<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132.</p>



<p>The nebula is located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).</p>



<p>The Southern Ring Nebula is one of the more famous examples of planetary nebulae. It is often studied for its beauty and valuable insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-power-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Stars power the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star is actually a less massive companion. The fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. </p>



<p>The dimmer star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.</p>



<p>“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years.” </p>



<p>“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence." </p>



<p>ESA explained that the pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Key characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Southern Ring Nebula displays a complex structure with multiple layers of gas and dust. </p>



<p>The outer shells of the nebula consist of hydrogen and other elements that were ejected from the dying star in previous stages of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>. These layers are illuminated by ultraviolet radiation from the central white dwarf.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coloration">Coloration</h3>



<p>The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. </p>



<p>These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-shape">Size and shape</h3>



<p>The nebula spans about half a light-year in diameter. Its intricate, symmetrical structure provides valuable insights into the late stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>, especially the processes involved in the shedding of outer layers by dying stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotlights-from-the-bright-star">Spotlights from the bright star</h2>



<p>ESA noted that hundreds of straight, brightly-lit lines pierce through the rings of gas and dust. “These ‘spotlights’ emanate from the bright star and stream through holes in the nebula like sunlight through gaps in a cloud."</p>



<p>“But not all of the starlight can escape. The density of the central region, set off in teal, is reflected by how transparent or opaque it is. Areas that are a deeper teal indicate that the gas and dust are denser - and light is unable to break free.”</p>



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



<p>According to ESA, this is not only a crisp image of a planetary nebula - it also shows us objects in the vast distances of space behind it. The transparent red sections of the nebula are filled with distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-have-hearts-and-lungs-that-help-them-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.</p>



<p>“Look for the bright angled line at the upper left. It is not starlight - it is a faraway galaxy seen edge-on. Distant spirals, of many shapes and colors, also dot the scene. Those that are farthest away - or very dusty - are small and red,” said ESA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-vela-nbsp">The constellation Vela&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. </p>



<p>In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).</p>



<p>Vela is notable for containing several interesting astronomical features. One of its most prominent stars is Gamma Velorum, also known as Suhail or Regor, which is a bright, massive star system consisting of multiple stars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. </p>



<p>This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star that formed during the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.</p>



<p>Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI</p>



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

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

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy NGC 2090, located approximately 40 million light-years away in the constellation Columba.</p>



<p>NGC 2090 is a stunning spiral galaxy that is notable for its well-defined structure, featuring a bright central core surrounded by tightly wound spiral arms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These arms are filled with young, hot stars and interstellar gas, indicating active star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Captured by the Webb Telescope’s MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the image reveals the galaxy's winding spiral arms and the swirling gas and dust of its disc in magnificent and unique detail, noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-ngc-2090">Observations of NGC 2090</h2>



<p>The galaxy’s spiral pattern is relatively symmetrical, making it a fascinating object of study for astronomers interested in galactic evolution and dynamics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observations of NGC 2090, including those conducted by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-helps-solve-the-mystery-of-a-young-eruptive-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope, have provided valuable insights into the properties of its stellar populations, gas content, and the nature of its spiral structure.</p>



<p>“NGC 2090 was one of many galaxies studied by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to refine the measurement of the Universe’s expansion rate, or ‘Hubble constant,’” said ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This can be done by observing a special type of variable stars named ‘Cepheids’ in relatively nearby galaxies.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-ngc-2090">New insights into NGC 2090</h2>



<p>A Cepheid-based measurement from 1998 indicated that NGC 2090 is 37 million light-years away from Earth. However, the latest measurements suggest that the galaxy is 40 million light-years away.</p>



<p>“Already before that Hubble project in 1998, NGC 2090 had been well studied as a very prominent nearby example of star formation,” noted ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Described as a ‘flocculent’ spiral, this galaxy has a patchy, dusty disc and arms that are flaky or not visible at all. We can see those patterns well in Hubble's visible-light images. However, Webb’s NIRCam near-infrared data reveal the spiral arms with remarkable clarity.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-spiral-galaxies">What are spiral galaxies?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are among the most common and visually striking types of galaxies in the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They are characterized by their flat, disk-like shape with a bright central bulge surrounded by sweeping spiral arms.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-arms-and-central-bulge-nbsp">Spiral arms and central bulge&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The arms of a spiral galaxy are regions where stars, gas, and dust are concentrated, often glowing brightly with the light of young, hot stars that form within them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The central bulge typically contains older stars and can host a supermassive black hole at its core.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Types of spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on how tightly their arms are wound and the size of their central bulge, ranging from tightly wound "Sa" galaxies to loosely wound "Sc" types.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-nbsp">Star formation&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The structure of spiral galaxies is maintained by the interplay of gravity and angular momentum, with a rotating disk of stars and gas giving rise to their iconic shape.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They are active sites of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> due to the abundance of gas in their arms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies often have a halo of older stars and globular clusters surrounding their disks, which provides clues about their formation and evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxy">Barred spiral galaxy</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, the galaxy that contains our Solar System, is a prime example of a barred spiral galaxy, a subtype where a bar-shaped structure of stars extends from the central bulge.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-columba-nbsp">The constellation Columba&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Columba is a small and relatively faint constellation in the southern sky, whose name means "dove" in Latin. It was introduced in the late 16th century by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius and first appeared in a celestial atlas by Johann Bayer in 1603.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-jupiter-discovered-in-the-great-bear-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constellation</a> is said to represent the dove sent out by Noah during the biblical flood, tying it to themes of hope and peace.</p>



<p>Columba lies near the larger constellation Canis Major and is bordered by others such as Lepus and Puppis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although it lacks particularly bright stars, its most notable star, Alpha Columbae (also called Phact), shines at a magnitude of approximately 2.6 and is a hot blue-white star. Beta Columbae, another prominent star in the constellation, is a slightly cooler, yellow-white star.</p>



<p>The constellation is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere during the summer months, though it can also be seen from lower latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope&nbsp;</p>



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Webb unveils spiral galaxy NGC 2090 in magnificent detail

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



<p>"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."</p>



<p>According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means that NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



<p>NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



<p>Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.</p>



<p>“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.</p>



<p>"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."</p>



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



<p>Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.</p>



<p>The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



<p>The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. </p>



<p>The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



<p>Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



<p>Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



<p>The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. </p>



<p>Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features a brilliant stellar nursery located about 163,000 light-years away.</p>



<p>According to ESA, the image is one of the most photogenic examples of the many stellar nurseries observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope during its 30-year lifetime. </p>



<p>“The portrait features the giant nebula NGC 2014 and its neighbor NGC 2020 which together form part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



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



<p>Stellar nurseries are regions in space where new stars are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">born</a> - often within vast clouds of gas and dust called molecular clouds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These areas are fascinating because they are cradles of stellar evolution, where gravity causes clumps of gas to collapse, eventually forming protostars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over time, the protostars will heat up and start the nuclear fusion process that powers a star.</p>



<p>One of the most well-known stellar nurseries is the Orion Nebula, which is visible to the naked eye and located about 1,350 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-a-stellar-nursery-nbsp">Dynamic nature of a stellar nursery&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Within these nurseries, the balance between gravity and pressure determines the types of stars that form, from massive, luminous stars to smaller, cooler ones like our Sun.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The environment is incredibly dynamic, with powerful winds from young stars shaping the clouds and triggering the birth of even more stars.</p>



<p>These regions are often illuminated by the light from massive newborn stars - creating stunning, colorful displays. The light reveals the intricate structure of the dust and gas, sculpted by the energy of young stars.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Stellar nurseries are essential for understanding the early stages of planetary formation, as protoplanetary disks (the material from which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets form</a>) are often found around young stars in these regions.</p>



<p>Stellar nurseries play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. They are responsible for the continuous birth of new stars that enrich the interstellar medium with heavier elements. This constant recycling of material is key to the development of future generations of stars and planets.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study of these regions helps astronomers understand the fundamental processes that govern the life cycles of stars and the overall dynamics of the universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-local-group">The Local Group</h2>



<p>The Local Group is a collection of over 80 galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Triangulum Galaxy, along with numerous smaller dwarf galaxies. These galaxies are bound together by gravity and span a region roughly 10 million light-years across.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-thin-disk-is-billions-of-years-older-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and Andromeda are the dominant members, with their respective satellite galaxies orbiting them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Local Group is part of a larger structure known as the Virgo Supercluster, and its galaxies are moving toward the gravitational center of the Local Group, contributing to its dynamic nature.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-magellanic-cloud">Large Magellanic Cloud</h2>



<p>The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fourth largest galaxy in the Local Group and can be seen with the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This irregular dwarf galaxy is home to the Tarantula Nebula, one of the most active star-forming regions in our cosmic neighborhood.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Large Magellanic Cloud played a key role in astronomical history, particularly when the supernova SN 1987A was observed, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The LMC's interaction with the Milky Way, along with its own companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud, is believed to influence its shape and star formation activity. Its proximity and unique properties make it a crucial object of study for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>, star formation, and the dynamics of interacting galaxies.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>: </strong>NASA, ESA, and STScI</p>



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Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a satellite view of the fires burning in Southern California.</p>



<p>“Five wildfires - the biggest of which are the Palisades and the Eaton fires - are still currently burning (as of January 10, 2025) in areas of north Los Angeles. At least 10 people are known to have lost their lives and many more properties have been burnt to the ground,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_struggles_to_contain_wildfires" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“This image, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-3 mission on January 9, 2025, shows the Palisades fire at lower left and the Eaton fire at upper right, with smoke seen reaching Catalina Island and the Santa Barbara reserve to the south of the fire.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The fires have now burned more than 37,000 acres - an area bigger than San Francisco - according to Cal Fire. More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tens-of-thousands-of-residents-displaced-by-fires">Tens of thousands of residents displaced by fires</h2>



<p>The Palisades Fire is the largest at more than 21,000 acres, while the Eaton Fire has burned more than 14,000 acres. Those blazes are 11 percent and 15 percent contained, respectively.</p>



<p>Evacuation orders have displaced over 150,000 residents, with an additional 166,000 on alert. Temporary shelters are operating at full capacity, and widespread power outages have affected nearly 1.6 million homes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-winds-and-a-lack-of-resources-nbsp">Strong winds and a lack of resources&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Firefighting efforts are being hampered by strong <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-more-toxic-than-other-sources-of-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winds</a>, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour, and a lack of resources. Some fire hydrants have run dry, complicating containment efforts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In response to the crisis, President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance, and additional firefighters from neighboring states are joining the efforts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The California National Guard has been deployed, and the Department of Defense is providing personnel and equipment. Despite these measures, the fires continue to pose a significant threat to the region.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-threats-from-the-palisades-fire-nbsp">New threats from the Palisades Fire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Palisades Fire, which began near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, has rapidly expanded, prompting new evacuation orders for areas including Tarzana and Encino in the San Fernando Valley.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The fire's swift progression has been exacerbated by strong winds, causing it to grow by "three football fields of land per minute." This rapid expansion has led to mandatory evacuations along sections of the Pacific Coast Highway and surrounding areas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that more than 10,000 houses and 13,000 buildings are under threat.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-fires">Unpredictable behavior of the fires</h2>



<p>In response to the advancing flames, evacuation orders were extended into Tarzana and Encino on January 10. Residents in these areas have been advised to evacuate promptly due to the fire's unpredictable behavior and the potential for further spread.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The situation remains critical, with firefighting efforts ongoing to contain the blaze and protect threatened communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Authorities continue to monitor the fire's progression and are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders for their safety.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-in-southern-california-nbsp">Wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dry-lightning-sparks-the-most-destructive-california-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildfires</a> in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flames</a> rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area’s diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, Southern California’s growing urban footprint increases the risk of fires igniting due to human activity, while also placing more people and infrastructure in harm’s way.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/californias-forests-are-losing-their-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">destructive</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-california-fires">Impacts of the California fires</h2>



<p>The Palisades and Eaton Fires are among the most destructive wildfires in California's history, both in terms of structures destroyed and economic impact. Fortunately, however, they have not surpassed the Camp Fire in terms of human fatalities.</p>



<p>The Camp Fire of 2018 remains the deadliest wildfire in the state of California, with 85 fatalities. </p>



<p>The financial impact of the current fires is unprecedented. Estimates suggest that the damages could reach between $135 billion and $150 billion, potentially making these wildfires the costliest in U.S. history.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Satellite captures devastating fires in Southern California

Elasmosaurus,,Group,Of,Long-necked,Plesiosaurs,From,The,Late,Cretaceous,Period,

<p>Scientists have pieced together evidence that ancient marine reptiles once swam in what is now central Colombia, and these creatures appear to have been more formidable predators than today’s mighty killer whales.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their presence at an unexpectedly high level in the food chain has raised new questions about how ocean ecosystems evolve.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Paleontologists reconstructed the lives of giant reptiles and invertebrates that flourished in a lush environment roughly 130 million years ago, and uncovered a glimpse of life that sits outside what is considered standard for our modern seas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-reptiles-ruled-over-killer-whales-nbsp">Marine reptiles ruled over killer whales&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Experts discovered that some of these reptiles could exceed 33 feet (10 meters) in length, hinting at a way of life that appears to have been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remarkably powerful</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to their research, these creatures ruled the seventh level in a reconstructed Cretaceous food web, while present-day killer whales and great white sharks rarely pass the sixth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>At the heart of these findings is work by McGill University’s <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/biology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Biology</a>, led by doctoral student Dirley Cortés and co-author Hans Larsson, who is a professor in the same department.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-reptiles-reached-the-pinnacle">Marine reptiles reached the pinnacle</h2>



<p>Large predators typically dominate the top ranks in any oceanic food chain. Scientists often call these ranks "<a href="https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Introductory_and_General_Biology/Introductory_Biology_(CK-12)/06%3A_Ecology/6.05%3A_Trophic_Levels" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic levels</a>." </p>



<p>Modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-sunken-oceans-discovered-between-earth-core-and-mantle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine</a> systems reach a natural limit around the sixth trophic (or feeding) level, where species like orcas hover at the pinnacle of the energy pyramid.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our study is the first to examine these possible ecological interactions,” said Cortés, who is lead author on the publication. </p>



<p>By <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/202/1/zlad092/7275647?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studying</a> fossil evidence in the <a href="https://www2.sgc.gov.co/LibroGeologiaColombia/tgc/sgcpubesp36201913.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paja Formation</a>, the team determined that Mesozoic reptiles had apparently gone one level higher. </p>



<p>These ancient animals likely feasted on anything in their path, which explains how their food web stacked up so high.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconstructing-a-lost-food-web">Reconstructing a lost food web</h2>



<p>This investigation on ancient marine reptiles used body size, possible feeding tools, and comparisons with existing marine species to build a detailed framework for who ate whom in that vanished Colombian sea, where the warm climates of the Early Cretaceous allowed a surge in ocean diversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Paja Formation’s fossil record reveals predators with robust jaws and swift movement, alongside an assortment of invertebrates that thrived in trophic levels beneath them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Researchers drew upon modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-disease-is-pushing-caribbean-reefs-toward-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caribbean reef</a> networks to cross-check their results. </p>



<p>By comparing these fossils to present-day communities, the study uncovered what one of the paper’s authors described as "intricate links among prehistoric animals" that pushed the boundaries of the marine hierarchy.</p>



<p>“Understanding this complexity helps us trace how ecosystems evolve over time,” said Cortés.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-competition-shaped-the-seas">How competition shaped the seas</h2>



<p>Marine food webs do not form overnight. Competition for resources tends to bring about new evolutionary strategies and unique feeding habits. </p>



<p>During parts of the Mesozoic, <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0501562102" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pressure</a> from marine predators and their potential prey made survival an ongoing challenge. </p>



<p>A known surge in shell-crushing snails and other predatory invertebrates during this era has been labeled by paleontologists as the <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/paleobiology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic Marine Revolution</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Ancient marine reptiles from the Paja Formation existed in this tense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/looking-to-earths-ancient-climate-to-predict-our-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> of changing prey, leading them to develop massive body sizes and formidable hunting styles.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These findings illuminate how marine ecosystems developed through intense trophic competition and shaped the diversity we see today,” said <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/202/1/zlad092/7275647?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Larsson</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-matters-today">Why this matters today</h2>



<p>The close study of creatures that roamed the ocean so long ago is not just about cataloging exciting fossils. Discoveries like this tell us that life’s history is packed with surprising adaptations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Paleontologists see a chance to compare these ancient networks with modern ones, thus providing fresh insights into how ecosystems recover from challenges such as climate change or habitat loss.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Researchers also note that these fossil communities remind us of how species at the top of the food chain can alter their entire environment, often making space for additional biodiversity.</p>



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



<p>One important lesson from this work is that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-climate-shift-sheds-light-on-future-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dramatic shifts</a> in ocean biodiversity occurred long before humans entered the picture. </p>



<p>Marine reptiles vanished near the end of the Mesozoic, but the legacy of their top-heavy food webs is imprinted in the fossil record. </p>



<p>Each puzzle piece from that record, from large jaws to specialized teeth, helps paint a more accurate picture of how Earth’s seas matured. </p>



<p>The high trophic levels in the Paja Formation suggest that new habitats were emerging, allowing marine reptiles to reach body sizes and predatory niches that are rarely matched in modern times.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-marine-reptiles-and-ecosystems">Ancient marine reptiles and ecosystems</h2>



<p>Researchers plan to keep building models for other fossil sites. This work may reveal whether seventh-level predators were uncommon or if there were other pockets in Earth’s history where they thrived. </p>



<p>In many regions, marine formations remain poorly understood, so there is every chance that the Paja Formation was not the only site containing marine reptiles with astonishing hunting powers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>More studies may show that, over millions of years, seas can produce predators more fearsome than anything we know today.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article-abstract/202/1/zlad092/7275647?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Top predators in prehistoric oceans would have eaten killer whales as snacks

Scientists have pieced together evidence that ancient marine reptiles once...

<p>Quasars have long served as celestial beacons, guiding humanity’s exploration of the universe. These incredibly luminous objects are powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of distant galaxies. </p>



<p>Surrounded by glowing discs of swirling gas, quasars emit immense light that can be seen across vast cosmic distances. </p>



<p>They also eject powerful jets of material, shaping their host galaxies and influencing the surrounding intergalactic environment, much like cosmic lighthouses illuminating the dark reaches of space.</p>



<p>The study of quasars has provided astronomers with crucial insights into the early universe, including the formation of galaxies and the behavior of matter under extreme gravitational forces.</p>



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



<p>In a breakthrough discovery in 2020, newborn jets were found in a number of quasars.</p>



<p>One particular quasar that captured the attention of scientists was Quasar J0742+2704. It is located in an unusual galaxy studied by aspiring naval officer Olivia Achenbach of the <a href="https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United States Naval Academy</a> during an intensive research internship.</p>



<p>Using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, Achenbach uncovered some surprising attributes of this quasar, including its rare spiral structure and the presence of young jets. These features shed light on the dynamic processes at play within its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">host galaxy</a>.</p>



<p>“The biggest surprise was seeing the distinct spiral shape in the Hubble Space Telescope images. At first, I was worried I had made an error," said Achenbach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-and-exciting-discovery">Rare and exciting discovery </h2>



<p>Kristina Nyland is a renowned astronomer at the Naval Research Laboratory who served as Achenbach's advisor.</p>



<p>“We typically see quasars as older galaxies that have grown very massive, along with their central <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-massive-early-universe-black-hole-stuns-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, after going through messy mergers and have come out with an elliptical shape,” explained Nyland.</p>



<p>"It's extremely rare and exciting to find a quasar-hosting galaxy with spiral arms and a black hole that is more than 400 million times the mass of the Sun - which is pretty big - plus young jets that weren't detectable 20 years ago."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quasar-jets-and-galaxy-evolution">Quasar jets and galaxy evolution</h2>



<p>Quasar jets have captivated researchers with their complexity and far-reaching implications. However, the triggers of quasar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-jets-are-like-million-light-year-long-jedi-lightsabers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jets</a> have long been debated within the astronomy community.</p>



<p>These jets, which can stretch for thousands of light-years, play a crucial role in the evolution of galaxies as they can curtail star formation by expelling the gas and dust necessary for star creation.</p>



<p>Some theories suggest that major galaxy mergers - where two or more galaxies collide and their central black holes merge - lead to the inception of quasar jets, driven by the gravitational chaos of such interactions.</p>



<p>However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seismic-ripples-observed-in-the-oldest-known-spiral-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiral galaxy</a> quasars like J0742+2704 retain their organized structure. This indicates that other causes, such as gravitational interactions with nearby galaxies or internal instabilities, might also be responsible for triggering these extraordinary phenomena.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-a-unique-quasar">Secrets of a unique quasar </h2>



<p>Although Quasar J0742+2704 has retained its spiral shape, intriguing signs of its potential interaction with other galaxies are evident. </p>



<p>“Clearly there is something interesting going on. While the quasar has not experienced a major disruptive merger, it may be interacting with another galaxy, which is gravitationally tugging at its spiral arm," explained Nyland.</p>



<p>One nearby galaxy displayed a unique ring structure, which is thought to occur after a smaller galaxy breaches the center of a spiral galaxy. The unusual shape could provide a clue to the events unfolding in this system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-of-exploration-continues">The journey of exploration continues</h2>



<p>According to Achenbach and Nyland, this captivating discovery signifies a fresh juncture.</p>



<p>Additional multi-wavelength analysis of J0742+2704 will be conducted soon, using data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile.</p>



<p>Achenbach encourages us all to keep exploring. "If we looked at this galaxy 20 years, or maybe even a decade ago, we would have seen a fairly average quasar and never known it would eventually be home to newborn jets," said Achenbach. </p>



<p>"It goes to show that if you keep searching, you can find something remarkable that you never expected, and it can send you in a whole new direction of discovery."</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, Kristina Nyland (U.S. Naval Research Laboratory); Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI)</p>



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Spiral galaxy with quasar jet surprises astronomers

Quasars have long served as celestial beacons, guiding humanity’s exploration...

<p>A cutting-edge satellite no larger than a five-liter water bottle, HYPSO-2, is moving around Earth at an astonishing speed of 7.5 kilometers per second.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This innovative satellite, equipped with two advanced cameras, is providing researchers with unparalleled data on ocean phenomena, particularly algae blooms. These blooms can wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems, poison drinking water, and cause mass fish deaths.</p>



<p>“The new satellite means about a 10-fold increase in the capacity to monitor water quality, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-caused-toxic-algae-blooms-since-the-bronze-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">algae blooms</a>, and other important ocean phenomena,” said Bjørn Egil Asbjørnslett, professor and director of <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a> (NTNU)’s Ocean and Coast strategic research area.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, the satellite reduces the need for emissions-heavy research vessels, offering a more sustainable approach to marine monitoring.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-imaging-in-a-small-satellite">Advanced imaging in a small satellite</h2>



<p>One of HYPSO-2’s cameras is hyperspectral, capable of detecting 120 shades of visible light - far beyond the red, green, and blue seen by human eyes or standard cameras. This technology enables the satellite to capture detailed images spanning up to 25,000 square kilometers of Earth’s surface in a single shot.</p>



<p>Geir Johnsen, professor at NTNU’s Department of Biology, highlighted the practical advantages of this amazing feature.</p>



<p>“The fact that we can now determine exactly where they can make observations is completely new, and worth their weight in gold,” said Johnsen.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Since the satellites can pass over the same fjord up to three times in the same day, we can plan our surveys much more thoroughly. If we are in the Arctic, for example, we have information about whether there is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-what-record-lows-tell-us-about-the-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> in the fjord or not.”</p>



<p>Johnsen has also been involved in NTNU AMOS’s observation pyramid, an initiative integrating data from satellites, drones, and unmanned vessels to provide a comprehensive environmental overview.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-satellites-monitoring-ocean-conditions">Small satellites monitoring ocean conditions</h2>



<p>HYPSO-2 delivers sharper images than its predecessor, HYPSO-1, launched in January 2022. Together, the two satellites allow researchers to gather up to 10 times more data than before.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Better quality of the images also means that we can discover several new things of interest, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-at-risk-global-warming-threatens-the-oceans-lifeline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a> algae, organic material, and turbid water from river runoff,” Johnsen explained.</p>



<p>These satellites have been instrumental in monitoring sea ice conditions, providing critical insights for planning Arctic operations, including determining suitable vehicles and vessels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-launch-and-seamless-operation">Successful launch and seamless operation</h2>



<p>On August 16, 2024, HYPSO-2 was launched into space alongside over 100 other small satellites aboard Elon Musk’s Falcon 9 rocket. Researchers at NTNU were thrilled when they established contact with the satellite less than half an hour after deployment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We got a great hyperspectral image already in the test. And the quality of the images continues to be great,” said operations manager and PhD student Simen Berg.</p>



<p>Currently orbiting Earth at an altitude of approximately 580 kilometers, HYPSO-2 passes over the North Pole 14 times a day, transmitting high-quality data to NTNU’s ground crew. The team monitors its telemetry regularly, ensuring the satellite's health and performance remain optimal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-instruments-of-hypso-3">Advanced instruments of HYPSO-3</h2>



<p>Following the success of HYPSO-1 and HYPSO-2, NTNU researchers are already working on HYPSO-3, which will feature advanced instruments, a more powerful computer, and additional cameras.&nbsp;</p>



<p>HYPSO-3 is expected to provide even more detailed observations, focusing on lakes, rivers, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waterways</a>. A prototype for its instruments could be ready by spring 2025, though its launch timeline depends on funding.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-for-norway-s-space-industry">New era for Norway’s space industry</h2>



<p>Norway has ambitious plans for small satellite technology, and NTNU is playing a pivotal role in advancing the nation’s position in the burgeoning space industry.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to satellite expert Roger Birkeland, Norwegian companies have traditionally served as subcontractors for large international projects, but there is a growing trend toward independent initiatives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We at NTNU are trying to figure out how we fit in with these players,” he said. “The most obvious thing is that our students can go into jobs in this industry. But we are also trying to find out how we can collaborate more with the industry on research that drives technology forward.”</p>



<p>Through the HYPSO series of satellites, NTNU is not only contributing to vital environmental research but also fostering innovation and collaboration that may shape the future of the global space industry.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Small satellites are monitoring ocean conditions from space

A cutting-edge satellite no larger than a five-liter water bottle,...

<p></p>
<div id="58e3ebce955a315103d39bd1" class="vdb_player vdb_58e3ebce955a315103d39bd158d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49" vdb_params="m.embeded=cms_video_plugin_www.earth.com"  data-placeholder="//img.vidible.tv/prod/2017-12/21/5a3c038692fdde288d33e529/5a3c0391ab5970628bbcadfb_o_A_v2.jpg?w=1440&#038;h=900">
    <script async type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=58e3ebce955a315103d39bd1/vid=5a3c038692fdde288d33e529/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js?m.embeded=cms_video_plugin_www.earth.com"></script>
</div>
<p><br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today’s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> comes from the </span><a href="https://www.acs.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">American Chemical Society’s</span></a> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reactions</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> series and features a look at how acids can cause exciting chemical reactions.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Acids are a substance that give off hydrogen ions known as protons, which are extremely reactive. When a loose proton encounters certain other molecules, electron chaos creates entirely new substances. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One classic example would be when an acid comes into contact with a metal and creates hydrogen gas and salt.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rory Arnold</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: </span></i><a href="https://www.acs.org/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">American Chemical Society</span></i></a></p>

How acids create dramatic chemical reactions