<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features thick haze over Thailand during the fire season. The photograph was captured on March 16, 2024 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi NPP satellite.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waves-of-smoke-and-haze">Waves of smoke and haze</h2>



<p>"Each year in January and February, satellites begin to detect waves of smoke and fire in Southeast Asia, particularly in highland forests in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/intense-fire-season-in-mexico-is-part-of-a-worldwide-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fire activity</a> continues to increase through March and April, reaches a peak during the height of the dry season, and then fades in May with the start of the rainy season," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"Individual fires are usually small and short-lived. But they are often so numerous that smoke, along with air pollution from rural and urban areas, mixes to produce thick layers of haze that blanket the landscape." </p>



<p>According to NASA, the haze contains mixtures of small airborne particles called aerosols and gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone that degrade air quality.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-in-thailand-nbsp">Haze in Thailand&nbsp;</h2>



<p>An international field campaign - the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) - was launched to investigate the haze in Thailand.</p>



<p>"During the last two weeks of March 2024, NASA’s DC-8 and Gulfstream III aircraft flew several flights over Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and rural areas surrounding the cities to sample air quality with several sensors. At the same time, satellites observed the haze from above," said NASA.</p>



<p>James Crawford, ASIA-AQ’s principal investigator, said the team is collaborating closely with national and local government entities in Thailand.</p>



<p>“The goal is to take as many simultaneous measurements of pollutants as possible from the ground, air, and space,” said Crawford. The team will use the data to gain a better understanding of how the haze forms, evolves chemically over time, and moves throughout the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-and-public-health-in-thailand">Haze and public health in Thailand </h2>



<p>According to media reports, nearly 200,000 people have been hospitalized this year due to air quality in the region, with over 1.3 million people falling ill since January.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes-of-the-haze">Causes of the haze</h3>



<p>The root causes of the haze include agricultural burning, particularly of corn fields, as part of slash-and-burn practices to prepare land for the next planting cycle. This is exacerbated by the dry season when there's little rain to wash the pollutants away. </p>



<p>The situation is worsened by industrial emissions and vehicle fumes, particularly in urban areas like Bangkok​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-are-needed">Sustainable solutions are needed</h3>



<p>Efforts to address the crisis have been complex, involving local and transboundary issues. Much of the agricultural burning occurs not only within Thailand but also in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos, contributing to the transboundary nature of the haze. </p>



<p>Activists and local communities have called for sustainable solutions that do not exacerbate the poverty of smallholder farmers, emphasizing the need for affordable and realistic alternatives to burning​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-measures-nbsp">Mitigation measures&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Thai government has implemented a no-burning rule until the end of April to combat wildfires and haze, but enforcement and effectiveness remain challenges​​. </p>



<p>Some measures taken to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution in urban areas include spraying water and seeding clouds to encourage rain, although these have had limited success​​.</p>



<p>This ongoing environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are increasingly using public interest litigation to hold companies and the government accountable for environmental commitments. </p>



<p>With recent political changes, there is hope that the new administration will take more decisive action against the haze, possibly through more stringent regulations and international cooperation​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-haze">Health impacts of haze</h2>



<p>Haze poses several health hazards for those exposed to it, particularly when it contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Here are some of the main health risks associated with exposure to haze:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiratory-problems">Respiratory problems</h3>



<p>Haze can aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The fine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">particles</a> can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and reducing lung function.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-issues-and-haze">Cardiovascular issues and haze</h3>



<p>Exposure to fine particulate matter can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Particles can affect blood vessel function and promote the formation of blood clots.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-irritation">Eye irritation</h3>



<p>Haze can cause eye irritation, leading to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or exacerbated symptoms in people with existing eye conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-problems">Skin problems</h3>



<p>For some people, exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">polluted air</a> can cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-immune-function">Reduced immune function</h3>



<p>There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-mental-health">Impact on mental health</h3>



<p>There are growing concerns about the impact of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-multiple-chronic-health-conditions/">mental health</a>, with studies suggesting a link between exposure to polluted air and an increased risk of depression and anxiety.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnant-women-and-children">Pregnant women and children</h3>



<p>Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. There may be increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies, and children may experience delayed development and reduced lung function.</p>



<p>The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Webb Images features an extraordinary view of Uranus, the seventh planet from the sun in our solar system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The photo reveals the rings, moons, and extreme seasons of the ice giant Uranus in unprecedented detail.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-north-polar-cap-nbsp">Dynamic north polar cap&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“The Webb image exquisitely captures Uranus’s seasonal north polar cap, including the bright, white, inner cap and the dark lane in the bottom of the polar cap,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>Unlike Earth, where polar ice caps are formed by the freezing of water, Uranus's polar caps are thought to be primarily composed of a dense concentration of haze in the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The polar cap's haze is likely composed of methane particles. Methane in Uranus's atmosphere condenses into ice particles, which then create a thick haze that scatters sunlight, giving the polar cap its distinct bright appearance in visible and infrared light.</p>



<p>The polar cap is dynamic and changes over time. It becomes more prominent during the summer season of each pole. </p>



<p>As Uranus moves along its orbit, the cap's appearance transforms, with the haze becoming thicker and brighter when the pole is in continuous sunlight.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-zeta-ring-nbsp">The Zeta ring&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The inner and outer rings of Uranus are visible in the image, including Zeta - the innermost ring which is the faintest and most difficult to observe.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-photo-of-uranus-and-its-rings-and-moons-captured-by-the-webb-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rings of Uranus</a> are primarily composed of narrow bands of particles, likely made of water ice mixed with a dark material. These rings are distinct from those of Saturn in that they are much darker and narrower.</p>



<p>The faintness and characteristics of the Zeta ring make it a subject of interest in studies related to the dynamics and composition of planetary ring systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moons-of-uranus-nbsp">Moons of Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/multimedia/images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> photo also features nine of the planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-four-uranus-moons-may-have-oceans-that-are-miles-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons</a>, which appear as blue dots surrounding the rings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Clockwise starting at 2 o’clock, they are: Rosalind, Puck, Belinda, Desdemona, Cressida, Bianca, Portia, Juliet, and Perdita. The orbits of these moons share the 98-degree tilt of their parent planet relative to the plane of the solar system,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>Uranus has 27 known moons, and they are divided into three main groups based on their orbits: the inner moons, the major moons, and the irregular moons.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-moon-ariel-may-have-a-hidden-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons</a> of Uranus are unique because they are named after characters from the works of William Shakespeare and Alexander Pope, rather than being named after figures from classical mythology, as is common for the moons of other planets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ice-giant-uranus-nbsp">The ice giant Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Uranus is classified as an "ice giant" because, unlike the gas giants Jupiter and Saturn, which are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, Uranus has a significant proportion of "ices" in its composition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In astronomical terms, ices refer to volatile substances like water, ammonia, and methane, which exist in solid or liquid forms at the low temperatures found in the outer solar system.</p>



<p>Uranus has a thick atmosphere of hydrogen and helium, but beneath that, it contains a large, dense mantle composed of these ices, along with rock and other heavier elements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diamond-rain-may-be-common-on-giant-icy-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice giant</a> differentiates Uranus (and Neptune, the other ice giant) from the larger gas giants, emphasizing the different chemical compositions and internal structures of these planets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-uranus-nbsp">Climate of Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Uranus has a unique and extreme climate, largely influenced by its unusual tilt, which causes the planet to rotate almost on its side. This tilt leads to extreme seasonal variations, with each pole experiencing 42 years of continuous sunlight followed by 42 years of darkness.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even though it is closer to the sun than Neptune, Uranus is the coldest planet in the solar system, with temperatures plunging to as low as -224°C (-371°F). The reason for this is not fully understood, but it might be due to an internal heat distribution anomaly.</p>



<p>Despite these frigid conditions, Uranus experiences intense weather patterns, including powerful storms and winds that can reach speeds of up to 900 kilometers per hour. These winds blow in the same direction as the planet’s rotation and are some of the fastest in the solar system.</p>



<p>Storms on Uranus are driven by its internal heat and the interaction of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-is-more-gassy-less-icy-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric gases</a>. Observations have shown that these storms can be quite large, sometimes comparable in size to the Earth, and can last for several years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The planet’s extreme axial tilt also means that the storms and weather patterns are highly variable, depending on the season. During equinoxes, when the Sun is directly over the equator, Uranus exhibits more storm activity compared to when the poles are pointed towards the Sun or away from it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-uranus">Observations of Uranus</h2>



<p>“One day on Uranus is about 17 hours, so the planet’s rotation is relatively quick. This makes it supremely difficult for observatories with a sharp eye like Webb to capture one simple image of the entire planet - storms and other atmospheric features, and the planet’s moons, move visibly within minutes,” explained NASA.</p>



<p>“This image combines several longer and shorter exposures of this dynamic system to correct for those slight changes throughout the observing time.”</p>



<p>The first recorded observations of Uranus were made by John Flamsteed on December 13, 1690. However, Flamsteed mistakenly identified the planet as a star, which he named “34 Tauri."&nbsp;</p>



<p>It wasn't until March 13, 1781, that Uranus was officially identified as a planet by William Herschel. He initially thought he had discovered a comet, but further observations and calculations by other astronomers confirmed that it was a new planet, making Uranus the first planet discovered in modern history with the aid of a telescope.</p>



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



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The ice giant Uranus in stunning detail

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Webb Images features...

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a strong extratropical cyclone, which struck the Pacific Northwest on November 19, 2024.</p>



<p>“The storm knocked over trees and left nearly 600,000 people without power in Washington state on November 20, according to news reports,” noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fearthobservatory.nasa.gov%2Fimages%2F153605%2Fextratropical-cyclone-whips-over-the-pacific-northwest&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “This image shows the storm system at 1:50 p.m. Pacific Time on November 19.” </p>



<p>According to NASA, mature extratropical cyclones like this often feature comma-shaped cloud patterns that are the product of ‘conveyor belt’ circulation. “Heavy precipitation is often present near the low-pressure head of the comma.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-extratropical-cyclone-nbsp">Impacts of the extratropical cyclone&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The “bomb cyclone” brought <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhow-much-does-climate-change-influence-extreme-weather-events%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe weather</a>, including strong winds exceeding 70 mph, heavy rainfall, and snow in higher elevations. These conditions led to significant disruptions, including downed trees and hazardous travel conditions.</p>



<p>In urban and rural areas, damage to infrastructure and properties was substantial, with emergency responders and utility crews working around the clock to restore services.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, mountain passes faced dangerous blizzard conditions, with up to 20 inches of snow accumulating in some areas, severely affecting travel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-pace-of-acceleration">Rapid pace of acceleration</h2>



<p>Chris Dolce is a meteorologist at The Weather Channel. He noted that on the evening of November 19, the storm’s central pressure dropped to levels on par with a storm in October 2021, which saw the lowest pressure in about 50 years of records for that region.</p>



<p>“The pace of the storm’s intensification was more than double the criteria for bombogenesis - a popular term that describes a midlatitude cyclone that rapidly intensifies into a ‘bomb cyclone,’” said NASA.</p>



<p>The rapidly dropping atmospheric pressure at the center of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fcoastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storm</a> caused winds to intensify quickly. According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, wind gusts reached up to 77 miles per hour in the mountains southeast of the city.</p>



<p>“The cyclone kicked off a long-duration atmospheric river that forecasters expect will park over Northern California and southern Oregon through November 22. The National Weather Service estimates that these areas could see rainfall totals of 12 to 16 inches over the duration of the storm,” noted NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-an-extratropical-cyclone">What is an extratropical cyclone?</h2>



<p>An extratropical cyclone is a large-scale weather system that forms outside the tropics, typically between 30° and 60° latitude, and is associated with areas of low pressure.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-source">Energy source</h3>



<p>These cyclones obtain their energy from the contrast in temperature between air masses, such as cold polar air and warm subtropical air. This contrast creates instability and drives atmospheric circulation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development-of-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Development of extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Extratropical cyclones usually have well-defined warm and cold fronts. They often develop along the polar front, where cold and warm air masses meet.</p>



<p>A common area for their development is the mid-latitudes, particularly in regions like the North Atlantic and North Pacific.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-conditions">Weather conditions</h3>



<p>Extratropical cyclones can bring a variety of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhuman-activity-is-rapidly-changing-weather-in-north-america%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather conditions</a>, including heavy rain, snow, strong winds, and severe storms. They are responsible for much of the day-to-day weather in mid-latitude regions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-vs-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Tropical vs. extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



<p>While <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Ffast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical cyclones</a> derive energy from warm ocean waters and have a warm core, extratropical cyclones gain energy from temperature contrasts and have a cold core.</p>



<p>Tropical cyclones typically lack fronts, whereas extratropical cyclones are defined by them.</p>



<p>These systems are essential in distributing heat and energy across the planet, playing a critical role in the Earth's climate system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caught-off-guard-by-the-weather">Caught off guard by the weather</h2>



<p>The bomb cyclone in the Pacific Northwest highlights the importance of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fnew-era-in-forecasting-ai-will-improve-extreme-weather-warnings%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparedness</a>, as residents were urged to secure loose outdoor items, stock emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel.</p>



<p>The fire department in Bellevue, east of Seattle, posted a Severe Weather Safety alert on Facebook: “It’s severe out there. Trees are coming down all over the city, with multiple falling onto homes. If you are able, head to the lowest floor you can and stay away from windows. Do not go outside if you can avoid it.”</p>



<p>The image was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on NOAA’s JPSS-1 (Joint Polar Satellite System-1).</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Bomb cyclone rapidly intensified in the Pacific Northwest

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located around 35 million light-years away in the little-observed southern constellation Reticulum. The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fuel-for-star-formation">Fuel for star formation </h2>



<p>"The data featured in this portrait make use of two of Webb’s instruments: the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) and Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam)," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"Here MIRI captures the glow of interstellar dust grains, which trace out the interstellar medium, the fuel for future star formation. NIRCam shows the light from stars, even young stars hidden behind prodigious amounts of dust. NIRCam also captures emission from ionised nebulae around young stars."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-reveals-galaxies-in-new-light">Webb reveals galaxies in new light</h2>



<p>According to ESA, the data was collected by the <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/phangs/home">PHANGS team</a> as part of a program in which Webb will observe 55 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a> that have also been mapped by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) radio telescope, the Hubble Space Telescope, and more.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"By combining Webb’s unprecedented view of the dust and stars with data from these other facilities, the team aims to obtain a new, highly detailed view of how stars are born, live, and die in galaxies across the Universe."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-1559-a-loner-in-space">NGC 1559: A loner in space</h2>



<p>Although NGC 1559 appears to sit close to one of our nearest neighbors in the sky - the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) - this is just a trick of perspective, noted ESA.</p>



<p>While it is part of the Reticulum constellation, NGC 1559 is not part of the Local Group of galaxies but instead resides in a more distant region of space.</p>



<p>"In reality, NGC 1559 is physically nowhere near the LMC in space; in fact it truly is a loner, lacking the company of any nearby galaxies or membership of any galaxy cluster."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1559">Star formation in NGC 1559</h2>



<p>NGC 1559 is notable for its active star formation and strong magnetic fields. It has also been the site of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, making it of particular interest to astronomers studying stellar evolution and the lifecycle of stars.</p>



<p>The structure of NGC 1559 includes well-defined spiral arms that are rich in young, hot stars and regions of ionized gas, indicative of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.</p>



<p>The galaxy’s central bar is believed to play a role in driving gas towards the core, fueling both the star formation and the activity around its nucleus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-extragalactic-wonder">An extragalactic wonder</h2>



<p>Despite being relatively small compared to larger galaxies like the Milky Way, NGC 1559 is an important object for understanding how barred spiral galaxies evolve and the processes that trigger supernovae.</p>



<p>The galaxy’s remote location and active nature make it a fascinating subject of study in the field of extragalactic astronomy. The isolation of NGC 1559 allows for a clearer view of its structure without much interference from neighboring galaxies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxies">Barred spiral galaxies</h2>



<p>Barred spiral galaxies are a type of spiral galaxy characterized by a central bar-shaped structure composed of stars. This bar extends out from the core and connects to the galaxy's spiral arms, which swirl outward in a graceful pattern.</p>



<p>Scientists believe that the bar plays a crucial role in the evolution of the galaxy, funneling gas towards the core and potentially triggering star formation or feeding a central black hole. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our own galaxy, is an example of a barred spiral. These galaxies are quite common in the universe, making up about two-thirds of all observed spiral galaxies.</p>



<p>The bar itself is thought to be a temporary feature, developing as the galaxy matures and possibly disappearing over time as the dynamics of the stars change. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reticulum-constellation">The Reticulum constellation</h2>



<p>The Reticulum constellation is a small, faint constellation in the southern sky. Its name means "the reticle" in Latin, which refers to the crosshairs in an eyepiece of a telescope. </p>



<p>The constellation was named in the 18th century by the French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille to honor the reticle he used in his scientific instruments. It is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, A. Leroy, J. Lee and the PHANGS Team</p>



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Spiral galaxy NGC 1559 is a loner in outer space

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features NGC 1792, a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Columba, about 43 million light-years away from Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This galaxy, discovered by British astronomer James Dunlop in 1826, is part of the larger NGC 1808 group of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intimate-view-of-ngc-1792">Intimate view of NGC 1792</h2>



<p>“An orange glow radiates from the center of NGC 1792, the heart of this stellar forge. Captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, this intimate view of NGC 1792 gives us some insight into this galactic powerhouse,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“The vast swathes of tell-tale blue seen throughout the galaxy indicate areas that are full of young, hot stars, and it is in the shades of orange, seen nearer the center, that the older, cooler stars reside.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vigorous-star-formation-nbsp">Vigorous star formation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>NGC 1792 is notable for its vigorous star formation, classifying it as a starburst galaxy. This high rate of star formation is thought to be triggered by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies, though the exact cause is still under study.</p>



<p>“Nestled in the constellation of Columba (The Dove), NGC 1792 is both a spiral galaxy, and a starburst galaxy,” said ESA. “Within starburst galaxies, stars are forming at comparatively exorbitant rates. The rate of star formation can be more than 10 times faster in a starburst galaxy than in the Milky Way.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fierce-bursts-of-star-formation">Fierce bursts of star formation</h2>



<p>ESA noted that when galaxies have a large reservoir of gas, like NGC 1792, these short-lived starburst phases can be sparked by galactic events such as mergers and tidal interactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“One might think that these starburst galaxies would easily consume all of their gas in a large forming event. However, supernova explosions and intense stellar winds produced in these powerful starbursts can inject energy into the gas and disperse it.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This halts the star formation before it can completely deplete the galaxy of all its fuel. Scientists are actively working to understand this complex interplay between the dynamics that drive and quench these fierce bursts of star formation.”</p>



<p>Due to its distance and brightness, NGC 1792 can be observed with medium-sized telescopes under favorable conditions.</p>



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



<p>Galaxy evolution refers to the process by which galaxies form and change over time. It begins in the early universe, shortly after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-observations-disprove-big-bang-theory-universe-began-tired-light-theory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Bang</a>, when small density fluctuations in the primordial gas led to the collapse of matter into the first galaxies. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-mergers">Galaxy mergers</h3>



<p>These early galaxies were small and irregular, composed mostly of gas and dark matter. Over billions of years, galaxies grew larger by merging with one another and by accreting gas from the surrounding space.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These interactions often triggered bursts of star formation, and collisions between galaxies sometimes led to the creation of new, more massive galaxies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structural-changes">Structural changes</h3>



<p>As galaxies evolve, their morphology - their shape and structure - can change. Early galaxies were often irregular or disk-shaped, but over time, many galaxies formed into the elliptical or spiral shapes we see today.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Star formation is a key driver of galaxy evolution, but it gradually slows down as galaxies age. </p>



<p>The gas that fuels <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> can be used up, or it can be heated and pushed out of galaxies by supernovae or black holes, reducing the galaxy's ability to form new stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-environment-nbsp">Galaxy environment&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The environment in which a galaxy resides also plays a role in its evolution. Galaxies in dense clusters are more likely to interact with their neighbors, which can alter their shape or trigger bursts of star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, galaxies in more isolated regions of space evolve more slowly and without as many dramatic interactions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter">Dark matter</h3>



<p>Dark matter also plays a crucial role in galaxy evolution. It provides the gravitational framework that holds galaxies together and influences their interactions with one another.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Galaxies%20merge&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, found at the centers of most large galaxies, can also affect their evolution by releasing energy that impacts star formation and the movement of gas within the galaxy.</p>



<p>Overall, galaxy evolution is a complex and ongoing process driven by interactions between stars, gas, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>, and black holes, and shaped by both internal processes and external influences.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>:</strong> ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA, J. Lee</p>



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NGC 1792: A galactic powerhouse 

<p>The Phlegraean Fields, now considered one massive supervolcano, are beginning to stir, making the scientific community uneasy. </p>



<p>These volcanic fields, nestled just west of Naples, Italy, are among the top eight emitters of volcanic carbon dioxide worldwide. </p>



<p>Since 2005, one spot in particular -- the Solfatara crater -- has been releasing increased volumes of gas, catching the attention of researchers and locals alike.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gas-emissions-at-solfatara-crater">Gas emissions at Solfatara crater</h2>



<p>Gianmarco Buono, a volcanologist at the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (<a href="https://www.ingv.it/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INGV</a>), is leading a study to understand what's behind this surge in gas emissions. </p>



<p>"Estimating the source of the carbon dioxide is important to properly reconstruct what is happening in the magmatic system and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/knipovich-ridge-new-hydrothermal-field-arctic-intense-geological-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal system</a>," says Buono. </p>



<p>His team aims to provide a tool that can distinguish between carbon dioxide coming from magma and that released by other processes, a method that could be useful in volcanic regions around the world.</p>



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



<p>In the simplest of terms, a supervolcano is essentially a volcano on steroids. It's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-early-humans-survived-the-eruption-of-toba-supervolcano/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive volcanic system</a> capable of producing eruptions thousands of times more powerful than a regular volcano. </p>



<p>These eruptions can eject more than 1,000 cubic kilometers of material into the atmosphere, which can have catastrophic effects on the global climate and environment.</p>



<p>You've probably heard of places like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-tourism-generates-over-1-megaton-carbon-annually/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone National Park</a> in the United States -- that's one of the most famous supervolcanoes. </p>



<p>When a supervolcano erupts it can form a giant caldera, which is a huge crater that can span dozens of miles. </p>



<p>The sheer scale of these eruptions makes them rare, but they're definitely something scientists keep an eye on due to their potential impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-supervolcano-holds-a-surprising-amount-of-magma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life across the planet</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-numbers-speak-volumes">Numbers speak volumes</h2>



<p>Today, the Solfatara crater emits between 4,000 and 5,000 tons of carbon dioxide each day. To put that into perspective, that's equivalent to the emissions from burning about 500,000 gallons of gasoline daily. </p>



<p>In their recent paper published in <em>Geology</em>, Buono and his colleagues estimate that 20% to 40% of this carbon dioxide comes from the dissolution of calcite in the surrounding rocks. The remaining 60% to 80% is traced back to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-affects-magma-formation-deep-within-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underground magma</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-solfatara-crater-gas">Science behind the Solfatara crater gas</h2>



<p>When magma moves <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closer to the Earth's surface</a>, the pressure decreases, causing gases that were trapped inside to escape. These gases include water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. </p>



<p>Scientists keep a close eye on volcanoes by monitoring earthquakes, measuring ground deformation, and analyzing gases emitted from fumaroles -- openings in the Earth's crust that release steam and gases.</p>



<p>An uptick in gas emissions can be a sign of potential volcanic activity. However, not every increase leads to an eruption. </p>



<p>Sometimes, carbon dioxide is released when hot underground fluids interact with the rocks above, rather than from magma itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes-over-decades">Monitoring changes over decades</h2>



<p>Since 1983, the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology has been keeping tabs on the gas emissions from the Solfatara crater. </p>



<p>By studying the ratios of nitrogen, helium, and carbon dioxide, researchers had initially concluded that the gases were primarily from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-affects-magma-formation-deep-within-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep magma sources</a>. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Phlegraean-fields_supervolcano_caldera_satellite-view_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Phlegraean-fields_supervolcano_caldera_satellite-view_1s.webp" alt="Satellite view of Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater showing a large caldera supervolcano west of Naples, Italy. It is part of the Campanian volcanic arc, which includes Mount Vesuvius." class="wp-image-1951186"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Satellite view of Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater showing a large caldera supervolcano west of Naples, Italy. It is part of the Campanian volcanic arc, which includes Mount Vesuvius.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"We focused mainly on geochemical variation, especially for carbon dioxide, helium, and nitrogen, because they are non-reactive species. They contain information about what is happening in the magma," Buono explains.</p>



<p>But things started to change in 2005. The data began to deviate from the typical chemical signatures of magma-derived gases. This shift continued over time, accompanied by rising temperatures in the shallow hydrothermal system. </p>



<p>By 2012, the alert level for the region was raised from green to yellow, signaling heightened activity but not an immediate threat of eruption.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-the-earth-s-movements">Clues from the Earth's movements</h2>



<p>The area didn't just experience changes underground. Small earthquakes and noticeable ground deformation were also observed. </p>



<p>These signs pointed toward the circulation of hot fluids <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beneath the surface</a>. When these hot, acidic fluids interact with calcite in the rocks, they can release additional carbon dioxide.</p>



<p>Previous studies involving drill cores of the local rocks revealed that the calcite present has a composition similar to the gases being emitted. </p>



<p>Based on this information, Buono's team estimated that 20% to 40% of the carbon dioxide at the Solfatara crater comes from the breakdown of calcite in the host rocks.</p>



<p>The Phlegraean Fields have a long volcanic history, with activity dating back approximately 40,000 years. The most recent eruption occurred in 1538. </p>



<p>Since the 1950s, the region has experienced several phases of unrest, reminding us that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-super-eruptions-build-up-for-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's geology is always in motion</a>.</p>



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



<p>Understanding the source of carbon dioxide emissions in volcanic regions is crucial for public safety and environmental monitoring. </p>



<p>By distinguishing between gases released from magma and those from other processes, scientists can better predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> and assess potential risks.</p>



<p>Buono's research not only sheds light on the complex interactions beneath the Phlegraean Fields but also provides tools that could be applied to other volcanic areas. </p>



<p>As he notes, "Our aim is to provide a tool to better discriminate the contribution of magmatic and non-magmatic carbon dioxide that can also be applied to other systems."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solfatara-crater-and-the-future">Solfatara crater and the future</h2>



<p>To sum it all up, figuring out what's really going on beneath the Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater is a big deal -- not just for the science buffs but for everyone living on Earth.</p>



<p>Buono's team has shown that the spike in carbon dioxide emissions isn't just magma pushing its way up. A good chunk of that gas is actually coming from hot fluids interacting with calcite-rich rocks underground. </p>



<p>This kind of info is gold because it helps us keep a closer eye on volcanic activity and, more importantly, keeps people safe.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, keeping tabs on these emissions and understanding their sources is key. By knowing whether the carbon dioxide is from magma or from rock interactions, scientists can better predict what's coming next. </p>



<p>The Phlegraean Fields are a vivid reminder that our planet is always on the move. Scientists like Buono will keep unraveling the mysteries beneath our feet, helping us understand the dynamic planet we call home.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/geology/article/51/4/397/620796/Discriminating-carbon-dioxide-sources-during" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a></em>.</p>



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Supervolcano shows signs of waking up, which would plunge the world into chaos

The Phlegraean Fields, now considered one massive supervolcano, are beginning...

<p>An international team of scientists has successfully sequenced the genome of the legendary composer, Ludwig van Beethoven, for the first time ever. </p>



<p>The scientists examined Beethoven's genes to understand his health and genetic makeup.</p>



<p>The researchers used five <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetically matching</a> locks of hair from the legendary composer for their analysis.</p>



<p>The findings reveal some interesting facts about Beethoven and open a whole new set of questions about his life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sounds-of-illness-beethoven-s-health">Sounds of illness: Beethoven's health</h2>



<p>Beethoven's health has been the subject of debate ever since he asked his doctor to publicly document his illness way back in 1802.</p>



<p>This new research, however, brings a fresh perspective, revealing previously unknown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/selfish-dna-transposons-control-early-human-development-not-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic risk</a> factors for the liver disease that likely contributed to Beethoven's death.</p>



<p>Ever wondered why Beethoven had progressive hearing loss, which made him almost deaf by 1818? Or why he had chronic gastrointestinal complaints and a severe liver disease that ultimately led to his death in 1827?</p>



<p>So have many others, and the experts set out to find answers to these questions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ailments-with-mysterious-causes">Ailments with mysterious causes</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the research team could not pinpoint a definite cause for Beethoven's hearing loss or gastrointestinal problems. </p>



<p>However, they discovered several genetic risk factors for liver disease and found evidence that Beethoven was infected with the hepatitis B virus. Coupled with his alcohol consumption, this condition may have resulted in severe liver disease.</p>



<p>According to Tristan Begg, the study's lead author from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>, Beethoven drank alcohol regularly as documented in his "conversation books."</p>



<p>"If his alcohol consumption was sufficiently heavy over a long enough period, the interaction with his genetic risk factors presents one possible explanation for his cirrhosis," said Begg.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-remain-about-genetic-causes">Questions remain about genetic causes</h2>



<p>Furthermore, the researchers did not find a straightforward genetic cause for Beethoven's hearing loss. </p>



<p>"Although a clear genetic underpinning for Beethoven’s hearing loss could not be identified, the scientists caution that such a scenario cannot be strictly ruled out," explained Dr. Axel Schmidt from the Institute of Human Genetics at the <a href="https://www.ukbonn.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Hospital of Bonn</a>.</p>



<p>In regards to Beethoven's gastrointestinal complaints, no genetic explanation was pinpointed. The researchers argue that diseases like coeliac disease and lactose intolerance are unlikely causes, based on the genomic data.</p>



<p>Beethoven was also found to have some degree of genetic protection against the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a commonly suspected cause, making this less likely.</p>



<p>"We cannot say definitely what killed Beethoven, but we can now at least confirm the presence of significant heritable risk, and an infection with hepatitis B virus," said Johannes Krause, from the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology. </p>



<p>"We can also eliminate several other less plausible genetic causes."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-for-authenticity">Testing for authenticity</h2>



<p>To ensure authenticity, the team conducted tests on eight hair samples acquired from public and private collections across the UK, Europe, and the United States.</p>



<p>In the process, they discovered that at least two of the locks did not originate from Beethoven, including a famous lock once believed to have been cut from the recently deceased composer's head by the 15-year-old musician Ferdinand Hiller.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-beethoven-s-living-relatives">Analysis of Beethoven's living relatives</h2>



<p>A particularly interesting aspect of this study involves the genetics of Beethoven’s living relatives. </p>



<p>Some of the relatives were found to share a paternal ancestor with Beethoven in the late 1500s and early 1600s based on genealogical studies, but they did not match the Y-Chromosome found in the authentic hair samples.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team concluded that this was due to the occurrence of at least one “extra-pair paternity event” - a child conceived from an extramarital relationship - in Beethoven’s direct paternal line.</p>



<p>“Through the combination of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-secret-code-called-spatial-grammar-may-rewrite-genetics-textbooks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> data and archival documents, we were able to observe a discrepancy between Ludwig van Beethoven’s legal and biological genealogy,” said genealogist Maarten Larmuseau from the KU Leuven.</p>



<p>The team hopes that by making Beethoven’s genome publicly available, further research will be encouraged, and remaining questions about his health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-evidence-reveals-new-clues-about-pompeiis-eruption-victims/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genealogy</a> could be answered.</p>



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



<p>The research team included experts from the University of Cambridge, the Beethoven Center San Jose, American Beethoven Society, KU Leuven, FamilyTreeDNA, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Beethoven-Haus Bonn, and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)00181-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.</em></p>



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Beethoven’s DNA found in his hair reveals surprising new details

An international team of scientists has successfully sequenced the genome...

<p>Sipping on a citrus soda, have you ever wondered why the flavor seemed to be evenly distributed? A secret ingredient played a big role.</p>



<p>However, after much consideration and several studies indicating potential health risks, this soda additive is nearing its end in the United States.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-banning-the-soda-additive">Banning the soda additive </h2>



<p>The Food and Drug Administration (<a href="https://www.fda.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA</a>), America's federal agency for regulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-tongue-could-revolutionize-food-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food safety</a>, has recently taken a decisive step against this controversial soda ingredient called BVO, or brominated vegetable oil.</p>



<p>After revoking the registration of BVO, this modified vegetable oil is now officially banned across the country.</p>



<p>The decision came after clear evidence of toxicity emerged from recent studies, making the continued usage of BVO untenable.</p>



<p>James Jones, FDA deputy commissioner for humans foods, announced the significant proposal.</p>



<p>"The proposed action is an example of how the agency monitors emerging evidence and, as needed, conducts scientific research to investigate safety-related questions, and takes regulatory action when the science does not support the continued safe use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-ingredients-in-u-s-foods-are-potentially-unsafe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">additives</a> in foods," noted Jones. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questioning-the-safety-of-the-soda-additive">Questioning the safety of the soda additive</h2>



<p>The story of BVO dates back to the 1930s. As an emulsifying agent, it was added to keep the citrus flavor from floating to the top of soda. </p>



<p>Animal studies have suggested that the compound may slowly accumulate in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-late-increases-hunger-and-changes-fat-tissues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fat tissues</a>, preventing iodine from performing crucial functions within our thyroid gland. </p>



<p>This led health authorities worldwide to question the emulsifier's safety.</p>



<p>In fact, BVO has already been scrapped from the ingredients list in several countries, including India, Japan, and European Union nations. </p>



<p>Even the state of California bid it farewell in October 2022, with the ban expected to be active by 2027.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-about-potential-toxicity">Concerns about potential toxicity </h2>



<p>The FDA had its reservations. In the 1950s, it considered BVO a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient. </p>



<p>This status was given to items that had either been adequately tested or to those in common use prior to 1958.</p>



<p>The perception changed in the next decade when concerns about potential toxicity arose, leading to a temporary limit on BVO usage, especially in citrus <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elevated-levels-of-toxic-metals-detected-in-popular-drinks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinks</a>.</p>



<p>Getting hard data on the long-term risks was not an easy task, hence the delay. </p>



<p>However, research in the UK during the 1970s found bromine building up in human tissues, and its high concentrations were linked to heart and behavioral issues in animals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-gras">What exactly is GRAS?</h2>



<p>Generally Recognized as Safe, or GRAS, is a designation used by the U.S. FDA to indicate that a substance added to food is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-chemicals-from-food-production-pass-into-the-human-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">considered safe</a> by experts. </p>



<p>Basically, if something is labeled as GRAS, it means that scientists and researchers agree it won’t harm you when used as intended in our food. </p>



<p>This can include everyday ingredients like salt, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-are-harmful-to-nearly-every-part-of-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">certain preservatives</a>, and natural flavorings that have been used for years without any known issues. </p>



<p>The GRAS status can be based on a long history of common use in food or on scientific evidence showing that the substance is safe.</p>



<p>Companies can declare their ingredients as GRAS either by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-tongue-could-revolutionize-food-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conducting their own research</a> or by relying on the collective knowledge of experts. They can also submit their GRAS determinations to the FDA for review, but it's not always required. </p>



<p>This system helps streamline the process of getting safe additives into the food supply without the need for lengthy approval procedures for every single ingredient. </p>



<p>Overall, GRAS plays a crucial role in ensuring that the additives in our food are safe to eat, giving consumers confidence in the products they choose.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soda-makers-move-on">Soda makers move on</h2>



<p>After several studies, the FDA is finally convinced that BVO should be banned. Companies such as PepsiCo and Coca-Cola Co. have already started the process of phasing out this ingredient from their products over the last decade.</p>



<p>"Over the years many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-are-consuming-more-sugary-drinks-than-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beverage</a> makers reformulated their products to replace BVO with an alternative ingredient, and today, few beverages in the US contain BVO," said Jones. </p>



<p>This decision could be the first of many. The FDA is currently reviewing regulations authorizing certain food additives, aiming to enhance the process and prohibit food coloring agents found to cause cancer in humans or animals.</p>



<p>The final decision on BVO's classification went through a comprehensive review process that has now come to an end. With alternatives already being used globally to keep citrus drinks tangy to the last drop, it appears the days of BVO are truly numbered.</p>



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



<p>With BVO officially banned, soda manufacturers are now turning to safer and more sustainable alternatives to maintain flavor consistency in citrus beverages. </p>



<p>Common replacements include natural stabilizers such as ester gum and sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB), which offer similar emulsifying properties without the associated health risks.</p>



<p>This shift reflects a broader trend in the beverage industry toward cleaner labels and transparency in ingredient sourcing. </p>



<p>As consumers become more health-conscious, brands are under increasing pressure to minimize the use of synthetic additives and embrace natural formulations.</p>



<p>In addition, regulatory bodies are expected to intensify their scrutiny of food and beverage ingredients, encouraging innovation in the development of safe and effective stabilizers. </p>



<p>These advancements could pave the way for a new era of beverages that prioritize both taste and health.</p>



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<p></p>

Controversial soda ingredient has finally been banned by the FDA

Sipping on a citrus soda, have you ever wondered why...

<p></p>
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<p><br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">What causes an eclipse and why is it so rare? Today’s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> comes thanks to the </span><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard"><span style="font-weight: 400;">NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and features a look at what causes an eclipse. Total eclipses are rare because the timing of the new moon within the eclipse season needs to be more exact for an alignment between the observer (on Earth) and the centers of the Sun and Moon.</span></p>
<p>Lunar and solar eclipses are caused by the relative motions (or orbits) of the Earth, Moon and Sun. The Moon orbits the Earth in roughly* the same plane as the Earth-Sun orbit meaning that the Moon occasionally passes in front of the Sun in the sky causing a solar eclipse.</p>
<p>In fact, at new Moon — the only lunar phase when a solar eclipse can occur — the Moon usually misses the Sun altogether. Given all the variables, it’s almost surprising that we see <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/total-solar-eclipse-darkens-antarctica/">eclipses</a> at all. The Moon orbits Earth; both swing around the Sun. This truly remarkable coincidence is what gives us total solar eclipses. If the Moon were slightly smaller or orbited a little farther away from Earth, it would never completely cover the solar disk.</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rory Arnold</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Source: </span></i><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center</span></i></a></p>