Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a Copernicus Sentinel-2 photograph of Lake Maracaibo, located in the northwestern part of Venezuela. The lake is a significant geographical and ecological feature of South America. 



Lake Maracaibo is often considered more of a tidal bay due to its direct connection to the Caribbean Sea through the Tablazo Strait. It is one of the oldest lakes on Earth, formed approximately 36 million years ago.



"With an area of over 13,000 sq km, Lake Maracaibo is generally considered the largest lake in South America, although by some estimates it should be considered an inlet of the Caribbean Sea since much of its water is brought in by its direct connection to the ocean," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"As a result, the water in the northern part of the lake is rather brackish, while the southern waters are fresh, owing to the many rivers that flow into the lake. The biggest, the Catatumbo River, can be seen entering the lake from southwest, where a large amount of sediment carried by the river appears as a yellowish plume."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-catatumbo-lightning">The Catatumbo lightning</h2>



The lake is renowned for a unique weather phenomenon - the Catatumbo lightning. This natural spectacle occurs primarily where the Catatumbo River meets the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-has-affected-almost-every-lake-in-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a>.



Known as the most persistent lightning storm in the world, it produces frequent and dramatic flashes of lightning, illuminating the night sky for an average of 260 nights per year.



These storms generate thousands of lightning strikes in a single night, making the region one of the most electrified places on the planet. 



The phenomenon is so intense that it has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the place with the highest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lightning-on-earth-can-influence-the-weather-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lightning</a> activity.



Scientists believe the lightning is influenced by the area's geography and climate, including the warm air rising from the lake and its surrounding mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economical-significance-of-lake-maracaibo">Economical significance of Lake Maracaibo </h2>



Lake Maracaibo plays an important role in Venezuela’s economy, as it lies atop vast reserves of crude oil.



The discovery of petroleum in the early 20th century transformed the region into a major oil-producing area, leading to the establishment of numerous oil rigs and platforms. 



However, this economic activity has come at a cost. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-losing-their-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pollution</a> from oil spills, industrial waste, and agricultural runoff has significantly degraded the lake's ecosystem.



The appearance of a green, slimy algae known as Lemna has further exacerbated environmental concerns, threatening marine life and the livelihoods of local communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-ties-to-lake-maracaibo">Cultural ties to Lake Maracaibo </h2>



The cultural significance of Lake Maracaibo is deeply rooted in the traditions and lifestyle of the Indigenous Añu people, who have inhabited its shores for centuries. The Añu, also known as Paraujano, are known for their distinctive stilt houses, called palafitos.



These wooden structures are built directly over the water, connected by walkways or small boats, allowing the Añu to live harmoniously with their aquatic environment. The architectural style of these stilt houses inspired the early Spanish explorers to nickname the region "The Venice of the Americas."



The Añu's way of life is closely tied to the lake. They rely on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-fishing-must-be-redefined-to-halt-ocean-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> as a primary source of food and income, using traditional methods passed down through generations.



For the Añu, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-significantly-impacts-lake-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> is more than a resource; it is a spiritual and cultural cornerstone, shaping their identity and daily practices.



However, modernization and environmental challenges have disrupted their traditional lifestyle. The oil industry’s expansion around Lake Maracaibo has led to significant environmental degradation, which threaten the lake's biodiversity and the Añu’s primary sources of sustenance. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lake-maracaibo-and-venezuelan-history">Lake Maracaibo and Venezuelan history</h2>



Lake Maracaibo also played a pivotal role in Venezuelan history, particularly during the Battle of Lake Maracaibo in 1823. 



This naval battle was a decisive conflict in Venezuela’s war for independence from Spain and marked one of the final military engagements of the South American liberation movements led by figures like Simón Bolívar.



Today, the lake represents a remarkable blend of natural beauty, industrial significance, and cultural heritage. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-conservation-efforts">Ongoing conservation efforts </h2>



Ongoing efforts aim to harmonize ecological conservation with economic development, as both local and global stakeholders acknowledge the need to protect this extraordinary environment for generations to come.



Efforts to preserve the Añu culture and the lake's ecosystem have been initiated by local and international organizations. These initiatives focus on promoting sustainable development, preserving Indigenous languages and traditions, and mitigating the environmental damage caused by industrial activities. 



Despite these challenges, the Añu have shown remarkable resilience, maintaining their cultural identity and advocating for their rights and the health of their ancestral lands.



Image Credit: ESA



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Lake Maracaibo: One of the most electrified places on the planet

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

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 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

A recent study from Colorado State University (CSU) provides compelling evidence that climate change can influence the frequency of earthquakes. The research adds to a growing body of work suggesting that shifts in climate can directly impact the seismic cycle.



The study focused on the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, where an active fault runs along the western edge of the range. Researchers discovered that during the last ice age, the weight of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-glaciers-could-disappear-by-2100/">glaciers</a> suppressed fault activity.&nbsp;



However, as the ice melted, the fault experienced increased slip, indicating that earthquake activity along such faults could rise in response to glacial retreat.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is happening at a rate that is orders of magnitude faster than we see in the geologic record,” said first author Cece Hurtado, who conducted the study as part of her master’s thesis at <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a>.&nbsp;



“We see this in the rapid mountain glacial retreats in Alaska, the Himalayas and the Alps. In many of these regions, there are also active tectonics, and this work demonstrates that as climate change alters ice and water loads, tectonically active areas might see more frequent fault movements and earthquakes due to rapidly changing stress conditions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-climate-and-earthquake-activity">Linking climate and earthquake activity</h2>



While it’s well established that tectonic changes influence climate - for example, through mountain uplift altering atmospheric circulation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a> - research linking climate shifts to tectonic activity is still rare.&nbsp;



The CSU study is among the few that show how climate change can directly impact seismic processes.



“We’ve been able to model these processes for a while, but it’s hard to find examples in nature,” said Sean Gallen, an associate professor of geosciences at CSU and the senior author of the study. “This is compelling evidence. It suggests that the atmosphere and the solid Earth have tight connections that we can measure in the field.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-the-sangre-de-cristo-fault">A closer look at the Sangre de Cristo fault</h2>



The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, once blanketed by glaciers during the last ice age, provided an ideal setting for studying the relationship between glacial retreat and fault activity.&nbsp;



Using remote sensing and field data, researchers reconstructed the extent of ancient glaciers and calculated the weight these ice masses exerted on the fault. They then measured how much the fault had displaced over time.



The analysis revealed that fault slip rates have been five times faster since the glaciers melted compared to the period when the region was glaciated. This acceleration suggests that as the glaciers melted, the fault experienced a “rebound,” catching up to the background tectonic rate of movement.



“It’s basically like a small lever that’s tweaking the rate at which the fault moves, but that long-term rate is set by the background rate of the tectonic processes,” Gallen explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-seismic-hazard-assessment">Implications for seismic hazard assessment</h2>



The findings have significant implications for understanding what drives earthquake activity and for assessing seismic risks in areas experiencing rapid glacial retreat or significant water loss.



“This work implies that the repeat time isn’t necessarily going to be periodic,” Gallen said. “You can have periods of time where you have a bunch of earthquakes in quick succession and a lot of time where you don’t have any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquakes-have-long-lasting-impacts-on-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a>.”



The study’s results may help refine models used to reconstruct prehistoric seismic records and estimate the recurrence intervals of active faults. By factoring in hydrologic processes, such as glacial retreat, over geologic time, seismologists can improve hazard assessments for tectonically active regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-retreat-and-earthquake-activity">Glacial retreat and earthquake activity </h2>



The research was grounded in a public database of high-resolution elevation data, which served as the foundation for understanding the fault’s displacement.&nbsp;



Hurtado and Gallen also conducted field surveys using high-precision GPS instruments to supplement the elevation data and measure fault displacement. The timing of fault movement was determined based on the age of sediment deposits near the fault.



The researchers noted that the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offered a unique opportunity to study the interplay between glacial retreat and tectonics. The range is part of the Rio Grande rift, which has a known background slip rate, providing a baseline for comparison.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-climate-and-tectonic-systems">Earth’s climate and tectonic systems</h2>



As glaciers continue to retreat rapidly in regions such as Alaska, the Himalayas, and the Alps, the CSU team’s findings serve as a preview of how other glacier-adjacent faults might respond to a warming climate.&nbsp;



The study highlights the interconnectedness of the Earth’s climate and tectonic systems, highlighting the potential for climate-driven changes to increase seismic activity in tectonically active areas.



By shedding light on this relationship, the researchers hope to deepen understanding of seismic hazards and encourage further study of how climate change shapes the Earth’s dynamic systems. “This is a crucial step in understanding how climate and tectonics interact,” Hurtado concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1130/G52661.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>.



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Earthquake activity will increase due to glacial retreat

A recent study from Colorado State University (CSU) provides compelling...

NASA has released its final goals and objectives for low Earth orbit, laying out a long-term plan to expand microgravity science, technology, and exploration in a way that benefits everyone. 



This new framework, called NASA’s Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, was developed following extensive input from a broad range of industry, academic, international, and governmental stakeholders.



“As we near the retirement of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-international-space-station-celebrates-its-25th-anniversary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a> in 2030, these objectives are a pivotal next step in solidifying U.S. leadership in space,” said <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. 



“Our consultation with industry, academia, and international partners has helped refine a visionary roadmap for our future in low Earth orbit, which will be enabled by a continuous human presence.”



“Together, we are ensuring that the benefits of exploring space continue to grow - advancing science, innovation, and opportunities for all, while preparing for humanity’s next giant leap of exploring the moon, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mars-became-uninhabitable-after-being-life-supporting-ocean-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> and beyond.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-generation-of-nasa-space-infrastructure">The next generation of NASA space infrastructure</h2>



Early in 2024, NASA began formulating an initial set of goals and objectives specific to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microgravity-causes-big-problems-with-human-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a> environment in low Earth orbit (LEO). The agency engaged its workforce, government partners, private industry, universities, global space agencies, and the public to gather feedback. 



After receiving and reviewing more than 1,800 comments - plus hosting two workshops - NASA made key adjustments to align its goals more closely with the needs of its collaborators.



The final plan, known as the Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, consists of 13 goals and 44 objectives spanning seven core areas.



These areas include commercial low Earth orbit infrastructure; operations; science; research and technology development for exploration; international cooperation; workforce development and STEM engagement; and public engagement.



These focal points highlight the aim of fostering broader economic opportunities, sustaining valuable partnerships, and guiding NASA toward a sustainable, next-generation presence in low Earth orbit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-human-presence-in-low-earth-orbit">Maintaining human presence in low Earth orbit</h2>



NASA’s initiatives in low Earth orbit directly support its broader ambitions for exploration beyond Earth. 



The unique microgravity conditions of LEO provide a cost-effective environment for testing new technologies and conducting research essential to future human missions deeper into the solar system.



Because so much of the journey to the moon and Mars will take place under microgravity, maintaining human presence in LEO allows for critical human research, essential system tests, and the retention of operational skills vital for exploration.



“These finalized objectives represent a clear path forward as NASA transitions from the International Space Station to a new era of commercial space stations,” said Robyn Gatens, director of the International Space Station and acting director of commercial spaceflight. 



“Low Earth orbit will remain a hub for scientific discovery, technological advancement, and international cooperation, while making strategic investments in a commercial space ecosystem that benefits not just NASA, but the entire space community.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustaining-a-workforce-proficient-in-microgravity">Sustaining a workforce proficient in microgravity</h2>



One key part of NASA’s strategy is to ensure an unbroken cadence of human spaceflight in low Earth orbit. 



The transition from the International Space Station to multiple commercial space stations will require uninterrupted crewed missions, enabling NASA to continue mitigating risks for planned human voyages to Mars.



Sustaining a skilled workforce proficient in microgravity operations is also a top priority, as is the ongoing collection of vital data on human health under extended microgravity conditions.



The final set of goals and objectives stresses the necessity of diverse service providers and regular flight opportunities, promoting a dynamic marketplace in LEO. 



This means NASA can rely on different commercial partners to deliver cost-effective solutions and robust competition, supporting both agency missions and the needs of a growing space economy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-successful-model-of-the-iss">The successful model of the ISS </h2>



The released plan emphasizes the continuing importance of working with international partners and consulting with private industry. This spirit of cooperation mirrors the successful model of the International Space Station, which has proven that robust partnerships drive innovation and lower costs. 



NASA’s new LEO strategy, therefore, aims to build on these cooperative foundations, expanding scientific and economic returns for a global audience of researchers and entrepreneurs.



“Collaboration and consultation remain a cornerstone of our low Earth orbit strategy,” said John Keefe, director of cross-agency strategy integration at NASA. 



“The objectives we’ve established will help NASA craft a work plan that ensures NASA is positioned to meet current and future needs and prioritizes the development of critical capabilities for low Earth orbit.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-giant-leaps-for-humanity">The next giant leaps for humanity</h2>



As NASA sets its sights on the moon, Mars, and beyond, the final goals and objectives for low Earth orbit promise to strengthen the agency’s role in an expanding and vibrant orbital ecosystem. 



By defining a comprehensive framework and partnering with industry, academia, and global space agencies, NASA aims to maintain continuous human presence in LEO, advance cutting-edge research in microgravity, and nurture the commercial opportunities that arise from new space station platforms.



By leveraging these partnerships and sustaining a well-coordinated approach to low Earth orbit microgravity research, NASA will move closer to achieving the breakthroughs required for humanity’s next giant leaps - both in Earth’s orbit and throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interstellar-tunnel-found-that-connects-our-solar-system-to-other-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a>.



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How NASA plans to keep people in space after the ISS is gone

NASA has released its final goals and objectives for low...

Tiny plastic fragments have turned up inside human beings, and it has rattled more than a few nerves. Nobody expects to find plastic in their blood or buried in important tissues, but recent <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624005971?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> has done exactly that.



These miniscule particles, often smaller than a grain of sand, have appeared in places once thought safe from contamination.



This poses some uncomfortable questions about the implications for long-term health and whether anyone has been paying attention to this hidden hazard that has been present in the environment for decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-infiltration-of-plastic-into-human-tissues">The infiltration of plastic into human tissues</h2>



Scientists have identified <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022001258" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micro- and nanoplastics</a> (MNPs) in human lungs, gut, reproductive organs, and skin, where they can stick around for far longer than most people would imagine.



Their presence has now been detected in blood, too, making it clear that these tiny, synthetic particles move through our bodies in surprising ways. They do not simply pass through and exit without causing harm, as was once thought. 



Instead, they take up residence. They linger, and they may be associated with some serious health issues.



This <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624005971?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a>, led by <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bVDTB_gAAAAJ&amp;hl=zh-CN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Yating Luo</a> at the School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, and a team of specialists, has revealed an unsettling new source of environmental exposure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-links-to-diseases">Potential links to diseases</h2>



Other researchers have begun piecing together how MNPs might be <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624003182" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">involved in a range of health problems</a>.



Studies have linked them to heart and blood vessel conditions, like atherosclerosis and thrombosis, as well as to intestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease.



Some work even connects them to changes in reproductive systems and the risk of conditions like cervical cancer. Nobody wants to consider <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-carry-toxic-chemicals-that-are-easily-absorbed-by-skin/">plastic dust</a> as a potential player in such serious illnesses, but the evidence is mounting.



Dr. Luo, lead author of the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993624005971?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, which was published in Environment International, highlighted that the research strongly indicates MNPs are more than environmental contaminants - they are entering human tissues and may pose significant health risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-these-particles-break-through-barriers">How these particles break through barriers</h2>



Laboratory tests have <a href="https://particleandfibretoxicology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12989-020-00358-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> that these particles can cross protective hurdles, including the body’s natural filters. For example, the blood-brain barrier has long been thought of as a sturdy shield, but these tiny plastic pieces may pass through it.



This could set the stage for neurological issues. Researchers suspect that if these minute fragments of plastic move along the gut-brain axis, they may influence how nerve cells work. Early evidence suggests they might play a role in some degenerative conditions that affect the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wider-implications-for-public-health">Wider implications for public health</h2>



Plastic pollution is not something that stays outside in the ocean or piled up at landfills. Studies show that even remote corners of the planet have tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surging-plastic-levels-found-in-the-north-pacific-garbage-patch/">plastic fragments</a> floating in the air. People breathe them in, ingest them through food and water, and may even absorb them through the skin.



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28812686/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Tamara Galloway</a>, a leading expert on microplastics from the University of Exeter, emphasized that this study further supports the increasing evidence of microplastics being widespread in human tissues.



It is not just a problem for one region or for certain groups. It is a global phenomenon that affects everyone, everywhere. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-people-should-pay-attention">Why people should pay attention</h2>



Plastics have found their way into everyday life in a multitude of forms - containers, packaging, clothing, personal care products. As these items break down, tiny plastic fibers and fragments spread through land, water, and air. They turn up in fish and shellfish, which then end up <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.9b01517" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on dinner plates</a>.



Waste management <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34492918/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">practices</a> in some places, such as open burning, add more plastic particles to the environment and harm people who live nearby.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-plastic-use-and-environmental-regulations">Rethinking plastic use and environmental regulations</h2>



There is growing pressure on governments to enforce stricter rules around plastic manufacturing, recycling, and disposal. A shift to responsible materials and less reliance on single-use plastics could help slow the spread of these particles in future.



Public health agencies may need to update guidelines to consider tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/">plastic fragments as contaminants</a>. If MNPs are linked to certain diseases, official policies may need to reflect that. Health professionals might soon discuss plastic exposure as they do other known factors like poor air quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-comes-next-in-the-search-for-answers">What comes next in the search for answers</h2>



Scientists need to measure the full extent of the problem. More long-term <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34492918/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> could show exactly how much plastic accumulates in human tissues and pinpoint how these particles alter cells and organs at a microscopic level.



Researchers are developing new technology to track these fragments and understand how they behave inside the body. Improved tools might help uncover the chemical reactions triggered by plastic fragments. With that information, they could figure out why certain tissues are more at risk than others.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-ways-to-reduce-the-danger">Finding ways to reduce the danger</h2>



None of this is a reason to give up the fight against plastic pollution. People can reduce their own exposure by avoiding products that shed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-able-to-travel-thousands-of-miles-because-of-their-shape/">plastic fibers</a>, pushing for cleaner water sources, and supporting brands that move away from plastic use.



Communities that suffer from poor waste management can advocate for better facilities, cleaner streets, and safer disposal methods.



Officials can encourage companies to design products with health and the environment in mind. Better filters and barriers could help keep these particles out of water supplies and the foods people rely on every day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-reason-to-stay-informed">A reason to stay informed</h2>



Nobody likes to think about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-migrate-from-the-gut-to-other-organs/">foreign particles</a> building up in their body. For many, this may spark frustration or fear. The good news is that awareness can help drive action. If people know that these small bits of plastic may affect their health, they might push for meaningful changes.



More funding, better research, and stricter oversight may keep these hidden threats in check. As scientists learn more, the public can stay informed and join conversations that shape future policies.



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Tiny plastic bits are now found hiding deep inside the human body

Tiny plastic fragments have turned up inside human beings, and...

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<script src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
 
Saturn is losing its rings Today&#8217;s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how Saturn&#8217;s iconic rings are gradually disappearing. 
Scientists have discovered that the rings are actually much younger than previously realized. They estimate that even though Saturn is more than four billion years old, the rings are only about 100 million years old.
The rings are mostly made up of ice that ranges in size from tiny microscopic grains to chunks that are several meters across. 
According to a new study, gravity is steadily pulling these ice particles into the planet in the form of dust after they are charged by ultraviolet radiation and bound to the Earth&#8217;s magnetic field. 
The study also revealed that the rings will not last more than another 300 million years.
&#8212;
By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton,</a> <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 
Video Credit: NASA Goddard