<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-webb-nbsp-nbsp">The power of Webb&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>The same cluster was featured as the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. </p>



<p>"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc1333">Webb’s view of NGC1333</h2>



<p>ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC1333 cloud.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."</p>



<p>The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-sun">Formation of the Sun</h2>



<p>“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.</p>



<p>Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.</p>



<p>Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



<p>NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.</p>



<p>Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. </p>



<p>These disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ngc-1333">Significance of NGC 1333</h2>



<p>NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy, still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.</p>



<p>The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>: </strong>ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA</p>



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;</p>



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the Little Dumbbell Nebula, also known as Messier 76, located in the constellation Perseus 3,400 light-years away from Earth.</p>



<p>Astronomers captured this image of the Little Dumbbell Nebula to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope, a joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).</p>



<p>The snapshot provides not only a breathtaking view, but also deep insights into the life cycle of <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> and the dynamic processes within nebulae.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-messier-76">Understanding Messier 76</h2>



<p>Messier 76 is categorized as a planetary nebula - a term which refers to its round, planet-like appearance when viewed through early, low-power telescopes. </p>



<p>However, the term is somewhat misleading as planetary nebulae have no connection to actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, they represent an expansive shell of luminous gases expelled by a dying red giant star, which subsequently collapses into a dense, hot white dwarf. </p>



<p>This transformation marks the late stages of stellar evolution for medium to low-mass stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure-of-messier-76">Structure of Messier 76</h2>



<p>The structure of Messier 76 is particularly notable. It includes a central ring, giving the appearance of a bar-like feature, with two distinct lobes emanating from either side. </p>



<p>This formation is believed to be the result of materials ejected by the star during its red giant phase, possibly sculpted by interactions with a companion star.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although this binary companion is not visible in current Hubble images, its presence is inferred from the thick disk of dust and gas aligned with its orbital plane. </p>



<p>The phenomenon of the companion star potentially being absorbed by the primary star, a process akin to stellar cannibalism, is a captivating aspect of the nebula's history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dynamic-environment-of-the-nebula">The dynamic environment of the nebula</h2>



<p>At the core of the nebula, the primary star, now collapsing into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>, reaches extreme temperatures. This heat is estimated to be 120,000 degrees Celsius - about 24 times hotter than the surface of our Sun.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This intensely hot remnant is visible as a small, bright point at the center of the nebula. Directly below this, another star can be seen; however, it is merely aligned with the nebula by chance and is not a part of it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-glow-of-messier-76">Powerful glow of Messier 76</h2>



<p>The dynamics within Messier 76 are driven by powerful forces. The central disk seems to constrict the material, creating two lobes of gas escaping along the rotational axis of the star, perpendicular to the disk.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The lobes are propelled outward by a potent stellar wind, moving at a staggering two million miles per hour. This rapid movement is sufficient to travel the distance from Earth to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeless-mystery-solved-scientists-uncover-what-is-inside-the-moons-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> in just over seven minutes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The collision of the fast-moving gas with older, slower-moving material ejected during the star’s red giant phase results in the stunning glowing effect seen in the nebula. </p>



<p>The glow, ignited by the ultraviolet radiation from the white dwarf, is a spectacle of colors with red emanating from nitrogen and blue from oxygen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cosmic-moment-in-time">A cosmic moment in time</h2>



<p>Despite its current brilliance, the existence of the Little Dumbbell Nebula is fleeting on a cosmological scale. It is expected to last only about 15,000 years - a mere moment in the lifespan of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-is-ripping-the-universe-apart-but-we-arent-sure-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This brief period highlights the transient nature of such cosmic phenomena, which, while short-lived, provide crucial insights into the mechanics of stellar evolution and the complex interactions within these celestial sculptures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-messier-76">More about Messier 76</h2>



<p>Messier 76 was discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1780. It was later cataloged by Charles Messier, who included it in his famous list of nebulous objects.</p>



<p>The nebula's faintness and small size require a good telescope to be observed effectively, with larger telescopes able to reveal more of its fine details and structure.</p>



<p>Studying Messier 76 helps astronomers understand the life cycle of stars and the processes that occur during the late stages of stellar evolution. </p>



<p>The materials expelled by planetary nebulae like Messier 76 eventually contribute to the interstellar medium, from which new stars and planetary systems may form.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;</p>



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA</p>



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Image Credit: NASA</p>



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NGC 2566: A cosmic eye in the Puppis constellation

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

<p>The idea of life continuing on Earth without humans has a way of catching our attention. Our species has spread across land and sea, altering the planet in countless ways.</p>



<p>Still, Earth’s history shows that no species lasts forever. It can be sobering to consider a future without us, but it also sparks plenty of curiosity about what might follow in our absence.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-discovery-anadoluvius-turkae-suggests-humans-originated-in-europe-not-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Human beings</a> have been at the center of ecological change on Earth for thousands of years. Our inventions and communities have reshaped forests, oceans, and even the atmosphere. </p>



<p>Yet many researchers say nature will adapt once we are gone. This leads to questions about who - or what - would occupy our spot.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-after-humans">Earth after humans</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.biology.ox.ac.uk/people/tim-coulson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Tim Coulson</a> from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> has spent years studying biology and evolution. He believes our disappearance could open the door to surprising new species that take over Earth’s ecological roles.</p>



<p>In his book, <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/459065/the-universal-history-of-us-by-coulson-tim/9780241662304" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Universal History of Us</a>, he traces life’s entire history and zeroes in on a single, striking prediction about what might come next.</p>



<p>One of his main themes involves evolution, which he describes as the “gradual change in living organisms over time as they better adapt to their environments.”</p>



<p>He emphasizes that “most mutations are harmful, but a few provide a survival or reproductive advantage.” Because genes are heritable, these beneficial mutations become more common over generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-selection-and-change">Natural selection and change</h2>



<p>Mutations, in Coulson’s view, drive life forward despite the risks. Yet he reminds readers that no species is permanent.</p>



<p>“Extinction is the fate of all species, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-how-and-when-humans-and-mammals-will-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">including humans</a>, although let’s hope our demise is far in the future.” </p>



<p>That message can feel unsettling. But it also serves as a reminder that every life form, no matter how successful, eventually faces an endpoint.</p>



<p>Coulson’s outlook stems from years of research into how species emerge, survive, and sometimes vanish. “I started to wonder what species might take our place if humans, and our close great ape relatives, were to die out,” he says.</p>



<p>Once humans are removed from the picture, Earth's ecosystems could find balance again, which might allow new creatures to fill the empty slots.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-forms-of-intelligence-emerge">New forms of intelligence emerge</h2>



<p>Nobody knows if the next ruling life form would mirror humanity. Coulson proposes that “new forms of intelligence and complexity could emerge in unexpected ways.”</p>



<p>This opens the possibility that a future species might come up with solutions and technologies unlike any we can picture right now.</p>



<p>Some believe that primates are the likeliest successors, but Coulson raises doubts.</p>



<p>“Primates depend heavily on strong social networks,” he explains, along with the idea that “they engage in activities like hunting, grooming, and defense, which are essential for their survival. These constraints might help them struggle to adjust to a world undergoing dramatic ecological shifts.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-successor-to-humans-on-earth">Potential successor to humans on Earth</h2>



<p>In place of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-group-cohesion-common-enemy-effect-do-not-kill-inside-their-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate relatives</a>, Coulson offers a contender that many might find startling: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-octopus-day-the-intelligent-creatures-of-the-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the octopus</a>. He points to their cleverness and adaptability.</p>



<p>“Their ability to solve complex problems, communicate with one another in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-ringed-octopus-a-master-of-deception-inspires-new-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flashes of color</a>, and manipulate objects suggests that, given the right <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turquets-octopus-dna-tells-scientists-that-west-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse-is-close/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental conditions</a>, they could evolve into a civilization-building species.”</p>



<p>He adds, “their advanced neural structure, decentralized nervous system, and remarkable problem-solving skills make several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-dumbo-octopus-captured-on-film-and-video-in-hawaii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species of octopus</a> well suited for an unpredictable world.”</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-seas-impair-octopus-vision-to-a-critical-extent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Octopuses</a> already have a reputation for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-octopus-has-mastered-the-art-of-multispecies-hunting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">being creative</a> and a bit mischievous. </p>



<p>“Some individuals even escape from their tanks at night in some research centers, visiting those of their neighbors, believe it or not,” Coulson says. They are known to use tools, open jars, and display signs of curiosity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-underwater">Life underwater</h2>



<p>If humans were gone, oceans might become even more central to Earth’s future. Though land-based creatures have typically held top positions on the food chain, Coulson notes a critical challenge for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-octopuses-dream-a-recent-study-shows-octopuses-sleep-is-very-similar-to-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses</a>.</p>



<p>“Octopuses are unlikely to adapt to life on land due to their lack of a skeleton, which makes swift and agile movement out of water challenging,” he explained.</p>



<p>"With evolutionary advances, it is possible, if not probable, that they might develop ways to breathe outside of water and eventually hunt terrestrial animals like deer, sheep, and other mammals - assuming they have survived the catastrophic event that drove humans extinct."</p>



<p>That sounds extreme. Yet Coulson is simply highlighting how evolution can lead life down paths that seem impossible at first.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-would-octopus-earth-look-like">What would octopus-Earth look like?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopuses-adapt-to-seasonal-temperatures-by-rewiring-their-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Octopuses</a> might build underwater habitats, find new ways to interact with their surroundings, and even reach beyond the waves one day.</p>



<p>“Would octopuses build vast underwater cities and come onto land wearing breathing apparatus to shoot a deer? We’ve no way of knowing,” he says.</p>



<p>No one predicted that ancient primates would slowly turn into bipedal humans with advanced technology.</p>



<p>Coulson believes that “random mutations, unforeseen extinction events, and population bottlenecks can all significantly influence the trajectory of evolution.” This means the future is wide open, shaped by countless variables that scientists can’t fully predict.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impossible-to-know-fun-to-think-about">Impossible to know, fun to think about</h2>



<p>“The future of life on Earth is shaped by countless variables,” he points out. The path of evolution might take strange turns. Some scenarios might never pan out. Others could surprise us by unfolding in real time.</p>



<p>“But could <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/octopus-and-squid-senses-linked-to-human-brain-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">octopuses replace humans</a> - and potentially also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a> - if they were to die out? Absolutely. They could become the brains of the sea.”</p>



<p>For now, it remains an intriguing thought experiment to imagine aquatic invertebrates overseeing a planet once dominated by upright mammals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-imagining-earth-without-humans">Imagining Earth without humans</h2>



<p>Coulson does not claim that this outcome is inevitable. Instead, he suggests it as a lesson in how nature might rearrange itself without us. </p>



<p>Earth’s past is packed with examples of life enduring massive upheavals. It’s possible that intelligence, in some form, might spring up long after humans are gone.</p>



<p>His book underscores evolution’s capacity to produce forms and behaviors that seem strange from our perspective.</p>



<p>This speculation encourages us to think about the delicate nature of our own hold on the planet. Our species is part of a story that began ages ago, and life will keep moving forward, one step at a time.</p>



<p>The full interview was published in <em><a href="https://the-european.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The European</a></em>.</p>



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What animal will replace humans as Earth's dominant species? This scientist has an idea

The idea of life continuing on Earth without humans has...

<p>Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are extraordinary, fleeting explosions of radio waves. These signals, often originating from neutron stars or black holes, last for just a millisecond but carry immense energy, briefly surpassing the brightness of entire galaxies. </p>



<p>Since their first detection in 2007, astronomers have identified thousands of these bursts, originating from distances as vast as 8 billion light-years away. However, their exact sources have remained an enigma.</p>



<p>A breakthrough study by MIT researchers, published in the journal <em>Nature</em>, sheds new light on this cosmic puzzle. </p>



<p>By examining FRB 20221022A, a signal detected 200 million light-years away, the team pinpointed its origin near a highly magnetized neutron star.</p>



<p>The findings provide the first concrete evidence that some FRBs emerge from the magnetosphere - the chaotic, magnetic region surrounding such stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-neutron-stars-the-basics">Understanding neutron stars -- the basics</h2>



<p>When a massive star runs out of fuel and goes supernova, the core that’s left behind can collapse into a super-dense ball called a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-star-collisions-push-the-limits-of-extreme-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a>. </p>



<p>These stars are so dense that a teaspoon of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-jets-cannibals-neutron-stars-explosions-contain-life-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a> material could weigh about as much as Mount Everest. </p>



<p>What makes them even more fascinating is that they're mostly made up of neutrons - subatomic particles that normally hang out inside the nucleus of atoms. </p>



<p>The incredible pressure from the collapsing star pushes electrons and protons together to form these neutrons, making the star ridiculously dense and compact.</p>



<p>Neutron stars can spin incredibly fast, sometimes up to several hundred times per second. And they have intense magnetic fields, which can generate beams of radiation that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/garden-sprinkler-s-shaped-jet-found-distant-neutron-star-circinus-x1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shoot out from their poles</a>. </p>



<p>If one of these beams happens to point toward Earth, we get a glimpse of a phenomenon called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-guitar-nebula-a-pulsars-dazzling-performance-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a pulsar</a>. This makes the neutron star appear to "pulse" as it spins, like a cosmic lighthouse. </p>



<p>Despite being small in size, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-sun-like-stars-with-secret-companions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron stars</a> pack a punch with their gravitational pull, and they can even warp space-time around them, causing weird effects like time dilation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-twinkle-of-fast-radio-bursts">Decoding the twinkle of fast radio bursts</h2>



<p>To trace the origins of FRB 20221022A, the researchers employed a technique called scintillation. This phenomenon, which is akin to the twinkling of stars, occurs when light from a small, bright source passes through gas, causing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-space-radio-signal-reaches-earth-after-8-billion-years-frb-20220610a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variations in brightness</a>.</p>



<p>The team analyzed the FRB’s brightness fluctuations and discovered that the burst originated from an extremely compact region, no more than 10,000 kilometers wide.</p>



<p>“This means that the FRB is probably within hundreds of thousands of kilometers from the source,” explained study lead author Kenzie Nimmo.</p>



<p>“That’s very close. For comparison, we would expect the signal to be tens of millions of kilometers away if it originated from a shockwave.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-released-from-magnetic-fields">Energy released from magnetic fields</h2>



<p>The team’s analysis revealed that FRB 20221022A likely exploded from a region just 10,000 kilometers away from a neutron star - a distance comparable to the span between New York and Singapore. This proximity strongly suggests that the burst emerged from the neutron star’s magnetosphere.</p>



<p>“In these environments of neutron stars, the magnetic fields are really at the limits of what the universe can produce,” said Nimmo. “There’s been a lot of debate about whether this bright <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/farthest-known-fast-radio-burst-traced-to-rare-cluster-of-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio emission</a> could even escape from that extreme plasma.”</p>



<p>“The exciting thing here is, we find that the energy stored in those magnetic fields, close to the source, is twisting and reconfiguring such that it can be released as radio waves that we can see halfway across the universe,” noted Kiyoshi Masui, an <a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> associate professor of physics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elusive-origins-of-fast-radio-bursts">Elusive origins of fast radio bursts</h2>



<p>The Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (<a href="https://chime-experiment.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CHIME</a>) has significantly advanced our understanding of FRBs. Since 2020, this unique radio telescope array has detected thousands of bursts. </p>



<p>However, the origins of these bursts have remained elusive due to competing theories. Some suggest FRBs arise from the turbulent magnetosphere near compact objects, while others propose they originate from far-out shockwaves.</p>



<p>The scintillation analysis by the MIT team rules out the latter possibility for FRB 20221022A. Instead, their findings confirm the burst’s origin within a magnetically chaotic environment, reinforcing the role of neutron stars as central players in producing FRBs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polarization-another-key-insight">Polarization: Another key insight</h2>



<p>In a companion study, researchers from <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a> observed a highly polarized signal from FRB 20221022A.</p>



<p>This polarization traced a smooth S-shaped curve, reminiscent of signals from pulsars, which are magnetized, rotating neutron stars.</p>



<p>“To see a similar polarization in fast radio bursts was a first,” the McGill team reported. This evidence supported the MIT team’s scintillation-based conclusion that the burst’s origin was in the immediate vicinity of the neutron star.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-milestone-in-understanding-fast-radio-bursts">Milestone in understanding fast radio bursts</h2>



<p>The precision of this study is staggering. The team successfully traced the FRB’s origin to a region just 10,000 kilometers wide - a feat akin to measuring the width of a DNA helix from the moon.</p>



<p>“There’s an amazing range of scales involved,” said Masui.</p>



<p>These findings mark a milestone in understanding FRBs. By combining scintillation techniques with CHIME’s vast dataset, scientists can now pinpoint the origins of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-energy-flash-brighter-than-a-galaxy-traveled-8-billion-light-years-to-reach-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bursts</a> with unprecedented accuracy.</p>



<p>“These bursts are always happening, and CHIME detects several a day,” noted Masui. “There may be a lot of diversity in how and where they occur, and this scintillation technique will be really useful in helping to disentangle the various physics that drive these bursts.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-physics-and-magnetic-fields">Extreme physics and magnetic fields</h2>



<p>The research was made possible by support from numerous institutions, including the <a href="https://www.innovation.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canada Foundation for Innovation</a>, the <a href="https://www.dunlap.utoronto.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dunlap Institute</a> for Astronomy and Astrophysics, and the <a href="https://tsi.mcgill.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trottier Space Institute</a>.</p>



<p>The study’s MIT co-authors, along with collaborators from multiple institutions, have paved the way for deeper insights into the enigmatic world of fast radio bursts.</p>



<p>As scientists continue to unravel these cosmic phenomena, the universe's most brilliant radio <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-radio-burst-traveled-through-space-for-8-billion-years-to-reach-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flares</a> may hold the key to understanding extreme physics and magnetic fields at the edge of what the cosmos can produce.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08297-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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Deep space radio waves originated from a surprising source

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are extraordinary, fleeting explosions of radio...

<p>Our brain is the organ that most distinguishes us from other primates. Its large size, complexity and capabilities exceed those of any other species on our planet. </p>



<p>However, we share up to 95% of our genome with chimpanzees, our closest living relatives. So how can such closely related species - at the genomic level - exhibit such stark differences in brain function?&nbsp;</p>



<p>It turns out, certain brain cell types may hold the key, according to a study led by Professor Soojin Yi at the <a href="https://www.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Barbara</a>. The research was conducted with collaborators at the <a href="https://www.imim.cat/en_index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute in Barcelona</a>.</p>



<p>The findings show that while humans and chimpanzees share many of the same genes, alterations in gene activity may account for distinctive features of the human brain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-the-focus-to-gene-expression">Shifting the focus to gene expression</h2>



<p>Researchers have long known that genes serve as a blueprint for an organism, but actual biological processes hinge on how, when, and to what extent these genes are turned on or off.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Scientists quantify this by measuring messenger RNA (mRNA), the molecule that relays a gene’s instructions to cellular machinery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As they compared the human genome to that of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-feel-the-pressure-to-perform-with-an-audience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a>, scholars once believed the differences resided in the genes themselves.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, with well over 90% genetic similarity, that explanation alone appeared insufficient. Instead, gene expression - the amount of mRNA produced - seems to be the crucial factor in explaining why the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-human-brain-processes-visual-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human brain</a> diverges so markedly from primate relatives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-expression-and-brain-evolution">Gene expression and brain evolution</h2>



<p>There is growing evidence that even tiny alterations in how genes are regulated can lead to significant changes in anatomy and behavior. “Differential gene expression is really how human brains evolved,” Yi said.</p>



<p>The researchers set out to identify precisely which genes in specific types of brain cells might exhibit notable differences in expression among humans, chimpanzees, and other primates.</p>



<p>Until recently, scientists typically studied gene expression by taking tissue samples that contained mixtures of cell types. This approach made it difficult to pinpoint the unique activity patterns within different classes of brain cells.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the new study, the team tackled this challenge by using modern techniques capable of analyzing single-cell nuclei. By isolating and sequencing the genetic content of individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-develop-faster-in-space-than-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cells</a>, the researchers could categorize them according to cell type before measuring gene expression levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-cell-types-among-primates-nbsp">Varying cell types among primates&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This focus on specific cell populations yielded a wealth of detail about how gene activity in individual regions and cell types varies among primates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Data from humans, chimpanzees, and macaques revealed that many genes exhibit shared expression patterns, but humans often display enhanced expression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Certain cell types, such as those linked to vital cognitive processes, show particularly strong upregulation in humans when compared to other primates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glial-cells-and-brain-expansion">Glial cells and brain expansion</h2>



<p>Neurons attract much of the attention in discussions of the human brain’s capabilities. But the study highlights that glial cells - non-neuronal cells that provide structural support, insulation, and other vital functions - may also play a critical part in distinguishing the human brain from its primate cousins.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Human brains generally have a higher ratio of glial cells to neurons than chimpanzee brains, hinting at how these support cells could contribute to advanced cognitive abilities.</p>



<p>One especially noteworthy subset of glia, known as oligodendrocytes, appears to demonstrate significant differences in gene expression. These cells form myelin sheaths that protect neurons and speed up the transmission of signals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers discovered that humans maintain a higher proportion of precursor oligodendrocytes than chimpanzees do, a difference that may underlie extended development times and heightened plasticity in the human brain.</p>



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



<p>Though the study examined only certain brain regions, its insights suggest that gene expression in additional areas of the brain might also differ substantially among primates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yi and her collaborators plan to investigate these questions and delve into the molecular mechanisms that power these evolutionary shifts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts also intend to explore more distantly related species to reconstruct the broader evolutionary history and to assess how archaic humans, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-neanderthals-may-belong-to-the-same-species/">Neanderthals</a> and Denisovans, fit into the narrative.</p>



<p>In the larger context, gene expression research holds promise for explaining how relatively minor genomic differences yield large functional disparities. It shows that evolution can occur via subtle adjustments in the regulation of existing genes rather than the wholesale creation of new genes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By refining our understanding of these regulatory networks in the brain, scientists are one step closer to explaining how humans achieved their exceptional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-do-not-harm-childrens-cognitive-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive abilities</a>.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2411918121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>,</p>



<p>Image Credit: Matt Perko</p>



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From genes to genius: What makes the human brain unique?

Our brain is the organ that most distinguishes us from...


<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592ddc04c9f4142294d16bec/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>EPA&#8221;s National Stormwater Calculator is a desktop application that estimates the annual amount of rainwater and frequency of runoff from a specific site &#8212; any address in the United States &#8212; based on local soil conditions, land cover and historic rainfall records. The calculator accesses several national databases to provide local soil and weather conditions for the chosen site. Users, such as landscape architects, land developers or urban planners, supply information about the site&#8221;s land cover as well as what types of green infrastructure they would like to use. Green infrastructure can include low impact controls such as green roofs, rain gardens, rain barrels, and porous pavement that retain rainfall on site until it eventually evaporates into the air, infiltrates the ground, or is otherwise used.</p>


EPA's National Stormwater Calculator