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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Spiral galaxy NGC 1559 is a loner in outer space

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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NGC 1792: A galactic powerhouse 

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan. It is one of the world's longest glaciers outside of the polar regions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“An astronaut aboard the International Space Station took this photo of glaciers in the high-elevation valleys of the Pamir Mountains of Central Asia. The upper portion of Fedchenko Glacier crosses the center of the scene.”</p>



<p>NASA noted that most of the larger glaciers in the image show a prominent pattern of light- and dark-brown parallel lines.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The darker ‘streamlines,’ known as medial moraines, give a sense of the direction of flow of the ice down the valleys. These are concentrations of debris that has been eroded by the glacier from the adjacent mountainsides or a rocky outcrop,” said NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fedchenko-a-high-altitude-glacier">Fedchenko: A high-altitude glacier</h2>



<p>Fedchenko Glacier stretches for approximately 48 miles and covers an area of around 270 square miles. This massive glacier is a critical source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a>, feeding several rivers and influencing the region's hydrology.</p>



<p>Fedchenko Glacier lies at high altitudes, with its origins in the high peaks of the Pamirs, where snow accumulates heavily. Despite being situated in a relatively arid region, the glacier's significant size and volume are maintained by substantial snowfall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Named after Alexei Pavlovich Fedchenko, a Russian explorer and naturalist, the glacier was first surveyed in 1928 during Soviet-era expeditions. It plays a crucial role in climate studies, as changes in its length and mass provide insights into the effects of global warming in Central Asia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The glacier is also part of a spectacular and remote landscape, surrounded by towering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-preferred-the-mountains-and-it-changed-our-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> and rugged terrain, making it a key feature of the Pamirs' natural beauty.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-glaciers-worldwide">Threats to glaciers worldwide</h2>



<p>Like many glaciers worldwide, Fedchenko faces the threat of retreat due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peru-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, raising concerns about water availability and ecosystem changes in the region.</p>



<p>Rising global temperatures caused by greenhouse gas emissions are the primary driver of glacier melting. Warmer temperatures not only melt glacier surfaces but also increase the flow of meltwater beneath them, accelerating their disintegration.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-and-pollution-nbsp">Human activities and pollution&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Deforestation and urbanization exacerbate these effects by reducing reflective snow cover and increasing heat absorption in nearby areas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Airborne pollutants like soot and black carbon darken glacier surfaces, reducing their ability to reflect sunlight and speeding up the rate of melting. </p>



<p>Industrial activities and tourism in glacier regions add physical stress and pollution, further degrading these fragile ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-supplies">Water supplies</h3>



<p>The loss of glaciers has far-reaching consequences. It disrupts freshwater supplies for millions of people who depend on glacial runoff for drinking water, agriculture, and hydropower.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-sea-levels">Rising sea levels</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melting glaciers</a> contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide. Additionally, the loss of glaciers impacts biodiversity, as many species rely on cold, glacial habitats for survival.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-glaciers">Protecting glaciers</h3>



<p>Efforts to mitigate these threats focus on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-hidden-sources-of-greenhouse-gases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas</a> emissions, protecting glacier regions from industrial exploitation, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, without urgent action, the continued decline of glaciers will have profound implications for the planet's climate, water systems, and ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pamir-mountains-nbsp">The Pamir Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Pamir Mountains, often called the "Roof of the World," are a vast and rugged mountain range located in Central Asia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They span across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan, forming a vital part of the junction where the Himalayas, the Tian Shan, the Karakoram, the Kunlun, and the Hindu Kush converge.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With peaks soaring over 7,000 meters, including Ismoil Somoni Peak, the range is home to some of the highest altitudes on Earth.</p>



<p>The Pamir Mountains have been central to trade and cultural exchange for centuries, serving as a critical segment of the ancient Silk Road.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Today, the mountains are a popular destination for trekkers and explorers drawn by their breathtaking beauty and challenging terrain.</p>



<p>The Pamirs are not only a natural wonder but also a biological treasure trove, supporting unique wildlife that is adapted to extreme altitudes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Culturally, the mountains are home to diverse communities, each with its unique traditions and ways of life, shaped by the harsh but majestic environment.</p>



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



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Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the spiral galaxy IC 5332, which is located over 29 million light-years away from Earth.</p>



<p>The galaxy spans approximately 66,000 light-years in diameter. This makes it notably smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is just over 100,000 light-years in diameter. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-look-at-ic-5332">Unprecedented look at IC 5332</h2>



<p>In a stunning photo release by NASA and ESA in 2022, the spiral galaxy IC 5332 was presented in an unprecedented level of detail. The images were captured by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-incredible-new-image-of-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>.</p>



<p>This feat was made possible through the use of the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captures images in the mid-infrared spectrum.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-perspective-from-earth">Unique perspective from Earth</h2>



<p>One of the most striking features of IC 5332, as revealed by these observations, is its almost perfect face-on orientation relative to Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This unique perspective allows astronomers to clearly observe and admire the symmetrical arrangement of its spiral arms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-unveils-ic-5332-in-new-light">Webb unveils IC 5332 in new light</h2>



<p>The clarity of these images represents a significant advancement over previous observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope, which imaged IC 5332 in ultraviolet and visible light.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While Hubble’s images revealed the galaxy’s symmetrical spiral arms, James Webb’s MIRI has unveiled these structures as a complex web of gas that emits infrared light at various temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-miri-instrument-on-james-webb-nbsp">The MIRI instrument on James Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Capturing this range of infrared light is no simple task. It requires highly specialized instruments that must be maintained at extremely cold temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The MIRI instrument on the James Webb Space Telescope is specifically designed for this purpose and performs exceptionally well. Its capabilities allow astronomers to see aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> that are otherwise hidden in other wavelengths.</p>



<p>The detailed images provided by MIRI offer more than just a visual spectacle; they provide valuable data about the composition and temperature of the gases that make up the spiral arms of IC 5332. </p>



<p>This can help scientists understand the processes of star formation within the galaxy and how these processes compare to those in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-finds-hidden-features-of-the-universe-nbsp">Webb finds hidden features of the universe&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The images of IC 5332 served as a critical test of the James Webb Space Telescope’s capabilities in observing the universe in infrared light. </p>



<p>As astronomers continue to explore with Webb’s full suite of instruments, many more hidden features of the universe will be revealed.</p>



<p>The information provided by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-second-most-distant-galaxy-in-pandoras-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> not only expands our understanding of the cosmos but also enhances our appreciation for the complex and beautiful structures that exist in our universe.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies-like-ic-5332">Spiral galaxies like IC 5332</h2>



<p>Spiral galaxies are some of the most visually striking objects in the universe, characterized by their rotating arms that extend from a central nucleus, giving them a distinct spiral appearance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These galaxies are primarily made up of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, and a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. These are often surrounded by a much fainter halo of stars, many of which reside in globular clusters.</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies differ from other galaxy types, such as elliptical and irregular galaxies, in their structure and content. </p>



<p>The spiral arms are sites of ongoing star formation and are brighter than the rest of the disk because of the young, hot stars that are typically found there. The arms appear distinct because of their density waves, which compress the gas and dust, leading to star formation.</p>



<p>The rotation of the spiral arms also contributes to the galaxy's flat shape due to the centrifugal forces acting on the disk. The central bulge can vary in size and often contains older, red stars.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Some spiral galaxies have a bar-shaped structure that extends from the central bulge, making them barred spirals. This bar affects the motion of stars and gas within the galaxy and can influence star formation activity.</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies are an important focus of study because they contain a significant amount of visible matter and play a crucial role in understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their distinct features also make them particularly useful for studying the laws of physics under extreme conditions, such as high densities and velocities.</p>



<p>Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, J. Lee and the PHANGS-JWST and PHANGS-HST Teams</p>



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Spiral galaxy IC 5332: A complex web of gas and light

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



<p>"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."</p>



<p>According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



<p>NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



<p>Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.</p>



<p>“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.</p>



<p>"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-star-formation">More about star formation </h2>



<p>Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.</p>



<p>The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



<p>The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. </p>



<p>The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



<p>Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



<p>Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



<p>The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. </p>



<p>Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

<p>In the journey of aging, the road is often marked by unexpected detours. Some are joyful, such as the birth of a grandchild or new opportunities for personal growth. Others, like the onset of health conditions, can be less than welcome. </p>



<p>Among these, dementia is a ghost that haunts the corridors of our golden years. But new research sheds light on a surprising source of cognitive protection. </p>



<p>The study reveals that the quality of our sleep affects the likelihood of developing dementia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-slow-wave-sleep">Power of slow-wave sleep</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-more-on-weekends-can-reduce-heart-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sleep</a> is not just a monolithic block of inactivity that we schedule into our 24-hour days. It's a rhythmic cycle, subdivided into stages, each with its unique characteristics and functions. Among these, slow-wave sleep plays a starring role.</p>



<p>Slow-wave sleep is the third phase within the typical 90-minute sleep cycle, lasting roughly 20 to 40 minutes.</p>



<p>Think of it as the deep, rejuvenating spa bath of sleep. Your physiological processes and cognitive systems get a thorough pampering during this time. But what benefits does this "spa treatment" bring to our bodies and minds?</p>



<p>Slow-wave sleep serves as a crucial health booster. It helps strengthen our muscles, bones, and immune system, and primes our brains for new learning.</p>



<p>Remarkably, a 2023 study revealed that Alzheimer's patients showed improved memory performance after a healthy dose of slow-wave sleep.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-sleep-and-dementia">Linking sleep and dementia</h2>



<p>Neuroscientist Matthew Pase of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.monash.edu%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monash University</a> has been examining the inner workings of sleep's deepest stage.</p>



<p>"Slow-wave sleep, or deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sleep-day-2024-the-quest-for-a-well-rested-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, supports the aging brain in many ways, and we know that sleep augments the clearance of metabolic waste from the brain, including facilitating the clearance of proteins that aggregate in Alzheimer's disease," said Pase.</p>



<p>So, not only does slow-wave sleep flex our memory muscles, but it also helps keep our brains tidier and healthier. But where does dementia fit into this story?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-dementia-connection">Sleep-dementia connection</h2>



<p>To investigate the correlation between dementia and slow-wave <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wake-up-in-your-dreams-exploring-the-world-of-lucid-dreaming-sleep-science/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, Pase and an international team of researchers scrutinized the records of 346 participants from the Framingham Heart Study.</p>



<p>In particular, the team analyzed data from two sleep studies conducted over a space of approximately five years. This unique dataset, featuring older adults with no initial records of dementia, presented an unrivaled opportunity.</p>



<p>Across the 17-year monitoring period, 52 dementia cases were reported. And those who had recorded a decrease in slow-wave sleep were 27 percent more likely to develop dementia. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decrease-in-slow-wave-sleep">Decrease in slow-wave sleep</h2>



<p>As the researchers burrowed deeper, they noticed something peculiar. Starting around the age of 60, the rate of slow-wave sleep began to drop, peaking between 75 and 80, and then leveling off. </p>



<p>Upon comparing the results of the first and second sleep studies, a correlation emerged. Each percentage point decrease in slow-wave sleep per year was associated with an increase in dementia risk of 27 percent.</p>



<p>And when the focus shifted to Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, the risk jumped to 32 percent.</p>



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



<p>Now, let's take a step back and look at the broader specter of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-sleep-habits-may-age-the-brain-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a>. The Framingham Heart Study also tracks other health markers, such as cardiovascular disease risk factors and loss of hippocampal volume, which is an early indicator of Alzheimer's.</p>



<p>Lower slow-wave sleep levels seemed to indicate a greater hazard of cardiovascular disease, use of sleep-impacting medications, and the presence of the APOE ε4 gene, a notorious accomplice in Alzheimer's.</p>



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



<p>Even though the study has unearthed some compelling insights, it's essential to treat these findings as signposts rather than destinations. The researchers do not claim that a reduction in slow-wave sleep directly induces dementia.</p>



<p>Rather, they propose that dementia-related brain processes might cause sleep loss. To fully comprehend and validate these factors, additional research is needed.</p>



<p>In the meantime, one thing is clear - there's no harm in getting plenty of rest. Quality sleep does a lot more than just refreshing your brain and body; it could potentially be a shield against rampant health issues, including dementia.</p>



<p>The in-depth findings of this study have been published in <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2810957" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>JAMA Neurology.</em></a></p>



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



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Deep sleep protects the aging brain from dementia

In the journey of aging, the road is often marked...

<p>Remember when your mom advised you to eat dinner early? Turns out, she was right all along. A recent study by scientists from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) and Columbia University found evidence that backs up this age-old wisdom.</p>



<p>The study, published in the open access Nature group journal <em>Nutrition &amp; Diabetes</em>, suggests that consuming over 45% of our daily calorie intake after 5 p.m. can lead to increased glucose levels. </p>



<p>This uptick in glucose carries potential health risks, irrespective of a person's weight or body fat levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meal-time-and-glucose-levels">Meal time and glucose levels</h2>



<p>The experiment was conducted at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a>'s Irving Medical Center in New York, under the guidance of Dr. Diana Díaz-Rizzolo, a postdoctoral researcher and member of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the <a href="https://www.uoc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UOC</a>.</p>



<p>"Maintaining high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glucose-the-sweet-secret-to-a-younger-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glucose</a> over long periods of time can have implications including a higher risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes, an increase in cardiovascular risk due to the damage that high glucose levels do to blood vessels, and increased chronic inflammation, which aggravates cardiovascular and metabolic damage," noted Dr. Díaz-Rizzolo.</p>



<p>Until now, it was commonly believed that the primary repercussion of late dinners was weight gain, mostly because people tend to opt for unhealthy, ultra-processed foods at night.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-of-meals">Timing of meals</h2>



<p>However, the importance of this study lies in its ability to demonstrate that the timing of our meals can independently affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/type-2-diabetes-heightens-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glucose</a> metabolism, regardless of the number of calories consumed throughout the day or an individual's weight and body fat level.</p>



<p>For their research, the team examined 26 individuals aged between 50 and 70, who were either overweight or obese and had prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. </p>



<p>They divided the participants into two groups: early eaters who consumed the majority of their daily calories before evening, and late eaters who consumed 45% or more of their calories after 5 p.m. </p>



<p>Despite both groups consuming the same amount of calories and the same types of food, their meal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meal-timing-has-a-major-influence-on-our-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timings</a> were different.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, it was found that late eaters had poorer glucose tolerance despite their weight or diet composition. They also tended to consume larger quantities of carbohydrates and fats in the evening.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-late-eating-affects-glucose">Why late eating affects glucose</h2>



<p>Dr. Díaz Rizzolo, an expert on obesity, diabetes, and aging-related topics, explained the science behind this.</p>



<p>"The body's ability to metabolize glucose is limited at night, because the secretion of insulin is reduced, and our cells' sensitivity to this hormone declines due to the circadian rhythm, which is determined by a central clock in our brain that is coordinated with the hours of daylight and night." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-considerations">Cultural considerations</h2>



<p>It's important to recognize how meal timing varies across cultures, as dietary habits differ widely. For example, Mediterranean cultures often have their largest meal in the late afternoon, while Northern Europeans eat dinner early. </p>



<p>Adapting dietary advice to fit these cultural contexts can improve its effectiveness. Future research should explore how considering cultural, environmental, and social factors in dietary guidance could boost adherence and results, thereby improving global public health.</p>



<p>By understanding meal timing in cultural contexts, dietary recommendations can better fit diverse habits worldwide.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-to-a-healthier-lifestyle">The path to a healthier lifestyle</h2>



<p>This study reveals an essential aspect of our daily nutrition - the timing of our meals.</p>



<p>"Until now, personal decisions in nutrition have been based on two main questions: how much we eat, and what foods to choose. With this study, a new factor in cardiometabolic health is beginning to become increasingly important: when we eat," concluded Dr. Díaz-Rizzolo.</p>



<p>The path to a healthier lifestyle, according to the results of this study, should include a focus on eating the bulk of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-you-eat-can-literally-change-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> during daylight hours. </p>



<p>"The highest levels of calorie intake during the day should be at breakfast and lunch, instead of at teatime and dinner," said Dr. Díaz-Rizzolo.</p>



<p>She also recommends avoiding ultra-processed products, fast food, and carbohydrate-rich foods - especially at night.</p>



<p>While more research is needed to explore the implications of this study further, the results thus far provide food for thought on meal timing and cardiometabolic health.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41387-024-00347-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nutrition and Diabetes</a>.</em></p>



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



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Meal timing has a major influence on our health

Remember when your mom advised you to eat dinner early?...

<p>Pterosaurs, the extinct flying reptiles that soared alongside dinosaurs, are among the most intriguing creatures in Earth's history.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While some later species reached wingspans of up to 10 meters, early pterosaurs were significantly smaller, typically limited to around two meters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, a newly described species, <em>Skiphosoura bavarica</em>, sheds light on the evolutionary steps that allowed these creatures to bridge this size gap and adopt advanced anatomical features.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The discovery, led by David Hone of <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, represents a rare find that enhances our understanding of pterosaur <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-mastered-land-before-dominating-the-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pterosaur-fossil-unlike-any-other">A pterosaur fossil unlike any other</h2>



<p>The name <em>Skiphosoura bavarica</em> translates to “sword tail from Bavaria,” reflecting its distinctive stiff, pointed tail and the southern German region where it was unearthed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>What makes this fossil truly remarkable is its state of preservation. Nearly every bone of the animal has been recovered, and unlike most pterosaur fossils, which are typically flattened, this specimen is preserved in three dimensions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With a wingspan of about two meters - comparable to a golden eagle - <em>Skiphosoura</em> provides a rare glimpse into the morphology of transitional pterosaurs.</p>



<p>“This is an incredible find. It really helps us piece together how these amazing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-flight-feathers-may-reveal-which-dinosaurs-could-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flying animals</a> lived and evolved. Hopefully this study will be the basis for more work in the future on this important evolutionary transition,” Hone said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broad-classification-of-pterosaur-fossils-nbsp">Broad classification of pterosaur fossils&nbsp;</h2>



<p>For over 200 years, scientists have classified pterosaurs into two primary groups. Non-pterodactyloids were early pterosaurs with small heads, short necks, long tails, a short bone in their wing wrists, and a long fifth toe on their feet.</p>



<p>Pterodactyloids were a later species characterized by large heads, long necks, short tails, elongated wrist bones, and a short fifth toe.</p>



<p>While this broad classification was useful, it left significant gaps in understanding how pterosaurs transitioned between these forms. The discovery of in the 2010s helped address some of these questions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These intermediate species revealed that the head and neck adapted first, with other anatomical changes following later. However, scientists were left wondering what occurred immediately before and after the darwinopterans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-the-evolutionary-gap">Bridging the evolutionary gap</h2>



<p><em>Skiphosoura bavarica</em> offers vital clues. Evolutionarily, it stands between darwinopterans and pterodactyloids, displaying a combination of features from both groups.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It possesses the pterodactyloid-like head and neck characteristic of darwinopterans but also exhibits advancements such as a lengthened wrist, a shorter fifth toe, and a reduced tail - though not as pronounced as in later pterodactyloids.</p>



<p>This discovery, combined with a newly reconstructed evolutionary tree, allows researchers to trace the progression of anatomical changes in pterosaurs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study also places the Scottish pterosaur <em>Dearc</em> as a transitional species between early pterosaurs and darwinopterans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Together, <em>Dearc</em> and <em>Skiphosoura</em> complete a nearly unbroken sequence of evolutionary adaptations, providing a step-by-step account of how pterosaurs evolved into the large, advanced forms seen in the later pterodactyloids.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptations-for-larger-sizes">Adaptations for larger sizes</h2>



<p>Interestingly, both <em>Dearc</em> and <em>Skiphosoura</em> are unusually large compared to other species of their time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This suggests that the adaptations that enabled pterodactyloids to achieve enormous sizes - such as larger heads and longer necks - began appearing in transitional forms like <em>Skiphosoura</em>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These changes likely offered advantages such as improved flight capabilities and more efficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-foraging-behavior-changing-climate-warming-waters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foraging</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-pterosaur-fossil-nbsp">Analyzing the pterosaur fossil&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The fossil preparation and analysis were feats of modern technology and expertise. Unlike typical flattened fossils, the three-dimensional preservation of <em>Skiphosoura</em> required meticulous work.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As a preparator, I have worked on more than 60 pterosaur specimens from Solnhofen limestone,” said study co-author Stefan Selzer, who prepared the specimen.</p>



<p>“I recognized during the final prep this specimen showed features that combined characteristics of both major groups of pterosaurs, with the shortened tail as the most important diagnostic feature.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Digital imaging also played a critical role in analyzing the fossil.&nbsp;</p>



<p>René Lauer of the <a href="https://www.lauerfoundationpse.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lauer Foundation for Paleontology, Science, and Education</a> explained: “The specimen was disarticulated with bones of varying quality often overlaid upon one another.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Digital photography of the specimen taken in both visible and UV light significantly aided in the process to identify these elements and to better analyze finer details that were not discernible in normal daylight alone.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-pterosaur-evolution">Redefining pterosaur evolution</h2>



<p>The discovery of <em>Skiphosoura bavarica</em> provides a detailed roadmap of pterosaur evolution, offering insights into how these creatures developed the traits that would eventually enable them to dominate the skies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By clarifying the sequence of anatomical changes, this fossil represents a major milestone in understanding the evolutionary history of pterosaurs.</p>



<p>“Pterosaurs have long been symbols of the unique life of the past. <em>Skiphosoura</em> represents an important new form for working out pterosaur evolutionary relationships and by extension how this lineage arose and changed,” said co-author Adam Fitch, a paleontologist at the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a>.</p>



<p>As researchers continue to study this exceptional find, they hope to uncover even more details about how pterosaurs adapted and thrived in prehistoric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ecosystem-behavior-earth-first-sea-creatures-stirring-water-drove-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is an incredible find. It really helps us piece together how these amazing flying animals lived and evolved,” Hone said.</p>



<p>With <em>Skiphosoura bavarica</em>, scientists have a clearer view of the evolutionary journey that transformed small, early pterosaurs into the majestic flying reptiles of the Mesozoic era, cementing its role as a key link in the story of life on Earth.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)01377-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Current Biology</em></a>.</p>



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



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New fossil fills crucial gap in pterosaur evolution

Pterosaurs, the extinct flying reptiles that soared alongside dinosaurs, are...


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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new data release from the Gaia observatory, which was launched in 2013. The observatory has been mapping our galaxy from Lagrange point 2, creating the most accurate and complete multi-dimensional map of the Milky Way.</p>



<p>&#8220;By now two full sets of data have been released, the first set in 2016 and a second one in 2018. These data contained stellar positions, distances, motions across the sky, and colour information, among others,&#8221; says ESA.</p>



<p>On June 13, 2022 a third full data set was released. ESA said this data release contains even more and improved information about almost two billion stars, Solar System objects and extragalactic sources. </p>



<p>&#8220;It also includes radial velocities for 33 million stars, a five-time increase compared to data release 2,&#8221; explains ESA. &#8220;Another novelty in this data set is the largest catalog yet of binary stars in the Milky Way, which is crucial to understand stellar evolution.&#8221;</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>&#8211;</em><em>&#8212;</em></p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="http://csexton@earth.com"><em>Chrissy Sexton</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>


Gaia is mapping the Milky Way in unprecedented detail