<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features South Korea, where a November storm set a new record for daily snowfall in Seoul.</p>



<p>“Wintry weather arrived in full force in South Korea. In the last week of November 2024, a storm brought record-breaking accumulations of snow to Seoul. The heavy snow disrupted travel and damaged structures in the nation’s capital and surrounding areas,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153649/heavy-snows-in-korea" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“On the morning of November 27, residents of Seoul awoke to 16.5 centimeters (6.5 inches) of new snow. That amount already surpassed the previous daily snowfall record for Seoul in November since records began in 1907, according to news reports.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowfall-across-the-korean-peninsula-nbsp">Snowfall across the Korean Peninsula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Yet, as NASA noted, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-snow-complexity-can-improve-winter-safety/">snow</a> kept flying. By the morning of November 28, Seoul had accumulated a total of 11.3 inches. About 22 miles to the south, the city of Suwon received 17 inches of snow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“When clouds cleared the following day, the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite captured this image, revealing a broad coating of white across the Korean Peninsula,” said NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rare-snowfall-event-in-south-korea-nbsp">Rare snowfall event in South Korea&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Meteorologists attributed this rare event to a sharp contrast between cold northern air and the warmer surface of the Yellow Sea.</p>



<p>Officials said that the temperature difference between the air and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-ocean-temperatures-highest-in-650-years-greatly-harming-coral-reefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface</a> was more profound than normal due to unusual warmth in recent weeks, which likely contributed to the storm’s intensity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-snowfall">Impacts of the snowfall</h2>



<p>“Those who braved the weather around Seoul witnessed landmarks transformed into a winter wonderland. However, the storm grounded hundreds of flights across the country, kept dozens of ferries in port, and snarled traffic,” said NASA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The weight of the snow also toppled trees and damaged greenhouses and other agricultural facilities in areas surrounding Seoul, according to reports.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowfall-in-seoul-south-korea-nbsp">Snowfall in Seoul, South Korea&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Snowfall is not unusual in Seoul, but its frequency and accumulation levels are typically moderate. </p>



<p>Seoul has a temperate climate with cold, dry winters, and snow is a normal part of the season from December to February. However, heavy snowfall is rare, with most snowfalls being light to moderate.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The city averages about 25-30 days of snow per year, with a total accumulation that is far less than what is seen in colder regions of the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-snowfall-patterns-nbsp">Climate change and snowfall patterns&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ski-resorts-face-snow-scarcity-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is altering snowfall patterns globally, with variations in both frequency and intensity - depending on the region. </p>



<p>Warmer average temperatures are shifting precipitation from snow to rain in many areas, particularly in low-lying regions and mid-latitudes. This trend reduces the duration and extent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-has-decreased-in-recent-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow cover</a>, especially at lower elevations. </p>



<p>However, paradoxically, some regions experience heavier snowstorms due to increased atmospheric moisture. Warmer air can hold more water vapor, leading to intense snowfall under the right conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-climate-impacts">Complex climate impacts</h3>



<p>In high-altitude and polar regions, the impact is more complex. Some areas, like the Himalayas and the Arctic, see diminished snowfall because of warmer conditions and melting ice.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conversely, parts of the Arctic and Antarctica may experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increased snowfall</a> due to changes in wind patterns and enhanced evaporation over open waters caused by sea ice loss. </p>



<p>For example, in recent years, storms fueled by unusual temperature differentials have resulted in historic snowfalls in some areas, like the U.S. Northeast and parts of East Asia, as warmer oceans supply more moisture to cold air masses.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifts-in-the-seasons">Shifts in the seasons</h3>



<p>Seasonal timing is also shifting, with snowfalls occurring later in fall and ending earlier in spring. </p>



<p>These changes disrupt ecosystems that rely on consistent snowpacks, affect water resources dependent on snowmelt, and complicate winter activities such as agriculture and tourism.</p>



<p>Overall, the effects of climate change on snowfall are not uniform but are instead influenced by local geography, altitude, and changing weather systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As global temperatures continue to rise, these shifts are expected to intensify, requiring adaptation in water management, infrastructure, and disaster preparedness.</p>



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



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Winter storm set a new snowfall record in Seoul, South Korea

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 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 the galaxy NGC 2090, located approximately 40 million light-years away in the constellation Columba.</p>



<p>NGC 2090 is a stunning spiral galaxy that is notable for its well-defined structure, featuring a bright central core surrounded by tightly wound spiral arms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These arms are filled with young, hot stars and interstellar gas, indicating active star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Captured by the Webb Telescope’s MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the image reveals the galaxy's winding spiral arms and the swirling gas and dust of its disc in magnificent and unique detail, noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-ngc-2090">Observations of NGC 2090</h2>



<p>The galaxy’s spiral pattern is relatively symmetrical, making it a fascinating object of study for astronomers interested in galactic evolution and dynamics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observations of NGC 2090, including those conducted by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-helps-solve-the-mystery-of-a-young-eruptive-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope, have provided valuable insights into the properties of its stellar populations, gas content, and the nature of its spiral structure.</p>



<p>“NGC 2090 was one of many galaxies studied by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to refine the measurement of the Universe’s expansion rate, or ‘Hubble constant,’” said ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This can be done by observing a special type of variable stars named ‘Cepheids’ in relatively nearby galaxies.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-ngc-2090">New insights into NGC 2090</h2>



<p>A Cepheid-based measurement from 1998 indicated that NGC 2090 is 37 million light-years away from Earth. However, the latest measurements suggest that the galaxy is 40 million light-years away.</p>



<p>“Already before that Hubble project in 1998, NGC 2090 had been well studied as a very prominent nearby example of star formation,” noted ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Described as a ‘flocculent’ spiral, this galaxy has a patchy, dusty disc and arms that are flaky or not visible at all. We can see those patterns well in Hubble's visible-light images. However, Webb’s NIRCam near-infrared data reveal the spiral arms with remarkable clarity.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-spiral-galaxies">What are spiral galaxies?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are among the most common and visually striking types of galaxies in the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They are characterized by their flat, disk-like shape with a bright central bulge surrounded by sweeping spiral arms.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-arms-and-central-bulge-nbsp">Spiral arms and central bulge&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The arms of a spiral galaxy are regions where stars, gas, and dust are concentrated, often glowing brightly with the light of young, hot stars that form within them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The central bulge typically contains older stars and can host a supermassive black hole at its core.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Types of spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on how tightly their arms are wound and the size of their central bulge, ranging from tightly wound "Sa" galaxies to loosely wound "Sc" types.</p>



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



<p>The structure of spiral galaxies is maintained by the interplay of gravity and angular momentum, with a rotating disk of stars and gas giving rise to their iconic shape.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They are active sites of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> due to the abundance of gas in their arms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies often have a halo of older stars and globular clusters surrounding their disks, which provides clues about their formation and evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxy">Barred spiral galaxy</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, the galaxy that contains our Solar System, is a prime example of a barred spiral galaxy, a subtype where a bar-shaped structure of stars extends from the central bulge.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Columba is a small and relatively faint constellation in the southern sky, whose name means "dove" in Latin. It was introduced in the late 16th century by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius and first appeared in a celestial atlas by Johann Bayer in 1603.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-jupiter-discovered-in-the-great-bear-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constellation</a> is said to represent the dove sent out by Noah during the biblical flood, tying it to themes of hope and peace.</p>



<p>Columba lies near the larger constellation Canis Major and is bordered by others such as Lepus and Puppis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although it lacks particularly bright stars, its most notable star, Alpha Columbae (also called Phact), shines at a magnitude of approximately 2.6 and is a hot blue-white star. Beta Columbae, another prominent star in the constellation, is a slightly cooler, yellow-white star.</p>



<p>The constellation is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere during the summer months, though it can also be seen from lower latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;</p>



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



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Webb unveils spiral galaxy NGC 2090 in magnificent detail

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the galaxy I Zwicky 18, which was captured in remarkable detail by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>I Zwicky 18 is a blue compact dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> located approximately 59 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-i-zwicky-18">Star formation in I Zwicky 18</h2>



<p>The galaxy is notable for its relatively young appearance and the fact that it contains very few heavy elements. These characteristics indicate that it has experienced little <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> compared to other galaxies of similar age.</p>



<p>“The galaxy was first identified by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky in the 1930’s and resides roughly 59 million light-years from Earth,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. “This galaxy has gone through several sudden bursts of star formation.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to ESA, I Zwicky 18 is typical of the kinds of galaxies that inhabited the early universe and is much smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-star-j1249-36-spotted-trying-to-escape-our-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-telescope-image-of-the-galaxy">Webb telescope image of the galaxy</h2>



<p>“Two major starburst regions are embedded in the heart of the galaxy. The wispy brown filaments surrounding the central starburst region are bubbles of gas that have been heated by stellar winds and intense ultraviolet radiation unleashed by hot, young stars,” noted ESA.</p>



<p>“A companion galaxy resides nearby to the dwarf galaxy, which can be seen at the bottom of the wider-field image. The companion may be interacting with the dwarf galaxy and may have triggered that galaxy's recent star formation.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>ESA explained that the “orange blobs” surrounding the galaxy are the dim glow from ancient fully formed galaxies at much larger distances.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-i-zwicky-18">Key characteristics of I Zwicky 18</h2>



<p>As previously mentioned, the galaxy has a very low abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, suggesting that it has not undergone significant stellar processing.</p>



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



<p>Despite its old age, I Zwicky 18 contains many young, hot stars. This suggests that it might have experienced a burst of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> relatively recently in its history.</p>



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



<p>The galaxy has a high density of gas, which is a prime ingredient for star formation. This gas is mostly in the form of hydrogen.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-characteristics">Unusual characteristics</h3>



<p>Its characteristics are more typical of primordial galaxies found in the early universe, making it a valuable object of study for understanding galaxy formation and evolution.</p>



<p>Ultimately, I Zwicky 18 provides insights into the conditions and processes that might have been prevalent in the early universe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycles-of-stars-and-dust">Life cycles of stars and dust</h3>



<p>The image was captured as part of a Webb program to study the life cycle of dust in I Zw 18.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Scientists are now building off of previous research with Hubble obtained at optical wavelengths, studying individual dusty stars in detail with Webb’s equivalent spatial resolution and sensitivity at infrared wavelengths.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>ESA noted that this galaxy is of particular interest as its content of elements heavier than helium is one of the lowest of all known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in the local universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Such conditions are thought to be similar to those in some of the first star-forming galaxies at high redshift, so the Webb study of I Zw 18 should shed light on the life-cycle of stars and dust in the early universe.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-ursa-major">The constellation Ursa Major </h2>



<p>Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most prominent and easily recognizable constellations in the northern sky. </p>



<p>Its name, "Ursa Major," means "Great Bear" in Latin, and it has been a significant part of various mythologies and star lore across cultures for thousands of years. </p>



<p>One of the most famous asterisms within Ursa Major is the Big Dipper, a group of seven bright stars that form a shape resembling a ladle or dipper. The Big Dipper is often used as a navigation tool because it points to Polaris, the North Star, located in the nearby constellation Ursa Minor.</p>



<p>Ursa Major is best viewed in the northern hemisphere and is circumpolar, meaning it is visible year-round for much of the Northern Hemisphere. Its position changes with the seasons, rotating around Polaris, the North Star.</p>



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



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of retreating glaciers in Alaska, where meltwater is rapidly expanding glacial lakes. The image was captured on August 4, 2024 by the Landsat 8 satellite.</p>



<p>“In parts of Alaska, water is replacing ice. As glaciers thin and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-images-reveal-hidden-retreat-of-arctic-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retreat</a>, meltwater collects at their fronts, forming proglacial lakes. According to an analysis by Mauri Pelto, a glaciologist at Nichols College, three such lakes in the southeastern part of the state have grown rapidly in recent decades,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-glaciers-in-alaska">Retreating glaciers in Alaska</h2>



<p>“A trio of glaciers - Yakutat, Alsek, and Grand Plateau - descend from inland mountains and flow onto the coastal plain southeast of Yakutat borough, ending at Harlequin Lake, Alsek Lake, and Grand Plateau Lake,” noted NASA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The retreat of the glaciers, as well as the growth of the lakes, are visible in the image. When compared to an <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/153000/153638/fastestlake_tm5_19840705_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a> captured by Landsat 5 in the summer of 1984, the changes are even more evident.</p>



<p>NASA elaborated on the extent of the glacier retreat from 1984 to 2024. “During this period, Yakutat Glacier’s main arm retreated 4.3 miles, while Alsek Glacier’s northern and southern arms retreated 3.3 miles and 3.4 miles, respectively. Grand Plateau Glacier’s northern arm lost the most, retreating 4.8 miles.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes-doubled-in-size-nbsp">Glacial lakes doubled in size&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Collectively, the three lakes more than doubled in size over 40 years. In 1984, they covered about 50 square miles. By 2024, they spanned 90 square miles. That’s an area larger than Seneca Lake (67 square miles) - one of the Finger Lakes in New York, which also have a glacial origin,” said NASA.</p>



<p>Pelto noted that the lakes forming in this region are immense - starting at the mountains and spreading toward the coast - making this a new lake district that is unique in our nation.</p>



<p>“Millions of other lakes, named and unnamed, dot the state. But this system has grown fast, so much so that Pelto thinks it might represent the fastest lake growth in the United States this century,” said NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-glacier-retreat-nbsp">Understanding glacier retreat&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Glacier retreat is a significant phenomenon driven primarily by global warming the results from rising greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>. </p>



<p>As temperatures rise, glaciers lose more ice during the summer melt than they can regain in winter snowfall, causing them to shrink over time. This process has profound implications for ecosystems, water resources, and global sea levels.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes">Glacial lakes</h3>



<p>When glaciers retreat, they often leave behind depressions in the landscape that can fill with meltwater, forming glacial lakes. These lakes are typically bounded by natural dams made of rock, ice, or moraine - accumulations of debris left behind by the glacier's movement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over the past century, the number and size of glacial lakes worldwide have increased significantly due to the accelerating pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-glaciers-offer-a-glimpse-of-our-harsh-climate-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> retreat. This trend is especially evident in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Alps, as well as in polar areas such as Alaska and Greenland.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-and-negative-impacts-nbsp">Positive and negative impacts&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Glacial lakes can have both positive and negative impacts. They provide critical water sources for downstream communities, support biodiversity, and sometimes offer opportunities for hydropower development or tourism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, they also pose serious risks. The dams holding back these lakes can fail suddenly, causing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). These catastrophic events can devastate downstream areas, destroying infrastructure, agricultural lands, and habitats while endangering human lives.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes">Monitoring changes</h3>



<p>Understanding glacier retreat and glacial lake formation requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining climate science, hydrology, and geology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Monitoring these changes is essential to mitigate associated risks and adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fperu-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming planet</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-retreat-worldwide">Glacier retreat worldwide</h2>



<p>Studies and satellite observations show that most glaciers in almost all regions of the world are shrinking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Melting glaciers contribute significantly to global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>, which threatens coastal communities and ecosystems.</p>



<p>The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change. Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.</p>



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



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

Aerial,View,Of,Lithium,Fields,Or,Evaporation,Ponds,In,The

<p>In the heart of America, the echoes of the gold rush still resonate. But today, a different kind of rush is underway -- the lithium rush.</p>



<p>As the world craves more renewable energy and electric vehicle usage surges, the demand for lithium has soared, leading geologists on a race against time to track down this highly coveted element.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unexpected-treasure">An unexpected treasure</h2>



<p>In the hot summer of 2023, a group of researchers funded by a mining company discovered what is possibly the largest lithium reserve, nestled in an ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-supervolcano-holds-a-surprising-amount-of-magma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supervolcano</a> on the border between Nevada and Oregon.</p>



<p>Recently, another unexpected lithium deposit was found on the other side of the United States, and it was hidden in a place you wouldn't expect -- the wastewater from Pennsylvania's gas fracking industry.</p>



<p>This may not sound glamorous, but the reality is that this discovery could fulfill nearly half of America’s lithium needs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-should-we-care-about-lithium">Why should we care about lithium?</h2>



<p>Lithium is the superstar element in our renewable energy transition -- a critical component for many technological innovations as we strive to reach carbon neutrality. </p>



<p>As the world moves toward greener energy and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lithium is front and center in the clean energy revolution. </p>



<p>However, the U.S. currently has only one large-scale lithium mine, making it heavily reliant on imports. This discovery would be a real game-changer, to say the least.</p>



<p>Lithium's real claim to fame is its role in rechargeable batteries, the kind that power everything from smartphones to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-vehicles-could-save-billions-in-health-care-costs-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electric vehicles (EVs)</a> and even renewable energy storage systems.</p>



<p>Electric vehicles are becoming more common, and those EVs rely on lithium-ion batteries to store energy efficiently. </p>



<p>Plus, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power need batteries to store energy for when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing. </p>



<p>Securing a steady supply of lithium is key for the U.S. to maintain energy independence and meet its climate goals.</p>



<p>Most of the global lithium supply comes from countries like Australia, Chile, and China, which creates a vulnerability for the U.S. in terms of supply chains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-domestic-ambition-for-lithium">Domestic ambition for lithium</h2>



<p>The U.S. Department of Energy is keen to alter this scenario. Their vision is that, by 2030, all lithium required in the U.S. will be produced domestically. </p>



<p>Of course, this ambition to boost the national lithium industry doesn't come without controversy.</p>



<p>With concerns linked to mining's impact on the natural environment, potential chemical leaks, and infringement on sacred Indigenous lands, striking a balance seems tricky. </p>



<p>And yet, it is undeniable that lithium-ion batteries hold immense promise for the world's transition to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fools-gold-may-be-a-valuable-source-of-lithium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">renewable energy</a> use.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-past">Volcanic past</h2>



<p>Pennsylvania hides an ancient secret beneath its surface. The state rests upon the Marcellus Shale, a sedimentary rock formation that is rich in natural gas. </p>



<p>It was formed nearly 400 million years ago due to volcanic activity. This historic geological event also resulted in a substantial lithium deposit from volcanic ash. </p>



<p>Over time, deep groundwater succeeded in dissolving the lithium in these rocks -- a natural subterranean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-forms-dust-clouds-that-devastate-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a> process.</p>



<p>Justin Mackey, lead author of the study describing the discovery, noted that the wastewater dredged up by fracking activities from these depths contains a surprisingly high quantity of lithium.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lithium-s-connection-to-fracking">Lithium's connection to fracking</h2>



<p>Pennsylvania, due to its geographic location, is a frontline state in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/energy-companies-use-shady-tactics-to-get-landowners-to-allow-fracking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fracking</a>, an activity that breeds multiple environmental and health apprehensions.</p>



<p>Fracking involves drilling an L-shape into the earth to pump water downward, forcing deeper substances, including gas, to the surface.</p>



<p>But, according to Mackey, wastewater from oil and gas is a burgeoning issue. "Right now, it's just minimally treated and reinjected," he stated.</p>



<p>This practice may risk losing the invaluable lithium reserves hidden within. </p>



<p>The research suggests that proper measurement of lithium reserves in fracking wastewater could result in a beneficial alternative use for this waste.</p>



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



<p>Analysts based their findings on data reported by oil and gas companies about elements found in their wastewater. </p>



<p>They considered data from 2012 to 2023, gathered from the wastewater of 515 wells in Pennsylvania.</p>



<p>Their findings indicate that the Marcellus Shale "has the capacity to provide significant lithium yields for the foreseeable future" -- as long as fracking continues.</p>



<p>If researchers can successfully extract even a modest amount of lithium from Pennsylvania's fracking wastewater, it could fulfill over 30 percent of the current U.S. demand.</p>



<p>Although this sounds promising, the potential environmental impact of this extraction process remains unexplored and heavily depends on the continuation of fracking activities.</p>



<p>With global lithium demand expected to surge by 400 percent in the coming decades due to climate goals, the focus now is on navigating the challenges of meeting these needs and the potential environmental implications brought forth by these solutions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovation-coexisting-with-environment">Innovation coexisting with environment</h2>



<p>While the discovery of lithium in Pennsylvania’s fracking wastewater offers a promising avenue to reduce reliance on imports, extracting this valuable resource is far from straightforward. </p>



<p>Current technologies for lithium extraction, such as direct lithium extraction (DLE), are energy-intensive and require significant volumes of water, potentially exacerbating existing environmental issues. </p>



<p>Moreover, the chemical processes involved could pose risks to groundwater quality if not meticulously managed.</p>



<p>Environmental advocates worry about the potential trade-offs. Fracking has already raised concerns about water contamination and seismic activity, and adding lithium extraction to the equation could heighten these risks. </p>



<p>However, researchers are exploring sustainable methods that could mitigate such impacts. For instance, advancements in nanotechnology and filtration systems may offer less invasive ways to extract lithium from wastewater.</p>



<p>As Mackey and his team work on refining the extraction process, questions about scalability loom large. Can these methods be deployed at a scale large enough to meet growing demand without significant environmental harm? </p>



<p>Policymakers and industry leaders will need to navigate this delicate balance, ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at the cost of ecological integrity.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-58887-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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Massive lithium deposit, critical for making batteries, discovered in the U.S.

In the heart of America, the echoes of the gold...

<p>The shape of a bird’s wings offers insights into its lifestyle and abilities. Interestingly, bird wings also tell fascinating stories about nature and islands.</p>



<p>For instance, the albatross has wide, sail-like wings built for soaring over oceans, while the antpitta’s short, stubby wings reflect its preference for brief flights near the ground. However, can the shape of bird wings reveal deeper insights about biodiversity and nature’s organization?</p>



<p>Recent research from Washington University (WashU) in St. Louis suggests it can. The study highlights how bird wing shape - a proxy for long-distance flying ability - influences biodiversity patterns on islands across the globe.</p>



<p>"Our results reveal how a key dispersal trait - bird wing shape - can shape fundamental diversity patterns and island biogeography across scales," said Justin Baldwin, first author of the study. Baldwin recently completed his PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology at <a href="https://washu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WashU</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-wings-and-island-biodiversity">Bird wings and island biodiversity</h2>



<p>Until now, studies on island biodiversity focused mainly on geographic factors, such as an island’s size and its isolation. </p>



<p>These factors significantly affect the number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/island-bird-communities-are-changing-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species found on an island</a>. Larger islands typically host more species due to lower extinction rates, while isolated islands have fewer species because reaching them is challenging.</p>



<p>"To date, most studies have focused on how geographic factors such as area and isolation influence island species-area relationships," Baldwin said. "Our results highlight the importance of trait differences among species, specifically traits related to dispersal ability."</p>



<p>The remarkable theory of island biogeography, introduced by Robert H. MacArthur and Edward O. Wilson 50 years ago, described these patterns. They observed that isolation limits species diversity on islands, while larger areas support more species. </p>



<p>However, the theory assumes all species have similar abilities to disperse and colonize new habitats - an assumption modern ecologists have questioned.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-bird-wing-shape">Measuring bird wing shape</h2>



<p>Baldwin and his co-advisor, Jonathan Myers, explored the potential influence of bird wing shape on island biodiversity. </p>



<p>The researchers utilized a dataset of hand-wing index values, which measure how pointed a bird’s wings are. </p>



<p>Birds with high values, such as swifts and swallows, are excellent fliers capable of covering long distances. In contrast, birds like chickens and wrens with low values are more limited in their flight range.</p>



<p>For their analysis, the experts synthesized data for 6,706 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-birds-diving-petrels-return-home-island-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird species</a> across 3,894 islands. They then calculated species-area relationships for all 11 recognized biogeographical realms and for 248 unique combinations of bird families in specific regions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-and-biodiversity-patterns-on-islands">Birds and biodiversity patterns on islands</h2>



<p>The findings revealed that wing shape significantly influences biodiversity patterns.</p>



<p>"In parts of the world where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-traits-make-birds-more-susceptible-to-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> tend to have low dispersal abilities, the species-area relationships were steep," Baldwin explained. </p>



<p>This means that larger islands in these areas host a sharp increase in species numbers. In regions where birds possess higher dispersal abilities, species-area relationships were flatter, indicating a smaller gain in species numbers with increasing island size.</p>



<p>Additionally, the study identified a phenomenon called diversity saturation. On islands with many bird species equipped for long-distance flights, biodiversity seemed to reach a plateau. </p>



<p>These patterns demonstrate how dispersal traits like wing shape interact with geographic factors to influence biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-bird-conservation">Implications for bird conservation</h2>



<p>Understanding how traits like wing shape affect biodiversity has practical applications. Islands often harbor unique species found nowhere else, making them critical for conservation efforts.</p>



<p>"The theory of island biogeography and species-area relationships have important applications for biodiversity conservation, especially on islands, which often harbor large numbers of endemic species found only within a single island or group of islands," Myers said.</p>



<p>The study’s findings can inform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-100-bird-species-have-been-lost-for-over-a-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation strategies</a> to address challenges such as habitat loss, deforestation, and sea-level rise. By understanding how dispersal traits shape species distribution, conservationists can better predict and mitigate biodiversity loss on islands.</p>



<p>"The ecological and evolutionary processes that determine the steepness of the species-area relationship can be used to predict how and why habitat loss…causes extinctions and biodiversity loss on islands," Myers added.</p>



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



<p>Bird wing shape, a simple yet powerful trait, offers valuable insights into island biodiversity patterns. </p>



<p>This study underscores the importance of considering species-specific traits alongside geographic factors to understand and protect nature. </p>



<p>As researchers continue to explore these relationships, their findings will help guide efforts to preserve the rich and diverse life on our planet’s islands.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ele.70020" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology Letters</a>.</em></p>



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Bird wings have a surprising effect on island biodiversity

The shape of a bird’s wings offers insights into its...

<p>Marine heatwaves are becoming more frequent&nbsp;in a&nbsp;warming world,&nbsp;as rising ocean temperatures trigger these mysterious and damaging phenomena.</p>



<p>The profound effects of marine heatwaves on ecosystems - from coral bleaching to disruptions in biodiversity - explain why scientists believe great urgency&nbsp;is required to understand&nbsp;their development and longevity.</p>



<p>As we grapple with the challenges of climate change, gaining deeper insights into these phenomena will enable us to predict their occurrence more accurately and mitigate their impacts on ocean life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-the-full-picture-of-marine-heatwaves">Getting the full picture of marine heatwaves</h2>



<p>A recently published review paper is shedding new light on this subject. The study, led by scientists ar the <a href="https://www.aims.gov.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Institute of Marine Science</a> (AIMS), explored the 3D structure of marine heat waves.</p>



<p>"Marine heat waves are damaging to critical ecosystems like coral reefs, driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/60-percent-global-coral-reefs-face-bleaching-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass bleaching events</a> like the five we have seen on the Great Barrier Reef since 2016. We need to keep building our understanding of them through sustained and targeted monitoring. This can inform management actions," said study co-author Dr. Jessica Benthuysen.</p>



<p>The research was focused on understanding the intricate systems that make up our oceans. This includes how different data sources can be used to track temperature fluctuations during these events.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assessing-the-impacts-of-marine-heatwaves">Assessing the impacts of marine heatwaves</h2>



<p>During a marine heat wave on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-barrier-reef-is-on-the-brink-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Barrier Reef</a> in February 2020, scientists used a range of data sources to monitor temperature changes. </p>



<p>These included temperature loggers on reefs, weather stations from AIMS, and moorings from the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS).</p>



<p>The AIMS research vessel Cape Ferguson also played a significant role in collecting data. As it traveled across the Reef, it measured surface water temperatures in near real-time.</p>



<p>Furthermore, scientists initiated the targeted deployment of IMOS ocean gliders. This advanced technology provided insights into the depth reached by the marine heat wave.</p>



<p>"Together, these temperature measurements provided a comprehensive dataset for assessing the marine heat wave's characteristics and impacts during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brutal-coral-bleaching-event-strikes-the-great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2020 mass coral bleaching event</a> on the Reef," stated Dr. Benthuysen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-collaboration-for-a-global-problem">Global collaboration for a global problem</h2>



<p>The research paper, titled "A global overview of marine heatwaves in a changing climate," is the result of a dedicated collaboration among an international team of scientists.</p>



<p>They are all part of the Climate and Ocean Variability, Predictability and Change (CLIVAR) project. Dr. Antonietta Capotondi from the University of Colorado Boulder, United States, led the study.</p>



<p>It's not just a matter of having the right tools and methods, it's about having the right people. </p>



<p>This global collaboration highlights science community's ability to bridge boundaries and work together to understand and address a shared problem – the escalating impact of ocean warming on marine ecosystems.</p>



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



<p>As marine heatwaves grow in frequency and intensity, scientists are pushing the boundaries of technology to monitor and predict these disruptive events better.</p>



<p>New tools, like underwater drones, thermal satellite imaging, and machine learning are giving researchers unprecedented access to real-time data.</p>



<p>These advancements reveal not just where heatwaves occur but also how deep they reach and how long they persist, thus offering critical insights into their impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-impacting-marine-life-more-than-we-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>.</p>



<p>Global collaboration through systems such as the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of these technologies.</p>



<p>The ultimate goal is to create early-warning systems that empower industries such as fishing and tourism to take timely action, thereby minimizing damage to marine ecosystems and the economies that depend on them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-heatwaves-and-their-economic-impacts">Marine heatwaves and their economic impacts</h2>



<p>The ripple effects of marine heatwaves extend well beyond the oceans, posing significant challenges for industries like fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism. </p>



<p>Coral bleaching events, often triggered by these heatwaves, devastate marine habitats and disrupt livelihoods. </p>



<p>For example, regions that depend on vibrant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-save-coral-reefs-with-selective-breeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral reefs</a> for tourism suffer financial setbacks when these ecosystems are damaged, while fisheries face declining stocks as marine biodiversity shifts.</p>



<p>To address these challenges, researchers and policymakers are working together to develop strategies that balance ecological preservation with economic stability.</p>



<p>Such&nbsp;efforts range from conserving vulnerable marine areas to&nbsp;repairing damaged habitats and providing for affected communities.</p>



<p>Through&nbsp;both&nbsp;scientific innovation and practical solutions, they&nbsp;seek to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;a sustainable future for ocean ecosystems as well as&nbsp;for the industries&nbsp;dependent&nbsp;on&nbsp;those ecosystems.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01806-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Communications Earth &amp; Environment</em>.</a></p>



<p>Image Credit: AIMS/S. Hahn</p>



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Mapping marine heatwaves to understand their impacts

Marine heatwaves are becoming more frequent&nbsp;in a&nbsp;warming world,&nbsp;as rising ocean...

<p></p>
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<p><br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today&#8217;s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from the </span><a href="https://www.esa.int/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">European Space Agency</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> introduces SpaceBok, a robot created by Swiss students for space exploration. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spacebok has been designed to potentially access new places on the Moon, Mars, or on asteroids.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The robot can jump on all four legs to navigate in low gravity environments.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spacebok is currently being tested in the Automation and Robotics Laboratories (ARL) facilities at ESA’s ESTEC technical center in the Netherlands.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="http://csexton@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chrissy Sexton</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: European Space Agency</span></i></p>

Jumping robot designed to explore space