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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the European Space Agency features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission. "Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA. "The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source...

Dna,Spiral,,Life,Blueprint.,Double,Helix,Structure,,Genetic,Science,Symbol,

Evolution has always been seen as a complex, random, and unpredictable process, shaping life on Earth in ways we could hardly anticipate. 



But what if there's more order to it than chaos? That's exactly what a team of scientists is suggesting in a new study.



This research, led by Professor James McInerney and Dr. Alan Beavan from the School of Life Sciences at the <a href="https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nottingham</a>, hints that evolution might not be as random as we've long thought.



Their research could have big implications for tackling issues like antibiotic resistance, diseases, and even climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-genes-and-the-pangenome">Evolution, genes, and the pangenome</h2>



So, what's this all about? The team analyzed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-the-pangenome-the-clearest-snapshot-ever-taken-of-human-genomic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the pangenome</a> -- the complete set of genes within a species -- to see if evolution follows any predictable paths. 



They wanted to know: Is evolution just a series of accidents, or is there a pattern influenced by a genome's history?



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



In simple terms, the pangenome is the complete set of all genes found within a species. 



It includes every gene present in all the different strains or individuals, covering both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-dna-secrets-revealed-by-genomic-time-machine-and-transposable-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common genes</a> shared by everyone (the core genome) and the unique ones found only in some (the accessory genome). 



So even though individual members might have different genetic makeups, the pangenome represents the full genetic diversity that the species has.



Analyzing the pangenome allows researchers to identify which genes are essential for survival and which ones offer specific advantages, opening up possibilities for new medical and environmental applications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-computing-power-required">Big computing power required</h2>



The team used a machine learning approach called <a href="https://www.ibm.com/topics/random-forest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Random Forest</a> to sift through a massive dataset of 2,500 complete genomes from a single bacterial species. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-machine-learning-can-help-us-protect-chimpanzees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Machine learning</a> algorithms like this are great at finding patterns that might be too complex or subtle for humans to detect on their own. 



This wasn't a quick job -- it took several hundred thousand hours of computer processing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-and-gene-families">Evolution and "gene families"</h2>



First up, they created "gene families" from each gene in every genome. "In this way, we could compare like-with-like across the genomes," explained Dr. Maria Rosa Domingo-Sananes from <a href="https://www.ntu.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nottingham Trent University</a>.



Once they had these families sorted out, they focused on the genes and gene families inside the genomes.



"We found that some gene families never turned up in a genome when a particular other gene family was already there," said Dr. Domingo-Sananes. 



"And on other occasions, some genes were very much dependent on a different gene family being present."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-gene-ecosystem-driving-evolution">Hidden gene ecosystem driving evolution</h2>



In other words, they discovered an invisible ecosystem where genes either get along or clash with each other, making <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-may-be-the-biggest-roadblock-to-solving-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution unpredictable</a>.



"These interactions between genes make aspects of evolution somewhat predictable and furthermore, we now have a tool that allows us to make those predictions," added Dr. Domingo-Sananes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-paradigm-shift">A paradigm shift</h2>



Professor McInerney, the lead author of the study, is excited about the possibilities, to say the least. 



"The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/missing-law-of-nature-explains-the-evolution-of-everything-that-exists-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implications of this research</a> are nothing short of revolutionary," he said. 



"By demonstrating that evolution is not as random as we once thought, we've opened the door to an array of possibilities in synthetic biology, medicine, and environmental science."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-applications">Real-world applications</h2>



This research isn't just about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snails-defy-death-and-revive-through-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding evolution</a> for curiosity's sake. It has real-world implications that could affect our lives in significant ways.



But how could this affect us in practical terms? 



"From this work, we can begin to explore which genes 'support' an antibiotic resistance gene, for example," Dr. Beaven explained.



"Therefore, if we are trying to eliminate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/umbrella-toxin-discovery-may-help-human-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic resistance</a>, we can target not just the focal gene, but we can also target its supporting genes."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-antibiotic-resistance">Fighting antibiotic resistance</h2>



This approach could be a game-changer in the fight against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antibiotic-resistance-increasing-enterococci-looming-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic-resistant bacteria</a>. 



By understanding the network of genes that work together, scientists could develop more effective treatments.



"We can use this approach to synthesize new kinds of genetic constructs that could be used to develop new drugs or vaccines," Dr. Beavan continued. 



"Knowing what we now know has opened the door to a whole host of other discoveries."



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



The study's insights might also help in the fight against climate change. 



By engineering microorganisms that can capture carbon or break down pollutants, we could develop new tools to reduce our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-changes-in-diet-can-greatly-reduce-your-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental footprint</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-personalized-medicine-0">Advancing personalized medicine</h2>



The predictability of gene interactions could also revolutionize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personalized medicine</a>. 



Imagine doctors being able to predict how a disease might progress in your body based on your genetic makeup, or which treatments would be most effective for you. 



This research could bring us one step closer to that reality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-gene-manipulation-and-the-future">Evolution, gene manipulation, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, this new research is shaking up how we think about evolution. Instead of seeing it as a series of random events, the study suggests there's a level of predictability influenced by gene families and genetic history. 



This is obviously a very big deal for many other reasons besides the fact that it upends everything we thought we knew about evolution since Charles Darwin burst onto the scene. 



This discovery means that we might be able to anticipate and even guide <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finch-beaks-and-bird-songs-a-new-story-of-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary changes</a> in ways we never thought possible.



The practical applications are vast. From developing new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance to engineering organisms that can help fight climate change, the possibilities are exciting. 



The idea that we can target not just harmful genes but also their "supporting cast" opens up new avenues in medicine and environmental science.



Overall, this study invites us to rethink some fundamental assumptions about life and evolution. It's not just about chance anymore; there's a pattern and order we can tap into. 



As we learn more, who knows what other doors might open? It's an exciting time to be alive, and an exciting time to be a scientist.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2304934120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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New evolution discovery is being called "nothing short of revolutionary"

Evolution has always been seen as a complex, random, and...

Where did planets come from? This question has intrigued skywatchers and astronomers for many years.



In the 18th century, Immanuel Kant and Pierre-Simon Laplace proposed that planets were born from a disk of dust and gas surrounding the nascent Sun.



This theory was based on the observation that all planets revolve around the Sun in the same plane and share a common direction of orbit. The scientists compared this particular trait to a record spinning on a phonograph.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planets-around-young-stars">Planets around young stars</h2>



It was only after two centuries that the theory was backed up with compelling evidence. When <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/infrared-astronomical-satellite-iras/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRAS</a> (Infrared Astronomical Satellite) captured the curious excess of infrared light from the dust around the star Vega, it supported the idea of disks forming around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">young stars</a>.



But as we continue to dig deeper and explore further, we stumble upon new surprises. When astronomers from the University of Arizona decided to aim for a closer look at the Vega system using the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes, they discovered something intriguing.



It appears the Vega disk is phenomenally smooth. The characteristic churning and plowing seen in other stellar disks, usually caused by planets, is absent here. 



In fact, the Vega disk seems almost as flat as a pancake, showing no evidence of any planets. This challenges our previous understanding and calls for a reassessment of the variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rogue-star-zoomed-by-our-solar-system-disrupted-planetary-orbits-stretched-edges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary systems</a>.



"Our observations of Vega surprise us at every turn, and force us to rethink our understanding of exoplanetary systems," said study lead author Kate Su.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tale-of-two-stars">Tale of two stars</h2>



Fomalhaut is a star similar to Vega in terms of distance, age, and temperature. Yet, their systems show stark architectural differences. Fomalhaut has three debris belts, indicating the potential presence of planets that could be regulating the dust into rings.



"Given the physical similarity between the stars of Vega and Fomalhaut, why does Fomalhaut seem to have been able to form planets and Vega didn't?" said George Rieke of the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>, a member of the research team.



"What's the difference? Did the circumstellar environment, or the star itself, create that difference? What's puzzling is that the same physics is at work in both," added study co-author Schuyler Wolff.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-vega-star-system">History of Vega star system</h2>



Vega was the first star that hinted at the possibility of life-bearing planets - a theory proposed by Immanuel Kant in 1775.



Many decades later, in 1984, NASA's IRAS detected an excess of warm dust around Vega, interpreted as a shell or disk of dust. Subsequent observations with telescopes confirmed this fact but couldn't lend any significant details.



"The Hubble and Webb observations together provide so much more detail that they are telling us something completely new about the Vega system that nobody knew before," said Rieke. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-re-evaluating-planet-formation">Re-evaluating planet formation</h2>



The unexpected discovery of Vega's serene disk indicates that astronomers should reconsider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-nova-explosion-nearby-star-light-up-earths-skies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prevailing theories</a> of planet formation.



Traditionally, the chaotic churning of circumstellar disks, with their evident gaps and structures, has been indicative of planetary forces at work - shepherding dust and gas into ordered arrangements.



Yet, Vega's lack of these hallmarks suggests alternative mechanisms might govern system development in some stars. Could magnetic fields, stellar winds, or even the initial density and composition of the protoplanetary disk play a more pivotal role than previously imagined? 



Further investigations into Vega and similar systems could improve our understanding of the diverse pathways <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-asteroid-collision-detected-in-nearby-star-system-beta-pictoris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary systems</a> might take, challenging conventional wisdom and broadening our cosmic perspective.



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



Stars like Vega and Fomalhaut have profound implications for astrobiology, particularly in the quest to identify potentially habitable exoplanets. The presence or absence of planets within these systems influences the potential for life-sustaining environments.



If systems can evolve with little or no planetary formation disturbances, as Vega suggests, we may need to redefine the criteria used to search for habitable worlds. 



The serene disk of Vega, devoid of planetary influences, prompts questions about habitability outer limits and whether lifeless planets might yet harbor conditions capable of fostering life in nontraditional habitats. 



This new vista in planetary science reshapes not just our celestial maps, but potentially the very parameters of life itself in the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discoveries-beyond-stars-like-vega">Discoveries beyond stars like Vega</h2>



The <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> has been churning out revolutionary discoveries and enhancing our understanding of the universe for over three decades now. 



However, it isn't the only tool to accomplish this Herculean task. Hubble, managed by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and supported by Lockheed Martin Space, continues its exploration, while the James Webb Space Telescope is also making giant strides.



Webb, an international collaboration led by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) and Canadian Space Agency, surveys our solar system, investigates distant worlds, and probes mysterious structures and origins of our universe.



<a href="https://arxiv.org/pdf/2410.24042" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Two</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://arxiv.org/pdf/2410.23636" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">papers</a>&nbsp;from the Arizona team will be published in&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/0004-637X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a>.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, STScI, S. Wolff (University of Arizona)



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Vega star system discovery forces us to rethink planet formation

Where did planets come from? This question has intrigued skywatchers...

Mars and its tantalizing mysteries have spurred many space missions, each one revealing something new and compelling. NASA's Perseverance rover has been a prolific source of remarkable discoveries surrounding Mars and its moons, Phobos and Deimos. 



One such spectacle happened on September 30, 2024. From its unique vantage point, Perseverance captured Phobos <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Sun_Phobos-moon_transit_Perseverance-rover-photo_2.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sliding right in front of the Sun</a>.



"From its perch on the western wall of Mars’ Jezero Crater, NASA’s Perseverance rover recently spied a 'googly eye' peering down from space. The pupil in this celestial gaze is the Martian moon Phobos, and the iris is our Sun," said <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-perseverance-captures-googly-eye-during-solar-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phobos-eclipses-the-sun">Phobos eclipses the Sun</h2>



Phobos is a rather unassuming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-perseverance-rover-now-uses-ai-search-minerals-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial body</a> when you consider the company it keeps -- sharing Mars' orbit with its twin moon, Deimos. These two moons are the least massive in the solar system.



Despite its size, Phobos has a rather significant role. It casts its shadow right across the Martian surface as it orbits the planet. 



This happens because Phobos orbits exceptionally close to Mars -- closer than any moon to its parent planet in our solar system. 



This close proximity results in swift orbits, each complete revolution around Mars taking merely 7.6 hours.



And it was during one of these quick orbits that <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-2020-perseverance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseverance</a> caught the eclipse as Phobos transited across the Sun.



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Perseverance, equipped with its Mastcam-Z, documented the Martian landscape in detail and captured the fleeting yet awe-inspiring event of Phobos crossing the Sun. 



Despite its small size, the moon partially obscured our star, creating an impactful and mesmerizing visual effect. 



But, rather than just a beautiful cosmic spectacle, it allowed scientists a unique opportunity to explore deeper into the workings of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/perseverance-rover-finds-best-evidence-yet-life-on-mars-cheyava-falls-rock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian system</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-between-a-planet-and-its-moon">Interactions between a planet and its moon</h2>



By capturing spectacular visuals like the Phobos transit, Perseverance holds significant scientific value.



By observing these occurrences over time and comparing images and videos of earlier Phobos transits, scientists can get a better understanding of the moon's evolving orbit. 



The experts discovered that Phobos is gradually moving closer to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/perseverance-rover-samples-bunsen-peak-rock-jezero-crater-martian-lake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>. In about 50 million years, it is expected either to collide into Mars or disintegrate.



Studying these developments helps scientists comprehend the long-term gravitational interactions between a planet and its moon, contributing to our understanding of planetary evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perseverance-rover-mission">Perseverance rover mission</h2>



The Perseverance mission goes beyond observing mesmerizing eclipses. The rover's primary objective is astrobiology, actively searching for signs of ancient microbial life on Mars. 



It studies Mars' geology and climate. The rover analyzes Martian rock formations, serving as a crucial link in understanding Mars's past when the planet's conditions could have been suitable for life.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/sun_phobos-moon_transit_perseverance-rover-photo_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Sun_Phobos-moon_transit_Perseverance-rover-photo_1s.webp" alt="NASA's Perseverance Mars rover used its Mastcam-Z camera to capture the silhouette of Phobos, one of the two Martian moons, as it passed in front of the Sun on Feb. 8, 2024, the 1,056th Martian day, or sol, of the mission. This is one of several transits of Phobos that NASA's Mars rovers have captured. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1949097"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">NASA's Perseverance Mars rover used its Mastcam-Z camera to capture the silhouette of Phobos, one of the two Martian moons, as it passed in front of the Sun on Feb. 8, 2024, the 1,056th Martian day, or sol, of the mission. This is one of several transits of Phobos that NASA's Mars rovers have captured. Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



But that's not all. Perseverance is also responsible for collecting rock and soil samples from the Martian surface for future analysis back on Earth. It's a part of a mission being developed in partnership with the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).



Once these materials are transported back home, scientists can perform meticulous laboratory experiments not feasible with the rover's onboard instruments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imaging-the-sun-s-eclipse-with-phobos">Imaging the Sun's eclipse with Phobos</h2>



The Mastcam-Z on Perseverance was instrumental in capturing the stunning image of Phobos crossing the Sun.



This advanced imaging system was developed collectively by <a href="https://www.asu.edu/">Arizona State Uni</a><a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">v</a><a href="https://www.asu.edu/">ersity</a>, <a href="https://www.msss.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Malin Space Science Systems</a>, and the <a href="https://nbi.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niels Bohr Institute</a>.



The camera holds a vital position in making space exploration relatable by capturing visually captivating events that inspire public engagement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-vision-moon-to-mars">NASA's vision: Moon to Mars</h2>



The Perseverance mission forms a part of NASA's broader exploration strategy, "Moon to Mars."



The rover is not merely bound by scientific objectives but is also laying the groundwork for future space travel. 



Perseverance tests out new technology that could be beneficial for future astronauts, such as systems that could generate oxygen from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/perseverance-rover-begins-steep-climb-up-martian-crater-rim-jezero-crater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> atmosphere.



The footage of the Martian moon as it eclipses the Sun is a reminder of the vastness and the wonders of space exploration. 



As Perseverance reveals the secrets of Mars, it helps us learn about our universe and brings us closer to visiting the Red Planet.



Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU/MSSS



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Mars' moon Phobos captured eclipsing the Sun from the Martian surface by Perseverance rover

Mars and its tantalizing mysteries have spurred many space missions,...

Marine heatwaves are posing a new threat to the ocean’s delicate balance, affecting even its tiniest yet most vital inhabitants - phytoplankton.



These microscopic algae provide food for countless marine species and play a crucial role in regulating our planet’s climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phytoplankton-heroes-of-the-ocean">Phytoplankton: Heroes of the ocean</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a> are the unsung heroes of our oceans, working behind the scenes to keep marine ecosystems thriving. 



Though invisible to the naked eye, these microscopic algae are constantly at work, producing organic carbon through photosynthesis and supporting nearly every level of the marine food web. 



They also play a vital role in the ocean's carbon cycle, contributing significantly to the regulation of Earth’s climate.



Spring has traditionally been their peak season. As winter fades, nutrient-rich waters from the ocean’s depths rise to the surface, sparking an explosion of growth known as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton bloom</a>. 



But now, a recent study suggests that these essential phytoplankton blooms are facing serious and potentially long-lasting threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-heatwaves-disrupt-spring-blooms">Marine heatwaves disrupt spring blooms</h2>



The study was conducted by experts at the <a href="https://www.ricercamarina.cnr.it/en/ismar.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Marine Sciences of the National Research Council of Italy</a> (CNR-ISMAR) as part of ESA’s CAREHeat project.



The researchers examined phytoplankton blooms in the North-Western Mediterranean Sea. They found that marine heatwaves, periods of prolonged unusually warm seawater, have been disrupting the timing and intensity of these essential spring phytoplankton blooms.



Winter marine heatwaves are particularly menacing as they intensify the stratification of ocean water. In other words, they prevent nutrients from the deep-sea layers from mixing with surface waters.



The warmer water can lead to a significant reduction in the phytoplankton's carbon biomass - up to 70% during the spring bloom. This drastic reduction means there are fewer nutrients available, leading to a change in the balance of the marine food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-across-the-food-chain">Ripple effects across the food chain</h2>



"We observed that intense winter marine heatwaves delay the timing of phytoplankton blooms. This shift causes a mismatch in the availability of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zooplankton-are-rapidly-escalating-the-threat-of-nanoplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zooplankton</a>, which rely on these blooms for food, potentially affecting fish and other marine species that depend on zooplankton," explained study co-author Emanuele Organelli.



Moreover, severe marine heatwaves can also impact an ecosystem's ability to sequester carbon, which is crucial for global climate regulation. 



If these disruptions continue, the balance of marine biodiversity could be thrown off, impacting both local habitats and global processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-marine-heatwaves-and-ocean-health">Tracking marine heatwaves and ocean health</h2>



To better understand and address this growing problem, the researchers turned to technology. They used sea surface temperature data from ESA’s Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI) and various satellite platforms, like the Copernicus Sentinel-3’s Sea and Land Surface Temperature Radiometer.



This allowed the experts to track and categorize heatwave events in the Mediterranean from 2012 to 2022.



"Ongoing satellite monitoring by ESA is crucial for tracking and addressing these growing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-heatwaves-escalate-coral-bleaching-threats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threats</a> to marine biodiversity," said ESA scientist Marie-Helene Rio.



"The increasing frequency of marine heatwaves may further compromise vital ocean services, such as fisheries and the ocean’s ability to sequester carbon – processes that are key to both marine ecosystems and global climate stability.”



These tiny marine allies need our help, and monitoring of marine heatwaves could be our first step towards preventing a potentially catastrophic ripple effect through marine ecosystems.



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



Marine heatwaves don’t just affect phytoplankton - they disrupt entire ocean ecosystems. 



As these tiny algae struggle to bloom, animals higher up in the food chain, like fish, seabirds, and even marine mammals, may find less food. The food shortage can lead to shifts in where species live and how they interact. 



For coastal communities, this disruption also hits close to home. Many rely on fishing to support their families, and fewer fish could mean a harder life for these communities.



With phytoplankton absorbing less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-may-flip-plankton-into-carbon-emitters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> due to heatwaves, there’s also a risk that climate change could speed up even more.



By keeping a close eye on marine heatwaves, scientists hope to protect our oceans. Their work will help guide efforts to protect sensitive areas and to develop new strategies to tackle climate change.



Image Credit: Copernicus Sentinel data (2024), processed by ESA



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How marine heatwaves impact ocean health

Marine heatwaves are posing a new threat to the ocean’s...

The COVID-19 pandemic certainly shook things up, changing our daily routines and lifestyles, including our means of transportation.



With mask mandates and lockdowns, many of us bid farewell to our daily commutes, while countries restricted international travel to curb the virus's spread. 



Four and a half years on, we are learning to coexist with the virus and starting to understand the impact of pandemic-related changes.



A recent study investigated how the pandemic reshaped energy consumption in the transportation sector across Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-pandemic-shifts-in-transportation">Post-pandemic shifts in transportation </h2>



The study was led by Helena Patiño, a PhD student from the <a href="https://www.uoc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universitat Oberta de Catalunya</a> (UOC). The research sheds light on the transportation transition during and after the pandemic.



The team examined how changing travel habits have affected energy consumption and emissions.



"Overall, Europeans have reduced car use since the pandemic, but have flown much more frequently," said Patiño. 



"However, trends vary considerably between countries. Some have resumed previous transport patterns, while others have managed to maintain a moderate reduction in transport use."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-sustainable-transportation">The future of sustainable transportation</h2>



Transportation, heavily reliant on nonrenewable energy sources, contributes about 37% of our global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-hidden-carbon-footprint-of-long-distance-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> dioxide (CO2) emissions, the primary greenhouse gas. 



Therefore, altering our travel behavior is critical to global climate strategies, like the European scheme for a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030.



"Achieving lasting changes in people's behavior is not easy," said Patiño. "Governments should support environmentally friendly transport options, such as bicycles and electric cars, and lead campaigns to change behavior, so that sustainable transport is not just an option, but the preferred choice for everyone."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-case-studies-from-different-countries">Case studies from different countries</h2>



Post-lockdown transport habits across Europe have displayed a contrasting recovery. In countries like Austria, Germany, and the United Kingdom, the impact has been less pronounced with only minor shifts in car and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flying-has-never-been-safer-and-continues-to-improve/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plane use</a>.



On the other hand, countries with stricter government regulations such as Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Spain saw a significant surge in travel post-lockdown.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transport-policies-and-behavioral-changes">Transport policies and behavioral changes</h2>



Interestingly, some countries managed to maintain changes brought on by the pandemic. Sweden, Denmark, and the Czech Republic, for instance, saw lasting effects. 



"Sweden already had a relatively high percentage of remote workers before the pandemic, but the number has continued to grow since then. Furthermore, since 2010, the country has been promoting outdoor leisure activities, facilitating access to places of natural beauty and promoting outdoor exercise," noted Patiño. 



"Denmark, in turn, has continued to invest in cycling infrastructure and electric bicycles. A recent survey found that Copenhagen residents are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cycling-could-dramatically-cut-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cycling</a> to work more than before the pandemic."



While it's unlikely a uniform shift towards less travel will occur across Europe, as per Patiño, the experiences of these three countries offer insights into how robust transport and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-countries-are-lagging-behind-in-the-shift-to-green-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy policies</a> can help sustain behavioral changes and reduce CO2 emissions, reshaping the future of mobility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reinventing-urban-spaces-for-sustainable-transit">Reinventing urban spaces for sustainable transit</h2>



The transformation of travel habits during the pandemic has opened doors to reimagining urban spaces to better support sustainable transit. 



European cities are increasingly prioritizing infrastructure that favors low-carbon transport, such as dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian-friendly areas, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biden-lays-out-plan-for-electric-vehicle-charging-stations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric vehicle charging stations</a>. 



Urban planners now have the opportunity to encourage greener modes of transportation by redesigning cities around sustainable travel. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-initiatives-for-sustainable-transportation">Initiatives for sustainable transportation </h2>



Cities like Paris, with its "15-minute city" model, aim to reduce reliance on cars by ensuring that residents can access most of their daily needs within a short walk or bike ride.



These initiatives are critical for a sustainable future as they encourage a shift from car dependency to more environmentally friendly alternatives. 



The success of such urban redesigns can serve as a blueprint for other cities aiming to curb emissions while promoting healthier, more resilient communities. 



With proper policies and infrastructure, Europe could set a global example for post-pandemic mobility that aligns with climate goals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-road-ahead-for-sustainable-mobility">The road ahead for sustainable mobility</h2>



As Europe continues to adapt to new mobility trends, the challenge lies in making these sustainable shifts permanent. 



Policymakers and urban planners are now focused on reinforcing eco-friendly practices, from expanding public transport networks to promoting zero-emission zones in major cities. 



By embracing these changes, Europe has the potential to lead a global movement towards greener, more resilient urban transport systems that meet both environmental and community needs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301421524002246?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Energy Policy</a>.



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Did the pandemic change our transportation habits?

The COVID-19 pandemic certainly shook things up, changing our daily...

By now, most of us are well aware of the severe damage inflicted by plastic on our environment. As the United Nations noted, 46% of plastic waste is landfilled, while 22% is mismanaged and becomes litter. 



"Unlike other materials, plastic does not biodegrade. It can take up to 1,000 years to break down, so when it is discarded, it builds up in the environment until it reaches a crisis point," said the UN.



"This pollution chokes marine wildlife, damages soil and poisons groundwater, and can cause serious health impacts."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-plastic-epidemic">The plastic epidemic</h2>



A recent study, funded by paper packaging company <a href="https://www.dssmith.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DS Smith</a>, presents an eye-opening revelation.



The research suggests that over half (51%) of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/9936-chemicals-found-in-plastic-products-used-for-food-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging</a> used for grocery items could either be minimized or eliminated altogether in the United Kingdom and most other countries in the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastic-used-in-food-packaging">Plastic used in food packaging</h2>



To reach this conclusion, scientists scrutinized plastic utilization on an extensive scale. 



They studied 1,500 food and drink products sold by the top five food retailers across six European countries -- France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, and the United Kingdom.



The team uses two distinct approaches -- a "basket analysis" and a "store inventory analysis."



The basket analysis assessed the percentage of regularly bought items in a typical shopping basket containing plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-is-responsible-for-the-burden-of-plastic-packaging-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">packaging</a>.



The store inventory analysis focused on the proportion of food and drink items packaged in plastic across various store sections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reliance-on-plastic-packaging">Reliance on plastic packaging </h2>



The study revealed that the bulk of plastic packaging in an average shopping basket originated from processed foods, including ready-meals and meal kits (90%); bread, rice, and cereals (89%), dairy products (83%), and meat and fish (80%).



The experts found that the UK leads the pack as the most reliant on plastic packaging, with 70% of all food and drink items on British shelves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/4200-harmful-plastic-chemicals-hidden-in-everyday-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">containing plastic</a>.



Spain was not far behind at 67%, followed by Italy and Germany (66%), Poland (62%), and France (59%).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-commitments-for-sustainable-packaging">Commitments for sustainable packaging </h2>



Adding another layer to the study, the researchers interviewed 300 food and drink industry professionals occupying senior positions linked to packaging. 



Most respondents (98%) expressed their companies' commitment to reduce plastic packaging. Interestingly, 60% of these have fewer than two years to fulfill their voluntary goals.



However, 40% of the respondents cited the cost of raw materials as a major hurdle, and there's apprehension that consumers might reject the changes.



A significant 72% of industry professionals felt that consumers wouldn't want to pay more for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whats-the-most-sustainable-packaging-the-answer-will-surprise-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable packaging</a>, and 65% believed consumers would not sacrifice convenience for sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmentally-conscious-brands">Environmentally conscious brands </h2>



Nonetheless, these concerns might be misguided. A 2023 Harvard Business Review study suggests that Gen Z and Millennial customers, who perceive a brand to be conscious of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> and social impact, are 27% more likely to choose it over others.



These generations' spending power is predicted to overtake that of Baby Boomers by 2030, translating to a wealth transfer of up to $68 trillion.



"We think the government can and should be more demanding of us all. Phasing out certain plastics to help create a level playing field that encourages innovation, investment and generates healthy competition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-retailers-are-replacing-plastic-bags-with-eco-friendly-paper-bags/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">replace plastic</a>," said DS Smith CEO Miles Roberts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-single-use-plastic-packaging-scourge">Single-use plastic packaging scourge</h2>



This type of plastic packaging is also referred to as "single-use plastics" because after you consume what's inside the packaging, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-plastic-straws-degrade-faster-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">use the straw</a> that came with a drink, the plastic is immediately thrown away and never used again. 



Humans are ingrained with the attitude "out of sight, out of mind," but just because you toss plastic into a bin, that's far from the end of it. 



Discarded plastics accumulate in landfills, litter our streets, and find their way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">into the oceans</a> where they enter the food chain.



Wildlife in every corner of the world is taking a big hit from all this plastic pollution. Sea turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, birds get tangled in discarded fishing lines, and marine animals ingest bits of plastic thinking it's food. It's heartbreaking to see <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-dropped-into-the-ocean-can-travel-hundreds-of-miles-while-sinking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">images of animals</a> suffering because of our throwaway culture.



The issue gets worse when you consider how long these plastics stick around. They can take thousands of years to break down, and even then, they're not truly gone. 



Instead, they break into tiny microplastics and nanoplastics that can be ingested by humans and wildlife, eventually entering the water supply and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infiltrating the cells in our bodies</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-policies-for-a-plastic-free-future">Policies for a plastic-free future</h2>



While industry leaders acknowledge the importance of reducing plastic packaging, significant change may require stronger government intervention, ultimately leading to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-treaty-talks-slow-progress-yet-restored-hope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global plastics treaty</a>.



Regulatory frameworks, such as plastic taxes, bans on single-use plastics, or incentives for sustainable packaging, could accelerate progress. 



Countries like France have already enacted laws to reduce plastic use in supermarkets, aiming to phase out disposable plastics by 2040. 



These policies hold companies accountable and encourage innovation in eco-friendly materials and waste reduction strategies.



In the UK, policymakers have introduced initiatives like the Plastic Packaging Tax, yet experts argue that more comprehensive regulations are needed to drive lasting impact. 



Setting clear goals for plastic reduction could stimulate a competitive market that favors recyclable and biodegradable alternatives.



As consumer awareness grows, the pressure on both government and industry is mounting. Future policy directions could determine the pace and success of the journey toward a more sustainable grocery sector, balancing the demands of convenience, cost, and environmental impact.



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Plastic use in food packaging could be, and should be, drastically reduced

By now, most of us are well aware of the...

Welcome to the fascinating, albeit daunting, world of climate action. While it may seem like a constant barrage of distressing news, it is not all grim.



Some promising developments have emerged from the front lines of climate action, offering hope amid the crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoupling-economic-growth-from-emissions">Decoupling economic growth from emissions</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK) in Germany found that 30% of global regions have successfully managed to decouple economic growth from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a>.



"Historically, economic growth has been closely coupled to carbon emissions responsible for climate change, but to stabilize global mean temperature, net-zero carbon emissions are necessary," wrote the researchers.



"Some economies have begun to reduce emissions while continuing to grow, but this decoupling is not fast enough to achieve global climate targets."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-progress-in-climate-action">Global progress in climate action</h2>



It is a commonly held notion that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-temperature-variability-linked-to-slow-economic-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">economic growth</a> is inevitably intertwined with carbon emissions. 



This belief has long been a significant barrier in the fight against climate change, as many fear that robust economic development comes at an environmental cost. However, recent studies have been proving this wrong.



“Regions with high incomes and a history of carbon-intensive industries, as well as those with significant shares of service and manufacturing sectors were particularly successful in reducing carbon emissions while still experiencing economic growth,” said study co-author Anders Levermann.



“A stabilization of the global mean temperature is only possible with net-zero carbon emissions. That means that if economies want to grow, they need to be decoupled from CO2 emissions.”



This decoupling is a significant breakthrough, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve economic prosperity without further harming the planet. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-local-climate-action">The power of local climate action</h2>



The researchers have not been focusing solely on nations or individual cities, as is the norm. They have taken a more granular approach while keeping their scope global.



The team analyzed 1,500 subnational regions, accounting for a whopping 85% of global emissions. The experts identified significant global patterns of decoupling.



The analysis reveals that local climate action has emerged as a powerful force in driving decoupling efforts. Regions that have prioritized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mature-forests-play-a-surprising-role-in-climate-mitigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate mitigation</a> through strategic planning and targeted funding are leading the way, showing that focused local initiatives can fuel broader progress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-decoupling-trends">Global decoupling trends</h2>



"Specifically, EU cities that have implemented climate mitigation plans and regions that have received increased financial support for climate actions tend to show higher rates of decoupling," said lead author Maria Zioga.



"Notably, Europe consistently outperforms other parts of the world, with many of its regions showing a continuous decoupling trend over the past 20 years." 



"In contrast, North America and Asia have seen more fluctuating decoupling patterns over the decades, but there's been an improvement trend in the last decade.”



This success highlights the importance of empowering local governments and communities to take initiative in climate action. 



By tailoring strategies to local conditions and needs, regions can achieve more effective and efficient outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achieving-net-zero-emissions">Achieving net-zero emissions</h2>



Despite the progress, the road ahead remains challenging. The PIK scientists estimate that if current decoupling rates persist, less than half of the subnational regions will be able to achieve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/residual-emissions-must-be-addressed-to-reach-net-zero/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">net-zero carbon emissions</a> by 2050.



The challenge is formidable, as it requires a comprehensive transformation of energy systems, industrial processes, and societal behaviors.



"Developed countries appear likely to fulfill these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-meet-climate-targets-with-carbon-capture-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">targets</a> ahead of others, but overall recent trends appear inadequate for achieving the net-zero by mid-century in most regions," said study co-author Max Kotz.



"Therefore, all levels of government need to step up and developed countries in particular should increase their efforts and investment in the energy transition in the countries of the global south in order to meet net-zero targets globally.”



The science is clear, and the path is laid out. We must invest in renewable energy, innovate in technology, and strengthen international cooperation to ensure that the gains made in decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions are expanded and sustained.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2411419121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Climate action: Economies can grow while cutting emissions

Welcome to the fascinating, albeit daunting, world of climate action....

October 2024 will be remembered by the locals around Pyramid Lake, Nevada, for a rather unusual display of nature's colors and patterns. 



The usually serene waters of the lake unleashed a stunning exhibition of blue-green algae, dancing and swirling across the surface. 



For the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=944807254356712&amp;set=pb.100064823373179.-2207520000" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Water Quality Program</a>, this bloom was arguably the most active in recent times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-pyramid-lake-from-space">Studying Pyramid Lake from space</h2>



The bloom, which added a touch of mystery to the lake, was so expansive that it was visible from space. The locals, bemused by this phenomenon, couldn't help but talk about it. 



Luckily, providing a better look at this spectacle was the <a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landsat 9 satellite</a>, which snapped astonishing natural-color images on October 8, 2024. 



Looking at the images captured by Operational Land Imager-2 (<a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/landsat-9-instruments/oli-2-design/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OLI-2</a>), you could see the mesmerizing swirling, whirlpool patterns created by the algae.



Nodularia spumigena, a type of cyanobacteria, is the culprit that is responsible for the bloom. 



This particular species thrives in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-from-africa-sparked-a-massive-phytoplankton-bloom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warm, saline waters</a> and can pull nitrogen right out of the atmosphere -- handy skills that ensured its survival in Pyramid Lake over the years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-beautiful-but-stay-away">It's beautiful, but stay away</h2>



What's fascinating about Nodularia spumigena, aside from its beauty, is its ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. This means it can create its own nutrients and outcompete other organisms when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrogen-overlooked-component-eutrophication-lake-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen levels in the water</a> are low.



But there's a flip side. Nodularia spumigena can produce a toxin called nodularin, which is harmful to both animals and humans. If you come into contact with water contaminated by this toxin, it can lead to serious health issues, especially affecting the liver. 



That's why when blooms of this cyanobacterium occur, health authorities often warn people to steer clear of the water until things return to normal.



Respectively, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe raised a safety flag on October 15, 2024, advising people to avoid contact with the water until it returned to its normal state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cyanobacteria-and-phytoplankton">Understanding cyanobacteria and phytoplankton</h2>



Phytoplankton and cyanobacteria are both tiny organisms that live in water, but there's a key difference between them. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-plants-into-carbon-capture-machines-with-cyanobacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cyanobacteria</a>, also called blue-green algae, are actually bacteria that can photosynthesize -- they use sunlight to make food, much like plants do. Despite their name, they're not true algae.



These little guys have been around for billions of years, and you can find them almost everywhere: in oceans, lakes, soil, and even in extreme environments like hot springs. Cyanobacteria are actually responsible for producing a lot of the oxygen that made life possible on Earth.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-heatwaves-have-complex-effects-on-phytoplankton-food-web/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phytoplankton</a>, on the other hand, is a broader term that includes any microscopic organisms in the water that can photosynthesize. This group encompasses a variety of species, including algae and, interestingly enough, cyanobacteria. 



So, in a way, cyanobacteria are a type of phytoplankton, but not all phytoplankton are cyanobacteria.



Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky. While cyanobacteria are crucial for ecosystems and the oxygen we breathe, some species can produce toxins that are harmful to animals and humans. If you've ever heard about beaches closing because of harmful algal blooms, cyanobacteria are often the culprits. 



So, they play a double role: they're essential for life, but under certain conditions, such as this toxic bloom in Pyramid Lake, they can pose some serious health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pyramid-lake-past-present-and-future">Pyramid Lake: Past, present and future</h2>



Pyramid Lake is a piece of history. It's a remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan, created during the last ice age. 



Scientists speculate that the cyanobacteria Nodularia spumigena has been a part of this ecosystem since that era.



This lake isn’t just about the water or the spectacular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ocean-turning-green-thanks-to-climate-change-algae-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae blooms</a>. It's home to the endangered cui-ui fish (Chasmistes cuius) -- a species held in high regard by the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. 



Anglers will also recognize it as the site where a world-record Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi) weighing a whopping 41 pounds was caught in 1925.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-the-bloom">Monitoring the bloom</h2>



To keep a pulse on these blooms and their implications, scientists and environmental organizations utilize various tools. 



For instance, the <a href="https://www.sfei.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">San Francisco Estuary Institute</a>'s water quality analysis tool indicated a surge in levels of chlorophyll-a between late September and mid-October. 



This invaluable data helps researchers understand the occurrence and potential impacts of such blooms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-pyramid-lake-for-the-future">Preserving Pyramid Lake for the future</h2>



This beautiful, toxic bloom underscores the importance of monitoring and conserving our aquatic ecosystems. 



Factors like temperature shifts, nutrient levels, and changes in water conditions can spark cyanobacteria growth almost anywhere on Earth.



The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe is keeping residents and visitors up-to-date on the lake's condition. 



By heeding safety recommendations and staying informed, we can all play a part in safeguarding ourselves and this delicate ecosystem.



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NASA Earth Observatory image by <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/about/wanmei-liang" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wanmei Liang</a>, using Landsat data from the <a href="http://earthexplorer.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>. Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lukegordon/3377729218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke H. Gordon</a>. Story by <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/about/lindsey-doermann" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lindsey Doermann</a>.



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Pyramid Lake water turns dark green with beautiful swirling whirlpool currents

October 2024 will be remembered by the locals around Pyramid...

A recent study points to an exciting possibility: that Uranus's moon Miranda, located in the far reaches of our solar system, may harbor a hidden sea beneath its icy crust, making it hospitable to extraterrestrial life.



Discovering water on a moon is no easy task. It's even harder when that moon is hundreds of millions of miles away.



Tom Nordheim, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JHAPL</a>), is the person who gave us a peek into these icy depths. 



"To find evidence of an ocean inside a small object like Miranda is incredibly surprising," said Nordheim, who co-authored the study. 



His team's work challenges our understanding of Miranda while positing new questions about the potential for life on other celestial bodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-miranda-s-bizarre-moonscape">Miranda's bizarre moonscape</h2>



Recall 1986 when <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>, NASA's intrepid spacecraft, beamed back the first close-up images of Miranda. It was a sight to behold.



A bizarre landscape that looked as if it had been stitched together from bits and pieces of different worlds. 



From deep grooves and towering cliffs to mysterious trapezoid-shaped regions known as coronae, Miranda appeared to be a geological wonder. But what could have caused such a varied landscape?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-deal-with-uranus">What's the deal with Uranus?</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-is-more-gassy-less-icy-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a> is one of the lesser-known planets in our solar system. Unlike the other planets, Uranus rotates on its side, so its axis is almost parallel to its orbit. 



This tilt causes some extreme seasons -- imagine a planet where each pole gets 42 years of continuous sunlight followed by 42 years of darkness. 



Scientists think a massive collision with an Earth-sized object might have knocked it over early in its history.



Another interesting aspect is Uranus's atmosphere, which is rich in icy materials like water, ammonia, and methane. That methane is what gives the planet its <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-ice-giant-uranus-in-stunning-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">signature blue-green color</a>. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-photos-of-uranus-from-hubble-and-new-horizons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a> also has a set of faint rings and at least 27 moons, many named after Shakespearean characters like Miranda, which is the subject of this article, and Ariel. 



Despite being discovered way back in 1781 by William Herschel, Uranus still holds many secrets, and researchers are eager to explore it further to understand more about these distant, icy worlds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-ocean-on-a-moon-named-miranda">Hidden ocean on a moon named Miranda</h2>



Caleb Strom, a graduate student at the <a href="https://und.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Dakota</a>, and Alex Patthoff from the <a href="https://www.psi.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Planetary Science Institute</a> in Arizona joined Nordheim for this fascinating study.



They approached this mystery like detectives working a cold case, revisiting old Voyager 2 images and using modern computer modeling techniques to reconstruct Miranda's geologic past.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/miranda_uranus-moon_ocean_possible-life_Voyager2_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/miranda_uranus-moon_ocean_possible-life_Voyager2_NASA_1s.webp" alt="Uranus’ icy moon Miranda, captured by NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft on Jan. 24, 1986. Credit: NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory-Caltech" class="wp-image-1949103"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Uranus’ icy moon Miranda, captured by NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft on Jan. 24, 1986. Credit: NASA/Jet Propulsion Laboratory-Caltech</figcaption></figure>



As Strom and his team mapped out Miranda's convoluted surface features and modeled different scenarios for its interior structure, a startling picture began to emerge. 



Their findings suggest that around 100 to 500 million years ago, Miranda likely harbored a subsurface ocean, at least 62 miles deep, beneath a frozen crust no more than 19 miles thick.



"That result was a big surprise to the team," said Strom. The thought that a moon as small as Miranda could contain such a large ocean is not something scientists expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tidal-forces-on-the-moon-miranda">Tidal forces on the moon Miranda</h2>



Even more confusing is the fact that this ocean could have been warm enough to remain liquid, despite Miranda's incredible distance from the Sun. 



The credit goes to a dance of gravitational forces played out between Miranda and her neighboring moons orbiting Uranus.



This phenomenon, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-interactions-with-mars-influence-deep-ocean-circulation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orbital resonance</a>, can generate friction and heat within a moon's interior, enough to sustain a subsurface ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-miranda-still-have-a-liquid-ocean">Could Miranda still have a liquid ocean?</h2>



The case isn't closed yet. The team believes that Miranda's interior hasn't entirely frozen over. If it had, we would see specific surface features that just aren't there. 



So, there's a good chance that Miranda still has a subsurface ocean, though likely thinner than before. 



"But the suggestion of an ocean inside one of the most distant moons in the solar system is remarkable," remarked Strom.



This isn't the first time a small moon has surprised us. Back in 2004, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-sparking-energy-source-found-on-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a>, one of Saturn's moons, revealed active geysers spewing water vapor and ice into space, hinting at a hidden ocean. Today, Enceladus is a prime target in the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-saturns-moon-enceladus-has-all-of-the-ingredients-necessary-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-the-miranda-moon-support-life">Could the Miranda moon support life?</h2>



It's still too early to pack our bags for Miranda, but the possibility of it harboring life is tantalizing. However, as Nordheim points out, we still need more data to confirm if an ocean definitely exists.



While recent research has provided fresh insights into Uranus's moons, we've barely scratched the surface. 



"We're squeezing the last bit of science we can from Voyager 2's images," says Nordheim. 



To truly understand Miranda's potential, we need to launch new missions to Uranus. Until then, we hold our breath and watch this icy moon with great anticipation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-miranda-ocean-worlds-and-extraterrestrial-life">Miranda, ocean worlds, and extraterrestrial life</h2>



In the grand scheme of our solar system, Miranda might just be the underdog story we didn't see coming. 



This tiny moon, once thought to be a frozen, inactive world, could be hiding a vast ocean beneath its patchwork surface. 



The idea that such a small body, orbiting one of the most distant planets, might have an environment capable of sustaining life is nothing short of mind-blowing.



All of this goes to show that there's so much left to discover out there. Revisiting old data with fresh eyes has opened up new possibilities and questions. 



Maybe it's high time we head back to Uranus and take a closer look at Miranda and its neighboring moons.



The full study was published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/ad77d7">The Planetary Science Journal</a>.



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Moon named "Miranda" orbiting Uranus seems to have an ocean and possibly life

A recent study points to an exciting possibility: that Uranus's...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a> describes a big data study by experts at UT Austin that could revolutionize earthquake science.&nbsp;The research is focused on a massive rock called the Kumano Pluton, which is buried miles beneath the coast of southern Japan.&nbsp;



Based on 20 years of seismic data processed through one of the world's most powerful supercomputers, the scientists have developed the first complete, 3D visualization of Kumano Pluton.



The results of the analysis suggest that the mountain-sized rock now may be acting like a "lightning rod" that channels energy into the megaquakes seen in the this region.&nbsp;



While scientists have known about thy existence of Kumano Pluton for years, they were only aware of small sections of it. The UT Austin study provides a view of the entire rock formation. This will enable experts to study the pluton's effect on regional tectonics.&nbsp;



According to study co-author Shuichi Kodaira, director of the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, the findings will provide critical information for a major new Japanese government-funded project to find out whether another major earthquake is building in the Nankai subduction zone, where the pluton is located.



"We cannot predict exactly when, where, or how large future earthquakes will be, but by combining our model with monitoring data, we can begin estimating near-future processes," said Kodaira, who was among the scientists who first discovered the Kumano Pluton in 2006. "That will provide very important data for the Japanese public to prepare for the next big earthquake."



"The fact that we can make such a large discovery in an area that is already well studied is, I think, eye opening to what might await at places that are less well monitored," said study lead author Adrien Arnulf, a research assistant professor at the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics.



Image/ Video Credit: National Science Foundation/ UT Austin&nbsp;



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

Kumano Pluton could be a magnet for megaquakes

[sendtonews key="xD9vsIXoKi-1905077-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Astronomer,With,A,Telescope,Watching,At,The,Stars,And,Moon.

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Today’s Video of the Day from NASA's <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> describes what you can get a glimpse of this month in the October sky. 



"Giant planets Jupiter and Saturn are visible throughout the night in October. Early in the evening, you'll find them to the southeast, moving slowly westward with the stars over the course of the night. They form a triangle with bright star Fomalhaut," says NASA.



"When observing this trio, note how the planets shine with a steady light, while the star twinkles. This can be an easy way to know if what you're looking at is a planet or a star."



Over the next few months, Mars will appear to change direction. This is called retrograde, and occurs when the apparent motion of a planet is in the opposite direction of other bodies within its system,



The Orionid meteor shower is active in October and November, and will peak on the night of October 20. At its peak, this shower usually produces 10 to 20 meteors per hour.



Video Credit: NASA JPL



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

October stargazing: Mars retrograde and the Orionid meteor shower

[sendtonews key="63NQhFvafn-2276563-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA's...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. The archipelago consists of eight main islands including Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Palma, as well as many small islands and islets. The Canary Islands make up the southernmost region of Spain in the Atlantic Ocean.&nbsp;



Tenerife is dominated by Mount Teide, the third largest volcano in the world. Teide National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is located in the center of the island. Tourists flock to the beaches of Tenerife, which have sand that ranges in color from golden yellow to black.&nbsp;



"Owing to the island’s diverse topography and unique climatic factors, Tenerife has multiple microclimates, which means that the weather can vary drastically from one part of the island to the other," says ESA.



"Weather and climate are heavily influenced by the trade winds blowing from the northeast for most of the year, bringing humidity and precipitation to the north of the island, as well as to the northern slopes of Mount Teide."&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency



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

Tenerife in the Canary Islands

[sendtonews key="b3yIdenGyb-1803835-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new data release from the Gaia observatory, which was launched in 2013. The observatory has been mapping our galaxy from Lagrange point 2, creating the most accurate and complete multi-dimensional map of the Milky Way.



"By now two full sets of data have been released, the first set in 2016 and a second one in 2018. These data contained stellar positions, distances, motions across the sky, and colour information, among others," says ESA.



On June 13, 2022 a third full data set was released. ESA said this data release contains even more and improved information about almost two billion stars, Solar System objects and extragalactic sources. 



"It also includes radial velocities for 33 million stars, a five-time increase compared to data release 2," explains ESA. "Another novelty in this data set is the largest catalog yet of binary stars in the Milky Way, which is crucial to understand stellar evolution."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Gaia is mapping the Milky Way in unprecedented detail

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, part of the Canary Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. The false-color image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"The Canary Islands are a group of ocean island volcanoes that were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The Spanish region and archipelago is located around 100 km off the north coast of Africa and 1,000 km from the Iberian Peninsula," says ESA.



"The eight main islands are (in order of largest to smallest in area) Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa. The archipelago also includes many smaller islands and islets."



Lanzarote is the third most populous Canary Island, with a population of 150,000, and is also the easternmost island in the archipelago.



"Lanzarote has a long history of eruptions and is often referred to as the ‘Island of the 1000 volcanoes,' yet it is actually the least mountainous Canarian Island," reports ESA.



"The highest mountain is the volcano Peñas del Chache near Haría in the northern part of the island, which is 670 m above sea level. The Timanfaya National Park can be seen in the southwest part of the island and is entirely made up of volcanic soil."



Fuerteventura Island is the second largest of the Canaries. It is also the oldest, emerging between 12 and 20 million years ago.



"The island is fairly flat and has a desert landscape of sand and stones as well as long beaches," says ESA. "The center of the island is made up of a wide, elongated valley and, from north to south, is dissected by a series of extinct, eroded volcanoes. The west coast is dotted with rugged cliffs and small bays."



Video Credit: ESA



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

Fuerteventura and Lanzarote of the Canary Islands

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> (ESA) reveals an image from the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission which illustrates the extreme temperatures that struck Britain in August. Summer heatwaves also affected North Africa, Asia, and the United States.



"The image, captured on 12 August 2022, shows the United Kingdom’s previously green land appear brown (particularly in the southeast) amid the scorching conditions. The heatwave comes after months of extreme temperatures and low rainfall left the landscape parched. The dry conditions are also visible in parts of France, Belgium and the Netherlands," says ESA.



"The severe heatwaves experienced across Europe this summer are a harsh reminder of what is in store for our future.&nbsp; Extreme weather events will happen more frequently and intensely according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This trend is set to worsen unless the rise in atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions caused by human activities is addressed."



Video Credit: ESA



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

Impacts of UK heatwaves can be seen from space

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a> reveals that lizards could provide new insight into how species have evolved over centuries.  Understanding how environmental changes have affected animals in the past can help predict how they will be affected in the future.



A research team led by Dr. Melissa Kemp, a paleobiologist at the University of Texas at Austin, is studying lizards to find out more about a process called "adaptive radiation," or how organisms evolve to adapt to changing environments. The research is focused on lizards in the&nbsp; Caribbean.



"If we can gain any insights from past instances of extinction, it might be informative of what communities might look like in the future as these communities undergo future environmental changes," Dr. Kemp said in a profile piece by UT Austin.&nbsp;



Image/ Video Credit: National Science Foundation/ UT Austin&nbsp;



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

Lizards hold secrets of how animals evolve

[sendtonews key="aCpmMcvr6y-1900663-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Milky,Way,In,The,Night,Sky

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/">NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> features some tips for skywatchers in August 2022. 



The morning quartet of planets will come to an end in August - with Venus and Saturn making their exits on opposite sides of the sky. Mars and Jupiter, however, will remain visible.&nbsp;



"The daily parade of four naked-eye planets in the mornings comes to an end this month. But there are still lots of great highlights, especially if you have access to binoculars," says NASA. "Plus, Saturn and Jupiter are returning to nighttime skies!"&nbsp;



"The outlook for the Perseid meteors isn't great due to a full moon on the peak night of August 12, but still it's worth keeping an eye out for early Perseids after midnight the week before. And August is a great month to learn an easy-to-spot constellation – Cygnus the swan."



Video Credit: NASA JPL



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

NASA reveals what you can find in the August sky

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Great Lakes - Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario - captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission.&nbsp;



According to ESA, the lakes represent the largest surface of freshwater in the world with a combined area of around 244,000 square kilometers, covering an area larger than the United Kingdom.



The lakes were formed around 100,000 years ago, when a massive ice sheet and giant glaciers transformed the landscape across most of Canada and part of the United States. As the ice melted, holes left behind from glaciers filled with meltwater and formed thousands of lakes. 



Huron is one of the five American great lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes. It forms a natural border between the American state of Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

The Great Lakes of North America

[sendtonews key="NI7Vm4m68S-1656140-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Galápagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. This region is one of the most famous places on the planet for viewing wildlife.



The Galápagos Islands are home to many native plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, including giant tortoises and sea lions.&nbsp;



When Charles Darwin visited the islands in 1835, his wildlife observations inspired the theory of evolution by natural selection. In 1959, the Ecuadorian government made the entire archipelago a national park to protect its unique diversity.



The archipelago is made up of 13 major islands and several smaller islands and islets across 60,000 square kilometers of ocean. According to ESA, repeated volcanic eruptions and ongoing seismic activity have helped form the rugged mountain landscape of the islands. The most populated islands of Galapagos are San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela.



The largest of the Galapagos Islands, Isabela, was formed from the joining of six shield volcanoes - Ecuador, Wolf, Darwin, Alcedo, Sierra Negra, and Cerro Azul. Volcanic activity persisted in the Galapagos for at least 20 million years, and possibly&nbsp; even longer. The archipelago is characterized by large contemporaneous volcanoes - some with plume magma sources, others from the asthenosphere. 



Video Credit: ESA



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

The Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific

Today's Video of the Day from the European Space Agency...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> reveals a fascinating discovery from Gaia, a space observatory launched in 2013. The researchers have discovered that Gaia is capable of detecting starquakes – tiny motions on the surface of stars that change their shape. This is unexpected, considering that detecting starquakes is not something that Gaia was built for.  



"Previously, Gaia already found radial oscillations that cause stars to swell and shrink periodically, while keeping their spherical shape. But Gaia has now also spotted other vibrations that are more like large-scale tsunamis. These nonradial oscillations change the global shape of a star and are therefore harder to detect," says ESA.



"Nonradial oscillation modes cause a star's surface to move while it rotates, as shown in the animation. Dark patches are slightly cooler than bright patches, giving rise to periodic changes in the brightness of the star. The frequency of the rotating and pulsating stars was increased 8.6 million times to shift them into the audible range of humans."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Gaia spacecraft is capable of detecting starquakes

[sendtonews key="LRZLMOOJnC-2068299-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Italian city of Carrara, which is known around the world for its prestigious marble. Carrara is located on the Carrione River in northern Tuscany about 130 kilometers from Florence.&nbsp;



"The city is famous for its white or blue-grey marble, called Carrara, taken from nearby quarries in the Apuan Alps, a mountain range that stretches for approximately 55 kilometers and reaching around 2,000 meters high," reports ESA. "What appears as snow cover on the rugged mountains is actually bright white marble, contrasting with Tuscany’s lush green vegetation."



According to ESA, Carrara marble is one of the most prestigious marbles in the world, and its quarries produce more marble than any other place on Earth. The famous stone was formed by calcite-rich shells that were left behind by marine organisms after they died.&nbsp;



"When water bodies evaporate, the deposited remains form limestone, and when buried under multi-tonne layers of rock, the intense heat and pressure cause the limestone to metamorphose into marble," explains ESA.



"The special quality of the Carrara marble has made it a popular resource for many famous sculptures, including Michelangelo’s Pietà, and has been used for some of the most remarkable buildings in Ancient Rome, including the Pantheon and Trajan’s Column."



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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

Carrara, Italy and its world famous marble

[sendtonews key="b48nhjQ1oE-1879411-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...