<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604. The nebula is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). </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 that 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.&nbsp;</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. </p>



<p>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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>This tectonic activity not only shaped the island's current location but also influenced its geological features. Hainan's landscape is characterized by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a>, volcanic formations, and rich mineral deposits, which are direct results of these ancient geological processes.</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Hainan Strait in southern China

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Starburst galaxy in the constellation Columba

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Messier 78 is fascinating not only for its visual beauty but also for its scientific interest, particularly in the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> and interstellar matter.&nbsp;</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>There are two main types of supernovae, classified based on their causes. Type I supernovae occur when a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a> in a binary system accretes material from its companion star, eventually reaching a critical mass and triggering a runaway nuclear reaction.&nbsp;</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Hubble spots a supernova in the constellation Gemini 

<p>Many people have never heard of lutein, yet it has a notable presence in vegetables, fruits, and even egg yolks. This pigmented compound offers multiple health advantages, particularly for vision, though it can play a role in other areas of the body too.</p>



<p>Dr. Karen Robinson from the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences led a detailed analysis on the health benefits of lutein. </p>



<p>“Our review was the first to evaluate the effects of both dietary and supplemental sources of lutein on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-pistachios-daily-proven-to-boost-eyes-vision-and-overall-health/">healthy eyes</a>,” explained Dr. Robinson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lutein-may-safeguard-eye-health">Lutein may safeguard eye health</h2>



<p>Lutein is classified as a <a href="https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/carotenoids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carotenoid</a> with antioxidant properties. It cannot be made by the human body, so it must come from food sources like spinach, kale, and corn.</p>



<p>Experts note that it is found in certain dietary supplements for those who struggle to get enough from meals. Evidence suggests that regular intake might help safeguard eyesight over the long haul.</p>



<p>"Two tissues of the eye that play a key role in the vision process are the macula and the lens. Of all the carotenoids present in the human diet and serum, only two, lutein and zeaxanthin, are present in these two important tissues," researchers noted in the current <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8874683/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-lutein-supports-eye-health">How lutein supports eye health</h2>



<p>Some research indicates that lutein can help people who have difficulty seeing in low light. This guidance aligns with observations of improved night vision once the nutrient becomes a staple in the diet.</p>



<p>Evidence has also <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/6/1721" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shown</a> possible benefits in reducing the likelihood of cataracts by shielding delicate eye tissues from ultraviolet light. It appears to act as a protective layer in the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23185-macula" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">macula</a>, which is key for healthy sight.</p>



<p>“Daily lutein supplements of 10 mg or more increased macular pigment after 3 months,” said Dr. Robinson. Daily amounts of 10 mg or more may support macular pigment in adults who have normal eyes, according to some meta-analyses. </p>



<p>Researchers have also associated lutein intake with a lower risk of glaucoma, which often arises from increased eye pressure. The nutrient’s antioxidant role is potentially very important in lowering the stress that harms the optic nerve.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-and-cognitive-function">Skin and cognitive function</h2>



<p>Lutein’s antioxidant action has been observed in the upper layers of the skin. It may ease harmful changes caused by ultraviolet exposure and preserve the skin’s appearance over time.</p>



<p>There have been intriguing discussions of lutein’s <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6164534/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effect</a> on memory in both younger and older adults. Although research is ongoing, some studies suggest that lutein intake is associated with improved cognitive function. </p>



<p>The idea of a single compound benefiting both vision and brain health has sparked interest among researchers</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommended-intake-and-usage">Recommended intake and usage</h2>



<p>Nutrition specialists generally suggest taking between 10 mg and 20 mg of lutein per day, if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-often-contain-hidden-ingredients/">supplements</a> are used. Most recommend pairing it with a meal that includes some healthy fat, like olive oil or nuts, since fats help the body absorb carotenoids.</p>



<p>Exact doses can vary, based on individual health goals, so a professional opinion is wise before starting a supplement routine. </p>



<p>Some individuals prefer getting lutein from spinach, squash, and other colorful produce, but it can also be found in capsules for convenience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-beyond-eye-health">Benefits beyond eye health</h2>



<p>A growing number of researchers see potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-dietary-changes-are-best-for-cancer-prevention/">cancer-preventive</a> links for lutein. Its antioxidant activity helps manage free radicals in cells, which can otherwise damage DNA over time.</p>



<p>Though it is not a cure-all, it often appears in broader discussions about immune function. Experts believe that a balanced diet featuring lutein gives the body a valuable tool in overall wellness.</p>



<p>Including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/keeping-leafy-green-vegetables-safe-until-ready-to-eat/">leafy greens</a>, corn, and egg yolks in meals can boost lutein intake without too much effort. Many of these options also offer protein, fiber, and other nutrients that support holistic health.</p>



<p>Some people wonder about the best time to take a lutein supplement. Professionals often say it’s ideal alongside the biggest meal of the day, especially when that meal contains unsaturated fats.</p>



<p>Lutein is important for supporting normal vision, but it seems to have extra perks for the skin and perhaps the brain. Anyone eager to include it in a daily routine should think about combining dietary and supplemental sources for the best effect.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8874683/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Advances in Nutrition</em></a>.</p>



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Vitamin helps prevent cataracts and maintain eye health

Many people have never heard of lutein, yet it has...

<p>Self-deception plays a bigger role in our lives than we might realize - especially when it comes to assessing our own achievements and skills.</p>



<p>A recent study exposed the fascinating tendency that humans have to cheat and then inflate their own sense of success, while genuinely believing in their abilities.</p>



<p>In a twist of irony, this self-deception goes even further - it actually makes people feel smarter and more accomplished.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-puzzle-of-self-deception">The puzzle of self-deception</h2>



<p>Dr. Sara Dommer, an assistant professor of marketing at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>, set out to explore why people cheat on tasks that offer purely intrinsic rewards, such as the satisfaction of solving crossword puzzles or counting calories accurately.</p>



<p>“I found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-power-are-more-likely-to-cheat-on-their-partners/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">people do cheat</a> when there are no extrinsic incentives, like money or prizes, but [only] intrinsic rewards, like feeling better about yourself," said Dr. Dommer.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, the feel-good factor only worked when individuals engaged in what Dr. Dommer refers to as "diagnostic self-deception." </p>



<p>In simpler terms, the participants had to convince themselves that they weren't cheating. "Doing so allows me to feel smarter, more accomplished or healthier," explained Dommer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cheating-to-feel-healthy">Cheating to feel healthy</h2>



<p>To understand this phenomenon, Dommer conducted four distinct studies. In the first, undergraduate students from Penn State were asked to input calorie counts into a food tracking app. </p>



<p>The study revealed that students without specific calorie information tended to enter fewer calories than those with complete information.</p>



<p>One possible explanation? They were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-motivates-students-to-cheat-in-online-exams/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cheating</a> themselves to feel healthier.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-deception-and-perception">Self-deception and perception</h2>



<p>A similar pattern emerged in the second study, which involved an online IQ test.</p>



<p>Participants who were allowed to cheat reported higher IQ scores. Furthermore, they genuinely believed their performance was due to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humor-is-a-clear-sign-of-intelligence-among-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intelligence</a> - not to the fact that they had cheated.</p>



<p>A third test, which was based on a word unscrambling task, further reinforced the self-deception phenomenon.</p>



<p>The participants who cheated not only reported unscrambling more words but were also more convinced that their performance was a true reflection of their intelligence.</p>



<p>“The thinking goes, ‘I’m performing well because I’m smart, not because the task allowed me to cheat,'” said Dr. Dommer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-uncertainty-to-curb-cheating">Introducing uncertainty to curb cheating</h2>



<p>A fourth experiment aimed to see if increased uncertainty about one's financial literacy skills would deter participants from cheating. </p>



<p>Indeed, when faced with the sobering fact that most American adults cannot pass a basic financial literacy test, participants were less likely to inflate their scores. </p>



<p>“How do we stop people from engaging in diagnostic self-deception and get a more accurate representation of who they are? One way is to draw their attention to uncertainty around the trait itself. This seems to mitigate the effect," noted Dr. Dommer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-many-faces-of-cheating">The many faces of cheating</h2>



<p>The assumption that cheating is always a strategic and intentional act is not entirely accurate. As Dommer's research highlights, cheating can occur unconsciously as a means to boost one's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-digital-technology-influence-our-sense-of-self/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-perception</a>.</p>



<p>However, it's essential to recognize the potential harm of these "illusory self-beliefs," especially when they affect crucial aspects like financial or physical health. </p>



<p>"When a person engages in diagnostic self-deception, they may underuse products and services designed to help them. This is why it’s important to be aware of illusory beliefs and strive to seek accurate self-assessments," said Dr. Dommer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-illusion-striking-a-balance">Beyond the illusion: Striking a balance</h2>



<p>While self-deception can offer a temporary confidence boost, it raises an important question - how can individuals balance healthy self-perception with an honest evaluation of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boredom-can-make-children-more-creative-and-teach-new-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skills</a>?</p>



<p>Recognizing when self-deception is at play is the first step. Encouraging self-reflection, seeking objective feedback, and relying on concrete data rather than gut feelings can help counteract misleading self-beliefs.</p>



<p>Moreover, the findings highlight the broader implications of diagnostic self-deception beyond personal assessments.</p>



<p>From workplace performance to health management and financial planning, an inflated sense of ability can make a person overlook weaknesses and miss opportunities for growth.</p>



<p>Understanding this subtle but powerful psychological tendency might just be the key to fostering greater self-awareness - and ultimately, making more informed decisions in everyday life.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/732915" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Association for Consumer Research</a></em>.</p>



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Science of self-deception: How cheating can make us feel smarter

Self-deception plays a bigger role in our lives than we...

<p>They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the waves at barely a few inches long. Some people assume these little sea turtles vanish after that, drifting in the open water for years without actively swimming or controlling where they go.</p>



<p>In a recent <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by Kate Mansfield from the University of Central Florida, researchers have pieced together what happens during the early, lesser-known part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-show-signs-of-recovery-but-conservation-issues-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles’ lives</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-baby-turtles-is-difficult">Tracking baby turtles is difficult</h2>



<p>Researchers recently uncovered the whereabouts of young sea turtles by using carefully designed satellite trackers. They found that tiny turtles show more control over their movement than once believed.</p>



<p>“We’ve had massive data gaps about the early baby to toddler life stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-celebrating-100-million-years-of-majesty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea</a> turtles,” said Mansfield. She explained that this phase was rarely observed in detail.</p>



<p>"Known as the sea turtle ‘lost years,' few data exist on the in-water behavior of young, oceanic-stage sea turtles," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-impacts-the-size-of-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Young</a> turtles shed their outer shell layers quickly. This makes it tough to secure tracking devices long enough to gather good data.</p>



<p>Engineers refined lightweight solar-powered tags for weeks or months of location data without hindering the turtles.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-sea-turtles-don-t-just-drift">Young sea turtles don’t just drift</h2>



<p>Scientists once believed baby turtles went with the flow of ocean currents. Field data are now challenging that long-standing notion.</p>



<p>“What we’ve uncovered is that the turtles are actually swimming,” said Nathan Putman, an ecologist at LGL Ecological Research Associates in Texas.</p>



<p>The analysis compared drifting buoys with small turtles and showed that many turtles moved on their own instead of washing ashore.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-turtles-choose-where-to-swim">Baby turtles choose where to swim</h2>



<p>The difference between turtles and free-floating buoys grew clearer over the course of each tracking period. Drifting objects often ended up stuck on beaches, yet many turtles did not.</p>



<p>“This tiny little hatchling is actually making its own decisions about where it wants to go in the ocean and what it wants to avoid,” said Bryan Wallace, a wildlife ecologist at <a href="https://ecolibriumsolar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecolibrium in Colorado</a>.</p>



<p>The new findings suggest that turtles choose routes that match their needs for food and safe temperatures.</p>



<p>"The paths of our tracked neonate loggerheads were environmentally constrained. No turtles moved into lethally cold waters," noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-habitats-of-sea-turtles-revealed">Hidden habitats of sea turtles revealed</h2>



<p>Tag data also showed young sea turtles in areas once assumed too close to shore for this stage. Though many do wander across open waters, some appear comfortable dipping into shallower spots.</p>



<p>The researchers noted that such varied paths challenge the old definition of an exclusively oceanic childhood. This highlights the importance of regions near the continental shelf for four types of endangered sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leatherback-sea-turtles-where-the-worlds-largest-turtles-go-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a>.</p>



<p>It took years to refine solar-powered tags that could function on small, rapidly growing shells. Early versions fell off too fast or failed to recharge in ocean conditions.</p>



<p>“For years, the technology couldn’t match the dream,” said Jeffrey Seminoff, a marine biologist at NOAA who was not involved in the study. </p>



<p>Continued collaboration between ecologists and engineers is bringing once-hidden animal behavior to light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-for-sea-turtles">Conservation efforts for sea turtles </h2>



<p>The findings spotlight part of a creature’s life that was overshadowed for decades by hatchling races to the sea and nesting adults on familiar beaches. </p>



<p>Young turtles do more than just drift - they swim toward the open ocean, while others linger over the continental shelf.</p>



<p>“It’s not that the sea turtles were ever lost, but that we had lost track of them,” said Jeanette Wyneken at Florida Atlantic University. This deeper understanding may guide conservation efforts in areas where turtles feed or rest before reaching adulthood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-how-baby-turtles-swim">Rethinking how baby turtles swim</h2>



<p>The research suggests that the early life stage of sea turtles is not just a dispersal period. The study captures the reality that little turtles roam widely and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-a-tribute-to-resilience-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt</a> their routes to changing conditions.</p>



<p>They might spot floating algae to seek shelter, or they might veer away from predator hotspots. Even in vast waters, these hatchlings can find ways to survive on their own terms.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B</em></a>.</p>



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Where young sea turtles spend their early lives has always been a mystery - until now

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the...

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<p>                <br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today&#8217;s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from </span><a href="https://www.rmit.edu.au/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">RMIT University</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> demonstrates the dangerous effect that the natural vibrations of cars can have on drivers.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While observing volunteers in a vibrating simulator, the researchers found that sleepiness can set in after just 15 minutes of driving. Furthermore, within half an hour, this sleepiness can have a hazardous influence on the driver&#8217;s ability to focus and stay alert behind the wheel.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The team hopes that their findings may encourage manufacturers to design car seats that will not vibrate and cause drowsiness.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span><a href="http://csexton@earth.com"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chrissy Sexton</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></em></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: RMIT University</span></em></p>

Vibrating car seats can make drivers sleepy