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The magnetic North Pole, a vital navigational anchor for our planet, is far from stationary. Most of us remain blissfully unaware that it shifts constantly under the influence of dynamic forces beneath the Earth’s crust. 



However, recent movements have been more extreme than usual, making people take notice. Once steady, this silent sentinel has recently been speeding erratically toward Russia at an unprecedented pace.



Such rapid shifts could have dramatic consequences, disrupting modern navigation systems and, by extension, the way we navigate our daily lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-the-magnetic-north-pole">What exactly is the magnetic North Pole?</h2>



First, let's make it clear what exactly we're talking about. The magnetic North Pole is the point on Earth where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s magnetic field</a> points directly downward. This is the direction that your compass needle aligns with when you’re navigating outdoors. 



Unlike the geographic North Pole, which is fixed in the Arctic, the magnetic north pole is constantly on the move, drifting several kilometers each year due to changes in Earth’s molten core. 



This movement can sometimes throw off navigation systems, requiring updates to maps and compasses to stay accurate.



What makes the magnetic North Pole even more interesting is how it affects both technology and nature. 



For example, airplanes and ships rely on accurate magnetic readings for safe travel, while some animals use Earth’s magnetic field to migrate across vast distances. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-northern-odyssey-from-canada-to-siberia">The northern odyssey: From Canada to Siberia</h2>



Ever since we started tracking it, the magnetic North Pole has been on the move. However, its recent behavior is quite out of the ordinary. 



Once comfortably located in northern Canada, the pole kicked into high gear in the late 20th century, making its way across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-warming-four-times-faster-than-global-average/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic Ocean</a> by the 1990s.



From there, the pace has increased progressively , peaking at an astonishing 55 kilometers per year during the 2010s.



Presently, it's hurtling at a slightly reduced but still impressive speed of 25 kilometers per year towards Siberia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-steering-the-magnetic-north-pole">What's steering the magnetic North Pole?</h2>



Intellectually stimulating debates have arisen among scientists trying to decipher the underlying cause of this unusual phenomenon.



Dr. William Brown, a renowned geomagnetic field analyst, identifies three possible culprits behind the magnetic North Pole's unusual behavior. 



First, changes in the flow of molten iron beneath the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-crust-is-dripping-under-turkey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s crust</a> could be altering the magnetic field’s strength and direction, as the planet's outer core dynamics play a crucial role in generating the field in the first place.



Second, high-energy solar particles interacting with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-solar-shockwave-has-cracked-earths-magnetosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetosphere</a>, such as during solar storms and winds, might be causing fluctuations in the magnetic field. 



Finally, the phenomenon may be linked to the Earth's history of magnetic pole reversals, which have occurred nearly 200 times over the past 100 million years. The most recent of these reversals occurred approximately 800,000 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-without-a-north-star">Navigating without a North Star</h2>



The potential chaos that the moving magnetic pole can cause is not abstract or confined to scholarly concern. 



Our technology is deeply intertwined with magnetic orientations, and any abrupt changes can cause significant turmoil. 



Devices like smartphones, cars, and military equipment rely on the World Magnetic Model (WMM), which is designed by the British Geological Survey and NOAA. 



This model tracks the pole’s movements and ensures accurate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">navigation</a>. If the pole's movement outpaces updates to the WMM, our devices could miscalculate locations and throw our wayfinding abilities into disarray.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-polar-paradox">Preparing for the polar paradox</h2>



Mitigating the potential risks of such a change involves a three-pronged approach: frequent updates to the WMM, expanding research to continue monitoring the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s core</a> dynamics, and raising public awareness. 



Through these efforts, industries that rely heavily on magnetic field-based navigation are being prepped for any potential upcoming disruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gearing-up-for-a-world-upside-down">Gearing up for a world upside down?</h2>



While the pole's movement is no longer as rapid, it remains a crucial area of research.



Scientists from <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA</a> and other organizations are keeping a close eye on its shifting trajectory, ensuring our technological world is prepared for any seismic shifts in Earth's magnetic nature. 



In the face of a potential world where the poles flip, these insights and precautionary measures could prove indispensable.



So, the magnetic North Pole's flight towards Russia isn't just an intriguing natural occurrence. Its implications for our global navigation systems and technologies could be profound and far-reaching. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnetic-north-pole-and-earth-s-future">Magnetic North Pole and Earth’s future</h2>



Rapid movement of the magnetic North Pole&nbsp;is&nbsp;not&nbsp;just&nbsp;an&nbsp;issue&nbsp;for&nbsp;technology&nbsp;and navigation but&nbsp;also&nbsp;offers&nbsp;insight&nbsp;into the inner workings&nbsp;of the Earth. The&nbsp;erratic&nbsp;behavior of the&nbsp;pole&nbsp;reflects&nbsp;what is happening in&nbsp;the dynamic processes&nbsp;deep within our&nbsp;outer core, where molten iron generates&nbsp;a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doughnut-shaped-region-discovered-in-earths-liquid-core-impacts-our-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. By studying this phenomenon, scientists can gain a better understanding of Earth's geodynamo,&nbsp;which is&nbsp;the engine behind the magnetic field that shields us from harmful solar radiation. The&nbsp;shifting&nbsp;pole&nbsp;also&nbsp;raises questions over the possibility of a full magnetic reversal - a natural process&nbsp;in&nbsp;which&nbsp;the North and South magnetic poles swap places. While such reversals have happened thousands of times in&nbsp;the&nbsp;Earth's history, their effects&nbsp;cannot&nbsp;be predicted.



A reversal could temporarily weaken Earth's magnetic field,&nbsp;meaning that&nbsp;the planet would be exposed to&nbsp;more intense and damaging cosmic radiation,&nbsp;which would affect living organisms, ecosystems and infrastructure. Monitoring&nbsp;changes&nbsp;in&nbsp;this&nbsp;manner&nbsp;helps researchers&nbsp;keep&nbsp;an eye on&nbsp;the Earth's interior and also&nbsp;prepares&nbsp;humanity for potential future challenges.



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Magnetic North Pole is moving and changing faster than ever, surprising scientists

The magnetic North Pole, a vital navigational anchor for our...

The Chinese Mars rover Zhurong is adding an exciting twist to the story and history of water on Mars. 



After landing in southern Utopia Planitia on Mars in May 2021, the now-defunct Zhurong rover went to work exploring the Martian surface, and its latest findings might just change the way we think about the Red Planet.



Bo Wu and a team of researchers from <a href="https://www.polyu.edu.hk/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong Polytechnic University</a> believe they've found compelling evidence of an ocean shoreline for a massive body of water that once covered Mars' northern lowlands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-zhurong-mars-rover">What is the Zhurong Mars rover?</h2>



The Zhurong rover is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-plans-to-inhabit-a-space-station-on-the-moon-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China's first foray</a> into Martian exploration, landing successfully on Mars in May 2021 as part of the <a href="https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=2020-049A" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tianwen-1</a> mission. 



Weighing around 240 kilograms (530 lbs) -- about the size of a small car -- Zhurong is packed with scientific instruments, including navigation and topography cameras, a multispectral camera for analyzing surface materials, and a ground-penetrating radar that can probe up to 100 meters beneath the surface. 



These tools allow Zhurong to capture detailed images, study the composition of rocks and soil, and investigate the planet's subsurface structures.



What sets Zhurong apart is its ability to study Mars both above and below ground. The ground-penetrating radar is particularly exciting because it helps scientists search for signs of water ice and understand the geological layers hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-life-exist-below-the-icy-surface-of-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beneath the surface.</a> 



The rover also carries instruments to examine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-internal-structure-of-mars-core-is-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars' magnetic field</a> and atmospheric conditions, contributing valuable data to our understanding of the planet's climate and potential for habitability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zhurong-sees-water-related-features-on-mars">Zhurong sees water-related features on Mars</h2>



For years, scientists have pondered the possibility of a vast ocean on Mars, especially during the Hesperian period about 3.7 billion years ago. Concrete proof, however, has been hard to come by. 



Using a mix of Zhurong's onboard cameras and ground-penetrating radar, plus remote sensing data from orbiting satellites, the team identified several intriguing water-related features around the rover's landing area.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Zhurong-mars-rover_china_landing-site_ocean-shore_Sci-Reports_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Zhurong-mars-rover_china_landing-site_ocean-shore_Sci-Reports_1s.webp" alt="The Zhurong landing site (red cross) shown on the geologic map by Tanaka et al. Regions of different colors indicate different geologic units. The red box shows the study area, covering an area of ~ 1800 km × 800 km. The thick black line is the Deuteronilus contact indicating a possible shoreline across the region. The background map is a shaded relief of the MOLA topography." class="wp-image-1951081"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Zhurong landing site (red cross) shown on the geologic map by Tanaka et al. Regions of different colors indicate different geologic units. The red box shows the study area, covering an area of ~ 1800 km × 800 km. The thick black line is the Deuteronilus contact indicating a possible shoreline across the region. The background map is a shaded relief of the MOLA topography.</figcaption></figure>



Since touching down, Zhurong has traveled about 1.2 miles, studying the geology of its surroundings in search of signs of water or ice. 



The features spotted include crater-like pitted cones, troughs, sediment channels, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-frost-detected-on-mars-enormous-volcanoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mud volcano formations</a>. If that sounds like the remnants of a beachfront, you're onto something. 



According to Bo Wu and his colleagues, these formations are consistent with what you'd expect to find in a nearshore zone, suggesting this area was once a coastline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-the-martian-ocean">Dating the Martian ocean</h2>



Based on the composition of surface deposits, the team estimates that the ocean likely existed around 3.68 billion years ago. 



"The water was heavily silted, forming the layering structure of the deposits," study co-author Sergey Krasilnikov of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University told Reuters. 



This silt-laden water would have created distinct sedimentary layers, much like those found in ancient seabeds on Earth.



Interestingly, the researchers propose that after forming, the ocean froze over for about 10,000 to 100,000 years -- a mere <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-was-mars-habitable-much-more-recently-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blink in geological terms</a>. 



This freezing period etched out the coastline features observed today before the ocean eventually dried up roughly 260 million years later. Imagine a vast frozen ocean, sitting quietly on Mars, waiting for its turn to disappear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-everyone-agrees">Not everyone agrees</h2>



However, not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon. 



Benjamin Cardenas of <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a> points out that erosion over billions of years would likely have erased such delicate features. It's a fair concern -- Mars isn't exactly a place where things stay preserved forever. 



Wu acknowledges this skepticism but suggests that asteroid impacts might have resurfaced portions of the shoreline, making them detectable today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-martian-life">Implications for Martian life</h2>



So, what does all this mean in the grand scheme of things? Well, the presence of an ancient ocean has profound implications for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meteorite-that-struck-mars-reveals-when-the-planet-had-liquid-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our understanding of Mars</a>. 



Water is a key ingredient for life as we know it. If Mars had oceans, could it have also hosted life? It's a tantalizing thought that keeps scientists up at night.



NASA's Insight Lander 



Adding another layer to the mystery, <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/insight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Insight lander</a> found that a significant amount of water had seeped into Mars's crust. 



"At least we have identified a place that should, in principle, be able to sustain life," Michael Manga of the <a href="https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California</a>, one of the study authors, said in a previous statement. 



This underground water could have provided a stable environment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insights-alien-life-mars-water-sulfur-discovered-gained-studying-extreme-life-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life to develop</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-zhurong-and-mars-water">What's next for Zhurong and Mars water?</h2>



But here's the kicker: to get definitive answers, we need to bring Martian samples back to Earth for detailed analysis. 



China's Tianwen 3 Mars sample return mission aims to do just that by 2031, potentially beating NASA's own sample return mission to the punch. 



If all goes according to plan, we'll have pieces of Mars right here on Earth in less than a decade.



As we await these missions, Zhurong continues to send valuable data, inching us closer to understanding the Red Planet's watery past. 



Could Mars have been teeming with life billions of years ago? It's the million-dollar question. Only time -- and more research -- will tell.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-75507-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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China’s Mars Zhurong rover finds an ocean shoreline on the Red Planet

The Chinese Mars rover Zhurong is adding an exciting twist...

Uranus has long captivated scientists with its mysteries, particularly those that remain hidden within our solar system. 



Decades-old data from Voyager 2, a NASA spacecraft, has now breathed new life into our understanding of this distant, enigmatic planet, settling age-old questions that have puzzled researchers for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basics-of-planet-uranus">Basics of planet Uranus</h2>



Uranus is the seventh planet from the Sun, and it has this wild tilt -- it's basically spinning on its side with an axis tilt of about 98 degrees. 



This unique tilt leads to some extreme seasons that last over 20 Earth years each. The planet's blue-green hue comes from methane in its atmosphere, which absorbs red light and reflects blue, giving it that cool color.



Uranus has a set of rings and 27 known moons, most of which are named after characters from Shakespeare's plays. While its rings aren't as flashy as Saturn's, they're still pretty interesting.



 And talk about cold -- Uranus has the coldest planetary atmosphere in the solar system, dipping down to -224 degrees Celsius (-371 Fahrenheit). 



Finally, it takes about 84 Earth years to complete one orbit around the Sun, so a single year on Uranus is basically a lifetime for the average human.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-2-meets-uranus">Voyager 2 meets Uranus</h2>



In 1986, Voyager 2 embarked on a momentous journey that brought it into close proximity with Uranus, providing the first -- and so far, only -- detailed examination of this unique, sideways-rotating planet.



This flyby not only unveiled new moons and rings but also introduced perplexing enigmas that challenged the scientific community. 



Solving these mysteries and understanding their broader implications is akin to piecing together a cosmic puzzle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexplained-oddities-of-uranus">Unexplained oddities of Uranus</h2>



The presence of energized particles around Uranus was a conundrum. Here was a planet, rotating on its side and challenging the established understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic fields</a> trap particle radiation. 



Uranus, known for its unusual properties, was once again surprising the experts.



Scientists re-analyzed data from the notable flyby a few decades ago and, in an exciting twist, identified that an unexpected, cosmic occurrence had thrown this distant planet a curveball.



The experts discovered that, just before the spacecraft’s flyby, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a> had peculiarly squashed the planet’s magnetic field, leading to a dramatic compression of Uranus' magnetosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-timing">The importance of timing</h2>



“The spacecraft saw Uranus in conditions that only occur about 4% of the time,” stated Jamie Jasinski, a scientist based at <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> in Southern California and the lead author of a new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02389-3">Nature Astronomy</a>.



Imagine the odds. Had Voyager 2 arrived just a few days earlier, it would have recorded a completely different magnetosphere around Uranus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysteries-of-the-magnetosphere">Mysteries of the magnetosphere</h2>



Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-solar-shockwave-has-cracked-earths-magnetosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetosphere</a> plays a crucial role in maintaining life on our planet by protecting us from the ionized gas jets that the Sun releases.



Comprehending how magnetospheres operate carries immense significance not just for us, but for understanding the distant, less-explored planets in our solar system.



In their quest to understand Uranus' magnetosphere, scientists were confused by what they witnessed in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-lost-contact-with-voyager-2-spacecraft-12-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voyager 2</a> data. 



Despite a marked absence of plasma, the planet's magnetosphere boasted electron radiation belts with an intensity second only to the notorious radiation belts of Jupiter. 



This posed an enigma, as the Uranian moons, which should have been a significant source of water ions, were believed to be inactive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-solar-wind-event">Unexpected solar wind event</h2>



The latest data analysis suggests that the solar wind, a flow of charged particles released from the Sun's upper atmosphere, could be the key to solving this puzzle.



It is possible that, as the solar wind compressed the planet's magnetosphere, it also drove the plasma out of the system.



The intensity of the solar wind event could have increased the magnetosphere's dynamics, thereby providing a source for the radiation belts.



This discovery has led researchers to speculate that the five major moons of Uranus might be geologically active, contradicting previous beliefs. 



They suggest that these moons could have been continually spewing ions into the surrounding magnetosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-renewed-focus-on-uranus-and-future-exploration">Renewed focus on Uranus and future exploration</h2>



The National Academies’ 2023 Planetary Science and Astrobiology Decadal Survey has highlighted the study of Uranus as a key objective for future NASA missions.



Linda Spilker from the JPL, who was involved in the Voyager 2 mission, elaborated on the findings.



“The flyby was packed with surprises, and we were searching for an explanation of its unusual behavior. The magnetosphere Voyager 2 measured was only a snapshot in time," said Spilker.



"This new work explains some of the apparent contradictions and will once again change our view of Uranus." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-voyager-2">The legacy of Voyager 2</h2>



Despite being billions of miles away, Voyager 2 continues to communicate with Earth using NASA's Deep Space Network, specifically via the antenna in Canberra, Australia. 



It is still operational, collecting data on the interstellar medium and is expected to continue transmitting data until at least 2025​​​​​​.



Decades after it was launched, Voyager 2 continues to serve as a cornerstone for scientific discovery, offering invaluable insights into the mysteries of our solar system.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02389-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Uranus mystery finally solved almost 40 years after flyby from Voyager 2 spacecraft

Uranus has long captivated scientists with its mysteries, particularly those...

Speech often betrays us at the most inconvenient moments: we grasp for a word, knowing exactly what we mean to say, but are unable to retrieve that elusive term.



This experience, known as "lethologica," is a common symptom of aging but, in some cases, may also signal the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease, long before more obvious signs appear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-brain-health-through-speech">Tracking brain health through speech</h2>



Recently, a fascinating analysis sprang from the research halls of the <a href="https://learn.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>. 



Contrary to popular belief, they found that the speed of speech is more diagnostic of neurological health than the inability to retrieve words. 



Studying a group of 125 adults - aged 18 to 85 - the researchers asked them to describe a scene in as much detail as they could.



The responses were recorded and then examined by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-boosts-creativity-but-reduces-variety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> software, which measured their speech speed, the length of their pauses, and the diversity in their vocabulary.



In addition, all participants completed a range of tests aiming to evaluate their focus, thinking speed, and task management abilities. 



Notably, the researchers found a correlation between a participant's everyday speech pace and age-related cognitive decline in these "executive" skills, indicating a broader decline than just difficulty in finding the right word.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-lens-for-analysis">A new lens for analysis</h2>



Especially noteworthy was the introduction of a unique "picture-word interference task." This method requires participants to first identify an object and then instruct their mouths to form the words.



Further exploring the rich tapestry of cognitive and linguistic changes that come with age, the study demonstrated a correlation between a person’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-can-predict-human-speech-before-we-say-a-word/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural speech</a> speed and their ability to name images quickly .



However, to paint a more accurate picture of our verbal adaptability, it would be beneficial to combine the results of picture-naming tests with "verbal fluency tasks" that require participants to produce as many words as possible within a short time from a given category or starting with a specific letter.



Such tasks are better indicators of everyday conversations as they involve active retrieval and production of words from one's vocabulary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speech-and-cognitive-decline">Speech and cognitive decline</h2>



Verbal fluency tasks have another crucial function: they serve as markers of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-for-the-aging-brain-mediterranean-diet-protects-cognitive-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive health</a>. 



Age-related changes in word retrieval ability are perfectly normal, but struggling disproportionately on these tests may be an early sign of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.



To take their research even further, the Toronto team might consider gauging participants' personal experiences of word-finding difficulties in addition to the objective measures like speech pauses. 



These personal narratives could give added perspective on the cognitive processes at play.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-to-the-future">Looking to the future</h2>



This study is a significant stride forward, and reveals that our cognitive health can be gauged not just by what we say, but also by how quickly we say it.



By harnessing our ever-advancing natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caregiver-speech-shapes-infant-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language</a> processing technologies to detect changes in speech rate, we can identify people at risk before more severe symptoms appear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-brain-health-through-speech">Monitoring brain health through speech </h2>



The study highlights the growing importance of speech as a marker for understanding how the brain changes with age. 



Unlike traditional cognitive tests that rely on deliberate responses, natural speech offers an organic reflection of underlying cognitive processes.



The researchers found that everyday <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/songbirds-and-humans-use-similar-speech-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speech patterns</a> - such as the speed of delivery, the length of pauses, and the diversity of vocabulary - provide valuable clues about a person's executive functioning and processing ability.



What makes speech analysis particularly compelling is its accessibility, as conversations are a part of daily life. Analysis of speech is thus a low-cost, non-invasive method for monitoring brain health.



This approach not only reduces the barriers to early detection but also opens the door for widespread use in community health settings. 



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



By leveraging speech, healthcare providers may identify early signs of cognitive decline in aging populations without the need for specialized equipment.



Furthermore, speech-based assessments have the potential to complement other diagnostic tools. When paired with imaging techniques or genetic testing, they can provide a more complete picture of an individual's cognitive trajectory.



This multi-faceted approach ensures a more personalized understanding of aging and neurological health, and may lay the groundwork for proactive care strategies in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13825585.2024.2315774" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taylor and Francis online</a>.



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How speech speed can signal brain health

Speech often betrays us at the most inconvenient moments: we...

A recent capture by the powerful European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer (ESO’s VLTI) has enabled researchers to view the scene of a lifetime -- a first-ever close-up image of a dying star outside of our galaxy.



This celestial spectacle details the dramatic death throes of a giant star, named WOH G64, that is situated in a galaxy beyond our Milky Way. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dying-star-s-last-breath">Dying star's last breath</h2>



Keiichi Ohnaka, an astrophysicist at <a href="https://www.unab.cl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad Andrés Bello</a> in Chile, shared the exciting news.



Ohnaka and his team found an egg-shaped shell of dust and gas surrounding WOH G64 -- a dying star about 160,000 light-years away from us.



“We are excited because this may be related to the drastic ejection of material from the dying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-dandelion-year-1181-leaves-behind-zombie-star-defying-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star</a> before a supernova explosion,” said Ohnaka.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tale-of-the-behemoth-star">Tale of the "behemoth star"</h2>



For decades, astronomers referred to WOH G64 as the "behemoth star."



It is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a small galaxy that orbits our Milky Way. With its humongous size, around 2,000 times that of our own sun, WOH G64 is a red supergiant star.



Viewing such stars that are hidden in far-off galaxies has been a challenge until now, but ESO’s VLTI’s sharpness has brought WOH G64 to our virtual doorstep.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-a-dying-star">Observing a dying star</h2>



Ohnaka and his team at Universidad Andrés Bello have long been intrigued by WOH G64. The researchers first used observations from ESO's VLTI in 2005 and 2007 in Chile's Atacama Desert.



Despite their persistent efforts, the actual image of the star remained elusive until the development of one of VLTI's second-generation instruments known as GRAVITY.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-changes-in-woh-g64">Significant changes in WOH G64 </h2>



GRAVITY allowed the team to examine WOH G64 with a fresh pair of eyes, leading them to a surprising discovery. Over the last decade, the star has dimmed considerably.



Study co-author Gerd Weigelt is an astronomy professor at the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy in Bonn, Germany.



"We have found that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earth-will-meet-its-demise-astronomers-witness-a-star-devour-a-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star</a> has been experiencing a significant change in the last 10 years, providing us with a rare opportunity to witness a star’s life in real-time,” said Weigelt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-layers-of-gas-and-dust">Shedding layers of gas and dust</h2>



Red supergiants like WOH G64 are known to discard their outer layers of gas and dust in a process that spans thousands of years. 



The team suspects that the dimming of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/binary-systems-with-living-and-dead-stars-reveal-stellar-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star</a> and the unexpected egg-like shape of the dust cocoon surrounding it could be due to this shedding.



"This star is one of the most extreme of its kind, and any drastic change may bring it closer to an explosive end," noted study co-author Jacco van Loon, director of Keele Observatory at Keele University, UK.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-closely">Looking closely</h2>



As the star continues to fade, capturing detailed images of it becomes increasingly challenging, even for the VLTI. 



However, with planned upgrades like GRAVITY+, we can expect to get even better insights into the life of this far-off stellar giant.



“Similar follow-up observations with ESO instruments will be important for understanding what is going on in the star,” said Ohnaka, who is the lead author of the study. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eso-s-very-large-telescope-interferometer">ESO’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer</h2>



The VLTI is an impressive piece of technology that combines light collected by ESO’s Very Large Telescope array to create detailed cosmic images.



The process is highly complex and needs instruments specifically dedicated to this task. In 2005 and 2007, Ohnaka’s team had access to the first generation of these instruments, MIDI. 



However, it was the second-generation instrument, GRAVITY, that made the image of WOH G64 possible. But this is just the beginning. With imminent upgrades like GRAVITY+, we're set to witness cosmic phenomena like never before.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-capturing-a-dying-star">Significance of capturing a dying star</h2>



The wondrous universe is always ready to surprise and inspire us. Today, it is the unique image of a dying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star</a> beyond our galaxy, courtesy of ESO’s VLTI and the relentless curiosity of scientists like Keiichi Ohnaka.



In the ever-evolving field of astronomy, this is just one of the countless wonders that await us. With each star we scrutinize, each galaxy we explore, we inch closer to understanding the cosmos and our place in it. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/11/aa51820-24/aa51820-24.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a>.



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Astronomers reveal the first detailed image of a dying star in another galaxy

A recent capture by the powerful European Southern Observatory’s Very...

Warming is rewriting the story of our world, and every region has its unique chapter in this global narrative.



Recent research reveals that in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which is already infamous for its scorching deserts and extreme summer temperatures, the pace of warming is accelerating faster than previously expected. This paints a stark picture for the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fast-forward-button-on-warming">The fast-forward button on warming</h2>



According to a recent study, the MENA region is being fast-tracked into a future of accelerated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ignoring-climate-change-will-lead-to-ultra-extreme-heatwaves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. 



The region's warming thresholds could be crossed two to three decades earlier than in other parts of the world.



By the time we welcome the 22nd century, parts of the Arabian Peninsula could be grappling with a whopping 9 degrees Celsius (16.2 degrees Fahrenheit) increase in temperature.



The MENA region, already notorious for its record-breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-summer-of-2023-was-the-hottest-in-2000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summer temperatures</a>, is teetering on the verge of exceeding 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming on average. 



This figure is compared to pre-industrial temperatures. Without necessary adaption measures, this additional warmth could render some areas uninhabitable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-across-the-world">Warming across the world</h2>



Abdul Malik is a climate scientist at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the study's lead author.



"When we talk about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paris-agreement-which-countries-are-honoring-their-pledges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris Agreement</a>, we say that we should try to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, and that we should not exceed two degrees Celsius," warned Malik. 



"But in parts of the Middle East and North Africa, warming has already surpassed 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius."



Taking into account the need for more precise data, the climate researchers at <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Abdullah University of Science and Technology</a> conducted analysis using highly-sophisticated models.



The CMIP5 and CMIP6 were utilized to analyse the region's warming details meticulously.



"Although previous studies have shown that the region is warming much faster than other areas, we have shown that the warming rate is not consistent across the region," Malik added. "And this warming rate could vary between 1.5 and 3.5 times faster than the global average."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desert-dilemma-the-heat-gets-turned-up">Desert dilemma: The heat gets turned up</h2>



The MENA region's dry, arid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/floods-are-becoming-more-deadly-in-the-desert/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deserts</a> have a unique challenge. Unlike their humid counterparts nearer the equator, these deserts can't easily cool down by soil moisture evaporation.



This factor accelerates the warming, making it nearly as fast as the polar regions.



By the turn of this century, the Arabian Peninsula could experience a heat increase ranging from 2.6 degrees Celsius (4.7 degrees Fahrenheit) under low emission scenarios to 7.6 degrees Celsius (13.7 degrees Fahrenheit) under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-expected-to-reach-a-new-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high emission</a> scenarios.



"But you can develop artificial environments in regions with high populations," said Georgiy Stenchikov, a retired climate scientist and one of the study’s coauthors, highlighting the importance of adaptation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-world-adapting-to-a-warming-climate">A world adapting to a warming climate</h2>



If the world meets low-emissions targets, the rate of warming in the Middle East and North Africa could be curtailed by up to 38%. 



Cities across the region can also explore urban greening and architecture-based solutions to cope with the extreme heat.



"Global warming is a global problem, so you cannot prevent it in just one place. Adaptation will be necessary, and these adaptation measures could be tested and developed in the Middle East and North Africa," said Stenchikov.



The scorching temperatures in the MENA region are a stark reminder that climate change is a reality we must confront now, not later. 



Taking measures to adapt and slow down this process could ensure a viable future for the region and ultimately, our world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-human-toll-of-extreme-heat">The human toll of extreme heat</h2>



Rising temperatures in the MENA region bring more than environmental challenges; they pose severe threats to public health and socioeconomic stability.



The long heatwaves can compound water shortages, leading to a heightened risk of heat-related illness, and can result in productivity losses in outdoor, labor-intensive industries like agriculture and construction, among others.



Vulnerable populations, including the the elderly, children, and low-income communities, are at the highest risk.



These conditions could also unleash a wave of climate migration, as some areas would become too hot for human habitation.



According to the researchers, addressing these impacts not only requires global reductions in emissions but also localized solutions like developing cooling infrastructure and heat-resilient building designs, as well as advancing public campaigns regarding heat safety.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024JD041625" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres</a>.



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Some of the hottest places in the world are warming the fastest

Warming is rewriting the story of our world, and every...

Click, scroll, sigh. We all do it, don't we? Lying in bed, letting our thoughts run wild as we mindlessly scroll across negative news and social media content on our cell phones. 



This habit, known as "doomscrolling," pulls us deeper into the internet - intent on finding answers, solutions, or distractions that weigh on our mental well-being.



More often than not, we find ourselves immersed in an abyss of negativity, bathing in bad news and distressing content. But have you ever stopped to question the impact of this habit on your mental health?



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



The term "doomscrolling" describes this exact pattern of digital consumption - continuously trawling through negative information, seemingly addicted to heart-wrenching news and gloomy content. Despite triggering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomscrolling-threatens-our-mental-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative emotions</a>, we seem incapable of escaping this pull.



But why? What's causing this? Has doomscrolling become unwittingly intertwined with our attempts to make sense of an increasingly chaotic world?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doomscrolling-and-mental-health">Doomscrolling and mental health</h2>



A team of researchers from University College London (<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL</a>) set out to investigate. The results of their exploratory study paint a rather <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disconcerting picture</a>.



It appeared that people with poor mental health not only gravitated toward negative content online, but this habit seemed to amplify their depressive symptoms.



The UCL team assessed the mental health of over 1,000 participants who were then asked to browse the internet for thirty minutes. A subsequent mental health evaluation and examination of their search history revealed a stark pattern. 



Those with the lowest mental health scores sought out the most substantial amount of websites with negative themes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-a-two-way-street">It's a two-way street</h2>



A subsequent experiment aimed to discern if doomscrolling was a product of our mental and emotional state or the internet's influence. 



In short, were the participants driven to melancholy content because they were already feeling low, or did their foreboding mood result from their online activity?



Tali Sharot is a professor of cognitive neuroscience at UCL, who contributed significantly to this debate.



"Lots of people are saying that there is a correlation between poor mental health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/panic-driven-doom-gloom-climate-change-messages-do-not-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internet use</a>," said Sharot. "We spend many hours online, and as humans, we only just started doing so in the last few years. Is it causing problems?"



And the irony isn't lost on us. We are willingly choosing to foray into these murky waters, fully aware that it's going to leave us feeling down. Isn't it time we reconsider our digital habits?



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



Our insatiable appetite for distressing news isn't merely a quirky habit; it has serious implications for public health. This subject is particularly relevant as digital consumption has skyrocketed more than ever.



Health experts and policymakers are advocating for comprehensive digital literacy, aiming to educate individuals about the link between their internet habits and emotional well-being.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-and-the-internet-who-benefits-and-who-suffers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ideal scenario</a>? People would learn how to identify their negative online behavior, helping them to put an end to the negative spiral of doomscrolling.



Furthermore, experts are calling for breaks from screen time. They are promoting environments that are conducive to mental well-being in an effort to offset the harmful effects of excessive digital consumption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mindful-digital-consumption">Mindful digital consumption </h2>



How can we navigate this digital labyrinth without getting consumed by the darkness it often breeds? Mindful digital consumption may be the answer.



We can counter the anxiety that often accompanies continual exposure to gloomy information by adopting a balanced media diet, moderating our screen time, and using mindfulness techniques like meditation.



In short, we must reframe our relationship with technology. It's about ensuring that technology serves us - not the other way round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-change-your-scrolling-habits">Change your scrolling habits</h2>



A recent UK study highlighted the potential adverse effects of smartphone obsession, especially among adolescents. 



Teens who reported troubled relationships with their smartphones were found to be three times more likely to be anxious, depressed, or suffer from insomnia.



Our digital habits hold a sizeable sway over our mental health. While the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/internet-access-should-be-a-basic-human-right/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internet</a> carries the potential to be a marvelous resource, harnessing its full power lies in our hands. 



If we consciously choose to satiate our minds with positive content, we stand a chance at protecting - if not boosting - our mental well-being.



So, the next time you find yourself doomscrolling, remember this: Your mental health is worth far more than any viral tweet, incendiary post, or alarming news article.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-02065-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>. 



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'Doomscrolling' is silently ruining our mental health

Click, scroll, sigh. We all do it, don't we? Lying...

While the Spanish explorers may have brought the first peach pits to North America, recent research reveals that the real credit for the fruit's widespread cultivation goes to the Indigenous communities of the continent.



The study, conducted by researchers at Penn State, sheds light on this often overlooked chapter of history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-networks-and-the-spread-of-peaches">Indigenous networks and the spread of peaches</h2>



Jacob Holland-Lulewicz, the first author of the study and an assistant professor of anthropology at <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>, elaborated on the intensive care required for peaches to be productive.



This care includes finding appropriate places for plantation with abundant sunlight and proper soil drainage, along with regular pruning. 



The widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-sophisticated-strategies-to-balance-defense-and-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultivation</a> of peaches is a result of the Indigenous networks and land management practices - a fact that is often missed in narratives regarding the quick spread of peaches post-Spanish introduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-samples-from-archeological-sites">Samples from archeological sites </h2>



The researchers meticulously examined historical documents that mentioned peaches such as the writings of French missionary explorer Jacques Marquette and English merchant Jonathan Dickinson. 



Radiocarbon dating, a method that measures the decay of radioactive carbon-14 atoms in organic material, was used to determine the approximate ages of peach pits and other organic samples from various archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-of-peaches-in-north-america">Spread of peaches in North America</h2>



The researchers found that by 1620, a hundred years after the Spanish arrival in Florida and Georgia's Oconee Valley, peaches likely spread across the Indigenous settlements throughout the interior southeast.



But these communities didn't just adopt the fruit. They bred new varieties - so many that they outnumbered those found in Europe during the same era.



The researchers identified what are possibly the oldest peaches in North America unearthed at a Muskogean farmstead in Oconee Valley dating back to between 1520 and 1550.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-influence-on-peaches">Indigenous influence on peaches</h2>



Study co-author Victor Thompson is a research professor of archaeology at the University of Georgia (<a href="https://www.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UGA</a>) and executive director of the Georgia Museum of Natural History.



"Understanding the path that the introduction of species, such as peach trees, took through colonization and the role that Indigenous people and their long-term relationship with the environment played in shaping these histories demonstrates the importance of these events, people and processes to what becomes a broader American history,” said Thompson.



“Further, the fact that all of this work took place on museum specimens underscores the importance of maintaining these collections for future study.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-indigenous-communities">Legacy of Indigenous communities </h2>



At this point in our story, peaches had so intertwined with Indigenous history and culture that when the ancestors of the modern-day Muscogee (Creek) Nation were forcefully relocated from Georgia and Alabama in the 1800s, they took peaches with them.



Today, peaches continue to be grown as heritage crops by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, with the act of growing and caring for them being a significant cultural practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-s-role-in-peach-cultivation">Climate's role in peach cultivation</h2>



Understanding the climatic factors that affect peach cultivation is pivotal for their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-how-plants-grow-wider-not-just-taller/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">successful growth</a>. Peaches thrive in regions with distinct seasonal variations, requiring cold winters to induce dormancy followed by warm springs to awaken the fruiting process. 



This adaptability explains their prevalence in temperate zones worldwide. However, climate change poses potential challenges, with rising temperatures and unpredictable frosts threatening the delicate balance necessary for peach production. 



The researchers emphasize the need for exploring cultivars resilient to climate fluctuations, ensuring the preservation of both traditional and newly developed peach varieties.



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



As the historical and anthropological perspectives have enriched our understanding of peach cultivation, future research may involve genetic studies and exploring innovative agricultural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electro-agriculture-grows-food-in-the-dark-with-94-less-land-required/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">practices</a>.



With advances in biotechnology, scientists are unraveling the genome of peaches to identify traits that confer resistance to diseases and environmental stressors. This genetic insight is crucial for breeding programs aimed at improving yield and quality. 



Moreover, sustainable practices, such as permaculture and regenerative agriculture, are being explored to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-and-flower-strips-improve-honey-bee-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a>. 



So, the next time you enjoy a sweet, juicy peach, remember the Indigenous communities that played a key role in its journey.



Their extensive care and management not only introduced this beloved summer fruit to a new continent but also paved the way for its spread and the diversity we enjoy today.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52597-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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How peaches spread across North America and the world

While the Spanish explorers may have brought the first peach...

The collision of cargo vessels with whales is one of the leading causes of death for these majestic marine creatures. Despite high-profile accidents and localized research efforts, a comprehensive global picture of the risks posed by shipping to whales has remained elusive - until now.&nbsp;



A study led by the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> (UW), with contributions from <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Barbara</a> (UCSB) researchers, reveals that global shipping routes overlap with 92% of the migratory ranges of blue, fin, humpback, and sperm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-whales-continue-their-battle-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-risk-assessment-nbsp">Global risk assessment&nbsp;</h2>



Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adp1950" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, the study offers the first global map of ship-strike risks for these four large whale species.&nbsp;



“Most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-new-approach-to-protecting-whales-from-ship-strikes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ship-strike</a> studies are done at a regional scale, which is critically important but doesn’t provide the full picture worldwide,” said co-author Rachel Rhodes, a project scientist at UCSB’s Benioff Ocean Science Laboratory.&nbsp;



“By taking this broader perspective, we can identify the highest-risk areas globally and strategically direct research and conservation efforts where they’re needed most.”



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="7sxoUzIVbl-4050404-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-and-ships-a-deadly-intersection">Whales and ships: A deadly intersection</h2>



Cargo vessels, often the size of skyscrapers and over ten times the length of an adult blue whale, dominate the oceans. Any whale crossing their path faces almost certain death.&nbsp;



As shipping lanes increasingly intersect with whale migration routes, the likelihood of collisions grows.&nbsp;



According to Professor Briana Abrahms, this translates to ships traveling thousands of times the distance to the moon and back within these species’ ranges each and every year.&nbsp;



“And this problem is only projected to increase as global trade grows in the coming decades,” said Abrahms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-success-in-local-conservation-efforts">Success in local conservation efforts</h2>



While the outlook may seem grim, successful initiatives like <a href="https://whalesafe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whale Safe</a> off the California coast demonstrate the potential for mitigating these risks.&nbsp;



Whale Safe is a collaborative effort between researchers, citizen scientists, and shipping companies to reduce collisions by slowing vessels in whale-rich waters.&nbsp;



Tracking whale presence and providing data on ship compliance with slow zones have helped lower collision rates since the program’s launch in 2019.



“Getting the vessels to slow down works,” said UCSB marine ecologist and co-author Douglas McCauley, whose lab developed Whale Safe.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-adequate-protection-for-whales">Lack of adequate protection for whales</h2>



The Santa Barbara Channel, a vital migration corridor for blue, fin, and humpback whales, overlaps with major shipping hubs in Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland.&nbsp;



Federal guidelines encourage ships to voluntarily reduce their speed from May to December to protect endangered whales.



Despite these localized successes, the study found that only 7% of the highest-risk areas globally have measures in place to protect whales from ship strikes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-whale-ship-collision-hotspots">Mapping whale-ship collision hotspots</h2>



To estimate collision risks, the researchers first needed to map whale habitats on an unprecedented global scale.&nbsp;



This involved compiling data from government surveys, public sightings, tagging studies, and even historic whaling vessel logbooks to track where blue, fin, humpback, and sperm whales live, feed, and migrate.&nbsp;



The team combined this information with the routes of 176,000 cargo vessels tracked between 2017 and 2022 using data from ships’ automatic identification systems and algorithms developed by <a href="https://globalfishingwatch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Fishing Watch</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-high-risk-regions-nbsp">Identifying high-risk regions&nbsp;</h2>



The study revealed several new high-risk regions, including areas off southern Africa; the coasts of Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Ecuador in South America; the Azores; and East Asia, particularly near China, Japan, and South Korea.&nbsp;



“These are vast areas of the ocean where whales may quietly be being killed,” Rhodes said. “This may be a silent contributor to why we aren’t seeing more optimistic recoveries for some at-risk whale populations.”



The research also reaffirmed known hotspots, such as the Pacific coast of North America (including California), Panama, the Arabian Sea, Sri Lanka, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean Sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-policy-changes">Urgent need for policy changes</h2>



The team discovered that mandatory measures to prevent whale-ship collisions are exceedingly rare, covering just 0.54% of blue whale hotspots, 0.27% of humpback hotspots, and none for fin or sperm whales.&nbsp;



Even marine protected areas often lack speed regulations for vessels, as they were initially established to address issues like overfishing and industrial pollution rather than shipping-related risks.



Encouragingly, 95% of the hotspots identified lie within nations’ exclusive economic zones (EEZs), meaning individual countries have the authority to implement protective measures.&nbsp;



“From the standpoint of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a>, the fact that most high-risk areas lie within exclusive economic zones is actually encouraging,” said lead author Anna Nisi, a UW postdoctoral researcher.&nbsp;



“It means individual countries have the ability to protect the riskiest areas.”&nbsp;



Expanding protective measures to cover an additional 2.6% of the ocean’s surface would safeguard all the identified collision hotspots, the researchers estimate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-whales-from-ship-strikes-nbsp">Protecting whales from ship strikes&nbsp;</h2>



The experts hope their study will inspire local and regional research to refine hotspot maps, inform advocacy efforts, and address the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-a-warming-climate-will-change-the-humpback-whales-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, which will alter whale and ship distributions as sea ice melts and ecosystems shift.



“Protecting whales from the impact of ship strikes is a huge global challenge,” said Jono Wilson, co-author and director of ocean science at <a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Nature Conservancy</a>ù’s California Chapter.&nbsp;



“We’ve seen the benefits of slowing ships down at local scales through programs like ‘Blue Whales Blue Skies’ in California. Scaling up such programs will require a concerted effort by conservation organizations, governments, and shipping companies.”



Whales play a critical role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>, supporting biodiversity and contributing to ocean health. By identifying ship-collision hotspots and prioritizing these areas for conservation, this study offers a path forward to ensure their survival in an increasingly industrialized ocean.



Video Credit: Global Fishing Watch&nbsp;



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Ship routes overlap with 92% of whale habitats 

The collision of cargo vessels with whales is one of...

The Guitar Nebula is a fascinating cosmic object that was named for its uncanny resemblance to the instrument in glowing hydrogen light.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic</a> guitar isn't idle, though. It is constantly on the move, just as a swaying guitarist, belting out tune after tune.



The driving force behind its movement is the pulsar PSR B2224+65, a rapidly rotating neutron star. Picture it as the guitarist in this cosmic band.



And the music it plays? A flame-like filament of particles and X-rays. Over the years, astronomers have captured this symphony using NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and Hubble Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-the-guitar-nebula">Secrets of the Guitar Nebula</h2>



How does space manage to create such a bizarre <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-signals-from-crab-nebula-form-a-zebra-pattern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scenario</a>? 



The secret lies in the pulsar's fast rotation and strong magnetic fields. These extremes lead to particle acceleration and high-energy radiation, creating matter and antimatter pairs of electron and positron. 



In effect, the famous equation by Albert Einstein, E = mc2, which usually converts mass into energy, is reversed. In this case, energy converts into mass to produce the particles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pulsar-s-journey-through-space">Pulsar’s journey through space</h2>



As the Guitar Nebula passes through space, it emanates a steady wind, like a gentle melody, causing particles to be ejected. 



These particles then create bubbles, and as the pulsar continues to traverse through a medium with variations in density, more bubbles are created behind it, forming our unique guitar shape.



This symphony isn’t a static tune. Images captured at different points indicate the changes this filament undergoes. It's a unique kind of cosmic rhythm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-guitar-nebula">Observing the Guitar Nebula </h2>



The Chandra X-Ray Observatory and the Hubble Space Telescope have been instrumental in recording this intriguing performance.



A recent film, combining data from both, has revealed the pulsar and the filament moving towards the upper left - akin to a cosmic blow torch shooting from the tip of the guitar.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="VzMYfwbr7c-4050286-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-guitar-nebula">Significance of the Guitar Nebula</h2>



The Guitar <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/dark-wolf-nebula-in-the-constellation-scorpius/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nebula</a> is more than just a captivating spectacle. The filament is helping astrologists understand how electrons and positrons traverse the interstellar medium. 



The nebula also serves as an example of how these particles get injected into the interstellar space.



None of the observations would be possible without the dedicated work of teams at the NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/marshall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marshall Space Flight Center</a> and the <a href="https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory</a>’s Chandra X-ray Center.



The experts manage and control the Chandra program's science operations and flight operations, respectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-high-energy-astrophysics">Understanding high-energy astrophysics</h2>



The discovery and study of objects like the Guitar Nebula extend far beyond the realm of astronomy into the fundamental principles of physics.



By studying these celestial symphonies, astrophysicists are able to gather insights on the behavior of pulsars, their magnetic fields, and the dynamics of neutron stars. 



Such phenomena inform theories on how energy and matter interact at extreme scales, offering observable cases for complex physical equations. 



This knowledge contributes significantly to our understanding of high-energy astrophysics and the ongoing quest to unify the vast and diverse events occurring in the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspirations-for-science-and-art">Inspirations for science and art</h2>



Beyond contributing to scientific knowledge, the mesmerizing appearances and tales of cosmic structures inspire both amateur and professional artists. 



The Guitar Nebula's poetic dance through space, reminiscent of brushstrokes on a vast canvas or melodic chords in music, encourages creative interpretations and artistic expressions. 



This merging of science and art promotes a deeper public appreciation for cosmic phenomena, sparking curiosity and wonder about our universe.



Such inspiration ensures that the mysteries of space continue to captivate future generations, crossing the boundaries between disciplines and opening new avenues for interpretation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/cosmic-cannibalism-and-stellar-winds-unveiling-the-secrets-of-messier-76/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exploration</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testament-to-the-wonders-of-space">Testament to the wonders of space</h2>



This cosmic concert, with the flamethrower guitar and its changing tune, is a testament to the wonders that space holds. 



What other cosmic secrets are out there, waiting to be unraveled? If a pulsar can play such a visually radiant tune, who knows what the other stars are up to?



So, the next time you gaze up at the night sky, remember the Guitar Nebula, belting out its symphony in the vast auditorium of space. 



Video &amp; Image Credit: Hubble/NASA/ESA/STScI and (Palomar) Hale Telescope/Palomar/CalTech



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The Guitar Nebula: A pulsar's dazzling performance in space

The Guitar Nebula is a fascinating cosmic object that was...

The Phlegraean Fields, now considered one massive supervolcano, are beginning to stir, making the scientific community uneasy. 



These volcanic fields, nestled just west of Naples, Italy, are among the top eight emitters of volcanic carbon dioxide worldwide. 



Since 2005, one spot in particular -- the Solfatara crater -- has been releasing increased volumes of gas, catching the attention of researchers and locals alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gas-emissions-at-solfatara-crater">Gas emissions at Solfatara crater</h2>



Gianmarco Buono, a volcanologist at the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (<a href="https://www.ingv.it/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INGV</a>), is leading a study to understand what's behind this surge in gas emissions. 



"Estimating the source of the carbon dioxide is important to properly reconstruct what is happening in the magmatic system and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/knipovich-ridge-new-hydrothermal-field-arctic-intense-geological-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal system</a>," says Buono. 



His team aims to provide a tool that can distinguish between carbon dioxide coming from magma and that released by other processes, a method that could be useful in volcanic regions around the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-a-supervolcano">What exactly is a supervolcano?</h2>



In the simplest of terms, a supervolcano is essentially a volcano on steroids. It's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-early-humans-survived-the-eruption-of-toba-supervolcano/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive volcanic system</a> capable of producing eruptions thousands of times more powerful than a regular volcano. 



These eruptions can eject more than 1,000 cubic kilometers of material into the atmosphere, which can have catastrophic effects on the global climate and environment.



You've probably heard of places like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-tourism-generates-over-1-megaton-carbon-annually/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone National Park</a> in the United States -- that's one of the most famous supervolcanoes. 



When a supervolcano erupts it can form a giant caldera, which is a huge crater that can span dozens of miles. 



The sheer scale of these eruptions makes them rare, but they're definitely something scientists keep an eye on due to their potential impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-supervolcano-holds-a-surprising-amount-of-magma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life across the planet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-numbers-speak-volumes">Numbers speak volumes</h2>



Today, the Solfatara crater emits between 4,000 and 5,000 tons of carbon dioxide each day. To put that into perspective, that's equivalent to the emissions from burning about 500,000 gallons of gasoline daily. 



In their recent paper published in Geology, Buono and his colleagues estimate that 20% to 40% of this carbon dioxide comes from the dissolution of calcite in the surrounding rocks. The remaining 60% to 80% is traced back to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-affects-magma-formation-deep-within-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underground magma</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-solfatara-crater-gas">Science behind the Solfatara crater gas</h2>



When magma moves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closer to the Earth's surface</a>, the pressure decreases, causing gases that were trapped inside to escape. These gases include water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. 



Scientists keep a close eye on volcanoes by monitoring earthquakes, measuring ground deformation, and analyzing gases emitted from fumaroles -- openings in the Earth's crust that release steam and gases.



An uptick in gas emissions can be a sign of potential volcanic activity. However, not every increase leads to an eruption. 



Sometimes, carbon dioxide is released when hot underground fluids interact with the rocks above, rather than from magma itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes-over-decades">Monitoring changes over decades</h2>



Since 1983, the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology has been keeping tabs on the gas emissions from the Solfatara crater. 



By studying the ratios of nitrogen, helium, and carbon dioxide, researchers had initially concluded that the gases were primarily from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-affects-magma-formation-deep-within-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep magma sources</a>. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Phlegraean-fields_supervolcano_caldera_satellite-view_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Phlegraean-fields_supervolcano_caldera_satellite-view_1s.webp" alt="Satellite view of Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater showing a large caldera supervolcano west of Naples, Italy. It is part of the Campanian volcanic arc, which includes Mount Vesuvius." class="wp-image-1951186"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Satellite view of Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater showing a large caldera supervolcano west of Naples, Italy. It is part of the Campanian volcanic arc, which includes Mount Vesuvius.</figcaption></figure>



"We focused mainly on geochemical variation, especially for carbon dioxide, helium, and nitrogen, because they are non-reactive species. They contain information about what is happening in the magma," Buono explains.



But things started to change in 2005. The data began to deviate from the typical chemical signatures of magma-derived gases. This shift continued over time, accompanied by rising temperatures in the shallow hydrothermal system. 



By 2012, the alert level for the region was raised from green to yellow, signaling heightened activity but not an immediate threat of eruption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-the-earth-s-movements">Clues from the Earth's movements</h2>



The area didn't just experience changes underground. Small earthquakes and noticeable ground deformation were also observed. 



These signs pointed toward the circulation of hot fluids <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beneath the surface</a>. When these hot, acidic fluids interact with calcite in the rocks, they can release additional carbon dioxide.



Previous studies involving drill cores of the local rocks revealed that the calcite present has a composition similar to the gases being emitted. 



Based on this information, Buono's team estimated that 20% to 40% of the carbon dioxide at the Solfatara crater comes from the breakdown of calcite in the host rocks.



The Phlegraean Fields have a long volcanic history, with activity dating back approximately 40,000 years. The most recent eruption occurred in 1538. 



Since the 1950s, the region has experienced several phases of unrest, reminding us that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-super-eruptions-build-up-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's geology is always in motion</a>.



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



Understanding the source of carbon dioxide emissions in volcanic regions is crucial for public safety and environmental monitoring. 



By distinguishing between gases released from magma and those from other processes, scientists can better predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> and assess potential risks.



Buono's research not only sheds light on the complex interactions beneath the Phlegraean Fields but also provides tools that could be applied to other volcanic areas. 



As he notes, "Our aim is to provide a tool to better discriminate the contribution of magmatic and non-magmatic carbon dioxide that can also be applied to other systems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solfatara-crater-and-the-future">Solfatara crater and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, figuring out what's really going on beneath the Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater is a big deal -- not just for the science buffs but for everyone living on Earth.



Buono's team has shown that the spike in carbon dioxide emissions isn't just magma pushing its way up. A good chunk of that gas is actually coming from hot fluids interacting with calcite-rich rocks underground. 



This kind of info is gold because it helps us keep a closer eye on volcanic activity and, more importantly, keeps people safe.



Looking ahead, keeping tabs on these emissions and understanding their sources is key. By knowing whether the carbon dioxide is from magma or from rock interactions, scientists can better predict what's coming next. 



The Phlegraean Fields are a vivid reminder that our planet is always on the move. Scientists like Buono will keep unraveling the mysteries beneath our feet, helping us understand the dynamic planet we call home.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/geology/article/51/4/397/620796/Discriminating-carbon-dioxide-sources-during" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>.



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Supervolcano shows signs of waking up, which would plunge the world into chaos

The Phlegraean Fields, now considered one massive supervolcano, are beginning...

Many of the world's glaciers formed during the last glacial maximum. These glaciers, remnants of the Ice Age, have persisted for thousands of years in high-altitude or polar regions.



However, there are big changes ahead. A recent study reveals that over half of the world's glaciers could disappear by the end of this century.



The research, conducted by scientists at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> in Switzerland and <a href="https://www.vub.be/nl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vrije Universiteit Brussel</a> in Belgium, suggests a chilling forecast for our planet's glaciers.



The scientists estimated potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glacier-melt-in-alaska-is-accelerating-at-an-alarming-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier loss</a> under various carbon emissions scenarios. They took into account all of our planet's glaciers - a whopping 200,000 in total.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciers-under-severe-threat">Glaciers under severe threat</h2>



The numbers from the study are daunting. Under a high emissions scenario, up to 54 percent of all glaciers could vanish. In the Alps, this number reaches an alarming 75 percent.



"Glaciers are crucial in many parts of the world, and as such, glacier changes directly impact our society and the natural environment," said study lead author and glaciologist Professor Harry Zekollari.



"Locally, glaciers can lead to natural hazards, they have an important touristic value, and they determine local water supply."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-melting-glaciers-to-rising-sea-levels">From melting glaciers to rising sea levels</h2>



The melting of glaciers does not stop at the loss of an icy spectacle; the repercussions are far-reaching. One of the biggest concerns is the contribution of melting glaciers to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-sea-levels-threaten-groundwater-global-cities-underground-infrastructure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising sea levels</a>, which heighten the risk of floods in coastal towns and cities.



Moreover, glacier loss diminishes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a> resources that millions of people depend on for drinking water.



"Water supply from glaciers (and how this supply changes) will impact biodiversity and water availability for industry, agriculture, and households," said Professor Zekollari.



The greenhouse effect only serves to worsen the crisis. As the Earth's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/could-tree-planting-warm-earth-science-behind-albedo-effect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">albedo</a> - the ability to reflect sunlight - decreases, more energy from the sun is absorbed rather than reflected. This raises the risk of global warming, further aggravating climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-glacier-mass-loss">Predicting glacier mass loss</h2>



To estimate future glacier loss, the research team studied historical glacier masses, carbon emissions, and temperature data. 



Armed with this information and the aid of computer modeling, the experts were able to make predictions about future glacier mass loss.



"By modeling glacier evolution throughout the 21st century under various climate scenarios, we found stark differences in outcomes depending on future emission levels," noted Professor Zekollari.



Under low carbon emissions, glaciers could lose 25 to 29 percent of their mass by 2100. Under a high-emissions scenario, that figure could rise to between 46 and 54 percent.



The European Alps' glaciers are among the most vulnerable. These glaciers are predicted to lose more than 75 percent of their volume under high-emission scenarios.



However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar regions</a> like Arctic Canada, Iceland, and Svalbard might retain a larger part of their glacier mass by century-end, albeit still facing significant loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertainties-in-glacier-evolution">Uncertainties in glacier evolution</h2>



Despite these painful revelations, the team acknowledges uncertainties in the projected glacier evolution, while stressing that the research specifically examined glaciers, not ice sheets.



Ice sheets, the gargantuan masses of glacial ice found on Greenland and Antarctica, carry about 99 percent of Earth's freshwater.



While these ice sheets hold greater mass and react on longer timescales, their contribution to sea-level rise is about the same (or even slightly less) than from the 200,000 glaciers under study.



"For us it is indeed the crucial that all numbers by us and other researchers are combined to get the full sea-level rise picture," concluded Professor Zekollari.



The fragility of our world's glaciers highlights the pressing need for proactive climate action. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-glaciers-a-collective-responsibility">Preserving glaciers: A collective responsibility</h2>



The fate of the world's glaciers is not set in stone. By reducing carbon emissions and implementing sustainable environmental policies, it is possible to slow their decline. 



Efforts like transitioning to renewable energy, protecting vulnerable ecosystems, and raising global awareness about the importance of glaciers can help mitigate their loss. 



Every action we take today helps protect glaciers for future generations, ensuring the preservation of freshwater resources, biodiversity, and the delicate balance of our climate.



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Over half of the world’s glaciers are on pace to disappear by 2100

Many of the world's glaciers formed during the last glacial...

A galaxy racing through space at an astonishing speed of two million mph (3.2 million km/h) has created a dramatic collision, observed in unprecedented detail by one of Earth’s most advanced telescopes.&nbsp;



The event occurred in <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/stephans-quintet-in-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephan’s Quintet</a>, a well-known group of five interacting galaxies first discovered nearly 150 years ago. 



The collision unleashed a powerful shockwave described as being akin to a “sonic boom from a jet fighter,” showcasing one of the Universe's most striking phenomena.



The galaxy responsible, NGC 7318b, passed through Stephan’s Quintet, triggering the reactivation of a chaotic field of debris left behind by previous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galactic collisions</a>.&nbsp;



This rare event was captured by the William Herschel Telescope Enhanced Area Velocity Explorer (WEAVE), a state-of-the-art spectrograph located in La Palma, Spain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stephan-s-quintet-a-galactic-crossroad">Stephan’s Quintet: A galactic crossroad</h2>



“Since its discovery in 1877, Stephan’s Quintet has captivated astronomers because it represents a galactic crossroad where past collisions between galaxies have left behind a complex field of debris,” explained lead author Marina Arnaudova, an astronomer at the <a href="https://www.herts.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hertfordshire</a>.&nbsp;



“Dynamical activity in this galaxy group has now been reawakened by a galaxy smashing through it at an incredible speed of over two million mph, leading to an immensely powerful shock, much like a sonic boom from a jet fighter.”



This new insight into Stephan’s Quintet was achieved using WEAVE’s Large Integral Field Unit (LIFU), part of a €20-million (£16.7-million) next-generation science facility.&nbsp;



WEAVE’s capabilities allow astronomers to explore the composition and behavior of stars and gasses within galaxies, offering unprecedented detail about the dynamics of galactic interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dual-nature-of-the-shockwave">The dual nature of the shockwave</h2>



One of the study’s most significant findings was the dual nature of the shockwave produced by the collision.&nbsp;



“As the shock moves through pockets of cold gas, it travels at hypersonic speeds - several times the speed of sound in the intergalactic medium of Stephan’s Quintet - powerful enough to rip apart electrons from atoms, leaving behind a glowing trail of charged gas, as seen with WEAVE,” Arnaudova said.



However, the shock behaves differently when it interacts with surrounding hot gas.&nbsp;



“Instead of causing significant disruption, the weak shock compresses the hot gas, resulting in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-radio-waves-recorded-from-the-moon-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio waves</a> that are picked up by radio telescopes like the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR),” explained Soumyadeep Das, a PhD student at the University of Hertfordshire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-instruments-unlock-new-insights">Advanced instruments unlock new insights</h2>



The detailed observations combined data from WEAVE with those from other cutting-edge instruments, including LOFAR, the Very Large Array (VLA), and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). 



WEAVE, which is attached to the William Herschel Telescope, analyzes light from stars and gas through spectroscopy. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/galaxy-collision_Stephans-Quintet_2-million-mph_UHertfordshire_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/galaxy-collision_Stephans-Quintet_2-million-mph_UHertfordshire_1s.webp" alt="WEAVE data overlaid on a James Webb Space Telescope image of Stephan's Quintet, with green contours showing radio data from the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) radio telescope. The orange and blue colors follow the brightness of Hydrogen-alpha obtained with the WEAVE LIFU, which trace where the intergalactic gas is ionized. Credit: University of Hertfordshire" class="wp-image-1951174" style="width:300px;height:auto"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">WEAVE data overlaid on a James Webb Space Telescope image of Stephan's Quintet, with green contours showing radio data from the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) radio telescope. The orange and blue colors follow the brightness of Hydrogen-alpha obtained with the WEAVE LIFU, which trace where the intergalactic gas is ionized. Credit: University of Hertfordshire</figcaption></figure>



This process reveals a “bar code” of colors that uncovers the elements present in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>, providing crucial information about galactic composition and behavior.



This advanced spectrograph was developed through an international partnership involving France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and the UK. 



Its primary mission is to provide groundbreaking insights into the formation of the Milky Way and other galaxies, as well as the evolution of the Universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-glimpse-into-galactic-evolution">A glimpse into galactic evolution</h2>



Stephan’s Quintet offers a unique laboratory for understanding the violent interactions between galaxies.&nbsp;



Professor Gavin Dalton is the WEAVE principal investigator at RAL Space and the University of Oxford.



“The shock and the unfolding collision that we see in Stephan’s Quintet provide a remarkable perspective on what may be happening in the formation and evolution of the barely resolved faint galaxies that we see at the limits of our current capabilities,” said Dalton.&nbsp;



“It’s really neat work that Marina has put together with this large team, but this first WEAVE science paper also represents just a taste of what is to come over the next five years now that WEAVE is becoming fully operational,” added Daniel Smith of the University of Hertfordshire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-promising-future-for-galactic-research">A promising future for galactic research</h2>



The findings mark an exciting beginning for WEAVE’s role in astronomy.&nbsp;



“I’m excited to see that the data gathered at the WEAVE first light already provide a high-impact result, and I’m sure this is just an early example of the types of discoveries that will be made possible with WEAVE on the William Herschel Telescope in the coming years,” said Marc Balcells, director of the Isaac Newton Group of Telescopes.



By capturing the details of this dramatic galactic collision, WEAVE has demonstrated its potential to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos.&nbsp;



With its ability to analyze light from stars and gasses with unprecedented speed and accuracy, the spectrograph is set to uncover more insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy formation</a>, evolution, and the chaotic interactions shaping the Universe.



Image Credit: University of Hertfordshire



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Galaxies colliding at 2 million miles per hour observed in unprecedented detail

A galaxy racing through space at an astonishing speed of...

Scientists have been scratching their heads about the purpose of the ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) made by rodents since these sounds were first discovered in the 1950s.



A widely accepted theory suggests a role in social communication, and paints a picture of rodents using these sounds to attract mates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rodents-and-ultrasonic-vocalizations">Rodents and ultrasonic vocalizations</h2>



Dr. Eduardo Mercado III, a professor of psychology at the University of Buffalo <a href="https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Arts and Sciences</a>, proposes a fresh perspective on rodents' USVs. 



According to Dr. Mercado, when rodents make these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrasound-waves-can-enhance-mindfulness-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sounds</a>, the aim isn't romance, but something else entirely. 



"This phenomenon has never been observed before, or I believe even suspected, in any animal," said Dr. Mercado. 



"They're creating new pathways of information by manipulating their environment and controlling the molecular interactions of particles around them."



This radical idea could carry broad implications, possibly leading to innovative treatments for psychological disorders and advancements in technology.



One might even imagine these clever rodents as having Jedi skills, as Mercado humorously suggests. It is almost as if they practice a form of "magic," manipulating their environment to their advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-discovery-inspired-by-whale-songs">A discovery inspired by whale songs</h2>



Dr. Mercado's background in the study of humpback whale songs led to his revolutionary hypothesis.



While attending a meeting on ultrasonic vocalizations, he recognized certain inconsistencies in rodent behavior that didn't quite align with the prevalent thought on the purpose of USVs.



Rodents explore their environment using their whiskers, visual scans, and incessant sniffing. 



Interestingly, Dr. Mercado found that studies which monitored sniffing alongside vocalizations showed that rodents would immediately sniff the air after producing each USV.



Could it be that these two actions are interconnected?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-rats-might-use-ultrasonic-sounds">How rats might use ultrasonic sounds</h2>



Vibroacoustics, a field concerned with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zapping-the-brain-with-ultrasound-waves-may-cure-drug-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ultrasonic</a> vibrations, uses sound to manipulate particle clusters.



Drawing parallels, Dr. Mercado suggests that rodents might be using their ultrasonic vocalizations to create odor clusters in the air, thereby enhancing their ability to detect airborne chemicals, such as pheromones.



"That could be a coincidence, or it might suggest the two are functionally related," said Dr. Mercado. 



"I knew that techniques for using ultrasound to manipulate particles are used in the field of vibroacoustics and thought immediately that might also work for animals."



In rodents, this manipulation would make it easier for individuals to detect and identify others within their social sphere - distinguishing friends from strangers and competitors with better precision.



This implies that by vocalizing through ultrasonic sounds, rats are helping themselves to smell odors in their environment.



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



Rodent vocalizations have helped in the study of human disorders related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ermine-moths-effortlessly-produce-ultrasonic-warning-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a>, emotional processing, and social behavior.



The understanding of conditions such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and autism has advanced due to the results from studies of rodent vocalizations.



"Rodents are at the forefront of biological research," said study co-author Jessica Zhou, a student researcher at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>. "Rodents, especially rats and mice, are the unsung heroes of the scientific world."



Their contributions to biological research could widen if this intriguing hypothesis holds true.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-complex-cognitive-processes">Evolution of complex cognitive processes </h2>



An interesting evolutionary perspective illustrates how the sense of smell, used for exploration, has driven the evolution of more complex cognitive processes, including attention and memory. 



A deeper understanding of this system might provide insights into the evolution of these crucial cognitive functions.



While the potential uses of rodent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrasound-helps-save-sea-turtles-from-fishing-nets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USVs</a> in scientific research is significant, several challenges must be addressed to harness their benefits fully.



Rigorous experimental designs are necessary to test Dr. Mercado’s hypothesis empirically across various rodent species and environmental conditions.



Moreover, advancements in acoustic technology could enhance our ability to capture and analyze these ultrasonic frequencies with greater precision. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rats-sounds-and-new-innovations">Rats, sounds, and new innovations</h2>



The journey ahead requires an open mind and a commitment to innovation. 



The next few years could prove pivotal in confirming whether rodents truly manipulate their chemical environments or if another unknown factor is at play.



Understanding this process could inform the development of new technologies. 



Drawing a parallel to how understanding vision in nocturnal animals led to the development of night-vision goggles, the authors propose that recognizing the reasons for rodents' intriguing use of sound might pave the way for sonic-manipulation technologies involving nanoparticles.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763424003774?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neuroscience &amp; Biobehavioral Reviews.</a>



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Rats have a "magical" ability to move matter using soundwaves

Scientists have been scratching their heads about the purpose of...

History is filled with mysterious artifacts, and the Aztec death whistle is an intriguing example.



Imagine a musical instrument with the sound of a terrifying, blood-curdling scream. This unusual whistle had a place in the fascinating world of the Aztec civilization during the pre-Columbian era in Mesoamerica.



This rich cultural context presents a labyrinth of mythology that is steeped in fearsome deities and chilling rituals – many of which may have employed this eerie instrument to good effect.



The death whistle's skull-shaped design is believed to symbolize Mictlantecuhtli, the fearsome Lord of the Aztec Underworld. 



The instrument's chilling sound may have served as a sorrowful fanfare preceding human sacrifices, at a time when the victims were being prepared for their mythical descent into Mictlan, the gloomy realm of the afterlife.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-mechanics-of-the-aztec-death-whistle">Unique mechanics of the Aztec death whistle</h2>



Of course, such startling audial experiences pique the curiosity of scientists. 



So it's no surprise that a team of researchers ventured into the history-laden world of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aztecs-kept-accurate-time-using-the-sun-and-the-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aztec</a> musical instruments, keen to unravel the secrets of the death whistle's unique sonic properties. 



The research was conducted at the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a>, and was led by Sascha Frühholz, professor of cognitive and affective neuroscience.



The researchers embarked on their exploration using 3D digital reconstructions of original Aztec death whistles, sourced from the Ethnological Museum in Berlin.



What they discovered was a wholly peculiar internal construction that featured two opposing sound chambers able to create physical air turbulence as the source of the screeching sound.



“The whistles have a very unique construction, and we don’t know of any comparable musical instrument from other pre-Columbian cultures or from other historical and contemporary context,” noted Frühholz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-emotive-impact-of-the-death-whistle">The emotive impact of the death whistle</h2>



Undeniably, the chilling whistle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/third-state-of-existence-beyond-life-and-death-confirmed-by-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">death</a> is one of a kind. But what makes it so terrifying? 



To answer this, the Swiss research team gathered sound recordings of people blowing original Aztec death whistles, and compared them to those blowing handmade replicas.



When played back, listeners described the sounds as extremely chilling and frightening.



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LrUGbnrmsd-4049652-12187" type="single"]</div>



According to the research analysis, the Aztec death whistle seems to mimic other deterring and fearsome sounds, both acoustically and affectively.



Intriguingly, human listeners perceived the whistle's sound to be partly organic and natural, like a human voice or scream. 



“This is consistent with the tradition of many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient cultures</a> to capture natural sounds in musical instruments, and could explain the ritual dimension of the death whistle sound for mimicking mythological entities,” said Frühholz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-responses-to-the-death-whistle">Psychological responses to the death whistle</h2>



Digging deeper into the human reaction to the mysterious instrument, brain recordings were made while listeners were exposed to the whistle's sounds.



The results showed significant response in the regions belonging to the affective neural system, highlighting the eerie and sinister nature of the sound.



Moreover, the team observed brain activity in regions that associate sounds with symbolic meaning, suggesting that the death whistle combines both affective influence and complex mental processes of sound symbolism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-modern-minds-to-ancient-aztec-audiences">Linking modern minds to ancient Aztec audiences</h2>



The power of music to stir emotions has been recognized across cultures and eras. 



Similarly, the Aztec communities may have utilized the death whistle's symbolic and unnerving properties during their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-age-humans-from-magdalenian-culture-practiced-cannibalism-as-part-of-funeral-rituals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ritual</a> ceremonies. 



They may have capitalized on the fear and awe inspired by the whistle to sway the audience's emotional state.



“Unfortunately, we could not perform our psychological and neuroscientific experiments with humans from ancient Aztec cultures. But the basic mechanisms of affective response to scary sounds are common to humans from all historical contexts,” said Frühholz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-sounds-to-evoke-emotions">Using sounds to evoke emotions</h2>



The Aztec death whistle offers a fascinating glimpse into how ancient cultures harnessed sound to evoke emotions and communicate profound ideas. Its chilling resonance reminds us of the universal power of sound to influence human psychology.



Modern studies on the death whistle's acoustic properties highlight its ability to mimic organic sounds, such as screams, which are universally recognized as distress signals.



This unique feature has opened doors for contemporary researchers to explore parallels between ancient instruments and the science of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sounds-can-change-the-way-we-see-things/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sound perception</a>. 



For instance, understanding how the whistle triggers fear and awe in listeners provides insight into how humans react to auditory cues in both natural and artificial environments. 



These findings have applications in fields ranging from neuroscience to sound design, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this ancient artifact.



The Aztec death whistle’s haunting legacy not only sheds light on the creativity of the Aztec civilization but also challenges us to consider the cultural significance of sound in shaping human experience across history.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44271-024-00157-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Psychology</a>.



Image Credit: Sascha Frühholz



Video Credit: University of Zurich 



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Secrets of the Aztec death whistle's terrifying sound

History is filled with mysterious artifacts, and the Aztec death...

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