Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Messier 78 (M78), a reflection nebula located in the constellation Orion about 1,350 light-years away from Earth. 



This image was released as part of the initial series of observations from ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a>.&nbsp;



All data collected during these early observations, including a series of incredible <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid/Euclid_s_first_images_the_dazzling_edge_of_darkness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new views</a> of the nearby universe, is available to the public. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-messier-78">Image of Messier 78</h2>



Featured here is a high-resolution, detailed segment of a larger image showcasing Messier 78, a dynamic region of star formation obscured by cosmic dust.&nbsp;



This specific view highlights how young stars generate winds of charged particles, carving out “cavities” in the molecular clouds around them.&nbsp;



The blue hues in the image represent ionized atomic hydrogen, which is a primary component of the cloud, while the red indicates the absorption and scattering of light by dust particles.



The image captures hundreds of stars varying in brightness, illuminating their nebulous, purple surroundings. A dark, arch-like structure stretches from the upper left to the bottom right of the frame, merging into the densest, darkest clouds at the image’s base.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-site-of-star-formation-nbsp">Active site of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is not just a single nebula but part of a larger complex of stars and nebulous regions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a>, which includes various other objects like dark nebulae that are visible as patches blocking light from behind.



This region is an active site of star formation, featuring many young stars and protostars, which are stars in the early stages of formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-messier-78">Viewing Messier 78</h2>



M78 is easily observable with small telescopes, and it appears as a hazy patch of light with two prominent stars near its center, which illuminate the surrounding dust.&nbsp;



The nebula is also a favorite among amateur astronomers for its beauty and relatively bright appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subject-of-scientific-interest-nbsp">Subject of scientific interest&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <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> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;



The nebula consists of dense, cold gas and dust, which are essential ingredients for the birth of new stars.&nbsp;



The intense blue light that characterizes M78 is due to the reflection of starlight off these dust particles, a process known as scattering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-region-surrounding-messier-78-nbsp">Region surrounding Messier 78&nbsp;</h2>



The region surrounding M78 includes several other interesting features. For instance, there are Herbig-Haro objects within it, which are small patches of nebulosity associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly born stars</a>.&nbsp;



These objects are formed when gas ejected by young stars collides with clouds of gas and dust at high speeds, creating shock waves that glow brightly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earliest-stages-of-star-development-nbsp">Earliest stages of star development&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, infrared observations of M78 have revealed much about the dust and colder objects in the area, which are not visible in optical light.&nbsp;



The observations have helped astronomers identify numerous young stars and brown dwarfs (objects that are too large to be planets and too small to be stars) within the nebula. 



This makes M78 a critical area for studying the earliest stages of star development and the properties of the interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp-0">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-batch-of-brilliant-images-from-the-euclid-mission-live-up-to-the-hype/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a> is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission designed to study the dark universe, particularly focusing on dark energy and dark matter, which are fundamental components that are believed to drive the accelerating expansion of the universe and shape its large-scale structure.&nbsp;



The mission aims to map the geometry of the dark universe and better understand the physics of the cosmos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-billions-of-galaxies-nbsp">Observing billions of galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Euclid uses two primary scientific instruments: a visible light camera (VIS) and a near-infrared spectrometer and photometer (NISP).&nbsp;



These instruments will allow Euclid to measure the shapes and redshifts of galaxies at distances of up to 10 billion light-years. By surveying more than a third of the sky, the mission is expected to observe several billion galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-dark-universe-nbsp">Studying the dark universe&nbsp;</h3>



The data collected will help astronomers in studying the effects of dark matter and dark energy in depth, testing cosmological models, and exploring new theories about the nature of the universe.&nbsp;



The mission, named after the ancient Greek mathematician Euclid, seeks to address key questions related to the structure of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics governing its evolution and expansion.



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

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

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 features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, which is located about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. NGC 3783 is also the most prominent of a galaxy group (by the same name) that contains 47 galaxies. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-groups">Galaxy groups</h2>



“Like galaxy clusters, galaxy groups are aggregates of gravitationally bound galaxies. Galaxy groups, however, are less massive and contain fewer members than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clusters</a> do: where galaxy clusters can contain hundreds or even thousands of constituent galaxies, galaxy groups do not typically include more than 50,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The Milky Way is actually part of a galaxy group, known as the Local Group, which contains two other large galaxies (Andromeda and the Triangulum galaxy), as well as several dozen satellite and dwarf galaxies.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hd-101274-a-blue-giant-star">HD 101274: A blue giant star</h2>



The bright object that appears to the right of the galaxy is the star HD 101274. “The perspective in this image makes the star and the galaxy look like close companions, but this is an illusion. HD 101274 lies only about 1,530 light-years from Earth, meaning it is about 85 thousand times closer than NGC 3783,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



The star is part of the NGC 3766 cluster, which is sometimes referred to as the Pearl Cluster, an open cluster known for its richness in bright stars and its relatively young age.



HD 101274 is categorized as a blue giant star, characterized by its high temperature and luminosity. 



Blue giants are massive stars that have left the main sequence phase of stellar evolution and are burning helium or heavier elements in their cores. These stars are known for their short lifespans relative to smaller stars due to their rapid consumption of nuclear fuel.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stars</a> like HD 101274 are important for astronomers because they help in studying the properties of stellar populations in clusters and the dynamics of stellar evolution in different environments. 



The spectral and photometric observations of such stars can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of their atmospheres, internal structures, and the processes occurring within and around them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-central-region-of-ngc-3783">Bright central region of NGC 3783</h2>



One of the most interesting aspects of NGC 3783 is that it harbors an active galactic nucleus, meaning its central region is exceptionally luminous, likely due to the presence of a supermassive black hole. This black hole is actively accreting material, which emits a substantial amount of radiation as it spirals inward and heats up.



The galaxy is particularly known for its bright central region and has been studied extensively in the ultraviolet and X-ray light spectra to understand better the properties of the accretion disk around the black hole and the complex dynamics of the material surrounding it. These studies are crucial for understanding the physics of active galactic nuclei and the role they play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>.



According to ESA, NGC 3783 is a&nbsp;Type I Seyfert galaxy. “In this image it is recorded by Hubble in incredible detail, from its glowing central bar to its narrow, winding arms and the dust threaded through them, thanks to five separate images taken in different wavelengths of light," noted ESA.



“In fact, the galactic center is bright enough to Hubble that it exhibits diffraction spikes, normally only seen on stars such as HD 101274.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ngc-3783-galaxy-group">More about the NGC 3783 galaxy group</h2>



The NGC 3783 group is part of the larger Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster, which itself is a massive collection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and galaxy clusters located primarily in the constellations of Hydra and Centaurus.



The NGC 3783 group consists of several galaxies that are gravitationally bound and interact with each other. These interactions can influence the galaxies' evolution through mechanisms like tidal forces and merger events, which can trigger star formation, fuel central black holes, and reshape the galaxies' structures.



Studying groups like the NGC 3783 group helps astronomers understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> evolve together in a common gravitational environment, offering insights into the dynamics and evolution of structures on cosmic scales. 



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a 9.5-mile section of Pangong Lake on the western end of the Tibetan Plateau. The image was captured on by a crew member onboard the International Space Station.&nbsp;



“In this winter scene, a sheet of cracked ice tops part of the lake,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “On the left side, open water appears blue. Shallow water offshore of a delta, formed by a small, winding river, appears green."



"Parallel lines along the coastlines of bays are visible in the high-resolution version of this image. These lines indicate raised beaches, which formed in the past when lake levels were higher.”



NASA pointed out that several roads cut across the landscape, including one with switchbacks that ascends a steep slope. "These roads facilitate tourist travel from both India and China.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-birds-at-pangong-lake-nbsp">Migratory birds at Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake and its surroundings are home to numerous bird species, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-burn-unexpected-amounts-of-protein/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a>. Visitors can spot various waterfowl and waders that are rarely seen elsewhere.



“During the summer, species such as bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks attract bird watchers to the lake, which is a major breeding ground for migrating birds,” said NASA.



Pangong Lake is one of the few places in India where the endangered black-necked crane is found during its breeding season. 



Ruddy shelduck and brown-headed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gulls</a> are also frequently spotted around the lake. The ruddy shelduck is known for its striking orange-brown body and creamy white head, while the brown-headed gulls are often seen flying or swimming in the lake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pangong-lake-nbsp">Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-are-rising-unexpectedly-fast-on-the-tibetan-plateau/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, extending from India to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. It is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic setting, with the lake lying at an elevation of about 4,350 meters.



One of the most distinctive features of Pangong Lake is its changing colors, ranging from shades of blue to green and even red, influenced by the sky's reflection and the lake's mineral content.



This saline water lake is approximately 134 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide at its broadest point. Despite its considerable size, Pangong Lake is relatively shallow. 



The lake gained additional popularity after being featured in several Indian films - most notably the Bollywood hit "3 Idiots." Its remote location requires a permit for visitors, especially due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control between India and China.



Despite the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding its location, Pangong Lake remains a favorite among tourists for its unparalleled natural beauty and serene environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-altitude-lakes">High-altitude lakes</h2>



High-altitude lakes are unique bodies of water found at elevations typically above 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in mountain ranges like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, Andes, and Rockies. 



These lakes are formed either by glacial activity, where glaciers erode the earth to create depressions that fill with melted snow and rainwater, or when natural dams created by landslides or moraines trap water in valleys.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environments">Extreme environments</h3>



The conditions at high altitudes make these lakes distinct in several ways. The climate is typically colder and harsher, with significant temperature variations between day and night. 



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of 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">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-habitats">Critical habitats</h3>



Biologically, high-altitude lakes often have limited biodiversity because only certain types of plants and animals can tolerate the cold temperatures and lower oxygen levels in the water. 



Despite this, these lakes are crucial habitats for some unique species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They also serve as important indicators of climate change, as variations in their water levels and temperatures can reflect environmental shifts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-high-altitude-lakes">Significance of high-altitude lakes </h3>



Lakes at high altitudes are often clear and pristine, due to the low density of human populations in these areas and minimal industrial activity, making them significant for ecological studies and attractive for tourism. 



However, they are sensitive ecosystems, and increased tourist activity brings challenges like pollution and habitat disruption.



High-altitude lakes are not only beautiful and scientifically significant but also hold cultural importance for local communities, often considered sacred and associated with historical and spiritual significance.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the aftermath of devastating floods in the Valencia region of Eastern Spain.&nbsp;



On October 29, 2024, torrential rainfall unleashed nearly a year’s worth of precipitation in just eight hours, leading to catastrophic flash floods that affected a vast area from Málaga to Valencia. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flash-floods-in-valencia">Flash floods in Valencia </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-floods-are-set-to-become-much-more-common-in-the-u-s/">Floodwaters</a> submerged entire neighborhoods and agricultural lands. Many roads and infrastructure were overwhelmed almost instantly, stranding vehicles and prompting widespread evacuations. Water levels rose faster than emergency services could respond.



One resident of Paiporta, near Valencia, told the BBC that when the water started to rise it was "like a tsunami wave."



“In a matter of minutes, flash floods caused by heavy downpours in eastern Spain swept away everything in their path. With no time to react, people were trapped in vehicles, homes and businesses,” reported the Associated Press.



More than 200 people were killed and thousands of people were rescued. According to SOS Desaparecidos, as many as 1,300 people remained unaccounted for on Friday, three days after the floods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnitude-of-the-tragedy-nbsp">Magnitude of the tragedy&nbsp;</h2>



Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister for Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, said: “The fact that we can’t give a number of the missing persons indicates the magnitude of the tragedy.”&nbsp;



Some areas, including the Spanish town of Alfafar, are completely cut off from communication.&nbsp;



Juan Ramón Adsuara, the mayor of Alfafar, said the aid isn't nearly enough for residents trapped in an "extreme situation."



"There are people living with corpses at home. It's very sad. We are organizing ourselves, but we are running out of everything," Adsuara told reporters. "We go with vans to Valencia, we buy and we come back, but here we are totally forgotten."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-warning-was-not-issued-in-time">Government warning was not issued in time</h2>



On Tuesday morning, Spain's meteorological agency Aemet warned that torrential rains were forecast for the region of Valencia, before issuing a&nbsp; "maximum red alert.”



Carlos Mazon, Valencia’s regional president, said the government sent out an SMS alert reserved for the “worst possible scenario.” But according to a report from CNN, that alert was sent hours too late.



“By 5 p.m., Valencia’s emergency services were swamped by hundreds of pleas for help throughout the region,” wrote Atika Shubert, a CNN Senior International Correspondent.



“It was at 8 p.m. that cell phones finally buzzed with the public alert telling residents to stay indoors. Much too little, much too late, even for those downstream of the raging water who might otherwise have had time to prepare.”



The BBC also noted that many people have questioned the timing of the government's warning, which arrived more than 12 hours after Aemet issued its first red alert.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-in-a-warming-climate">Extreme weather in a warming climate</h2>



The deadly floods in Valencia were primarily caused by an extreme weather event that brought record-breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-events-are-interconnected-around-the-globe/">rainfall</a>. The intense downpour was fueled by unusually warm Mediterranean Sea temperatures, which increased moisture in the atmosphere and intensified the rainfall.&nbsp;



Climate experts link this phenomenon to climate change, as warmer seas lead to more frequent, severe storms. The combination of heavy rain and the region's limited drainage capacity led to flash flooding, overwhelming local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/">infrastructure</a>.



Rising ocean temperatures are largely driven by increased greenhouse gases that trap more heat in the atmosphere. Oceans absorb about 90% of this excess heat, leading to warmer waters, especially near the surface.&nbsp;



This warming disrupts marine ecosystems, contributing to coral bleaching and altering habitats for species like fish and marine mammals.



With the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">climate crisis</a> intensifying, experts warn that warmer ocean temperatures will heighten the risk of rapid, destructive rainfall events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-deadliest-flood-in-europe-this-century-nbsp">Second-deadliest flood in Europe this century&nbsp;</h2>



Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the disaster was the second-deadliest flood in Europe this century and that Spain was carrying out its largest deployment of army and security force personnel in peacetime. The country was sending 5,000 soldiers and 5,000 police officers to the eastern region of Valencia on Saturday.



Four days after the devastating floods, rescuers are still searching for bodies. Thousands of volunteers are helping to clean up the thick mud that covers streets, homes, and businesses in the hardest-hit towns.&nbsp;



Prime Minister Sanchez responded to people who expressed they feel abandoned with no help or communication in the days following the tragic flooding.



“I am aware the response is not enough, there are problems and severe shortages… towns buried by mud, desperate people searching for their relatives.”



"For those who at this moment are still looking for their loved ones, the whole of Spain weeps with you."



According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/">ESA</a>, the Copernicus Emergency Rapid Mapping Service has been activated to provide satellite imagery that can support rescue and recovery efforts.



Image Credit: USGS, processed by ESA&nbsp;



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Valencia floods: A tragedy fueled by extreme weather

A team of biologists has recently revealed the origins of a unique DNA duplication mechanism that grants plants additional ways to control genetic instructions.&nbsp;



This discovery, led by Xuehua Zhong from the <a href="https://washu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University in St. Louis</a> (WashU), holds promise for innovations in agriculture, particularly in enhancing crop resilience to environmental challenges like heat and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a>. 



The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adr2222" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>, delves into DNA methylation - a biological process that plays a key role in gene regulation, directly impacting how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-make-life-and-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> respond to environmental stressors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-plant-dna-methylation">Complexity of plant DNA methylation</h2>



DNA methylation involves adding small chemical groups called methyl groups to DNA. This modification determines which genes are turned on or off, shaping various plant traits.&nbsp;



A crucial part of this process involves silencing “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fungus-has-become-more-deadly-thanks-to-jumping-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jumping genes</a>” or transposons, which are mobile DNA sequences that can disrupt normal genetic function if not controlled. In plants, this regulatory role is handled by specialized enzymes, distinct from those found in mammals.



“Mammals only have two major enzymes that add methyl groups in one DNA context, but plants actually have multiple enzymes that do that in three DNA contexts,” Zhong explained, highlighting the unique complexity of plant DNA methylation.&nbsp;



“The question is - why do plants need extra methylation enzymes?” This research could pave the way for advancements in agriculture by helping scientists to tap into plant systems that naturally regulate resilience-related traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-enzymes-in-plant-dna">The role of enzymes in plant DNA</h2>



Zhong’s study focuses on two enzymes unique to plants: CMT3 and CMT2. Both enzymes are part of the chromomethylase (CMT) family, responsible for adding methyl groups to specific DNA sequences.&nbsp;



CMT3 specializes in methylating so-called CHG sequences, while CMT2 targets CHH sequences. Despite their differences, these enzymes share a common ancestry, having evolved through duplication events that provided plants with extra copies of genetic information.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-history-of-the-enzymes-nbsp">Evolutionary history of the enzymes&nbsp;</h2>



Using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, also known as thale cress, Zhong’s team traced the evolutionary history of these enzymes.&nbsp;



The experts discovered that CMT2 lost its ability to methylate CHG sequences due to the absence of an amino acid called arginine, a change that occurred during the enzyme’s evolution.&nbsp;



“Arginine is special because it has charge. In a cell, it’s positively charged and thus can form hydrogen bonds or other chemical interactions with, for example, the negatively charged DNA,” explained co-author Jia Gwee, a graduate student at WashU.



CMT2, however, contains valine instead of arginine. Valine lacks the necessary charge to interact with CHG sequences, explaining why CMT2 no longer recognizes these DNA contexts as CMT3 does.&nbsp;



To test this theory, the research team introduced arginine back into CMT2, restoring its ability to methylate both CHG and CHH sequences.&nbsp;



This mutation suggests that CMT2 originally functioned as a duplicate of CMT3 - a backup enzyme with the potential to diversify its function as plant DNA complexity grew.&nbsp;



“But instead of simply copying the original function, it developed something new,” Zhong noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-environmental-stress">Adapting to environmental stress</h2>



The study also uncovered structural features that set CMT2 apart. Notably, the enzyme has a flexible N-terminal region that influences its protein stability, a characteristic that may have helped plants adapt to various environmental conditions.&nbsp;



“This is one of the ways plants evolved for genome stability and to fight environmental stresses,” Zhong explained. This structural adaptation has likely allowed plants equipped with CMT2 to thrive in diverse climates across the globe.



A significant portion of the data for this study came from the <a href="https://1001genomes.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1001 Genomes Project</a>, which maps the genetic diversity of A. thaliana strains worldwide. 



By exploring samples from plants in the wild rather than just laboratory specimens, the researchers gained insights into how DNA methylation contributes to plants’ natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-ecosystem-stability-threatened-by-declining-plant-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jumping-genes-and-plant-adaptation">Jumping genes and plant adaptation</h2>



The study also highlights the adaptive potential of transposons, or “jumping genes,” in plant DNA. These mobile sequences are often silenced by methylation to maintain genomic stability, but their occasional movement can aid in environmental adaptation.&nbsp;



“One jump might help species deal with harsh environmental conditions,” Zhong said, explaining how these genetic shifts could help plants survive in challenging environments.



As plants navigate unpredictable climates, the diversification enabled by DNA methylation - particularly through enzymes like CMT3 and CMT2 - can provide the flexibility needed to withstand stressors like extreme temperatures and limited water availability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-for-crop-resilience">Future implications for crop resilience</h2>



Understanding how CMT enzymes contribute to plant resilience opens exciting possibilities for agriculture.&nbsp;



By precisely targeting the genes and methylation processes responsible for drought tolerance, heat resistance, or other resilience traits, scientists could enhance crops’ ability to thrive under changing climate conditions.&nbsp;



“If we find precisely how they are regulated, then we can find a way to innovate our technology for crop improvement,” Zhong explained.



As the world faces growing agricultural challenges, insights into the DNA methylation processes that strengthen plants can provide a foundation for developing crops capable of withstanding increasingly severe environmental pressures.&nbsp;



This research marks a step forward in harnessing plants’ genetic systems to create resilient agricultural ecosystems, offering a promising path to sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-infections-are-threatening-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a> in the face of climate change.



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Plants use DNA duplication to increase their resilience 

A team of biologists has recently revealed the origins of...

The fossilized remains of a giant "terror bird," recently discovered in the sandy landscapes of South America's Tatacoa Desert, tells the story of a formidable predator from the Phorusrhacid family.



A new study focuses on these giant, meat-eating predators, providing remarkable insights into the diverse wildlife that roamed the world in very ancient times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-phorusrhacid-s">What are Phorusrhacids?</h2>



Phorusrhacid birds, better known as "terror birds," were some of the most impressive predators to ever walk the Earth. These flightless birds lived in South America from about 60 million to 2 million years ago. 



Standing up to 10 feet tall, they had massive, hooked beaks and really strong legs built for running, Basically, they were the top predators of their time.



Terror birds dominated their environment by hunting small to medium-sized animals. They could sprint at high speeds to chase down prey, using their powerful beaks to deliver lethal strikes. 



Some scientists believe they might have even hunted in packs, although that's still up for debate. Their reign lasted for millions of years, filling the gap left by the dinosaurs' extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leg-bone-of-an-ancient-phorusrhacid">Leg bone of an ancient Phorusrhacid</h2>



At the center of this fascinating narrative is a leg bone. This relic from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-site-in-australia-indicates-abundant-life-during-the-miocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miocene</a> epoch, a period dating back around 12 million years, holds within it stories about the ancient birds of prey that roamed the continent.



Dr. Siobhán Cooke is an associate professor of functional anatomy and evolution at the <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> School of Medicine. 



He noted that the size of the bone indicates that this terror bird may be the largest known member of the species identified to date, approximately 5 to 20 percent larger than known Phorusrhacids.



The bone's physical attributes provide an intriguing subplot. It contains deep pits peculiar to Phorusrhacids and potential teeth marks of a prehistoric caiman, Purussaurus.



The physical evidence seems to point to a fatal altercation with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/differences-in-the-mammalian-and-reptilian-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptilian</a> adversary. 



"We suspect that the terror bird would have died as a result of its injuries given the size of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-remains-shed-new-light-on-crocodilian-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodilians</a> 12 million years ago," said Dr. Cooke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-phorusrhacid-terror-birds">Distribution of Phorusrhacid terror birds</h2>



The unearthed fossil, found as far north as Colombia, expands our understanding of the geography of terror birds, which have been primarily associated with Argentina and Uruguay.



The research hints at a diverse and thriving ecosystem, markedly different from the landscapes we see now.



This ancient environment, now a desert, was home to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>, hoofed mammals, gigantic ground sloths, glyptodonts (essentially, gigantic armadillos the size of cars), and terror birds.



The seriema, a modern long-legged bird native to South America, is considered a distant relative of Phorusrhacids.



"It’s a different kind of ecosystem than we see today or in other parts of the world during a period before South and North America were connected," noted Dr. Cooke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-phorusrhacid-terror-birds">Studying Phorusrhacid terror birds</h2>



The discovery opens a window of possibility that additional fossils of terror birds may lie unidentified in museum archives.



"It’s possible there are fossils in existing collections that haven’t been recognized yet as terror birds because the bones are less diagnostic than the lower leg bone we found," said Dr. Cooke.



The fossil also prompts us to envision an environment now lost to time, populated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elusive-bird-night-parrot-pezoporus-occidentalis-thought-to-be-long-extinct-rediscovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-extinct</a> creatures that once dominated the fauna. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/terror-bird_Phorusrhacid_leg-bone_tibiotarsus_credit-Degrange_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/terror-bird_Phorusrhacid_leg-bone_tibiotarsus_credit-Degrange_1s.webp" alt="The end of a terror bird's left tibiotarsus, a lower leg bone in birds equivalent to that of a human tibia or shin bone, dates back to the Miocene epoch around 12 million years ago. Credit: Degrange et al." class="wp-image-1949728"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The end of a terror bird's left tibiotarsus, a lower leg bone in birds equivalent to that of a human tibia or shin bone, dates back to the Miocene epoch around 12 million years ago. Credit: Degrange et al.</figcaption></figure>



"It would have been a fascinating place to walk around and see all of these now extinct animals," noted Dr. Cooke.



This remarkable find, the first of its kind from the site, is a tribute to the rich biodiversity that once adorned our planet. 



It nudges us to view the past through a lens of awe and curiosity, and to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the life forms that populated Earth millions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-terror-bird-s-legacy">The terror bird’s legacy</h2>



The discovery of this massive terror bird sheds light not only on ancient ecosystems but also on the evolutionary story of apex predators. 



The physical characteristics of this bird - its powerful leg bones and sharp beak -- highlight the specialized adaptations that allowed it to thrive in its environment.



These adaptations may have provided the terror bird with the speed and agility to hunt effectively, filling a predatory role in the food chain much like large cats or raptors do today. 



By understanding the terror bird’s evolution, researchers hope to uncover insights into how apex predators adapt to environmental shifts, contributing valuable knowledge to evolutionary biology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-discoveries-on-the-horizon">Fossil discoveries on the horizon</h2>



This fossil, potentially one of the largest known of its kind, also serves as a reminder that more discoveries await in the Tatacoa Desert and beyond.



While Colombia is not typically recognized as a hotbed of fossil discovery compared to regions like Argentina or North America, recent findings like this highlight its hidden potential.



Paleontologists are hopeful that ongoing exploration of South American sites will yield further specimens, expanding our understanding of Miocene-era ecosystems. 



This research, along with improved fossil identification techniques, may pave the way for unearthing additional terror bird remains, helping scientists reconstruct the behaviors, habitats, and interactions of these ancient predators.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/spp2.1601" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palaeontology</a>.



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New 'terror bird' species ate meat and dominated the planet

The fossilized remains of a giant "terror bird," recently discovered...

Just when you thought you'd heard it all about the benefits of exercise, a study emerges that further endorses the power of physical activity.



The research suggests that adding just a short burst of physical activity - such as uphill walking or climbing stairs - into your daily schedule might just be the secret elixir to reducing your blood pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-activity-and-blood-pressure">Physical activity and blood pressure </h2>



The study was conducted by a team of experts from the ProPASS (Prospective Physical Activity, Sitting and Sleep) Consortium, steered by the University of Sydney and University College London (UCL).



The findings offer a fresh perspective on how we could potentially manage blood pressure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-over-2000-genetic-markers-that-affect-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issues</a>.



The study revealed that as little as five minutes of moderate activity daily could potentially help reduce blood pressure levels. 



The researchers also found that replacing about 20-27 minutes of sedentary time with exercise such as walking, running, and cycling could also play a significant role in reducing blood pressure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adding-exercise-to-daily-life">Adding exercise to daily life</h2>



“High blood pressure is one of the biggest health issues globally, but unlike some major causes of cardiovascular mortality there may be relatively accessible ways to tackle the problem in addition to medication,” said joint senior author&nbsp;Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis,&nbsp;director of the ProPASS Consortium from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/charles-perkins-centre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Perkins Centre</a>.&nbsp;



“The finding that doing as little as five extra minutes of exercise per day could be associated with measurably lower blood pressure readings emphasises how powerful short bouts of higher intensity movement could be for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-from-plastic-bottles-raises-your-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure management</a>.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-blood-pressure-levels">Managing blood pressure levels</h2>



Hypertension, or consistently elevated blood pressure, remains one of the primary causes of premature death worldwide.



With nearly 1.28 billion adults affected globally, hypertension can lead to devastating health implications such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney damage.



Often tagged as the "silent killer" due to the absence of visible symptoms, managing blood pressure levels evidently demands our urgent attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-pressure-after-exercise">Blood pressure after exercise</h2>



The research team analyzed health information from 14,761 volunteers across five countries. They aimed to examine how swapping one type of movement behavior with another over the day could influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blood pressure</a> levels.



To ensure accuracy, each participant used a wearable accelerometer device on their thigh. This device kept track of their activity levels and blood pressure throughout day and night. 



The team divided daily activity into six distinct categories: sleep, sedentary behavior (such as sitting), slow walking, fast walking, standing, and more vigorous exercise such as running, cycling or stair climbing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-every-step-counts">Every step counts</h2>



Based on the data, the team realized that switching sedentary behavior with 20-27 minutes of physical activity daily could potentially slash the risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as 28 percent at a population level.



“Our findings suggest that, for most people, exercise is key to reducing blood pressure, rather than less strenuous forms of movement such as walking," said first author&nbsp;Dr. Jo Blodgett&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Division of Surgery and Interventional Science</a>&nbsp;at UCL and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iseh.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health</a>.



“The good news is that whatever your physical ability, it doesn’t take long to have a positive effect on blood pressure. What’s unique about our exercise variable is that it includes all exercise-like activities, from running for a bus or a short cycling errand, many of which can be integrated into daily routines."



Dr. Blodgett noted that for those who don’t do a lot of exercise, walking still had some positive benefits for blood pressure. "But if you want to change your blood pressure, putting more demand on the cardiovascular system through exercise will have the greatest effect.”&nbsp;



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



Integrating physical activity into one's routine does not have to be a daunting task. This study highlights that even minor modifications to daily habits can foster meaningful health improvements.



For instance, opting for the stairs instead of the elevator or a brisk walk during lunch breaks can accumulate significant health benefits over time. 



Such changes are not only practical but provide an accessible and engaging approach to managing health, promoting a proactive stance toward reducing hypertension risks. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-blood-pressure-with-exercise">Managing blood pressure with exercise</h2>



The implications of this research extend beyond individual action, hinting at a potential shift in public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-blood-pressure-can-be-detected-in-voice-recordings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health strategies</a>. 



Encouraging urban planning that incorporates more walkable spaces, investing in community fitness programs, and raising public awareness about the benefits of integrating activity into daily life could positively influence public health.



Policymakers may consider these findings as a call to implement initiatives that promote environments conducive to physical activity. 



Such measures align not only with health benefits but also with sustainability goals, fostering healthier lifestyles in conjunction with environmental stewardship.



The key takeaway? Incorporating more physically demanding activities in your daily life can have the greatest effect on your blood pressure. It doesn’t matter if you are running for a bus or cycling to the nearby grocery store - every bit of effort counts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.069820" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Circulation</a>.



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Just 5 minutes of daily exercise can lower blood pressure

Just when you thought you'd heard it all about the...

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Today’s Video of the Day comes from the <a href="http://www.earlham.ac.uk/">Earlham Institute</a> and features a look at how biodiversity could help the economy of Colombia. Efforts to improve and expand biodiversity are being spearheaded by a partnership called BRIDGE Columbia, which stands for Biodiversity, Responsibility, Innovation, Development, Growth, and Education.
  &#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a>
Credit: <a href="http://www.earlham.ac.uk/">Earlham Institute</a>

How biodiversity could help the economy of Colombia