Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Saba, a small island in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. Saba is the top of a volcano that became active during the Pleistocene era.



"Located about 140 kilometers east of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the active stratovolcano rises 1,500 meters above the sea floor," says NASA. "Above the water, rainforests cover the steep slopes of the volcano, home to many birds, orchids and reptiles, including an endemic spotted lizard, the Saban anole (Anolus sabensis). Below the water, corals and other species thrive."



"The largest city and the capital city of the island, called The Bottom, lies between the port and the higher elevations of the volcano."&nbsp;



Due to a lack of sandy beaches, Saba is not a major tourist destination like other Caribbean islands. However, it is a popular spot for divers to find corals and sea urchins.



According to NASA, sea urchins in the Caribbean started mysteriously dying off in early 2022. Dive shops in the region began reporting mysterious sea urchin die offs in February, particularly the long-spined sea urchin Diadema antillarum.&nbsp;



"Saba’s reef was once home to more than 5,000 D. antillarum. But in April 2022, in a section of Saba’s reef called 'Diadema City,' half of the long-spined sea urchins died off in just one week, and only 100 remained in June, according to reporting in ScienceNews."



"The massive loss of sea urchins is reminiscent of a die-off that started in 1983, in which virtually all of the D. antillarum population in the Caribbean was eliminated within a year. Although the exact cause of the 1983 and 2022 die-offs is still a mystery, many researchers agree that the speed and scope of the event in the 1980s indicates the spread of an unknown disease," says NASA.



The image was captured on August 16, 2022 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

The volcanic island of Saba

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

A sparkling galactic neighbour

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the galaxy ESO 300-16, which is located 28.7 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Eridanus



According to ESA, the galaxy is a ghostly assemblage of stars which resembles a sparkling cloud.&nbsp;



"A rogue’s gallery of distant galaxies and foreground stars complete this astronomical portrait, which was captured by the Advanced Camera for Surveys," said ESA.



"This observation is one of a series which aims to get to know our galactic neighbors; around three quarters of the known galaxies suspected to lie within 10 megaparsecs of Earth have been observed by Hubble in enough detail to resolve their brightest stars and establish the distances to these galaxies."



"A team of astronomers proposed using small gaps in Hubble’s observing schedule to acquaint ourselves with the remaining quarter of the nearby galaxies."



ESO 300-16 is a relatively small and remote dwarf galaxy. It is sometimes known as a "compact blue dwarf galaxy" because of its size and the intense blue colors indicating active star formation.&nbsp;



These galaxies are typically small, but they have high star-forming rates for their size. This kind of galaxy can provide insights into the process of star formation as well as galaxy evolution in general.



Dwarf galaxies are of particular interest to astronomers because they can help to provide understanding about the formation and evolution of galaxies in the early universe. They're also thought to play a role in the assembly of larger galaxies over cosmic time.



By studying galaxies like ESO 300-16, astronomers can hope to better understand how galaxies grow, evolve, and interact over time.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA



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A ghostly assemblage of stars make up the galaxy ESO 300-16

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an astronaut view of the Tunupa Volcano, a dormant volcano in southwestern Bolivia. The volcano is located on a peninsula between two of Bolivia’s largest salt flats - Salar de Uyuni and Salar de Coipasa.



"Tunupa Volcano is located at the center of the Southern Altiplano, or the Andean Plateau, and rises as high as 5.3 kilometers (3.3 miles) in elevation," says NASA. "The volcano is a composite cone - a large, complex volcano that is often covered by lava flows, pyroclastic and mudflow deposits, and domes. Last active about 1.4 million years ago, Tunupa is now considered dormant."



"The flanks of the volcano’s cone are incised by valleys that were eroded by ancient glaciers and stream flows. Domes and lava flows appear on the eastern side of Tunupa, and the volcano is adjacent to other eroded volcanic fields and craters, including Jayu Khota and Titivilla."



According to NASA. the salt flats are typically a bright white color when viewed from orbit - but during Bolivia’s rainy season, rivers can carry sediment rich in microbes and dark-colored volcanic minerals onto the flats.&nbsp;



The image was captured on February 5, 2022 by a member of the Expedition 66 crew.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Tunupa Volcano in southwestern Bolivia

Today's Image of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2023/09/Earth_from_Space_Southern_Patagonian_Ice_Field">European Space Agency</a> features the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the Southern Andes. It is one of the world's largest continuous masses of ice outside the polar regions.&nbsp;



The Southern Patagonian Ice Field spreads across the border between Argentina and Chile and is an essential fresh water reservoir. Covering an area of about 12,363 square kilometers, it is home to numerous glaciers, including the well-known Perito Moreno and Upsala Glaciers in Argentina.



The ice field is situated within the Andes mountain range and is part of two national parks: the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina and the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.&nbsp;



"Ice fields form as a result of accumulations of snow that turn into ice through years of compression and freezing. Shaped by the underlying topography, glaciers often form at the edges of an ice field," explained ESA.



"In this image, the ice mass feeds several smaller and bigger glaciers, including the Argentinian Perito Moreno Glacier in the top right corner. Located on a narrow channel, Perito Moreno feeds Lake Argentino and forms an ice dam that separates the main body of the lake, visible on top in turquoise, from its southern arm, which appears grey."



The Southern Patagonian Ice Field is crucial for the study of climate change as it reacts sensitively to temperature variations. Over recent years, it has experienced significant retreat and thinning due to global warming, leading to concerns over rising sea levels and loss of freshwater resources.&nbsp;



"Glaciers are the largest reservoirs of freshwater on our planet. The rate at which they may be melting or growing is one of the best indicators of climate change," said ESA. "The demise of glaciers is one of the main causes of sea-level rise. Many glaciers in Patagonia have retreated over the last 50 years."&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the Andes Mountains

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory </a>&nbsp;features a dust storm that moved across parts of Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan in mid-September.



"This image, acquired by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) instrument on the NOAA-NASA Suomi NPP satellite, shows thick plumes of dust blowing hundreds of kilometers across the arid region on September 22, 2023," said NASA.



"The dust appears to emanate from the ephemeral Hamun wetlands, which partially surround the Iranian city of Zabol. When dry, this area becomes a hotspot for dust storms due to a persistent weather feature known as the Levar wind (or “120-day wind”), which blows out of the northwest from late-May to late-September."



Across the Sistan-Baluchistan province in southeastern Iran, three people were killed in accidents related to poor visibility and more than 1,300 others sought medical assistance for respiratory, heart, and eye ailments.



According to NASA, more than two decades of low water levels in the Hamun wetlands have led to a significant increase in dust storms. This has been especially the case during the 120-day winds, strong summer winds that occur from late May to late September.



"Water levels are influenced by rainfall and the flow of the Helmand river, which runs from the Hindu Kush mountains across Afghanistan before terminating at the wetlands. More frequent drought since 1999, along with increasing upstream demands on water resources for agriculture and other uses, have amplified the drying," said NASA.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Brutal dust storm sweeps across Southern Asia

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

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust flowing through the Tokar Gap, where the easternmost extent of the African Sahel meets the Red Sea.



"Mountain chains border both sides of the Red Sea, the long narrow inlet of the Indian Ocean that separates Saudi Arabia to the east from Egypt, Sudan, and Eritrea to the west. One major exception is the Tokar Gap, a 100-kilometer (60-mile) break in the Red Sea Hills that serves as a conduit for both winds and dust," says NASA.



"In the summer, strong surface winds frequently stream through the gap from the southwest, often funneling narrow plumes of dust from the Tokar Delta over the Red Sea."



The photo was captured on June 24, 2023 by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Aqua satellite. The image shows a plume of dust from Sudan pushing through the Tokar Gap.



"In the winter, the winds reverse and winds typically gather over the Red Sea and move through the gap toward the southwest," says NASA.



"A 2019 analysis of weather conditions that fuel summer dust storms indicated that stronger winds moving through the Tokar Gap - and warmer air and soil temperatures - have increased the amount of airborne dust found in this area since 2002."



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/ Wanmei Liang



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Dust from Africa streams through the Tokar Gap

Upon seeing that there was a strange new ape present, the silverback needed to determine if he was a threat to the troop. In that moment, the spy gorilla would be put to the ultimate test...

Fists of Fury

Researchers at <a href="https://www.gwu.edu/">George Washington University</a> have explored the unspoken language of loyal companionship shared between humans and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-small-dogs-live-longer-than-large-breeds/">dogs</a>. The study reveals intriguing insights about how dogs' facial markings can be indicative of the depth of their bonds with their human owners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-canine-communication-nbsp">Canine communication&nbsp;</h2>



Over 65 million households in the United States currently enjoy the love and dedication of canine companions, as reported by Statista. These beloved pets are famous for their affectionate and loyal nature. Yet, the essence of the powerful connection formed between humans and dogs has remained a mystery.



The new study sheds light on this mystery by delving into the possible implications of dogs’ facial markings on human-canine relationships.&nbsp;



The report suggests that dogs with simpler facial markings, such as those with a single color or without any patterns and spots, tend to be more expressive when interacting with humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



Expressiveness in dogs refers to the various ways dogs communicate with both humans and other animals through physical gestures, facial expressions, vocalizations, and body language.&nbsp;



This ability plays a crucial role in establishing and maintaining strong bonds between dogs and their owners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



For the investigation, the researchers observed 100 dogs along with their respective owners across four different scenarios.&nbsp;



Each dog's behavior was scrutinized using the Dog Facial Action Coding System (DogFACS). This innovative system enables researchers to quantify and evaluate the dogs’ facial markings and expressions.



The results showed a remarkable degree of accuracy among owners of middle-aged dogs (aged two to seven years) in interpreting their pets' expressiveness, particularly if the dogs had simple facial markings.



Participants were also surveyed about various dog demographics and their aptitude at discerning their pet’s expressions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-welfare">Dog welfare</h2>



“As dogs become more and more integrated into human society, it’s important that we understand how they communicate with us and how we can better communicate with them,” said study lead author Courtney Sexton.



“If we think about this in terms of welfare contexts, or dogs in shelters, or working dogs and service animals, or interactions with dogs in your neighborhood or people at a dog park, knowing what dogs are trying to tell us and what they might be thinking or feeling can really enhance both their experience and ours when we’re together.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-learned-nbsp">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers noted that senior dogs tend to be less expressive toward their human partners.&nbsp;



According to Sexton, this may be attributed to the established rapport older dogs share with their owners, reducing the need for overt expressiveness to communicate effectively.&nbsp;



By contrast, working dogs and those with extensive training were observed to be more expressive, likely because clear communication is imperative in their roles.



Understanding canine expressiveness can immensely benefit both dogs and their human companions by promoting better communication and stronger bonds.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expressiveness-in-dogs">Expressiveness in dogs</h2>



Understanding a dog’s expressiveness is important for responsible pet ownership as it helps in interpreting the animal’s needs, emotions, and well-being accurately.&nbsp;



By paying close attention to a dog’s various forms of expression, owners can build stronger, more empathetic relationships with their furry companions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-facial-expressions">Facial expressions</h3>



Dogs have an array of facial expressions that they use to convey different emotions and intentions. For instance, the raising of eyebrows, exposing teeth, and movements of the ears can all signal different states of mind, ranging from excitement and contentment to anxiety and aggression.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vocalizations">Vocalizations</h3>



Dogs communicate vocally through barks, whines, growls, and howls. Each vocalization can carry different meanings depending on its pitch, duration, and frequency.&nbsp;



For example, a high-pitched bark might indicate excitement or attention-seeking, while a low growl could signal discomfort or warning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-language">Body language</h2>



Dogs utilize their entire body to communicate. The position of the tail, the stiffness or relaxation of the body, and the way a dog approaches or avoids something all provide crucial cues about what the dog is feeling or intending.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-humans">Learning from humans</h3>



Research shows that dogs are adept at reading human emotions and facial expressions. Dogs can understand human smiles, frowns, and even the direction of a person’s gaze, adjusting their behavior in response to these cues.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-variations-in-expressiveness">Variations in expressiveness</h3>



Different breeds and individual dogs can vary significantly in their levels of expressiveness. For example, some breeds are known for being more vocal, while others are renowned for their expressive eyes or energetic body language.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-and-socialization">Training and socialization</h3>



A dog’s expressiveness can also be shaped by training and socialization. Dogs that have been well-socialized from a young age are typically more comfortable expressing themselves and are better at interpreting the expressions and cues of others.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-related-changes">Age-related changes</h3>



As dogs age, there might be changes in their expressiveness. Senior dogs may not be as energetically expressive as their younger counterparts, but they often develop a deep understanding and communication rhythm with their owners, as noted in the study.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications">Health implications</h3>



Changes in a dog’s normal expressive behavior can also be indicative of health issues. For instance, a usually expressive and energetic dog becoming suddenly withdrawn and quiet might be experiencing pain or discomfort.



The research is published in the journal Animals.



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Dogs’ facial markings influence how they bond with humans

Researchers at George Washington University have explored the unspoken language...

In a new study from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/study-introduces-new-internet-addiction-spectrum-where-are-you-scale">University of Surrey</a>, researchers have introduced an internet addiction spectrum, classifying internet users into five specific categories based on their behavior and dependency levels.&nbsp;



The goal of the study was to distinguish between problematic internet use and actual addiction, providing critical insights that could guide future digital services and AR application design.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-snapshot-of-online-behavior">A snapshot of online behavior</h2>



The research data shows that younger individuals, those aged 24 and below, spend an average of six hours a day online, with the primary device of choice being their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-spend-nearly-5-hours-a-day-on-smartphones/">smartphones</a>.&nbsp;



By contrast, those aged 24 and above reported spending approximately 4.6 hours on the internet daily.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-spectrum">Breaking down the spectrum</h2>



The study, which was focused on data from 796 participants, divided internet users into the following categories:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-casual-users-14-86">Casual users (14.86%)</h3>



Represented primarily by older users with an average age of 33.4 years, this group utilizes the internet for specific purposes and doesn't hang around. Notably, these individuals are not interested in exploring new apps and exhibit no signs of addiction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-initial-users-22-86-nbsp">Initial users (22.86%)&nbsp;</h3>



With an average age of 26.1 years, these users tend to spend more time online than they initially plan to. While these individuals might neglect some household chores, they don't label themselves as addicted and have a moderate interest in new apps.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experimenters-21-98">Experimenters (21.98%)</h3>



Falling within the age range of 22.8 to 24.3 years, this category is characterized by individuals who experience uneasiness or anxiety when not online. Their connection to the internet is a relief, and they are quite open to exploring new apps and technology.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-in-denial-17-96">Addicts-in-denial (17.96%)</h3>



These users exhibit clear signs of addiction, such as prioritizing online relationships over real-world commitments but deny feeling any discomfort when not connected. Their confidence in using mobile technology is apparent.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addicts-22-36">Addicts (22.36%)</h3>



This segment openly acknowledges their internet addiction and the consequent negative impacts on their lives. These individuals show the most confidence in using and experimenting with new technology and apps. Their online presence is considerably greater than that of casual users.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



"Our main aim was to clarify the difference between using the internet in a problematic way and being addicted to it. We found that the younger you are, the more likely you are to be addicted to the internet, and this tendency decreases with age," said study lead author Dr. Brigitte Stangl.



"We also wanted to explore how the severity of internet addiction affects users' experience with new, high-tech applications like augmented reality."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-notable-findings">Notable findings</h2>



The study revealed that emotional experiences, such as feelings derived from app use, predominantly predicted future behavior across all groups when it came to augmented reality interactions.&nbsp;



On the other hand, action experiences, like navigating websites or gaming, were found to be largely inconsequential for the addict group.



Interestingly, gender did not influence online behavior. However, the study established a direct correlation between high levels of internet addiction and confidence in using mobile technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications">Future implications</h2>



"Our study underscores the need for tailored interventions and support for individuals at various stages of internet addiction," said Dr. Stangl.



"The findings will certainly influence the design and development of digital services and AR applications, ensuring they cater to the diverse needs of users in the current digital environment."



This research underscores the growing need to understand and address internet addiction in today’s digital age.



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Internet addiction: Where do you fall on the spectrum?

In a new study from the University of Surrey, researchers...

Drying,The,Planet,Earth.,Concept,Of,Waste,Water,In,The

In a groundbreaking endeavor, engineers from MIT and China have designed a passive solar desalination system aimed at converting seawater into drinkable water. 



The concept, articulated in a study published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.joule.2023.08.012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal Joule</a>, harnesses the dual powers of the sun and the inherent properties of seawater, emulating the ocean's "thermohaline" circulation on a smaller scale, to evaporate water and leave salt behind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-design-inspired-by-nature">Design inspired by nature</h2>



The scientists have developed a configuration where water circulates in swirling eddies similar to oceanic thermohaline circulation. This circulation, coupled with sunlight, enables water to evaporate. This leaves the salt circulating within the device. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-hydrogel-can-extract-unlimited-amounts-of-water-from-the-air-even-in-deserts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water vapor</a> is then condensed, providing pure, drinkable water, while the residual salt is expelled, preventing accumulation and system blockages.



The newly developed system surpasses all existing passive solar desalination prototypes in terms of water-production rate and salt-rejection rate. Lenan Zhang, a research scientist in MIT’s <a href="https://drl.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Device Research Laboratory</a>, stated, “For the first time, it is possible for water, produced by sunlight, to be even cheaper than tap water.” 



The device, if enlarged to the size of a small suitcase, could yield approximately 4 to 6 liters of drinking water per hour and sustain several years before necessitating replacements. The team envisions that a scaled-up device could fulfill the daily water needs of a small family and potentially benefit off-grid coastal communities with ready access to seawater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-user-friendly-water-desalination">User-friendly water desalination</h2>



The design has evolved from the team's prior concepts, avoiding the issues of salt crystallization and clogging experienced in earlier models. This design not only resolves the salt accumulation issue but also enhances desalination rates. The scientists have achieved high water production and salt rejection reliably over extended periods. 



Xu, one of the team members, mentioned, “We introduce now an even more powerful convection, similar to what we typically see in the ocean, at kilometer-long scales.” 



The team successfully emulated the kilometer-wide phenomena of thermohaline convection in a compact box, enabling the efficient rejection of salt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingenious-structural-composition">Ingenious structural composition</h2>



The essence of the new design is a single stage that resembles a thin box, topped with a material to absorb the sun’s heat effectively. It is compartmentalized to allow water flow through the top half where the evaporator layer, using solar heat, evaporates the water in contact. 



This vapor is then directed to the lower half and condensed into a salt-free, drinkable liquid by an air-cooling layer. Several prototypes have been tested, revealing that a scaled-up square meter stage could produce up to 5 liters of drinking water per hour, operating efficiently for several years without salt accumulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desalination-implications-and-prospects">Desalination implications and prospects</h2>



Yang Zhong, an <a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> graduate student, emphasized the potential real-world impact, saying, “For the first time, it is possible for drinking water produced by sunlight to be cheaper than tap water. This opens up the possibility for solar desalination to address real-world problems.” 



Given its extended life span and passive nature, requiring no electricity, the overall operational cost is estimated to be cheaper than producing tap water in the United States, marking it as a feasible solution to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-worlds-climate-driven-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global water scarcity issues</a>.



The dedicated collaboration included MIT’s Yang Zhong and Evelyn Wang, along with Lenan Zhang, and experts Jintong Gao, Jinfang You, Zhanyu Ye, Ruzhu Wang, and Zhenyuan Xu from Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China. Their collective endeavor holds the promise of a cost-effective and sustainable solution for water production, potentially alleviating water scarcity in remote and coastal regions globally.



In summary, this innovative solar desalination system devised by the engineers at MIT and in China demonstrates a significant leap in addressing the pressing global issue of water scarcity. 



By efficiently and passively converting seawater into drinkable water using sunlight, this technology offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution. It stands as a testament to the potential of combining engineering ingenuity with natural processes to solve critical real-world problems, ushering in new possibilities in water purification and conservation.



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Cheap and drinkable water from desalination is finally a reality

In a groundbreaking endeavor, engineers from MIT and China have...

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woody-vines-amplify-the-effects-of-lightning-in-tropical-forests/">Tropical forests</a> are no longer the world's major global carbon sinks, as previously believed. Instead, boreal and temperate forests have taken up this role, according to an international research team coordinated by the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and INRAE.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



Using a novel analysis technique for satellite images, the researchers meticulously mapped yearly fluctuations in global forest biomass over a span of a decade, from 2010 to 2019.&nbsp;



The results showed that tropical forests, although expansive and ancient, are now almost carbon-neutral due to the degradation brought about by deforestation, fires, and droughts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biomass-and-carbon-sequestration">Biomass and carbon sequestration</h2>



A surge in plant biomass signifies a boost in carbon sequestration, a key process in counteracting the climate crisis.&nbsp;



The balance of this biomass carbon hinges on a delicate equilibrium between gains from plant growth and forest expansion and losses stemming from deforestation, natural disturbances, and other factors.&nbsp;



Keeping track of these stocks is crucial for deciphering and forecasting climate change impacts, as well as assessing human-induced ecosystem modifications.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellite-imaging">Satellite imaging</h2>



The Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS) satellite, leveraging the L-band vegetation optical depth (L-VOD) techniques, was instrumental in estimating the above-ground carbon stocks at a global scale.&nbsp;



However, challenges like radio interference from human activities and L-VOD's sensitivity to vegetative water content posed hindrances. The team's solution was an innovative double filter to offset these effects.



By employing this novel method and analyzing above-ground biomass data, the researchers were able to determine the overall biomass. 



They meticulously calculated the spatial and temporal distribution of total biomass carbon from 2010 to 2019, creating detailed maps that charted the annual changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-stock-insights">Carbon stock insights</h2>



The study revealed that terrestrial biomass carbon stocks experienced a surge of roughly 500 million tons of carbon annually from 2010 to 2019. 



Surprisingly, it was the boreal and temperate forests that emerged as the prime contributors to this carbon sink, overshadowing tropical forests which have transformed into minor carbon sources due to deforestation and recurrent droughts.&nbsp;



Old-growth tropical forests, where trees often surpass 140 years in age, are barely breaking even in terms of carbon. In contrast, the younger and middle-aged trees of the temperate and boreal forests, aged between less than 50 to 140 years, are proving to be the carbon champions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



This revelation challenges the established prediction models that painted old-growth forests as significant carbon sinks, neglecting the nuances of forest demography and the debilitating effects of deforestation on tropical forests.



The study emphasizes the importance of considering forest degradation and age dynamics in predicting future carbon sinks.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-023-01274-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Boreal and temperate forests have emerged as the main carbon sinks 

Tropical forests are no longer the world's major global carbon...

Recent observations of the BlueWalker 3 prototype <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/satellites-have-become-essential-to-our-survival/">satellite</a> have indicated that it’s a particularly bright presence in the night sky, rivaling the intensity of many major stars. Scientists are increasingly concerned that if unchecked, expansive satellite groups could compromise our terrestrial star observation and hinder radio astronomy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-constellations-of-satellites">Constellations of satellites</h2>



While numerous corporations harbor ambitions of launching "constellations" of satellites – vast clusters of hundreds of satellites that aim to provide universal mobile or broadband connectivity – there are significant challenges to such endeavors.&nbsp;



These satellites, due to their required positioning in low-Earth orbit and their significant size, have the potential to disrupt astronomical observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study-nbsp">Focus of the study&nbsp;</h2>



Recently, a study led by the <a href="https://cps.iau.org/">IAU Center for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference</a> (CPS) in collaboration with Imperial College London (ICL) has investigated the potential implications of the prototype BlueWalker 3 satellite for astronomy.



“The night sky is a unique laboratory that allows scientists to conduct experiments that cannot be done in terrestrial laboratories,” said Dave Clements, a physicist at ICL.&nbsp;



“Astronomical observations have provided insights into fundamental physics and other research at the boundaries of our knowledge and changed humanity’s view of our place in the cosmos. The pristine night sky is also an important part of humanity’s shared cultural heritage and should be protected for society at large and for future generations.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bluewalker-3-satellite">BlueWalker 3 satellite</h2>



<a href="https://ast-science.com/">AST SpaceMobile</a> deployed the BlueWalker 3 satellite into low-Earth orbit on September 10, 2022, as a precursor for a more expansive project to launch a constellation of over a hundred similar satellites, all targeted for mobile communication functions. Observations soon after the satellite’s launch already categorized it as a notably bright entity in the night sky.



To delve deeper into its impact on astronomy, the CPS initiated a comprehensive global observation drive. This initiative included both amateur and professional astronomers contributing observations from various regions like Chile, Aotearoa New Zealand, Morocco, the US, the Netherlands, and Mexico.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observational-data-nbsp">Observational data&nbsp;</h2>



Over 130 days, this observational data revealed a significant spike in the satellite’s brightness, aligning with the complete deployment of its antenna array, which, spanning 64 square meters, is acknowledged as the most expansive commercial antenna ever dispatched to a low-Earth orbit.



A part of these observations were then utilized to determine the satellite’s trajectory. By comparing anticipated trajectories with the gathered data, it became possible to assess the precision of these predictions, especially in the context of variables such as atmospheric drag.



Knowing where satellites are positioned is pivotal for astronomers since it enables them to anticipate and account for these entities during their studies. However, countering their brightness presents challenges.



In addition, there are concerns about potential interference with radio astronomy. BlueWalker 3, operating on certain wavelengths, could disrupt radio telescope observations. Some telescopes, located in designated radio-silent zones, are primed to evade terrestrial interference, but satellite transmissions remain a concern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed-nbsp">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



“BlueWalker 3 actively transmits at radio frequencies that are close to bands reserved for radio astronomy, and existing observatory protections from radio interference may not be sufficient,” said Mike Peel, the co-lead of IAU CPS’s Sathub and a research associate at the Department of Physics at ICL. “Further research is therefore required to develop strategies for protecting existing and upcoming telescopes from the numerous satellites planned for launch over the next decade.”



While both IAU and CPS acknowledge the transformative potential of these new satellite constellations, they caution against the possibility of inadvertently hindering astronomical studies. The onus, they believe, is on ensuring that these satellite deployments are undertaken with a keen awareness of their potential side effects.



Further observations of BlueWalker 3 will start soon, with astronomers preparing to examine its thermal emissions. Scientists will continue to discuss this topic at the upcoming IAU Symposium: Astronomy and Satellite Constellations: Pathways Forward in October.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06672-7">Nature</a>.



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Communications satellites may disrupt astronomical observations

Recent observations of the BlueWalker 3 prototype satellite have indicated...

Researchers at the National University of Singapore’s Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions (CNCS) are urging governments to rethink the use of abandoned croplands for supporting climate mitigation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-infections-are-threatening-global-food-security/">food security</a> efforts.&nbsp;



The study emphasizes the "second chance" these neglected lands deserve for addressing dual global crises of climate change and food shortage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



The researchers noted that the rising food demand associated with escalating global populations has led to the expansive growth of agricultural lands. Unfortunately, this expansion often encroaches upon and endangers crucial natural habitats like tropical forests.&nbsp;



At the same time, a substantial amount of croplands are abandoned annually due to various factors including land degradation, socio-economic shifts, disasters, armed conflicts, and urbanization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abandoned-land">Abandoned land</h2>



The experts found that between 1992 and 2020, there was an abandonment of approximately 101 million hectares of croplands globally, mirroring the land size of Egypt.&nbsp;



This translates to an abandonment rate of around 3.6 million hectares annually, or lands about 50 times the size of Singapore being deserted each year.



However, the CNCS study sheds new light on the potential of these abandoned croplands. Through strategic management, abandoned croplands can be effectively recultivated or reforested to serve as powerful nature-based solutions.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-solutions">Potential solutions</h2>



Recultivation for food production would alleviate the pressure of clearing forests for new croplands, thereby aiding in the conservation of existing forests.&nbsp;



Conversely, reforesting these lands would establish young forests that act as carbon sinks, absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide and playing a pivotal role in climate change mitigation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recultivation">Recultivation</h2>



The study’s analysis of geospatial data reveals that out of the global 101 million hectares of abandoned cropland, 61 million hectares are viable for recultivation. This could potentially produce enough food to nourish between 292 to 476 million people annually.&nbsp;



However, it is crucial to consider that this endeavor would also incur emissions from clearing the vegetation on these abandoned areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reforestation-nbsp">Reforestation&nbsp;</h2>



Furthermore, the researchers identified 83 million hectares available for reforestation. If fully utilized, these reforested lands could sequester up to 1,066 million tons of carbon dioxide per annum, roughly equivalent to Japan’s yearly emissions.&nbsp;



Interestingly, about half of the total abandoned cropland, approximately 50.5 million hectares, was deemed suitable for both recultivation and reforestation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-untapped-resource">Untapped resource&nbsp;</h2>



Policymakers should weigh the benefits and trade-offs of either recultivation or reforestation based on specific national circumstances, priorities, and various other influencing factors.&nbsp;



For instance, local policies, market access, and the degree of openness to international trade could significantly impact these decisions.



“In the face of global challenges such as climate change and food scarcity, countries are often faced with the shortage of available land and the tough choice of whether land should be allocated for carbon sequestration or food production. But our study has found that abandoned cropland is a largely untapped resource that could help to achieve either or both aims," said lead researcher Dr. Qiming Zheng.



"Nevertheless, it requires an integrative use of scientific analysis of the land suitability and achieveable potentials, as well as context-specific local knowledge, to best unlock the potential of abandoned cropland.”



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-41837-y">Nature Communications</a>.



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Abandoned croplands could boost food security and climate mitigation

Researchers at the National University of Singapore’s Centre for Nature-based...

Red,Aurora,(northern,Lights),Over,Mono,Lake,In,A,Rare

This week, the world bore witness to a spectacular celestial display of red auroras, as a powerful solar storm collided with Earth’s magnetic field, painting the night sky with vibrant hues of red. 



Skywatchers from Europe to North America were treated to this stunning light show, particularly those in regions with clear skies. Some observers described the display as the '<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/aurora-borealis_red_green_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Holy Grail of Northern Lights</a>', given the rarity of witnessing red auroras, especially as far south as France and Kansas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collision-of-natural-forces">Collision of natural forces</h2>



Solar storms result from the expulsion of charged particles from the Sun, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar winds</a>. These winds interact with Earth's magnetosphere, and our planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a> captures and directs these particles toward high-latitude regions near the magnetic poles. 



The collisions between these charged particles and atoms and molecules in Earth’s atmosphere, like oxygen and nitrogen, energize them. This results in beautiful light shows in various colors, creating the mesmerizing phenomenon known as <a href="https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/aurora/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">auroras</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-palette-of-the-skies">The palette of the skies</h2>



Different gases and altitudes result in the emission of different colors. Oxygen at higher altitudes emits red light, while at lower altitudes it produces green light. Nitrogen, on the other hand, can produce purples, blues, and pinks. 



Green is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/catch-the-aurora-borealis-in-iceland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most prevalent aurora color</a> due to the optimal conditions and altitudes for producing the green wavelength. This often creates a breathtaking spectacle as the lights ripple, dance, and shimmer across the night sky. However, during strong auroral displays, red, purple, and blue may also appear, adding to the splendor of the visual feast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-auroras-a-scarlet-spectacle">Red auroras -- A scarlet spectacle</h2>



Red auroras are particularly enchanting, resulting from high-energy electrons colliding with oxygen atoms at altitudes above 200 miles. The longer wavelength of red light allows it to travel farther distances and often appear at the lower edges of an aurora. 



The red hue isn’t as common as green, occurring less frequently due to its reliance on collisions at higher altitudes. During active displays, the red dances above the green, creating an unparalleled natural light show.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-impact">Unexpected impact</h2>



Although experts had predicted a solar storm for September 24, the strength of the impact surpassed expectations. The flare from the Sun triggered a potent geomagnetic storm above Europe, illuminating the skies of Scotland, Iceland, and the Netherlands with bright green and red auroras. It later traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to North America, extending as far south as Kansas and Nebraska.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-year-of-celestial-wonders">A year of celestial wonders</h2>



For aurora chasers, this year has been notably thrilling, with several astonishing displays of northern lights reaching unusually far south. The last red aurora observed was in February, and the frequency of such events is attributed to a surprisingly active <a href="https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/solar-cycles/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar cycle</a>. 



Some eruptions were so powerful that they triggered radio blackouts in the US in June. As we are heading toward the peak of an approximately 11-year cycle of solar activity, more spectacular displays might be on the horizon.



Experts at <a href="https://earthsky.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSky</a> noted on September 26, “Sun activity is back to low, but we saw filament eruptions all over the solar disk, particularly in the northeast and northwest. These filaments hurled ejecta into space, and we await the results of specialist analysis to determine if a component of those blasts is coming our way.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-red-auroras-expected">More red auroras expected</h2>



Aurora enthusiasts are indeed in eager anticipation for more of these celestial ballets in the sky, a vivid reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our universe. This extraordinary display of red auroras, historically perceived by some as ominous harbingers of war or tragedy, today unites people in wonder, illuminating the skies with its rare and ethereal beauty.



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Red auroras, the "Holy grail of northern lights," ignited the skies this week

This week, the world bore witness to a spectacular celestial...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

As you might assume, a new gorilla appearing in the mountains is going to attract some attention. Unsurprisingly, the troop&#8217;s dominant male noticed the visitor and came over to check it out. Photo credit: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

Alpha Male

Once on the ground in Africa, the team headed into a sanctuary where they knew gorillas could be found. They set up the camera and, before long, its powers of disguise were put to the test. Photo credit: Murray Close/Getty Images