Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the remnants of Lake Razzaza, an artificial lake situated a few miles west of Karbala, Iraq.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> was created in the late 1970s as a flood control measure to regulate the floodwaters of the Euphrates River. 



Razzaza covers an area of approximately 1,562 square kilometers and is located in a depression where excess water from Lake Habbaniyah is diverted through a controlled escape channel or canal.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colors-of-lake-razzaza">The colors of Lake Razzaza</h2>



“The lake, also known as Baḩr al-Milḩ (‘Sea of Salt’ in Arabic), is fed by overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, which lies just outside the top left corner of the image,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153756/iraqs-sea-of-salt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The difference in water color results from the various communities of algae that thrive in the lake depending on the water temperature and salinity.”



“Green areas contain lower salt concentrations than red areas. At times when the lake receives no overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, as shown in this image, most of the lakebed is exposed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salinity-of-lake-razzaza">Salinity of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Over the years, the salinity of Lake Razzaza has been increasing due to inadequate water supply from the linked canal and high evaporation rates during Iraq's hot summers.&nbsp;



This rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-pollution-threatens-freshwater-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a> has led to a decline in fish populations, adversely affecting local fishermen who once relied on the lake for their livelihoods. 



By 2008, only the fish species locally known as "al-Shanik" (Acanthopagrus arabicus), of marine origin and stocked by the government, was reported to survive in the lake.&nbsp;



The lake's fluctuating water levels and increasing salinity have also impacted its recreational appeal, with few recreational areas existing around the lake.&nbsp;



Additionally, the surrounding desert landscape and low cliff shores contribute to its limited accessibility for leisure activities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-lake-razzaza">Wildlife of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Despite these challenges, Lake Razzaza remains an important habitat for various bird species. It has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, supporting significant numbers of wintering waterfowl and serving as a breeding ground for species such as the marbled duck.&nbsp;



The lake's mudflats attract large numbers of waders and shorebirds during migration periods.&nbsp;



The surrounding area features vegetation such as Phragmites australis, Juncus acutus, Aeluropus lagopoides, Salicornia herbacea, and Schoenoplectus litoralis, along with desert shrublands including Tamarix aucherana, Prosopis farcta, and Haloxylon salicornicum.&nbsp;



Mammals reported in this region include Rüppell's fox, golden jackal, Indian grey mongoose, jungle cat, and wildcat.&nbsp;



In recent years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-warming-toward-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> has faced environmental challenges due to reduced water inflows and increased evaporation, leading to higher salinity levels and a decline in biodiversity. 



Efforts to address these issues are essential to preserve the ecological and economic significance of Lake Razzaza.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-euphrates-river-nbsp">The Euphrates River&nbsp;</h2>



The Euphrates River is one of the most significant rivers in the Middle East and holds immense historical, cultural, and ecological importance.&nbsp;



Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles), it originates in the mountains of eastern Turkey and flows through Syria and Iraq before merging with the Tigris River to form the Shatt al-Arab, which empties into the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> has been a cradle of civilization for thousands of years, supporting ancient Mesopotamian societies, including Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria.



The Euphrates has provided water for irrigation, enabling the development of agriculture in an otherwise arid region. Its floodplains have been vital for sustaining life and fostering the growth of cities along its course.&nbsp;



However, the river also plays a key geopolitical role, as disputes over water usage and dam construction among Turkey, Syria, and Iraq have emerged over the years, impacting water availability downstream.



Ecologically, the Euphrates supports a range of habitats, from wetlands to desert ecosystems, making it home to diverse flora and fauna.&nbsp;



However, modern challenges such as damming, pollution, and climate change threaten its flow and ecological balance. Despite these challenges, the Euphrates remains a symbol of life and resilience in the heart of the Middle East.



The image was captured by an astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) on September 23, 2024.



Image Credit: NASA



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral galaxy NGC 2566, which is located 76 million light-years away in the constellation Puppis. The image was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



“A prominent bar of stars stretches across the center of this galaxy, and spiral arms emerge from each end of the bar. Because NGC 2566 appears tilted from our perspective, its disk takes on an almond shape, giving the galaxy the appearance of a cosmic eye,” said <a href="https://phys.org/news/2024-12-hubble-spies-spiral-galaxy-ngc.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“As NGC 2566 appears to gaze at us, astronomers gaze right back, using Hubble to survey the galaxy's star clusters and star-forming regions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-appearance-of-ngc-2566">Complex appearance of NGC 2566</h2>



NGC 2566 lies at a considerable distance from Earth, making it a challenging object for amateur astronomers to observe in detail without powerful telescopes.&nbsp;



It can be seen in the Southern Hemisphere sky and is better observed from locations with minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-light-pollution-influences-interest-in-astronomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>.&nbsp;



The galaxy's arms are populated with young, bright stars, regions of active star formation, and interstellar gas and dust - giving it a dynamic and complex appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-ages-of-stars">Measuring the ages of stars</h2>



According to NASA, data from Hubble is especially valuable for studying stars that are just a few million years old. “These stars are bright at the ultraviolet and visible wavelengths to which Hubble is sensitive.”



“Using these data, researchers can measure the ages of NGC 2566's stars, which helps piece together the timeline of the galaxy's star formation and the exchange of gas between star-forming clouds and the stars themselves.”



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



Star formation in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> is a fascinating and complex process that unfolds over millions of years. It begins in vast clouds of gas and dust, known as molecular clouds, which are often found in the spiral arms of galaxies or in regions of irregular or starburst galaxies.&nbsp;



These clouds provide the raw material for star formation, consisting primarily of hydrogen and helium, with trace amounts of heavier elements.



As the molecular clouds collapse under their own gravity, regions within them begin to condense and fragment, forming dense clumps. Within these clumps, protostars emerge. Their formation is driven by the gravitational pull drawing in surrounding gas. 



During this process, the gas heats up due to increasing pressure, eventually igniting nuclear fusion in the core, signaling the birth of a new star.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rate-of-star-formation-nbsp-across-galaxies">Rate of star formation&nbsp;across galaxies</h2>



The rate of star formation varies across galaxies is influenced by numerous factors. In spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, star formation is most active in the spiral arms, where density waves compress gas and dust, triggering the collapse of molecular clouds. 



In contrast, elliptical galaxies, which often have little cold gas and dust, typically exhibit low rates of star formation or none at all.



Starburst galaxies, on the other hand, experience episodes of exceptionally high star formation, often triggered by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-captures-a-galaxy-collision-with-a-radiant-smile/">galactic collisions</a> or interactions. 



These events can funnel large amounts of gas into central regions, leading to intense star-forming activity. However, such bursts are usually short-lived on cosmic timescales, exhausting the available gas quickly.



The environment within a galaxy also plays a significant role. Stellar winds and supernova explosions from existing stars can both inhibit and promote star formation. They may disperse gas, preventing further collapse, or compress nearby clouds, triggering new star formation.&nbsp;



Over time, as galaxies evolve, the availability of gas diminishes, leading to a gradual decline in star formation activity.



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



The Puppis constellation in the southern sky represents the stern of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation known as Argo Navis, which depicted the mythical ship of Jason and the Argonauts. 



However, Argo Navis was later divided into three separate constellations: Puppis, Carina (the keel), and Vela (the sails). Puppis is the largest of these three and contains many notable celestial objects.



This constellation is home to several bright stars, including Naos (Zeta Puppis), a hot, massive star that emits intense ultraviolet radiation. Puppis also hosts a wide variety of deep-sky objects, such as open <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-star-clusters-captured-in-the-extreme-outskirts-of-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and nebulae. 



Among these, Messier 46 and Messier 47 stand out. Both are beautiful star clusters that are visible through binoculars or small telescopes. The region is dense with stars because it lies along the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-collision-may-change-everything-we-know-about-our-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, making it a prime area for stargazing and astrophotography. 



Image Credit: NASA



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NGC 2566: A cosmic eye in the Puppis constellation

Today's Image of the Day from NASA features the spiral...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco.&nbsp;



The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae-nbsp">Planetary nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.



“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form 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>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.



“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the Cat’s Eye</h2>



“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”



According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”



Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;



Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;



In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.



Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;



One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;



Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;



The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;



The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



The Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study. 



These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 photograph of South Georgia, a remote and rugged island located in the southern Atlantic Ocean. 



"Linked with the South Sandwich Islands to form a British Overseas Territory, this southern Atlantic island is a haven for a vast array of wildlife," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Around five million seals call the islands home, as well as 65 million birds of 30 different species. Migrating whales and various fish species populate the surrounding waters and there is a large penguin population."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-wildlife-of-south-georgia">Climate and wildlife of South Georgia </h2>



The island is dominated by mountains, glaciers, and fjords. Its highest peak, Mount Paget, rises to 2,935 meters, making it one of the tallest in the region.



South Georgia’s location within the Antarctic Convergence gives it a cold, maritime climate. Although not part of the Antarctic Treaty System, its environment and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservation-efforts-are-not-enough-to-save-antarctic-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a> are closely linked to Antarctica. 



The island is home to vast colonies of penguins, seals, and seabirds. The surrounding waters are rich with krill, providing an abundant food source for marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-penguins-adapted-to-harsh-environments">Penguins adapted to harsh environments </h2>



The most notable species found here are the king penguins, which are the second-largest penguin species in the world. South Georgia also hosts large populations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-the-gentoo-penguin-the-worlds-fastest-swimming-bird/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gentoo</a> and macaroni penguins. 



The island's harsh climate, characterized by strong winds, snow, and cold temperatures, makes it a tough environment, but the penguins have adapted well. 



Their colonies - some of which number in the hundreds of thousands - can be found along the island's rugged coasts and beaches. 



The island’s isolation, combined with its plentiful food supply, makes it a critical breeding ground for these penguins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-south-georgia">History of South Georgia </h2>



The island has a history of exploration and exploitation. Captain James Cook first claimed South Georgia for Britain in 1775. 



During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a hub for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whaling</a> industry, with stations like Grytviken serving as operational centers. These stations have since been abandoned, and the island is now a haven for scientific research and ecotourism.



South Georgia is also notable for its role in Ernest Shackleton’s famed Endurance expedition. His crew reached the island in 1916 after an extraordinary open-boat journey from Elephant Island. Shackleton later died on South Georgia in 1922 and is buried in Grytviken.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pristine-nature-of-the-island">Pristine nature of the island</h2>



Today, South Georgia is a focus of conservation efforts. The eradication of invasive species, such as rats and reindeer, has been a significant success, allowing native wildlife to recover. 



Rats and mice were responsible for the decline of ground-nesting birds, including the South Georgia pipit, the island's only endemic bird. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reindeer-use-ultraviolet-vision-to-find-food-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reindeer</a>, which had been introduced for farming in the 19th century, caused extensive damage to the island’s vegetation, disrupting the habitat for native species.



South Georgia is uninhabited except for a small number of scientists and staff working at research stations and administrative facilities, emphasizing its role as a protected wilderness area and an essential site for understanding global environmental changes.



Its uninhabited status has helped preserve its pristine nature. Visitors to South Georgia must follow strict environmental guidelines to minimize human impact on this extraordinary island.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance-of-remote-islands">Scientific significance of remote islands </h2>



Remote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-life-on-islands-loses-diversity-when-humans-arrive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">islands</a> are scientifically significant for several reasons. They often serve as unique ecosystems that can provide insights into evolutionary processes, biodiversity, and adaptation. 



Due to their isolation, species on remote islands may evolve differently from their mainland counterparts, resulting in the development of endemic species that exist nowhere else in the world. 



These islands also act as natural laboratories for studying the effects of climate change, human activity, and ecological interactions, as they are more vulnerable to disturbances. 



Moreover, remote islands can offer valuable information on the health of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, as their ecosystems are often less impacted by human-induced factors. This makes them ideal for studying natural processes in relatively undisturbed environments. 



The isolation of these islands can also help scientists study the patterns of species migration, colonization, and extinction.



Image Credit: ESA 



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South Georgia: One of the most remote islands in the world

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Messak Settafet, a rocky plateau located in the central Sahara Desert. It is part of the greater Messak Plateau, which stretches between the Erg Uan Kasa and the Murzuq Sand Sea.&nbsp;



The plateau's surface is characterized by blackened sandstone, sculpted by thousands of years of wind erosion. This dark patina, often referred to as "desert varnish," adds to its distinctive appearance. The region is starkly beautiful but harsh, with extreme temperatures and minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-messak-settafet">Image of the Messak Settafet</h2>



“Towering over the desert in southwestern Libya, the Messak Settafet plateau resembles the wall of a giant fortress, with its dark, erosion-resistant sandstone separating the Ubari Sand Sea to the north and the Marzūq Sand Sea to the south,” noted NASA.



“The large outcrop of Cretaceous rock features a sharp escarpment on its north side. The cliff, some 300 meters (1,000 feet) high in places, is lined with a thin dark shadow.”&nbsp;



“Dark debris from rockfalls is visible to the north. Note that an optical illusion called relief inversion can make high-elevation areas appear low and vice versa when shadows appear on the northern side of a feature.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-archaeological-significance-of-the-plateau-nbsp">Archaeological significance of the plateau&nbsp;</h2>



Messak Settafet is often referred to as the "land of stone tools" because it is one of the world's largest sites for prehistoric tools.&nbsp;



The area is littered with countless <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fstone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tools</a> and artifacts dating back to various prehistoric periods, including the Acheulean and Neolithic. These tools offer insights into early human technology and adaptation to desert environments.



“Signs of ancient tool making cover much of the plateau’s surface,” said <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “According to one archaeological survey, people discarded so many stone tools and rock fragments on the plateau over hundreds of thousands of years that roughly 75 artifacts per square meter now carpet the surface.”&nbsp;



“That makes this one of the earliest known examples of hominins modifying an entire landscape, according to the University of Cambridge archaeologists who conducted the survey.”



“Other signs of ancient activity include the bright spots that dot the image. These areas were likely quarrying pits where people dug up rocks and crafted them into tools, the archaeologists reported.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rock-art-on-the-plateau-nbsp">Rock art on the plateau&nbsp;</h2>



The plateau is home to numerous petroglyphs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negev-petroglyphs-ancient-art-rock-carvings-face-erosion-fungi-lichens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carvings</a>. These engravings depict animals, humans, and symbolic designs, providing valuable clues about the lives, beliefs, and environments of the region's ancient inhabitants.&nbsp;



“For instance, Wadi Mathendous, a prehistoric archaeological site located in the southern part of the plateau, contains engravings of rhinoceroses, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, fighting cats, giraffes, long-horned buffaloes, and elephants. The art is thought to be about 8,000 years old,” said NASA.



Some of the animals depicted, such as giraffes and elephants, indicate that the Sahara was once a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fa-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much wetter</a> and more hospitable environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-messak-settafet">Cultural significance of the Messak Settafet</h2>



Messak Settafet forms part of the Rock-Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. This designation highlights the area's importance for understanding early human culture and environmental changes in the Sahara.



The plateau has been a critical area for studying the migration and adaptation of early humans. Its archaeological richness offers a glimpse into how humans thrived in this region during periods when the climate was wetter.



“Although the plateau now receives less than 0.4 inches of rain annually, clues in the landscape make clear it was once much wetter,” noted NASA.



“Deeply incised dried stream valleys, or wadis, crisscross the plateau, indicating significant past water flow. The small, bright features scattered across the plateau are sand and silt deposits left where water once pooled.”



The Messak Settafet, like many remote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-desert-dust-storms-carry-harmful-bacteria-and-fungi-around-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desert</a> regions, faces challenges such as erosion, vandalism of ancient rock art, and the potential impacts of development. 



Efforts to preserve its archaeological treasures are vital for protecting its cultural and scientific significance.



The image was captured November 17, 2024 by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on Landsat 9 on&nbsp;



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Messak Settafet plateau in the Sahara Desert

NASA’s Artemis program marks a shift from short lunar stays to a lasting human presence on the Moon. The agency has chosen the Lunar South Pole for its consistent visibility from Earth, near-continuous sunlight, and abundance of water ice.&nbsp;



However, this choice also presents an especially harsh lighting environment that could significantly limit astronaut safety and effectiveness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-angle-light-at-the-moon-s-south-pole">Low-angle light at the Moon's south pole</h2>



At the Lunar South Pole, the sun never rises more than a few degrees above the horizon. This geometry creates profound contrasts between bright light and deep shadow, often all within a short distance.&nbsp;



Past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-new-lunar-fss-mission-will-explore-moon-far-side-moonquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar missions</a>, such as Apollo, did not encounter these extreme lighting conditions, so solutions that once worked no longer suffice for a permanent stay.&nbsp;



The human eye, while adaptable, struggles with frequent transitions between intense brightness and darkness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-demands-of-the-artemis-project">Unique demands of the Artemis project</h2>



Under the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grow-plants-on-moon-by-2026-nasa-artemis-iii-mission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artemis</a> plan, astronauts must endure longer exposure to the sun and will also rely on artificial lighting in places where the sun never shines. These conditions demand a more complete approach, rather than relying on the spacesuit helmet alone or mission planning.&nbsp;



Effective vision is required for a range of duties, including moving around the surface, gathering samples, and managing rover systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coordinating-helmets-windows-and-artificial-lighting">Coordinating helmets, windows, and artificial lighting</h2>



A recent examination of existing technology revealed that improving vision in bright or dim settings requires a carefully integrated approach across <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> programs.&nbsp;



The aim is to align the design of spacesuit helmets, windows, and lighting systems in ways that help astronauts adjust between dark and light environments while avoiding eye damage.&nbsp;



This combined effort must let astronauts see clearly when working under the lunar sun, in shadow, or when shifting from one extreme to the other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-consistent-vision-nbsp">The need for consistent vision&nbsp;</h2>



Engineers discovered that current requirements focus on mobility but not enough on ensuring astronauts can see hazards or equipment in deep shadow or brilliant sunlight.&nbsp;



Tasks that future crews are expected to perform on the lunar surface do not fully match up with design expectations, meaning the need for consistent vision has not been thoroughly addressed across multiple systems.&nbsp;



This lack of cohesion could jeopardize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronaut</a> performance and mission safety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-in-extreme-lighting-conditions">Vision in extreme lighting conditions</h2>



The <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/nesc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Engineering and Safety Center</a> has recommended that the ability to see well in the Moon’s extreme lighting conditions should be established as a distinct requirement. 



This shift would require that helmet and window designs, along with lighting setups, work together as one comprehensive system.&nbsp;



The plan also calls for a range of virtual and physical simulations that replicate the dazzling sunlight and deep shadows at the Lunar South Pole.&nbsp;



These simulations must incorporate varying terrain to test how astronauts handle basic tasks, like walking, alongside more advanced operations, such as equipment servicing.



Each simulation facility has different capabilities, so these facilities must be defined in terms of their advantages and limitations to ensure they collectively fulfill the necessary research and training objectives.&nbsp;



By refining designs, integrating these systems, and validating them through realistic testing, NASA aims to equip future astronauts with the tools to thrive on the lunar surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-sustainable-future-on-the-moon">Building a sustainable future on the Moon</h2>



Humanity’s drive to explore beyond our home planet is rooted in an enduring curiosity and a desire to push the boundaries of what is possible. This determination has propelled us from early observations of the night sky to monumental achievements like landing on the Moon.&nbsp;



Today, programs like Artemis represent a shift from fleeting exploration to establishing a sustained presence beyond Earth.&nbsp;



By overcoming the challenges of extreme environments, such as the Moon’s harsh lighting conditions, we are not only securing a foothold on another celestial body but also paving the way for deeper space exploration.



The lessons learned from living and working on the Moon will serve as a blueprint for future missions to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-gravity-pulls-earth-closer-to-the-sun-warming-our-climate-scientists-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> and beyond.



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Astronauts face extreme lighting challenges at the Moon's south pole

NASA’s Artemis program marks a shift from short lunar stays...

Quantum,Computing,Concept.,Digital,Communication,Network.,Technological,Abstract.

Northwestern University engineers made a remarkable advance in quantum computing and communication, demonstrating quantum teleportation over a standard fiber optic cable that already carries everyday Internet traffic.



This development shows that quantum communication might not require dedicated lines, which clears the path for easier and more widespread integration of quantum and classical data sharing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-for-quantum-networking">Path for quantum networking</h2>



The news centers around the idea that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parker-solar-probe-will-fly-through-suns-atmosphere-tomorrow-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum signals</a> -- information carried by delicate particles of light known as photons -- can travel alongside everyday Internet traffic without losing their integrity. This breakthrough demonstrates quantum teleportation, a process where the state of a particle (like a photon) is transferred to another distant particle without the initial particle moving physically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-quantum-teleportation">Science behind quantum teleportation</h2>



By using entangled photons, this method enables secure, near-instantaneous data sharing and paves the way for future quantum networks.



The research team successfully tested a setup that allows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negative-time-observed-measured-tangible-in-new-quantum-experiments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> information to weave through the bustling flow of regular Internet data without interference. 



This achievement overcomes one of the biggest hurdles in making quantum networks a practical reality.



<a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/research-faculty/directory/profiles/kumar-prem.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prem Kumar</a>, who oversaw the research, is a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Northwestern’s <a href="https://www.mccormick.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McCormick School of Engineering</a>. 



He is known for his contributions to quantum communication and serves as the director of the Center for Photonic Communication and Computing. In their recent work, Kumar and his collaborators introduce a new way of thinking about quantum signals alongside their classical counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-entanglement-in-quantum-communication">Entanglement in quantum communication</h2>



Quantum teleportation stands out because it uses entanglement as a way to exchange information without physically sending matter across a distance. The concept traces back to <a href="https://journals.aps.org/pr/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev.47.777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Einstein,</a> <a href="https://journals.aps.org/pr/abstract/10.1103/PhysRev.47.777" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Podolsky</a>, and Rosen in 1935. Scientists have since <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.70.1895" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tested</a> quantum entanglement in labs, culminating in the formal proposal for quantum teleportation in 1993.



One of the biggest appeals of quantum teleportation is that it can occur almost as fast as light travels. Photons can become entangled so that performing a measurement on one instantaneously affects its partner, no matter how far away it is. “This is incredibly exciting because nobody thought it was possible; our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elusive-quantum-negative-entanglement-entropy-deciphered-in-the-lab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classical networks</a> sharing a unified fiberoptic infrastructure. Basically, it opens the door to pushing quantum communications to the next level,” enthused Kumar.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-delicate-photons">Protecting delicate photons</h2>



Securing a clear route for single photons involves more than just adding them to an active cable. Ordinary Internet traffic typically relies on millions of light particles, so a handful of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/google-record-shattering-quantum-ai-chip-accesses-parallel-universes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> photons can easily get lost or overwhelmed. The <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern</a> team performed detailed studies on how light scatters inside the cable to see if there was a specific wavelength that experiences less clutter. 



They pinpointed that sweet spot and added special filters to reduce the noise generated by normal data traffic.



“Quantum teleportation has the ability to provide quantum connectivity securely between geographically distant nodes,” said Kumar. Past work suggested that large-scale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/functioning-quantum-internet-makes-giant-stride-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum networks</a> might need specialized systems. Now, his findings reveal that this might not be strictly necessary, if signals are positioned in just the right place in the spectrum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-test-run-in-busy-channels">First test run in busy channels</h2>



Earlier demonstrations of quantum teleportation typically involved pristine settings or dedicated fibers. 



Some <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aan3211">researchers</a> believed that real-world cables, teeming with signals, would smother the faint quantum light. That assumption has been proven wrong.



In tests at Northwestern, the researchers ran quantum signals and classical communications over the same fiber optic cable without them colliding. 



They measured how well the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electrons-can-follow-neat-paths-even-in-chaotic-quantum-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum information</a> arrived at its destination and confirmed that it was still correct at the other end. “Our work shows a path towards next-generation quantum and classical networks,” Kumar summarized.



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



The immediate plan is to scale the system to longer runs and then transition to underground fiber connections. 



The group believes that an eventual shift to real-world cables could be next. Building on single-pair teleportation, they also want to experiment with multiple pairs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entangled photons</a> to achieve another crucial step known as entanglement swapping.



If that milestone is reached, quantum networks could begin to take shape across regions rather than only between two points. For critical operations in finance, defense, and data management, such networks could offer more secure connections thanks to the inherent secrecy of quantum methods, where any tampering is immediately noticeable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-applications">Broader applications</h2>



The capacity to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum connections</a> without setting up special cables makes many new ideas more viable. 



Distributed quantum computing, which relies on linking multiple quantum computers in different locations, would be simpler to establish. 



Distance-sensing tasks and advanced metrology could also benefit from more stable quantum links.



Even beyond computing, quantum networks have the potential to spur new technologies in encryption, imaging, and fundamental physics experiments. Researchers have also discussed using quantum entanglement to <a href="https://watermark.silverchair.com/020011_1_online.pdf?token=AQECAHi208BE49Ooan9kkhW_Ercy7Dm3ZL_9Cf3qfKAc485ysgAAAzAwggMsBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagggMdMIIDGQIBADCCAxIGCSqGSIb3DQEHATAeBglghkgBZQMEAS4wEQQMxOCNBnzx99LUOAbXAgEQgIIC41_WikXKemGuhWdzU4OnkQXRNjdQ5jj8bK5la7lzZlWPVXgV6KM-mv4frQgdokiIKWhEiPaL2MBMicf8FXjC7C9DHm7cmfKlXHX0RsBGMmNFXIf3tnlSoygfD_3DsxoPrGUO5slXsAOpR2nNcOJqQMHxOtS2vZo885BZQmEF8j2Tdz7Eih6K3tmVzUTRmYwHJ4KtMk-RjD1JHXfFwUnnQ0B-Qk9VmP_s05zipejBq28CbQySyGw7Mi-SfxNEW7qC-VEEFHy__hVKeExMG4HmltzHbp-k_zPnwktK7eEojGWH17mX6qfBGSE_fSGYQYHh82x6TLx2HdMBx2RVuTZIxpClItEPUEuHXIn4ZM4QBHWUlhzFcnm5moZmsfIxN9II_S8v4fKN3hCeAp8QpjjhQyT3coqB4S80iIXBN3V1wpJMknK0WwKpuekyl7Tpcv1zPchLng2_lN8TuajzF8lyuBSRFWKGg4nKkdwtCV3OnUweAUfYwNrQdUgY769pFqspGxXh7VPhcgDe8hcdc9-EX2Y7uz7jMMmDyc9q7sJ0jW1tM2tUVkXYpOvSVkcuFN5Qa4ud5D8xdQ4UUL1nvGnhvJuTvT1kv2WiRlSy-3_uhi75BUEPppoyIv22JtpjkcAmQYEmLgcSdROYaB7LB5ySLLQ1rRZW7BFQvI5W7Zv0FX64VIvx1sNCubj1HvROm9OR026h8Kt-VuE8YZwoGgUP4DPycn_gwFHMguRZfU_bbMIBnLyufXePFSsPB0Nfv_gpwYN6lNzD3oyZPbo5BumjsspwgrOmvZADcEM6hyqkhAOGBm5gf5QiFtGWxvY9pYT2xSR9LI6C8cxxDNl8VMtRCK2pwJ_e2sg6h3sdILLYVzHuF4DO7SWTW0unBeit2cvJtDSN-PcPRtsTvI5eYgQkwouAfEZ3o4fKme-h8q4Ik1RVGvz3kMW2bnGOvgK0LeIer5Frkr3op85V1mpuWR1-l-Jjq6M">synchronize distant clocks</a> or to share random numbers for cryptography at unprecedented levels of security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-quantum-teleportation">Significance of quantum teleportation </h2>



Quantum teleportation has matured from a fascinating theory to a tool that is becoming more practical. 



While it is never straightforward to integrate delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unbreakable-encryption-brings-quantum-internet-communication-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum signals</a>, the Northwestern group’s accomplishment raises confidence that such integration is within reach.



Many experts have believed that building specialized infrastructure was an unavoidable cost of quantum networking. 



According to Kumar’s report, if wavelengths are picked carefully, classical signals and quantum information can coexist just fine. This line of thinking spares organizations from installing entire new grids of cables.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-work-on-quantum-teleportation">Future work on quantum teleportation</h2>



In upcoming work, the researchers plan to expand the scope of their approach in longer segments to confirm that the method remains stable as cables stretch far past the lab. They will also design a multi-node demonstration to verify it can handle more than a single link. There is much excitement that existing communication channels, once tuned just right, could <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-atoms-qkd-quantum-communication-revolutionizing-data-protection-privacy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carry quantum data</a> to distant points.



With such possibilities on the horizon, quantum teleportation may shift from a theoretical concept to a tool that transforms communication. 



The future might see quantum and classical networks working side by side in ways that once sounded unlikely.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://opg.optica.org/optica/fulltext.cfm?uri=optica-11-12-1700&amp;id=565936" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Optica</a>.



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"Impossible" quantum teleportation achieved on normal internet cables

Northwestern University engineers made a remarkable advance in quantum computing...

Scientists have long studied Antarctica's icy frontiers to predict how our warming world could reshape coastlines everywhere. Their attention recently turned to an unexpected ally: an Antarctic octopus that inhabits the chilly waters around the continent.



This Antarctic octopus species, known among experts for its unique distribution, has offered vital clues about a time in the past when ice retreated, ocean passages opened, and sea levels rose. 



Its DNA carries signals of events that may happen again if global temperatures continue to rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-ice-and-turquet-s-octopus">Antarctic ice and Turquet’s octopus</h2>



Lead author Sally Lau of <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> in Australia explained that the genetic markers in this marine invertebrate link to shifts in Antarctica’s ice sheets thousands of years ago. 



She said, “I understand and then apply DNA and biology as a proxy of changes to Antarctica in the past.”



Researchers focused on a species commonly called Turquet’s octopus (<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Turquets-octopus_Pareledone-turqueti_west-Antarctic-ice-sheet_wais_credit-SAEF_1m.webp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pareledone turqueti</a>), which is widespread around Antarctica and has been recognized for around four million years.



This cephalopod measures about half-a-foot (15 centimeters) long excluding its arms and weighs approximately 1.3 pounds (600 grams).



Because it lays relatively few large eggs that must be tended carefully on the seafloor, the animal tends not to wander far, making each population’s genetic signatures more distinct. Circular sea currents trap different groups in separate regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-turquet-s-octopus-the-basics">Understanding Turquet’s octopus - the basics</h2>



Known for its adaptability to the icy environment, Turquet’s octopus (Pareledone turqueti) is a master of camouflage, using its ability to change color and texture to blend into its surroundings. 



It thrives at depths of around 200 to 500 meters, where sunlight barely reaches, making it an elusive creature for scientists to study. 



Despite living in such a harsh environment, Turquet’s octopus is well-equipped to survive, thanks to its remarkable physiology and unique behaviors.



For such a small creature, it plays an outsized role in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/akarotaxis-gouldae-new-banded-dragonfish-species-discovered-reveals-antarctic-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic ecosystem</a>. It’s a predator, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates, and is an important part of the food web.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-octopus-dna-and-antarctic-ice-sheet-melt">Octopus DNA and Antarctic ice sheet melt</h2>



Scientists analyzed genetic data across 96 samples taken over three decades from museum collections. Findings showed clear evidence that this octopus once traveled between the Weddell, Amundsen, and Ross seas.



The only way for that to have happened was if massive expanses of ice vanished, opening channels where water (and octopuses) could move freely.



Genetic mixing placed those moments of ice sheet collapse in the mid-Pliocene, roughly 3-3.5 million years ago, and again during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/accelerating-coastal-retreat-in-alaska-the-triple-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Last Interglacial period</a>, between 129,000 and 116,000 years ago.



“This was the last time the planet was around 1.5 degrees warmer than pre-industrial levels,” said Lau.



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



Scientists report that human activity has so far raised global temperatures by 1.2C relative to late 1700s benchmarks.



Experts warn that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/west-antarctic-ice-sheet-melting-will-accelerate-regardless-of-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West Antarctic Ice Sheet</a> (WAIS) could be unstable under current climate targets, with the potential to add around 10-15 feet (3.3-5 meters) of sea level rise long term.



This study provides empirical evidence indicating that the WAIS collapsed when the global mean temperature was similar to that of today, suggesting that the tipping point of future WAIS collapse is "close."



Another contribution described the analysis as “pioneering,” noting that “and this latest piece of evidence from octopus DNA stacks one more card on an already unstable house of cards.”



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



The researchers emphasized in their study that many factors can influence how quickly an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-greening-at-an-unprecedented-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet melts</a>, including changing ocean currents and the interaction between ice and the underlying bedrock.



Additional mysteries include whether the sea level rise would stretch over many centuries or appear in a series of faster surges.



They also highlighted ongoing research into whether various forces, beyond warmer temperatures, triggered the previous collapses.



Low-lying coastlines face the brunt of these possibilities. Even a modest rise can reshape communities and infrastructure on a global scale.



Researchers point to growing data on past sea levels, combined with the new genetic work, as motivation for further studies into climate dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-clues-from-the-southern-ocean">More clues from the Southern Ocean</h2>



Questions about Antarctica’s future intersect with the behavior of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-ocean-absorbs-more-co2-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Ocean</a>. 



Recent analysis led by <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=b-RiXNQAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Simon Josey</a>, an expert on ocean-atmosphere interaction at the UK’s National Oceanography Centre (<a href="https://noc.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOC</a>), connected shrinking Antarctic sea ice to more powerful winter storms and major changes in ocean structure.



According to the findings, years with minimal sea ice are likely to experience heightened storm activity and notable shifts in how heat and nutrients move through the water.



One crucial observation centers on water density. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-antarctic-sea-ice-loss-is-causing-severe-storms-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface waters lose heat</a>, they become heavier and sink more readily.



“The massive increase in ocean heat loss to the atmosphere is increasing the density of water at the sea surface to values not previously seen,” said Professor Josey.



This diving of denser water can alter how the ocean circulates, which then affects temperatures and nutrient flows over great distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-ice-turquet-s-octopus-and-the-future">Antarctic ice, Turquet’s octopus, and the future</h2>



Long-term changes in these deep currents might ripple through wider ocean basins, impacting weather patterns on other continents.



While many questions remain, scientists who investigate these signals from both ice sheets and marine life say the findings underscore the delicate balance of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar environment</a>.



Observations from octopus DNA, past sea level data, and new measurements of ocean heat exchange all add to the conversation about how warming may influence global coastlines and climates.



Researchers continue searching for more clues. Some look to ocean sediments, others to geological evidence. Each piece offers a small glimpse into cycles of warming and cooling that have repeated over millennia.



The common thread is the realization that Antarctica, though distant for many, is entwined with planetary systems in ways that affect all of us.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ade0664?ftag=YHF4eb9d17" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Octopus DNA tells scientists that total collapse of the Antarctic ice sheet is "close"

Scientists have long studied Antarctica's icy frontiers to predict how...

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EPA: Background on the WARN Initiative