillation</a> (also known as AFib or AF) is the most frequent form of arrhythmia and can lead to stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. Over 12 million people are projected to have atrial fibrillation in the United States by 2030.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-work-related-stress-and-atrial-fibrillation-nbsp">Work-related stress and atrial fibrillation&nbsp;</h2>



Previous studies connected high job strain and effort-reward imbalance at work with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. However, this research is the first to investigate the adverse effect of these psychosocial stressors at work on atrial fibrillation.&nbsp;



Study senior author Dr. Xavier Trudel is an occupational and cardiovascular epidemiologist and associate professor at Laval University in Canada.



“Our study suggests that work-related stressors may be relevant factors to include in preventive strategies,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;



“Recognizing and addressing psychosocial stressors at work are required to foster healthy work environments that benefit both individuals and the organizations where they work.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-job-strain-and-effort-reward-imbalance-nbsp">Job strain and effort-reward imbalance&nbsp;</h2>



The experts examined the impact of job strain, which refers to a work environment in which employees struggle with high job demands, such as a heavy workload and tight deadlines, along with low control over their work and lack of decision-making in how they execute their work-related tasks.



Another factor assessed was the effort-reward imbalance. This phenomenon occurs when employees invest major efforts into their work but perceive the rewards they get for this work&nbsp; (such as salary, recognition, or job security) as or unequal to their performance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-impacts-of-work-related-stress-nbsp">Heart impacts of work-related stress&nbsp;</h2>



By examining medical database records for almost 6,000 adults in white-collar jobs in Canada, with 18 years of follow-up data, the researchers found that employees experiencing high job strain had an 83% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation than workers unaffected by such stressors.



The experts also found that those who experienced an effort-reward imbalance had a 44% greater risk than workers who did not report this imbalance.



Furthermore, the study showed that combined experiences of high job strain and effort-reward imbalance were linked to a 97% increased risk of AFib.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



According to Dr. Trudel, the effectiveness of workplace interventions to reduce psychosocial stressors that may also reduce the risk of AFib should be investigated in future research.&nbsp;



“Our research team previously conducted an organizational intervention designed to reduce psychosocial stressors at work, which was shown to effectively reduce blood pressure levels,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;



“Examples of organizational changes implemented during the intervention included slowing down the implementation of a large project to prevent increased workload; implementing flexible work hours; and holding meetings between managers and employees to discuss day-to-day challenges.”



Some of the limitations of this study include that all participants were white-collar workers in Canada, which means that the results may not apply to other types of workers or to workers in other countries.



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



The scientists collected data through the PROspective Quebec (PROQ) Study on Work and Health, which was initiated in the Quebec region in 1991-1993 and recruited white-collar workers from 19 public and semi-public organizations.



The analysis was focused on 5,926 workers (49% men, 51% women), with an average age of 45 at the beginning of the study (1999-2001) and 65 at the end of the follow-up (Dec. 2018), were included. Levels of work stress were assessed through self-reported questionnaires.&nbsp;



The experts controlled for a broad number of socioeconomic characteristics (sex, education), health risks (diabetes, high blood pressure) and lifestyle factors (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoking-among-teens-has-declined-dramatically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a>, drinking alcohol).



Overall, the researchers identified 186 AFib cases. Among that group, 19% reported high job strain, 25% reported effort-reward imbalance, and 10% reported experiencing both of&nbsp; these stressors at the same time.



The study showed that over one third of all participants had been diagnosed with coronary heart disease or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydration-reduces-the-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart failure</a> before developing AFib.



The research is published in the <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.032414" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Heart Association</a>. 



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Work-related stress linked to serious heart condition

New research reveals that work-related stress caused by job strain...

The merger of two black holes embodies a complex interplay of gravitational forces that twist, twirl, and ultimately collide, generating ripples and waves that resonate throughout the cosmos. 



These ripples, known as gravitational waves, are subtle distortions so refined that detecting them necessitates extraordinary precision.



Since 2015, we have made significant strides in capturing these faint cosmic echoes, facilitated by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (<a href="https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LIGO</a>). However, we now stand on the brink of a transformative advancement that promises to bring cosmic phenomena into the confines of a laboratory.



Enter <a href="https://groups.oist.jp/tqm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Nic Shannon</a>, the head of the Theory of Quantum Matter Unit at the Okinawa Institute for Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.oist.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OIST</a>). He leads an exceptional team that has successfully replicated the behavior of these gravitational waves using cold atoms within a quantum condensate.



This innovative approach opens up a new frontier for exploring these elusive ripples in a controlled experimental environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-particles-and-gravitational-waves">Quantum particles and gravitational waves</h2>



Albert Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in his <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory of general relativity</a>. These cosmic ripples transport vital information about their sources and the fabric of space-time itself. Imagine tuning into a cosmic symphony, with gravitational waves playing the keynotes.



That said, turning up the volume on this cosmic symphony is a formidable task. Only the mightiest of cosmic events -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-might-be-driving-force-behind-black-hole-mergers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole mergers</a>, supernovae explosions -- can produce gravitational waves intense enough for our present detectors, like LIGO in the U.S. and the Virgo interferometer in Europe, to capture.



Professor Shannon, senior author of the study and head of the unit, explains that Einstein's theory of general relativity revolutionized our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matter-spacetime-gravitational-waves-fabric-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space and time</a>.



"It taught us that space can bend to form a black hole and that it can vibrate, creating waves that travel across the universe at the speed of light," he says.



These gravitational waves hold crucial information about our universe, but they are extremely difficult to detect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravitational-waves-and-bec">Gravitational waves and BEC</h2>



Professor Shannon and his team are taking a fresh approach, revisiting Earth-based phenomena that echo aspects of general relativity. They've introduced a novel way to examine gravitational waves without needing gigantic telescopes.



Their research, carried out with scholars from the <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tohoku</a> and the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, hinges on a quantum phenomenon involving ultracold atoms -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bose-einstein-condensate-bec-rare-form-quantum-matter-created-with-molecules/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC)</a>.



When the temperature of bosons, a type of quantum particle, is reduced to nearly absolute zero, they behave as a single quantum entity. This collective conduct paves the way for researchers to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trapped-atoms-forced-to-serve-as-transistors-quantum-network/">reproduce the conditions</a> that spawn gravitational waves.



Professor Han Yan from the University of Tokyo articulates why this novel approach matters, saying, "This result is important because it makes it possible to simulate and study gravitational waves in a much simpler experimental setting."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-spin-nematic-state">Creating a spin-nematic state</h2>



At OIST, the research team is delving into a fascinating type of Bose-Einstein condensate (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BEC</a>) known as spin nematics. In this captivating spin-nematic state, quantum particles display unique behaviors that enable them to transmit energy throughout the system.



How do they accomplish this? By generating waves that strikingly resemble gravitational waves.



"We realized that the properties of the waves in the spin-nematic state are mathematically identical to those of gravitational waves," explained Professor Shannon.



These waves not only facilitate energy transfer but also pave the way for deeper understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> and its potential applications in cutting-edge technologies.



The study of spin nematics holds the promise of uncovering insights into quantum phase transitions and the fundamental nature of matter, particularly at low temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-physics-and-gravitational-waves">Quantum physics and gravitational waves</h2>



Bridging the study of gravitational waves and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coldest-quantum-detectors-in-the-world-enlisted-to-search-for-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum physics of cold atoms</a> has led to new possibilities.



Dr. Leilee Chojnacki, a lead author of the study, describes this as an opportunity to unite different branches of physics in a novel way.



She says, "It was very exciting for me to work on two very different branches of physics and bring them together in a way that hadn't previously been explored."



The ability to simulate gravitational waves in a laboratory ushers in a brand-new era. This method presents an opportunity to conduct experiments impossible with traditional gravitational wave detectors due to their sheer size and complexity.



The profound unity of nature shines through this research. Mathematical principles can explain both colossal cosmic phenomena and microscopic quantum interactions. It's a testament to the elegance and interconnectedness of our physical world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-einstein-s-legacy-in-a-quantum-world">Einstein’s legacy in a quantum world</h2>



The leap forward that Professor Shannon and his team have made in simulating gravitational waves in a lab has broadened our understanding of the universe. 



Their work not only deepens our grasp of gravitational waves but also showcases the power of integrating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravity-measured-in-the-quantum-realm-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different scientific disciplines</a>.



Through bridging the cosmic and the quantum, they've unlocked new paths of exploration, illuminating some of the deepest mysteries of our universe. Indeed, when scientists dare to think differently, the boundaries of human knowledge expand, and new horizons open up.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prb/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevB.109.L220407" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review B</a>.



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Quantum solution discovered for the gravitational wave mystery

The merger of two black holes embodies a complex interplay...

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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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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[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



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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" 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> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" 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.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



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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" 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> 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



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.

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

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