<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the western part of Grand Bahama, the northernmost island in the Bahamas, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Grand Bahama is known for its beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant tourism industry. The island is the fourth largest in the Bahamas and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-main-cities-of-grand-bahama-nbsp">Main cities of Grand Bahama&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Grand Bahama’s two main cities are both visible in the image: West End on the northwestern tip of the island and Freeport on the southern shore,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“West End is the oldest city on the island, and the capital. The runway of West End airport, the smaller of the two airports serving Grand Bahama, can be spotted west of the city.”</p>



<p>Freeport serves as a hub for tourism, trade, and commerce. It was developed as a free trade zone in the 1950s, which has helped drive its growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-and-climate">Geography and climate</h2>



<p>Grand Bahama is situated about 55 miles off the coast of Florida, making it one of the closest islands in the Bahamas to the United States.</p>



<p>The island has a tropical climate, with warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> year-round. It experiences a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.</p>



<p>The rainy season is from May to October, with the wettest months being August and September. Thunderstorms are common during this period, and the island can experience heavy rainfall, especially during hurricane season.</p>



<p>The humidity level is consistently high due to the tropical location, often exceeding 70 percent. It peaks during the rainy season, making it feel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-temperature-threshold-can-the-human-body-handle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotter</a> than the actual temperature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hurricanes-on-grand-bahama">Hurricanes on Grand Bahama</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-propose-adding-a-category-6-to-the-current-hurricane-intensity-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricanes</a> have left a lasting impact on the infrastructure, economy, and environment of Grand Bahama.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recovery efforts from such destructive storms often take years, and the island's experience with hurricanes has highlighted the vulnerability of coastal communities in the face of increasingly severe weather events.</p>



<p>Dorian was one of the most devastating hurricanes to hit Grand Bahama. It was a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 miles per hour.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The hurricane caused catastrophic damage, including widespread flooding, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and loss of life. Dorian stalled over the island, leading to prolonged and intense damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tourism-nbsp-on-grand-bahama">Tourism&nbsp;on Grand Bahama</h2>



<p>Grand Bahama is known for its stunning beaches, such as Lucaya Beach, Xanadu Beach, and Taino Beach. The island offers various water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating.</p>



<p>The Lucayan National Park is a popular natural attraction, featuring one of the world's longest underwater cave systems, as well as beautiful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mangroves-and-saltmarshes-are-much-better-at-storing-carbon-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mangroves</a> and wetlands.</p>



<p>Port Lucaya Marketplace is a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, often considered the heart of Grand Bahama’s tourist activity.</p>



<p>Grand Bahama has been working on revitalizing its tourism industry, especially after facing challenges like hurricanes and the Covid-19 pandemic. Efforts include upgrading infrastructure, improving facilities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. </p>



<p>The island offers various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/travelers-are-ready-for-more-affordable-eco-friendly-options/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-tourism</a> activities, including kayaking through mangroves, bird watching, and exploring its unique ecosystems, which attract visitors interested in environmental conservation and sustainable travel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grand-bahama-folklore">Grand Bahama folklore</h2>



<p>On Grand Bahama Island, folklore and supernatural tales have been passed down through generations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chickcharney">The Chickcharney</h3>



<p>The Chickcharney is a legendary creature believed to inhabit the forests of the Bahamas, including Grand Bahama. Described as a large, bird-like creature with red eyes and three-toed feet, it is said to bring good luck to those who encounter it and treat it with respect.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, those who mock or disrespect it might find themselves cursed with bad luck. The Chickcharney is deeply rooted in Bahamian folklore and is often depicted as a guardian of the forests.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ghost-of-rand-nature-center">The ghost of Rand Nature Center</h3>



<p>The Rand Nature Center in Freeport is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former caretaker. Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained footsteps, cold spots, and the feeling of being watched.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some believe the caretaker's spirit lingers to ensure the park is well-maintained and respected by those who visit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lost-city-of-atlantis">The lost city of Atlantis</h3>



<p>While not unique to Grand Bahama, the legend of Atlantis has a connection to the Bahamas. Some believe that parts of the lost city lie submerged off the coast of the island.&nbsp;</p>



<p>There are tales of divers encountering mysterious underwater structures and strange phenomena, leading to speculation that these ruins could be remnants of the ancient civilization.</p>



<p>These stories are an integral part of the island's cultural heritage, blending history, myth, and the supernatural. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, the tales continue to capture the imagination of both locals and visitors to Grand Bahama.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Copernicus Sentinel data (2023), processed by ESA</p>



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Grand Bahama: A blend of beauty and resilience 

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the Aladaghlar Mountains in northwestern Iran.</p>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> are known for their strikingly colorful landscapes, which make them stand out among other mountain ranges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscape-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Landscape of the Aladaghlar Mountains</h2>



<p>"Ridges cast shadows in the valleys and other low elevation areas, creating a three-dimensional appearance. Human alterations to the landscape are most evident in riverbeds, where the even topography is easier to build on and navigate," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"Natural processes over millions of years have folded rock layers of various compositions and colors into the curved patterns seen here. These folds are produced by tectonic forces operating along the convergent plate boundary of the Arabia and Eurasia plates." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rainbow-mountains">The Rainbow Mountains</h2>



<p>One of the most remarkable features of the Aladaghlar Mountains is the vivid coloration of their slopes. </p>



<p>The name "Aladaghlar" translates to "colorful mountains," which is a testament to their unique appearance.&nbsp;They are also known as the Rainbow Mountains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Wildlife of the Aladaghlar Mountains </h2>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are part of a larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-ecosystems-are-in-urgent-need-of-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> that includes forests, meadows, and rivers, contributing to a rich biodiversity. </p>



<p>The region supports a variety of wildlife, including several species that are unique to the area. The diverse wildlife add to the natural beauty and ecological importance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a>.</p>



<p>Among the larger mammals, the mountains host species such as brown bears, Persian leopards, and wild goats. The Aladaghlar Mountains also support smaller mammals, including foxes, hares, and various rodent species.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-influence-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birdlife</a> is abundant, including eagles, falcons, and a variety of songbirds. Reptiles like lizards and snakes are commonly found in the more humid areas, as well as amphibians.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-region">Cultural significance of the region</h2>



<p>In addition to their natural appeal, the Aladaghlar Mountains hold cultural significance. The region has a rich history, with evidence of ancient civilizations and historical sites. </p>



<p>Local communities have their unique cultures and traditions, which have been influenced by the natural environment of the mountains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geology-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains-nbsp">Geology of the Aladaghlar Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The geological history of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-both-carbon-sinks-and-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is a fascinating tale of millions of years of natural processes.</p>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are primarily composed of sedimentary rocks that have accumulated over millions of years. These sediments include sandstones, siltstones, shales, and conglomerates.</p>



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



<p>The varying colors of the Aladaghlar Mountains are largely due to the presence of different minerals in the sedimentary layers. For example, red and orange hues are typically due to iron oxides, while greens can result from copper compounds.</p>



<p>These minerals were deposited in the sedimentary rocks through processes such as chemical precipitation, biological activity, and the weathering of parent rocks.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tectonic-activity">Tectonic activity</h3>



<p>The region has experienced significant tectonic activity due to its location near the convergent boundary between the Arabian and Eurasian plates. This tectonic activity has caused the uplift and folding of the sedimentary layers, creating the mountain range.</p>



<p>The compression and folding associated with tectonic movements have also contributed to the exposure of the colorful strata that were originally deposited horizontally.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erosion-and-weathering">Erosion and weathering</h3>



<p>Over time, erosion and weathering processes have played a crucial role in shaping the Aladaghlar Mountains. </p>



<p>Wind, water, and temperature variations have eroded the softer rock layers more quickly than the harder ones, creating the distinctive ridges and valleys seen today.</p>



<p>These erosive processes have also helped to expose the underlying layers, revealing the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that attract tourists and geologists alike.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tales and legends</h2>



<p>One of the most famous tales associated with the Aladaghlar Mountains is that of a hidden treasure buried deep within the mountains by an ancient Persian king.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to legend, the treasure is guarded by mystical creatures and can only be found by someone pure of heart and brave enough to face the challenges of the mountain.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The shepherd and the fairy</h3>



<p>Another local legend tells the story of a young shepherd who fell in love with a fairy he encountered in the Aladaghlar Mountains. The fairy granted the shepherd three wishes, but warned him that the wishes would come with consequences.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite the warning, the shepherd made his wishes, which ultimately led to his downfall, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The healing springs</h3>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are also said to be home to a spring with magical healing properties. According to folklore, those who bathe in the spring or drink its water are cured of all ailments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the location of the spring is a closely guarded secret, known only to a few wise elders in the nearby villages.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The spirit of the mountain&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Some locals believe that the Aladaghlar Mountains are inhabited by a protective spirit, who watches over the land and its people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This spirit is said to bring good fortune to those who respect the mountain and its natural beauty, but misfortune to those who exploit or harm it.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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The Aladaghlar Mountains of northwestern Iran

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features the Corbassière glacier, a high-altitude glacier in Switzerland. The glacier originates on the northern slope of the Grand Combin, which is one of the highest peaks in the Pennine Alps.</p>



<p>Collectively, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alpine glaciers</a> of Switzerland have lost more than half of their volume since the 1930s.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-archives-of-past-climate">Natural archives of past climate </h2>



<p>"Glaciers are natural archives of past climate. In their frozen layers lies evidence of Earth’s changing temperature and atmospheric composition. But as the climate warms, some of the longest records of our changing planet are melting away," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"In just over two decades, Corbassière has shrunk in area and surface mass. The glacier was darker in 2023 due to lack of snow, and the glacier’s tongue had retreated."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ice-cores-from-the-corbassiere-glacier">Ice cores from the Corbassière glacier</h2>



<p>To reconstruct past concentrations of atmospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-aerosols-impact-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a>, a team of scientists analyzed ice cores that were collected from the Corbassière glacier in 2018 and 2020.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Aerosols are tiny airborne particles that are deposited in the ice. "Such information from glaciers around the world can provide clues about past environmental conditions thousands of years ago," noted NASA.</p>



<p>"Ice cores contain ammonium, nitrate, and sulfate ions - signatures of aerosols lacing the snow that’s deposited on glaciers year after year. Ion concentrations are lower in winter than in summer because less polluted air can rise from the valley when the air is cold."</p>



<p>When the researchers analyzed the ice core from 2018, they found seasonal fluctuations in the amount of ion deposits - which is what they expected to find.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"But when we went to core the glacier in 2020, we noticed melting on the surface right away,” said Margit Schwikowski, an environmental chemist at <a href="https://www.psi.ch/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paul Scherrer Institute</a> in Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-surface-melting-on-corbassiere-glacier">Rapid surface melting on Corbassière glacier</h2>



<p>The experts determined that melting on the glacier's surface likely penetrated the glacier layers below and carried away the aerosol ions. </p>



<p>"This melting rendered the core unusable in the team’s research, and other attempts to core the glacier had the same result. The valuable information stored in the ice was destroyed," explained NASA.</p>



<p>Schwikowski has joined a team of other experts in an effort to preserve cores from the last remaining glaciers. Led by the <a href="https://www.ice-memory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Memory Foundation</a>, the goal of the project is to obtain ice cores from 20 endangered glaciers around the world in 20 years and collect them in a global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ice-has-a-history-of-rapid-and-unexpected-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate archive</a>.</p>



<p>“Glaciers are retreating worldwide, and we may find similar issues at other sites,” said Schwikowski. She added that even at the highest altitudes in the Alps, "glaciers are on the verge of becoming unsuitable as natural paleo-archives."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-features-of-the-corbassiere-glacier">Features of the Corbassière Glacier</h2>



<p>The Corbassière Glacier is a captivating natural feature located in the Swiss Alps, part of the canton of Valais. </p>



<p>The glacier stretches over approximately 9 kilometers, making it one of the significant glaciers in the region. It originates from the Grand Combin, an imposing mountain massif that reaches heights of over 4,300 meters, contributing greatly to the glacier's nourishment through snow and ice accumulation.</p>



<p>A distinct feature of the Corbassière Glacier is its accessibility and the dramatic scenery it offers, which attracts many hikers and nature enthusiasts. </p>



<p>One of the most notable attractions near the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-seems-to-have-lost-its-ability-to-recover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> is the Corbassière footbridge, a 210-meter long suspension bridge that provides stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. </p>



<p>This bridge not only enhances the experience for visitors but also serves as a crucial observation point for scientists studying glacier dynamics and the effects of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Swiss Alps&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Swiss <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-in-the-alps-could-soon-be-cut-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alps</a> are a majestic and expansive mountain range that stretches across the southern part of Switzerland, forming a part of the greater Alpine region that spreads across several countries in Europe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Renowned for their stunning beauty and formidable peaks, the Swiss Alps are not just a geographical landmark but also a cultural symbol of Switzerland, epitomizing its identity as a nation of scenic landscapes and outdoor adventure.</p>



<p>The region is famous for its dramatic scenery, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and picturesque valleys. Among these peaks are some of the highest in Europe, such as the Dufourspitze, part of the Monte Rosa massif, which is the highest point in Switzerland. </p>



<p>The Matterhorn, perhaps the most iconic of all Swiss mountains, is celebrated for its unique, pyramid-like shape and is a magnet for climbers and tourists alike.</p>



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



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The Corbassière glacier in the Swiss Alps

<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

<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>



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



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The ice giant Uranus in stunning detail

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

<p>If you're a crayfish, location can make all the difference. In North America, these small crustaceans are facing tough times due to habitat destruction, damming, and pollution, leading many species to require urgent help.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conversely, some of these same species, when introduced to Europe, have found the environment so favorable that they've become invasive, outcompeting local crayfish and spreading diseases that push native species toward extinction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searchable-atlas-the-world-of-crayfish">Searchable atlas: The World of Crayfish </h2>



<p>Previously, researchers and conservation planners had to sift through multiple data sources to determine where specific crayfish species had been documented.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, a new mapping project led by the <a href="https://www.uvt.ro/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">West University of Timișoara, Romania</a> (WUT) and the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> has compiled information on 427 crayfish taxa and over 100,000 observation records into the first searchable global atlas, named the World of Crayfish.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-importance-of-crayfish">Ecological importance of crayfish</h2>



<p>“One of the most basic pieces of information to know about a species is where it lives: its distribution and its range size. But we just don’t have that information for a lot of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bright-coloration-in-crayfish-does-not-serve-an-evolutionary-purpose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crayfish</a> species,” said Bloomer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“About a third of crayfish are thought to be threatened or endangered, but for another 20-ish percent, we don't have the data available to even assess what their conservation status should be.”</p>



<p>Bloomer acknowledges that most people outside her field may not notice or appreciate crayfish, but she emphasizes their importance. </p>



<p>Crayfish are considered “keystone species” in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-quarter-of-freshwater-fish-species-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater ecosystems</a>, playing significant roles as food sources for other animals and as ecosystem engineers. They create burrows that provide habitats for many species in semi-terrestrial environments. Unfortunately, their impact as invaders is equally significant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-unified-action">Urgent need for unified action</h2>



<p>“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Invasive species</a> are one of the gravest challenges to biodiversity in Europe, with profound ecological, economic, and societal consequences," said atlas co-creator Mihaela Ion, researcher at the <a href="https://www.ibiol.ro/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Biology Bucharest, Romanian Academy</a>.</p>



<p>"They disrupt ecosystems, outcompete native species, and impose significant costs on sectors like agriculture and fisheries. In some cases, they even threaten public health. A unified, science-driven approach is essential to mitigate their impact.”</p>



<p>These ecological changes occur locally but require global collaboration for effective conservation and invasion mitigation. That's why Ion, Bloomer, and their collaborators believe the new global crayfish atlas will make a significant difference.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-the-crayfish-atlas">Building the crayfish atlas</h2>



<p>“We're looking at climate change, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat loss</a>, and international spread of invasive species and disease,” Bloomer said. “These global issues require global collaborations to move forward and make an impact.”</p>



<p>“The World of Crayfish™ (WoC) platform is designed to become a transformative tool in biodiversity research and management,” added Lucian Pârvulescu, a professor at WUT and project coordinator for the atlas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It serves as a foundation for integrating expert-validated datasets and applying advanced analysis techniques to address pressing ecological challenges like invasive species management." </p>



<p>'WoC exemplifies the future of biodiversity data infrastructure - accessible, integrative, and purpose-driven. By focusing on freshwater ecosystems, particularly crayfish species, it addresses an urgent need for tools that do more than collect data - they provide solutions.”</p>



<p>Creating the atlas involved extracting GPS coordinates from every modern crayfish occurrence record in scientific literature, as well as museum and agency collections. </p>



<p>Several thousand records were sourced from the <a href="https://crustacean.inhs.illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crustacean Collection of the Illinois Natural History Survey</a>, part of the Prairie Research Institute at Illinois. Atlas co-creator and emeritus curator Christopher Taylor has collected and curated the collection for nearly 30 years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-conservation-efforts"><strong>Empowering conservation efforts</strong></h2>



<p>The more than 100,000 data points can be visualized on a world map scalable to 20-kilometer hexagons, including an address lookup tool. </p>



<p>Bloomer notes that this spatial scale is meaningful for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> planning but masks the exact locations where sensitive or imperiled species were found. </p>



<p>Researchers and resource managers can register for an account on the website to access more detailed location data. Future updates to the atlas aim to enhance its capabilities.</p>



<p>“Through collaboration with international experts and leveraging scientific advancements, WoC aims to combine ecological data with geospatial and predictive tools. These tools will support tailored analyses, such as mapping invasive species dynamics, evaluating habitat suitability, and predicting population trends,” Pârvulescu said. </p>



<p>“The platform’s strength lies in its ability to merge diverse data streams into a cohesive system that generates actionable insights.”</p>



<p>Ultimately, the team hopes the atlas will empower researchers, policymakers, and agencies to develop conservation assessments and policies to protect these important animals with precision and urgency. Bloomer also hopes the atlas will inspire public interest in crayfish.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raising-awareness-and-appreciation-for-crayfish"><strong>Raising awareness and appreciation for crayfish</strong></h2>



<p>“The unfortunate reality in conservation biology is that a lot of the species that get attention and funding are charismatic megafauna that people see on TV or in zoos," said Bloomer.</p>



<p>"This website gives the public better access to information on what lives near them, and could get them more interested in their local landscape. Hopefully, they’ll see that crayfish are just as cool as lions and rhinos."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18229" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PeerJ</em></a>.</p>



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Global crayfish atlas offers new tools for conservation 

If you're a crayfish, location can make all the difference....

<p>There is a fruit called the 'squirting cucumber' that fires its seeds like mini ballistic missiles. But how does it do this? Researchers seem to have solved this mystery -- a question that has baffled scientists for hundreds of years.</p>



<p>The results of a recent study, based on a myriad of experiments, high-speed videography, image scrutiny, and advanced mathematical modeling, are published in the journal <em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em> (PNAS).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-squirting-cucumber">Understanding the squirting cucumber</h2>



<p>The squirting cucumber, or <em>Ecballium elaterium</em>, derives its name from its unique method of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-seeds-go-dormant-to-avoid-harsh-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed</a> dispersal.</p>



<p>As the fruit ripens, it transitions into a seed-launching machine, that can shoot out seeds enveloped in a jet of mucus-like fluid.</p>



<p>In a minuscule span of just 30 milliseconds, the seeds are propelled at speeds of around 20 meters per second or 44 miles per hour, enabling them to land a considerable distance away (approximately 10 meters or 33 feet). </p>



<p>This is equal to around 250 times the length of the fruit itself .</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-seed-dispersal">Decoding seed dispersal</h2>



<p>Despite the fruit's intriguing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-increase-forest-recovery-by-dispersing-seeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed dispersal</a> method, the mechanism behind it -- as well as its impact on the plant's reproduction -- remained elusive until recently.</p>



<p>Scientists from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> and the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> ran a battery of tests on <em>Ecballium</em> specimens grown at the University of Oxford Botanic Garden.</p>



<p>These experiments included capturing the seed dispersal in motion using a high-speed camera, conducting indentation tests, measuring the volume of the fruit and stem before and after dispersal, and observing the fruit's changes through time-lapse photography. </p>



<p>Armed with this data, the team devised mathematical models to describe and understand the internal and external mechanics at play.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fluid-distribution-in-squirting-cucumber">Fluid distribution in squirting cucumber</h2>



<p>The team's rigorous approach resulted in the identification of key features of the plant's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed dispersal strategy</a>. </p>



<p>These involve a highly pressurized system, fluid redistribution, rapid recoil, and variable launch - that together form a sophisticated launch system.</p>



<p>The fluid redistribution from the fruit back into the stem, a feature thought to be unique to the squirting cucumber, was among the most significant findings.</p>



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="4NlCX5nNI6-4062310-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fine-tuning-for-successful-seed-dispersal">Fine-tuning for successful  seed dispersal</h2>



<p>The team's mathematical model helped them explore the effects of altering different parameters, and revealed that the squirting cucumber's seed projection method has been naturally fine-tuned for optimal dispersal and propagation.</p>



<p>For instance, making the stem thicker and stiffer led to a narrower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woodlice-prove-crucial-players-plant-seed-dispersal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dispersal area</a> and, therefore, a lower survival rate.</p>



<p>On the other hand, reducing the fluid transferred from the fruit to the stem caused the seeds to be ejected at accelerated speeds but with a nearly vertical launch angle, again resulting in reduced dispersal and survival rates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanisms-of-a-unique-plant">Mechanisms of a unique plant</h2>



<p>"For centuries people have asked how and why this extraordinary plant sends its seeds into the world in such a violent way," said Dr. Chris Thorogood, Deputy Director and Head of Science at the <a href="https://obga.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford Botanic Garden</a>.</p>



<p>"Now, as a team of biologists and mathematicians, we’ve finally begun to unravel this great botanical enigma." </p>



<p>Dr. Derek Moulton, professor of Applied Mathematics at the Oxford <a href="https://www.maths.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mathematical Institute</a>, also participated in the research.</p>



<p>"The first time we inspected this plant in the Botanic Garden, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-europes-plants-at-risk-due-to-decline-in-seed-dispersers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed</a> launch was so fast that we weren’t sure that it had actually happened. It was very exciting to dig in and uncover the mechanism of this unique plant," Dr. Moulton explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-seed-dispersal">Beyond seed dispersal</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Finn Box, a Royal Society University Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, this study has implications beyond botany.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/squirting-cucumber_Ecballium-elaterium_squirting-seeds_UOxford_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/squirting-cucumber_Ecballium-elaterium_squirting-seeds_UOxford_1s.webp" alt="A still showing the jet ejected from a squirting cucumber, which carries its seeds distances of up to 10m away from the mother plant. Credit: Dominic Vella" class="wp-image-1951606"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A still showing the jet ejected from a squirting cucumber, which carries its seeds distances of up to 10m away from the mother plant. Credit: Dominic Vella</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"This research offers potential applications in bio-inspired engineering and material science, particularly on-demand drug delivery systems, for instance microcapsules that eject nanoparticles where precise control of rapid, directional release is crucial," said Dr. Box.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-squirting-cucumber-a-part-of-history">The squirting cucumber: A part of history</h2>



<p><em>Ecballium elaterium</em>, a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes melon, pumpkin, squash, and courgette, is native to the Mediterranean region where it is commonly regarded as a weed due to its effective seed-dispersal strategy.</p>



<p>This plant caught the attention of ancient Greeks and Romans alike, with naturalist Pliny the Elder describing its powerful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-how-plants-use-winged-seeds-to-expand-their-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seed launch</a> centuries ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-future-research">Conservation and future research</h2>



<p>Given the squirting cucumber's extensive use as a model for understanding complex biological phenomena, conserving its natural habitats becomes imperative. This plant holds significant scientific and ecological value.</p>



<p>Future research could investigate the genetic underpinnings of its unique <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-play-a-much-bigger-role-in-seed-dispersal-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dispersal system</a>, linking it to other species within the Cucurbitaceae family to unravel shared evolutionary traits.</p>



<p>Additionally, exploring the potential for cross-disciplinary applications, from environmental management to biomimicry in engineering, could broaden our perspective on how such ecological marvels can benefit human society while preserving biodiversity.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2410420121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.</em></p>



<p>Video Credit: Dominic Vella</p>



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How the 'squirting cucumber' squirts and the trigger that makes it happen

There is a fruit called the 'squirting cucumber' that fires...

<p>Filter feeders are widespread across the animal kingdom, from krill and coral to baleen whales and basking sharks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, researchers at <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> have uncovered a unique filter-feeding mechanism in mobula <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-rays-were-more-diverse-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rays</a> - a group that includes manta and devil rays - that could inspire breakthroughs in industrial water filtration.</p>



<p>The study reveals how the mobula ray’s adaptations balance feeding efficiency with breathing. The findings offer insights into optimizing industrial cross-flow filters, crucial in water treatment and other industries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-manta-ray-s-ingenious-filter-design">The manta ray’s ingenious filter design</h2>



<p>Mobula rays feed by swimming open-mouthed through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a>-rich waters, directing water into their mouths and out through their gills. Parallel, comb-like plates line the floor of their mouths, directing water flow while filtering out plankton particles.</p>



<p>The MIT researchers found that these plates are specifically sized to ensure that plankton particles bounce across the plates into the ray’s cavity rather than escaping through its gills. Simultaneously, the outflowing water allows the ray to breathe by oxygenating its gills.</p>



<p>“We show that the mobula ray has evolved the geometry of these plates to be the perfect size to balance feeding and breathing,” said senior author Anette “Peko” Hosoi, a professor of mechanical engineering at MIT.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-nature-a-new-approach-to-water-filters">Learning from nature: A new approach to water filters</h2>



<p>Inspired by the mobula ray, the researchers designed a simple water filter that mimics the ray’s feeding features. They tested the filter with 3D-printed plates modeled after the ray’s structures and found it could provide a blueprint for improving industrial cross-flow filters.</p>



<p>Cross-flow filters are used in water treatment plants and other industries to separate particles from fluids. These filters work by allowing fluid to flow across a permeable membrane, with clean fluid passing through while particles are carried away into waste reservoirs.</p>



<p>“We want to expand the design space of traditional crossflow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-filtration-system-removes-forever-chemicals-from-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">filtration</a> with new knowledge from the manta ray,” explained lead author Xinyu Mao, an MIT postdoc.</p>



<p>By examining the ray’s filtration mechanism, the team identified new parameters for optimizing filter performance, particularly regarding the trade-off between permeability and selectivity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manta-ray-inspiration-for-water-filters">Manta ray inspiration for water filters</h2>



<p>Industrial filters often face a balancing act: filters with larger pores are highly permeable, allowing fluid to flow through easily but letting small particles escape. Filters with smaller pores, on the other hand, are more selective but require more energy to push fluid through.</p>



<p>The mobula ray’s feeding system offers a natural solution to this dilemma. The ray allows water to flow freely enough to breathe while retaining the plankton particles it feeds on.</p>



<p>“We asked ourselves, how do we do better with this trade-off between permeability and selectivity?” Hosoi said.</p>



<p>By studying the ray’s adaptations, the researchers discovered that vortices - tiny swirling flows of water - play a critical role in its feeding efficiency.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-key-to-efficient-filtering">The key to efficient filtering</h2>



<p>The team’s experiments showed that when water flows through the ray-inspired filter, it creates small vortices at the grooves of the plates. These vortices trap particles while allowing water to flow through unimpeded.</p>



<p>“This vortex is not blocking water, but it is blocking particles,” Hosoi explained. “At higher flow rates, particles try to get through the filter but are blocked by this vortex and are shot down the channel instead.”</p>



<p>The vortices even capture particles smaller than the spacing between the plates, forcing them to bounce across the plates into the ray’s cavity. This mechanism prevents particles from escaping while maintaining high water flow, a feature industrial filters could replicate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-research">Broader implications of the research</h2>



<p>Using the mobula ray as a model, the researchers developed guidelines for designing cross-flow filters. Their blueprint specifies how factors like pore size, spacing, and flow rate can be adjusted to create vortices for optimal filtration.</p>



<p>“You want to design a filter such that you’re in the regime where you generate vortices,” Hosoi said. “Our guidelines tell you: If you want your plant to pump at a certain rate, then your filter has to have a particular pore diameter and spacing to generate vortices that will filter out particles of this size.”</p>



<p>The findings are particularly relevant to industries like water treatment, where filters must balance efficiency and sustainability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-nature-and-technology">Bridging nature and technology</h2>



<p>During the COVID-19 pandemic, the team initially focused on designing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-masks-may-expose-users-to-harmful-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">face masks</a> capable of filtering viruses. This work eventually shifted to studying natural filtration systems, leading them to the mobula ray.</p>



<p>The ray’s evolved mechanism provides a clear example of how nature can solve engineering challenges. By mimicking this system, industries can create more efficient filters that require less energy while maintaining high selectivity.</p>



<p>“The mobula ray is giving us a really nice rule of thumb for rational design,” Hosoi noted.</p>



<p>The study highlights the potential of biomimicry, where insights from the natural world inspire innovative technological solutions. With the mobula ray as a guide, engineers can refine filtration systems to meet modern demands for cleaner, more sustainable processes.</p>



<p>This research not only advances our understanding of filter-feeding animals but also paves the way for practical applications in technology and industry, demonstrating the profound value of learning from nature.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2410018121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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Manta rays inspire a new design for water filters

Filter feeders are widespread across the animal kingdom, from krill...

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<p><br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today&#8217;s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from the </span><a href="https://missouri.edu/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">University of Missouri</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> describes how scientists in the College of Engineering led by Bill Buttlar are helping to fight the spread of COVID-19 using high quality ethanol from corn.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The researchers have shifted their attention from building better roads and stronger bridges to creating an ethanol-based alcohol hand sanitizer.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;The flexibility of the collective lab spaces at Mizzou Engineering allows for a variety of engineering research activities to be conducted in any particular space,&#8221; said Buttlar.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;Therefore, some of the common &#8216;plug and play&#8217; equipment found in many of the labs, such as the in-line gas supply, distilled water, exhaust system and material storage cabinets, quickly enabled my team to convert our research efforts into setting up a hand sanitizer production station. The &#8216;can-do&#8217; attitude held by my team is one of the things that makes working in the engineering community so rewarding.&#8221;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="http://csexton@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chrissy Sexton</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: University of Missouri</span></i></p>
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Corn used to produce high-quality hand sanitizer