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



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.



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



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. 



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.



"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>.



"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."



"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."



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



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. 



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



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. 



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



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



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



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.



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



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



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. 



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



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.



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



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.



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



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. 



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. 



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.



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



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. 



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



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



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.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Klinaklini Glacier in British Columbia

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

Today's Image of the Day 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.



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



“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>.



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



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



"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."



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



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



“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."



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;



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



“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.



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.



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.



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



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.



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



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;



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



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



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;



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;



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



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;



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;



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.



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;



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Messier 78 (M78), a reflection nebula located in the constellation Orion about 1,350 light-years away from Earth. 



This image was released as part of the initial series of observations from ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a>.&nbsp;



All data collected during these early observations, including a series of incredible <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid/Euclid_s_first_images_the_dazzling_edge_of_darkness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new views</a> of the nearby universe, is available to the public. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-messier-78">Image of Messier 78</h2>



Featured here is a high-resolution, detailed segment of a larger image showcasing Messier 78, a dynamic region of star formation obscured by cosmic dust.&nbsp;



This specific view highlights how young stars generate winds of charged particles, carving out “cavities” in the molecular clouds around them.&nbsp;



The blue hues in the image represent ionized atomic hydrogen, which is a primary component of the cloud, while the red indicates the absorption and scattering of light by dust particles.



The image captures hundreds of stars varying in brightness, illuminating their nebulous, purple surroundings. A dark, arch-like structure stretches from the upper left to the bottom right of the frame, merging into the densest, darkest clouds at the image’s base.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-active-site-of-star-formation-nbsp">Active site of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is not just a single nebula but part of a larger complex of stars and nebulous regions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a>, which includes various other objects like dark nebulae that are visible as patches blocking light from behind.



This region is an active site of star formation, featuring many young stars and protostars, which are stars in the early stages of formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-messier-78">Viewing Messier 78</h2>



M78 is easily observable with small telescopes, and it appears as a hazy patch of light with two prominent stars near its center, which illuminate the surrounding dust.&nbsp;



The nebula is also a favorite among amateur astronomers for its beauty and relatively bright appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subject-of-scientific-interest-nbsp">Subject of scientific interest&nbsp;</h2>



Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <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> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;



The nebula consists of dense, cold gas and dust, which are essential ingredients for the birth of new stars.&nbsp;



The intense blue light that characterizes M78 is due to the reflection of starlight off these dust particles, a process known as scattering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-region-surrounding-messier-78-nbsp">Region surrounding Messier 78&nbsp;</h2>



The region surrounding M78 includes several other interesting features. For instance, there are Herbig-Haro objects within it, which are small patches of nebulosity associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">newly born stars</a>.&nbsp;



These objects are formed when gas ejected by young stars collides with clouds of gas and dust at high speeds, creating shock waves that glow brightly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earliest-stages-of-star-development-nbsp">Earliest stages of star development&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, infrared observations of M78 have revealed much about the dust and colder objects in the area, which are not visible in optical light.&nbsp;



The observations have helped astronomers identify numerous young stars and brown dwarfs (objects that are too large to be planets and too small to be stars) within the nebula. 



This makes M78 a critical area for studying the earliest stages of star development and the properties of the interstellar medium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp-0">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-batch-of-brilliant-images-from-the-euclid-mission-live-up-to-the-hype/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid space mission</a> is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission designed to study the dark universe, particularly focusing on dark energy and dark matter, which are fundamental components that are believed to drive the accelerating expansion of the universe and shape its large-scale structure.&nbsp;



The mission aims to map the geometry of the dark universe and better understand the physics of the cosmos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-billions-of-galaxies-nbsp">Observing billions of galaxies&nbsp;</h3>



Euclid uses two primary scientific instruments: a visible light camera (VIS) and a near-infrared spectrometer and photometer (NISP).&nbsp;



These instruments will allow Euclid to measure the shapes and redshifts of galaxies at distances of up to 10 billion light-years. By surveying more than a third of the sky, the mission is expected to observe several billion galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-dark-universe-nbsp">Studying the dark universe&nbsp;</h3>



The data collected will help astronomers in studying the effects of dark matter and dark energy in depth, testing cosmological models, and exploring new theories about the nature of the universe.&nbsp;



The mission, named after the ancient Greek mathematician Euclid, seeks to address key questions related to the structure of the universe and the fundamental laws of physics governing its evolution and expansion.



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Little Dumbbell Nebula, also known as Messier 76, located in the constellation Perseus 3,400 light-years away from Earth.



Astronomers captured this image of the Little Dumbbell Nebula to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope, a joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).



The snapshot provides not only a breathtaking view, but also deep insights into the life cycle of <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> and the dynamic processes within nebulae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-messier-76">Understanding Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 is categorized as a planetary nebula - a term which refers to its round, planet-like appearance when viewed through early, low-power telescopes. 



However, the term is somewhat misleading as planetary nebulae have no connection to actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a>.&nbsp;



Instead, they represent an expansive shell of luminous gases expelled by a dying red giant star, which subsequently collapses into a dense, hot white dwarf. 



This transformation marks the late stages of stellar evolution for medium to low-mass stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure-of-messier-76">Structure of Messier 76</h2>



The structure of Messier 76 is particularly notable. It includes a central ring, giving the appearance of a bar-like feature, with two distinct lobes emanating from either side. 



This formation is believed to be the result of materials ejected by the star during its red giant phase, possibly sculpted by interactions with a companion star.&nbsp;



Although this binary companion is not visible in current Hubble images, its presence is inferred from the thick disk of dust and gas aligned with its orbital plane. 



The phenomenon of the companion star potentially being absorbed by the primary star, a process akin to stellar cannibalism, is a captivating aspect of the nebula's history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dynamic-environment-of-the-nebula">The dynamic environment of the nebula</h2>



At the core of the nebula, the primary star, now collapsing into a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a>, reaches extreme temperatures. This heat is estimated to be 120,000 degrees Celsius - about 24 times hotter than the surface of our Sun.&nbsp;



This intensely hot remnant is visible as a small, bright point at the center of the nebula. Directly below this, another star can be seen; however, it is merely aligned with the nebula by chance and is not a part of it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-glow-of-messier-76">Powerful glow of Messier 76</h2>



The dynamics within Messier 76 are driven by powerful forces. The central disk seems to constrict the material, creating two lobes of gas escaping along the rotational axis of the star, perpendicular to the disk.&nbsp;



The lobes are propelled outward by a potent stellar wind, moving at a staggering two million miles per hour. This rapid movement is sufficient to travel the distance from Earth to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeless-mystery-solved-scientists-uncover-what-is-inside-the-moons-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> in just over seven minutes.&nbsp;



The collision of the fast-moving gas with older, slower-moving material ejected during the star’s red giant phase results in the stunning glowing effect seen in the nebula. 



The glow, ignited by the ultraviolet radiation from the white dwarf, is a spectacle of colors with red emanating from nitrogen and blue from oxygen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cosmic-moment-in-time">A cosmic moment in time</h2>



Despite its current brilliance, the existence of the Little Dumbbell Nebula is fleeting on a cosmological scale. It is expected to last only about 15,000 years - a mere moment in the lifespan of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-energy-is-ripping-the-universe-apart-but-we-arent-sure-how/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.&nbsp;



This brief period highlights the transient nature of such cosmic phenomena, which, while short-lived, provide crucial insights into the mechanics of stellar evolution and the complex interactions within these celestial sculptures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-messier-76">More about Messier 76</h2>



Messier 76 was discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1780. It was later cataloged by Charles Messier, who included it in his famous list of nebulous objects.



The nebula's faintness and small size require a good telescope to be observed effectively, with larger telescopes able to reveal more of its fine details and structure.



Studying Messier 76 helps astronomers understand the life cycle of stars and the processes that occur during the late stages of stellar evolution. 



The materials expelled by planetary nebulae like Messier 76 eventually contribute to the interstellar medium, from which new stars and planetary systems may form.



Image Credit: ESA Space Agency&nbsp;



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Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the remnants of Lake Razzaza, an artificial lake situated a few miles west of Karbala, Iraq.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> was created in the late 1970s as a flood control measure to regulate the floodwaters of the Euphrates River. 



Razzaza covers an area of approximately 1,562 square kilometers and is located in a depression where excess water from Lake Habbaniyah is diverted through a controlled escape channel or canal.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colors-of-lake-razzaza">The colors of Lake Razzaza</h2>



“The lake, also known as Baḩr al-Milḩ (‘Sea of Salt’ in Arabic), is fed by overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, which lies just outside the top left corner of the image,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153756/iraqs-sea-of-salt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The difference in water color results from the various communities of algae that thrive in the lake depending on the water temperature and salinity.”



“Green areas contain lower salt concentrations than red areas. At times when the lake receives no overflow from Habbaniyah Lake, as shown in this image, most of the lakebed is exposed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salinity-of-lake-razzaza">Salinity of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Over the years, the salinity of Lake Razzaza has been increasing due to inadequate water supply from the linked canal and high evaporation rates during Iraq's hot summers.&nbsp;



This rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/salt-pollution-threatens-freshwater-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salinity</a> has led to a decline in fish populations, adversely affecting local fishermen who once relied on the lake for their livelihoods. 



By 2008, only the fish species locally known as "al-Shanik" (Acanthopagrus arabicus), of marine origin and stocked by the government, was reported to survive in the lake.&nbsp;



The lake's fluctuating water levels and increasing salinity have also impacted its recreational appeal, with few recreational areas existing around the lake.&nbsp;



Additionally, the surrounding desert landscape and low cliff shores contribute to its limited accessibility for leisure activities.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-lake-razzaza">Wildlife of Lake Razzaza</h2>



Despite these challenges, Lake Razzaza remains an important habitat for various bird species. It has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, supporting significant numbers of wintering waterfowl and serving as a breeding ground for species such as the marbled duck.&nbsp;



The lake's mudflats attract large numbers of waders and shorebirds during migration periods.&nbsp;



The surrounding area features vegetation such as Phragmites australis, Juncus acutus, Aeluropus lagopoides, Salicornia herbacea, and Schoenoplectus litoralis, along with desert shrublands including Tamarix aucherana, Prosopis farcta, and Haloxylon salicornicum.&nbsp;



Mammals reported in this region include Rüppell's fox, golden jackal, Indian grey mongoose, jungle cat, and wildcat.&nbsp;



In recent years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-warming-toward-the-point-of-no-return/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> has faced environmental challenges due to reduced water inflows and increased evaporation, leading to higher salinity levels and a decline in biodiversity. 



Efforts to address these issues are essential to preserve the ecological and economic significance of Lake Razzaza.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-euphrates-river-nbsp">The Euphrates River&nbsp;</h2>



The Euphrates River is one of the most significant rivers in the Middle East and holds immense historical, cultural, and ecological importance.&nbsp;



Stretching approximately 2,800 kilometers (1,740 miles), it originates in the mountains of eastern Turkey and flows through Syria and Iraq before merging with the Tigris River to form the Shatt al-Arab, which empties into the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-plastic-pollution-lurks-beneath-the-surface-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> has been a cradle of civilization for thousands of years, supporting ancient Mesopotamian societies, including Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria.



The Euphrates has provided water for irrigation, enabling the development of agriculture in an otherwise arid region. Its floodplains have been vital for sustaining life and fostering the growth of cities along its course.&nbsp;



However, the river also plays a key geopolitical role, as disputes over water usage and dam construction among Turkey, Syria, and Iraq have emerged over the years, impacting water availability downstream.



Ecologically, the Euphrates supports a range of habitats, from wetlands to desert ecosystems, making it home to diverse flora and fauna.&nbsp;



However, modern challenges such as damming, pollution, and climate change threaten its flow and ecological balance. Despite these challenges, the Euphrates remains a symbol of life and resilience in the heart of the Middle East.



The image was captured by an astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) on September 23, 2024.



Image Credit: NASA



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Lake Razzaza: A shrinking oasis shaped by salinity

Imagine strolling along the same path where our ancestors once walked, then accidentally discovering human footprints that had been left behind roughly 115,000 years ago. 



This is precisely what happened to a group of archaeologists when they found the oldest-known human footprints on the Arabian Peninsula.



Discovered among the tracks of prehistoric animals, these imprints mark a significant discovery in the study of human migration and life before the Ice Age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-human-footprints-on-the-arabian-peninsula">Early human footprints on the Arabian Peninsula </h2>



In 2017, the fossilized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earliest-human-footprints-ever-found-are-believed-to-be-300000-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracks</a> were spotted in a special lakebed region of northern Saudi Arabia. The tracks consisted of seven discrete footprints.



"Here, we report hominin and non-hominin mammal footprints and fossils from the Alathar lacustrine deposit in the western Nefud Desert, Saudi Arabia," noted the researchers.



"We argue that the footprints, dated to the last interglacial and therefore contemporaneous with an early&nbsp;H. sapiens&nbsp;out-of-Africa dispersal, most likely represent the earliest evidence of our species in the Arabian Peninsula."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-footprints-in-similar-states">Human footprints in similar states</h2>



The lakebed, named "the trace" in Arabic, seems to have been a busy spot over 100,000 years ago. The scientists noted that the footprints - which were found in similar states of preservation - were likely generated within a very short time frame. 



"An experimental study of modern human footprints in mud flats found that fine details were lost within two days and prints were rendered unrecognizable within four, and similar observations have been made for other non-hominin mammal tracks," explained the researchers.



Mud, it seems, is nature's perfect canvas to capture history, even though the impressions may be lost rather rapidly from the soft surface. During the Burgess Shale event, for example, organisms were preserved intact because they were caught in a mudslide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tracks-of-our-ancestors">The tracks of our ancestors</h2>



As complex as the past is, several theories have been proposed about the upright primates of that era. Mounting evidence indicates that the tracks were left by members of our own species, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-homo-sapiens-stone-tools-preserved-volcanic-ash-grotta-di-castelcivita/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Homo sapiens</a>.



"Seven hominin footprints were confidently identified and, given the fossil and archaeological evidence for the spread of H. sapiens into the Levant and Arabia during the era 130,000 to 80,000 years ago, and absence of Homo neanderthalensis from the Levant at that time, we argue that H. sapiens was responsible for the tracks at Alathar," stated the researchers. 



Furthermore, the experts noted that the sizes of the Alathar footprints are more consistent with those of early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-homo-sapiens-living-spaces-organized-similarly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H. sapiens</a> than H. neanderthalensis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brief-visits-to-the-lake">Brief visits to the lake</h2>



The scientists did not find marks from tools or knives on the animal bones that were uncovered in the area. In other words, there was no evidence of hunting. 



Does this mean the humans just dropped by for a drink?



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Alathar-paleolake_human-footprints_115000-years-old_ULondon_Science_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Alathar-paleolake_human-footprints_115000-years-old_ULondon_Science_1s.webp" alt="The Alathar paleolake sediments, footprints, and fossils. (A) Plan view of the Alathar paleolake deposits with researchers indicated by white arrowheads. (B) First stratigraphic section (units FS1 to FS3). (C) Second stratigraphic section (units SS1 to SS3) overlying the first but located toward the center of the paleolake. (D and E) Example of an elephant track and trackway, Proboscipeda isp. (F) Camelid trackway, Lamaichnum isp. (G) Camelid forefoot (H) Camelid hindfoot. (I) Equid track, Hippipeda isp. (J) Bovid axis vertebra eroding out of the paleolake sediment. Photo credit: Gilbert Price, The University of Queensland and Richard Clark-Wilson, Royal Holloway, University of London" class="wp-image-1955724"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Alathar paleolake sediments, footprints, and fossils. (A) Plan view of the Alathar paleolake deposits with researchers indicated by white arrowheads. (B) First stratigraphic section (units FS1 to FS3). (C) Second stratigraphic section (units SS1 to SS3) overlying the first but located toward the center of the paleolake. (D and E) Example of an elephant track and trackway, Proboscipeda isp. (F) Camelid trackway, Lamaichnum isp. (G) Camelid forefoot (H) Camelid hindfoot. (I) Equid track, Hippipeda isp. (J) Bovid axis vertebra eroding out of the paleolake sediment. Photo credit: Gilbert Price, The University of Queensland and Richard Clark-Wilson, Royal Holloway, University of London</figcaption></figure>



"The lack of archaeological evidence suggests that the Alathar Lake was only briefly visited by people," the researchers noted. The visit, it seemed, was primarily "tied to the need for potable water."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-last-steps-before-the-ice-age">Last steps before the Ice age</h2>



The fossilized footprints raise the obvious question of who made them, but they also spark another intriguing question: why weren't the tracks covered by those of another group?



One theory is that they may have been the last ones who migrated through a temperate climate before being obliterated by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice Age</a>. Their silent footsteps, captured in the mud, are a reminder of a history we may never fully understand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-footprints-of-ancient-humans-and-animals">Footprints of ancient humans and animals</h2>



The footprints discovered at Alathar Lake not only reveal the presence of early humans but also offer a snapshot of the ecosystem that existed 115,000 years ago. 



Surrounding the human footprints, scientists identified tracks from animals such as elephants, camels, and antelopes. The research paints a vivid picture of a lush environment that was vastly different from the arid desert seen today.



These prehistoric creatures likely gathered around the lake to drink water, much like the humans whose tracks were immortalized in the mud.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-environment-with-shared-resources">Dynamic environment with shared resources </h2>



By analyzing the spatial arrangement and depth of the footprints, researchers can infer details about the behavior and interactions of both humans and animals during this period. 



For instance, the proximity of human and animal tracks suggests a dynamic environment where resources like water attracted a variety of species, enabling brief yet crucial encounters. 



These findings help scientists piece together not just human history but also the broader ecological tapestry of the region before the harsh climatic shifts of the Ice Age began to arrive.



The research was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aba8940">Science Advances</a>. 



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115,000-year-old human footprints found in a location where they should not be

Imagine strolling along the same path where our ancestors once...

On October 19, the US Space Command revealed a troubling incident: the Intelsat 33e satellite broke into approximately 20 pieces, littering an already crowded space with large chunks of space debris. 



The cause remains unknown, but the event has reignited serious concerns about the increasing accumulation of space junk in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).



Experts warn that this growing problem could lead to the dreaded&nbsp;Kessler Syndrome, potentially rendering space exploration and satellite use impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-low-earth-orbit-leo-the-basics">Understanding Low Earth Orbit (LEO) - the basics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-low-earth-orbit-leo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Low Earth Orbit (LEO)</a> is a region of space that lies relatively close to Earth, typically between 100 and 1,200 miles (160 to 2,000 kilometers) above the planet’s surface. 



It’s the most commonly used orbit for satellites and space stations because it’s cheaper and easier to reach than higher orbits. 



In LEO, satellites orbit the Earth much faster, completing a full circle in just about 90 minutes. This means they can pass over the same spot on Earth several times a day, making LEO ideal for things like weather forecasting, communication, and Earth observation.



One of the most famous objects in LEO is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-nasa-plans-to-keep-people-in-space-after-the-iss-is-gone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station (ISS)</a>, which orbits the Earth at about 250 miles (400 kilometers) above the surface. 



LEO is also where most commercial communication satellites, as well as satellites for internet services, operate. 



Their relatively low altitude means they can provide faster data transmission speeds and lower latency compared to satellites in higher orbits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-kessler-syndrome">What is Kessler Syndrome?</h2>



In 1978, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> scientists Donald Kessler and Burton Cour-Palais introduced the concept of&nbsp;Kessler Syndrome - a dire prediction about space debris.



The experts theorized that as objects in orbit collide, the resulting <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-happens-to-all-the-space-junk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">debris</a> could trigger more collisions. These repeated collisions would create a&nbsp;chain reaction, generating an increasing number of fragments in space.



This phenomenon could spiral out of control, leading to a heavily polluted orbital environment. If allowed to continue accumulating unchecked, the debris could render low Earth orbit completely unusable.



This would prevent future satellite launches, disrupt space exploration, and severely impact technologies that rely on satellites, such as GPS, internet, and weather forecasting.



Kessler Syndrome highlights the critical need to manage space debris effectively and prevent cascading collisions that could jeopardize humanity's access to space.



"The Kessler Syndrome is going to come true. If the probability of a collision is so great that we can't put a satellite in space, then we're in trouble," said&nbsp;John L. Crassidis, space debris expert at the <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University at Buffalo</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-debris-a-growing-problem">Space debris: A growing problem</h2>



Space has become <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/undetectable-space-junk-is-now-easier-to-detect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increasingly crowded</a>. There are currently more than 10,000 active satellites orbiting Earth, with approximately 6,800 of these belonging to Elon Musk's <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-is-low-earth-orbit-leo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starlink</a> network.



Companies like SpaceX and Amazon aim to launch thousands more satellites, heightening the risk of collisions.



Since the dawn of spaceflight in 1957, there have been over 650 fragmentation events, including collisions, explosions, and deliberate satellite destruction. 



In 2021, Russia destroyed one of its own satellites in a military test, creating over 1,500 traceable debris fragments.



"The size of the debris we are tracking ranges from small fragments roughly the size of a softball to larger pieces up to the size of a car door," noted Bill Therien, CTO at <a href="https://exoanalytic.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ExoAnalytic Solutions</a>.



"The majority of the tracked objects are on the smaller end of that spectrum, which contributes to the difficulty of consistently observing all the debris pieces."



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



Congestion in orbit endangers astronauts and vital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/clusters-final-mission-a-fiery-return-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space-based technologies</a>. For instance, the&nbsp;ISS&nbsp;has performed numerous evasive maneuvers to avoid debris. 



In one recent incident, a piece of debris came within&nbsp;2.5 miles&nbsp;of the ISS, forcing a Russian spacecraft to adjust its trajectory.



If satellites collide or go offline due to overcrowded space, critical services like&nbsp;GPS, broadband internet, and television&nbsp;could fail. Experts warn that this would cause widespread disruption to modern life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-kessler-syndrome-risks">Mitigating Kessler Syndrome risks</h2>



Efforts are underway to address this growing crisis. The European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) is developing initiatives like <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/ClearSpace-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clearsat-1</a> in collaboration with Swiss startup <a href="https://clearspace.today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ClearSpace</a> to capture and deorbit defunct satellites.



Meanwhile, technologies such as drag sails aim to accelerate the natural descent of debris into Earth's atmosphere.



However, tracking and mitigating debris remains a monumental challenge. The ESA estimates there are over&nbsp;40,500 pieces of debris larger than 10 centimeters&nbsp;and millions of smaller fragments that current technology cannot reliably detect. 



"Even with today’s best sensors, there are limits to what can be reliably 'seen' or tracked, and smaller space debris is often untrackable," said&nbsp;Bob Hall, director at COMSPOC Corp.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-space-regulations">Need for space regulations</h2>



Experts emphasize the urgency of international cooperation to establish binding space regulations. 



<a href="https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future/pact-for-the-future" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The United Nations' Pact for the Future</a> aims to address space debris through frameworks for traffic and resource management. However, enforcement mechanisms are lacking.



"The biggest concern is the lack of regulation," said&nbsp;Dr. Vishnu Reddy, a professor of planetary sciences at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a>. "Having some norms and guidelines that are put forward by the industry will help a lot."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-junk-kessler-syndrome-and-the-future">Space junk, Kessler Syndrome, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, as more satellites are launched into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the risk of collisions and the potential for Kessler Syndrome -- the runaway chain reaction of debris collisions -- becomes an increasingly real threat. 



With over 10,000 active satellites currently in orbit, the crowded space environment is putting everything from space missions to vital technologies like GPS and communication systems in jeopardy. 



Experts warn that without significant efforts to manage and reduce space junk, we could face a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-moon-soil-lunar-regolith-space-debris-into-building-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space exploration</a> and satellite services become nearly impossible.



Proactive measures - ranging from technological solutions to enforceable regulations - are crucial to safeguarding Earth's orbit.



The key to avoiding the worst-case scenario of Kessler Syndrome lies in international cooperation and the establishment of strict regulations to prevent further overcrowding. 



If action is not taken soon, the consequences could be catastrophic - not just for space exploration but for the many aspects of modern life that depend on satellite technology.



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Space junk has become a very big problem in low-Earth orbit

On October 19, the US Space Command revealed a troubling...

A recent study has revealed the presence of a rare parasite called Sarcocystis miescheriana in a domestic pig in central Poland. 



The finding has captured attention because it involved cysts large enough to be spotted during routine meat inspection at a slaughterhouse. Such occurrences are seldom recorded, which makes this detection especially noteworthy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rarely-seen-but-concerning">Rarely seen, but concerning</h2>



Experts point out that large, visible cystic lesions associated with <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/sarcocystis-miescheriana#:~:text=Protozoan%20Parasites&amp;text=Sarcocystis%20forms%20cysts%2C%20also%20known,streaks%20arranged%20lengthwise%20in%20muscles." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarcocystis miescheriana</a> do not show up in pigs very often. 



The research describing this event appears in the Journal of Veterinary Research and has underscored how crucial it is to catch uncommon cases during meat inspections. 



In general, most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pigs-slow-growth-diet-increases-longevity-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pigs</a> do not exhibit any obvious weight loss or breathing problems when infected. This subtle presentation can make early identification challenging in typical farming setups.



A dedicated research team led by <a href="https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8266-581X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Weronika Korpysa-Dzirba</a> from the Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases at the National Veterinary Research Institute (<a href="https://www.nvri.gov.ng/parasitology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NVRI</a>) utilized molecular methods, such as analyzing <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/4512#:~:text=the%20presence%20of%20one%20or,in%20blood%20platelets%20during%20aging." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specific genes</a>, to confirm that these rice-grain-sized nodules were indeed S. miescheriana. 



They extracted ten lesions - each about 0.39 inches long by 0.12 inches wide (1 cm x 0.3 cm) and verified them through gene sequencing. 



Testing confirmed the parasite’s presence, marking the first time scientists have used molecular tools in Poland to verify the presence of S. miescheriana in a pig.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-farmers-and-slaughterhouses">Impact on farmers and slaughterhouses</h2>



Carcass condemnation is possible when these lesions appear, since they raise safety flags during post-mortem inspection. Economic hits can follow if part or all of a carcass gets rejected.&nbsp;



Beyond financial losses, the presence of parasites calls for more frequent monitoring and better farm management. 



Ongoing tests could help producers avoid surprises at the slaughterhouse, which in turn safeguards public confidence in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-pig-day-honoring-the-role-of-an-underappreciated-animal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pork products</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-this-pig-parasite">What is this pig parasite?</h2>



“Sarcocystis infections are quite prevalent in farm animals (higher than 70% in some herbivore populations); however, there have been few outbreaks of clinical disease. Most animals are asymptomatic, and the tissue cysts (chronic stage) are [typically] discovered only at slaughter,” stated the <a href="https://www.merckvetmanual.com/musculoskeletal-system/sarcocystosis/sarcocystosis-in-animals#Etiology,-Transmission,-and-Pathogenesis_v3286641" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck Veterinary Manual</a>. This reference also notes that severe infections can lead to condemned meat if cysts are visible. Even though subclinical infections may not affect an animal’s day-to-day appearance, the discovery of noticeable cysts can trigger concern among inspectors and consumers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-human-awareness-matters">Why human awareness matters</h2>



“In the intestinal type, people get infected by eating undercooked meat containing the parasite. In the muscular type, eating food or water contaminated with the parasite is a risk factor," warns the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/sarcocystosis/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a>.



"An animal will defecate a form of the parasite out, which can then contaminate food or water that people may drink."



Although S. miescheriana itself is not considered transmissible to humans, other varieties, such as S. hominis and S. suihominis, do pose a risk. 



Vigilance in the meat supply chain can help cut down on the chance that people get infected, and proper cooking and handling of the meat is essential to keep the parasites at bay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-bigger-picture">Investigating the bigger picture</h2>



Researchers have suggested that future studies should determine how often S. miescheriana appears in both domestic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-boar-found-with-alarming-levels-of-forever-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild pigs</a>. At the moment, data on the frequency and distribution of infections remains patchy. 



Molecular testing could become a standard part of swine meat inspection if scientists confirm significant risks. This would help pinpoint infected herds more swiftly, reduce the spread of infection, and catch other parasitic species that are more dangerous to people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-reduce-pig-parasite-risk">How to reduce pig parasite risk</h2>



Pork producers can lower the odds of Sarcocystis contamination by improving on-farm hygiene. Measures like stopping dogs or wild canids from roaming near pig pens may help because the parasite can cycle among animals through fecal contamination.&nbsp;



Adequate disinfection methods in barns and strict feed control can also cut down infection rates. Another level of defense is making sure pork is cooked thoroughly, which inactivates <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-parks-may-be-fueling-parasite-outbreaks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parasites</a> that might lurk in undercooked meat.



Experts plan to broaden their use of modern lab techniques at slaughterhouses. They hope this will catch parasitic infections before they enter the market. 



Regulatory bodies could use these methods, along with conventional inspections, to give consumers safer products and maintain trust in the pork sector. 



Some producers might see higher costs if advanced testing becomes routine, yet these steps could help avoid the larger price tag of losing entire carcasses due to suspicious lesions.



The full research report will be published in the <a href="https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/jvetres-2024-0067" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Veterinary Research</a>.



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Scientists report first case of rare parasite in pigs, posing human health risks

A recent study has revealed the presence of a rare...

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Today’s Video of the Day comes from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> and features a look at scientists measuring ice sheet elevation in the South Pole.
The NASA team will be observing a route that has never before been documented. 
The data will be used to improve the upcoming global laser altimeter mission ICESat-2, which will measure the height of the planet from orbit.
 &#8212;
By <a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com">Rory Arnold</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer
Video Credit: <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a>

Measuring South Pole ice sheet elevation