Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Gobi Altai Mountains and neighboring plains covered in snow and illuminated by sunlight. 



The photograph was captured on January 25, 2024 as the International Space Station (ISS) passed over central Mongolia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mountain-peaks-and-plains">Mountain peaks and plains</h2>



“Late-afternoon sunlight casts long shadows of mountain peaks onto the plains below. Numerous steep gullies cut into the massif, or mass of mountains, whose rugged appearance contrasts with the flat plains stretching along the top of the image,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “The plains are a semidesert grassland, or steppe, which provides pasture for livestock herders in the region.”



“The grassland surrounding the massif is classified by scientists as a cold semidesert. At an elevation of about 1,250 meters, annual temperatures are much lower there than in the mountains. The highest peak in the massif, Ikh Bogd (also known as Tergun Bogd), reaches nearly 4,000 meters.”&nbsp;



According to NASA, the climate on the peaks is classified as a polar tundra because the average annual temperature is below freezing. "Asia’s main tundra zone is located in Siberia, along the coast of the Arctic Ocean, 2,800 kilometers (1,750 miles) to the north.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harsh-winters-and-livestock-in-mongolia">Harsh winters and livestock in Mongolia</h2>



Harsh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-winters-are-getting-colder-while-world-is-getting-warmer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winters</a> in Mongolia, locally known as "dzud," pose significant challenges for livestock and the herders who depend on them for their livelihood. These winters can be particularly severe, characterized by extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and ice, which can block access to grazing grounds, leaving animals without enough food.&nbsp;



The cold temperatures and nutritional shortages result in high mortality rates among livestock, which are crucial to the Mongolian economy and the nomadic lifestyle of many of its people.



The impact of these harsh winters extends beyond immediate animal welfare. As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-livestock-are-major-drivers-of-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">livestock</a> numbers dwindle, herders face financial hardships, and the ripple effects can be felt throughout the entire community.&nbsp;



To combat these challenges, various strategies have been employed, including the development of better forecasting and early warning systems, the stockpiling of fodder, and improved veterinary care. These measures aim to strengthen the resilience of herding communities and ensure the survival of their livestock during Mongolia's most challenging seasons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-wildlife-of-mongolia">Diverse wildlife of Mongolia</h2>



Mongolia is renowned for its diverse wildlife, adapted to its unique landscapes ranging from vast steppes to rugged <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-both-carbon-sinks-and-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> and arid deserts. Among the most iconic species is the Bactrian camel, native to the region and crucial to nomadic herders.&nbsp;



The resilient Mongolian horse, integral to local culture, is celebrated for its endurance across the vast, open landscapes. Predators such as the snow leopard roam the high altitudes, playing a key role in the ecosystem, while the elusive Gobi bear survives in the sparse vegetation of the Gobi Desert.



The steppes are home to the fast-moving Mongolian gazelle and the critically endangered saiga antelope, known for its distinctive nose. The mountains support populations of argali sheep, the world's largest wild sheep, and the ibex, which has mastered the art of navigating rocky terrains. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valley-of-lakes">Valley of Lakes</h2>



“Part of a small dry lake appears in the top left of the image. In wetter years, water from this lake feeds Orog Lake (also photographed by astronauts), out of frame to the upper right. This and other nearby lakes are part of the Valley of Lakes waterfowl conservation habitat, protected as a Ramsar site,” noted NASA.



The Valley of Lakes is known for its expansive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-potential-of-tidal-wetlands-as-blue-carbon-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wetlands</a> and diverse ecosystems that support a variety of bird species, especially migratory waterfowl. This area serves as a crucial stopover for birds during their migration periods, providing them with essential resources such as food and shelter.&nbsp;



The conservation efforts in the Valley of Lakes focus on maintaining and restoring these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-wetlands-are-inching-closer-to-extinction-as-the-world-heats-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wetlands</a> to ensure they continue to offer a safe haven for waterfowl. These efforts include controlling invasive plant species that threaten the natural vegetation and managing water levels to create optimal conditions for bird populations.&nbsp;



Education and community involvement are also key components of the conservation strategy, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of these habitats and encourage sustainable practices that help protect the local wildlife.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Mountain peaks and plains of central Mongolia 

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located around 35 million light-years away in the southern constellation Reticulum. The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope. 



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



"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>.



"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."



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



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;



"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."



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



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.



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.



"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."



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



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.



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>.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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. 



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.



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. 



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



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. 



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.



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



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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...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, which is located about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. 



NGC 3783 is also the most prominent of a galaxy group (by the same name) that contains 47 galaxies. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Cyclone Chido, an intense tropical cyclone that caused unprecedented devastation across Southeast Africa in December 2024.



On December 14, Chido struck the islands of Mayotte with wind speeds exceeding 200 km/h (124 mph) and gusts over 225 km/h (140 mph), marking it as the most powerful storm to hit the French territory in at least 90 years.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyclone</a> ultimately made three landfalls - all with winds equivalent to those of a Category 4 tropical cyclone. According to media reports, authorities in Mayotte fear that hundreds and possibly thousands of people have died.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-intensification-of-chido">Rapid intensification of Chido</h2>



“Chido formed in the southeastern Indian Ocean on December 5, 2024. The disturbance rapidly intensified before hitting the Mauritian islands of Agaléga on December 11. The next day, the cyclone peaked in intensity, with sustained winds of about 250 kilometers (155 miles) per hour - equivalent to a strong Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson wind scale,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153708/cyclone-chido-pummels-mayotte" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Cyclone Chido continued to move west in an environment favorable for sustaining storms. That included warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a> of up to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and low vertical wind shear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastation-of-cyclone-chido-nbsp">Devastation of Cyclone Chido&nbsp;</h2>



The cyclone obliterated entire neighborhoods, particularly in hillside shantytowns inhabited by undocumented migrants. Official reports confirm at least 31 fatalities and thousands of injuries - though the actual death toll may be significantly higher.&nbsp;



The destruction in Mayotte's capital, Mamoudzou, has left approximately 100,000 people homeless. The aftermath has been characterized by a lack of visible assistance from authorities, with residents relying on community support amid concerns over hunger, disease outbreaks, and lawlessness.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landfall-in-mozambique-nbsp">Landfall in Mozambique&nbsp;</h2>



Following its impact on Mayotte, Chido continued westward, making landfall in Mozambique on December 15 near the city of Pemba as a strong Category 4-equivalent intense tropical cyclone.&nbsp;



The storm resulted in at least 34 deaths and 43 injuries across three northern provinces. In neighboring Malawi, Chido claimed two lives.&nbsp;



The cyclone's ferocity, fueled by warmer ocean temperatures attributed to climate change, has raised concerns about the increasing frequency and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intensity</a> of such storms in the region.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recovery-efforts-and-vulnerable-communities-nbsp">Recovery efforts and vulnerable communities&nbsp;</h2>



The crisis has highlighted the vulnerabilities of affected regions, particularly Mayotte, which faces challenges of poverty, overcrowding, and inadequate infrastructure.&nbsp;



The lack of preparedness and insufficient emergency response have drawn criticism, highlighting the need for improved disaster management and investment in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of future climate-induced disasters.&nbsp;



In response to the disaster, French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Mayotte, and relief efforts are underway, including the arrival of a ship carrying 180 tons of aid.&nbsp;



However, the scale of destruction and ongoing challenges in delivering assistance to remote and inaccessible areas continue to impede recovery efforts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-fueled-intensification-of-cyclones-nbsp">Climate-fueled intensification of cyclones&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-rising-impact-of-tropical-cyclones-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intensification of cyclones</a> due to climate change is a significant and concerning phenomenon. As global temperatures rise, warmer ocean waters provide the energy that fuels tropical cyclones, making them stronger and more destructive.&nbsp;



Higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-ocean-temperatures-highest-in-650-years-greatly-harming-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a> lead to increased evaporation, which adds more moisture to the atmosphere. This moisture can enhance the rainfall associated with cyclones, increasing the risk of flooding.&nbsp;



Additionally, rising sea levels, driven by the melting of polar ice caps and thermal expansion of seawater, exacerbate storm surge impacts, causing more extensive and severe coastal flooding during cyclonic events.



Changes in atmospheric conditions also play a role. While climate change may not increase the overall frequency of cyclones, it is likely to shift the distribution and intensity of these storms. For instance, studies suggest that a larger proportion of cyclones are reaching the most intense categories.&nbsp;



Furthermore, slower-moving cyclones, a trend linked to weakened steering currents, can linger longer over vulnerable areas, compounding the damage with prolonged heavy rainfall and strong winds.



These changes in cyclone behavior present challenges for disaster preparedness and response. Coastal communities, particularly in low-lying regions, are becoming increasingly vulnerable to the compounded impacts of more powerful storms, highlighting the urgent need for climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.



The image was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-20 satellite, about three hours after the storm made landfall.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Cyclone Chido’s path of destruction: A climate wake-up call

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

The gentle murmurs of a baby's first sounds are much more than adorable expressions of joy. These early vocalizations signal the synchronization of an infant's heart and emerging speech abilities.



Research led by Jeremy I. Borjon, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Houston, reveals a fascinating link between heart rate fluctuations and the development of language in infants. 



The findings shed light on the complex relationship between physical and cognitive growth in early life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heartbeats-and-infant-speech">Heartbeats and infant speech</h2>



Borjon’s research indicates that a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-hear-far-more-speech-at-home-than-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">baby's earliest sounds</a> - those sweet coos, babbles, and even laughs - are directly tied to the rhythm of their heart.



These findings not only deepen our understanding of language development but also provide potential insights into early detection of speech and communication disorders.



“Heart rate naturally fluctuates in all mammals, steadily increasing then decreasing in a rhythmic pattern,” explained Borjon.



The study revealed that infants are most likely to vocalize when their heart rate reaches a local peak (maximum) or trough (minimum). The timing of these vocalizations appears to have specific outcomes:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Vocalizations at the peak: Longer than expected by chance.</li>



<li>Vocalizations before the trough: More likely to be recognized as words by naïve listeners.</li>
</ul>



This rhythm-driven coordination between heart and speech highlights the role of the autonomic nervous system in early language development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-language-as-a-motor-skill">Language as a motor skill</h2>



While we often think of speech as a cognitive ability, it also depends heavily on motor skills. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-to-babies-in-parentese-boosts-their-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Babies</a> must learn to coordinate a complex interplay of muscles across their body to produce recognizable sounds. Borjon’s study emphasizes how heart rate dynamics directly influence this coordination.



"Every sound an infant makes helps their brain and body learn how to coordinate with each other, eventually leading to speech," Borjon said. 



By observing 34 infants aged 18 to 27 months, his team measured 2,708 vocalizations, including laughs, babbles, and coos. Despite their limited vocabulary, some of these sounds were recognized as words by listeners, illustrating the early building blocks of language.



Notably, only 10.3% of the vocalizations were reliably identified as words, highlighting the gradual process of language acquisition. Yet every sound, whether or not it forms a word, plays a crucial role in helping infants align their physiological and neurological systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infant-speech-development">Infant speech development</h2>



The autonomic nervous system (ANS), responsible for regulating involuntary functions like heart rate and breathing, undergoes rapid growth during a baby’s first few years. 



The research from <a href="https://uh.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Houston</a> suggests that this development directly impacts an infant's ability to produce recognizable speech.



“The relationship between recognizable vocalizations and decelerating heart rate may imply that the successful development of speech partially depends on infants experiencing predictable ranges of autonomic activity through development,” explained Borjon.



The interplay between predictable heart rate patterns and vocalizations highlights a foundational aspect of speech development. As infants grow, their ability to coordinate autonomic functions and vocalizations improves, eventually leading to the production of more complex speech.



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



Borjon emphasizes the need for continued research to better understand how the autonomic nervous system shapes speech development in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-talk-sets-the-stage-for-speech-production-in-infants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



“Understanding how the autonomic nervous system relates to infant vocalizations over development is a critical avenue of future research for understanding how language emerges, as well as risk factors for atypical language development,” he said.



The findings also hold promise for early intervention strategies. By identifying patterns in heart rate and vocalization timing, researchers could potentially detect speech or communication disorders earlier than current methods allow. 



This proactive approach could help provide timely support for children at risk of language delays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-first-sounds">Beyond the first sounds</h2>



Borjon’s work highlights the intricate connection between physical and cognitive growth during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-talk-more-when-interacting-with-artificial-objects-than-with-things-made-by-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infancy</a>. 



Speech development involves more than just learning words - it requires a harmonious interplay between the infants brain, body, and environment.



By studying the subtle rhythms of heartbeats and vocalizations, researchers are uncovering the remarkable processes that enable humans to communicate.



In the end, every <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-need-quick-responses-to-their-babbling-to-learn-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">babble</a> represents more than just a moment of cuteness. These early sounds serve as vital steps in the journey toward mastering language - a journey powered by the steady rhythm of a tiny heart.



The study is published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2419650121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Infant speech is driven by heart rate activity

The gentle murmurs of a baby's first sounds are much...

Those massive storms that drench the West Coast aren't going to stay the same. Recent research shows that climate change will reshape atmospheric rivers - but not in the way you might expect. 



While these storms will pack more punch everywhere, their evolution will look quite different in Seattle compared to San Diego.



The findings come from a team at the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR), led by scientists Christine Shields and Hui Li. 



Their work reveals how these sky-high rivers of moisture will respond differently to warming, depending on where they make landfall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contrasting-impacts-of-atmospheric-rivers">Contrasting impacts of atmospheric rivers</h2>



The changes split the West Coast into two distinct stories. 



In Southern California, increasing ocean evaporation will drive the transformation of atmospheric rivers. Head north to Seattle and Portland, and it's a different ball game - there, warmer temperatures in both the ocean and air will call the shots.



These differences matter. By 2100, storms hitting the Pacific Northwest could push ocean waters three times higher than today's storms do. Southern California will see higher storm surges too, but not nearly as dramatic as their northern neighbors.



"On the ground, people will see a different response between the Southern California coast and the Pacific Northwest," said Shields. "It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. You have these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-rivers-are-shifting-with-global-climate-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regional responses</a> that can be quite different."



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



The research team relied on advanced computing to understand how climate change will reshape atmospheric rivers. 



Using the powerful Derecho supercomputer at the NSF NCAR-Wyoming Supercomputing Center, they ran detailed climate simulations. 



The simulations captured atmospheric changes every 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consecutive-atmospheric-rivers-cause-far-more-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean changes</a> every 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), offering high-resolution insights into the behavior of these storms.



The results were surprising. In Southern California, the well-known "Pineapple Express" storms, which transport moisture from Hawaii, are expected to intensify due to increased evaporation from the ocean in a warmer climate. This added evaporation provides more fuel for the storms, making them more powerful.



In the Pacific Northwest, however, the dynamics are different. The storms there will strengthen due to a combination of rising air and ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-disrupting-the-seasonal-flow-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>. These warming effects will amplify the storms' intensity and lead to more dramatic impacts, such as higher sea levels and increased flooding. 



This regional variation highlights how atmospheric rivers respond differently to climate change, depending on their location.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-difference-matters">Why the difference matters</h2>



These aren't just academic distinctions. Communities along the entire West Coast need to prepare for stronger storms, but their specific challenges will vary by location. The stakes are high - atmospheric rivers already pack a serious punch.



"Atmospheric rivers are like tropical cyclones in that they pack powerful winds and carry enormous amounts of water that can devastate local infrastructure," noted Shields.



"Communities need to understand how they will change in the future so they can adapt and plan."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-impacts-of-atmospheric-rivers">Additional impacts of atmospheric rivers</h2>



The impacts don't stop when the rain does. These atmospheric rivers leave their mark on the ocean too, stirring up waters and potentially affecting marine ecosystems long after the storms pass.



"The strong winds and precipitation linked to atmospheric rivers can significantly impact the upper ocean, potentially impacting ocean dynamics and ecosystems over larger spatial scales and longer timescales than the present," said Li.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-future">Preparing for the future</h2>



This research gives coastal communities crucial information for planning their future. While all regions need to prepare for more intense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/projected-atmospheric-rivers-could-drench-east-asia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storms</a>, their specific challenges will depend on location. 



Southern California needs to ready itself for storms supercharged by ocean evaporation, while the Pacific Northwest must prepare for even more dramatic changes driven by warming air and seas.



The study was conducted by researchers from <a href="https://ncar.ucar.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF NCAR</a>, <a href="https://www.tamu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M University</a>, and <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and NSF.



For West Coast residents, the message is clear: the atmospheric rivers they know today won't be the same ones their children will face. But now, at least, they have a better idea of what's coming their way.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01774-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Atmospheric rivers will become more intense as temperatures rise

Those massive storms that drench the West Coast aren't going...

Hydrothermal systems are gateways to some of the most fascinating processes shaping our planet. 



The Arctic Ocean’s Polaris hydrothermal field is a site that is rewriting what we know about vent diversity and the role of hydrothermal activity in sustaining life on Earth - and possibly beyond.



Recent studies have revealed a broader range of venting styles than experts had anticipated, recalibrating our understanding of these vents' origins and their larger impact on our oceans and planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-polaris-hydrothermal-field">The Polaris hydrothermal field</h2>



Our story unfolds at the Polaris <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/knipovich-ridge-new-hydrothermal-field-arctic-intense-geological-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal field</a>, located in the Arctic Ocean on the ultraslow-spreading Gakkel Ridge. 



Initial studies painted a picture of Polaris as a classic "black smoker" system, caused by its proximity to a volcanic seamount and the temperature and turbidity anomalies in its hydrothermal plume.



But the story of the Polaris field has taken a surprising turn. After comprehensive seafloor surveys and geochemical analyses, scientists discovered that Polaris was not your average black smoker.



Instead, it discharges hydrogen- and methane-enriched fluids into the Arctic Ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydrothermal-life-more-diverse-than-we-knew">Hydrothermal life: More diverse than we knew</h2>



What's more, the deep-sea hydrothermal plumes detected along ultra-slow spreading mid-ocean ridges have revealed a diversity of venting styles beyond what was previously reported. 



According to scientists at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), this expansion of geodiversity has stretched even into the Arctic Ocean, broadening our understanding of the workings of our planet's oceans.



"Hydrogen-rich vents like Polaris have a lot more chemical potential energy available for life than any other kinds of vents," explained Chris German, senior scientist at WHOI. 



"The microbial diversity you get when there is that much energy available also is really quite impressive and distinct from most ordinary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal vents</a>."



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



These insights into the workings of our ocean hold not only earthly significance but also carry weight for the possibilities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-compound-suggests-that-life-beyond-earth-could-be-common/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life beyond our planet</a>. 



"The discoveries we have made here are particularly important because they reassure us that we could go and search for life on other ocean worlds in a credible and meaningful way, based on what we now know," said German.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-arctic-ocean-a-window-into-the-unknown">The Arctic ocean: A window into the unknown</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/additional-heat-is-being-transferred-to-the-arctic-ocean-as-the-climate-warms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic Ocean</a>, one of the least-explored places on Earth, serves as a window into geological processes that would otherwise remain hidden. 



"The insights we gained from the Polaris hydrothermal system were unexpected, with major implications for hydrothermal exploration in other oceans. We are excited to learn what other surprises the Arctic holds in the future," noted Elmar Albers, a postdoctoral investigator at WHOI.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-life-on-earth-to-outer-space">Connecting life on Earth to outer space</h2>



Unraveling the mysteries of our home planet serves as a stepping stone toward understanding the distribution of life in the universe.



"What we learn here, in the Arctic or anywhere on Earth, is directly applied to our successful exploration at other worlds, like Europa and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-sparking-energy-source-found-on-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a>, and beyond," said Becky McCauley Rench, Astrobiology Program Scientist at NASA headquarters.



This study was primarily supported by NASA’s PSTAR program at WHOI and the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. 



As we continue to explore into the ocean's mysteries, we are reminded of the intricate connections between our own planet and the vast universe that exists beyond it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydrothermal-systems-and-the-origins-of-life">Hydrothermal systems and the origins of life</h2>



The Polaris hydrothermal field stands out not only for its diversity but also for its unique chemical signatures. 



Unlike traditional black smoker systems that expel iron- and sulfur-rich fluids, Polaris emits hydrogen- and methane-enriched plumes. These gases fuel specialized microbial communities that thrive in the absence of sunlight, using chemical energy to sustain life.



These hydrogen-rich environments are hotspots for chemosynthesis, a process where microbes convert chemical energy into organic matter. 



The potential energy available in these systems makes them exceptional laboratories for studying how life could arise and persist under extreme conditions, both on Earth and on other ocean worlds.



This distinctive chemistry has implications for understanding how hydrothermal systems may have contributed to the origin of life. 



The chemical gradients observed at Polaris mirror the energy sources theorized to have supported early life on Earth, providing a compelling analog for extraterrestrial environments.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0012821X24005983?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth and Planetary Science Letters</a>.



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Hydrothermal vents: Earth’s blueprint for finding alien life

Hydrothermal systems are gateways to some of the most fascinating...

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Today’s Video of the Day comes thanks to the <a href="http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/02/Earth_from_Space_Sicilian_snow">European Space Agency</a>’s Earth from Space series and features an incredible view of the snow covered mountains of Sicily. 
The images come from the Sentinel-2A satellite during a period of unusually heavy snowfall, leaving the snow covered mountains of Sicily especially visible in white. While northern Italy has seen relatively little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-method-measuring-snowfall/">snow</a> this winter, central and southern Italy have experienced colder-than-usual temperatures and a high volume of snow. Active volcano Mount Etna is visible in the upper right corner of the image, located where the African tectonic plate slides under the Eurasian Plate.
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By Rory Arnold, Earth.com Staff Writer
Source:<a href="http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/02/Earth_from_Space_Sicilian_snow"> ESA</a>

Earth from space: the snow covered mountains of Sicily