Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a strong extratropical cyclone, which struck the Pacific Northwest on November 19, 2024.



“The storm knocked over trees and left nearly 600,000 people without power in Washington state on November 20, according to news reports,” noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fearthobservatory.nasa.gov%2Fimages%2F153605%2Fextratropical-cyclone-whips-over-the-pacific-northwest&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “This image shows the storm system at 1:50 p.m. Pacific Time on November 19.” 



According to NASA, mature extratropical cyclones like this often feature comma-shaped cloud patterns that are the product of ‘conveyor belt’ circulation. “Heavy precipitation is often present near the low-pressure head of the comma.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-extratropical-cyclone-nbsp">Impacts of the extratropical cyclone&nbsp;</h2>



The “bomb cyclone” brought <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhow-much-does-climate-change-influence-extreme-weather-events%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe weather</a>, including strong winds exceeding 70 mph, heavy rainfall, and snow in higher elevations. These conditions led to significant disruptions, including downed trees and hazardous travel conditions.



In urban and rural areas, damage to infrastructure and properties was substantial, with emergency responders and utility crews working around the clock to restore services.&nbsp;



Additionally, mountain passes faced dangerous blizzard conditions, with up to 20 inches of snow accumulating in some areas, severely affecting travel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-pace-of-acceleration">Rapid pace of acceleration</h2>



Chris Dolce is a meteorologist at The Weather Channel. He noted that on the evening of November 19, the storm’s central pressure dropped to levels on par with a storm in October 2021, which saw the lowest pressure in about 50 years of records for that region.



“The pace of the storm’s intensification was more than double the criteria for bombogenesis - a popular term that describes a midlatitude cyclone that rapidly intensifies into a ‘bomb cyclone,’” said NASA.



The rapidly dropping atmospheric pressure at the center of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fcoastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storm</a> caused winds to intensify quickly. According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, wind gusts reached up to 77 miles per hour in the mountains southeast of the city.



“The cyclone kicked off a long-duration atmospheric river that forecasters expect will park over Northern California and southern Oregon through November 22. The National Weather Service estimates that these areas could see rainfall totals of 12 to 16 inches over the duration of the storm,” noted NASA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-an-extratropical-cyclone">What is an extratropical cyclone?</h2>



An extratropical cyclone is a large-scale weather system that forms outside the tropics, typically between 30° and 60° latitude, and is associated with areas of low pressure.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-source">Energy source</h3>



These cyclones obtain their energy from the contrast in temperature between air masses, such as cold polar air and warm subtropical air. This contrast creates instability and drives atmospheric circulation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development-of-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Development of extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



Extratropical cyclones usually have well-defined warm and cold fronts. They often develop along the polar front, where cold and warm air masses meet.



A common area for their development is the mid-latitudes, particularly in regions like the North Atlantic and North Pacific.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-conditions">Weather conditions</h3>



Extratropical cyclones can bring a variety of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhuman-activity-is-rapidly-changing-weather-in-north-america%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather conditions</a>, including heavy rain, snow, strong winds, and severe storms. They are responsible for much of the day-to-day weather in mid-latitude regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-vs-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Tropical vs. extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



While <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Ffast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical cyclones</a> derive energy from warm ocean waters and have a warm core, extratropical cyclones gain energy from temperature contrasts and have a cold core.



Tropical cyclones typically lack fronts, whereas extratropical cyclones are defined by them.



These systems are essential in distributing heat and energy across the planet, playing a critical role in the Earth's climate system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caught-off-guard-by-the-weather">Caught off guard by the weather</h2>



The bomb cyclone in the Pacific Northwest highlights the importance of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fnew-era-in-forecasting-ai-will-improve-extreme-weather-warnings%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparedness</a>, as residents were urged to secure loose outdoor items, stock emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel.



The fire department in Bellevue, east of Seattle, posted a Severe Weather Safety alert on Facebook: “It’s severe out there. Trees are coming down all over the city, with multiple falling onto homes. If you are able, head to the lowest floor you can and stay away from windows. Do not go outside if you can avoid it.”



The image was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on NOAA’s JPSS-1 (Joint Polar Satellite System-1).



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Bomb cyclone rapidly intensified in the Pacific Northwest

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located around 35 million light-years away in the little-observed southern constellation Reticulum. The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fuel-for-star-formation">Fuel for star formation </h2>



"The data featured in this portrait make use of two of Webb’s instruments: the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) and Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam)," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Here MIRI captures the glow of interstellar dust grains, which trace out the interstellar medium, the fuel for future star formation. NIRCam shows the light from stars, even young stars hidden behind prodigious amounts of dust. NIRCam also captures emission from ionised nebulae around young stars."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-reveals-galaxies-in-new-light">Webb reveals galaxies in new light</h2>



According to ESA, the data was collected by the <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/phangs/home">PHANGS team</a> as part of a program in which Webb will observe 55 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a> that have also been mapped by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) radio telescope, the Hubble Space Telescope, and more.&nbsp;



"By combining Webb’s unprecedented view of the dust and stars with data from these other facilities, the team aims to obtain a new, highly detailed view of how stars are born, live, and die in galaxies across the Universe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-1559-a-loner-in-space">NGC 1559: A loner in space</h2>



Although NGC 1559 appears to sit close to one of our nearest neighbors in the sky - the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) - this is just a trick of perspective, noted ESA.



While it is part of the Reticulum constellation, NGC 1559 is not part of the Local Group of galaxies but instead resides in a more distant region of space.



"In reality, NGC 1559 is physically nowhere near the LMC in space; in fact it truly is a loner, lacking the company of any nearby galaxies or membership of any galaxy cluster."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1559">Star formation in NGC 1559</h2>



NGC 1559 is notable for its active star formation and strong magnetic fields. It has also been the site of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, making it of particular interest to astronomers studying stellar evolution and the lifecycle of stars.



The structure of NGC 1559 includes well-defined spiral arms that are rich in young, hot stars and regions of ionized gas, indicative of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



The galaxy’s central bar is believed to play a role in driving gas towards the core, fueling both the star formation and the activity around its nucleus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-extragalactic-wonder">An extragalactic wonder</h2>



Despite being relatively small compared to larger galaxies like the Milky Way, NGC 1559 is an important object for understanding how barred spiral galaxies evolve and the processes that trigger supernovae.



The galaxy’s remote location and active nature make it a fascinating subject of study in the field of extragalactic astronomy. The isolation of NGC 1559 allows for a clearer view of its structure without much interference from neighboring galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxies">Barred spiral galaxies</h2>



Barred spiral galaxies are a type of spiral galaxy characterized by a central bar-shaped structure composed of stars. This bar extends out from the core and connects to the galaxy's spiral arms, which swirl outward in a graceful pattern.



Scientists believe that the bar plays a crucial role in the evolution of the galaxy, funneling gas towards the core and potentially triggering star formation or feeding a central black hole. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our own galaxy, is an example of a barred spiral. These galaxies are quite common in the universe, making up about two-thirds of all observed spiral galaxies.



The bar itself is thought to be a temporary feature, developing as the galaxy matures and possibly disappearing over time as the dynamics of the stars change. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reticulum-constellation">The Reticulum constellation</h2>



The Reticulum constellation is a small, faint constellation in the southern sky. Its name means "the reticle" in Latin, which refers to the crosshairs in an eyepiece of a telescope. 



The constellation was named in the 18th century by the French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille to honor the reticle he used in his scientific instruments. It is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, A. Leroy, J. Lee and the PHANGS Team



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Spiral galaxy NGC 1559 is a loner in outer space

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1792, a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Columba, about 43 million light-years away from Earth.&nbsp;



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



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



“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>.



“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.”



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



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.



“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.”



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



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;



“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;



“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.”



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



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



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. 



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



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;



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



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



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;



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



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



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.



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



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;



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



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



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;



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.



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.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA, J. Lee



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NGC 1792: A galactic powerhouse 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan. It is one of the world's longest glaciers outside of the polar regions.&nbsp;



“An astronaut aboard the International Space Station took this photo of glaciers in the high-elevation valleys of the Pamir Mountains of Central Asia. The upper portion of Fedchenko Glacier crosses the center of the scene.”



NASA noted that most of the larger glaciers in the image show a prominent pattern of light- and dark-brown parallel lines.&nbsp;



“The darker ‘streamlines,’ known as medial moraines, give a sense of the direction of flow of the ice down the valleys. These are concentrations of debris that has been eroded by the glacier from the adjacent mountainsides or a rocky outcrop,” said NASA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fedchenko-a-high-altitude-glacier">Fedchenko: A high-altitude glacier</h2>



Fedchenko Glacier stretches for approximately 48 miles and covers an area of around 270 square miles. This massive glacier is a critical source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-reveal-a-sudden-drop-in-global-freshwater-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater</a>, feeding several rivers and influencing the region's hydrology.



Fedchenko Glacier lies at high altitudes, with its origins in the high peaks of the Pamirs, where snow accumulates heavily. Despite being situated in a relatively arid region, the glacier's significant size and volume are maintained by substantial snowfall.&nbsp;



Named after Alexei Pavlovich Fedchenko, a Russian explorer and naturalist, the glacier was first surveyed in 1928 during Soviet-era expeditions. It plays a crucial role in climate studies, as changes in its length and mass provide insights into the effects of global warming in Central Asia.&nbsp;



The glacier is also part of a spectacular and remote landscape, surrounded by towering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-preferred-the-mountains-and-it-changed-our-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> and rugged terrain, making it a key feature of the Pamirs' natural beauty.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-to-glaciers-worldwide">Threats to glaciers worldwide</h2>



Like many glaciers worldwide, Fedchenko faces the threat of retreat due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peru-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a>, raising concerns about water availability and ecosystem changes in the region.



Rising global temperatures caused by greenhouse gas emissions are the primary driver of glacier melting. Warmer temperatures not only melt glacier surfaces but also increase the flow of meltwater beneath them, accelerating their disintegration.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-activities-and-pollution-nbsp">Human activities and pollution&nbsp;</h3>



Deforestation and urbanization exacerbate these effects by reducing reflective snow cover and increasing heat absorption in nearby areas.&nbsp;



Airborne pollutants like soot and black carbon darken glacier surfaces, reducing their ability to reflect sunlight and speeding up the rate of melting. 



Industrial activities and tourism in glacier regions add physical stress and pollution, further degrading these fragile ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-supplies">Water supplies</h3>



The loss of glaciers has far-reaching consequences. It disrupts freshwater supplies for millions of people who depend on glacial runoff for drinking water, agriculture, and hydropower.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-sea-levels">Rising sea levels</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melting glaciers</a> contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide. Additionally, the loss of glaciers impacts biodiversity, as many species rely on cold, glacial habitats for survival.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-glaciers">Protecting glaciers</h3>



Efforts to mitigate these threats focus on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-are-hidden-sources-of-greenhouse-gases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas</a> emissions, protecting glacier regions from industrial exploitation, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.&nbsp;



However, without urgent action, the continued decline of glaciers will have profound implications for the planet's climate, water systems, and ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-pamir-mountains-nbsp">The Pamir Mountains&nbsp;</h2>



The Pamir Mountains, often called the "Roof of the World," are a vast and rugged mountain range located in Central Asia.&nbsp;



They span across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, China, and Kyrgyzstan, forming a vital part of the junction where the Himalayas, the Tian Shan, the Karakoram, the Kunlun, and the Hindu Kush converge.&nbsp;



With peaks soaring over 7,000 meters, including Ismoil Somoni Peak, the range is home to some of the highest altitudes on Earth.



The Pamir Mountains have been central to trade and cultural exchange for centuries, serving as a critical segment of the ancient Silk Road.&nbsp;



Today, the mountains are a popular destination for trekkers and explorers drawn by their breathtaking beauty and challenging terrain.



The Pamirs are not only a natural wonder but also a biological treasure trove, supporting unique wildlife that is adapted to extreme altitudes.&nbsp;



Culturally, the mountains are home to diverse communities, each with its unique traditions and ways of life, shaped by the harsh but majestic environment.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Fedchenko Glacier in the Pamir Mountains

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the spiral galaxy IC 5332, which is located over 29 million light-years away from Earth.



The galaxy spans approximately 66,000 light-years in diameter. This makes it notably smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is just over 100,000 light-years in diameter. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-look-at-ic-5332">Unprecedented look at IC 5332</h2>



In a stunning photo release by NASA and ESA in 2022, the spiral galaxy IC 5332 was presented in an unprecedented level of detail. The images were captured by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-incredible-new-image-of-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>.



This feat was made possible through the use of the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captures images in the mid-infrared spectrum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-perspective-from-earth">Unique perspective from Earth</h2>



One of the most striking features of IC 5332, as revealed by these observations, is its almost perfect face-on orientation relative to Earth.&nbsp;



This unique perspective allows astronomers to clearly observe and admire the symmetrical arrangement of its spiral arms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-unveils-ic-5332-in-new-light">Webb unveils IC 5332 in new light</h2>



The clarity of these images represents a significant advancement over previous observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope, which imaged IC 5332 in ultraviolet and visible light.&nbsp;



While Hubble’s images revealed the galaxy’s symmetrical spiral arms, James Webb’s MIRI has unveiled these structures as a complex web of gas that emits infrared light at various temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-miri-instrument-on-james-webb-nbsp">The MIRI instrument on James Webb&nbsp;</h2>



Capturing this range of infrared light is no simple task. It requires highly specialized instruments that must be maintained at extremely cold temperatures.&nbsp;



The MIRI instrument on the James Webb Space Telescope is specifically designed for this purpose and performs exceptionally well. Its capabilities allow astronomers to see aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> that are otherwise hidden in other wavelengths.



The detailed images provided by MIRI offer more than just a visual spectacle; they provide valuable data about the composition and temperature of the gases that make up the spiral arms of IC 5332. 



This can help scientists understand the processes of star formation within the galaxy and how these processes compare to those in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-finds-hidden-features-of-the-universe-nbsp">Webb finds hidden features of the universe&nbsp;</h2>



The images of IC 5332 served as a critical test of the James Webb Space Telescope’s capabilities in observing the universe in infrared light. 



As astronomers continue to explore with Webb’s full suite of instruments, many more hidden features of the universe will be revealed.



The information provided by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-second-most-distant-galaxy-in-pandoras-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> not only expands our understanding of the cosmos but also enhances our appreciation for the complex and beautiful structures that exist in our universe.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies-like-ic-5332">Spiral galaxies like IC 5332</h2>



Spiral galaxies are some of the most visually striking objects in the universe, characterized by their rotating arms that extend from a central nucleus, giving them a distinct spiral appearance.&nbsp;



These galaxies are primarily made up of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, and a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. These are often surrounded by a much fainter halo of stars, many of which reside in globular clusters.



Spiral galaxies differ from other galaxy types, such as elliptical and irregular galaxies, in their structure and content. 



The spiral arms are sites of ongoing star formation and are brighter than the rest of the disk because of the young, hot stars that are typically found there. The arms appear distinct because of their density waves, which compress the gas and dust, leading to star formation.



The rotation of the spiral arms also contributes to the galaxy's flat shape due to the centrifugal forces acting on the disk. The central bulge can vary in size and often contains older, red stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxies-nbsp">Barred spiral galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



Some spiral galaxies have a bar-shaped structure that extends from the central bulge, making them barred spirals. This bar affects the motion of stars and gas within the galaxy and can influence star formation activity.



Spiral galaxies are an important focus of study because they contain a significant amount of visible matter and play a crucial role in understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies.&nbsp;



Their distinct features also make them particularly useful for studying the laws of physics under extreme conditions, such as high densities and velocities.



Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, J. Lee and the PHANGS-JWST and PHANGS-HST Teams



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Spiral galaxy IC 5332: A complex web of gas and light

For decades, scientists have demonstrated that chimpanzees, like humans, pass complex cultural practices, such as tool use, from one generation to the next.&nbsp;



However, while human culture has evolved dramatically - from the Stone Age to the Space Age - chimpanzee cultures appear relatively unchanged.&nbsp;



This gap has long been attributed to humans’ unique ability to refine and build on cultural knowledge over time. Recent research suggests, however, that this distinction may not be as clear-cut as previously thought.&nbsp;



A new interdisciplinary study led by the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a> presents evidence that some of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-feel-the-pressure-to-perform-with-an-audience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a>’ most complex behaviors may have been passed down and refined over generations, offering an early example of cumulative culture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-history-of-chimpanzee-culture">The history of chimpanzee culture</h2>



Chimpanzees often use tools made of perishable materials like sticks and stems, which leave little evidence for tracing their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural evolution</a>. 



“As most chimpanzee tools, such as sticks and stems, are perishable, there are few records of their history to confirm this hypothesis - unlike human cases such as the evolution of the wheel or computer technology,” explained lead author Cassandra Gunasekaram from the University of Zurich.



To overcome this limitation, the research team - comprising anthropologists, primatologists, physicists, and geneticists from universities in Zurich, St. Andrews, Barcelona, Cambridge, Konstanz, and Vienna - used genetic data to uncover historical links between chimpanzee populations.&nbsp;



By combining genetic analysis with field data on foraging behaviors across 35 chimpanzee study sites in Africa, they unearthed clues about how cultural practices were transmitted and evolved over thousands of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-stages-of-cumulative-culture">Early stages of cumulative culture</h2>



The researchers classified chimpanzee foraging behaviors into three categories: those that required no tools, those using simple tools (e.g., leaf sponges to collect water), and the most complex practices that involved toolsets - a series of tools used sequentially to achieve a task.



One such toolset is employed by chimpanzees in the Congo region to extract termites.&nbsp;



“Chimpanzees in the Congo region first use a strong stick to dig a deep tunnel through hard soil to reach an underground termite nest,” Gunasekaram explained.&nbsp;



“Next, they make a 'fishing' probe by pulling a long plant stem through their teeth to form a brush-like tip, pressing it into a point and deftly threading it down the tunnel they’ve made. They then pull it out and nibble off any defending termites that have bitten into it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technologies-transmitted-across-populations">Technologies transmitted across populations</h2>



A key finding of the study was that complex toolsets showed the strongest genetic links across distant populations.&nbsp;



“We made the surprising discovery that it is the most complex chimpanzee technologies - the use of entire ‘toolsets’ - that are most strongly linked across now distant populations,” said corresponding author Andrea Migliano, a professor of evolutionary anthropology at the University of Zurich.&nbsp;



“This is exactly what would be predicted if these more advanced technologies were rarely invented and even less likely to be reinvented, and therefore more likely to have been transmitted between groups.”



This finding supports the idea that complex behaviors were not independently developed in different regions but were instead passed down and spread through interconnected chimpanzee communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-female-migrations-and-cultural-transmission">Female migrations and cultural transmission</h2>



In chimpanzee societies, females migrate to new communities upon reaching sexual maturity, helping to prevent inbreeding.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, these migrations not only spread genetic diversity but may also have played a critical role in disseminating cultural innovations.



The study revealed that when both complex toolsets and their simpler components were found at different sites, genetic markers suggested that those sites were historically connected through female migrations.&nbsp;



This pattern implies that more sophisticated toolsets were likely built incrementally by modifying simpler practices.&nbsp;



“These groundbreaking discoveries provide a new way to demonstrate that chimpanzees have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cumulative culture</a>, albeit at an early stage of development,” Migliano said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-perspective-on-chimpanzee-culture">A new perspective on chimpanzee culture</h2>



The study provides compelling evidence that chimpanzees possess a rudimentary form of cumulative culture.&nbsp;



Although far less advanced than human cultural evolution, these findings challenge the assumption that cumulative culture is exclusive to humans.&nbsp;



By tracing the genetic and cultural links between chimpanzee populations, the research highlights how generations of chimpanzees have passed down and refined behaviors, particularly their most complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-age-humans-used-tools-to-make-timber-for-woodworking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tool-use</a> practices.



This new understanding opens doors to further exploration of how cultural transmission occurs in other non-human species, potentially reshaping how we view the evolutionary origins of human culture.



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Chimpanzee cultures are more complex than we realized

For decades, scientists have demonstrated that chimpanzees, like humans, pass...

The saber-toothed tiger, an iconic predator from the Ice Age, continues to captivate scientists and enthusiasts alike with its mysterious legacy. 



Now, scientists have discovered a mummified baby saber-toothed tiger, a cub, in Siberia.



The discovery, which boasts an extraordinary level of preservation, offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the anatomy and lifestyle of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saber-toothed-predator-was-king-prior-to-the-great-dying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-extinct predator</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-saber-toothed-tigers">What are saber-toothed tigers?</h2>



Saber-toothed tigers, also called saber-toothed cats, were some of the most impressive predators to roam the Earth during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">last Ice Age</a>, even though they are not related to today's tigers.



They sported incredibly long, curved canine teeth that could reach up to seven inches, perfect for delivering powerful, precise bites to their prey. 



These big cats had strong, muscular bodies and relatively short legs, making them agile hunters capable of taking down large animals like mammoths and bison. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-kitten_frozen_fur_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-kitten_frozen_fur_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1s.webp" alt="Shown here at left is the frozen Homotherium latidens specimen, the first known mummy of a saber-toothed cat. On the right is a CT-scan of its skeleton. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin" class="wp-image-1951073"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shown here at left is the frozen Homotherium latidens specimen, the first known mummy of a saber-toothed cat. On the right is a CT-scan of its skeleton. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin</figcaption></figure>



Their unique features and hunting strategies made them top predators in their ecosystems. Despite their fearsome reputation, saber-toothed tigers went extinct around 10,000 years ago. 



Researchers believe a combination of climate change, habitat loss, and the decline of their primary prey contributed to their disappearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mummified-saber-toothed-tiger-cub">Mummified saber-toothed tiger cub</h2>



The Siberian Ice Age cub is the first recorded mummified saber-toothed tiger -- a discovery that is setting off waves of excitement among paleontologists worldwide.



It allows us a sneak-peek into the past, and a fascinating and rare opportunity to see exactly what an ancient predator looked like.



The mummy offers precious insights into the cat's muscle structure and how it might have impacted its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smilodon-fatalis-young-saber-toothed-cats-had-double-fangs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting methods</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-kitten_frozen_fur_profile_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-kitten_frozen_fur_profile_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1s.webp" alt="Images highlight the differences in external appearance of the heads of two 3-week-old cub specimens — the mummified Homotherium latidens (saber-toothed cat) at the top and Panthera leo (modern lion) below. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin" class="wp-image-1951075"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Images highlight the differences in external appearance of the heads of two 3-week-old cub specimens — the mummified Homotherium latidens (saber-toothed cat) at the top and Panthera leo (modern lion) below. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin</figcaption></figure>



The mummy's face, forelimbs, torso, and part of its body were remarkably intact and generously covered with thick, soft fur that was between 0.8 and 1.2 inches (20 to 30 millimeters) in length.



Alexey V. Lopatin is a full member of the <a href="https://new.ras.ru/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russian Academy of Sciences</a> in Moscow, director of the academy’s Borissiak Paleontological Institute, and the lead author of the study.



"It’s a fantastic feeling to see with your own eyes the life appearance of a long-extinct animal. Especially when it comes to such an interesting predator as the sabre-toothed cat," said Lopatin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-this-matter">Why does this matter?</h2>



The mummy is the first Asian record of the saber-toothed tiger species Homotherium latidens.



Other Ice Age mummies, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-hunted-woolly-rhinoceros-to-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">woolly rhinos</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-mammoths-survived-longer-than-initially-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammoths</a>, have been found fairly commonly in the Siberian region. However, mummified cats are an extraordinary rarity.



"Before this discovery, there were just two known cat mummies, both cubs of the cave lion Panthera spelaea from Yakutia’s Uyandina River basin. Now, we have added the Homotherium cub to this list", explained Lopatin.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-cub-skull_lion-skull_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-cub-skull_lion-skull_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1s.webp" alt="The new mummy findings reveal that saber-toothed cubs differed dramatically from modern lion cubs of a similar age. The image above highlights differences in the skulls of the mummifed Homotherium latidens (A, B) and Panthera leo (C, D) at 3 weeks old. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin" class="wp-image-1951071"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The new mummy findings reveal that saber-toothed cubs differed dramatically from modern lion cubs of a similar age. The image above highlights differences in the skulls of the mummifed Homotherium latidens (A, B) and Panthera leo (C, D) at 3 weeks old. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin</figcaption></figure>



The next steps in learning about this extinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-new-species-of-sabertooth-cat-discovered-in-south-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> involved the analysis of extracted DNA, and detailed examination of the cub's skeleton, muscles, and hair.



Paleontologist Jack Tseng, an associate professor in the Integrative Biology Department at the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, who was not involved in the discovery, expressed his astonishment at the find.



"It’s rare to find bones of this lineage in the first place, let alone soft tissue associated with it," said Tseng.



Speaking to CNN, Tseng shared that he was at a loss for words when considering "the treasure trove of information that could come out of this singular discovery."



"I don’t know if other paleontologists’ minds are as blown as mine, but it’s like reality changes now that we’ve seen this."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-from-the-past">Clues from the past</h2>



Preserved in permafrost, the cub was discovered near the Badyarikha River in northeast Yakutia by local diggers in 2020. 



Radiocarbon dating estimates the cub to be at least 35,000 years old, making its lifetime coincide with the latter part of the Pleistocene epoch (roughly 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago).



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-cub-paw_lion-paw_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/sabertooth-cub-paw_lion-paw_credit-Prof-Alexey-V-Lopatin_1s.webp" alt="Pictured here are the forepaws of 3-week-old large cubs. A, B and C reveal views of the mummified Homotherium latidens specimen: A is a thumb claw; B a second digit claw; and С a plantar view. D shows the plantar view of the right forepaw of a Panthera leo specimen. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin" class="wp-image-1951069"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pictured here are the forepaws of 3-week-old large cubs. A, B and C reveal views of the mummified Homotherium latidens specimen: A is a thumb claw; B a second digit claw; and С a plantar view. D shows the plantar view of the right forepaw of a Panthera leo specimen. courtesy Prof. Alexey V. Lopatin</figcaption></figure>



The preservation of the cub's forelimbs was exceptional, with claws and the fleshy pads or "beans" (as modern cat admirers like to call them) still intact. 



The cubs of this ancient and long-extinct species varied significantly from modern lion cubs. 



The saber-toothed cub seemed to have longer forelimbs, a bigger mouth opening, a more solid neck, darker coat, and smaller ears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saber-toothed-tiger-fascination">Saber-toothed tiger fascination</h2>



The cub's forearms and paw resembled a bear's, which are known for their strength in collecting food.



This similarity suggests that adult Homotherium may have depended on their forearms, possibly using them to stabilize their prey.



Until now, 3D digital modeling of scanned <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ugly-fossil-unveils-secrets-of-extinct-cats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> was used to hypothesize saber-toothed cat anatomy. However, nothing compares to witnessing these limbs "in the flesh." 



This find is not just about the Homotherium mummy; it offers a unique insight into the entire evolutionary history of the feline group.



This saber-toothed tiger cub mummy is an invaluable find, adding another vivid glimpse into our planet's fascinating history.



The research paper is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-79546-1#citeas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Mummified baby saber-toothed tiger found with fur and toes intact

The saber-toothed tiger, an iconic predator from the Ice Age,...

An international team of scientists has successfully sequenced the genome of the legendary composer, Ludwig van Beethoven, for the first time ever. 



The scientists examined Beethoven's genes to understand his health and genetic makeup.



The researchers used five <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetically matching</a> locks of hair from the legendary composer for their analysis.



The findings reveal some interesting facts about Beethoven and open a whole new set of questions about his life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sounds-of-illness-beethoven-s-health">Sounds of illness: Beethoven's health</h2>



Beethoven's health has been the subject of debate ever since he asked his doctor to publicly document his illness way back in 1802.



This new research, however, brings a fresh perspective, revealing previously unknown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/selfish-dna-transposons-control-early-human-development-not-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic risk</a> factors for the liver disease that likely contributed to Beethoven's death.



Ever wondered why Beethoven had progressive hearing loss, which made him almost deaf by 1818? Or why he had chronic gastrointestinal complaints and a severe liver disease that ultimately led to his death in 1827?



So have many others, and the experts set out to find answers to these questions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ailments-with-mysterious-causes">Ailments with mysterious causes</h2>



Interestingly, the research team could not pinpoint a definite cause for Beethoven's hearing loss or gastrointestinal problems. 



However, they discovered several genetic risk factors for liver disease and found evidence that Beethoven was infected with the hepatitis B virus. Coupled with his alcohol consumption, this condition may have resulted in severe liver disease.



According to Tristan Begg, the study's lead author from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>, Beethoven drank alcohol regularly as documented in his "conversation books."



"If his alcohol consumption was sufficiently heavy over a long enough period, the interaction with his genetic risk factors presents one possible explanation for his cirrhosis," said Begg.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-remain-about-genetic-causes">Questions remain about genetic causes</h2>



Furthermore, the researchers did not find a straightforward genetic cause for Beethoven's hearing loss. 



"Although a clear genetic underpinning for Beethoven’s hearing loss could not be identified, the scientists caution that such a scenario cannot be strictly ruled out," explained Dr. Axel Schmidt from the Institute of Human Genetics at the <a href="https://www.ukbonn.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Hospital of Bonn</a>.



In regards to Beethoven's gastrointestinal complaints, no genetic explanation was pinpointed. The researchers argue that diseases like coeliac disease and lactose intolerance are unlikely causes, based on the genomic data.



Beethoven was also found to have some degree of genetic protection against the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a commonly suspected cause, making this less likely.



"We cannot say definitely what killed Beethoven, but we can now at least confirm the presence of significant heritable risk, and an infection with hepatitis B virus," said Johannes Krause, from the Max Planck Institute of Evolutionary Anthropology. 



"We can also eliminate several other less plausible genetic causes."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-for-authenticity">Testing for authenticity</h2>



To ensure authenticity, the team conducted tests on eight hair samples acquired from public and private collections across the UK, Europe, and the United States.



In the process, they discovered that at least two of the locks did not originate from Beethoven, including a famous lock once believed to have been cut from the recently deceased composer's head by the 15-year-old musician Ferdinand Hiller.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-beethoven-s-living-relatives">Analysis of Beethoven's living relatives</h2>



A particularly interesting aspect of this study involves the genetics of Beethoven’s living relatives. 



Some of the relatives were found to share a paternal ancestor with Beethoven in the late 1500s and early 1600s based on genealogical studies, but they did not match the Y-Chromosome found in the authentic hair samples.&nbsp;



The team concluded that this was due to the occurrence of at least one “extra-pair paternity event” - a child conceived from an extramarital relationship - in Beethoven’s direct paternal line.



“Through the combination of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-secret-code-called-spatial-grammar-may-rewrite-genetics-textbooks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> data and archival documents, we were able to observe a discrepancy between Ludwig van Beethoven’s legal and biological genealogy,” said genealogist Maarten Larmuseau from the KU Leuven.



The team hopes that by making Beethoven’s genome publicly available, further research will be encouraged, and remaining questions about his health and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-evidence-reveals-new-clues-about-pompeiis-eruption-victims/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genealogy</a> could be answered.



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The research team included experts from the University of Cambridge, the Beethoven Center San Jose, American Beethoven Society, KU Leuven, FamilyTreeDNA, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Beethoven-Haus Bonn, and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(23)00181-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Beethoven’s DNA recently found in his hair reveals surprising new details

An international team of scientists has successfully sequenced the genome...

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 The island of Crete in the Mediterranean Sea The island of Crete in the Mediterranean Sea Today&#8217;s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features a Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite view of Crete, Greece&#8217;s most populated island.
With an area of about 3,300 square miles, Crete is one of the largest islands in the Med Sea. Several smaller islands can be seen nearby, including Gavdos, Chrisi and Dia.
Crete is known for its rugged landscape that is dominated by mountains. Mount Ida, which is visible in the center of the island, is Crete’s highest mountain. The Mediterranean Sea as shown above in the video shows how its the largest island and the beautiful outlay. The island has an elongated shape: it spans 260 km (160 mi) from east to west, is 60 km (37 mi) at its widest point, and narrows to as little as 12 km (7.5 mi). Crete covers an area of 8,336 km2 (3,219 sq mi), with a coastline of 1,046 km (650 mi); to the north
Greece only has two native mammal species and they can both be found on Crete &#8211; the Cretan Shrew and the Cretan Spiny Mouse.
Video Credit: ESA 
&#8211;&#8212;
By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer