You've undoubtedly noticed that the Moon has two distinct sides, right? The near side that we see from Earth and the far side that remains a mystery because it is never turned towards us.



This unusual lunar characteristic -- a global dichotomy -- is what a team of scientists led by Professor XU Yigang from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry (<a href="http://english.gig.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GIGCAS</a>) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been investigating.



They have been studying lunar soil samples collected from the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin on the far side of the Moon, and returned to Earth by China's <a href="https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=CHANG-E-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chang’e-6 mission</a>.



These invaluable samples have allowed them to investigate the Moon's peculiar dichotomy and the results have shed light on some of its secrets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-chang-e-6">What is Chang’e-6?</h2>



The Chinese space program launched Chang'e 6, their latest Moon mission, on May 3, 2024. The spacecraft blasted off from Wenchang Satellite Launch Center on a Long March 5 rocket at 9:27 UT (that's 5:27 PM Beijing time). 



Their goal? To grab about four pounds (2 kg) of Moon rocks from the far side - something no one had done before.



The lander touched down in a huge crater called the South Pole Aitken Basin. The team used both a scoop and a drill to dig up surface samples and even went 2 meters deep into the lunar soil. 



They also sent out a small rover that cruised around taking snapshots of the lander doing its work.



Once they collected the samples, the crew packed them into an ascent vehicle sitting on top of the lander. 



On June 3 at 11:38 PM UT (7:38 AM Beijing time the next day), this vehicle shot up from the Moon's surface and met up with the orbiter waiting above. They made the handoff on June 6, 2024.



After ditching the ascent vehicle (which crashed back into the Moon), the return vehicle hung around in orbit for a couple weeks before heading home. 



It pulled off a tricky skip-entry through Earth's atmosphere and landed in Inner Mongolia's Siziwang Banner region on June 25 at 6:07 UT (2:07 PM Beijing time). 



The final haul? Roughly 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg) of Moon rocks and soil from the far side -- marking another big win for China's space program.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-far-side-vs-visible-side-of-the-moon">Far side vs. visible side of the Moon</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon's</a> dichotomy is visible in its topography, chemical composition, crustal thickness, evidence of volcanism and, most noticeably, in the difference in geomorphology between its near and far sides.



The near side of the Moon is home to the familiar "man in the moon" maria - the dark "seas" that are the result of ancient volcanic activity. 



These areas were flooded with molten lava that created rocks known as mare basalts.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_diagram_credit-YANG-Muhan_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_diagram_credit-YANG-Muhan_1s.webp" alt="Distribution of distinct volcanic episodes on the Moon’s farside. The remote sensing image highlights the Chang’e-6 landing site along with nearby mare and cryptomare basaltic units. Credit: Image by YANG Muhan" class="wp-image-1950782"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Distribution of distinct volcanic episodes on the Moon’s farside. The remote sensing image highlights the Chang’e-6 landing site along with nearby mare and cryptomare basaltic units. Credit: Image by YANG Muhan</figcaption></figure>



How about the far side? Well, here's where it gets intriguing. Only about 2% of this hidden part of the Moon is covered in the basalts, compared to around 30% on the near side.



This inexplicable difference is a vital part of the lunar global dichotomy that the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program aims to unravel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-the-moon-s-far-side">Secrets of the Moon's far side</h2>



Thanks to the Chang’e-6 lunar soil samples, Professor XU's team discovered the existence of two different types of mare basalts, low-Ti, and very low-Ti (VLT). 



“The samples returned by Chang’e-6 provide a best opportunity to investigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> global dichotomy,” said Professor XU.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-eruptions_basalt-types_credit-GIGCAS_1s.webp" alt="The two types of basalts in Chang’e-6 soils and isochrons of the Chang’e-6 low-Ti basalt. Credit: GIGCAS" class="wp-image-1950784"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The two types of basalts in Chang’e-6 soils and isochrons of the Chang’e-6 low-Ti basalt. Credit: GIGCAS</figcaption></figure>



Let's not dismiss the aspect of dating these samples either. With high-precision Pb-Pb dating techniques, the team determined that the low-Ti basalt dates back to around 2.83 billion years ago.



This attests to the presence of "young" magmatism or volcanic activities on the far side of the Moon. But of course, young is a relative term when we talk about 2.83 billion years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-history-of-volcanoes">Mapping the history of volcanoes</h2>



With such valuable information now in our hands, we can clearly chart the volcanic timeline on the far side of the Moon. 



Led by Professor LI Qiuli, the team conducted radioisotope dating on 108 basalt fragments, with 107 of them revealing a consistent formation age of 2807 million years ago.



But there's more. One fragment, a high-aluminum basalt, was dated to a monumental 4203 million years ago, making it the oldest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvest-moon-2024-will-feature-a-partial-lunar-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> basalt for which age has been precisely determined.



This implies elevated levels of volcanic activity on the far side of the Moon for at least 1.4 billion years - between 4.2 billion and 2.8 billion years ago.



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



These findings, available for everyone to dissect, can help recalibrate the existing lunar crater chronology models. 



Christopher Hamilton, an independent planetary volcano expert, emphasized the importance of obtaining samples from this previously unchartered lunar territory.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_Change-6-mission_landing_credit-CLEP_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/moon_farside_volcanic-episodes_Change-6-mission_landing_credit-CLEP_1s.webp" alt="China's Chang’e-6 mission spacecraft landed on the far side of the Moon. Credit: CLAP" class="wp-image-1950787"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">China's Chang’e-6 mission spacecraft landed on the far side of the Moon. Credit: CLAP </figcaption></figure>



More than just understanding the Moon, these lunar soil samples also have implications for some broad astronomical theories.



The new data indicates a constant impact flux after 2.83 billion years, which can offer new insights into planet migration in the early Solar System. 



So, by looking at the Moon, we are indirectly learning about our own cosmic neighborhood as well!



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



With more missions like the Chang'e-6, the future will undoubtedly bring many enlightening discoveries about our constant celestial companion.



In the end, we see that the Moon, despite its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-may-have-captured-the-moon-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">familiar appearance</a>, still hides untold secrets waiting to be discovered. 



These lunar missions represent a new age of lunar and planetary exploration that pushes the boundaries of our understanding.



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The researchers from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> express their gratitude for the support received from various institutes such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. These institutions' enduring support enables such important lunar explorations.



The study is published in the journals <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08382-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> and <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adt1093" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Far side of the Moon had volcanic eruptions for over one billion years

You've undoubtedly noticed that the Moon has two distinct sides, right? The near side that we see from Earth and the far side that remains a mystery because it is never turned towards us. This unusual lunar characteristic -- a global dichotomy -- is what a team of scientists led by Professor XU Yigang from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry (GIGCAS) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been investigating. They have been studying lunar soil samples collected from the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin on the far...

Earth,And,Sun.,Elements,Of,This,Image,Furnished,By,Nasa

On a seemingly ordinary Thursday at 22:34 GMT (17:34 EST), the sun unleashed a massive solar flare, marking the most significant such event in seven years. This phenomenon represents a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/solar-flare_strongest-7-years_NOAA-warnings_NASA_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">powerful explosion</a> within the sun's atmosphere, illuminating the intricate dance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ongoing-solar-storms-spectacular-auroras-and-radio-blackouts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial forces at play</a>.



Solar flares, as NASA elucidates, are intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bursts of radiation</a> emanating from the sun's surface. These eruptions can cause significant disturbances on Earth, affecting everything from power grids and navigation signals to spacecraft and astronauts. 



Despite their potential for disruption, they also gift us with the ethereal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steve-phenomenon-looks-like-an-aurora-acts-like-an-aurora-but-what-is-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beauty of auroras</a>, painting the sky with vibrant colors visible near the Earth's poles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-flare-x6-3-event">Solar flare X6.3 event</h2>



The recent flare, classified as an X6.3 event, is part of a series of flares that have occurred since Wednesday, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (<a href="https://www.noaa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a>). 



While not as monumental as the flares of September 2017, which included an X9.3 and an X8.2, this event underscores the sun's ever-present capacity for awe-inspiring displays of energy. 



The classification system for solar flares, ranging from A to X, with X being the most severe, highlights the varying degrees of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-massive-solar-flare-struck-earth-on-monday-but-what-does-this-mean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar phenomena</a>.



This week's X6.3 flare stands out as the largest of its kind during the current solar cycle, a period marked by the sun's magnetic field undergoing a complete reversal approximately every 11 years. We are currently in cycle 25, which began in 2019 and is anticipated to last until about 2030. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-auroras-and-potential-gps-and-satellite-disruptions">Auroras and potential GPS and satellite disruptions</h2>



The cycle's progression influences the sun's activity levels, from the tranquility of the solar minimum to the tumultuous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-storms-will-intensify-then-slow-as-the-solar-cycle-peaks-in-early-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar maximum</a>, characterized by an increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-archipelago-15-times-wider-than-earth-spotted-by-nasa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunspots</a> and solar flares.



The implications of such solar activity extend beyond the confines of space, touching down on Earth with the potential for both disruption and natural wonder. 



The particles ejected by solar flares, taking roughly two days to reach Earth, can ignite the sky with auroras -- a spectacle traditionally confined to regions close to the poles but sometimes visible further afield under favorable conditions.



Beyond their visual majesty, solar flares and the related coronal mass ejections (CMEs) pose challenges to our increasingly technology-dependent world. 



High-speed solar winds emanating from coronal holes, areas on the sun where magnetic fields open into space, can exacerbate these effects, leading to auroras and disruptions in communication systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noaa-solar-flare-forecast-discussion">NOAA solar flare forecast discussion</h2>



As mentioned above, the most striking event was the production of an X6.3/3b flare by Active Region (AR) 3590, situated at N18E26. This flare, recorded at 22:34 UTC on February 22nd, stands as the largest flare observed in this solar cycle, underscoring the dynamic nature of our sun. 



Accompanying this event was a tenflare, reaching a peak of 240 Solar Flux Units (SFU) at 22:25 UTC the same day. Despite the magnitude of this flare, no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a> (CMEs) were detected, indicating a lack of significant outward material ejection from the sun's corona.



In parallel, new solar regions have been identified and monitored. New Region 3591, located at S34E77, exhibited a moderate M1.5 flare early at 00:14 UTC on the same day. 



Additional regions, 3592 (S12E78) and 3593 (S04W58), have also been cataloged, though they remained relatively inactive during the observed period. The absence of Earth-directed CMEs during this time provides a somewhat reassuring outlook for our planet's near-term space weather environment.



Looking ahead, experts anticipate sustained high solar activity through February 25th, with M-class flares expected to occur frequently. There is also a potential for X-class flares, given the recent activities of ARs 3590 and 3591. 



This forecast underscores the ongoing vigilance required in monitoring solar phenomena and their potential impacts on space weather.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-particles-and-their-influence">Energetic particles and their influence</h3>



Over the past 24 hours, the solar system has experienced near-background levels of proton flux above 10 MeV, while electron flux levels above 2 MeV have been observed at normal to moderate intensities. 



The forecast suggests a slight possibility of an S1 (Minor) proton event occurring within the next three days (February 23rd to 25th), primarily due to the potential activity from AR3590. 



Additionally, the electron flux is expected to maintain its current levels, contributing to the overall energetic particle dynamics within Earth's vicinity.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-wind-solar-flares-and-cme">Solar wind, solar flares, and CME</h3>



The solar wind environment has maintained nominal levels, with total field strength peaking at 7 nanoTeslas (nT) and wind speeds averaging near 325 km/s. 



A noteworthy shift occurred when the solar wind's magnetic polarity switched from positive to negative around 09:00 UTC on February 23rd. 



Forecasts predict these nominal conditions to persist through February 24th, with the influence of a CME and a Coronal Hole High Speed Stream (CH HSS) anticipated on February 25th. 



This event is expected to pass ahead of Earth's orbit, potentially influencing the solar wind conditions encountered by our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geospace-outlook-emerging-storm-potential">Geospace outlook: Emerging storm potential</h2>



The geomagnetic field has exhibited quiet conditions, while the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) has returned to background levels. The immediate forecast indicates a continuation of these quiet conditions through February 24th. 



However, a shift is expected on February 25th when G1 (Minor) storm levels are likely to be reached. This change is attributed to the combined effects of the February 21st CME, related to a filament eruption, and the impact of a CH HSS. 



These phenomena highlight the interconnected nature of solar and geomagnetic activity, as well as the importance of continuous monitoring to predict and mitigate potential impacts on Earth and its technological systems.



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



In summary, NASA's recent capture of the most powerful solar flare in seven years marks a significant event in our ongoing observation of solar phenomena. 



This X6.3 class flare, emanating from the sun's atmosphere, underscores the dynamic and sometimes volatile nature of our closest star. 



The NOAA warns of the potential for disruptions to Earth's technological infrastructure, including power grids and navigation systems, while also promising the breathtaking spectacle of auroras across polar skies. 



As we <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-the-fastest-human-made-object-ever-nasas-parker-solar-probe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continue to monitor</a> these solar activities through the vigilant eyes of agencies like NASA and NOAA, we gain valuable insights into the sun's cycles and their broader implications for both Earth and space. 



This event serves as a vivid reminder of the sun's power and the delicate balance between its beauty and its potential to impact human technology and space exploration.



The full NASA report can <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">be found here…</a>



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Strongest solar flare in 7 years prompts auroras and satellite warnings

On a seemingly ordinary Thursday at 22:34 GMT (17:34 EST),...

February's full Moon will light up the sky on the morning of Saturday, February 24, 2024, offering a celestial spectacle known as the Snow Moon. This particular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suicide-rate-increases-during-the-week-of-a-full-moon/">full moon</a> is classified as a "Micromoon," a term that contrasts with the more commonly known "supermoon."



The micromoon occurs when the full moon is at apogee, or its farthest point from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-earth-discovered-in-the-habitable-zone-of-its-star/">Earth</a>, making it appear slightly smaller in the sky compared to when it's at its closest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-snow-moon-is-a-micromoon">This "Snow Moon" is a Micromoon</h2>



The name "Snow Moon" comes from the traditional naming conventions that reflect the seasonal characteristics or activities of the time. February, often being the peak month for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/">snowfall</a> in many parts of the United States, earns the full moon of this month its chilly moniker.&nbsp;



This naming practice draws from a variety of sources, including Native American, Colonial American, and European traditions, which often named the lunar months after natural events or societal activities occurring at that time.



For instance, in the 1760s, Captain Jonathan Carver, during a visit at the&nbsp;Dakota reservation, wrote that the name used for this period was the Snow Moon, “because more snow commonly falls during this month than any other in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reindeer-use-ultraviolet-vision-to-find-food-in-the-winter/">winter</a>.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-names">Alternative names</h2>



The Snow Moon's alternative names also reveal a lot about the month of February. For example, it is also known as the Bald Eagle Moon, Eagle Moon (Cree), Bear Moon (Ojibwe), Black Bear Moon (Tlingit), Raccoon Moon (Dakota), Groundhog Moon (Algonquin), and Goose Moon (Haida) in various cultures, highlighting the connection to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-the-first-animals-appear-on-earth-we-are-now-one-step-closer-to-knowing-the-answer/">animal world</a> and the natural cycles of life during this period.&nbsp;



Additionally, names like the Bony Moon and Hungry Moon (Cherokee) underscore the scarcity of food resources that communities historically faced at this time of year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-captivating-event">Captivating event</h2>



For those eager to catch a glimpse of this wintry full moon, it's advisable to look towards the sky on the night of Friday, February 23, or after sunset on Saturday, February 24. The Snow Moon will rise in the east and reach its zenith around midnight, offering a splendid view, despite its micromoon status.&nbsp;



While the reduced size and brightness might not be evident to the naked eye due to the Moon Illusion, the event still promises to be a captivating sight for moon gazers everywhere.



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



As discussed above, a Micromoon, an intriguing celestial event, occurs when the moon is at its apogee, the farthest point from Earth in its elliptical orbit. 



This astronomical occurrence contrasts with the more widely recognized "Supermoon," where the moon appears larger and brighter in the sky due to its proximity to Earth. 



During a Micromoon, the moon appears slightly smaller and dimmer to observers on Earth, offering a unique visual experience.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-micromoons-affect-humans">How Micromoons affect humans</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visual-differences">Visual Differences</h4>



The visual impact of a Micromoon is subtle yet noticeable. When compared to a Supermoon, a Micromoon may appear up to 14% smaller and 30% less bright. 



This size and brightness difference can significantly affect how we perceive the moon, especially when photographed next to landmarks or the horizon.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-scientific-significance">Cultural and Scientific Significance</h4>



Micromoons hold a special place in both cultural traditions and scientific study. Various cultures interpret the appearance of a Micromoon through myths and legends, often seeing it as a sign of change or a symbol of humility. 



Scientifically, Micromoons provide astronomers and astrophotographers a different perspective on lunar observation, enabling detailed studies of the moon's surface and its relation to Earth.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-practices-for-viewing-micromoons">Best practices for viewing micromoons</h3>



To experience a Micromoon, find a location away from city lights with a clear view of the sky. Although the differences are less pronounced than those of a Supermoon, using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the viewing experience, allowing observers to appreciate the moon's reduced size and brightness.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-micromoons">Predicting Micromoons</h3>



Micromoons occur periodically throughout the year, usually coinciding with the moon's apogee once every month. However, not all apogees result in a Micromoon. 



For a Micromoon to be officially recognized, it must also coincide with the full moon phase, making these events somewhat rarer and more special to witness.



In summary, micromoons invite us to look up and notice the subtle nuances of our natural satellite. These celestial events encourage both amateur stargazers and professional astronomers to explore the night sky with renewed interest and curiosity. 



By understanding and appreciating the phenomenon of Micromoons, we can deepen our connection to the cosmos and the ever-changing nature of our celestial surroundings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-myths-and-legends-about-full-moons">Myths and legends about full moons</h2>



Full moon myths and legends span across cultures and history, reflecting humanity's fascination and awe for the night sky. The full moon has often been associated with magic, transformation, and mystery, serving as a backdrop for various stories and beliefs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-werewolves">Werewolves</h3>



In many cultures, the full moon is linked to werewolves, creatures who transform from humans into wolves. This legend is prevalent in European folklore, where it's believed that a person bitten by a werewolf or under a certain curse can become a werewolf themselves, especially during a full moon.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-native-american-folklore">Native American folklore</h3>



In Native American folklore, the full moon is often associated with spiritual significance and the timing of rituals. For example, some people believe that the full moon brings a time of cleansing and renewal, and they conduct ceremonies to honor it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asian-cultures">Asian cultures</h3>



In Asia, the Moon Rabbit or Jade Rabbit is a popular mythological figure in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures. According to legend, this rabbit lives on the moon and is seen pounding the elixir of life for the immortals, or in some versions, pounding the ingredients for rice cake. This myth is celebrated during the Mid-Autumn Festival, where mooncakes are eaten in homage to the lunar deity.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greek-mythology">Greek mythology</h3>



The ancient Greeks associated the full moon with Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth. Artemis was believed to illuminate the night sky with her beauty and was revered during the full moon.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-madness-and-lunacy-nbsp">Madness and lunacy&nbsp;</h3>



In many cultures, the full moon is also linked to madness and lunacy, a belief so strong that it even influenced the English language. The term "lunacy" is derived from Luna, the Roman goddess of the moon. Despite scientific studies debunking the correlation between the full moon and erratic behavior, the notion persists in popular culture.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-moon-s-influence">The moon's influence</h3>



The full moon's influence on human behavior, fertility, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-carbon-footprint-urban-farms-and-agriculture/">agriculture</a> is another widespread belief. Some farmers still follow moon phases for planting and harvesting, adhering to ancient practices that suggest crops sown during certain lunar phases grow better.



These myths and legends, while varying greatly across different cultures, underscore the moon's universal appeal and its powerful place in human imagination and spirituality.



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"Micromoon" celestial event will dazzle the skies tonight

February's full Moon will light up the sky on the...

Once vibrant and sprawling, coral reefs are now shrinking at an alarming pace. Imagine an entire state like Georgia losing all of its trees in just a few decades - that's the devastating speed at which coral reefs are vanishing.



However, a recent discovery by leading scientist Mark Hay and his colleague Cody Clements from <a href="https://gatech.edu/node/1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Institute of Technology</a> offers a glimmer of hope. The experts have identified an unexpected, yet crucial factor in the health and survival of coral reefs: sea cucumbers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-underwater-rainforests">Underwater rainforests</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-coral-reefs-crackle-with-the-sounds-of-busy-inhabitants/">Coral reefs</a>, also known as underwater rainforests, support a vast array of marine creatures and shield coastlines from storms and erosion. However, these vital resources are declining due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Experts emphasize the need for their conservation.&nbsp;



“It’s like if all the pine trees in Georgia disappeared over a period of 30 to 40 years,” said Hay. “Just imagine how that affects biodiversity and ecosystems of the ocean.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-reefs-and-sea-cucumbers">Coral reefs and sea cucumbers</h2>



While often overlooked, sea cucumbers play a crucial role in keeping coral reefs healthy and stable. These creatures, resembling soft, leathery cucumbers, are found on the ocean floor all over the world.&nbsp;



Sea cucumbers belong to the same group as starfish and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-identify-the-parasite-causing-mass-mortality-in-sea-urchins/">sea urchins</a>, known as echinoderms. Their primary function is to break down debris and recycle nutrients, a critical process for maintaining healthy and balanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-stress-causes-undetected-changes-in-marine-ecosystems/">marine ecosystems</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-removal-of-sea-cucumbers">Removal of sea cucumbers</h2>



The scientists conducted a unique experiment in French Polynesia and Palmyra Atoll. They carefully removed sea cucumbers from specific areas of the reef, while leaving other areas untouched. This allowed the team to directly compare the health of corals with and without the presence of sea cucumbers.&nbsp;



By studying the consequences of removing these creatures, the researchers gained insights into their role in protecting corals from disease and death. The experiment was designed to closely resemble natural conditions, ensuring that the results accurately reflect the true impact of sea cucumbers on coral reef health.&nbsp;



The study revealed the important, but often underestimated, role sea cucumbers play in protecting coral reefs from disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decrease-in-coral-reefs">Decrease in coral reefs</h2>



The experts found that coral reefs where sea cucumbers have been removed experience much higher rates of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-oceans-intensify-viruses-that-kill-coral-reefs/">coral disease</a> and death.&nbsp;



Sea cucumbers play a vital role in keeping the sand and soil around coral reefs clean. They act like natural vacuum cleaners, eating bits of dead plants and animal waste that sink to the bottom. This constant cleaning helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and other substances that could harm the coral.&nbsp;



The study shows that by removing these potentially harmful materials, sea cucumbers help create a healthier environment for the coral to thrive, making them less likely to get sick.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recycling-nutrients">Recycling nutrients</h2>



Sea cucumbers aren't just reef janitors; they're crucial for keeping the entire ecosystem healthy. They act like recyclers by eating dead plants and animals on the seafloor. Inside their bodies, these materials are broken down and transformed into essential nutrients. These nutrients are then released back into the water, functioning like fertilizer for the diverse creatures living in the reef.



Without sea cucumbers, the reef faces a double threat. First, the absence of their cleaning action allows organic matter to accumulate, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria and substances that can damage the corals. Second, the missing link in the nutrient cycle creates an imbalance.&nbsp;



Without sea cucumbers converting organic matter into usable nutrients, the reef loses its nutritional foundation, impacting the overall well-being and diversity of life in the ecosystem. This can affect not only the corals themselves, but everything that depends on them for survival.



“If you remove all the scum suckers in the great fish tank of Earth, you’re going to get a dirty tank eventually,” said Clements. “People have paid lip service to the idea that sea cucumbers could be important for a long time, but we didn’t know the scale of their importance until now.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-of-extinction-nbsp">Threat of extinction&nbsp;</h2>



The study reveals a worrying issue: sea cucumber populations, once plentiful in many regions, are now decreasing rapidly due to being caught in large numbers.&nbsp;



The high demand for sea cucumbers in certain foods and traditional medicine has led to a significant drop in their numbers. Sea cucumbers are a crucial food source for many marine animals, and their disappearance would cause a ripple effect throughout the food chain, potentially leading to population decline in other species. This would ultimately reduce the variety of life in the ocean (biodiversity).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sea-cucumber-conservation-nbsp">Sea cucumber conservation&nbsp;</h2>



Sea cucumbers are crucial to healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-atlantic-ocean-may-soon-enter-its-declining-phase/">oceans</a>, but they face threats from overharvesting.&nbsp; “If we don’t cut back on pollution, if we don’t cut back on overharvesting, and if we don’t cut back on global warming, there isn’t much hope. It’s a challenge, but you can either give up and go home, or you can keep working on it,” said Dr. Clements.&nbsp;



To ensure their survival and protect marine ecosystems, we need to take several steps. We must regulate how many sea cucumbers can be caught to prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-is-a-major-threat-to-coral-reef-fish/">overfishing</a>.&nbsp;



In addition, the creation of marine protected areas would establish specific areas of the ocean where sea cucumbers could thrive without being disturbed. Furthermore, adopting sustainable trade practices - which prioritize responsible harvesting and consumption - is essential.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45730-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Sea cucumbers protect coral reefs from disease and death

Once vibrant and sprawling, coral reefs are now shrinking at...

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, our solar system might seem like a mere speck, yet it continues to reveal new wonders. Recently, astronomers announced the discovery of three additional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-four-uranus-moons-may-have-oceans-that-are-miles-deep/">moons</a>: two in orbit around Neptune and one circling Uranus.&nbsp;



Uranus and Neptune, the solar system's ice giants, are composed primarily of a dense fluid of icy materials such as water, methane, and ammonia, above a small rocky core.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-nbsp">A new perspective&nbsp;</h2>



Recent imagery has corrected misconceptions about their appearance, showing that both planets are more similar in color than previously thought. Contrary to the deep blue images captured by Voyager 2, Neptune's true color is a pale bluish-green, closely resembling Uranus, and offering a new perspective on these distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/">worlds</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-new-moons-nbsp">Three new moons&nbsp;</h2>



The newly identified moon of Uranus, which is the first discovery of its kind in over two decades, is believed to be the planet's smallest, with a diameter of merely five miles. The discoveries at Neptune include the dimmest moon ever detected with ground-based telescopes.



With these findings, Neptune's tally of moons increases to 16, and Uranus' count to 28, though these numbers pale in comparison to the moon collections of Jupiter and Saturn, the solar system's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trillions-of-rogue-planets-may-be-wandering-alone-in-our-galaxy/">planets</a>, which boast 95 and 146 moons, respectively, with numbers that continue to grow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-special-image-processing-nbsp">Special image processing&nbsp;</h2>



The team, led by Dr. Scott S. Sheppard from the <a href="https://carnegiescience.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carnegie Institution for Science</a>, identified these celestial bodies orbiting the solar system's two furthest planets, more than 30 million miles away.&nbsp;



"The three newly discovered moons are the faintest ever found around these two ice giant planets using ground-based telescopes," Sheppard said. "It took special image processing to reveal such faint objects."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smallest-moon-of-uranus-nbsp">Smallest moon of Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



The Uranian moon, temporarily named S/2023 U1, awaits a permanent name that will align with the tradition of naming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-photo-of-uranus-and-its-rings-and-moons-captured-by-the-webb-telescope/">Uranus</a>' moons after characters from Shakespeare's works. 



Dr. Sheppard, utilizing the Magellan telescopes at the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile, first observed this moon in November of the previous year. The moon, approximately five miles in diameter, orbits Uranus every 680 days, making it potentially the smallest moon of Uranus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neptune-s-moons">Neptune's moons</h2>



The brighter of the two new Neptunian moons, provisionally named S/2002 N5, discovered using the same telescope, measures about 14 miles across and completes an orbit in nearly nine years.&nbsp;



The other, a dimmer moon named S/2021 N1, discovered with the Subaru telescope in Hawaii, has a diameter of approximately 8.5 miles and an orbital period of nearly 27 years. These moons will eventually be named after one of the 50 Nereid sea goddesses from Greek mythology, following naming conventions for Neptunian moons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-more-moons-remain-undetected">Many more moons remain undetected</h2>



The moons are characterized by distant and eccentric orbits, suggesting they were captured by the gravitational pull of Uranus and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neptune-like-exoplanets-atmospheres-interesting-earth-size-neighbors/">Neptune</a> during or shortly after the planets' formation from the protoplanetary disk surrounding the early Sun. Earth's moon, by contrast, likely formed from the debris ejected after a Mars-sized body collided with Earth.&nbsp;



NASA believes thousands more moons await discovery within our solar system, though many remain elusive due to their small size and the limitations of even the most powerful telescopes. Moreover, spacecraft sent to explore the outer planets often miss these moons, depending on their position in their orbits.



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Three new moons discovered around Neptune and Uranus

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, our solar system...

In a world where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mind-reading-technology-transforms-thoughts-into-text/">technology</a> has become an integral part of our daily lives, the increasing use of headphones and earbuds among children has raised concerns about potential health risks. 



A national poll from the <a href="https://www.uofmhealth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan Health</a> C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital sheds light on a troubling trend: a significant number of young children, specifically those aged 5-12, are frequently using personal listening devices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extensive-use-among-younger-children-nbsp">Extensive use among younger children&nbsp;</h2>



This phenomenon is not just confined to teenagers, as traditionally thought, but has extended to even younger demographics, with two in three parents acknowledging their child's engagement with such devices.



Overall, half of the parents of children aged 5-8 reported that their elementary-aged kids use a device. Furthermore, among those children who use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/headphones-have-a-powerfully-persuasive-effect-on-listeners/">headphones</a> and earbuds, half spend at least an hour a day with them, and one in six indulge in at least two hours of daily usage.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-excessive-noise-exposure-nbsp">Excessive noise exposure&nbsp;</h2>



The extensive use of audio <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-spend-the-most-time-on-devices-but-nature-offers-a-solution/">devices</a> has prompted experts to voice concerns over the potential harm from excessive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-noise-affects-the-color-of-songbirds-beaks/">noise exposure</a>, which has traditionally been associated with singular loud events like concerts or fireworks.



“Over recent years we’ve mostly been concerned about teens overusing audio devices. But earbuds have become increasingly popular and prevalent among younger kids, exposing them to more intense noise on a regular basis,” noted Dr. Susan Woolford, pediatrician and co-director of the Mott poll.



“Noise exposure risks to young children have historically involved loud singular events like concerts or fireworks, but parents may underestimate the potential harm from excessive use of listening devices. It may be difficult to know whether their child’s exposure to noise is healthy.”



According to the survey, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-apps-to-practice-mindfulness-improves-mental-health-of-children/">children</a> are most likely to use these devices at home, school, and in the car. On the other hand, less than 10% of parents reported usage on the bus, outside, or in bed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-health-risks">Long-term health risks</h2>



The <a href="https://www.aap.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Academy of Pediatrics</a>, recognizing the growing evidence of increased noise exposure risk through personal listening devices, issued a statement in 2023 emphasizing the need to mitigate these risks for children and teens. 



Dr. Woolford said that prolonged or extreme exposure to high volumes of noise can result in long term health issues, including hearing loss or tinnitus.



“Young children are more vulnerable to potential harm from noise exposure because their auditory systems are still developing. Their ear canals are also smaller than adults, intensifying perceived sound levels,” explained Dr. Woolford.



“Tiny hair cells inside the inner ear pick up sound waves to help you hear. When these get damaged or die, hearing loss is irreversible.”



Dr. Woolford added that noise exposure among children can also affect their sleep, academic learning, language, stress levels and even blood pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-time-and-volume-limits">Setting time and volume limits</h2>



Despite the prevalent usage, only half of the parents have attempted to limit their child’s audio device usage, employing strategies such as designated break times, set hours for use, and timers. Interestingly, parents whose children use headphones for more than two hours a day are less likely to set time or volume limits.



To combat the risks associated with noise exposure through headphones and earbuds, Dr. Woolford offers practical advice to parents. She advocates for the 60/60 rule, limiting children to no more than 60 minutes of audio device usage a day at no more than 60% of the maximum volume.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-recommendations-nbsp">Further recommendations&nbsp;</h2>



“A good way to tell if an audio device is too loud is if a child wearing headphones can’t hear you when you’re an arm’s length away,” she said.



Furthermore, Dr. Woolford recommends noise-cancelling or volume-limiting headphones, ensuring children take breaks from personal listening devices, and being vigilant for early signs of hearing loss.



On the other hand, children should avoid using noise-cancelling listening devices in situations when perception of sounds is crucial for safety.



“Noise-cancelling devices may help prevent children from increasing the volume to levels that are too high,” said Dr. Woolford. “But these devices shouldn’t be used when a child is engaged in activities where it’s important to hear their surroundings for their safety, such as walking or bike riding.”



Parents should help children intentionally have daily “device-free” time, said Dr. Woolford. This may involve putting away or locking the child’s audio devices when time limits are up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-signs-of-hearing-loss-nbsp">Early signs of hearing loss&nbsp;</h2>



She also noted that if parents feel their child may be at risk of hearing loss due to using audio devices, they should check with a pediatrician, an audiologist, or an ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist.



“Early signs of hearing loss may include asking for repetition, hearing ringing noises often, speaking loudly to people nearby, delayed speech, or lack of reaction to loud noises."



“Healthcare providers may be of assistance to parents by offering a simple explanation about hearing loss to help the child understand the reasons for limiting their use of audio devices.”



The full report from the University of Michigan survey is available <a href="https://mottpoll.org/reports/can-they-hear-you-now-noise-and-headphone-use-children" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. 



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Hidden health risks of headphones and earbuds in children

In a world where technology has become an integral part...

The enduring quest to uncover <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-really-life-beyond-earth-ai-will-soon-solve-this-mystery/">life beyond Earth</a> raises profound inquiries. Are we alone in the cosmos? Does Earth hold a unique place in harboring life?  Contrary to the notion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-are-helping-astronomers-in-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/">extraterrestrial</a> beings, could life beyond our planet resemble the microbial life we share Earth with?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-life-how-it-all-began">Microbial life: How it all began</h2>



Microorganisms, the pioneers of life on Earth, have thrived for billions of years, long predating multicellular life forms, including humans.&nbsp;



Their metabolic diversity allows them to flourish in environments that humans find extreme, such as the scalding depths of hydrothermal vents, the hypersalinity of certain lakes, and even within the solid confines of rocks.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-life-on-europa-co2-discovery-by-webb-increases-the-odds/">Europa</a>, an icy moon orbiting Jupiter, captures the imagination of astrobiologists as a potential cradle for life beyond Earth. 



Despite its icy facade and surface temperatures consistently below -220°F, Europa's subglacial ocean marks it as a prime candidate for hosting life within our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-delicate-balance-of-our-solar-system/">solar system</a>. 



The presence of water is crucial for life as we understand it. Water serves as a universal solvent necessary for the biochemical reactions that sustain all known life forms. Therefore, water serves as a potentially stable habitat for organisms to thrive and evolve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europa-s-capacity-to-support-microbial-life">Europa's capacity to support microbial life</h2>



In September 2023, two independent scientific teams uncovered evidence suggesting that solid carbon dioxide (CO2) on Europa's surface likely stems from its subglacial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-atlantic-ocean-may-soon-enter-its-declining-phase/">ocean</a>. This finding, aligning with geological features indicative of material transport from beneath the ice, bolsters the case for Europa's habitability.&nbsp;



While the exact source of the CO2 remains undetermined, the identification of carbon on Europa has ignited astrobiologists' speculation about the moon's capacity to support microbial life.



Identifying biosignatures, such as organic carbon and water, is pivotal in the quest for extraterrestrial life. No single biosignature can definitively prove life's presence on distant worlds. 



But, the accumulation of multiple biosignatures on celestial bodies like Europa strengthens the argument that life possibly exists beyond Earth.



The concept of Earth-based analog sites - extreme environments on Earth that mirror conditions on distant worlds like Europa - provides invaluable insights into life's resilience in hostile settings.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-biosignatures-nbsp">Potential biosignatures&nbsp;</h2>



By studying the microbial life in these ecosystems, we gain a deeper understanding of how life can persist in environments completely inhospitable to most other life forms. These analog sites also inform researchers about potential biosignatures to look for in data from future missions to Europa.



Jill Mikucki, an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.utk.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee, Knoxville</a>, has investigated one such analog site: Blood Falls, a feature at the terminus of Taylor Glacier in Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys.&nbsp;



"It feels otherworldly to work and camp in the dry valleys," she said, further highlighting the eerie silence and the roaring winds that characterize this unique environment.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-falls">Blood Falls</h2>



Blood Falls, with its iron-rich brine that oxidizes upon contact with air, offers a glimpse into the microbial life that could exist beneath Europa's ice. 



Mikucki's research into the microbial metabolism beneath Taylor Glacier suggests an ecosystem that may have been isolated for over a million years, providing a parallel to the potential hidden worlds beneath Europa's icy crust.



"I think Blood Falls makes a great analog for ocean world studies because it is one of the few places where liquid transits from the below the ice to the surface," Mikucki added. "Additionally, it is briny, so it's like a mini ocean world that episodically spills out aliquots of subglacial fluids - and its microbial contents."



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



Future missions, including the European Space Agency's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JUICE (Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer)</a> and <a href="https://europa.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Europa Clipper</a>, are set to unveil more about Europa's icy shell, subsurface ocean, and the potential for life. 



These missions, launching in the coming years, aim to deepen our understanding of Europa and expand the horizons of life beyond Earth.



The search for life beyond Earth, whether successful or not, holds profound implications. Discovering life would challenge our understanding of life's uniqueness and diversity, potentially showing us that we are not alone in the vast expanse of space.



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Microbial life may exist on one of Jupiter’s moons

The enduring quest to uncover life beyond Earth raises profound...

Researchers have recently unveiled a fascinating aspect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-when-butterflies-evolved-and-what-plants-they-used-for-food/">butterfly evolution</a>. They found that species which are inedible and mimic each other's color patterns have also evolved similar flight behaviors to enhance their survival against predators.&nbsp;



This discovery adds a new layer to our understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-when-butterflies-evolved-and-what-plants-they-used-for-food/">butterflies</a> use both visual and behavioral mimicry to communicate their unpalatability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-the-scariest-predators-in-the-african-savannah/">predators</a>.



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



The study, conducted by a team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.york.ac.uk/">University of York</a>, utilized high-speed video footage to analyze the flight of wild butterflies in South America.&nbsp;



The experts examined the wing beat frequency and wing angles of 351 butterflies across 38 species, all of which fell into one of 10 distinct color pattern mimicry groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings-nbsp">Key findings&nbsp;</h2>



Surprisingly, the research revealed that the color pattern mimicry group a butterfly belonged to was a more significant determinant of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-habitat-influences-their-flight-behavior/">flight behavior</a> than other factors such as habitat and wing shape. This indicates that butterflies within the same mimicry group exhibit more similar flight behaviors than those that are genetically closer but display different color patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-mimicry-is-widespread-nbsp">Behavioral mimicry is widespread&nbsp;</h2>



“From an evolutionary perspective it makes sense to share the color pattern between species, to reduce the individual cost of educating predators to the fact that they don’t taste nice!” said study lead author Edd Page, a PhD student from the Department of Biology at York.



“Once a predator has tasted one, the visual clues on others indicate that they too are also inedible, but flight patterns are more complex and are influenced by several other factors such as the air temperature and the habitat the species fly in.”



“We wanted to see whether flight corresponded to color - could predators be driving the mimicry of flight as well as color patterns? We were surprised to find just how strong and widespread the behavioral mimicry is.”



The research specifically looked at the Heliconiini tribe, which consists of around 100 species and subspecies distributed across the Neotropics, each belonging to several distinct color pattern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-habitat-influences-their-flight-behavior/">mimicry</a> groups. Additionally, the study included a few species from the Ithomiine butterfly tribe, which diverged from the Heliconiini about 70 million years ago but share similar 'tiger' color patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-insights-nbsp">Fascinating insights&nbsp;</h2>



"Sharing flight behavior across multiple species seems to reinforce this ‘don’t eat me’ message. It is fascinating that this behavior has evolved between distant relatives over a long period of time," said Page, highlighting the study's implications for understanding the evolutionary strategies of these butterflies.



Professor Kanchon Dasmahapatra from the University of York's Department of Biology commented on the significance of the findings. "The extent of flight mimicry in this group of butterflies is amazing. It is a great example of how evolution shapes behavior, with selection from predators driving subtle changes which enhance the survival of individuals."



This study - published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a> - not only sheds light on the intricate ways in which butterflies have adapted to avoid predation but also sets the stage for further research into the genetic basis of such behavioral mimicry.



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Butterflies use visual and behavioral mimicry to avoid predators

Researchers have recently unveiled a fascinating aspect of butterfly evolution....

Facing the global challenge of declining fish stocks, over 190 countries have committed to establishing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/">marine protected areas</a> (MPAs) covering around one-third of the world's oceans by 2030. These designated zones, where fishing activities are regulated or prohibited, aim to support marine biodiversity recovery.&nbsp;



However, a recent study reveals the potential socioeconomic challenges these MPAs pose to coastal communities reliant on fishing for sustenance, income, and cultural heritage.



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



This analysis, led by a global team of researchers from <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>, <a href="https://www.fsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida State University</a>, the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Wildlife Fund</a>, and other organizations, reviewed over 14,000 fish surveys across 216 MPAs in 43 countries.&nbsp;



The findings underscore the effectiveness of fully protected MPAs in rejuvenating fish populations but also highlight the complexities of implementing such measures in areas where local and indigenous communities depend on fishing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ethical-considerations-nbsp">Ethical considerations&nbsp;</h2>



“In those under-resourced and culturally important areas, it would be unethical to take away local and indigenous people’s rights to harvest and eat fish,” said lead author David Gill, an assistant professor of marine science and conservation at Duke University’s Marine Lab. 



This statement highlights the ethical considerations necessary when enforcing fish <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildlife-conservation-can-help-stabilize-the-climate/">conservation</a> measures that impact traditional ways of life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-practical-compromise-nbsp">A practical compromise&nbsp;</h2>



The study suggests that multiple-use MPAs, which allow for regulated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/">fishing</a>, could serve as a practical compromise.&nbsp;



“Many people, especially those in coastal communities, have strong food, job, or cultural ties to the ocean,” said co-author Dominic Andradi-Brown, a lead marine scientist at World Wildlife Fund.&nbsp;



“Our results show that big gains for nature don't have to come at the cost of excluding people. Future ocean protection and conservation that is tailored to allow a range of uses can be successful - provided that good management is in place.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-not-all-or-nothing">It's not all or nothing</h2>



The research indicates a 97% likelihood of fish population improvement within both no-take and multiple-use MPAs, contingent upon effective management and sufficient staffing.&nbsp;



Gill advocates for a strategic combination of these MPA types, tailored to local needs. “It's not an all-or-nothing game. There are options out there to get positive results. You can get benefits from marine protected areas where fishing is allowed. But they have to be done well.”



This nuanced approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-were-not-designed-for-climate-resilience/">marine conservation</a> aims to balance ecological objectives with the socio-economic realities of coastal communities.&nbsp;



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



“A key takeaway from these results is that context matters. There is no cookie-cutter approach to effectively, and equitably, protect the world’s marine ecosystems. We need to consider what mix of conservation approaches are best for the local context and then invest in managing them fairly, and managing them well,” explained Gill.



This perspective calls for a considerate and adaptable strategy in the global effort to safeguard marine biodiversity while respecting human dependencies on marine resources.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2313205121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Fish conservation does not have to mean neglecting people

Facing the global challenge of declining fish stocks, over 190...

In a new study published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-01831-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behavior</a> on Monday, February 26, scientists have made significant strides in understanding the role of chemical neuromodulators, specifically dopamine and serotonin, in shaping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-explores-the-basis-of-social-behavior-in-the-insect-brain/">social behavior</a>. 



This research, which involved Parkinson's disease patients undergoing awake brain surgery, focused on the brain's substantia nigra, a key area for motor control and reward processing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurochemical-mechanism-nbsp">Neurochemical mechanism&nbsp;</h2>



Led by Read Montague, a computational neuroscientist at Virginia Tech, the international team uncovered a neurochemical mechanism underlying the human propensity to make decisions based on social context. This mechanism explains why individuals are more inclined to accept offers from computers than from human counterparts in decision-making games.



“When people know they're playing a computer, they play perfectly, just like mathematical economists – they do what they should do. But when they're playing a human being, they cannot help themselves. They are often driven to punish the smaller bid by rejecting it,” Montague explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-influence-on-decision-making-nbsp">Chemical influence on decision-making&nbsp;</h2>



The study utilized the "ultimatum game" to analyze patients' responses to offer splits of $20 from both human and computer players. This setup allowed the researchers to observe the dynamic interplay between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-influences-our-motivation-to-exercise/">dopamine</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/serotonin-expedite-learning-process/">serotonin</a> in real-time, offering new insights into how these chemicals influence decision-making in social contexts.



“Dopamine levels are higher when people interact with another human as opposed to a computer,” said study co-author Dan Bang, an associate professor at Aarhus University in Denmark. “And here it was important that we also measured serotonin to give us confidence that the overall response to social context is specific to dopamine.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinguishing-the-roles-of-two-neurotransmitters-nbsp">Distinguishing the roles of two neurotransmitters&nbsp;</h2>



“The unique twist with our method is that it allows us to measure more than one neurotransmitter at a time - the impact of that should not be lost. We’ve seen these signaling molecules before, but this is the first time we’ve seen them dance. No one has ever seen this dance of dopamine and serotonin in a social context before,” said study co-author Seth Batten, senior research associate in Montague’s lab.



Ken Kishida, a co-author and associate professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, discussed the challenges of interpreting the electrochemical signals, which were addressed through advanced machine-learning tools. These tools helped distinguish the specific roles of dopamine and serotonin from the raw data collected during surgery.



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



The implications of this research extend beyond understanding social behavior, offering potential insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-movement-and-parkinsons-disease/">Parkinson’s disease</a> pathology and other brain disorders. Montague expressed hope that their findings could eventually contribute to better clinical outcomes for Parkinson's patients, given the disease's impact on dopamine-producing neurons.



Michael Friedlander, executive director of the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, praised the study's potential to revolutionize neuroscience and psychiatric treatment. He highlighted the importance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-movement-and-parkinsons-disease/">dopamine</a>, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters in psychiatric disorders, suggesting that this research could lead to more precise and effective treatments.



“We have an enormous number of people in the world who suffer from a variety of psychiatric conditions, and, in many cases, the pharmacological solutions do not work very well,” said Friedlander, who is also Virginia Tech’s vice president of health sciences and technology.&nbsp;



“Dopamine, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters are in some ways intimately involved with those disorders. This effort adds real precision and quantitation to understand those problems. The one thing I think we can be sure of is this work is going to be extremely important in the future for developing treatments.”



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



This study marks a culmination of over a decade of effort by Montague and his team to measure neurotransmitters in real-time in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-computer-that-operates-just-like-the-human-brain/">human brain</a>, opening new avenues for understanding the neurochemical underpinnings of human cognition and behavior.



“We've made active measurements of neurotransmitters multiple times in different brain regions, and we have now reached the point where we're touching on crucial elements of what makes us human beings,” Montague concluded.



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A dance of dopamine and serotonin influences social behavior

In a new study published in Nature Human Behavior on...

Close,Up,Of,Colorful,Atomic,Particle,Background,Science,3d,Illustration

Scientists have edged closer to deciphering the universe's enigmatic forces by pioneering a method to measure gravity in the microscopic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> world. This advancement challenges long-standing puzzles in physics, where the gravitational force, first identified by Isaac Newton, remains elusive within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-controlled-at-room-temperature-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> realm. 



Albert Einstein, in his theory of general relativity, professed the difficulty of demonstrating gravity's quantum version, a sentiment echoed by scientists for centuries. However, the team from the University of Southampton, in collaboration with European scientists, has made a significant breakthrough.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravity-in-the-quantum-domain">Gravity in the quantum domain</h2>



Utilizing a novel technique involving levitating magnets, the researchers have detected a faint gravitational pull on a minuscule particle, venturing into sizes that blur the lines with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lasers-make-quantum-materials-reveal-their-hidden-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum domain</a>. 



Published in the Science Advances journal, this experiment represents a potential pathway toward uncovering the theory of quantum gravity -- a goal that has evaded the scientific community for over a hundred years.



Tim Fuchs, the lead author and a physicist at the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>, expressed the significance of this achievement. 



"For a century, scientists have tried and failed to understand how gravity and quantum mechanics work together. Now, by successfully measuring gravitational signals at the smallest mass ever recorded, we are one step closer to finally realizing how it operates in tandem."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-quantum-measurement">Innovations in quantum measurement</h2>



This experiment marks a milestone in measuring gravity at unprecedented scales and lays the groundwork for future explorations into the quantum realm. The quest for quantum gravity holds the key to answering fundamental questions about our universe. 



From understanding the origins of the cosmos to unraveling the mysteries of black holes and unifying all known forces under a single theoretical framework, the implications are profound.



The experiment, a collaboration between Southampton, <a href="https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leiden University</a> in the Netherlands, and the <a href="https://ifn.cnr.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies</a> in Italy, was supported by the EU Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder grant (QuCoM). 



It employed an intricate array of superconducting devices, magnetic fields, sensitive detectors, and advanced vibration isolation techniques. Remarkably, the study measured a gravitational pull of just 30aN on a particle weighing 0.43mg, levitated at temperatures just a fraction above absolute zero.



Professor Hendrik Ulbricht, a physicist at the University of Southampton, highlighted the future potential of this research. 



"We are pushing the boundaries of science that could lead to new discoveries about gravity and the quantum world. Our technique, which utilizes extremely cold temperatures and devices to isolate particle vibration, will likely pave the way for measuring quantum gravity," Ulbricht concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-ahead-in-quantum-gravity">The journey ahead in quantum gravity</h2>



In summary, this exciting breakthrough marks a pivotal advancement in our quest to understand the universe at its most fundamental level. 



By developing a novel technique to measure gravitational forces on microscopic particles, this impressive team of brilliant scientists challenged the boundaries of our current knowledge and forged a new path for exploring the elusive realm of quantum gravity. 



As we stand on the brink of these discoveries, the potential to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, from the origins of the universe to the inner workings of black holes, becomes increasingly tangible. 



This research bring us one step closer to unifying the forces of nature under a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single theory</a> while exemplifying the relentless pursuit of knowledge that drives humanity forward.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk2949" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Gravity measured in the quantum realm for the first time ever

Scientists have edged closer to deciphering the universe's enigmatic forces...

An international team of scientists, operating under the name PDRs4All (<a href="https://pdrs4all.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Photodissociation Regions for All</a>), has found the destruction and re-formation of a large quantity of water at the heart of the Orion Nebula, a massive star-forming region.&nbsp;



The revelation expands the search for life beyond our solar system, hinting that water - and potentially the potential for life - may exist in far more diverse environments than we previously imagined.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-orion-nebula">The Orion Nebula</h2>



The Orion Nebula, nicknamed M42, is a famous celestial object in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/">Milky Way</a>. It's located within the Orion constellation, easily recognizable by its three bright stars in a row. Unlike a single star, Orion is a vast birthplace for new stars.&nbsp;



Orion is a giant cloud of gas and dust, where the ingredients for new stars come together. It's a mix of different gas types, dense molecular clouds, and areas where dust reflects light, creating a colorful and interesting structure. Scientists use Orion to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-black-hole-creates-a-trail-of-stars/">stars</a> and planets form.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planet-forming-disk-nbsp">Planet-forming disk&nbsp;</h2>



Within the Orion Nebula lies a disk called "d203-506." This protoplanetary disk represents a vital stage in the life cycle of both stars and planetary systems. Studying the disk involves a special telescope known as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).&nbsp;



JWST uses infrared light as it can pass through the thick <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/">dust clouds</a> that surround young stars and planets. This allows the scientists to see inside the dusty disk and study how water molecules move and behave.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cycle-of-destruction-and-creation-nbsp">A cycle of destruction and creation&nbsp;</h2>



Scientists observed a surprising and ongoing process within the d203-506 disk: water constantly breaks down and reforms. This cycle is driven by the powerful light from nearby young stars, which both destroys and rebuilds water molecules.



Initially, the intense light (UV radiation) breaks water molecules (H2O) apart, creating individual hydrogen atoms (H) and hydroxyl radicals (OH). This is a chemical reaction known as photodissociation, where the chemical bonds in a molecule are broken by the energy from light.



The resulting hydrogen atoms and hydroxyl radicals can escape from the planet's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/">gravity</a>, leading to the loss of water from the planet. This process, over time, contributes to the evaporation or loss of significant amounts of water.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ocean-of-water">An ocean of water</h2>



"It is so impressive that in just a few pixels of observations, and focusing on a few of the lines, we can actually figure out that you have an entire ocean of water being evaporated every month," said Peeters, co-lead investigator of PDRs4All and faculty member at Western's Institute for Earth and Space Exploration. 



"This discovery was based on a tiny fraction of our spectroscopic data. It is exciting that we have so much more data to mine and I can't wait to see what else we can find."



But this breakdown isn't the end of the story. The newly formed hydroxyl radicals can then combine with existing hydrogen atoms to form new water molecules. This remarkable cycle of destruction and creation in the Orion Nebula happens continuously, fueled by the constant stream of light from the stars.



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



Before, scientists believed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uv-radiation-played-a-role-in-earths-largest-mass-extinction/">UV radiation</a> from nearby big stars would destroy all water in young star systems, making it impossible for life to exist.&nbsp;However, the observations of d203-506 showed a surprising cycle: even with the strong light, water is constantly being destroyed and then recreated.



The discovery suggests that water and potentially life can exist in many more places than scientists thought before. The ability of water to rebuild itself after being destroyed means the ingredients for life could be found in a wider variety of environments.



This information is helpful for the search for planets that could support life outside of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-earth-like-planet-may-be-hiding-just-beyond-neptune/">solar system</a>. Now that scientists know water can exist in places with strong light, they can look for signs of life in more places. The insight could even lead to finding many more potential planets that could support life.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41550-024-02203-0">Nature Astronomy</a>.&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, PDRs4All ERS Team; Salomé Fuenmayor image



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Orion Nebula destroys an oceans’ worth of water every month

An international team of scientists, operating under the name PDRs4All...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/">Forests</a> play a pivotal role in the global carbon cycle, yet their capacity to sequester carbon might be significantly overestimated by some current models, warns Professor Runsheng Yin from <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a>. 



In his new book - <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.4324/9781003436652" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Forest Carbon: Policy, Economics and Finance</a> - Yin delves into the complexities of utilizing forests as nature-based solutions to combat climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heavy-investment-in-reforestation-nbsp">Heavy investment in reforestation&nbsp;</h2>



Yin advocates for a recalibration of how carbon credits from forest-related activities are calculated, suggesting that the present models do not align well with the goals of the Paris Agreement.



"Companies worldwide are investing heavily in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/success-story-reforestation-has-helped-keep-the-eastern-us-relatively-cool/">reforestation</a> strategies, and while vital this is not going to be enough to remove the amount of carbon created in making timber, and the results won’t be quick enough to counteract the carbon output created by cutting down the trees in the first place,” Yin cautions, highlighting a gap in the current understanding and approach towards forest carbon sequestration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-rigorous-assessments-are-needed">More rigorous assessments are needed</h2>



Yin calls for "more rigorous accounting and assessments for local forest carbon storage and sequestration schemes," emphasizing the importance of considering the lifecycle of timber products and the duration of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/">carbon</a> storage.&nbsp;



He suggests the establishment of intermediary agencies to better coordinate the contributions of local smallholders, aiming for a more impactful management of forest carbon at both national and international levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-co2-emissions-nbsp">Rising CO2 emissions&nbsp;</h2>



The urgency of addressing rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-earth-was-heated-by-extreme-levels-of-atmospheric-co2/">atmospheric CO2</a> levels is underscored by the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



"Nations, corporations and individuals are turning to nature-based solutions to try to offset their greenhouse emissions. As the practice becomes increasingly monetized, it is crucial that the accounting is done accurately," Yin said, pointing out the critical need for precision in environmental accounting amid the worsening climate crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-forest-carbon-dynamics-nbsp">Complex forest carbon dynamics&nbsp;</h2>



Yin's research, which analyzed a pine plantation in the southern United States, revealed that the potential for carbon offset credits was exaggerated by a factor of at least 2.76. This discrepancy highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of forest carbon dynamics, especially considering the varied lifespans of wood products and their implications for long-term carbon storage.



"Properly accounted for, forest carbon offsetting is important and deserves to be seriously promoted and financially rewarded. But my research shows that its potential may not be as great as some analysts have claimed," Yin added, critiquing the overly optimistic projections of some studies. He emphasizes the necessity of integrating local carbon offset schemes within broader, government-led strategies that align with international climate commitments.



This call for a reevaluation of forest carbon sequestration's potential and methodology underscores the complexity of relying on forests as a solution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survey-mother-nature-is-more-likely-to-solve-climate-change-than-geoengineering/">climate change</a>, urging a balanced, well-informed approach to harnessing their benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-carbon-offsetting-schemes">Forest carbon offsetting schemes</h2>



Forest carbon offsetting is a mechanism that aims to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, thereby combating climate change. It involves the protection, restoration, or sustainable management of forests to increase their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the air.&nbsp;



Trees and other vegetation naturally capture carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, storing it in their biomass and in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-soil-boosts-crop-growth-by-over-50/">soil</a>. By increasing forested areas or enhancing the health of existing forests, carbon offset projects can sequester additional carbon dioxide, offsetting emissions made elsewhere.



Entities, such as businesses or individuals, can invest in forest carbon offset projects to compensate for their own carbon emissions. This is often part of a broader strategy to achieve carbon neutrality or reduce one's carbon footprint.&nbsp;



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Reforestation cannot offset carbon emissions from harvesting wood

Forests play a pivotal role in the global carbon cycle,...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



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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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" 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> 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

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

[sendtonews key="f8fukm28Vz-2491833-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" 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> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&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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How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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