Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of Mount Nemrut, a volcano located in eastern Turkey near Lake Van.



Mount Nemrut is notable for its immense caldera, which was formed through a series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a>. The caldera, one of the largest in the world, now contains several lakes such as Lake Nemrut.&nbsp;



"The eastern half of the caldera is partially filled by solidified lava flows from past eruptions. Snow cover present at the time of this photo accentuates pressure ridges that formed as the lava was flowing and cooling," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"These pressure ridges vary in size, thickness, and orientation due to the varying viscosity and flow direction of the lavas during eruptions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-lake-nemrut">Formation of Lake Nemrut</h2>



"Lake Nemrut (Nemrut Gölü) occupies the western half of the caldera, creating a rough crescent shape that partially submerges the old lava flows," said NASA.



"This freshwater lake, reaching up to 176 meters deep, is accompanied by a smaller lake at the upper-center of the caldera."



The lake was formed after the collapse of the Nemrut volcano's summit. This collapse created a massive crater, which gradually filled with water over time, forming the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unesco-world-heritage-site">UNESCO World Heritage Site </h2>



Mount Nemrut and its surroundings are part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological and geological significance.



The site is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species that use the lake as a stopover during migration. The caldera also contains smaller lakes and wetlands, adding to the area's biodiversity.



Lake Nemrut is a popular destination for tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.



Despite its popularity, the lake remains relatively remote and unspoiled, contributing to its appeal as a natural wonder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-nemrut-has-shaped-the-landscape">Mount Nemrut has shaped the landscape</h2>



Geologically, Mount Nemrut is interesting because its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a> have played a key role in shaping the local landscape. 



Its last major eruption occurred around 1441 AD, which indicates that it's not currently active but is considered dormant.



The area around Nemrut is known for its geothermal activity, including hot springs and fumaroles, suggesting that there is still significant heat beneath the surface.



Over thousands of years, various civilizations have inhabited the region around Nemrut, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-a-king">Tribute to a king</h2>



The summit of Mount Nemrut is dominated by a vast funerary mound constructed by King Antiochus I Theos, who ruled the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st century BCE. 



The site was intended to serve as his tomb sanctuary and a place to commemorate the king's vision of divine kingship and unity between Eastern and Western cultures.



The mound, made of loose crushed stones, measures about 50 meters (164 feet) in height and spans a diameter of 150 meters (492 feet), creating an imposing feature visible from afar.



Surrounding the mound are terraces on the eastern, western, and northern sides, each adorned with colossal statues and reliefs. The statues, ranging in height from 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet), represent various deities, including Zeus, Apollo, Hercules, and the goddess Tyche, alongside King Antiochus himself. 



The heads of the statues, many of which have toppled over due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> and erosion, lie scattered around the site, creating an iconic and enigmatic scene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiritual-and-religious-practices">Spiritual and religious practices</h2>



In addition to the statues, inscriptions at Mount Nemrut provide valuable historical information about the kingdom, the king's lineage, and the religious practices of the time.



The site is not only a marvel of ancient engineering but also a spiritual and astronomical center. Scholars believe the terraces were aligned with celestial events, serving as an observatory for solstices and equinoxes.



In addition to its natural and historical significance, the Nemrut volcano has been the subject of scientific study, as researchers aim to understand more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in the region, the history of its eruptions, and the potential risks it may pose in the future.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Mount Nemrut: Ancient mysteries and natural marvels 

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

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



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;



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



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.



“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;



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>.



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



“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,” said ESA.



“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;



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



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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



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



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



“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;



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;



“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.”



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



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



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. 



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.



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.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features massive amounts of smoke rising from multiple wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;



The largest blaze is the Palisades Fire, which ignited near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles on January 7, 2025.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-wildfire-conditions">Explosive wildfire conditions</h2>



The Palisades Fire spread rapidly due to severe drought conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour.&nbsp;



Within hours, the fire expanded from 200 acres to over 2,900 acres, threatening thousands of structures and prompting mandatory evacuations for thousands of residents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-ferocious-winds-in-years">Most ferocious winds in years</h2>



A report from Fox Weather noted: “More than 260,000 people are under some sort of evacuation statement as multiple uncontained wildfires consume everything in their path.”



The news agency said that the fires are fueled by the “most ferocious Santa Ana winds in over 14 years.” The report further noted that “the level of destruction extends both north and south along the coast, with hurricane-force winds that are incredibly strong, dry, and unpredictable.”&nbsp;



As of January 8, the Palisades Fire had rapidly exploded to over 5,000 acres and remained uncontained. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.&nbsp;



“This image captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission vividly depicts the smoke billowing from the fire near Santa Monica at 10:36 local time on January 7, 2025, not long after the fire broke out. The blaze has since caused widespread damage and concern,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/01/Los_Angeles_ablaze" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-damage-and-concern">Widespread damage and concern</h2>



The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has deployed over 1,400 firefighters to combat the blaze. However, the intense winds have hindered aerial firefighting efforts, as aircraft were grounded for safety reasons.&nbsp;



The fire has destroyed more than 1,000 structures, including several homes in Malibu, and has led to significant traffic congestion as residents evacuate the area.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warning-for-extreme-fire-behavior-nbsp">Warning for extreme fire behavior&nbsp;</h2>



On Monday, before the fires broke out, the weather service office in Los Angeles warned that wind gusts could reach 100 miles per hour in some areas this week - creating the potential for "extreme fire behavior.” 



In addition to the Palisades Fire, three other significant blazes include the Eaton Fire in the Altadena region and the Hurst Fire in northern Sylmar. These fires have prompted further evacuations and continue to threaten numerous structures.&nbsp;



"L.A. County and all 29 fire departments in our county are not prepared for this type of widespread disaster," LA County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said at a news conference. "There are not enough firefighters in L.A. County to address four separate fires of this magnitude."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-hurricane-of-fire">A hurricane of fire</h2>



High wind warnings and red flag warnings in effect across the region indicate that the critical fire weather conditions are ongoing.&nbsp;



Residents are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to evacuation orders, and stay informed through official channels as the situation evolves.



"Winds will not die down much until noon on Wednesday around Los Angeles," said meteorologist Ryan Maue on X. "The worst is yet to come in next few hours with 80-105 mph gusts. This is a hurricane of fire."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-in-southern-california-nbsp">Wildfires in Southern California&nbsp;</h2>



Wildfires in Southern California are particularly severe due to a combination of factors. The region’s hot, dry climate creates ideal conditions for fires, especially during the summer and fall when vegetation is parched.&nbsp;



Seasonal Santa Ana winds exacerbate the problem by driving flames rapidly across the landscape, making fires difficult to contain. The area's diverse and often dense vegetation, such as chaparral and grasslands, provides abundant fuel.&nbsp;



Furthermore, Southern California’s growing urban footprint increases the risk of fires igniting due to human activity, while also placing more people and infrastructure in harm’s way.&nbsp;



Climate change intensifies these challenges by extending fire seasons and increasing the frequency of extreme heat and drought events, creating a feedback loop that makes wildfires increasingly destructive.



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Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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Explosive wildfires in California fueled by hurricane-force winds

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Ksudach, a remarkable volcanic complex located on Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula.



“The peninsula is one of the world’s most active volcanic arcs due to tectonic plate movement, with the Pacific Plate subducting under the Eurasian Plate,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153779/ksudachs-nested-calderas-and-craters" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-eruptions-of-ksudach">Explosive eruptions of Ksudach</h2>



Ksudach is classified as a shield <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-camera-helps-scientists-forecast-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> due to the gentle slopes formed by its extensive lava flows. The combination of its shield-like structure and the prominent caldera system makes Ksudach a unique volcanic feature on the Kamchatka Peninsula.



“Several overlapping calderas and craters comprise the volcano. Calderas are large, bowl-shaped depressions created by the collapse of overlying material into an emptied subsurface magma chamber,” explained NASA.



“Craters are circular depressions created by volcanic activity, surface impacts, or explosions.”



This volcanic system has a fascinating geological history shaped by multiple explosive eruptions.&nbsp;



The most significant of these occurred around 240 AD, leaving behind a prominent caldera that now hosts scenic crater lakes, such as Lake Ksudach. 



“Lakes within the volcanic region are primarily recharged by rain and snowmelt from the winter season. This photo shows the water’s contrasting blue hues surrounded by green vegetation,” noted NASA.



“Traces of snow fill valleys within and outside the volcano’s caldera complex. These snow-covered areas highlight the drainage patterns from higher to lower elevations. Water that flows through these erosional pathways and into the caldera supports its vegetation and lakes.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-landscape-of-ksudach-nbsp">Unique landscape of Ksudach&nbsp;</h2>



Ksudach's landscape also features pyroclastic deposits, lava flows, and hydrothermal features like fumaroles.&nbsp;



The surrounding environment - which is part of the UNESCO-listed Kamchatka Volcanoes - supports a diverse ecosystem with unique wildlife. 



Despite its remote location, Ksudach has drawn the attention of geologists, offering insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic processes</a> and the dynamics of caldera formation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-earth-s-geology-nbsp">Dynamic nature of Earth's geology&nbsp;</h2>



The most well-documented eruption of Ksudach occurred in March 1907. This eruption ranks as one of the largest in Kamchatka in the 20th century, with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 5.



The eruption produced a colossal ash column that soared into the stratosphere, dispersing fine particles over vast distances and contributing to global atmospheric changes.&nbsp;



The sheer force of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/icelands-volcanic-eruptions-may-continue-for-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruption</a> unleashed pyroclastic flows - fast-moving avalanches of hot gas, ash, and volcanic debris - that raced down the volcano's slopes, obliterating everything in their path.&nbsp;



These flows, capable of reaching temperatures over 1,000°C, decimated vegetation and altered the topography of the surrounding region.&nbsp;



Simultaneously, tephra deposits blanketed the landscape in layers of thick volcanic material, smothering ecosystems and creating a barren wasteland.&nbsp;



Today, Ksudach is considered an active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> but remains dormant. The region is closely monitored due to its potential for renewed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pacific-ring-of-fire-nbsp">Pacific Ring of Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The Kamchatka Peninsula lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped zone encircling the Pacific Ocean where tectonic activity is highly concentrated.&nbsp;



This geologically dynamic area features numerous volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, and frequent seismic activity - making it a hotspot for both natural beauty and scientific study. 



Kamchatka is home to over 160 volcanoes, with about 30 considered active, including Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the highest and one of the most active in the region.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-activity-nbsp">Volcanic activity&nbsp;</h3>



As the Pacific Plate dives into the Earth's mantle, it melts and generates magma that feeds Kamchatka’s volcanic systems.&nbsp;



This ongoing tectonic interaction also contributes to the broader activity of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which accounts for approximately 75% of the world's active and dormant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> and about 90% of its earthquakes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-significance-nbsp">Broader significance&nbsp;</h3>



Beyond its geological significance, the Kamchatka Peninsula boasts a diverse ecosystem that is home to animals such as snow sheep, brown bears, red foxes, and unique plants that are adapted to its harsh environment. 



The coastal waters surrounding the peninsula support various fish species, including abundant salmon, as well as sea lions and killer whales.



The interplay of volcanic landscapes and pristine wilderness makes it a natural laboratory for understanding Earth's dynamic processes.



The image was captured by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Ksudach: A volcano shaped by explosive forces

Montana rancher Arthur “Jack” Schubarth has been handed a six-month prison sentence for smuggling and using genetic material from protected sheep to create larger-than-average hybrids.&nbsp;



The 81-year-old, who owns a 215-acre livestock ranch, aimed to sell these gigantic sheep to commercial hunting sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smuggling-rare-sheep-genetics">Smuggling rare sheep genetics</h2>



The initial plan stretched over several years, beginning around 2013. <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/montana-man-sentenced-federal-wildlife-trafficking-charges-part-yearslong-effort-create" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Court documents</a> show that Schubarth brought parts of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marco_Polo_sheep" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marco Polo argali sheep</a> into the country from Kyrgyzstan without lawful documentation.



He saw a business opportunity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-are-using-forensic-science-to-fight-wildlife-trafficking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeding</a> this majestic animal, known for its lengthy, curling horns and hefty size. 



He hoped a hybrid species would fetch more money in captive hunting markets, which feature exotic or oversized animals for high-paying clients.



Crossbreeding non-native sheep can threaten nearby wild herds by introducing diseases or interbreeding with local species.&nbsp;



These animals are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (<a href="https://cites.org/eng/disc/what.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CITES</a>) and the <a href="https://www.fws.gov/law/endangered-species-act" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Endangered Species Act </a>and are banned in Montana to safeguard native sheep from disease and genetic mixing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illegal-sheep-hybrid-aimed-at-profit">Illegal sheep hybrid aimed at profit</h2>



Once Schubarth sneaked the argali parts into Montana, he delivered genetic samples to a laboratory that transformed them into embryos. 



These embryos were then implanted in ewes on his ranch. In a single instance, the outcome was a pure genetic Marco Polo argali, nicknamed Montana Mountain King (MMK).&nbsp;



Schubarth began selling MMK’s semen to out-of-state <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rats-can-sniff-out-horns-and-tusks-to-combat-wildlife-trafficking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breeders</a>. He also used it on different species of ewes to get an even larger hybrid, despite strict prohibitions on such animals within Montana.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-laws-and-monetary-motive">Wildlife laws and monetary motive</h2>



Schubarth violated the <a href="https://fws.gov/law/lacey-act" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lacey Act</a>, a federal law banning interstate trade of wildlife taken or sold unlawfully. He also offended Montana <a href="https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/2013/mca/81/2/81-2-703.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statutes</a> that forbid bringing in certain animals and forging health certificates.&nbsp;



“Schubarth’s criminal conduct is not how Montanans treat our wildlife population,” said <a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/meet-us-attorney" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jesse Laslovich</a>, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hybrid-sheep-threaten-local-wildlife">Hybrid sheep threaten local wildlife</h2>



The risk of contagious diseases was a major concern. <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/print/pdf/node/1944#:~:text=Johne's%20disease%20is%20a%20contagious,agents%20of%20leprosy%20and%20TB." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johne’s disease</a>, a chronic wasting illness that spreads easily among hooved animals, appeared in some of Schubarth’s stock.



If infections had spread to Montana’s native bighorn sheep, entire herds could have been harmed. Bighorns are already vulnerable, and hybridization can damage their genetic integrity, according to ongoing research in wildlife ecology.



“This case exemplifies the serious threat that <a href="https://www.ice.gov/features/wildlife" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife trafficking</a> poses to our native species and ecosystems,” said Assistant Director <a href="https://www.fws.gov/staff-profile/edward-grace" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edward Grace</a> of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement.&nbsp;



The Marco Polo argali itself is protected under the Endangered Species Act and monitored internationally by CITIES.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-illegal-crossbreeding">Consequences of illegal crossbreeding</h2>



Schubarth's focus on profit over preservation has led to serious consequences for creating illegal sheep hybrids.



Aside from serving six months in federal prison, the rancher must pay a $20,000 fine to the Lacey Act Reward Fund and make a $4,000 payment to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (<a href="https://www.nfwf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFWF</a>).



Officials say he put not only argali and bighorn sheep at risk but also any future livestock he managed. Mixing genetics of endangered or prohibited species can set dangerous precedents that undermine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>.



Beyond the fines, authorities intended to send a message. Schubarth’s case highlights how U.S. agencies cooperate to shut down smuggling rings and ensure penalties match the seriousness of the crime.&nbsp;



Federal investigators teamed up with Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to track the evidence, coordinate arrests, and charge every participant involved in the illegal commerce.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stark-warning-for-wildlife-traffickers">Stark warning for wildlife traffickers</h2>



For many wildlife advocates, this outcome serves as a reminder that creating hybrids of animals like sheep, or manipulating protected species for financial gain, carries hefty penalties.



Conservation groups caution that unscrupulous breeders often endanger entire ecosystems by introducing diseases and weakening local genetic pools.&nbsp;



Though Schubarth insisted his intentions were business-oriented, officials say entrepreneurs must <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-animal-rights-day-2024-honoring-animals-with-justice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">respect boundaries</a> set by the Lacey Act and other legal frameworks designed to guard both animals and habitats.



In a letter presented at sentencing, Schubarth admitted he let his enthusiasm push him to search for loopholes to craft the “best sheep” for the market.&nbsp;



The court weighed his age and clean record, but <a href="https://www.mtd.uscourts.gov/chief-judge-brian-morris-chambers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Judge Brian Morris</a> made it clear that tampering with nature purely for profit will be addressed with firm legal action.



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



His story highlights the vital need for careful oversight. Biologists believe that preserving the true character of wild populations is crucial for maintaining healthy herds, balanced ecosystems, and future research opportunities.&nbsp;



Any intrusion that disrupts established conservation measures could produce a cascade of negative effects that may be impossible to reverse.



Information for this article was obtained from a <a href="https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/montana-man-sentenced-federal-wildlife-trafficking-charges-part-yearslong-effort-create">press release</a> by the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Department of Justice.



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US rancher who cloned giant sheep for trophy hunting is sent to federal prison

Montana rancher Arthur “Jack” Schubarth has been handed a six-month...

Billions of years ago, in the icy outskirts of our solar system, two celestial bodies collided. Instead of a catastrophic destruction, they united briefly, spinning together like a cosmic snowman. This "kiss and capture" scenario led to the formation of Pluto and its moon, Charon, as we know them today. 



A recent study from the University of Arizona has challenged long-held assumptions, shedding light on how these two icy worlds became a binary system.



Adeene Denton, a NASA postdoctoral fellow at the U of A Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, led the research. Her team revealed an overlooked factor in planetary collision models: the structural strength of rock and ice in small, cold worlds like Pluto and Charon. 



“Pluto and Charon are different - they're smaller, colder, and made primarily of rock and ice. When we accounted for the actual strength of these materials, we discovered something completely unexpected,” Denton explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pluto-and-charon-s-unique-collision">Pluto and Charon’s unique collision</h2>



For many years, scientists thought Charon, Pluto’s largest moon, formed in a way similar to Earth’s moon. They believed a massive collision caused the bodies to deform and stretch, behaving like molten or fluid materials. 



This model worked for Earth and its moon because of the high temperatures and larger masses involved, which allowed the materials to flow and reshape easily.



However, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pluto-may-not-be-real-planet-but-has-real-big-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pluto</a> and Charon are smaller, colder, and primarily composed of ice and rock, which are much more rigid than molten material. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kiss-and-capture-mechanism">Kiss and capture mechanism</h2>



Using advanced computer simulations, the researchers discovered that when Pluto and proto-Charon collided, they didn’t behave like fluids. Instead, they temporarily stuck together, forming a snowman-shaped structure.



Over time, they separated but remained gravitationally linked, creating the binary system we observe today. This unique "kiss and capture" process differs significantly from traditional models of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a> formation.



"Most planetary collision scenarios are classified as 'hit and run' or 'graze and merge.' What we've discovered is something entirely different – a 'kiss and capture' scenario," said Denton. 



Unlike traditional models, this mechanism placed Charon in a stable orbit around Pluto, perfectly matching observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserved-integrity-and-internal-heating">Preserved integrity and internal heating</h2>



The study also revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/">Pluto</a> and Charon remained mostly intact during their collision. This preservation of original composition challenges older models suggesting extensive mixing and deformation. 



Additionally, the collision generated tidal forces that deposited significant heat into both bodies. This heating may have enabled Pluto to develop a subsurface ocean without requiring early solar system conditions that troubled past theories.



“The compelling thing about this study is that the model parameters that work to capture Charon end up putting it in the right orbit. You get two things right for the price of one,” noted Erik Asphaug, senior author of the study.



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



This discovery paves the way for new research into Pluto and Charon's formation and evolution. The team plans to study how tidal forces - created as the two bodies separated after their collision - affected their early development.



The experts aim to understand how this impact influenced Pluto’s surface features, such as its mountains and plains, and whether it contributed to the formation of a subsurface ocean.



Additionally, researchers want to explore whether similar "kiss and capture" processes could explain the creation of other binary systems in the universe. 



According to Denton, understanding how the collision’s aftermath shaped Pluto’s geology could reveal more about its surface and internal structure.



This work may shed light on the broader mechanisms driving planetary formation and evolution in icy, distant regions of the solar system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pluto-and-charon-reshape-planetary-system-theories">Pluto and Charon reshape planetary system theories</h2>



The "kiss and capture" origin story of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pluto-got-its-heart-in-a-violent-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pluto</a> and Charon challenges older theories about how planetary systems form. It introduces a new way to think about collisions in space, showing how two bodies can briefly stick together before settling into a stable orbit. 



This discovery changes how we understand not only Pluto and Charon’s history but also how similar systems might have formed throughout the universe. 



By exploring this idea further, scientists hope to uncover more about the processes that shape planets, moons, and other celestial bodies - offering fresh insights into the mysteries of our solar system and beyond.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01612-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Pluto and Charon formed through a 'kiss and capture' collision

Billions of years ago, in the icy outskirts of our...

The world watches as the Great Salt Lake, one of Earth's largest saline lakes, deteriorates. 



Over the past 30 years, the lake has lost a staggering 15 billion cubic yards (11.4 billion cubic meters) of water. It has grown shallower at the rate of 4 inches (10 cm) each year.



This rapid depletion isn't a natural mystery. Decades of unsustainable water diversion, combined with increasing demand and a changing climate, have pushed the lake to a breaking point.



Agriculture is a major contributor to this dire situation, particularly in the case of livestock feed crops.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-depletion-of-great-salt-lake">Rapid depletion of Great Salt Lake </h2>



A recent study published in the journal Environmental Challenges reveals a shocking statistic. Approximately 62% of the river water heading towards Great Salt Lake gets diverted for human usage.



Agricultural activities are the primary culprits, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the water diverted.



“The research highlights the alarming role of water consumption for feeding livestock in driving the lake’s rapid depletion," explained William Ripple, a professor of ecology at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and co-author of the study.



Almost 80% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-water-scarcity-is-about-to-get-much-worse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural water</a> use is for irrigating alfalfa and hay crops - the primary feed for livestock.



This level of diversion not only depletes the lake's vital inflows but also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of current agricultural practices in the region.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-great-salt-lake">Significance of Great Salt Lake</h2>



The importance of Great Salt Lake extends far beyond its beauty or agricultural use.



As one of the world's largest saline lakes, it plays important ecological, economic, cultural, and spiritual roles - all of which are in grave danger due to the dramatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-great-salt-lake-has-reached-historically-low-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline in lake levels</a> during the past decades.



Data from the Utah Division of Water Resources shows a disturbing trend. From 1989 to 2022, consumption and evaporation consistently outpaced inflows from river water and precipitation.



This imbalance has created an annual deficit of approximately 500 million cubic yards (380 cubic meters), which has further accelerated the lake's decline.



The water budget has faced a persistent deficit for most of the past century. The situation has been exacerbated by the growing impacts of climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prolonged drought</a>, according to the researchers.



“Abnormally large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snowmelt-changes-may-greatly-affect-farmers-in-western-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowmelt</a> inflow during the 1980s and 1990s served to temporarily obscure the long-term decline in lake levels, and the lake actually reached its highest level in more than a century in 1987,” explained Professor Ripple. “But it has been dropping by roughly 4 inches per year on average since then.”



Great Salt Lake is the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere and ranks eighth globally. Its 21,000-square-mile drainage basin, which includes the Wasatch Mountains, relies heavily on snowfall for water replenishment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-from-declining-lake-levels">Threats from declining lake levels</h2>



Great Salt Lake is also a biodiversity hotspot, hosting over 10 million migrating birds and an estimated 350 different species of birds. These habitats are threatened by declining lake levels.



In addition, the lake creates $2.5 billion in annual economic activity. Recreation, mining, and the harvesting of brine shrimp support more than 9,000 jobs. As salinity levels increase, however, brine shrimp experience extreme stress.



Human health also suffers as the Lake shrinks, with wind-carried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-drying-up-causing-major-dust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust from the exposed saline lakebed</a> causing a range of pulmonary problems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-great-salt-lake">Saving Great Salt Lake</h2>



To halt this alarming trend and start refilling the lake, a 35% reduction of human water consumption in the Great Salt Lake watershed by 35% has been proposed.



This includes a significant cut in irrigated alfalfa production, a fallowing of much of the region’s irrigated grass hay fields, and taxpayer-funded compensation for affected farmers and ranchers.



Conservation measures such as crop shifting, reducing municipal and industrial use, and leasing water rights from irrigators have also been proposed.



The impacts of these changes will be significant, and will affect as many as 20,000 farmers and ranchers in the basin. However, the situation presents an opportunity to set a precedent for addressing water scarcity globally.



“The economic and cultural adjustments required are significant but not insurmountable. With the right policies and public support, we can secure a sustainable future for the Great Salt Lake and set a precedent for addressing water scarcity globally,” concluded Professor Ripple.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2667010024002312" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Challenges</a>.



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Great Salt Lake: Agriculture is draining a natural wonder

The world watches as the Great Salt Lake, one of...

<div id="5905f079f5bcb1100a108ae3" class="vdb_player vdb_59084f8f3b94c70e8b19305f58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"></div>
Today’s Video of the Day comes from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society’s</a> Reactions series and features a look at how marijuana actually works.
As you may already know, THC is the active ingredient in marijuana and is responsible for the high you feel after ingesting or inhaling. The THC gets absorbed into your bloodstream and then travels to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-store-memories/">brain</a>, where it attaches itself to cannabinoid receptors. 
These receptors usually receive chemical signals from other cells to express feelings like pain, euphoria, or nausea. But when the THC attaches, it prevents the natural chemicals from expressing these feelings, alleviating such instances of pain and nausea. 
&#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a>
Source: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ukdUDCE56c">American Chemical Society</a>

How does marijuana work?