Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of Mount Nemrut, a volcano located in eastern Turkey near Lake Van.



Mount Nemrut is notable for its immense caldera, which was formed through a series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a>. The caldera, one of the largest in the world, now contains several lakes such as Lake Nemrut.&nbsp;



"The eastern half of the caldera is partially filled by solidified lava flows from past eruptions. Snow cover present at the time of this photo accentuates pressure ridges that formed as the lava was flowing and cooling," noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



"These pressure ridges vary in size, thickness, and orientation due to the varying viscosity and flow direction of the lavas during eruptions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-lake-nemrut">Formation of Lake Nemrut</h2>



"Lake Nemrut (Nemrut Gölü) occupies the western half of the caldera, creating a rough crescent shape that partially submerges the old lava flows," said NASA.



"This freshwater lake, reaching up to 176 meters deep, is accompanied by a smaller lake at the upper-center of the caldera."



The lake was formed after the collapse of the Nemrut volcano's summit. This collapse created a massive crater, which gradually filled with water over time, forming 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>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unesco-world-heritage-site">UNESCO World Heritage Site </h2>



Mount Nemrut and its surroundings are part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological and geological significance.



The site is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species that use the lake as a stopover during migration. The caldera also contains smaller lakes and wetlands, adding to the area's biodiversity.



Lake Nemrut is a popular destination for tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape.



Despite its popularity, the lake remains relatively remote and unspoiled, contributing to its appeal as a natural wonder.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-nemrut-has-shaped-the-landscape">Mount Nemrut has shaped the landscape</h2>



Geologically, Mount Nemrut is interesting because its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eruptions</a> have played a key role in shaping the local landscape. 



Its last major eruption occurred around 1441 AD, which indicates that it's not currently active but is considered dormant.



The area around Nemrut is known for its geothermal activity, including hot springs and fumaroles, suggesting that there is still significant heat beneath the surface.



Over thousands of years, various civilizations have inhabited the region around Nemrut, leaving behind a wealth of archaeological sites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-a-king">Tribute to a king</h2>



The summit of Mount Nemrut is dominated by a vast funerary mound constructed by King Antiochus I Theos, who ruled the Kingdom of Commagene in the 1st century BCE. 



The site was intended to serve as his tomb sanctuary and a place to commemorate the king's vision of divine kingship and unity between Eastern and Western cultures.



The mound, made of loose crushed stones, measures about 50 meters (164 feet) in height and spans a diameter of 150 meters (492 feet), creating an imposing feature visible from afar.



Surrounding the mound are terraces on the eastern, western, and northern sides, each adorned with colossal statues and reliefs. The statues, ranging in height from 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet), represent various deities, including Zeus, Apollo, Hercules, and the goddess Tyche, alongside King Antiochus himself. 



The heads of the statues, many of which have toppled over due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earthquakes</a> and erosion, lie scattered around the site, creating an iconic and enigmatic scene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiritual-and-religious-practices">Spiritual and religious practices</h2>



In addition to the statues, inscriptions at Mount Nemrut provide valuable historical information about the kingdom, the king's lineage, and the religious practices of the time.



The site is not only a marvel of ancient engineering but also a spiritual and astronomical center. Scholars believe the terraces were aligned with celestial events, serving as an observatory for solstices and equinoxes.



In addition to its natural and historical significance, the Nemrut volcano has been the subject of scientific study, as researchers aim to understand more about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in the region, the history of its eruptions, and the potential risks it may pose in the future.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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.



—--



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

Mount Nemrut: Ancient mysteries and natural marvels 

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) features the Dark Wolf Nebula, located around 5,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Scorpius.



According to ESO, this image of the dark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-ring-nebula-as-it-has-never-been-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> creates the illusion of a wolf-like silhouette against a colorful cosmic backdrop.&nbsp;



“This image takes up an area in the sky equivalent to four full Moons, but is actually part of an even larger nebula called Gum 55. If you look closely, the wolf could even be a werewolf, its hands ready to grab unsuspecting bystanders,” noted <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-dark-nebulae">Observing dark nebulae </h2>



Dark nebulae are dense regions in space filled with gas and dust that absorb visible light, making them appear as dark patches against brighter backgrounds.&nbsp;



Unlike emission or reflection nebulae, dark nebulae do not glow on their own. Instead, they obstruct and obscure the light from stars and other objects lying behind them.&nbsp;



This characteristic makes them challenging to observe using visible-light telescopes, as they absorb and scatter light rather than reflecting or emitting it.&nbsp;



However, when viewed in infrared, where their obscuring effect is reduced, dark nebulae reveal intricate details about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular clouds</a> they contain.



According to ESO, astronomers study these clouds of frozen dust because they often contain new stars in the making.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-wolf-nebula-nbsp">Dark Wolf Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Dark Wolf Nebula is part of a larger complex known as the Lupus Molecular Cloud, one of several significant star-forming regions close to Earth.&nbsp;



Inside of dark nebulae, the conditions are prime for star formation. The dense gas and dust clump together under gravitational forces. As these clouds contract, they heat up, eventually igniting nuclear fusion and forming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new stars</a>.



The Dark Wolf Nebula is known for revealing young, low-mass stars - or T Tauri stars - which are in the early stages of their evolution. These stars are still surrounded by disks of material that may eventually form new planets.



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



Scorpius is one of the most recognizable constellations in the sky. It resembles a scorpion with a long, curved tail and stinger.&nbsp;



Located in the southern sky, Scorpius is especially visible during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere and during the winter months in the Southern Hemisphere. 



The constellation is often associated with the story of Orion in Greek mythology. According to legend, the scorpion was sent by the goddess Artemis to kill Orion, the great hunter, either as punishment for his arrogance or to protect her animals, depending on the version of the tale.&nbsp;



The gods later placed both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a> and Scorpius in the sky, but in opposite parts of the heavens so they would never be seen together - as Scorpius rises in the east and Orion sets in the west.



Scorpius contains several notable stars and deep-sky objects. Its brightest star, Antares, is a red supergiant often referred to as the "heart of the scorpion" due to its reddish hue and central position. 



Antares is one of the largest visible stars in the sky and has a luminosity that is tens of thousands of times greater than that of our Sun. 



Scorpius is located close to the core of the Milky Way, making it a rich region for star clusters and nebulae. Among these are the Butterfly Cluster and the Ptolemy Cluster - both of which are visible to the naked eye under dark skies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-dark-wolf-nebula">Image of the Dark Wolf Nebula </h2>



“This image shows in spectacular detail how the dark wolf stands out against the glowing star-forming clouds behind it,” noted ESO.



“The colorful clouds are built up mostly of hydrogen gas and glow in reddish tones excited by the intense UV radiation from the newborn stars within them.”



The picture was created from images taken at different times. Each of the images has a filter that makes a different color of light visible.&nbsp;



Observations of the Dark Wolf Nebula provide astronomers with valuable information about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of stars</a> and the environments in which they form.



The image was captured by the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at ESO’s Paranal Observatory in Chile.



Image Credit: ESO/VPHAS+ team



-----



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.



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.



-----

Dark Wolf Nebula in the constellation Scorpius

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory...

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;



-----



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.



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.



-----

Secrets of the Little Dumbbell Nebula  

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Westerlund 1 - a young star cluster located in the Milky Way galaxy.&nbsp;



Discovered by Swedish astronomer Bengt Westerlund in 1961, the cluster is composed of thousands of stars - many of which are supergiants - and contains some of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-stars-shape-planetary-systems-like-ours-with-ultraviolet-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive stars</a> ever observed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-image-of-westerlund-1">Webb image of Westerlund 1</h2>



“The open cluster Westerlund 1, showcased in this new Webb Picture of the Month, is located roughly 12,000 light-years away in the southern constellation Ara (the Altar) where it resides behind a huge interstellar cloud of gas and dust,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“Westerlund 1 is an incomparable natural laboratory for the study of extreme stellar physics, helping astronomers to find out how the most massive stars in our galaxy live and die.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-special-about-westerlund-1">What is special about Westerlund 1?</h2>



According to ESA, the unique draw of Westerlund 1 is its large, dense, and diverse population of massive stars. The star cluster is unparalleled in the known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> galaxy in terms of the number of stars and the richness of spectral types and evolutionary phases.&nbsp;



“All stars identified in this cluster are evolved and very massive, spanning the full range of stellar classifications including Wolf-Rayet stars, OB supergiants, yellow hypergiants (nearly as bright as a million Suns) and luminous blue variables. Because such stars have a rather short life, Westerlund 1 is very young, astronomically speaking,” said ESA.



“Astronomers estimate the cluster’s age to be somewhere between 3.5 and 5 million years (its exact age is still a matter of debate), making it a newborn cluster in our galaxy.”



Westerlund 1 is expected to gradually evolve from an open cluster to a globular cluster - a spherical collection of stars that are tightly bound together by gravity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-the-milky-way-galaxy-nbsp">Star formation in the Milky Way galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



The Milky Way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> forms roughly 1 to 2 stars per year on average. This star formation rate is relatively moderate compared to more active galaxies, which can produce dozens or even hundreds of stars annually.



The Milky Way galaxy used to produce many more stars, likely hitting its peak about 10 billion years ago. At that time, dozens (or possibly even hundreds) of stars were created in the Milky Way each year.&nbsp;



“Astronomers think that most of this star formation took place in massive clusters of stars, known as ‘super star clusters.’ These are young clusters of stars that contain more than 10,000 times the mass of the Sun, packed into an unbelievably small volume. They represent the most extreme environments in which stars and planets can form,” said ESA.&nbsp;



“Only a few super star clusters still exist in our galaxy - of which Westerlund 1 is one - but they offer important clues about this earlier era when most of our galaxy’s stars formed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impressive-example-of-a-star-cluster-nbsp">Impressive example of a star cluster&nbsp;</h2>



ESA noted that Westerlund 1 is an impressive example of a super star cluster because it contains hundreds of very massive stars. Some of these stars shine with the brilliance of almost a million suns, while others are two thousand times larger than the sun. 



“Indeed, if the Solar System was located at the heart of this remarkable cluster, our sky would be full of hundreds of stars as bright as the full Moon."



The large population of massive stars in Westerlund 1 indicates that it will greatly influence its surroundings, noted ESA. With such a high concentration of these stars, the cluster is expected to host over 1,500 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a> within the next 40 million years. 



This "super" star cluster offers astronomers a rare glimpse into one of the most extreme environments in the Universe. 



Westerlund 1 is set to play a key role in advancing our understanding of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>, particularly massive ones, are formed.



The image was captured as part of The Extended Westerlund 1 and 2 Open Clusters Survey (EWOCS) with Webb’s Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam). 



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



-----



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.



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.



-----

Westerlund 1: Stars with the brilliance of a million suns

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a brilliant stellar nursery located about 163,000 light-years away.



According to ESA, the image is one of the most photogenic examples of the many stellar nurseries observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope during its 30-year lifetime. 



“The portrait features the giant nebula NGC 2014 and its neighbor NGC 2020 which together form part of a vast star-forming region in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



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



Stellar nurseries are regions in space where new stars are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">born</a> - often within vast clouds of gas and dust called molecular clouds.&nbsp;



These areas are fascinating because they are cradles of stellar evolution, where gravity causes clumps of gas to collapse, eventually forming protostars.&nbsp;



Over time, the protostars will heat up and start the nuclear fusion process that powers a star.



One of the most well-known stellar nurseries is the Orion Nebula, which is visible to the naked eye and located about 1,350 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-nature-of-a-stellar-nursery-nbsp">Dynamic nature of a stellar nursery&nbsp;</h2>



Within these nurseries, the balance between gravity and pressure determines the types of stars that form, from massive, luminous stars to smaller, cooler ones like our Sun.&nbsp;



The environment is incredibly dynamic, with powerful winds from young stars shaping the clouds and triggering the birth of even more stars.



These regions are often illuminated by the light from massive newborn stars - creating stunning, colorful displays. The light reveals the intricate structure of the dust and gas, sculpted by the energy of young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-stellar-nurseries-nbsp">Significance of stellar nurseries&nbsp;</h2>



Stellar nurseries are essential for understanding the early stages of planetary formation, as protoplanetary disks (the material from which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets form</a>) are often found around young stars in these regions.



Stellar nurseries play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. They are responsible for the continuous birth of new stars that enrich the interstellar medium with heavier elements. This constant recycling of material is key to the development of future generations of stars and planets.&nbsp;



Furthermore, the study of these regions helps astronomers understand the fundamental processes that govern the life cycles of stars and the overall dynamics of the universe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-local-group">The Local Group</h2>



The Local Group is a collection of over 80 galaxies that includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and the Triangulum Galaxy, along with numerous smaller dwarf galaxies. These galaxies are bound together by gravity and span a region roughly 10 million light-years across.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-ways-thin-disk-is-billions-of-years-older-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and Andromeda are the dominant members, with their respective satellite galaxies orbiting them.&nbsp;



The Local Group is part of a larger structure known as the Virgo Supercluster, and its galaxies are moving toward the gravitational center of the Local Group, contributing to its dynamic nature.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-magellanic-cloud">Large Magellanic Cloud</h2>



The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is the fourth largest galaxy in the Local Group and can be seen with the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;



This irregular dwarf galaxy is home to the Tarantula Nebula, one of the most active star-forming regions in our cosmic neighborhood.&nbsp;



The Large Magellanic Cloud played a key role in astronomical history, particularly when the supernova SN 1987A was observed, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution.&nbsp;



The LMC's interaction with the Milky Way, along with its own companion, the Small Magellanic Cloud, is believed to influence its shape and star formation activity. Its proximity and unique properties make it a crucial object of study for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>, star formation, and the dynamics of interacting galaxies.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and STScI



-----



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.



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.



-----

Hubble captures a stunning stellar nursery

Six years after NASA’s Dawn mission concluded its remarkable exploration of the asteroid belt’s largest bodies, Ceres and Vesta, new findings continue to reshape our understanding of these celestial objects. 



While Vesta has faded from the spotlight, Ceres, a water-rich dwarf planet, remains the center of scientific intrigue.



Recent research led by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (<a href="https://www.iaa.csic.es/en">IAA-</a><a href="https://www.iaa.csic.es/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">C</a><a href="https://www.iaa.csic.es/en">SIC</a>) has identified 11 previously unknown regions on Ceres, hinting at an internal reservoir of organic materials.



Published in&nbsp;The Planetary Science Journal, the study draws on Dawn mission data and innovative analysis methods to deepen our understanding of this enigmatic dwarf planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origin-of-organic-matter-on-ceres">Origin of organic matter on Ceres</h2>



In 2017, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>’s Dawn spacecraft detected organic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-matter-in-a-crater-sparks-new-questions-about-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> near the Ernutet crater in Ceres’ northern hemisphere, igniting debates over their origin. 



The prevailing hypothesis suggested an exogenous origin, where organic materials were delivered by impacts from organic-rich comets or asteroids. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_organic-matter_water_Ernutet-crater_Dawn-spacecraft_credit-NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_organic-matter_water_Ernutet-crater_Dawn-spacecraft_credit-NASA_1s.webp" alt="Data from the Dawn spacecraft show the areas around Ernutet crater where organic material has been discovered (labeled 'a' through 'f'). The intensity of the organic absorption band is represented by colors, where warmer colors indicate higher concentrations. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/UCLA/ASI/INAF/MPS/DLR/IDA" class="wp-image-1953030"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Data from the Dawn spacecraft show the areas around Ernutet crater where organic material has been discovered (labeled 'a' through 'f'). The intensity of the organic absorption band is represented by colors, where warmer colors indicate higher concentrations. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/UCLA/ASI/INAF/MPS/DLR/IDA</figcaption></figure>



However, the new study explores an alternative scenario - that these organic materials formed within Ceres itself, and have been preserved in a subsurface reservoir that is shielded from solar radiation.



"The significance of this discovery lies in the fact that, if these are endogenous materials, it would confirm the existence of internal energy sources that could support biological processes," explains Juan Luis Rizos, lead author and researcher at <a href="https://www.iaa.es" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IAA-CSIC</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-ceres-the-basics">Understanding Ceres -- the basics</h2>



With a diameter of over 930 kilometers, Ceres is a fascinating dwarf planet nestled in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, and is the most water-rich body in the inner <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biggest-known-space-cloud-of-life-building-complex-chemicals-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> after Earth.



Discovered way back in 1801 by Giuseppe Piazzi, Ceres was the first asteroid to be identified and later reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006. 



It’s the largest object in the asteroid belt, making up about a third of its total mass. Ceres has a rocky core surrounded by a mantle of water ice, which hints that it might have a subsurface ocean. 



This possibility has scientists buzzing because it raises questions about whether Ceres could support some form of life or at least have the right ingredients for it.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_dwarf-planet_water-rich_organic-matter_possible-life_1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_dwarf-planet_water-rich_organic-matter_possible-life_1s.webp" alt="Ceres, considered a dwarf planet, lies in the asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1953528"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ceres, considered a dwarf planet, lies in the asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



As a dwarf planet, it bridges the gap between smaller asteroids and fully-fledged planets, showcasing characteristics of both. 



Its abundance of water ice and potential liquid water beneath the surface place it among the solar system’s ocean worlds and make it a tantalizing target for astrobiological research.



Additionally, Ceres’ composition links it to carbonaceous chondrites, a type of meteorite that is rich in carbon compounds. 



Such meteorites are considered relics of the material that formed the solar system 4.6 billion years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ceres-surface-and-organic-materials">Ceres’ surface and organic materials</h2>



The study employed a unique approach to analyze Ceres’ surface and organic material distribution. Using Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA), the researchers characterized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/land-degradation-severely-threatens-planetary-boundaries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> near the Ernutet crater.



They then used high-resolution spatial images from Dawn’s Framing Camera 2 (FC2) to systematically scan the entire surface. 



This dual approach enabled the identification of 11 new regions potentially rich in organic compounds.



Many of these areas are near the equatorial region, where prolonged solar radiation exposure has degraded organic materials. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_water_Ernutet-crater_Dawn-spacecraft_credit-NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ceres_water_Ernutet-crater_Dawn-spacecraft_credit-NASA_1s.webp" alt="This color composite image, made with data from the framing camera aboard NASA's Dawn spacecraft, shows the area around Ernutet crater. The bright red parts appear redder than the rest of Ceres. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/UCLA/MPS/DLR/IDA" class="wp-image-1953032"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This color composite image, made with data from the framing camera aboard NASA's Dawn spacecraft, shows the area around Ernutet crater. The bright red parts appear redder than the rest of Ceres. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/UCLA/MPS/DLR/IDA</figcaption></figure>



Despite this degradation, high-resolution spectral analysis using Dawn’s VIR imaging spectrometer confirmed the presence of organic compounds, particularly in a region between the Urvara and Yalode basins. 



Here, the organic materials appear within geological features formed by impacts, suggesting they originated from deeper subsurface layers.



"These impacts were the most violent Ceres has experienced, so the material must originate from deeper regions than the material ejected from other basins or craters," clarifies Rizos. 



"If the presence of organics is confirmed, their origin leaves little doubt that these compounds are endogenous materials."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-should-we-care-about-this">Why should we care about this?</h2>



These findings align with a related study by Italian collaborators, who demonstrated that organic compounds degrade more rapidly under solar radiation than previously estimated. 



The observed quantities and degradation levels suggest that vast reservoirs of organic material likely exist beneath the surface of Ceres.



"The idea of an organic reservoir in such a remote and seemingly inert location like Ceres raises the possibility that similar conditions could exist on other solar system bodies," Rizos concludes. 



"Without a doubt, Ceres will be revisited by new probes in the near future, and our research will be key in defining the observational strategy for these missions."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-ceres">What's next for Ceres?</h2>



As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of Ceres, its significance in planetary science and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/land-degradation-severely-threatens-planetary-boundaries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space exploration</a> grows. 



The potential presence of internal organic reservoirs not only sheds light on the dwarf planet’s geologic and chemical evolution but also enhances its appeal as a target for future missions. 



With its unique characteristics and abundant resources, Ceres stands as a key destination in humanity’s journey to understand the solar system’s past and secure its future in space exploration.



"Ceres will play a key role in future space exploration. Its water, present as ice and possibly as liquid beneath the surface, makes it an intriguing location for resource exploration," predicts Rizos.



"In the context of space colonization, Ceres could serve as a stopover or resource base for future missions to Mars or beyond."



All these features make Ceres a key player in our understanding of the early solar system and the potential for habitable environments beyond Earth.



The research is published in the journals <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/ad86ba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Planetary Science Journal</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp3664" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



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.



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.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Ocean world Ceres is full of organic matter that may support life

Six years after NASA’s Dawn mission concluded its remarkable exploration...

Gut-brain,Connection,Or,Gut,Brain,Axis.,Concept,Art,Showing,A

Many people have felt a twist in their stomach when emotions run high. It can happen during tense or stressful moments, and when sadness or depression makes a person lose interest in eating. 



This everyday experience points to connections inside the body, between the mind and the gut, that aren't always obvious and are often overlooked.



For years, treatments that affect the brain have been used to lift spirits. Yet new research suggests a different path -- focusing on that "gut feeling."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-treatment-not-brain-treatment">Gut treatment, not brain treatment</h2>



A recent animal study explored the idea of focusing treatments for depression and anxiety to cells inside the gut rather than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/memory-isnt-only-stored-in-our-brains-other-cells-can-remember-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cells</a>.



This shift may help people feel better without the unwelcome side effects that can come with drugs affecting the entire body.



These findings were led by Mark Ansorge, associate professor of clinical neurobiology at Columbia University <a href="https://www.vagelos.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vagelos College</a> of Physicians and Surgeons, and Kara Margolis, Director of the <a href="https://dental.nyu.edu/research/pain-research-center.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Pain Research Center</a> and an associate professor of molecular pathobiology in the <a href="https://dental.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU College of Dentistry</a>. 



They looked closely at how treatments often used for depression and anxiety might work differently when kept mostly in the intestines.



“Antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raise serotonin levels</a> are important first-line treatments and help many patients but can sometimes cause side effects that patients can’t tolerate," Ansorge explains.



"Our study suggests that restricting the drugs to interact only with intestinal cells could avoid these issues."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ssri-treatment-in-the-gut">SSRI treatment in the gut</h2>



The standard approach to dealing with persistent sadness or worry has long involved drugs called SSRIs. They affect serotonin, a chemical known to help messages <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mitochondria-fling-dna-into-our-brain-cells-making-us-age-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">move around in the brain</a>. 



The problem is that these treatments spread everywhere, not just in the head. Changing that could make a big difference.



“But not treating a pregnant person’s depression also comes with risks to their children,” Ansorge says. “An SSRI that selectively raises serotonin in the intestine could be a better alternative.”



For decades, no one gave much thought to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dopamine-and-serotonin-shape-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serotonin outside the brain</a>. Yet there is a lot of it sitting right in the intestines. 



“In fact, 90% of our bodies’ serotonin is in the gut”, says Margolis, who is also an associate professor of pediatrics and cell biology at <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/our-community/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Grossman School of Medicine</a>.



This inside story may explain why some people experience stomach upset along with mood issues. 



If balancing serotonin only in the intestines can influence a person’s feelings, then future treatments might avoid the usual problems linked to current medications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



To explore this, researchers worked with mice. They used genetic engineering, surgery, and drugs to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swallowing-food-triggers-feel-good-hormones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increase serotonin signaling</a> in the gut but not in other parts of the body. 



The question was simple: Would these changes help the mice behave in ways that suggest relief from anxiety or low mood?



“These results suggest that SSRIs produce therapeutic effects by working directly in the gut,” Ansorge says.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-they-learn">What did they learn?</h2>



The results were surprising. The mice acted calmer and less down, yet they did not show the usual side effects often tied to SSRIs that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-cause-high-anxiety-through-changes-in-gut-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affect the entire body</a>. 



“Based on what we know about interactions between the brain and gut, we expected to see some effect. But to see enhanced serotonin signaling in the gut epithelium produce such robust antidepressant and anxiety-relieving effects without noticeable side effects was surprising even to us,” Ansorge enthused.



“There may be an advantage to targeting antidepressants selectively to the gut epithelium,” adds Margolis. “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Systemic treatment</a> may not be necessary for eliciting the drugs’ benefits.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-brain-connection">Gut-brain connection</h2>



This approach did not just help the mood of the mice. It also revealed something new about how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-some-foods-seem-irresistible-the-answer-is-in-your-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body’s internal wiring</a> works. 



Signals going from the gut up to the head seem to matter. The vagus nerve, known for carrying messages between these regions, was key.



Instead of the brain telling the belly what to do, the gut’s signals played a role in shaping mood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-vagus-nerve-the-basics">Understanding the vagus nerve -- the basics</h2>



The vagus nerve is like your body’s superhighway for communication between your brain and various organs. It’s one of the longest nerves in your body, stretching from your brainstem all the way down to your abdomen. 



Think of it as a major player in your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-has-its-own-mini-brain-that-controls-its-beat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autonomic nervous system</a>, which controls things you don’t have to think about, like your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart rate</a>, digestion, and breathing. 



When you take a deep breath, feel your heart beat, or even swallow your food, that’s the vagus nerve doing its job. 



It helps keep everything running smoothly by sending signals back and forth, ensuring your body responds appropriately to different situations.



But the vagus nerve does more than just manage basic functions -- it also plays a role in your mood and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-has-the-power-to-change-the-mood-of-our-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overall sense of well-being</a>. 



Stimulating the vagus nerve, whether through activities like deep breathing, meditation, or even certain medical treatments, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. 



This nerve is involved in the “rest and digest” response, helping to calm your body after you’ve been stressed or active.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-concerns">Pregnancy concerns</h2>



Problems can arise when certain drugs cross the placenta. Past work has linked these exposures with issues in children. 



The researchers studied more than 400 mothers and babies and found that children exposed to these antidepressants were 3 times more likely to develop constipation in their first year of life.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pregnancy-changes-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maternal depression</a> and anxiety can have many unwanted effects on fetal and child development and must thus be treated and monitored adequately to the benefit of both mother and child,” says Ansorge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drugs-guts-brains-and-the-future">Drugs, guts, brains, and the future</h2>



The team is now working to create an SSRI that stays in the gut. If they succeed, it might change how doctors help people dealing with serious sadness and worry.



This approach could matter especially for those expecting a child, since it would mean addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/link-between-sleep-and-mood-explains-the-wrong-side-of-the-bed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood concerns</a> without running the risks that come with the usual treatments.



Keeping these treatments focused on the intestines might give people a better shot at feeling like themselves again. 



For many, this line of thinking stands as a reminder that what happens inside the body often comes down to more than what goes on in the head. 



It suggests a future where relief could come without the troubles that keep so many from getting the help they need.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0016508524057512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gastroenterology</a>.



-----



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.



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.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Drugs targeting gut cells for depression and anxiety work better than those targeting brain cells

Many people have felt a twist in their stomach when...

Soil, often perceived as lifeless dirt, is a dynamic ecosystem teeming with bacteria, many of which naturally carry antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). These tiny genetic codes enable bacteria to resist antibiotics, posing a significant challenge when they spread to harmful bacteria capable of infecting humans.&nbsp;



Human activities like pollution and land-use changes disturb soil ecosystems, facilitating the transfer of these genes from soil bacteria to pathogens, which could exacerbate the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antimicrobial-resistance-could-cause-39-million-deaths-by-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotic resistance</a> crisis.



Jingqiu Liao, an assistant professor in civil and environmental engineering, has led a new study to understand how soil bacteria contribute to the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.&nbsp;



The findings emphasize that once bacteria acquire ARGs, they can rapidly transmit them to other species. This process transforms antibiotic resistance into an escalating public health concern.&nbsp;



By deciphering these mechanisms, scientists hope to develop strategies to control ARG spread, protecting human health and preserving antibiotics' efficacy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-threat-of-antibiotic-resistance-in-soil-nbsp">The threat of antibiotic resistance in soil&nbsp;</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-bacteria-contribute-to-atmospheric-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Soil</a> is a vibrant environment filled with diverse bacterial communities. While some bacteria naturally carry ARGs as a defense mechanism against antibiotics, the situation becomes dangerous when these genes spread to pathogenic bacteria. 



Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium found in soil, exemplifies this threat. When it infiltrates the food chain, it can cause listeriosis, a severe illness with fatality rates of 20–30% in vulnerable populations.&nbsp;



The ability of listeria to spread ARGs and infect humans makes it a critical model for studying the dynamics of antibiotic resistance in soil and its potential to spread to other environments.



According to Liao, soil is a crucial reservoir for ARGs, with environmental factors such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-pollution-is-harming-worms-and-bugs-to-an-unknown-degree/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> and land use amplifying their prevalence. These factors create conditions that promote the survival, spread, and exchange of ARGs among bacteria. 



However, the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms driving ARG dynamics in soil remain poorly understood. To address this gap, her team used listeria as a model organism to unravel the emergence and development of ARGs in soil ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antibiotic-resistance-in-listeria">Antibiotic resistance in listeria</h2>



Liao’s team comprises a multidisciplinary group of researchers, including doctoral student Ying-Xian Goh, the study’s lead author.&nbsp;



Supported by <a href="https://infectiousdisease.fralinlifesci.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech’s Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens</a> Interdisciplinary Team-building Pilot Grant, the team is conducting comprehensive genetic and ecological analyses of ARGs. 



This project builds on earlier research, such as Liao’s previous study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-021-00935-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Microbiology</a>, which analyzed nearly 600 listeria genomes from soil samples across the United States.



The findings identify five primary ARGs prevalent nationwide and shed light on how these genes spread between bacteria.&nbsp;



Transformation, a process where bacteria acquire free-floating DNA containing ARGs from their environment, plays a key role.&nbsp;



Once a bacterium picks up an ARG, it can pass it to others, even across species. This rapid transfer of resistance genes underscores the urgency of the antibiotic resistance problem.&nbsp;



By studying ARG transmission in listeria, the team gained crucial insights into how resistance develops and propagates through ecosystems.



Liao highlighted the relevance of listeria as a model organism. Although clinical cases of listeria with antibiotic resistance remain low, the bacterium naturally resists several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanoplastics-can-alter-the-course-of-antibiotics-within-our-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibiotics</a> and is showing signs of increased resistance. This makes it an ideal candidate for tracking ARG development before it becomes a widespread clinical issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-soil-and-land-use">The impact of soil and land use</h2>



The study also examined how soil properties and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/40-percent-of-earths-land-has-became-permanently-drier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land</a> use shape ARG diversity and distribution. For instance, soils rich in aluminum tend to encourage greater ARG diversity. 



Aluminum stress may prompt bacteria to retain resistance genes. In contrast, magnesium-rich soils seem to reduce ARG diversity, likely by lowering bacterial competition.&nbsp;



Wildlife presence in forested areas contributes to higher ARG prevalence as animals introduce these genes into the environment. Conversely, agricultural activities can alter soil composition and microbial communities, influencing ARG dynamics in bacteria like listeria.



Liao underscored the importance of minimizing activities that disturb soil conditions, such as improper waste disposal that may lead to metal contamination. She advises practicing good sanitation after activities like gardening to avoid potential exposure to ARGs and resistant bacteria in soil.&nbsp;



Understanding how environmental factors affect ARG spread is critical for developing strategies to mitigate antibiotic resistance and protect public health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-combating-antibiotic-resistance">The future of combating antibiotic resistance</h2>



The study highlights the vital role of protecting natural ecosystems to curb ARG spread. Soil health preservation not only benefits the environment but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding future medical care.&nbsp;



Building on these findings, Liao aims to explore new strategies for controlling antibiotic resistance, ensuring that antibiotics remain effective against infections for generations to come.



Liao believes that a deeper understanding of the ecological drivers of ARGs in soil is essential to tackling this urgent global health threat.&nbsp;



“Establishing a fundamental understanding of the ecological drivers of these bacteria in the soil could help us better understand the emergence, evolution, and spread of antibiotic resistance,” she concluded.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-54459-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



-----



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.



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.



-----

Soil plays an overlooked role in antibiotic resistance

Soil, often perceived as lifeless dirt, is a dynamic ecosystem...

<div id="58e3ebce955a315103d39bd1" class="vdb_player vdb_58e3ebce955a315103d39bd158d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49" vdb_params="m.embeded=cms_video_plugin_www.earth.com" data-placeholder="//img.vidible.tv/prod/2018-11/06/5be168ba497fa130a4cf3f4c/5be168dde700520001946107_1280x720_FES_v1.jpg?w=2880&#038;h=1800&#038;q=60">
 <script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=58e3ebce955a315103d39bd1/vid=5be168ba497fa130a4cf3f4c/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js?m.embeded=cms_video_plugin_www.earth.com"></script>
 </div>
  
Today&#8217;s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> explores how dust behaves in the tail of a comet, which could also provide insight into how planets are formed
Satellite images captured by the STEREO spacecraft have allowed experts to study Comet McNaught, which was one of the most visible comets from Earth in the last five decades.
Throughout January 2007, the comet spanned the sky of the Southern Hemisphere, shining so bright that it could even be seen during the day. 
A new image processing technique will help scientists to gain a better understanding of how the dusty tail of McNaught and other comets changes over time. 
&#8212;
By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 
Video Credit: NASA Goddard

Studying the dusty tail of a comet