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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Pangong Lake on the Tibetan Plateau

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>The image was captured by an astronaut aboard the International Space Station.</p>



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



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Ksudach: A volcano shaped by explosive forces

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the Aladaghlar Mountains in northwestern Iran.</p>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> are known for their strikingly colorful landscapes, which make them stand out among other mountain ranges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscape-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Landscape of the Aladaghlar Mountains</h2>



<p>"Ridges cast shadows in the valleys and other low elevation areas, creating a three-dimensional appearance. Human alterations to the landscape are most evident in riverbeds, where the even topography is easier to build on and navigate," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"Natural processes over millions of years have folded rock layers of various compositions and colors into the curved patterns seen here. These folds are produced by tectonic forces operating along the convergent plate boundary of the Arabia and Eurasia plates." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rainbow-mountains">The Rainbow Mountains</h2>



<p>One of the most remarkable features of the Aladaghlar Mountains is the vivid coloration of their slopes. </p>



<p>The name "Aladaghlar" translates to "colorful mountains," which is a testament to their unique appearance.&nbsp;They are also known as the Rainbow Mountains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains">Wildlife of the Aladaghlar Mountains </h2>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are part of a larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-ecosystems-are-in-urgent-need-of-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> that includes forests, meadows, and rivers, contributing to a rich biodiversity. </p>



<p>The region supports a variety of wildlife, including several species that are unique to the area. The diverse wildlife add to the natural beauty and ecological importance of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a>.</p>



<p>Among the larger mammals, the mountains host species such as brown bears, Persian leopards, and wild goats. The Aladaghlar Mountains also support smaller mammals, including foxes, hares, and various rodent species.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-mountains-influence-bird-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birdlife</a> is abundant, including eagles, falcons, and a variety of songbirds. Reptiles like lizards and snakes are commonly found in the more humid areas, as well as amphibians.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-the-region">Cultural significance of the region</h2>



<p>In addition to their natural appeal, the Aladaghlar Mountains hold cultural significance. The region has a rich history, with evidence of ancient civilizations and historical sites. </p>



<p>Local communities have their unique cultures and traditions, which have been influenced by the natural environment of the mountains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geology-of-the-aladaghlar-mountains-nbsp">Geology of the Aladaghlar Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The geological history of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-both-carbon-sinks-and-carbon-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is a fascinating tale of millions of years of natural processes.</p>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are primarily composed of sedimentary rocks that have accumulated over millions of years. These sediments include sandstones, siltstones, shales, and conglomerates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mineral-deposition-nbsp">Mineral deposition&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The varying colors of the Aladaghlar Mountains are largely due to the presence of different minerals in the sedimentary layers. For example, red and orange hues are typically due to iron oxides, while greens can result from copper compounds.</p>



<p>These minerals were deposited in the sedimentary rocks through processes such as chemical precipitation, biological activity, and the weathering of parent rocks.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tectonic-activity">Tectonic activity</h3>



<p>The region has experienced significant tectonic activity due to its location near the convergent boundary between the Arabian and Eurasian plates. This tectonic activity has caused the uplift and folding of the sedimentary layers, creating the mountain range.</p>



<p>The compression and folding associated with tectonic movements have also contributed to the exposure of the colorful strata that were originally deposited horizontally.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erosion-and-weathering">Erosion and weathering</h3>



<p>Over time, erosion and weathering processes have played a crucial role in shaping the Aladaghlar Mountains. </p>



<p>Wind, water, and temperature variations have eroded the softer rock layers more quickly than the harder ones, creating the distinctive ridges and valleys seen today.</p>



<p>These erosive processes have also helped to expose the underlying layers, revealing the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that attract tourists and geologists alike.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tales and legends</h2>



<p>One of the most famous tales associated with the Aladaghlar Mountains is that of a hidden treasure buried deep within the mountains by an ancient Persian king.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to legend, the treasure is guarded by mystical creatures and can only be found by someone pure of heart and brave enough to face the challenges of the mountain.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The shepherd and the fairy</h3>



<p>Another local legend tells the story of a young shepherd who fell in love with a fairy he encountered in the Aladaghlar Mountains. The fairy granted the shepherd three wishes, but warned him that the wishes would come with consequences.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite the warning, the shepherd made his wishes, which ultimately led to his downfall, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The healing springs</h3>



<p>The Aladaghlar Mountains are also said to be home to a spring with magical healing properties. According to folklore, those who bathe in the spring or drink its water are cured of all ailments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the location of the spring is a closely guarded secret, known only to a few wise elders in the nearby villages.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The spirit of the mountain&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Some locals believe that the Aladaghlar Mountains are inhabited by a protective spirit, who watches over the land and its people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This spirit is said to bring good fortune to those who respect the mountain and its natural beauty, but misfortune to those who exploit or harm it.</p>



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



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The Aladaghlar Mountains of northwestern Iran

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features Klinaklini Glacier, located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada.</p>



<p>Klinaklini Glacier is notable for its size and the role it plays in the regional environment. It is part of a larger system of glaciers and ice fields in the area, which are critical for their contribution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a> resources and their influence on local climate conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-klinaklini-glacier-and-climate-change">Klinaklini Glacier and climate change</h2>



<p>Klinaklini is particularly interesting due to its dynamics and response to climate change. Like many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-pose-great-threat-to-biodiversity-in-mountain-ranges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> around the world, it is being closely monitored for changes in its size, flow, and overall health. </p>



<p>Glaciers in the Coast Mountains, including Klinaklini, have been studied for their response to global warming, with many showing signs of retreat and reduced ice mass.</p>



<p>"Decades of satellite images of western Canada make it clear that the region’s glaciers are shrinking and that the rate of ice loss is accelerating," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"In 1984, there were 14,329 glaciers in British Columbia and Alberta that were large enough to detect with sensors on the Landsat 5 satellite."</p>



<p>"By 2020, nearly 8 percent of them - 1,141 glaciers - had shrunk so much that newer Landsat sensors could no longer distinguish them, according to research conducted by University of Northern British Columbia glaciologists Alexandre Bevington and Brian Menounos."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-the-klinaklini-glacier">Ecological role of the Klinaklini Glacier </h2>



<p>Klinaklini Glacier also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It feeds into the Klinaklini River, which is an important waterway for the region. </p>



<p>The river supports a variety of wildlife, including salmon populations that are vital both ecologically and economically for local communities.</p>



<p>Studies conducted on and around the Klinaklini Glacier contribute to the understanding of glaciology, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-glaciers-will-lose-half-of-their-volume-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and hydrology. </p>



<p>This research is essential for predicting future changes in the glacier and for understanding the broader impacts of climate change on glacial systems globally.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coast-mountains-of-british-columbia">Coast Mountains of British Columbia </h2>



<p>The Coast Mountains of British Columbia are a striking and expansive mountain range forming part of the Pacific Coast Ranges in western North America. </p>



<p>Stretching approximately 1,600 kilometers from the Fraser River near Vancouver in the south to the Yukon Territory in the north, the range is known for its rugged beauty and significant ecological and cultural importance.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-of-the-mountains">Geography of the mountains</h3>



<p>Geographically, the Coast Mountains are positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Interior Plateau to the east.</p>



<p>They are divided into three main sections: the Pacific Ranges in the south, the Kitimat Ranges in the central region, and the Boundary Ranges in the north, which extend into Alaska and Yukon. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-processes">Geological processes</h3>



<p>The range's dramatic landscapes include steep peaks, fjords, and valleys carved by ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-release-vast-quantities-of-unknown-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a>, highlighting the lasting influence of glaciation on the region.</p>



<p>Geologically, the Coast Mountains are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, formed by volcanic and tectonic activity. </p>



<p>Their granitic composition is a result of millions of years of geological processes. Mount Waddington, the highest peak in the range at 4,019 meters, stands as a notable landmark in the Pacific Ranges.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-and-wildlife">Climate and wildlife</h3>



<p>The climate of the Coast Mountains varies significantly depending on location. The western slopes are characterized by a temperate rainforest climate, with high levels of precipitation brought by moist Pacific air. </p>



<p>In contrast, the eastern slopes are drier, with semi-arid conditions in some areas. This climatic diversity supports a wide range of ecosystems, from lush coastal rainforests to alpine tundra. </p>



<p>The region is home to diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/outdoor-recreation-noise-triggers-fear-response-in-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, and numerous bird species.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recreation-and-culture">Recreation and culture</h3>



<p>The Coast Mountains are a popular destination for recreation and tourism. Activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering draw visitors from around the world - particularly to destinations like Whistler, a renowned resort town in the Pacific Ranges. </p>



<p>The fjords and valleys of the range provide opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic exploration.</p>



<p>Indigenous peoples, including the Tlingit, Tsimshian, Haida, and Squamish, have lived in and around the Coast Mountains for millennia. </p>



<p>These groups maintain a deep connection to the land, reflected in their stories, traditions, and art. The mountains are not only a physical presence but also a vital cultural and spiritual landscape.</p>



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



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Klinaklini Glacier in British Columbia

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-webb-nbsp-nbsp">The power of Webb&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>The same cluster was featured as the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. </p>



<p>"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc1333">Webb’s view of NGC1333</h2>



<p>ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC1333 cloud.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."</p>



<p>The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-sun">Formation of the Sun</h2>



<p>“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.</p>



<p>Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.</p>



<p>Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



<p>NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.</p>



<p>Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. </p>



<p>These disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ngc-1333">Significance of NGC 1333</h2>



<p>NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy, still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.</p>



<p>The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>: </strong>ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA</p>



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



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

<p>Researchers at Montana State University (MSU) have unearthed a remarkable ancient forest preserved under ice on the Beartooth Plateau, providing a rare look into how warming climates could reshape alpine ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study, published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2412162121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>, analyzes the remnants of a mature whitebark pine forest that once thrived at an elevation of 10,000 feet during a period of warmer temperatures roughly 6,000 years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-exposed-by-melting-ice">Ancient forest exposed by melting ice</h2>



<p>The forest, which endured for centuries before cooling temperatures forced it to retreat downslope, was sealed under ice approximately 5,500 years ago due to a shift in summer solar radiation and subsequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic cooling</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is pretty dramatic evidence of ecosystem change due to temperature warming. It's an amazing story of how dynamic these systems are,” said David McWethy, one of the study’s authors and an associate professor in <a href="https://www.montana.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MSU</a>’s Department of Earth Sciences.</p>



<p>Unlike glaciers, ice patches do not flow and instead preserve deposited materials such as pollen, charcoal, and macrofossils in their frozen layers. These conditions allowed the forest to remain intact until recent warming caused the ice to melt, exposing the ancient remnants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-effort-to-decode-climate-history">Collaborative effort to decode climate history</h2>



<p>The idea to explore the Beartooth Plateau for ancient climate clues stemmed from earlier discoveries by Craig Lee, now an assistant professor at MSU. In 2007, Lee uncovered a 10,300-year-old atlatl fragment in the region, suggesting that layers of ice held vast records of cultural and environmental history.</p>



<p>“Most of our best long-term climate records come from Greenland and Antarctica. It's not a small thing to find ice patches that persisted for that long a time period at lower latitudes in the interior continent,” McWethy noted.</p>



<p>Building on this discovery, McWethy, Lee, and Greg Pederson, a paleoclimatologist with the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>, began investigating the ice patches in 2016. By 2018, their team expanded the project to study additional alpine ice patches in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This collaborative effort involved tribes, federal agencies, and multiple universities and focused on reconstructing the area’s long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-earths-temperature-has-changed-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate history</a> and its influence on Indigenous peoples.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconstructing-the-ancient-alpine-ecosystem">Reconstructing the ancient alpine ecosystem</h2>



<p>To piece together the story of the forest, the team examined multiple elements of this alpine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-ecosystems-are-thrown-off-balance-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>. Using ice cores, they analyzed water isotopes and organic material, while Pederson harvested cross-sections of ancient wood for radiocarbon dating. </p>



<p>The findings confirmed that during a period of moderate and moist climate, tree lines shifted upward, allowing whitebark pine forests to thrive for 500 years.</p>



<p>“The plateau seems to have been the perfect place to allow for ice patches to establish and persist for thousands of years, recording important information on past climate, human activity and environmental change,” Pederson said.</p>



<p>The study suggests that as today’s climate warms, tree lines could rise again, transforming areas of alpine tundra into forest. However, Pederson cautioned that factors such as precipitation, wind, and snowpack would influence the density, distribution, and composition of these potential new forests.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Growing season temperatures are the primary control on tree line elevation and latitude, but other factors such as moisture, wind, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-driven-climate-change-is-to-blame-for-sharp-snowpack-declines-since-1980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowpack</a> and human disturbance may play an important role in dictating forest structure and elevational limits,” he explained.</p>



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



<p>The researchers warn that these changes could have profound impacts on the region’s ecosystem and resources. Rising tree lines might alter high-altitude snowpack, which serves as a critical water source for irrigation and hydroelectric power.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, if forests encroach on tundra areas, they could increase the risk of wildfires due to changing fuel conditions.</p>



<p>Cathy Whitlock, a climate expert and MSU Regents Professor Emerita, emphasized the broader implications. She noted that reduced snowpack could strain water supplies, while McWethy added that the establishment of forests in tundra areas might fundamentally alter the region’s fire dynamics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-the-past-to-predict-the-future">Learning from the past to predict the future</h2>



<p>The study emphasizes the importance of understanding past ecological changes to prepare for future challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“That’s the reason why studies of past ecological change are more than interesting pieces of science. They have much larger implications for the resources we all depend on,” Pederson said.</p>



<p>As climate change accelerates, the Beartooth Plateau’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient forest</a> serves as both a stark reminder of the Earth’s dynamic ecosystems and a window into the potential future of high-altitude environments.</p>



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Frozen forest reveals climate impacts on alpine ecosystems

Researchers at Montana State University (MSU) have unearthed a remarkable...

<p>A new study has shown that over the last 20 years, large floods in the U.S. have been linked with significantly higher death rates across major causes of mortality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03358-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Medicine</em></a>, this research highlights sweeping and hidden effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">floods</a> - including those not related to hurricanes, such as those resulting from heavy rain, snowmelt, or ice jams - on public health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-a-critical-knowledge-gap">Bridging a critical knowledge gap</h2>



<p>The study was led by scientists at <a href="https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health</a>, in partnership with researchers from <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a>, Harvard University, and the University of Arizona.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts aimed to fill a crucial gap in understanding cause-specific mortality risks related to floods over time and how these risks vary among different groups. The findings are expected to help public health agencies better allocate resources to mitigate these risks.</p>



<p>In the United States, population growth alone is believed to result in an approximately 72 percent increase in the population exposed to floods yearly by 2050. This is before accounting for the impact of climate change, which will likely lead to more frequent river, coastal, and flash floods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flooding-is-an-urgent-public-health-concern-nbsp">Flooding is an urgent public health concern&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Victoria Lynch, a post-doctoral research fellow at Columbia Mailman School and the study’s first author, stressed the severity of the issue.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Flooding is an urgent public health concern as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-levels-linked-to-the-rise-and-fall-of-early-human-societies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise,</a> rapid snowpack melting, and increased storm severity will lead to more destructive and frequent events,” she said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our results show that floods were associated with higher death rates for most major causes of death, even for rain- and snow-related floods that are less likely to generate rapid emergency responses.”</p>



<p>Study senior author Robbie M. Parks, assistant professor in Environmental Health Sciences at Columbia Mailman School, noted that floods have a devastating effect on society in the U.S., yet a comprehensive assessment of their continuing health impacts had been lacking.</p>



<p>“Our study is a first major step in better understanding how floods may affect deaths, which provides an essential foundation for improving resilience to climate-related disasters across the days, weeks, months, and years after they wreak destruction,” said Parks.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deaths-after-large-floods">Deaths after large floods</h2>



<p>The research team examined 35.6 million U.S. death records spanning from 2001 to 2018. Using a statistical model, they compared death rates during three-month periods following large floods to those during normal conditions, assessing variations across 2,711 counties that cover over 75% of the U.S. population.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed significant increases in death rates associated with flooding:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Injury deaths: Tropical storm and hurricane-related floods caused a 24.9% increase in deaths among older adults and a 21.2% rise among women.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-worsens-cardiovascular-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiovascular diseases</a>: Death rates rose by 2.1% during heavy rain floods and 8.9% during snowmelt-related floods.</li>



<li>Respiratory diseases: Snowmelt-related flooding was linked to a 22.3% increase in mortality.</li>



<li>Neuropsychiatric conditions: Death rates rose by 15.9% during snowmelt-related floods.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-infectious-disease-landscape-is-changing-and-we-must-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Infectious diseases</a>: Heavy rain floods caused a 3.2% increase in deaths, likely due to disruptions to water and sewage systems.</li>
</ul>



<p>The study noted an alarming increase in the frequency of record-breaking rainfall. For instance, record-high monthly rainfall totals were achieved 27 percent more frequently in 2024 than at the century’s start, while daily records rose by 52 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-health-impacts-of-floods">Lingering health impacts of floods</h2>



<p>The experts emphasize that floods cause long-lasting health impacts beyond the immediate disaster. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forecasting-the-floods-new-clues-about-extreme-rainfall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Extreme rainfall</a> events led to widespread flash floods in regions such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Spain, and Bangladesh, causing thousands of deaths and widespread displacement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conversely, severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-extreme-weather-events-are-escalating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> conditions in places like the Amazon and southern Africa disrupted ecosystems, reduced crop yields, and heightened wildfire risks.</p>



<p>“Our study shows that even floods caused by snowmelt or heavy rain, each uniquely driven by changes to climate and development, elevate mortality months after the fact, providing critical knowledge of how to manage and adapt to floods,” said study co-author Jonathan Sullivan, an assistant professor at the University of Arizona.</p>



<p>These findings call for urgent action, including stronger flood defences, drought-resilient agriculture and water supplies, and better early warning systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding the broad and lasting health impacts of floods will be critical for building resilient communities in the face of climate change.</p>



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Flood fatalities: Experts reveal the hidden health impacts

A new study has shown that over the last 20...

<p>Antarctica, a land of extremes, hides a fascinating and potentially impactful geological secret beneath its ice. Known for its towering Mount Erebus and iconic lava lake, the continent also harbors over 100 lesser-known volcanoes. </p>



<p>Many of these lie buried beneath kilometers of ice, especially along Antarctica’s western coast.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-hidden-volcanoes">Antarctica's hidden volcanoes</h2>



<p>Climate change is causing Antarctica's ice sheet to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-patterns-point-to-rapid-melting-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melt faster than before</a>, which is raising global sea levels. But the impact doesn’t stop with the oceans. </p>



<p>The ice sheet is incredibly heavy and presses down on the land beneath it. When the ice melts, the weight on the rocks below is reduced, a process scientists call&nbsp;"unloading."</p>



<p>This unloading has significant geological effects. The reduced pressure can increase the chances of volcanic eruptions.</p>



<p>Similar effects have been seen in other parts of the world, where melting glaciers and ice sheets have triggered increased volcanic activity.</p>



<p>In Antarctica, where many volcanoes lie buried under kilometers of ice, this unloading process could "awaken" these hidden volcanoes. Their eruptions could melt even more ice from beneath, amplifying the melting process in what scientists call a "feedback loop." </p>



<p>This means that as the ice melts, it could trigger volcanic eruptions that further accelerate the melting.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melting-ice-and-subglacial-volcanoes">Melting ice and subglacial volcanoes</h2>



<p>A research team led by A. N. Coonin from <a href="https://www.brown.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brown University</a> used 4,000 computer simulations to study how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melting Antarctic ice</a> affects hidden volcanoes.</p>



<p>The results show that as the ice gradually melts, it can increase both how frequent and how powerful subglacial volcanic eruptions become.</p>



<p>This means that ice loss doesn’t just impact the surface - it also significantly affects Antarctica’s volcanoes deep below the Earth’s crust.</p>



<p>The phenomenon is linked to how magma chambers respond to changes in pressure. Magma chambers, located beneath the Earth's surface, hold molten rock under high pressure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressure-inside-of-magma-chambers">Pressure inside of magma chambers</h2>



<p>The massive weight of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turquets-octopus-dna-tells-scientists-that-west-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse-is-close/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a> above a magma chamber keeps the pressure stable. When the ice melts, the weight is reduced, and the pressure on the magma decreases.</p>



<p>As the pressure lifts, the magma can expand. This expansion puts stress on the walls of the magma chamber, making eruptions more likely. </p>



<p>To make matters more complex, many magma chambers contain gases, such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, dissolved in the magma under high pressure. When the pressure reduces - similar to opening a soda bottle - these gases escape in bubbles, rapidly increasing the pressure inside the chamber.</p>



<p>This added pressure from escaping gases and expanding magma increases the chances of an eruption. The process is further intensified in regions like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica</a>, where ice loss directly impacts the stability of these underground systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-subglacial-eruptions">Impact of subglacial eruptions</h2>



<p>Subglacial volcanic eruptions rarely breach the surface, but their heat has significant consequences. They can intensify melting deep below the ice, weakening the ice sheet from within. </p>



<p>As discussed above, this weakening creates a feedback loop: as ice melts and pressure lessens, volcanic activity increases, which in turn accelerates ice melting.</p>



<p>The researchers emphasize that this is a slow process, unfolding over centuries. However, this slow feedback loop could persist even if humanity succeeds in curbing greenhouse gas emissions. </p>



<p>The process might have played a role in past volcano eruptions when Antarctica’s ice sheet was much thicker during the last ice age.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnectedness-of-antarctica-s-volcanoes">Interconnectedness of Antarctica's volcanoes</h2>



<p>Antarctica’s hidden volcanoes highlight that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impacts of climate change</a> extend far beyond the atmosphere and oceans. They reveal how warming temperatures can initiate complex chain reactions deep within the Earth. </p>



<p>As the ice melts, it reduces pressure on underground magma systems, potentially triggering volcanic eruptions. These eruptions, in turn, can intensify ice melting, creating a self-reinforcing cycle.</p>



<p>Although this process unfolds over centuries, it serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of Earth's systems. Geology and climate are not isolated - they influence each other in ways that can reshape the planet.</p>



<p>Understanding these hidden dynamics is essential as we address the long-term consequences of climate change. By studying these processes, we can better prepare for the challenges they may bring, even if their full effects seem distant today.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GC011743" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit:&nbsp;Josh Landis, U.S. Antarctic Program</p>



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Melting ice in Antarctica could wake sleeping volcanoes

Antarctica, a land of extremes, hides a fascinating and potentially...


<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592d9c573b94c704af350c95/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>In this episode, find out how scientists are developing more environmentally friendly plastics using plant materials. By 2020, these bioplastics could provide an alternative for about a fifth of the estimated 200 billion pounds of plastics manufactures produce each year worldwide.</p>
<p>&#8212;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.acs.org" target="_blank">American Chemical Society</a></p>


Scientists Develop Environmentally Friendly Bioplastics