<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the galaxy I Zwicky 18, which was captured in remarkable detail by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>I Zwicky 18 is a blue compact dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> located approximately 59 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-i-zwicky-18">Star formation in I Zwicky 18</h2>



<p>The galaxy is notable for its relatively young appearance and the fact that it contains very few heavy elements. These characteristics indicate that it has experienced little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> compared to other galaxies of similar age.</p>



<p>“The galaxy was first identified by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky in the 1930’s and resides roughly 59 million light-years from Earth,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. “This galaxy has gone through several sudden bursts of star formation.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to ESA, I Zwicky 18 is typical of the kinds of galaxies that inhabited the early universe and is much smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-star-j1249-36-spotted-trying-to-escape-our-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-telescope-image-of-the-galaxy">Webb telescope image of the galaxy</h2>



<p>“Two major starburst regions are embedded in the heart of the galaxy. The wispy brown filaments surrounding the central starburst region are bubbles of gas that have been heated by stellar winds and intense ultraviolet radiation unleashed by hot, young stars,” noted ESA.</p>



<p>“A companion galaxy resides nearby to the dwarf galaxy, which can be seen at the bottom of the wider-field image. The companion may be interacting with the dwarf galaxy and may have triggered that galaxy's recent star formation.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>ESA explained that the “orange blobs” surrounding the galaxy are the dim glow from ancient fully formed galaxies at much larger distances.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-i-zwicky-18">Key characteristics of I Zwicky 18</h2>



<p>As previously mentioned, the galaxy has a very low abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, suggesting that it has not undergone significant stellar processing.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-stellar-population-nbsp">Young stellar population&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Despite its old age, I Zwicky 18 contains many young, hot stars. This suggests that it might have experienced a burst of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> relatively recently in its history.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-medium-nbsp">Interstellar medium&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The galaxy has a high density of gas, which is a prime ingredient for star formation. This gas is mostly in the form of hydrogen.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-characteristics">Unusual characteristics</h3>



<p>Its characteristics are more typical of primordial galaxies found in the early universe, making it a valuable object of study for understanding galaxy formation and evolution.</p>



<p>Ultimately, I Zwicky 18 provides insights into the conditions and processes that might have been prevalent in the early universe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycles-of-stars-and-dust">Life cycles of stars and dust</h3>



<p>The image was captured as part of a Webb program to study the life cycle of dust in I Zw 18.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Scientists are now building off of previous research with Hubble obtained at optical wavelengths, studying individual dusty stars in detail with Webb’s equivalent spatial resolution and sensitivity at infrared wavelengths.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>ESA noted that this galaxy is of particular interest as its content of elements heavier than helium is one of the lowest of all known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-galaxy-formation-occurred-much-faster-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in the local universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Such conditions are thought to be similar to those in some of the first star-forming galaxies at high redshift, so the Webb study of I Zw 18 should shed light on the life-cycle of stars and dust in the early universe.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-ursa-major">The constellation Ursa Major </h2>



<p>Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, is one of the most prominent and easily recognizable constellations in the northern sky. </p>



<p>Its name, "Ursa Major," means "Great Bear" in Latin, and it has been a significant part of various mythologies and star lore across cultures for thousands of years. </p>



<p>One of the most famous asterisms within Ursa Major is the Big Dipper, a group of seven bright stars that form a shape resembling a ladle or dipper. The Big Dipper is often used as a navigation tool because it points to Polaris, the North Star, located in the nearby constellation Ursa Minor.</p>



<p>Ursa Major is best viewed in the northern hemisphere and is circumpolar, meaning it is visible year-round for much of the Northern Hemisphere. Its position changes with the seasons, rotating around Polaris, the North Star.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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Dwarf galaxy provides a window into the early universe

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

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of retreating glaciers in Alaska, where meltwater is rapidly expanding glacial lakes. The image was captured on August 4, 2024 by the Landsat 8 satellite.</p>



<p>“In parts of Alaska, water is replacing ice. As glaciers thin and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-images-reveal-hidden-retreat-of-arctic-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retreat</a>, meltwater collects at their fronts, forming proglacial lakes. According to an analysis by Mauri Pelto, a glaciologist at Nichols College, three such lakes in the southeastern part of the state have grown rapidly in recent decades,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retreating-glaciers-in-alaska">Retreating glaciers in Alaska</h2>



<p>“A trio of glaciers - Yakutat, Alsek, and Grand Plateau - descend from inland mountains and flow onto the coastal plain southeast of Yakutat borough, ending at Harlequin Lake, Alsek Lake, and Grand Plateau Lake,” noted NASA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The retreat of the glaciers, as well as the growth of the lakes, are visible in the image. When compared to an <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/153000/153638/fastestlake_tm5_19840705_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a> captured by Landsat 5 in the summer of 1984, the changes are even more evident.</p>



<p>NASA elaborated on the extent of the glacier retreat from 1984 to 2024. “During this period, Yakutat Glacier’s main arm retreated 4.3 miles, while Alsek Glacier’s northern and southern arms retreated 3.3 miles and 3.4 miles, respectively. Grand Plateau Glacier’s northern arm lost the most, retreating 4.8 miles.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes-doubled-in-size-nbsp">Glacial lakes doubled in size&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Collectively, the three lakes more than doubled in size over 40 years. In 1984, they covered about 50 square miles. By 2024, they spanned 90 square miles. That’s an area larger than Seneca Lake (67 square miles) - one of the Finger Lakes in New York, which also have a glacial origin,” said NASA.</p>



<p>Pelto noted that the lakes forming in this region are immense - starting at the mountains and spreading toward the coast - making this a new lake district that is unique in our nation.</p>



<p>“Millions of other lakes, named and unnamed, dot the state. But this system has grown fast, so much so that Pelto thinks it might represent the fastest lake growth in the United States this century,” said NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-glacier-retreat-nbsp">Understanding glacier retreat&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Glacier retreat is a significant phenomenon driven primarily by global warming the results from rising greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>. </p>



<p>As temperatures rise, glaciers lose more ice during the summer melt than they can regain in winter snowfall, causing them to shrink over time. This process has profound implications for ecosystems, water resources, and global sea levels.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacial-lakes">Glacial lakes</h3>



<p>When glaciers retreat, they often leave behind depressions in the landscape that can fill with meltwater, forming glacial lakes. These lakes are typically bounded by natural dams made of rock, ice, or moraine - accumulations of debris left behind by the glacier's movement.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over the past century, the number and size of glacial lakes worldwide have increased significantly due to the accelerating pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-glaciers-offer-a-glimpse-of-our-harsh-climate-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> retreat. This trend is especially evident in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Alps, as well as in polar areas such as Alaska and Greenland.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-and-negative-impacts-nbsp">Positive and negative impacts&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Glacial lakes can have both positive and negative impacts. They provide critical water sources for downstream communities, support biodiversity, and sometimes offer opportunities for hydropower development or tourism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, they also pose serious risks. The dams holding back these lakes can fail suddenly, causing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). These catastrophic events can devastate downstream areas, destroying infrastructure, agricultural lands, and habitats while endangering human lives.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-changes">Monitoring changes</h3>



<p>Understanding glacier retreat and glacial lake formation requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining climate science, hydrology, and geology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Monitoring these changes is essential to mitigate associated risks and adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fperu-has-lost-over-half-of-its-glaciers-in-six-decades%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming planet</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-retreat-worldwide">Glacier retreat worldwide</h2>



<p>Studies and satellite observations show that most glaciers in almost all regions of the world are shrinking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Melting glaciers contribute significantly to global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>, which threatens coastal communities and ecosystems.</p>



<p>The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change. Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



<p>"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."</p>



<p>According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



<p>NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <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 galaxy</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies. This group includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



<p>Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.</p>



<p>“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.</p>



<p>"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-star-formation">More about star formation </h2>



<p>Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.</p>



<p>The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



<p>The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. </p>



<p>The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



<p>Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



<p>Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



<p>The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. </p>



<p>Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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Young, massive stars in the Triangulum Galaxy

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Messak Settafet, a rocky plateau located in the central Sahara Desert. It is part of the greater Messak Plateau, which stretches between the Erg Uan Kasa and the Murzuq Sand Sea.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The plateau's surface is characterized by blackened sandstone, sculpted by thousands of years of wind erosion. This dark patina, often referred to as "desert varnish," adds to its distinctive appearance. The region is starkly beautiful but harsh, with extreme temperatures and minimal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-messak-settafet">Image of the Messak Settafet</h2>



<p>“Towering over the desert in southwestern Libya, the Messak Settafet plateau resembles the wall of a giant fortress, with its dark, erosion-resistant sandstone separating the Ubari Sand Sea to the north and the Marzūq Sand Sea to the south,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>“The large outcrop of Cretaceous rock features a sharp escarpment on its north side. The cliff, some 300 meters (1,000 feet) high in places, is lined with a thin dark shadow.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Dark debris from rockfalls is visible to the north. Note that an optical illusion called relief inversion can make high-elevation areas appear low and vice versa when shadows appear on the northern side of a feature.”</p>



<p>Archaeological significance of the plateau&nbsp;</p>



<p>Messak Settafet is often referred to as the "land of stone tools" because it is one of the world's largest sites for prehistoric tools.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The area is littered with countless <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fstone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tools</a> and artifacts dating back to various prehistoric periods, including the Acheulean and Neolithic. These tools offer insights into early human technology and adaptation to desert environments.</p>



<p>“Signs of ancient tool making cover much of the plateau’s surface,” said <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “According to one archaeological survey, people discarded so many stone tools and rock fragments on the plateau over hundreds of thousands of years that roughly 75 artifacts per square meter now carpet the surface.” </p>



<p>“That makes this one of the earliest known examples of hominins modifying an entire landscape, according to the University of Cambridge archaeologists who conducted the survey.”</p>



<p>“Other signs of ancient activity include the bright spots that dot the image. These areas were likely quarrying pits where people dug up rocks and crafted them into tools, the archaeologists reported.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rock-art-on-the-plateau-nbsp">Rock art on the plateau&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The plateau is home to numerous petroglyphs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negev-petroglyphs-ancient-art-rock-carvings-face-erosion-fungi-lichens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carvings</a>. These engravings depict animals, humans, and symbolic designs, providing valuable clues about the lives, beliefs, and environments of the region's ancient inhabitants. </p>



<p>“For instance, Wadi Mathendous, a prehistoric archaeological site located in the southern part of the plateau, contains engravings of rhinoceroses, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, fighting cats, giraffes, long-horned buffaloes, and elephants. The art is thought to be about 8,000 years old,” said NASA.</p>



<p>Some of the animals depicted, such as giraffes and elephants, indicate that the Sahara was once a <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fa-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much wetter</a> and more hospitable environment.</p>



<p>Cultural significance of the Messak Settafet</p>



<p>Messak Settafet forms part of the Rock-Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. This designation highlights the area's importance for understanding early human culture and environmental changes in the Sahara.</p>



<p>The plateau has been a critical area for studying the migration and adaptation of early humans. Its archaeological richness offers a glimpse into how humans thrived in this region during periods when the climate was wetter.</p>



<p>“Although the plateau now receives less than 0.4 inches of rain annually, clues in the landscape make clear it was once much wetter,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>“Deeply incised dried stream valleys, or wadis, crisscross the plateau, indicating significant past water flow. The small, bright features scattered across the plateau are sand and silt deposits left where water once pooled.”</p>



<p>The Messak Settafet, like many remote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-desert-dust-storms-carry-harmful-bacteria-and-fungi-around-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desert</a> regions, faces challenges such as erosion, vandalism of ancient rock art, and the potential impacts of development. Efforts to preserve its archaeological treasures are vital for protecting its cultural and scientific significance.</p>



<p>The image was captured November 17, 2024 by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on Landsat 9 on&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Messak Settafet plateau in the Sahara Desert

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the western part of Grand Bahama, the northernmost island in the Bahamas, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 satellite system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Grand Bahama is known for its beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant tourism industry. The island is the fourth largest in the Bahamas and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-main-cities-of-grand-bahama-nbsp">Main cities of Grand Bahama&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Grand Bahama’s two main cities are both visible in the image: West End on the northwestern tip of the island and Freeport on the southern shore,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“West End is the oldest city on the island, and the capital. The runway of West End airport, the smaller of the two airports serving Grand Bahama, can be spotted west of the city.”</p>



<p>Freeport serves as a hub for tourism, trade, and commerce. It was developed as a free trade zone in the 1950s, which has helped drive its growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography-and-climate">Geography and climate</h2>



<p>Grand Bahama is situated about 55 miles off the coast of Florida, making it one of the closest islands in the Bahamas to the United States.</p>



<p>The island has a tropical climate, with warm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> year-round. It experiences a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.</p>



<p>The rainy season is from May to October, with the wettest months being August and September. Thunderstorms are common during this period, and the island can experience heavy rainfall, especially during hurricane season.</p>



<p>The humidity level is consistently high due to the tropical location, often exceeding 70 percent. It peaks during the rainy season, making it feel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-temperature-threshold-can-the-human-body-handle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotter</a> than the actual temperature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hurricanes-on-grand-bahama">Hurricanes on Grand Bahama</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-propose-adding-a-category-6-to-the-current-hurricane-intensity-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hurricanes</a> have left a lasting impact on the infrastructure, economy, and environment of Grand Bahama.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recovery efforts from such destructive storms often take years, and the island's experience with hurricanes has highlighted the vulnerability of coastal communities in the face of increasingly severe weather events.</p>



<p>Dorian was one of the most devastating hurricanes to hit Grand Bahama. It was a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 miles per hour.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The hurricane caused catastrophic damage, including widespread flooding, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and loss of life. Dorian stalled over the island, leading to prolonged and intense damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tourism-nbsp-on-grand-bahama">Tourism&nbsp;on Grand Bahama</h2>



<p>Grand Bahama is known for its stunning beaches, such as Lucaya Beach, Xanadu Beach, and Taino Beach. The island offers various water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating.</p>



<p>The Lucayan National Park is a popular natural attraction, featuring one of the world's longest underwater cave systems, as well as beautiful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mangroves-and-saltmarshes-are-much-better-at-storing-carbon-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mangroves</a> and wetlands.</p>



<p>Port Lucaya Marketplace is a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, often considered the heart of Grand Bahama’s tourist activity.</p>



<p>Grand Bahama has been working on revitalizing its tourism industry, especially after facing challenges like hurricanes and the Covid-19 pandemic. Efforts include upgrading infrastructure, improving facilities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. </p>



<p>The island offers various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/travelers-are-ready-for-more-affordable-eco-friendly-options/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-tourism</a> activities, including kayaking through mangroves, bird watching, and exploring its unique ecosystems, which attract visitors interested in environmental conservation and sustainable travel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grand-bahama-folklore">Grand Bahama folklore</h2>



<p>On Grand Bahama Island, folklore and supernatural tales have been passed down through generations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-chickcharney">The Chickcharney</h3>



<p>The Chickcharney is a legendary creature believed to inhabit the forests of the Bahamas, including Grand Bahama. Described as a large, bird-like creature with red eyes and three-toed feet, it is said to bring good luck to those who encounter it and treat it with respect.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, those who mock or disrespect it might find themselves cursed with bad luck. The Chickcharney is deeply rooted in Bahamian folklore and is often depicted as a guardian of the forests.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ghost-of-rand-nature-center">The ghost of Rand Nature Center</h3>



<p>The Rand Nature Center in Freeport is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former caretaker. Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained footsteps, cold spots, and the feeling of being watched.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some believe the caretaker's spirit lingers to ensure the park is well-maintained and respected by those who visit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lost-city-of-atlantis">The lost city of Atlantis</h3>



<p>While not unique to Grand Bahama, the legend of Atlantis has a connection to the Bahamas. Some believe that parts of the lost city lie submerged off the coast of the island.&nbsp;</p>



<p>There are tales of divers encountering mysterious underwater structures and strange phenomena, leading to speculation that these ruins could be remnants of the ancient civilization.</p>



<p>These stories are an integral part of the island's cultural heritage, blending history, myth, and the supernatural. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, the tales continue to capture the imagination of both locals and visitors to Grand Bahama.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Copernicus Sentinel data (2023), processed by ESA</p>



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



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Grand Bahama: A blend of beauty and resilience 

<p>A humble voyager from NASA was launched for its longest journey yet on October 14. 2024. The valiant vessel, known as the Europa Clipper, was catapulted from the constraining clutches of Earth's gravity.</p>



<p>Now it's moving at a speed of 22 miles per second (35 kilometers per second), away from the Sun, and towards a new horizon. </p>



<p>Europa Clipper&nbsp;is the largest spacecraft that has ever been developed by NASA for a planetary mission. The voyager has locked its sights on Jupiter’s frosty moon Europa. </p>



<p>As space agencies worldwide keenly watch its progress, the Europa Clipper will cover hundreds of millions of miles in its quest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-epic-journey-into-space">An epic journey into space</h2>



<p>The Europa Clipper will ultimately <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/europa-clipper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">venture</a> an astounding 1.8 billion miles (2.9 billion kilometers) away from home.</p>



<p>The voyager is expected to reach Jupiter in 2030. The following year, it will begin carrying out a series of 49 flybys over Europa.</p>



<p>The main objective of the mission is both simple and captivating. The goal is to accumulate data that will reveal whether this icy moon and its hidden ocean possess the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-mission-set-to-search-for-life-on-jupiters-ocean-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessary conditions</a> to harbor life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-look-inside-the-mission">A look inside the mission</h2>



<p>Currently, the information the mission teams are receiving from the spacecraft is purely data about its operational status.</p>



<p>Dr. Jordan Evans, Europa Clipper's project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, noted that all of the systems are working in an impeccable manner.</p>



<p>“It’s an exciting time on the spacecraft, getting these key deployments done,” said Dr. Evans.</p>



<p>“Most of what the team is focusing on now is understanding the small, interesting things in the data that help them understand the behavior of the spacecraft on a deeper level. That’s really good to see.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyage-to-the-sun-and-mars">Voyage to the Sun and Mars</h2>



<p>As the Clipper moves farther into space, its next pit stop is Mars. Predicted to reach Mars' orbit by March 1, 2025, the spacecraft will harness the planet's gravity to gain speed.</p>



<p>Scientists plan to test Clipper's thermal imager by capturing multi-colored snapshots of Mars during this period. The data gathered using the radar instrument will also ensure the machinery's efficacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-gravity-boost-for-europa-clipper">Earth gravity boost for Europa Clipper</h2>



<p>In an intriguing maneuver, the Clipper will gain another gravity boost in December 2026 - courtesy of our very own planet, Earth.</p>



<p>It will make a fleeting visit before taking off again towards the Jupiter system. During this "visit," the spacecraft's magnetometer will gauge Earth’s magnetic field, which will fine tune the instrument.</p>



<p>Stepping back to view the broader picture, the Europa Clipper has three main scientific goals. The first is to determine the thickness of Europa’s icy shell, and to investigate its interaction with the ocean beneath. </p>



<p>Clipper will also scrutinize the composition of Europa and study its geology. This thorough examination of Europa will equip scientists with crucial insights into the potential for habitable worlds existing beyond our own.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europa-clipper-s-future-exploration">Europa Clipper's future exploration</h2>



<p>The Europa flybys will take place over several years. Each passing will present fresh data about the moon's constituents, geological structure, and potential habitability.</p>



<p>The success of this undertaking could open doors to further exploration, maybe even making it possible to establish a dedicated lander mission to Europa's icy surface.</p>



<p>The insights will broaden our understanding of Jupiter's intriguing moon and contribute to the vast knowledge about life beyond Earth. This mission is indeed a giant leap in our pursuit to unravel the mysteries of our solar system and to discover hospitable worlds beyond our own.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-minds-behind-the-mission">The minds behind the mission</h2>



<p>Several prestigious institutions have come together in executing the Europa Clipper mission.</p>



<p>Guided by the <a href="https://www.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Institute of Technology</a> in Pasadena, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) took the lead in developing the mission. The team also included experts from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland.</p>



<p>The main spacecraft body was a collective effort by APL, <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA</p>



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Europa Clipper is on a 1.8-billion-mile journey to Jupiter's moon

A humble voyager from NASA was launched for its longest...

Water,Fills,The,Tulare,Lakebed,Following,Recent,Floodwaters,,Illustrating,The

<p>For the first time in about 130 years, Tulare Lake reappeared in California's San Joaquin Valley, stirring both wonder and concern among locals and experts alike as it submerged almost 100,000 acres of privately owned farmland.</p>



<p>Vivian Underhill, a researcher formerly at <a href="https://www.northeastern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northeastern University</a>, has been studying this unexpected phenomenon. </p>



<p>"Tulare Lake was the largest body of fresh water west of the Mississippi River. It's really difficult to imagine that now," she says.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tulare-lake-returns">Tulare Lake returns</h2>



<p>Often dubbed the "ghost lake," Tulare Lake vanished about 130 years ago due to extensive human intervention. </p>



<p>But in the spring of 2023, after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consecutive-atmospheric-rivers-cause-far-more-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive winter storms</a> and significant snowmelt from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/record-snowpack-in-the-sierra-nevada-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sierra Nevada</a>, the lake roared back to life. </p>



<p>The water overwhelmed human-made systems designed to drain the basin, submerging thousands of acres of fertile farmland that once produced pistachios, almonds, cotton, and safflower.</p>



<p>The reborn lake stretches out with a seemingly endless blue horizon. Yet, unlike Lake Tahoe's cool breezes and recreational appeal, Tulare Lake offers little respite from the heat. The air is still, and a thin layer of high clouds does little to shield the sun.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-reclaims-the-land">Nature reclaims the land</h2>



<p>Despite the challenges, the lake's return has revitalized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-feeding-pollutes-local-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local ecosystems</a>. Ducks, egrets, and other waterfowl have flocked to its shores. </p>



<p>Frogs now wade at the water's edge, ready to dive in at the slightest disturbance. Tule grass has begun to sprout along the shoreline, signaling a revival of plant life that hasn't been seen here in generations.</p>



<p>Underhill notes the historical significance, saying, "Once, there was so much water that a steamship could carry agricultural supplies from the Bakersfield area up to Fresno and then up to San Francisco." </p>



<p>That's nearly 300 miles of navigable waterways that connected communities and supported commerce.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tulare-lake-hidden-in-plain-site">Tulare Lake hidden in plain site</h2>



<p>To travelers passing through the arid San Joaquin Valley today, the existence of such a vast lake seems almost mythical. </p>



<p>"It's hard to imagine such a large body of water co-existing alongside such an arid landscape," Underhill remarks. Yet, in the 1800s, "Fresno was a lakeside town."</p>



<p>Back then, Tulare Lake was fed primarily by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada. </p>



<p>"There's no natural outlet within the valley," Underhill explains, "so the water collects to form a lake." The indigenous Tachi Yokut tribe called it "Pa'ashi," and it was central to their way of life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-of-tulare-lake">Human impact of Tulare Lake</h2>



<p>The disappearance of Tulare Lake began in the late 1850s and early 1860s. </p>



<p>"The state of California's desire to take public land and put it into private ownership propelled the lake's decline," Underhill explained.</p>



<p>"When we say 'public land,' that is historically indigenous land that the state of California blanket-proclaimed as 'public.'"</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/tulare-lake_june4-2023_june4-2024_comparison_modis_nasa_1m.webp" alt="The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Terra satellite acquired a false-color image of Tulare Lake on June 4, 2024, and a second one of the same region on June 3, 2023. Each image can be viewed by clicking on the respective date. This makes it easy to compare the change in the lake level over time. This type of false-color image helps separate water, which appears blue, from vegetation (bright green) and open land (tan). Deeper water appears darker blue and very shallow water looks pale blue. In contrast, snow (frozen water) looks bright electric blue. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1952049"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Terra satellite acquired a false-color image of Tulare Lake on June 4, 2024, and a second one of the same region on June 3, 2023. Each image can be viewed by clicking on the respective date. This makes it easy to compare the change in the lake level over time. This type of false-color image helps separate water, which appears blue, from vegetation (bright green) and open land (tan). Deeper water appears darker blue and very shallow water looks pale blue. In contrast, snow (frozen water) looks bright electric blue. Credit: NASA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>This process, known as "reclamation," aimed to convert inundated or desert land into arable farmland. </p>



<p>"If people could drain that land," Underhill says, "they would be granted ownership of parts of that land. So there was a big incentive for white settlers to start doing that work." </p>



<p>This led to the construction of hundreds of irrigation canals crisscrossing the valley, diverting water away from the lake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-day-concerns">Modern-day concerns</h2>



<p>Today, the reemergence of Tulare Lake poses new challenges. The floodwaters have engulfed private lands, turning fields into vast stretches of water. </p>



<p>Signs warning against trespassing dot the shoreline, reminding everyone that wading or boating is technically prohibited.</p>



<p>More troubling is what's hidden beneath the surface. The waters have submerged storage sheds containing fertilizers and chemicals, manure piles, electrical wires, and sharp farm machinery. </p>



<p>These hazards not only pose risks to anyone venturing into the lake but also raise environmental concerns about contamination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertain-future-of-tulare-lake">Uncertain future of Tulare Lake</h2>



<p>Local officials now speculate that this latest incarnation could also take years to fully recede.</p>



<p>"California just got inundated with snow in the winter and then rain in the spring," Underhill points out. </p>



<p>Such weather patterns accelerate snowmelt, causing rapid runoff into the basin where Tulare Lake sits.</p>



<p>"All that snow and rain in the Sierra still runs into the depression where Tulare Lake once sat," she adds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reflecting-on-the-past">Reflecting on the past</h2>



<p>The story of Tulare Lake is not just about water returning to a dry basin; it's a narrative intertwined with history, culture, and environmental change. </p>



<p>The lake's disappearance was a result of deliberate actions to reshape the land for agriculture, often at the expense of indigenous communities and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-ecosystems-constantly-share-energy-to-achieve-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural ecosystems</a>.</p>



<p>Underhill emphasizes the colonial undertones of this transformation. "It was a deeply settler colonial project that proceeded in fits and starts," she says. </p>



<p>The push to privatize land and the incentives offered for reclamation led to dramatic alterations of the landscape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter-0">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



<p>As Tulare Lake reclaims its historic footprint, it serves as a reminder of nature's resilience and the lasting impacts of human intervention. </p>



<p>The revival has brought back species that haven't been seen in the area for decades, offering a glimpse into what the region might have looked like before extensive farming took over.</p>



<p>At the same time, the challenges posed by the lake's return highlight the complexities of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship. </p>



<p>The submerged farmlands represent significant economic losses, and the potential environmental hazards lurking beneath the water pose risks that will need to be addressed.</p>



<p>As Underhill aptly puts it, witnessing the lake's return is both surprising and profound. It challenges us to reconsider our relationship with the land and the long-term consequences of our actions.</p>



<p>The full report by Underhill is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://openrivers.lib.umn.edu/article/the-return-of-paashi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Open Rivers</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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



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Ghost lake returns after 130 years and buries 94,000 acres of farmland

For the first time in about 130 years, Tulare Lake...

<p>As urban populations swell and climate change accelerates, the cooling effects of green spaces in cities become increasingly vital. </p>



<p>A recent study has identified a significant gap in green space - and therefore cooling capacity - between cities in the Global South and those in the Global North. </p>



<p>Utilizing NASA satellite data, the research underscores the urgent need for equitable urban planning to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks-of-urban-heat">Health risks of urban heat</h2>



<p>Cities are often hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/urban-heat-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban heat island</a> effect. Dark surfaces like roads, buildings, and sidewalks absorb and retain heat from the sun, raising temperatures in urban environments. </p>



<p>This exacerbated heat poses serious health threats to city dwellers, including dehydration, heat stroke, and increased mortality rates. Greenery provides natural cooling through shade and the release of moisture into the air, helping to reduce these risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-capacity-of-green-spaces-in-cities">Cooling capacity of green spaces in cities</h2>



<p>An international research team led by Yuxiang Li, a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>, analyzed the 500 largest cities globally to compare their cooling capacities. </p>



<p>The experts employed data from the Landsat 8 satellite, managed by <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>, to assess land surface temperatures during the hottest months from 2017 to 2019. </p>



<p>The team used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to quantify the amount of healthy vegetation in each city. NDVI measures the difference between absorbed red light and reflected infrared light to determine vegetation density from satellite images.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disparities-between-global-north-and-south">Disparities between Global North and South</h2>



<p>The study revealed that cities in the Global South have only 70% of the greenery-related cooling capacity found in cities in the Global North.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On average, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-green-spaces-are-urgently-needed-across-the-global-south/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a> in Global South cities lower temperatures by about 4.5°F (2.5°C), whereas those in Global North cities achieve a reduction of 6.5°F (3.6°C). </p>



<p>This disparity intensifies existing problems, as many Global South cities are situated closer to the Equator and are expected to face more frequent and severe heat extremes due to climate change.</p>



<p>“It's already clear that Global South countries will be impacted by heat waves, rising temperatures, and climatic extremes more than their Global North counterparts,” said Chi Xu, a professor of ecology at Nanjing University and co-author of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The capacity to adapt to heat is also lower in the Global South, where air conditioning is less common and power outages are more frequent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-luxury-effect-across-cities">The "luxury effect" across cities</h2>



<p>Cities in the Global South generally have less green space, reflecting a pattern known as the "luxury effect," where wealthier areas possess more greenery than poorer ones.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This trend is observed both within cities and on a global scale. “Wealthier cities also have more urban green spaces than the poorest cities,” Chi noted.</p>



<p>Bridging the gap between cities like Mogadishu, Somalia (the study's lowest-performing city), and Charlotte, North Carolina (the highest-performing city), is challenging.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Factors such as dense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eurasian-otters-threatened-by-urban-development-in-hong-kong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban development</a> and arid climates limit vegetation growth in some regions. However, cities can learn from regional leaders in cooling capacity. </p>



<p>By identifying top-performing cities within their regions, urban planners can set realistic goals to enhance their own green spaces and cooling effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-cities-with-green-spaces-nbsp">Cooling cities with green spaces&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Increasing green space is one strategy among many to improve a city's cooling capacity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“How you utilize green space is really going to vary depending on the climate and the urban environment you're focused on,” said Christian Braneon, a climate scientist at NASA's <a href="https://www.giss.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Institute for Space Studies</a> who was not involved in the study.</p>



<p>Other methods include creating water bodies, installing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cool-roofs-on-city-buildings-secret-to-beating-urban-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green roofs</a>, and using lighter-colored materials for roofs and pavements to reflect more sunlight. </p>



<p>While greener cities in the U.S. and Canada often have lower population densities, this isn't inherently better for the environment, as it can lead to increased car reliance and larger, less efficient homes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-future-urban-development">Implications for future urban development</h2>



<p>The global insights from this study enable urban planners to compare and adopt strategies suitable for cities with similar climates or densities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“For newly urbanized areas that aren't completely built out, there's a lot of room to still change the design,” Braneon emphasized.</p>



<p>By proactively integrating green spaces and other cooling measures into urban planning, especially in rapidly developing regions, cities can significantly enhance their resilience to rising temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Addressing the disparities in urban green spaces is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations in the face of escalating climate challenges.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51355-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Cities in the Global South have far less green space

As urban populations swell and climate change accelerates, the cooling...

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<p><br /><span style="font-weight: 400;">Three hurricanes at the same time Today’s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> comes from </span><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">NASA</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and the </span><a href="http://www.noaa.gov/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">NOAA</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and features a look at three difference hurricanes occurring simultaneously.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hurricane Irma is seen approaching the Bahamas as a Category 4 storm, while Hurricane Jose nears the Leeward Islands. Meanwhile, Hurricane Katia moves through the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.</span></p>
<p>Hurricane Irma is expected to hit southern Florida on Sunday morning, and mandatory evacuations are underway for 1.4 million people in Florida and Georgia. Hurricane Irma strengthened into a highly dangerous Category 5 storm on Tuesday as it barreled toward the Caribbean and the southern United States, threatening deadly winds, storm surges and flooding as Texas and Louisiana was still reeling from devastating Hurricane Harvey.</p>
<p>What to Expect From Hurricane Irma. Irma is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches with isolated maximum amounts of 12 inches across the northern <u>Leeward Islands</u>, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. These rainfall amounts may cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8212;</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span></i><a href="mailto:rarnold@earth.com"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rory Arnold</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></i></a></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video </span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Credit: </span></i><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">NASA</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span></i><a href="http://www.noaa.gov/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">NOAA</span></i></a></p>


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