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.



“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>.



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



“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;



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.



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.”



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



“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.



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.



“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.



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



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>.&nbsp;



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.



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



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;



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.



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



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;



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.



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



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



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>.



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



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



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.



The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change.&nbsp;Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Mountain peaks and plains of central Mongolia 

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Spiral galaxy NGC 1559 is a loner in outer space

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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

The Moon, Earth’s eternal companion, continues to captivate scientists. Despite decades of research and lunar missions, one fundamental question remains unresolved: how old is the Moon? 



Current estimates suggest the Moon formed around 4.35 billion years ago, but some evidence hints at an older age that is closer to 4.51 billion years.



This discrepancy has fueled debates and inspired new research, including a recent study proposing that the Moon underwent a "volcanic facelift" billions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-the-moon-s-age">Mystery of the Moon's age</h2>



Lunar rock samples brought back by missions like <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/specials/apollo50th/missions.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apollo</a> have provided crucial insights. These samples indicate that the Moon formed about 200 million years after the solar system’s formation.



However, this timeline seems inconsistent with the chaotic early days of the solar system, during which debris coalesced into planets. 



By the time the Moon supposedly formed, most debris had already merged into larger celestial bodies, making a late-forming Moon improbable.



Adding to the mystery, zircon minerals on the Moon suggest an age of up to 4.51 billion years. This mismatch between lunar rock ages and thermal models has puzzled researchers for years. 



Now, scientists may have an explanation: a massive remelting event caused by tidal forces could have "reset" the Moon's geological clock.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-tidal-heating">The role of tidal heating</h2>



In a paper published in the journal Nature, a team led by Professor Francis Nimmo from <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Santa Cruz</a> explored how tidal forces may have reshaped the Moon's geological history.



“We predict that there shouldn't be any lunar rocks that are older than 4.35 billion years because they should have experienced the same resetting,” said Nimmo.



Tidal heating occurs when gravitational forces create internal friction within a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial body</a>, which generates heat. In the Moon's early history, its proximity to Earth likely amplified these effects.



The researchers propose that around 4.35 billion years ago, the Moon's orbit became unstable, leading to intense tidal forces. This caused widespread volcanic activity that altered the Moon’s surface and reset the age of its rocks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-jupiter-s-moon-io">Insights from Jupiter's moon Io</h2>



The study draws parallels between the Moon’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-may-have-captured-the-moon-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">past</a> and the current volcanic activity on Jupiter’s moon Io, the most volcanically active body in the solar system.



Io’s elliptical orbit around Jupiter creates tidal forces that heat its interior, driving constant eruptions. Similarly, early tidal heating could have caused the Moon’s mantle to churn, thus melting and reshaping its crust.



The intense volcanic activity likely erased evidence of earlier impacts and geological features. 



According to the researchers, this explains why fewer impact basins are visible on the Moon’s surface than are predicted by models for an older Moon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-the-moon-s-age">New perspective on the Moon's age</h2>



Using advanced modeling, Nimmo’s team showed that tidal heating events could have melted significant portions of the Moon’s crust, resetting the ages of most lunar rocks to around 4.35 billion years. 



This process left only a few heat-resistant zircons as remnants of the Moon's earlier history.



“The strong volcanism likely reset the Moon's geological clock,” said Thorsten Kleine, a co-author of the study.



The findings suggest that the Moon itself formed between 4.43 and 4.51 billion years ago, but intense volcanic activity reshaped its crust around 4.35 billion years ago.



This revised timeline resolves contradictions between lunar rock samples, thermal models, and the scarcity of impact basins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-data-from-unexplored-lunar-regions">Valuable data from unexplored lunar regions</h2>



The study highlights the importance of tidal heating in shaping the Moon’s geological history. 



Nimmo emphasized the need for more detailed simulations and new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-lost-its-mini-moon-2024-pt5-may-have-come-from-our-main-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar</a> samples to refine these findings. "We hope that our findings will spark further discussion and exploration,” he said. 



Upcoming missions, like China’s Chang’e 6, are expected to provide valuable data from previously unexplored lunar regions.



These fresh samples could confirm whether a global remelting event did indeed reset the Moon’s geological clock. 



The researchers also plan to investigate how tidal heating affected the Moon’s interior and surface composition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanism-reset-the-moon-s-age">Volcanism reset the Moon's age</h2>



The new findings offer a unifying explanation for several longstanding lunar mysteries. They indicate that volcanism may have reset the ages of lunar rocks and also erased evidence of early impacts and altered the composition of the Moon’s mantle.



“The new results mean that all the pieces of the puzzle that previously didn’t fit together now form a coherent overall picture of the Moon's formation,” said Kleine.



Determining the Moon’s age is crucial for understanding not just its history but also the broader story of the solar system. 



If the Moon’s true age remains elusive, it raises questions about the accuracy of dating methods used for other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-composition-of-moons-interior-core-its-not-green-cheese/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial bodies</a>. 



With ongoing and future lunar missions, scientists are hopeful that the Moon will finally reveal its secrets, illuminating the early history of our cosmic neighborhood.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08231-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Earth's moon is much older than we thought, according to new evidence

The Moon, Earth’s eternal companion, continues to captivate scientists. Despite...

Desert locusts are notorious for their ability to transform from solitary insects into devastating swarms under specific environmental conditions. 



Triggered by events like intense rainfall, these swarms can devastate crops, pushing food prices higher and leading to starvation and unrest. But now, a new study offers hope for controlling this menace.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-extent-of-the-problem">The extent of the problem</h2>



Locust swarms are one of nature's most destructive phenomena. Under favorable conditions, locusts form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/locusts-have-brains-built-for-complex-odor-processing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large groups</a>, known as swarms, that can devastate entire regions. 



These swarms can grow so massive that they resemble plagues, consuming staggering amounts of crops in their path.



To put this into perspective, a swarm covering just one square kilometer can eat enough food in a single day to feed 35,000 people.



This destruction severely impacts smallholder farmers, who rely on their crops for food and income. Regions like Africa and Asia, where food security is already fragile, are especially vulnerable. The loss of crops not only disrupts local economies but also threatens millions with hunger.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-locust-swarms-are-becoming-more-frequent">Locust swarms are becoming more frequent </h2>



The problem is worsening due to climate change. Increased cyclones and heavy rainfall, driven by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-are-in-a-race-against-time-to-save-our-food-supply-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, create ideal breeding conditions for locusts. These events bring moisture to arid regions, encouraging vegetation growth that provides food for locusts. 



As a result, locust outbreaks are becoming more frequent and severe, posing an even greater threat to food security in vulnerable regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-locust-swarms-in-advance">Predicting locust swarms in advance</h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have developed a predictive model to tackle locust swarms.



Using weather forecast data from the UK <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Met Office</a> and computational models of locust behavior, the system predicts where swarms will move in their search for food and breeding sites. The results enable early interventions, such as targeted pesticide applications.



"During a desert locust outbreak, we can now predict where swarms will go several days in advance, so we can control them at particular sites," said Dr. Renata Retkute, the lead researcher from Cambridge’s Department of Plant Sciences. 



"And if they're not controlled at those sites, we can predict where they'll go next so preparations can be made there."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-locust-control">New era of locust control</h2>



Until now, locust swarm predictions have been inconsistent. The researchers’ model represents a shift toward more effective responses. 



By integrating real-time data on locust lifecycles, breeding behaviors, and weather patterns, the model offers both short- and long-term predictions.



"The important thing is to respond quickly if there's likely to be a big locust upsurge, before it causes a major crop loss. Huge swarms can lead to really desperate situations where people could starve," said Professor Chris Gilligan, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-past-locust-swarms">Lessons from past locust swarms</h2>



The urgency of this innovation stems from a massive locust upsurge from 2019 to 2021, which stretched from Kenya to India.



This event devastated key crops like wheat, maize, and sugarcane, leaving many communities struggling. The response was hampered by disjointed information, revealing the need for a comprehensive model.



"The response to the last locust upsurge was very ad-hoc, and less efficient than it could have been. We've created a comprehensive model that can be used next time to control this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-weather-dramatically-increases-the-threat-of-desert-locusts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devastating</a> pest," said Retkute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-tested-and-reliable-tool">A tested and reliable tool</h2>



The new model has undergone rigorous testing using surveillance and weather data from the 2019-2021 upsurge. It now stands ready to inform surveillance, early warnings, and management strategies. 



The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (<a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FAO</a>) and national agencies will use it to improve preparedness and response.



"Countries that haven’t experienced a locust upsurge in many years are often ill-prepared to respond, lacking the necessary surveillance teams, aircraft, and pesticides," noted the researchers. 



Climate change further complicates the picture, altering the movement and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trillions-of-cicadas-set-to-emerge-in-historic-u-s-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">swarms</a>, making proactive measures like this model essential.



By combining advanced technology and comprehensive data, the predictive model will help mitigate the devastation caused by desert locust swarms. Using this tool, nations can act quickly and decisively, preventing crop loss and protecting food security for millions of people. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1012562" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Computational Biology</a>.



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Locust swarms threaten food security for millions of people

Desert locusts are notorious for their ability to transform from...

A recent study sheds light on Mars's ancient past, revealing how variations in crustal thickness influenced the planet's magmatic evolution and hydrology.



This research challenges long-standing assumptions about Mars, and suggests that the thick crust under its southern highlands supported granitic magmas and underground aquifers billions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-mars-s-dynamic-crust">Evolution of Mars’s dynamic crust</h2>



Led by Cin-Ty Lee of <a href="https://www.rice.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a>, the study uncovers the role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-gravity-pulls-earth-closer-to-the-sun-warming-our-climate-scientists-say/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>’s southern highlands - where crustal thickness reached up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) during the Noachian and early Hesperian periods (3-4 billion years ago).



Advanced thermal modeling revealed that radioactive heating in these thick crustal regions caused partial melting in the lower crust, and produced felsic magmas like granites.



“Our findings indicate that Mars’s crustal processes were far more dynamic than previously thought,” said Lee.



“Not only could thick crust in the southern highlands have generated granitic magmas without plate tectonics, but it also created the thermal conditions for stable groundwater aquifers - reservoirs of liquid water - on a planet we’ve often considered dry and frozen.”



The research team used advanced computer models to simulate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-water-found-on-mars-would-cover-the-planet-over-one-mile-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conditions of the Martian</a> crust during its ancient epochs, focusing on three critical factors: radioactive heat generation, mantle heat flow, and crustal thickness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-granite-formation-on-mars">Granite formation on Mars</h2>



Radioactive elements in the crust naturally decayed, releasing heat over time, while additional warmth from the planet's mantle contributed to heating the crust from below. 



In areas where the crust exceeded 50 kilometers (31 miles) in thickness, this combination of factors led to partial melting of the lower crust. This process generated granitic magmas, which are rich in silica.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stable-underground-water-reservoirs">Stable underground water reservoirs </h2>



The heat flow from the thick crust also supported stable underground water reservoirs, or aquifers, beneath a frozen surface layer. These aquifers extended several kilometers below the surface, retaining liquid due to the sustained warmth in the thick crustal regions.



Occasionally, volcanic eruptions or asteroid impacts may have disrupted these underground reservoirs, causing water to emerge onto the surface in episodic flooding events. 



The interplay between heat, crust dynamics, and water highlights a much more geologically active and hydrologically dynamic Mars than previously believed. The findings have major implications for the planet’s potential habitability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-granite-on-mars">Significance of granite on Mars</h2>



The research debunks the assumption that granites are unique to Earth’s plate tectonics and water recycling processes. 



“Granites aren’t just rocks; they’re geological archives that tell us about a planet’s thermal and chemical evolution,” said Rajdeep Dasgupta. 



“On Earth, granites are tied to tectonics and water recycling. The fact that we see evidence for similar magmas on Mars through deep crustal remelting underscores the planet’s complexity and its potential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mars-became-uninhabitable-after-being-life-supporting-ocean-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hosting life in the past</a>.”



Hidden beneath basaltic flows in the southern highlands, these granites offer crucial insights into Mars’s geological history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-water-and-implications-for-habitability">Ancient water and implications for habitability</h2>



The study suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-makes-surprising-find-under-martian-rock-sulfur-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>’s southern highlands may have been more hospitable to life in the past than scientists once believed.



Granitic magmas formed in these regions of the Martian crust are known to contain elements essential for life, such as potassium and phosphorus.



Additionally, the presence of stable underground water reservoirs beneath the highlands adds another layer when considering potential habitability. These liquid water aquifers, protected beneath a frozen surface layer, could have provided a stable environment for microbial life to exist.



The combination of these factors significantly changes how we view Mars’s potential to support life, offering new insights into the planet’s past environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-roadmap-for-future-exploration">Roadmap for future exploration</h2>



The southern highlands present a promising target for future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marss-space-debris-should-be-regarded-as-historical-artifacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> missions. Large craters and fractures in this region could expose hidden granitic rocks or ancient water reservoirs. 



“Every insight into Mars’s crustal processes brings us closer to answering some of the most profound questions in planetary science, including how Mars evolved and how it may have supported life,” noted study co-author Kirsten Siebach.



”Our research provides a roadmap for where to look and what to look for as we search for these answers.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-more-complex-red-planet">A more complex Red Planet</h2>



This study paints a picture of Mars as a more dynamic and complex planet than previously imagined. 



The interplay of thick crustal regions, granitic magmas, and underground aquifers highlights a planet rich in geological and hydrological processes.



These discoveries could reshape our approach to studying Mars and our assessment of whether it could have hosted life in the distant past.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0012821X24005879?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth and Planetary Science Letters</a>.



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Mars has granite that contains the elements essential for life

A recent study sheds light on Mars's ancient past, revealing...

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Rock arches can be monitored by their vibrations Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a> (NSF) describes a new method that is being used to assess the stability of natural rock arches and bridges.
A team at the University of Utah led by geologist Jeff Moore has been monitoring and modeling structures in the Arches National Park.
Each rock arch has its own distinct resonant frequency that is in constant motion. By studying these natural vibrations, the researchers can measure the condition of the structures, including the potential for collapse. Rock arches can be monitored by their vibrations as shown above in video showingDr. Moore’s research uses resonance readings to record vibrations in the rock, seeing how the rock responds. Certain frequencies can reveal the weakness in an arch’s structure. Using resonance readings, we can learn how fragile each arch is, and what that might mean for the future of the arch.  In addition to seismometers, researchers sometimes use tiltmeters and thermometers to track the arches. 
At high noon, for example, scorching desert heat causes thermal expansion in the rock, imperceptible swelling and tilting; as it cools at night, those joints relax again, sagging in on themselves just like the timbers in an old house.
The research is supported by the National Science Foundation.
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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Video Credit: NSF