<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features a stunningly beautiful photo of the Hainan Strait. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite as it orbited over southern China.</p>



<p>“The Hainan Strait, or Qiongzhou Strait, separates Guangdong's Leizhou Peninsula on China’s mainland to the north and the island province of Hainan to the south. It also connects the Gulf of Tonkin on the west to the South China Sea on the east,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hainan-strait-nbsp">Hainan Strait&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Hainan Strait is narrow and shallow. At its narrowest point, the strait is about 19 miles wide. Despite this, the Hainan Strait is a busy route for shipping and transportation. It's also vital to local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> industries.</p>



<p>ESA pointed out that in the image, the water along the coasts is light brown due to sediment runoff. </p>



<p>“The curved Leizhou Peninsula juts southward into the South China Sea. The largest island on the east coast, Donghai, forms two bays: Leizhou Bay to its south and Zhanjiang Bay to its north," noted ESA.</p>



<p>“Facing both bays are cities with the same names: Zhanjiang, the largest city on the peninsula, and Leizhou, which gave the peninsula its name." </p>



<p>"Hainan Island dominates the bottom part of the image. The name Hainan means ‘south of the sea,’ reflecting the island's position south of the strait.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-hainan-island">History of Hainan Island </h2>



<p>During the Mesozoic Era about 100 million years ago, Hainan Island was actually part of a larger landmass connected to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/denisovan-tooth-suggests-southeast-asia-was-a-human-diversity-hotspot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southeast Asia</a>. </p>



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



<p>Over time, the movements of Earth's plates caused this landmass to break apart and drift. Hainan separated from the continental shelf near Vietnam and moved to its current position.</p>



<p>This tectonic activity not only shaped the island's current location but also influenced its geological features. Hainan's landscape is characterized by <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>, volcanic formations, and rich mineral deposits, which are direct results of these ancient geological processes.</p>



<p>Understanding this geological history helps explain why Hainan Island has such unique and diverse natural features compared to the mainland of China and nearby regions. The island's distinct wildlife and terrain make it a fascinating subject for geologists and natural historians alike.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-diversity-nbsp">Cultural diversity&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Hainan was once a remote and undeveloped part of China. It was used as a place of exile for disgraced officials during imperial times. </p>



<p>However, it was also a place where diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultures</a> met, as evidenced by the many ethnic groups that live there, including the Li people, who are indigenous to the island.</p>



<p>The island really started to change in the 20th century. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Hainan was occupied by Japanese forces, which had a significant impact on its development. After the war, it became a part of the People’s Republic of China in 1950.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-development-nbsp">Rapid development&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In the 1980s, Hainan was designated a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which marked the beginning of its transformation into a major economic and tourist hub. </p>



<p>The SEZ status attracted significant investment and spurred rapid development, particularly in the capital city of Haikou and the resort city of Sanya.</p>



<p>Today, Hainan is known for its lush landscapes, tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caribbean-salt-affects-global-climate-study-reveals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a>, and booming tourism industry. It's also becoming a key player in China's efforts to develop its free trade zones, aiming to become a major center for trade and commerce in the region.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/ Copernicus Sentinel-2&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Hainan Strait in southern China

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features NGC 1792, a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Columba about 43 million light-years away from Earth. </p>



<p>This galaxy, discovered by British astronomer James Dunlop in 1826, is part of the larger NGC 1808 group of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intimate-view-of-ngc-1792">Intimate view of NGC 1792</h2>



<p>“An orange glow radiates from the center of NGC 1792, the heart of this stellar forge. Captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, this intimate view of NGC 1792 gives us some insight into this galactic powerhouse,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“The vast swathes of tell-tale blue seen throughout the galaxy indicate areas that are full of young, hot stars, and it is in the shades of orange, seen nearer the center, that the older, cooler stars reside.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vigorous-star-formation-nbsp">Vigorous star formation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>NGC 1792 is notable for its vigorous star formation, classifying it as a starburst galaxy. This high rate of star formation is thought to be triggered by gravitational interactions with neighboring galaxies, though the exact cause is still under study.</p>



<p>“Nestled in the constellation of Columba (The Dove), NGC 1792 is both a spiral galaxy, and a starburst galaxy,” said ESA. “Within starburst galaxies, stars are forming at comparatively exorbitant rates. The rate of star formation can be more than 10 times faster in a starburst galaxy than in the Milky Way.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fierce-bursts-of-star-formation">Fierce bursts of star formation</h2>



<p>ESA noted that when galaxies have a large reservoir of gas, like NGC 1792, these short-lived starburst phases can be sparked by galactic events such as mergers and tidal interactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“One might think that these starburst galaxies would easily consume all of their gas in a large forming event. However, supernova explosions and intense stellar winds produced in these powerful starbursts can inject energy into the gas and disperse it.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This halts the star formation before it can completely deplete the galaxy of all its fuel. Scientists are actively working to understand this complex interplay between the dynamics that drive and quench these fierce bursts of star formation.”</p>



<p>Due to its distance and brightness, NGC 1792 can be observed with medium-sized telescopes under favorable conditions.</p>



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



<p>Galaxy evolution refers to the process by which galaxies form and change over time. It begins in the early universe, shortly after the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-observations-disprove-big-bang-theory-universe-began-tired-light-theory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Bang</a>, when small density fluctuations in the primordial gas led to the collapse of matter into the first galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-mergers">Galaxy mergers</h3>



<p>These early galaxies were small and irregular, composed mostly of gas and dark matter. Over billions of years, galaxies grew larger by merging with one another and by accreting gas from the surrounding space.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These interactions often triggered bursts of star formation, and collisions between galaxies sometimes led to the creation of new, more massive galaxies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structural-changes">Structural changes</h3>



<p>As galaxies evolve, their morphology - their shape and structure - can change. Early galaxies were often irregular or disk-shaped, but over time, many galaxies formed into the elliptical or spiral shapes we see today.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation">Star formation</h3>



<p>Star formation is a key driver of galaxy evolution, but it gradually slows down as galaxies age. </p>



<p>The gas that fuels <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> can be used up, or it can be heated and pushed out of galaxies by supernovae or black holes, reducing the galaxy's ability to form new stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-environment-nbsp">Galaxy environment&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The environment in which a galaxy resides also plays a role in its evolution. Galaxies in dense clusters are more likely to interact with their neighbors, which can alter their shape or trigger bursts of star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, galaxies in more isolated regions of space evolve more slowly and without as many dramatic interactions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter">Dark matter</h3>



<p>Dark matter also plays a crucial role in galaxy evolution. It provides the gravitational framework that holds galaxies together and influences their interactions with one another.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=Galaxies%20merge&amp;start=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, found at the centers of most large galaxies, can also affect their evolution by releasing energy that impacts star formation and the movement of gas within the galaxy.</p>



<p>Overall, galaxy evolution is a complex and ongoing process driven by interactions between stars, gas, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-dark-matter-does-not-exist-and-the-universe-is-27-billion-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>, and black holes, and shaped by both internal processes and external influences.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>:</strong> ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA, J. Lee</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Starburst galaxy in the constellation Columba

<p>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. </p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p>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;</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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;</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



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



<p>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;</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a galaxy that is located about 600 million light-years away in the constellation Gemini. The Hubble Space Telescope observed a supernova in this galaxy - which appears as a bright blue dot in the photograph.</p>



<p>“This picture was taken roughly two months after a supernova named SN 2022aajn was discovered in this galaxy. The supernova is visible as a blue dot at the center of the image, brightening the hazy body of the galaxy,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-supernova">What is a supernova?</h2>



<p>Supernovae are spectacular explosions marking the violent deaths of stars. These cosmic events are so luminous they can briefly outshine entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-are-much-bigger-than-we-originally-believed-gas-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and radiate more energy in a few weeks than our Sun will in its entire lifetime.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Supernovae explosions release heavy elements like carbon, oxygen, and iron into the interstellar medium. This stellar debris becomes the building blocks for new stars, planets, and even life itself. </p>



<p>Supernovae also produce neutron stars or black holes, depending on the remaining core’s mass after the explosion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-supernovae-nbsp">Types of supernovae&nbsp;</h2>



<p>There are two main types of supernovae, classified based on their causes. Type I supernovae occur when 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> in a binary system accretes material from its companion star, eventually reaching a critical mass and triggering a runaway nuclear reaction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Type II supernovae happen when a massive star, at least eight times the mass of the Sun, exhausts its nuclear fuel. Unable to support its own gravity, the core collapses, resulting in a massive explosion that ejects the outer layers into space.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-distance-to-faraway-galaxies-nbsp">Measuring the distance to faraway galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to ESA, SN 2022aajn is a Type Ia supernova. “Supernovae of this type help astronomers measure the distance to faraway galaxies. This is possible because Type Ia supernovae are thought to be of the same intrinsic luminosity - no matter how bright they seem from Earth, they put out the same amount of light as other Type Ia supernovae.”</p>



<p>This means that researchers can calculate the distance to the supernova and its host galaxy by comparing the observed brightness to the expected brightness.</p>



<p>“This seemingly simple measurement method is complicated by cosmic dust. The farther away a supernova is, the fainter and redder it will appear - but intergalactic dust can make a supernova appear fainter and redder as well,” explained ESA.</p>



<p>“To understand this complication, researchers will use Hubble to survey a total of 100 Type Ia supernovae in seven wavelength bands from the ultraviolet to the near-infrared.”</p>



<p>By analyzing the brightness of supernovae across multiple wavelengths, researchers can distinguish between the influences of dust and distance, refining our measurements of galaxies that exist billions of light-years away.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-many-galaxies-exist">How many galaxies exist?</h2>



<p>The number of galaxies in the universe is estimated to be around two trillion, based on observations from Hubble and more recent data from the James Webb Space Telescope. </p>



<p>This estimate is derived from deep-field surveys that reveal countless galaxies, each containing billions to trillions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interstellar-tunnel-found-that-connects-our-solar-system-to-other-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, because our observations are limited by current technology and the vastness of the cosmos, the actual number could be even higher.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-galaxies-formed-from-the-earliest-elements-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> remain unseen due to their extreme distances, faintness, or obstruction by cosmic dust.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-gemini-nbsp">The constellation Gemini&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Gemini is one of the 12 zodiac constellations and is best known for representing the mythological twins Castor and Pollux. It is located in the northern celestial hemisphere and is most visible during winter in the Northern Hemisphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The constellation is bordered by Taurus to the west, Cancer to the east, and Orion to the south.</p>



<p>The two brightest stars in Gemini - Castor and Pollux - represent the heads of the twins and are easy to spot. Pollux, the brighter of the two, is an orange giant star about 34 light-years from Earth, while Castor is a more complex system made up of six stars. </p>



<p>The constellation also contains several notable deep-sky objects, including the open cluster Messier 35, which is a beautiful collection of young stars located near Gemini’s western border.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Hubble spots a supernova in the constellation Gemini 

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-planetary-nebula">Complex planetary nebula </h2>



<p>According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.</p>



<p>“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.</p>



<p>“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the cat’s eye</h2>



<p>“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”</p>



<p>According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”</p>



<p>Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-draco-nbsp">The constellation Draco&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.</p>



<p>Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



<p>Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

<p>Researchers have uncovered a surprising behavior in boron-doped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diamonds-can-be-grown-in-a-lab-in-less-than-3-hours/">diamonds</a>, where electrons line up in collective waves that interact with light and electricity in ways that scientists did not think possible.</p>



<p>The discovery involves a special process in which boron atoms are introduced into the diamond structure, thus transforming an otherwise insulating crystal into a conductor while keeping much of its clarity intact.</p>



<p>This milestone could open fresh possibilities in the fields of quantum computing and advanced sensors. </p>



<p>The research was coordinated by <a href="https://physics.case.edu/faculty/giuseppe-strangi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Giuseppe Strangi </a>from Case Western Reserve University, who oversaw the experiments that brought these unusual electronic waves into the spotlight.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-into-electronic-waves">Peeking into electronic waves</h2>



<p>Scientists explain that doping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pink-diamonds-were-formed-when-supercontinent-nuna-broke-up/">diamond with boron</a> creates “electronic holes” where an electron is missing. This vacancy can freely move through the crystal and carry current, which is why boron-doped diamond can conduct electricity while still maintaining its transparent appearance.</p>



<p>“These holes can also respond collectively to incoming light. This discovery changes our approach to manipulating light and electricity in materials, bringing us closer to the full potential of quantum technologies,” explained Strangi.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interval-plasmons-and-their-allure">Interval plasmons and their allure</h2>



<p>Researchers refer to these special electron waves as interval <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/plasmon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plasmons</a>. Conventional metals exhibit similar phenomena, but metals are not transparent and tend to reflect light.</p>



<p>Diamond stands apart because it remains optically clear, allowing these waves to form without blocking light. </p>



<p>This aspect could be used in next-generation quantum devices that rely on manipulating and detecting faint signals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-computing-inspiration">Quantum computing inspiration</h2>



<p>Diamond has long been used in cutting-edge applications, especially for quantum technologies. Boron doping adds an extra layer of interest, with these newly observed interval plasmons potentially suggesting new ways to control and transfer quantum information.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.si.edu/spotlight/hope-diamond/history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hope Diamond</a> is famous for its blue color, which arises partly from traces of boron. That same impurity can now be harnessed for more advanced tasks, possibly including future developments in quantum chips and secure communication networks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medical-and-sensing-benefits">Medical and sensing benefits</h2>



<p>A boron-doped diamond can tolerate harsh environments because it is chemically inert. This stability means it can endure strong acids or high temperatures, making it suitable for medical imaging devices and sensitive detection tools.</p>



<p>“Understanding how doping alters the properties of semiconductors like diamond revolutionizes the way we design materials for advanced applications,” pointed out <a href="https://npre.illinois.edu/people/profile/rmohan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mohan Sankaran</a>, a nuclear and plasma engineering expert at the University of Illinois.</p>



<p>Researchers worked with sophisticated spectroscopy tools, which helped them identify the exact conditions that give rise to these plasmons. The interplay between electrical conductivity and optical clarity made the effort worthwhile.</p>



<p>These findings might influence other high-performance devices. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/floating-solar-panels-could-power-entire-countries/">Solar cell technology </a>could benefit from the unique combination of transparency and electrical conduction, potentially improving the collection of light and its conversion into electricity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-difficulties-in-measuring">Difficulties in measuring</h2>



<p>Precise control of boron concentration remains a hurdle. Achieving the perfect ratio without reducing transparency or damaging the crystal structure of the diamond requires careful tuning on the microscopic level.</p>



<p>Measuring interval plasmons also demands specialized equipment, and the complexity adds another layer to the engineering challenge. Scientists believe these obstacles can be overcome with improvements in synthesis methods.</p>



<p>Boron-doped diamond research has strong links to miniaturized electronics, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossible-quantum-effects-observed-atoms-positioned-closely-together/">quantum effects</a> become more relevant as devices shrink. </p>



<p>Traditional materials often lose their appeal when size moves toward the nanoscale, but diamond may hold on to its advantages.</p>



<p>The conduction behavior, combined with optical clarity, is inspiring new designs in quantum circuits. These circuits are designed to run faster and more securely, ultimately helping data processing push beyond conventional limitations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-diamond-synthesis">Legacy of diamond synthesis</h2>



<p>In the 1960s, researchers at Case Western Reserve laid important groundwork by synthesizing diamond under low pressure. </p>



<p>Such developments set the stage for the present doping breakthroughs, which bridge old theories with modern practical applications.</p>



<p>This latest advance shows how small tweaks in the diamond lattice can yield big dividends. The interplay between electrons and light, that once was hidden, is finally in plain view.</p>



<p>Scientists view the new findings as an encouraging path for other, wide-bandgap semiconductors. If boron can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-diamond-dust-reverse-global-warming-and-cool-the-planet/">enhance diamond</a> in this way, related techniques may boost materials like silicon carbide or gallium nitride in similar fashion.</p>



<p>Though commercial-scale applications may still be some distance down the road, researchers are optimistic.</p>



<p>They see new opportunities for biochips, imaging devices, and quantum technologies that rely on materials with long-term stability and precise control.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55353-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Check us out on<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/"> EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/"> Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

'Doped' diamonds discovery may reshape quantum computing

Researchers have uncovered a surprising behavior in boron-doped diamonds, where...

<p>Science lovers across Europe are buzzing about a new, record-breaking discovery. It’s a shrub, not a towering tree, that holds the title of the continent’s oldest woody plant.</p>



<p>This tiny juniper, found in Finnish Lapland, measures around four inches across its trunk. Researchers say it’s 1,647 years old, making it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-trees-help-the-endangered-wolf-lichen-survive/">older than any known tree</a> in Europe.</p>



<p>An international research team led by <a href="https://intra.tesaf.unipd.it/carrer/Marco_Carrer_CV.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marco Carrer</a>, forest ecologist at the Department of Territory and Agroforestry Systems of the University of Padua, confirmed these findings. </p>



<p>They also highlight that this shy-looking plant has surpassed existing records by more than four centuries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-significance-of-old-shrubs">The significance of old shrubs</h2>



<p>Many people envision centuries-old giants when they think of ancient woody life. Yet shrubs, like the <a href="https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/common-juniper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common juniper</a>, can endure through the extremes of climate, and illustrate how adaptation and survival can span more than a thousand years.</p>



<p>Shrubs in challenging environments often face harsh weather, limited nutrients, and slow growth. Their longevity may be a key to understanding how plants adapt to rapid global changes.</p>



<p>Several previous reports have noted exceptionally old shrub individuals from localities as diverse as the Tibetan Plateau and the Mediterranean. They are also sometimes found living in harsh conditions at high altitudes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-juniper">A closer look at juniper</h2>



<p>The common juniper tree is the most widely distributed conifer species in the world. It's trunks can reveal clues about past environmental shifts and weather events. </p>



<p>“We study wood rings from which we extract precious information about climate change and vegetation development,” said <a href="https://www.unipd.it/en/yr-msca-prendin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Angela Luisa Prendin</a>, one of the authors of the study paper.</p>



<p>“However, when you go to the far north, trees give way to smaller plants,” she noted. Her team decided to focus on this particular, low-lying juniper species and to investigate its fascinating growth rings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-new-record-matters">Why the new record matters</h2>



<p>“The <a href="https://brill.com/display/title/17009?language=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common juniper</a> is known to everyone as a spice in the kitchen or an ingredient in the production of gin,” said Carrer. It might not look majestic, but its longevity is rewriting what we know about the upper limits of shrub life.</p>



<p>“From today, this record is also added to that of being the oldest shrub in the world,” said Carrer. The hardy nature of this plant helps it thrive in diverse habitats, from glacial regions to scorching dunes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-a-changing-climate">Navigating a changing climate</h2>



<p>Scientists <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/6/4/045509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suggest</a> that rising temperatures may lead to the northward dispersal of tree populations, which will put pressure on established shrubs. </p>



<p>In some areas, though, harsher conditions could favor shrubs if trees struggle to survive with limited resources.</p>



<p>Shrubs have already expanded in certain high-latitude spots, reflecting a unique interplay between warming trends and local ecosystem limits. </p>



<p>Still, older junipers stand firm against many environmental twists, establishing their place as strong survivors in these habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-past-climates">A window into past climates</h2>



<p>Dendrochronology, the study of annual growth rings in woody plants, isn’t limited to towering trunks. Even a small juniper stem can show centuries of environmental records etched into its wood.</p>



<p>Such data can help researchers pinpoint past temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, and extreme events. </p>



<p>By comparing <a href="https://www.ltrr.arizona.edu/~ellisqm/outgoing/dendroecology2014/readings/Grissino_mayer_COFECHA_2001.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ring widths</a>, they identify specific years that may have brought unusual cold snaps or droughts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-small-giants">Protecting small giants</h2>



<p>Unlike many iconic old-growth forests, these shrubs often go unnoticed and unprotected. With warming trends and shifting ecological boundaries, conservationists worry that ancient junipers could be squeezed out.</p>



<p>Once they disappear, centuries of subtle ecological memories vanish with them. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9303657/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Experts</a> believe careful monitoring and protection strategies can ensure they remain part of the landscape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-legacy-worth-celebrating">A legacy worth celebrating</h2>



<p>This record-breaking discovery speaks to the patience and persistence of nature. The shrub may be small, but it carries a long story of survival.</p>



<p>As scientists keep uncovering new details, these ancient individuals may rewrite our understanding of longevity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insects-are-uniquely-adapted-to-withstand-harsh-winter-climates/">harsh climates</a>. </p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11751590/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Ecology</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read?<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/"> Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Check us out on<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/"> EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/"> Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Tiny shrub holds the record for Europe's oldest tree

Science lovers across Europe are buzzing about a new, record-breaking...

<p>Earth system models (ESMs) are essential tools for studying complex planetary processes, including interactions between the atmosphere and biosphere. These models help scientists and policymakers better understand climate change and its impacts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, improving the accuracy of Earth system models often requires gathering vast amounts of data - an effort that can take decades, if not centuries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-plant-data-for-climate-models-nbsp">Expanding plant data for climate models&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A new study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41597-024-04254-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Scientific Data</em></a> presents a breakthrough approach to this challenge. The researchers have developed a method to bypass the need for extensive field data collection across all known tree species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, they leveraged evolutionary relationships between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-actively-shaped-earths-climate-cycle-throughout-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to estimate key hydrologic traits, significantly expanding the data available for global climate modeling.</p>



<p>Study lead author James Knighton is an assistant professor in the <a href="https://uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a>’s Department of Natural Resources and the Environment.</p>



<p>Pablo Sanchez-Martinez from the University of Edinburgh and Leander Anderegg from the University of California Santa Barbara are co-authors of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-plants-in-water-movement">The role of plants in water movement</h2>



<p>Plants play a fundamental role in Earth’s environmental systems, from capturing carbon and producing oxygen to influencing the movement of water across ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Knighton, an estimated 60% of all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainwater</a> is returned to the atmosphere through plant transpiration, a process that moves water from soil to air through plant tissues.</p>



<p>This water movement is currently represented in ESMs in a simplified manner, often grouping plants into broad categories called Plant Functional Types (PFTs).</p>



<p>“Plant Functional Types (PFTs) are used because we don’t know a lot about the details of individual plant species,” Knighton explained. “It would be harder to take a detailed map of vegetation over a continent and put in all the right values for each individual species, so it’s easier just to consider one generic PFT.”</p>



<p>While PFTs provide a manageable approach for modeling, they overlook key differences in plant hydrologic traits - such as root depth, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-cycles-through-plants-with-unexpected-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> transport efficiency, and transpiration rates - that can significantly affect climate projections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-climate-models">A new approach to climate models</h2>



<p>To improve the representation of plant traits in climate models, scientists have built databases like the <a href="https://www.try-db.org/TryWeb/Home.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRY Plant Trait Database</a>, which compiles field measurements of plant characteristics. However, progress in cataloging traits has been slow.</p>



<p>“There are around 60,000 to 70,000 tree species on Earth, meaning that after 200 years, we know maybe 5 to 10% of what’s happening,” noted Knighton.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“If that were the way we would do things, it would take us another 2,000 years or so to learn about all the plants that we needed to, and at that point, climate change has set in, and it’s too late.”</p>



<p>Given the urgency of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate modeling</a>, waiting for field researchers to collect direct measurements is not a viable solution. Instead, Knighton and his colleagues devised a faster method to estimate missing plant traits using evolutionary relationships.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-evolution-to-predict-hydrologic-traits">Using evolution to predict hydrologic traits</h2>



<p>To address the knowledge gap, the researchers turned to phylogenetics, the study of evolutionary relationships between species. They examined available trait data - such as tree height, root depth, and water transport speed - across known species and then analyzed how closely related species share these traits.</p>



<p>“We looked to see how similar trait values are between closely related species, and the idea behind that is, if these traits are critical for their survival, evolution will have preserved the trait values, they won’t be randomly dispersed,” Knighton explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“For example, if growing deep roots was critical for a certain type of plant to survive, the species that branch off from that one will probably also have deep roots, and everything that’s in that family or that genus will have a similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autophagy-what-makes-plant-roots-grow-faster-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">root structure</a>.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-data-for-thousands-of-tree-species-nbsp">Missing data for thousands of tree species&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers found that hydrologic traits are highly conserved across evolutionary lineages, meaning that closely related species tend to have similar characteristics. This discovery enabled them to predict missing data for over 55,000 tree species by inferring trait values from their known relatives.</p>



<p>“We used different numerical machine learning techniques, and in doing that, we were able to come up with a database of these very critical tree values for 55,000 tree species on Earth,” Knighton said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This approach allows modelers to move beyond the oversimplified PFT system, providing a much more detailed representation of plant diversity in climate simulations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-estimated-plant-traits">Confirming the estimated plant traits</h2>



<p>While the research marks a major step forward, the scientists acknowledge that their method represents a first approximation. The next phase of their work involves validating the estimated traits against real-world observations.</p>



<p>“We consider this work to be a low-order approximation, but it is an important starting point,” Knighton explained. “As more data is collected from field researchers, the data can be used to update and refine the interpolated data to improve the accuracy of this approach.”</p>



<p>To test their estimates, the researchers are comparing their predictions against observational data from 10 well-documented forest sites across the United States. </p>



<p>Master’s student Caroline Stanton is currently constructing ecosystem models for each site and calibrating them with high-resolution plant trait data. </p>



<p>These models will then be compared to field data collected over the past two decades to assess how well the inferred traits match real-world measurements.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-tool-for-climate-simulation">A new tool for climate simulation</h2>



<p>If successful, the method could be applied to forested ecosystems worldwide. Beyond simply improving climate models, the dataset could help scientists understand what drives variation in plant traits and how these variations affect global environmental processes.</p>



<p>“If you want to do global modeling that includes more detail in the vegetation, which is important, you now have a starting point,” Knighton emphasized.</p>



<p>By dramatically expanding the dataset available for climate simulations, this research provides a new tool for modelers, ecologists, and policymakers working to predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With further refinement, it could play a key role in shaping more accurate forecasts of Earth’s future climate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water cycles</a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Smarter climate models: How plants influence the water cycle

Earth system models (ESMs) are essential tools for studying complex...

<div id="5905f079f5bcb1100a108ae3" class="vdb_player vdb_59084fb6f5bcb1100a1091bc58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"></div>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400">Today’s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400"> comes thanks to the </span><a href="http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/02/Earth_from_Space_Lake_Success"><span style="font-weight: 400">European Space Agency</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400"> series </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400">Earth From Space. </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400">The clip features a look at the waters of California’s Lake Success, as viewed from the Sentinel-1 satellite. After years of severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/catastrophic-drought-california/">drought</a>, recent rains have caused water levels to rise at the parched Lake Success. Officials have even begun releasing water from the lake as it has now reached near capacity.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400">By Rory Arnold, Earth.com Staff Writer</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400">Source:</span></i><a href="http://www.esa.int/spaceinvideos/Videos/2017/02/Earth_from_Space_Lake_Success"><i><span style="font-weight: 400"> ESA</span></i></a></p>


Earth from space: Lake Success