Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of retreating glaciers in Alaska, where meltwater is rapidly expanding glacial lakes. 



“In parts of Alaska, water is replacing ice. As glaciers thin and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-images-reveal-hidden-retreat-of-arctic-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retreat</a>, meltwater collects at their fronts, forming proglacial lakes. According to an analysis by Mauri Pelto, a glaciologist at Nichols College, three such lakes in the southeastern part of the state have grown rapidly in recent decades,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-glaciers-in-alaska">Retreating glaciers in Alaska</h2>



“A trio of glaciers - Yakutat, Alsek, and Grand Plateau - descend from inland mountains and flow onto the coastal plain southeast of Yakutat borough, ending at Harlequin Lake, Alsek Lake, and Grand Plateau Lake,” noted NASA.&nbsp;



The retreat of the glaciers, as well as the growth of the lakes, are visible in the image. When compared to an <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/153000/153638/fastestlake_tm5_19840705_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a> captured by Landsat 5 in the summer of 1984, the changes are even more evident.



NASA elaborated on the extent of the glacier retreat from 1984 to 2024. “During this period, Yakutat Glacier’s main arm retreated 4.3 miles, while Alsek Glacier’s northern and southern arms retreated 3.3 miles and 3.4 miles, respectively. Grand Plateau Glacier’s northern arm lost the most, retreating 4.8 miles.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes-doubled-in-size-nbsp">Glacial lakes doubled in size&nbsp;</h2>



“Collectively, the three lakes more than doubled in size over 40 years. In 1984, they covered about 50 square miles. By 2024, they spanned 90 square miles. That’s an area larger than Seneca Lake (67 square miles) - one of the Finger Lakes in New York, which also have a glacial origin,” said NASA.



Pelto noted that the lakes forming in this region are immense - starting at the mountains and spreading toward the coast - making this a new lake district that is unique in our nation.



“Millions of other lakes, named and unnamed, dot the state. But this system has grown fast, so much so that Pelto thinks it might represent the fastest lake growth in the United States this century,” said NASA.



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



Glacier retreat is a significant phenomenon driven primarily by global warming the results from rising greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>.&nbsp;



As temperatures rise, glaciers lose more ice during the summer melt than they can regain in winter snowfall, causing them to shrink over time. This process has profound implications for ecosystems, water resources, and global sea levels.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes">Glacial lakes</h3>



When glaciers retreat, they often leave behind depressions in the landscape that can fill with meltwater, forming glacial lakes. These lakes are typically bounded by natural dams made of rock, ice, or moraine - accumulations of debris left behind by the glacier's movement.&nbsp;



Over the past century, the number and size of glacial lakes worldwide have increased significantly due to the accelerating pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-glaciers-offer-a-glimpse-of-our-harsh-climate-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> retreat. This trend is especially evident in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Alps, as well as in polar areas such as Alaska and Greenland.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-and-negative-impacts-nbsp">Positive and negative impacts&nbsp;</h3>



Glacial lakes can have both positive and negative impacts. They provide critical water sources for downstream communities, support biodiversity, and sometimes offer opportunities for hydropower development or tourism.&nbsp;



However, they also pose serious risks. The dams holding back these lakes can fail suddenly, causing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). These catastrophic events can devastate downstream areas, destroying infrastructure, agricultural lands, and habitats while endangering human lives.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes">Monitoring changes</h3>



Understanding glacier retreat and glacial lake formation requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining climate science, hydrology, and geology.&nbsp;



Monitoring these changes is essential to mitigate associated risks and adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fperu-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming planet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-retreat-worldwide">Glacier retreat worldwide</h2>



Studies and satellite observations show that most glaciers in almost all regions of the world are shrinking.&nbsp;



Melting glaciers contribute significantly to global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>, which threatens coastal communities and ecosystems.



The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change.&nbsp;Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.



The image was captured on August 4, 2024 by the Landsat 8 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Costa Atlántica Reserve stretching along the Atlantic coast in Argentina.



“At the far southern reaches of South America, a stretch of tidal flats, shoals, and beaches serves as a refuge for migratory shorebirds and copious aquatic life,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The Costa Atlántica Reserve in Argentina extends for 220 kilometers (140 miles) along the eastern shore of Tierra del Fuego. The area was designated a Ramsar site in 1995 and a provincial nature reserve in 1998." 



According to NASA, the reserve is the southernmost site both on the Ramsar list and in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-costa-atlantica-reserve">Significance of the Costa Atlántica Reserve</h2>



The Costa Atlántica Reserve is an important conservation site that signifies Argentina's commitment to preserving its rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal biodiversity</a>.&nbsp;



This vast expanse of protected area serves as a sanctuary for many species, ranging from migratory birds to marine mammals and diverse plant life.



“Tidal habitats along the coast support some 135 species of birds, while crustaceans, mollusks, fish, and cetaceans feed in the productive coastal waters,” said NASA.&nbsp;



“The topography inland of Costa Atlántica, stretching into Chile to the west, is blanketed in shrubs and grassland vegetation adapted to dry conditions - part of a semiarid ecosystem known as the Fuegian steppe.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-ecological-balance-nbsp">Maintaining ecological balance&nbsp;</h2>



Established to safeguard the delicate ecosystems of dunes, estuaries, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-lagoons-have-high-loads-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal lagoons</a>, the reserve plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.&nbsp;



The Costa Atlántica Reserve provides critical habitats for numerous threatened species, including the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-right-whales-have-shifted-their-foraging-grounds/">Southern Right Whale</a>, which finds refuge in these waters during its breeding season. 



The reserve’s sheltered bays and nutrient-rich waters create an ideal environment for mothers to nurse their calves before embarking on long migrations. 



In addition to whales, the reserve supports populations of sea lions and Magellanic penguins. Its protection is vital for the long-term survival of these species in the face of climate change and human activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-costa-atlantica-reserve-a-living-laboratory-nbsp">Costa Atlántica Reserve: A living laboratory&nbsp;</h2>



The Costa Atlántica Reserve is not only a refuge for wildlife but also a living laboratory for scientific research. 



Conservationists and researchers work within its bounds to monitor ecosystems, study species behaviors, and develop strategies for sustainable management. 



This ongoing research is pivotal in understanding the impacts of climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-river-deltas-face-major-threats-beyond-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal environments</a> and in devising measures to mitigate these effects.



Furthermore, the reserve illustrates the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. Local communities are engaged in sustainable tourism and educational programs.&nbsp;



Through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-bird-photographers-improve-nesting-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-tourism</a> initiatives, visitors can experience the natural beauty of the reserve while contributing to its preservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tierra-del-fuego-archipelago">Tierra del Fuego archipelago</h2>



According to NASA, the broader landscape of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago was shaped by glaciers.&nbsp;



“Ice advanced over the mountains and lowlands during cold climatic periods between the mid-Pleistocene, about 1 million years ago, and the Last Glacial Maximum, about 20,000 years ago. San Sebastián Bay formed in a tectonic depression that was deepened by glacial erosion," noted NASA.&nbsp;



“Further evidence of glaciation, including hummocky moraines and fields of glacial erratics, appears around the bay, though it is too small to be visible in this image.”



“Partially enclosed by a long, sandy peninsula, San Sebastián Bay attracts copious migratory birds, some of which shuttle seasonally between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.”



“Large populations of the Hudsonian godwit, white-rumped sandpiper, and other long-distance flyers congregate in the vast intertidal zones. This part of the reserve, however, is vulnerable to the impact of oil and gas extraction from onshore and offshore deposits.”



The image was captured on February 20, 2024 by the <a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/landsat-9-instruments/oli-2-design/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OLI-2</a> (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Costa Atlántica Reserve in Argentina

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an explosive eruption of Mount Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. The photo was captured on February 13 by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on the Landsat 8 satellite.



<a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153962/river-of-fire-on-mount-etna" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> noted that the natural-color scene is overlaid with an infrared signal to distinguish the lava’s heat signature on the mountain's snowy slopes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-unrest">Signs of unrest</h2>



“On February 8, 2025, Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that Mount Etna had begun exhibiting ‘signs of unrest above its background level,’”&nbsp;said NASA.



“That’s unsurprising for the frequently unruly Sicilian peak, one of the most active stratovolcanoes in the world. But the fiery explosions, disruptive ash clouds, and long lava flows that ensued stood out as being unusually spectacular to many Etna watchers.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensifying-eruptions-on-mount-etna">Intensifying eruptions on Mount Etna </h2>



The activity intensified on February 10th, with lava flowing from the Bocca Nuova crater at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters above sea level.&nbsp;



According to news reports, the eruption created a striking visual as molten lava traversed the snow-covered slopes, producing rivers of lava up to 3 kilometers long and emitting ash plumes visible from several kilometers away.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> attracted thousands of tourists eager to witness the spectacle. However, the influx of visitors led to traffic congestion, obstructing emergency services and prompting warnings from local authorities about the potential dangers of approaching the active volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-mount-etna-eruptions">Impacts of Mount Etna eruptions </h2>



Despite the dramatic displays, there were no reports of injuries or significant property damage, though experts continue to closely monitor the situation.



Satellite imagery has provided detailed views of the active lava flow cutting through the snow-covered slopes, with ash plumes dispersing from the summit.



“The presence of ash prompted authorities to raise the aviation color code to orange on February 13. On other days during this eruption, it was elevated to red, the highest level of concern. The airport in nearby Catania diverted flights amid hazardous conditions, according to news reports,” said NASA.



“Since Etna stirred to life this time around, crowds of hikers and even some skiers flocked to its slopes to witness the fiery displays and lava flows melting through snow. The eruption was ongoing as of February 18, with weak ash emissions and decreasing explosive activity.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-volcano-with-a-long-history">A volcano with a long history </h2>



Mount Etna has a history stretching back hundreds of thousands of years. Located on the east coast of Sicily, near Catania, the volcano has shaped the landscape and influenced human civilization.



The volcano’s activity dates back at least 500,000 years, with its earliest eruptions occurring beneath the sea before the landmass emerged. Over time, lava flows, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a>, and collapses have sculpted the towering stratovolcano seen today.



Ancient civilizations were well aware of Etna’s power. Greek mythology depicted it as the forge of Hephaestus, the god of fire, while the poet Pindar described its violent eruptions. The philosopher Empedocles was even said to have perished in its fiery depths.&nbsp;



Etna’s eruptions were documented throughout Roman history, including a major event in 122 BC that devastated Catania.



During the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, Etna continued its eruptions, frequently altering its landscape and affecting nearby settlements.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-the-activity-of-mount-etna">Monitoring the activity of Mount Etna </h2>



One of the most devastating eruptions occurred in 1669, when lava flows destroyed several villages and overwhelmed parts of Catania’s city walls. Despite these dangers, people continued to live and farm on Etna’s fertile slopes, taking advantage of its rich volcanic soil.



Scientific study of Mount Etna began in the 19th and 20th centuries, as researchers sought to understand its behavior and mitigate its risks. Advances in monitoring technology have since helped track its activity, though eruptions remain unpredictable.&nbsp;



In modern times, Etna continues to be one of the most closely watched <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> in the world, with frequent eruptions, ash clouds, and lava flows affecting air travel and local communities.



Mount Etna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 due to its geological significance and cultural history.&nbsp;



Today, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-next-big-volcano-eruption-will-cause-global-chaos-climate-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> attracts tourists, scientists, and locals alike, serving as both a reminder of nature’s power and a source of economic and scientific interest.



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Fiery eruption of Mount Etna captured from space

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-webb-nbsp-nbsp">The power of Webb&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



The same cluster was featured as the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;



According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. 



"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc-1333">Webb’s view of NGC 1333</h2>



ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC 1333 cloud. 



“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."



The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-sun">Formation of the Sun</h2>



“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.



Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.



Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.



Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. 



These disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation.&nbsp;



These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ngc-1333">Significance of NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy, still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;



In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;



It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;



These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.



The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features smoke streaming from Tasmania, where bushfires were ignited by dry lightning strikes earlier this month.&nbsp;



By February 5, more than a dozen fires were burning in the state's remote central and western regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bushfires-fueled-by-challenging-conditions">Bushfires fueled by challenging conditions </h2>



Communities such as Zeehan, Corinna, and Pieman Heads have been threatened, leading to evacuations and significant disruptions during the peak tourism season.



“In early February 2025, bushfires ignited in northwestern Tasmania, where they have continued to burn on the island for more than a week amid windy, warm, and dry conditions,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153933/smoke-billows-from-bushfires-in-tasmania" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“Smoke from the fires is visible in this image, acquired at about 4 p.m. local time on February 12, 2025, by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) instrument on NASA’s Aqua satellite.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-tasmania-bushfires">Impacts of the Tasmania bushfires</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-the-recovery-of-the-ozone-layer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires</a> have burned over 90,000 hectares, with a combined perimeter exceeding 1,200 kilometers.



The fires are expected to continue burning for several more weeks. Due to the region's remote and challenging terrain, authorities report that significant effort is still needed to gain control over the blazes.



“According to a heatwave warning from Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), much of the state’s west coast saw severe heatwave conditions on several days during the week of February 10,” noted NASA.



“The region has also been exceptionally dry. For example, the past 12-month period has been the driest on record (since 1900) along the coastal areas near Sandy Cape.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-and-heritage-sites">Cultural and heritage sites</h2>



One significant area under threat is the takayna/Tarkine region in northwest Tasmania. This region is home to a grove of ancient Huon pine trees, including one estimated to be between 2,500 and 3,000 years old, making it the oldest known Huon pine.&nbsp;



The Yellowband Plain fire has burned perilously close to this grove, coming within meters of these irreplaceable trees.



Firefighters from Tasmania, interstate, and New Zealand are collaborating to control the blazes and help protect the Huon pine trees, as well as Indigenous heritage sites. 



Efforts to assess and mitigate the damage have been hampered by challenging weather conditions, including low cloud cover that restricts aerial surveys. Strong winds of up to 50 miles per hour have also complicated efforts to contain the bushfires.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-is-intensifying-bushfires-nbsp">Climate change is intensifying bushfires&nbsp;</h2>



Climate change and bushfires are deeply interconnected, with rising global temperatures intensifying the frequency and severity of wildfires in many regions.&nbsp;



Warmer temperatures lead to drier conditions, reducing moisture in vegetation and making it more susceptible to ignition. Prolonged droughts - which are becoming more common due to climate change - further dry out forests and grasslands, creating an abundance of flammable material.



Extreme heat waves increase the likelihood of fires starting and spreading rapidly. Higher temperatures also contribute to stronger winds, which can fan flames and carry embers over long distances, igniting new fires. 



Additionally, shifting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrafine-particles-in-wildfire-smoke-change-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> are altering fire seasons, making them longer and more unpredictable. Some areas that previously had clear fire seasons are now experiencing fires year-round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-behavior-of-wildfires-nbsp">Shifting behavior of wildfires&nbsp;</h2>



Climate change is also affecting the way bushfires behave. Many recent wildfires have been more intense, burning hotter and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-wildfires-are-gaining-even-more-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spreading faster</a> than historical fires. This makes them harder to control and increases their impact on communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. 



The destruction of forests not only contributes to immediate carbon emissions but also reduces the planet’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide, creating a feedback loop that worsens climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-increased-fire-activity">Consequences of increased fire activity</h2>



Beyond the direct effects on landscapes and air quality, increased bushfire activity has severe consequences for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human health</a>, economies, and biodiversity. 



Smoke from large wildfires contains fine particles that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, even for people far from the fire zones.&nbsp;



Wildlife struggles to escape or recover from habitat destruction, sometimes pushing species closer to extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-the-risks">Mitigating the risks</h2>



Efforts to mitigate these risks include better fire management strategies, improved early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bushfires-are-detected-500-times-faster-with-ai-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warning systems</a>, and sustainable land-use practices. 



However, long-term solutions require addressing the root cause - reducing greenhouse gas emissions to slow down global warming.&nbsp;



Without significant action, climate change will continue to fuel more extreme and destructive bushfires, with devastating consequences for both nature and society.



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Tasmania bushfires: A growing crisis in an era of climate change

In a world where gender roles are continually shifting, a fresh study illuminates the unexpected benefits of extended paternity leave.



According to the research, an extended break for dads after the arrival of a new baby can enhance their co-parenting dynamics with mothers in a rather significant manner. However, the effects of longer paternity leave aren't just limited to the fathers.



The study was led by Reed Donithen and Professor Sarah Schoppe-Sullivan at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-paternity-leave-and-co-parenting">Extended paternity leave and co-parenting</h2>



Mothers have been reported to interfere less with the father's involvement in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/child-care-quality-has-direct-impact-on-later-success-in-science-and-math/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childcare</a> when the fathers take an extended break from work after the birth of their child.



"When fathers take longer leaves, mothers might take that as a sign that fathers are more interested in being an active parent and be less likely to try to prevent them from participating in childcare," said Donithen, the lead author of the study.



In addition, longer leave for fathers is linked to mothers changing their attitudes about fathers and child care, noted Professor Schoppe-Sullivan.



When dads take more time off after the birth of their baby, moms relax unrealistically high standards for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fathers-give-children-an-educational-advantage-by-playing-with-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">father's parenting</a> and are less reliant on others’ evaluations about their fulfillment of the maternal role.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-parental-roles">Redefining parental roles </h2>



Remarkably, a more extended paternity leave not only modifies mothers' reaction to fathers' involvement in childcare but also their perception of parental roles. 



"It is difficult to change people’s attitudes. But a longer paternity leave appears to change not only how mothers respond to fathers’ involvement in child care but how they view <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parent-children-relationships-are-key-to-lifelong-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parental roles</a>," said Professor Schoppe-Sullivan. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-how-new-parents-adjust">Studying how new parents adjust </h2>



The researchers based their findings on data from the New Parents Project, a long-term study led by Professor Schoppe-Sullivan.



The project investigates how dual-earner couples adjust to becoming parents and how families and children evolve over time. 



The study involved 182 couples who were predominantly married and white. The participants were assessed four times: once during the mother's third trimester of pregnancy, and then when the baby was 3, 6, and 9 months old.



When the baby was nine months old, both parents were questioned about their behaviors and attitudes regarding "maternal gatekeeping."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-dynamics-with-paternal-leave">Shifting dynamics with paternal leave</h2>



The term "maternal gatekeeping" describes the extent to which a mother either inhibits or encourages a father's involvement in childcare.



Here, "gateopening behaviors" include encouraging the father's engagement in parenting, for example, by seeking his opinion on childcare behaviors. 



Conversely, "gateclosing behaviors" include instances when moms discourage dads, such as through criticism.



Interestingly, when fathers took longer leaves, both parents agreed that mothers were less likely to employ gateclosing behaviors. 



However, the researchers noticed that it didn't necessarily lead to increased gateopening by the moms, which was unexpected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-societal-expectations-of-moms">Societal expectations of moms</h2>



Donithen noted that this reluctance could possibly be attributed to the societal perception that mothers should predominantly handle childcare.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moms-are-more-worried-about-chores-and-its-a-heavy-mental-load/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mothers</a> may think they are the default main parent and so they don't go out of their way to encourage dads to get more involved," noted Donithen.



However, Professor Schoppe-Sullivan suggests a more optimistic interpretation - mothers observing fathers take longer paternity leaves and assume a more active parenting role might not feel the need to push for further involvement.



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



In essence, the study signifies that longer paternity leave could trigger a series of changes to reduce the load new mothers usually carry in childcare. 



Professor Schoppe-Sullivan believes this could be a pathway towards establishing more balanced parental roles.



"This study suggests that a longer paternity leave may be a way out of the trap, that it may lead to a situation where fathers do have more of an equal role in parenting," she explained.



In conclusion, the benefits of extended paternity leave extend beyond the fathers. As we progressively move towards a society keen on gender equality, we may need to pay more attention to strategies that encourage balanced co-parenting.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11199-025-01565-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sex Roles</a>.



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How paternity leave changes parenting dynamics

In a world where gender roles are continually shifting, a...

Imagine navigating the intricate pathways of your mind, deciphering the signals that shape your decisions. Whether it's choosing where to eat or making a life-changing move, your brain is constantly balancing risk and reward.



The complex puzzle of how the brain navigates these choices continues to inspire extensive research and remarkable discoveries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-reward-based-decisions">Navigating reward-based decisions </h2>



Recently, a team of researchers from <a href="https://hms.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard Medical School</a> made a compelling discovery. The study connected machine-learning concepts to mouse experiments to explore deeper into the brain circuitry that governs reward-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/navigating-uncertainty-how-to-make-transformative-life-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decisions</a>.



The experts identified two distinct groups of neurons in the brains of mice. One group aids in learning about outcomes that are above-average, while another associates with below-average results.



Together, these neurons grant the brain the capacity to assess the entire spectrum of potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-identify-rewards-and-punishments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rewards</a> linked with a decision.



Jan Drugowitsch is the co-senior author of the study and an associate professor of neurobiology at the Blavatnik Institute at Harvard Medical School.



"Our results suggest that mice - and by extension, other mammals - seem to be representing more fine-grained details about risk and reward than we thought before," explained Professor Drugowitsch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-risk-and-reward">A new approach to risk and reward</h2>



Neuroscience has long explored how past experiences influence future decisions. Yet, as Professor Drugowitsch pointed out, traditional theories often fall short in capturing the intricate patterns and subtle complexities of real-world behavior.



For instance, choosing between familiar good food at a known restaurant or testing a new place with a mix of good and not-so-good dishes is a choice that goes beyond mere averages. Existing theories fail to account for such risk-seeking or safe-playing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/science-behind-predicting-and-changing-human-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a>.



A new theory of decision-making borne out of machine learning research has begun to address these gaps. The new algorithm learns from the entire distribution of outcomes rather than just focusing on averages.



This approach significantly enhances performance, as observed in Atari video games and several other tasks involving multiple potential outcomes for each decision.



"They basically asked what happens if rather than just learning average rewards for certain actions, the algorithm learns the whole distribution, and they found it improved performance significantly," explained Professor Drugowitsch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decisions-and-potential-rewards">Decisions and potential rewards</h2>



In the latest study, Drugowitsch collaborated with Naoshige Uchida, a professor of molecular and cellular biology at Harvard University. The goal was to gain a better understanding of how the potential risks and rewards of a decision are weighed in the brain.



The experts devised experiments with mice to unravel how the decision-making process unfolds within the ventral striatum - a region of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-human-brain-decides-which-memories-to-remember/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> that stores data about potential rewards linked with a decision.



"We used high-density probes (neuropixels) to record striatal activity from mice performing a classical conditioning task in which reward mean, reward variance and stimulus identity were independently manipulated," explained the researchers.



The team trained mice to associate different odors with varying extents of rewards, effectively teaching mice about the range of potential outcomes for each decision.



The researchers then observed the mice's licking behavior (an indication of their anticipation for better rewards) alongside recordings of neural activity in the ventral striatum. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-neurons-that-make-decisions">The neurons that make decisions </h2>



The results were remarkable. The experts identified two distinct groups of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-complete-map-of-every-neuron-in-the-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurons</a> that were guiding decisions made by the mice.



When the researchers silenced "optimistic" neurons, mice acted as if they anticipated lesser rewards. Conversely, when "pessimistic" neurons were silenced, the mice behaved as if they expected a more valuable treat.



Professor Drugowitsch compared this to "having an optimist and a pessimist in your brain, both giving you advice on what to do next."



Continuing the exploration of these intriguing findings will provide insights into how the brain makes decisions in situations of greater uncertainty.



"These two groups of brain cells work together to form a representation of the full distribution of potential rewards for a decision," explained Drugowitsch.



He believes that these insights could help us understand why people with conditions like depression or addiction struggle with assessing risks in decisions.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08488-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Our decisions are shaped by optimistic and pessimistic neurons

Imagine navigating the intricate pathways of your mind, deciphering the...

A recent study has unveiled how chemical elements and powerful winds shape the atmosphere of a planet far beyond our solar system.&nbsp;



By examining separate layers of the planet’s atmosphere in 3D, the researchers have revealed an intricate system of jet streams and temperature contrasts.



The discovery was made by astronomers at the <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Southern Observatory</a> (ESO) in Chile and other institutions, who combined multiple telescope units to obtain a detailed view.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-conditions-on-a-distant-world">Weather conditions on a distant world</h2>



The research focused on WASP-121b (also called Tylos), a so-called “ultra-hot Jupiter” about 900 light-years away in the constellation Puppis. The results offer an unprecedented glimpse into the weather conditions of a distant world.&nbsp;



“This planet’s atmosphere behaves in ways that challenge our understanding of how <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08664-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> works - not just on Earth, but on all planets. It feels like something out of science fiction,” said Julia Victoria Seidel, a researcher at the European Southern Observatory (<a href="https://www.eso.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>) in Chile and lead author of the study.



WASP-121b completes an orbit around its host star in roughly 30 hours, hugging it so closely that one side is perpetually scorched while the opposite side remains significantly cooler. 



This extreme temperature difference results in what scientists describe as a violent and highly unusual climate.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-layers-of-the-exoplanet-s-atmosphere-nbsp">Distinct layers of the exoplanet’s atmosphere&nbsp;</h2>



The research team used high-resolution observations of starlight passing through the exoplanet’s atmosphere to deduce how distinct layers move and mix.



“What we found was surprising: a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-turbulent-atmosphere-includes-a-high-speed-jet-stream/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jet stream</a> rotates material around the planet’s equator, while a separate flow at lower levels of the atmosphere moves gas from the hot side to the cooler side. This kind of climate has never been seen before on any planet,” Seidel explained.&nbsp;



By tracing iron and other gases at different heights, the scientists identified powerful winds racing across Tylos’s skies. “Even the strongest hurricanes in the Solar System seem calm in comparison,” she added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-the-planet-in-3d">Viewing the planet in 3D</h2>



To map out these winds and their distribution of elements, the astronomers made use of the Very Large Telescope (VLT), merging the light from four of its units into a single signal via a specialized instrument.&nbsp;



The goal was to capture enough detail to distinguish chemical signatures at various altitudes - all within a single transit of WASP-121b in front of its host star.



“The VLT enabled us to probe three different layers of the exoplanet’s atmosphere in one fell swoop,” said study co-author Leonardo A. dos Santos, an assistant astronomer at the <a href="https://www.stsci.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Telescope Science Institute</a> in Baltimore, United States.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/exoplanet-Tylos_atmospheric-structure_3d-view_illustration_ESO_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/exoplanet-Tylos_atmospheric-structure_3d-view_illustration_ESO_1s.webp" alt="This diagram shows the structure and motion of the atmosphere of the exoplanet Tylos (WASP-121b). The exoplanet is shown from above in this figure, looking at one of its poles. The planet rotates counter-clockwise, in such a way that it always shows the same side to its parent star, so it's always day on one half of the planet and night on the other. The transition between night and day is the &quot;morning side&quot; while the &quot;evening side&quot; represents the transition between day and night; its morning side is to the right and its evening side to the left. Credit: ESO" class="wp-image-1960368"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This diagram shows the structure and motion of the atmosphere of the exoplanet Tylos (WASP-121b). The exoplanet is shown from above in this figure, looking at one of its poles. The planet rotates counter-clockwise, in such a way that it always shows the same side to its parent star, so it's always day on one half of the planet and night on the other. The transition between night and day is the "morning side" while the "evening side" represents the transition between day and night; its morning side is to the right and its evening side to the left. Credit: ESO</figcaption></figure>



By monitoring how iron, sodium, and hydrogen moved within these layers, the team reconstructed the flow of material from the planet’s deep interior to its outermost atmospheric regions.&nbsp;



“It’s the kind of observation that is very challenging to do with space telescopes, highlighting the importance of ground-based observations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-discovery-nasa-identifies-over-5500-distant-worlds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>,” noted dos Santos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metals-and-other-compounds">Metals and other compounds</h2>



The deeper parts of WASP-121b’s atmosphere feature intense heat, while the upper layers experience a dynamic interplay between cooler regions and strong winds.&nbsp;



The combined data indicate that metals and other compounds are shuttled around by swift jets, leading to the unfamiliar climate patterns seen on Tylos.



Alongside iron, sodium, and hydrogen, the researchers uncovered titanium in levels just beneath the high-altitude jet stream - an unexpected finding, given that previous attempts to locate titanium in WASP-121b’s atmosphere had come up short.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/exoplanet_WASP-121b_Tylos_atmosphere-layers_weather_eso_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/exoplanet_WASP-121b_Tylos_atmosphere-layers_weather_eso_1s.webp" alt="The atmosphere of Tylos (WASP-121b) is divided into three layers, with iron winds at the bottom, followed by a very fast jet stream of sodium, and finally an upper layer of hydrogen winds. This kind of climate has never been seen before on any planet. Credit: ESO" class="wp-image-1960558"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The atmosphere of Tylos (WASP-121b) is divided into three layers, with iron winds at the bottom, followed by a very fast jet stream of sodium, and finally an upper layer of hydrogen winds. This kind of climate has never been seen before on any planet. Credit: ESO</figcaption></figure>



“It’s truly mind-blowing that we’re able to study details like the chemical makeup and weather patterns of a planet at such a vast distance,” said Bibiana Prinoth, a PhD student at Lund University, Sweden, and ESO.



Prinoth led a companion study published in the journal <a href="http://aanda.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202452405" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a> and co-authored the Nature paper.



The newly detected titanium, hidden at lower altitudes, indicates the planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-finds-a-water-rich-planet-with-a-steamy-atmosphere-named-gj-9827d/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a> is even more complex than once thought.&nbsp;



While it remains unclear exactly how these metals form and move around Tylos, one possibility is that temperature gradients and the planet’s day-night contrast help determine where certain elements accumulate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-insights-on-alien-climates">Future insights on alien climates</h2>



The fact that WASP-121b’s jets and temperature distributions can be traced in such detail from light-years away marks a significant leap in exoplanet science.&nbsp;



Yet, as astronomers look to study smaller, rockier planets with potentially milder climates, even more powerful instruments will be required.&nbsp;



“The ELT will be a game-changer for studying exoplanet atmospheres,” Prinoth said, referring to the <a href="https://elt.eso.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Extremely Large Telescope</a> currently under construction in Chile’s Atacama Desert.&nbsp;



“This experience makes me feel like we’re on the verge of uncovering incredible things we can only dream about now.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probing-the-atmospheres-of-exoplanets">Probing the atmospheres of exoplanets</h2>



Using next-generation telescopes such as the ELT, researchers hope to probe the atmospheres of Earth-like planets and see if they harbor any hints of habitability.&nbsp;



By refining techniques already showcased in this study, astronomers aim to decode the layers, winds, and potentially life-supporting chemistry of still more distant worlds.&nbsp;



The success of this recent work on WASP-121b foreshadows a new era in which entire atmospheric systems - weather, chemical cycles, and beyond - can be revealed in detail, unveiling the dynamic nature of far-off environments that were once the stuff of pure speculation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08664-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser



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"Out of science fiction" - Weather on an alien planet viewed for the first time ever

A recent study has unveiled how chemical elements and powerful...

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Today’s Video of the Day comes from <a href="http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/">Lancaster University</a> and features a look at how babies learn to walk based on instinct.
When they’re held by an adult, babies can practice “reflex walking,” where they intuitively know to put one foot in front of the other.
The researchers played a video of humans walking for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-babies-pain-express/">babies</a> who had practiced reflex walking and babies who had not, and monitored the electrical activity in their brains.
 &#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Video Credit: <a href="http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/">Lancaster University</a>

How babies learn to walk

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