Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Tropical Storm Francine moving across the Gulf of Mexico on the afternoon of September 10, 2024. 



Just hours after the photo was captured by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-21 satellite, the storm intensified into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/">hurricane</a> strength.



By September 11, Francine had become a Category 2 hurricane, reaching wind speeds of 100 miles per hour. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storms-fueled-by-rising-ocean-temperatures">Storms fueled by rising ocean temperatures</h2>



“Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) are a fair predictor of the readiness of the ocean to fuel and sustain storms. Meteorologists generally agree that SSTs should be above 82 degrees Fahrenheit to sustain and intensify hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153309/francine-bears-down-on-louisiana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“During the time of Francine’s development on September 8 to 10, temperatures in the southwestern Gulf were several degrees above that threshold and slightly above the 2003-2014 average for those dates, according to data from the Multiscale Ultrahigh Resolution Sea Surface Temperature (MUR SST) project.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-hurricane-francine">Impacts of Hurricane Francine</h2>



Louisiana was hit hardest by Francine, with coastal areas experiencing life-threatening storm surges up to 10 feet, heavy rainfall, and significant flooding. In Terrebonne Parish, where Francine made landfall, more than 200,000 residents lost power.&nbsp;



Southern regions of Texas also experienced heavy rainfall and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>. Despite some weakening as Francine moved inland, Mississippi and other parts of the Gulf Coast still experienced flash flooding and strong winds as the system degraded into a tropical depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season">2024 Atlantic hurricane season</h2>



The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has been notably active, but with an unusual break in activity leading up to Hurricane Francine.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-start-for-storms">Early start for storms</h3>



The season officially began on June 1, 2024. By early September, there had been five named storms, including three hurricanes, with one reaching Category 5 status - Hurricane Beryl in July.&nbsp;



Beryl set an early-season record as it intensified rapidly due to exceptionally warm sea surface <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-calm">Surprising calm</h3>



While the early part of the season saw significant activity, including Beryl's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-causes-the-rapid-intensification-of-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explosive growth</a>, the basin has experienced a surprising calm since mid-August. 



From August 12 to September 3, there was no tropical activity, marking the quietest stretch in over 50 years. Experts attribute this inactivity to several factors, including cooling waters in parts of the Atlantic and shifts in atmospheric patterns over Africa that disrupted storm formation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-ahead">What's ahead</h3>



Looking ahead, forecasts are cautious but not pessimistic. Despite the quiet period, researchers still expect more activity, with potential for further storm development through September.



Predictions are pointing to up to 14 named storms - seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes - by the end of the 2024 season.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hurricanes-in-the-gulf-of-mexico-nbsp">Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico&nbsp;</h2>



The location of the Gulf of Mexico makes it a hotspot for hurricane development and landfall. Warm sea surface temperatures, especially in late summer and early fall, provide the energy needed for these storms to grow in intensity.&nbsp;



When atmospheric conditions such as low wind shear and high moisture are favorable, hurricanes can rapidly intensify, becoming major threats to coastal regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-little-time-for-preparation-nbsp">Little time for preparation&nbsp;</h3>



The Gulf of Mexico's geography also means that hurricanes have a relatively short distance to travel before making landfall, often allowing little time for preparation.&nbsp;



Communities in coastal states like Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are frequently in the path of these storms.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastating-impacts">Devastating impacts</h3>



Over the years, hurricanes like Katrina, Harvey, and Ida have highlighted the devastating impacts, from storm surges and flooding to wind damage and disruption of infrastructure.&nbsp;



Due to the Gulf's importance as an economic hub, especially for oil production and shipping, hurricanes can also have significant economic repercussions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change">Climate change</h3>



The region's vulnerability to hurricanes is compounded by climate change, which has led to warmer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-ocean-heating-signals-alarm-for-a-3c-warmer-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a> and more intense storms. 



Predictions suggest that while the overall number of hurricanes may not increase, the number of major hurricanes (Category 3 and above) could rise. This will make the Gulf Coast an even more dangerous area during hurricane season, which typically lasts from June to November.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Hurricane Francine makes landfall in Louisiana 

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features an incredible new image of the Crab Nebula in bright neon colors. 



“The unusual image was produced by combining data from telescopes spanning nearly the entire electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>. 



Colored in red, the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) provided information about the nebula gathered in the radio regime.



NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope took infrared images, which appear yellow, while the NASA/ESA <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-captures-another-cosmic-masterpiece-in-galaxy-ngc-2217/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> Space Telescope provided images made in optical wavelengths, colored in green.&nbsp;



Blue colors represent ultraviolet observations made by ESA’s XMM-Newton telescope, and the purple colors are X-ray radiation data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-crab-nebula-nbsp">About the Crab Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Crab Nebula, located in the constellation Taurus, contains the remnants of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova explosion</a> first observed on Earth in 1054 AD. This explosion was recorded by Chinese astronomers and possibly by Native American rock art.&nbsp;



The nebula spans about 11 light-years across and lies approximately 6,500 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-crab-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studied objects</a> in the sky, largely due to its status as a bright and dynamic supernova remnant.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crab-pulsar">The Crab Pulsar</h2>



The Crab Nebula contains a pulsar at its center, which is a rapidly rotating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slow-spinning-neutron-star-completely-defies-our-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a> that emits pulses of radiation. This pulsar, known as the Crab Pulsar, spins about 30 times per second and is a significant source of gamma rays and other forms of high-energy radiation.&nbsp;



The nebula itself is a complex structure of filaments and synchrotron radiation. The filaments are remnants of the original star's outer layers, while the synchrotron radiation emerges from electrons spiraling in the magnetic fields produced by the pulsar.



“Surrounding the pulsar lies a mix of material; some of it was originally expelled from the star before it went supernova, and the rest was ejected during the explosion itself,” explained ESA.&nbsp;



“Fast-moving winds of particles fly off from the neutron star, energizing the dust and gas around it. These different layers and intricacies of the nebula can be observed in all of the different wavelengths of light.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crab-nebula-observation-nbsp">Crab Nebula observation&nbsp;</h2>



Throughout its history, the Crab Nebula has provided critical insights into the processes of stellar death, the behavior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pulsars-are-helping-astronomers-pinpoint-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pulsars</a>, and the mechanics of supernova remnants.&nbsp;



Its continuous observation has revealed changes over time, such as the expansion of its filaments and variations in its brightness, offering a dynamic laboratory for astrophysical studies.



Overall, the Crab Nebula is a highly energetic and object, providing valuable insights into the processes following a supernova explosion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-nebulae">Fascinating facts about nebulae</h2>



Nebulae are some of the most breathtaking and intriguing structures in the universe. They are vast clouds of gas and dust, often considered stellar nurseries where new stars are born. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-of-nebulae">Colors of nebulae </h3>



One of the most fascinating aspects of nebulae is their ability to glow in different colors. This occurs because they either reflect the light of nearby stars or emit light due to the ionization of gases within them, particularly hydrogen. 



Some nebulae, like the famous Orion Nebula, are visible to the naked eye and serve as one of the nearest regions of active star formation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae">Planetary nebulae </h3>



Stars are born in dense regions of nebulae, and when they die, some will expel their outer layers, creating stunning structures known as planetary nebulae. The colorful clouds left behind can shine brightly for thousands of years. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-size">Massive size</h3>



Another amazing fact is that some nebulae are so vast that light can take years to travel from one side to the other, stretching across hundreds of light-years.



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



Perhaps even more mind-boggling is the fact that nebulae are the remnants of previous generations of stars. Supernova explosions of massive stars can create these glowing clouds of gas and dust, seeding the cosmos with the elements necessary for the formation of new stars and planets.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, G. Dubner (IAFE, CONICET-University of Buenos Aires) et al.; A. Loll et al.; T. Temim et al.; F. Seward et al.; VLA/NRAO/AUI/NSF; Chandra/CXC; Spitzer/JPL-Caltech; XMM-Newton/ESA; and Hubble/STScI



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Crab Nebula: The brilliant remains of a massive star explosion

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features wildfires in the state of Mato Grosso in Brazil. These fires have been some of the most devastating in recent history.&nbsp;



The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission on September 9, 2024. “The infrared signal acquired by the mission’s multispectral instrument allows the extent of the burned areas to be seen and highlights where the fires were still active on the date of acquisition,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brazil-fires-of-2024">Brazil fires of 2024</h2>



2024 has shaped up to be one of Brazil's most intense fire seasons. The country is facing its worst drought since national measurements began, which has fueled a surge in wildfires across critical regions like the Amazon, the Pantanal wetlands, and the Cerrado savanna.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-amazon">The Amazon</h3>



By September 2024, Brazil had already recorded nearly 160,000 fires - the highest number since 2010. In the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-environmental-gains-in-the-amazon/">Amazon</a>, the first half of the year saw the most wildfires in 20 years, with fire activity up by 40% compared to previous record years.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-deforestation-nbsp">Climate change and deforestation&nbsp;</h3>



Climate change and human-driven deforestation are worsening the situation. The combination of extreme drought, slash-and-burn agriculture, and the ongoing degradation of forests has created ideal conditions for fire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outbreaks</a> to spread uncontrollably. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fires-in-the-pantanal-nbsp">Fires in the Pantanal&nbsp;</h2>



Regions like the Pantanal have been especially hard-hit, with large portions of the biome burned earlier than usual, long before the peak of fire season.



The fires have significantly impacted the fragile ecosystem of the Pantanal, which is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands.&nbsp;



Between August 1 and 27, over 3,800 fires were recorded in the Pantanal, marking an alarming increase compared to the previous year.&nbsp;



These fires have led to severe damage to local wildlife, with hundreds of animals, including jaguars and anteaters, suffering from burns. Firefighters have been mobilized, but the scale of the fires and the vast, difficult-to-access areas have made containment efforts challenging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irreversible-impacts-on-biodiversity">Irreversible impacts on biodiversity</h2>



Furthermore, the fires have released toxic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoke</a> that has spread across Brazil, affecting cities as far as São Paulo and Brasília. The use of satellite imagery from the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission has been crucial in monitoring the active fires and the extent of burned areas. 



Environmentalists are warning that the destruction of native vegetation and animal habitats could have long-term, irreversible effects on the region’s biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-wildfires">Climate change and wildfires</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-attribute-extreme-heat-and-wildfires-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> and wildfires are deeply interconnected. As the Earth's climate warms due to the increase in greenhouse gases, many regions around the world are experiencing hotter, drier conditions. 



These changes create the perfect environment for wildfires to ignite and spread. Warmer temperatures dry out vegetation, making forests and grasslands more flammable.&nbsp;



When a spark - whether from a lightning strike, a human activity, or another source - hits this dry vegetation, fires can erupt rapidly and become difficult to control.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longer-fire-seasons">Longer fire seasons</h3>



In addition, changing weather patterns have led to longer fire seasons in many parts of the world. Areas that were once too wet or cool to experience frequent fires are now seeing them more often.&nbsp;



For example, the Arctic and subarctic regions, including parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-siberia-are-a-growing-global-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Siberia</a> and Alaska, have experienced unusually intense wildfires in recent years, partly due to warming temperatures and thawing permafrost.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-severity">Fire severity</h3>



Climate change also affects the severity of fires. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to more extreme weather events such as thunderstorms, which can generate lightning and ignite fires.&nbsp;



Furthermore, prolonged droughts caused by changing rainfall patterns make forests more susceptible to large, destructive wildfires. Once a fire starts, the hot, dry conditions fuel its rapid spread, often overwhelming firefighting efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reinforcing-feedback-loop">Reinforcing feedback loop</h2>



The aftermath of wildfires further exacerbates climate change. When forests burn, they release large amounts of carbon dioxide stored in trees and soil into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.&nbsp;



This creates a feedback loop, where more fires lead to more carbon emissions, which in turn accelerate climate change, making future fires more likely and more intense. As climate change continues to progress, wildfires are expected to become more frequent, larger, and more destructive across many parts of the world.



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Brazil's devastating 2024 fire season rages on

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a 9.5-mile section of Pangong Lake on the western end of the Tibetan Plateau. The image was captured on by a crew member onboard the International Space Station. 



“In this winter scene, a sheet of cracked ice tops part of the lake,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “On the left side, open water appears blue. Shallow water offshore of a delta, formed by a small, winding river, appears green."



"Parallel lines along the coastlines of bays are visible in the high-resolution version of this image. These lines indicate raised beaches, which formed in the past when lake levels were higher.”



NASA pointed out that several roads cut across the landscape, including one with switchbacks that ascends a steep slope. "These roads facilitate tourist travel from both India and China.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-birds-at-pangong-lake-nbsp">Migratory birds at Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake and its surroundings are home to numerous bird species, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/migratory-birds-burn-unexpected-amounts-of-protein/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a>. Visitors can spot various waterfowl and waders that are rarely seen elsewhere.



“During the summer, species such as bar-headed geese and Brahminy ducks attract bird watchers to the lake, which is a major breeding ground for migrating birds,” said NASA.



Pangong Lake is one of the few places in India where the endangered black-necked crane is found during its breeding season. 



Ruddy shelduck and brown-headed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gulls-are-shifting-their-habitats-to-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gulls</a> are also frequently spotted around the lake. The ruddy shelduck is known for its striking orange-brown body and creamy white head, while the brown-headed gulls are often seen flying or swimming in the lake.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pangong-lake-nbsp">Pangong Lake&nbsp;</h2>



Pangong Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-are-rising-unexpectedly-fast-on-the-tibetan-plateau/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, extending from India to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. It is renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and dramatic setting, with the lake lying at an elevation of about 4,350 meters.



One of the most distinctive features of Pangong Lake is its changing colors, ranging from shades of blue to green and even red, influenced by the sky's reflection and the lake's mineral content.



This saline water lake is approximately 134 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide at its broadest point, despite its considerable size, it's relatively shallow.&nbsp;



The lake gained additional popularity after being featured in several Indian films, most notably the Bollywood hit "3 Idiots." Its remote location requires a permit for visitors, especially due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control between India and China. 



Despite the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding its location, Pangong Lake remains a favorite among tourists for its unparalleled natural beauty and serene environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-altitude-lakes">High-altitude lakes</h2>



High-altitude lakes are unique bodies of water found at elevations typically above 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in mountain ranges like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>, Andes, and Rockies. 



These lakes are formed either by glacial activity, where glaciers erode the earth to create depressions that fill with melted snow and rainwater, or when natural dams created by landslides or moraines trap water in valleys.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environments">Extreme environments</h3>



The conditions at high altitudes make these lakes distinct in several ways. The climate is typically colder and harsher, with significant temperature variations between day and night. 



This extreme environment affects both the physical characteristics of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> and the types of ecosystems they support. For example, due to lower atmospheric pressure, the boiling point of water is reduced, which can affect the type of life that can survive in these regions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-habitats">Critical habitats</h3>



Biologically, high-altitude lakes often have limited biodiversity because only certain types of plants and animals can tolerate the cold temperatures and lower oxygen levels in the water. 



Despite this, these lakes are crucial habitats for some unique species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They also serve as important indicators of climate change, as variations in their water levels and temperatures can reflect environmental shifts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-high-altitude-lakes">Significance of high-altitude lakes </h3>



Lakes at high altitudes are often clear and pristine, due to the low density of human populations in these areas and minimal industrial activity, making them significant for ecological studies and attractive for tourism. 



However, they are sensitive ecosystems, and increased tourist activity brings challenges like pollution and habitat disruption.



High-altitude lakes are not only beautiful and scientifically significant but also hold cultural importance for local communities, often considered sacred and associated with historical and spiritual significance.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Pangong Lake in the Himalayas

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Webb Images features an extraordinary view of Uranus, the seventh planet from the sun in our solar system. 



The photo reveals the rings, moons, and extreme seasons of the ice giant Uranus in unprecedented detail.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-north-polar-cap-nbsp">Dynamic north polar cap&nbsp;</h2>



“The Webb image exquisitely captures Uranus’s seasonal north polar cap, including the bright, white, inner cap and the dark lane in the bottom of the polar cap,” noted NASA.



Unlike Earth, where polar ice caps are formed by the freezing of water, Uranus's polar caps are thought to be primarily composed of a dense concentration of haze in the atmosphere.&nbsp;



The polar cap's haze is likely composed of methane particles. Methane in Uranus's atmosphere condenses into ice particles, which then create a thick haze that scatters sunlight, giving the polar cap its distinct bright appearance in visible and infrared light.



The polar cap is dynamic and changes over time. It becomes more prominent during the summer season of each pole. As Uranus moves along its orbit, the cap's appearance transforms, with the haze becoming thicker and brighter when the pole is in continuous sunlight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-zeta-ring-nbsp">The Zeta ring&nbsp;</h2>



The inner and outer rings of Uranus are visible in the image, including Zeta - the innermost ring which is the faintest and most difficult to observe.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-photo-of-uranus-and-its-rings-and-moons-captured-by-the-webb-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rings of Uranus</a> are primarily composed of narrow bands of particles, likely made of water ice mixed with a dark material. These rings are distinct from those of Saturn in that they are much darker and narrower.



The faintness and characteristics of the Zeta ring make it a subject of interest in studies related to the dynamics and composition of planetary ring systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moons-of-uranus-nbsp">Moons of Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



The <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/multimedia/images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> photo also features nine of the planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-four-uranus-moons-may-have-oceans-that-are-miles-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons</a>, which appear as blue dots surrounding the rings. 



“Clockwise starting at 2 o’clock, they are: Rosalind, Puck, Belinda, Desdemona, Cressida, Bianca, Portia, Juliet, and Perdita. The orbits of these moons share the 98-degree tilt of their parent planet relative to the plane of the solar system,” noted NASA.



Uranus has 27 known moons, and they are divided into three main groups based on their orbits: the inner moons, the major moons, and the irregular moons.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-moon-ariel-may-have-a-hidden-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons</a> of Uranus are unique because they are named after characters from the works of William Shakespeare and Alexander Pope, rather than being named after figures from classical mythology, as is common for the moons of other planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ice-giant-uranus-nbsp">The ice giant Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



Uranus is classified as an "ice giant" because, unlike the gas giants Jupiter and Saturn, which are primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, Uranus has a significant proportion of "ices" in its composition.&nbsp;



In astronomical terms, ices refer to volatile substances like water, ammonia, and methane, which exist in solid or liquid forms at the low temperatures found in the outer solar system.



Uranus has a thick atmosphere of hydrogen and helium, but beneath that, it contains a large, dense mantle composed of these ices, along with rock and other heavier elements.&nbsp;



The term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diamond-rain-may-be-common-on-giant-icy-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice giant</a> differentiates Uranus (and Neptune, the other ice giant) from the larger gas giants, emphasizing the different chemical compositions and internal structures of these planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-uranus-nbsp">Climate of Uranus&nbsp;</h2>



Uranus has a unique and extreme climate, largely influenced by its unusual tilt, which causes the planet to rotate almost on its side. This tilt leads to extreme seasonal variations, with each pole experiencing 42 years of continuous sunlight followed by 42 years of darkness.&nbsp;



Even though it is closer to the sun than Neptune, Uranus is the coldest planet in the solar system, with temperatures plunging to as low as -224°C (-371°F). The reason for this is not fully understood, but it might be due to an internal heat distribution anomaly.



Despite these frigid conditions, Uranus experiences intense weather patterns, including powerful storms and winds that can reach speeds of up to 900 kilometers per hour. These winds blow in the same direction as the planet’s rotation and are some of the fastest in the solar system.



Storms on Uranus are driven by its internal heat and the interaction of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranus-is-more-gassy-less-icy-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmospheric gases</a>. Observations have shown that these storms can be quite large, sometimes comparable in size to the Earth, and can last for several years.&nbsp;



The planet’s extreme axial tilt also means that the storms and weather patterns are highly variable, depending on the season. During equinoxes, when the Sun is directly over the equator, Uranus exhibits more storm activity compared to when the poles are pointed towards the Sun or away from it.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-uranus">Observations of Uranus</h2>



“One day on Uranus is about 17 hours, so the planet’s rotation is relatively quick. This makes it supremely difficult for observatories with a sharp eye like Webb to capture one simple image of the entire planet - storms and other atmospheric features, and the planet’s moons, move visibly within minutes,” explained NASA.



“This image combines several longer and shorter exposures of this dynamic system to correct for those slight changes throughout the observing time.”



The first recorded observations of Uranus were made by John Flamsteed on December 13, 1690. However, Flamsteed mistakenly identified the planet as a star, which he named “34 Tauri."&nbsp;



It wasn't until March 13, 1781, that Uranus was officially identified as a planet by William Herschel. He initially thought he had discovered a comet, but further observations and calculations by other astronomers confirmed that it was a new planet, making Uranus the first planet discovered in modern history with the aid of a telescope.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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The ice giant Uranus in stunning detail

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Webb Images features...

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco. 



The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae-nbsp">Planetary nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.



“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.



“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the Cat’s Eye</h2>



“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”



According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”



Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;



Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;



In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.



Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;



One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;



Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;



The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;



The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



Finally, the Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study.&nbsp;



These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning for a significant geomagnetic solar storm. This event is expected to impact Earth on September 12, 2024, and continue through September 14, 2024. 



The storm is classified as a G3 or greater on the <a href="http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA space weather scale</a>, indicating moderate to strong effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-geomagnetic-solar-storms">Understanding geomagnetic solar storms</h2>



A geomagnetic storm occurs when solar activity, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections (CMEs), disturbs the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetic field</a>. 



These storms are driven by solar wind, a stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun. 



When these particles interact with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetic field</a>, they can cause various effects, from beautiful auroras to disruptions in power and communication systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-areas-and-impacts-expected">Areas and impacts expected</h2>



The primary areas affected will be regions located above 50 degrees geomagnetic latitude, which includes parts of Canada, Alaska, and northern Europe. However, the effects could reach further south depending on the storm's intensity.



Here’s what could happen during this event:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Power Systems: Voltage irregularities may occur, leading to potential disruptions or false alarms in power grids. Operators should be on high alert for unusual activity.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Satellites and Spacecraft: Satellites in low Earth orbit might experience increased drag and charging on their surfaces, potentially causing orientation problems or reduced lifespan.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>GPS and Navigation Systems: Satellite navigation (GPS) could face intermittent issues, such as loss of signal or increased error in positioning. This could affect not only personal GPS devices but also aviation and maritime operations.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Radio Communications: High-frequency (HF) radio communications might be unreliable, especially in polar regions, which could disrupt aviation, maritime, and emergency services relying on these frequencies.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Auroras: On a brighter note, the geomagnetic storm might <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auroras-are-a-visual-warning-of-shocks-to-earths-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">produce spectacular auroras</a>, probably visible in the southern regions of the United States.</li>
</ul>



<ol class="wp-block-list"></ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-current-solar-storm-activity-overview">Current solar storm activity overview</h2>



Over the past 24 hours, solar activity has been high, with a major X1.3 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-blasts-biggest-x-class-solar-flare-nineteen-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar flare detected</a> from an unnumbered region on the Sun's southeast limb. 



This flare was accompanied by multiple radio bursts, signaling intense solar storm activity. Additionally, several medium-sized (M-class) flares were reported from other active regions on the Sun.



The solar activity is expected to remain at moderate levels, with a slight chance of another strong flare (X-class) from September 12 to 14.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-particles-and-solar-wind">Energetic particles and solar wind</h2>



The flux of high-energy electrons (greater than 2 MeV) remains at moderate levels, while the proton flux is trending towards normal. 



However, there is a slight chance of increased proton flux reaching the minor threshold level from September 12 to 14.



Recent data suggests that two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coronal Mass Ejections</a> (CMEs), from September 8 and 10, have reached Earth. 



An initial shock was detected around 2:54 AM UTC, causing the solar wind speed to rise from around 350 km/s to over 520 km/s. This increase could lead to prolonged geomagnetic disturbances.



Elevated solar wind conditions are expected to continue through September 13, with an additional enhancement likely around September 14 due to another CME from September 11.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-to-expect-in-the-coming-days">What to expect in the coming days</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Geomagnetic Solar Storm Conditions: The geomagnetic field is currently fluctuating between quiet and active levels. However, moderate geomagnetic storms (G2 level) have already been recorded and could escalate further.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Storm Forecast: Conditions are expected to remain unsettled to stormy through September 13, 2024 with another period of heightened activity possible on September 14 due to the arrival of the latest CME.</li>
</ul>



<ol class="wp-block-list"></ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-staying-prepared-during-a-solar-storm">Staying prepared during a solar storm</h2>



Geomagnetic storms can impact various sectors, including aviation, navigation, satellite operations, and power systems. Here are a few ways to stay prepared:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>For Power Companies: Monitor systems closely for voltage irregularities and ensure backup systems are ready.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>For Satellite Operators: Be prepared for increased drag on low Earth orbit satellites and potential surface charging effects.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>For Travelers and Emergency Responders: Be aware of potential GPS inaccuracies and HF radio communication issues.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>For the Public: Enjoy the auroras if you’re in a location where they are visible, but also stay informed through local news or weather channels for updates on potential disruptions.</li>
</ul>



Stay tuned to Earth.com and the <a href="http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center</a> for real-time updates and alerts on the ongoing space weather conditions. 



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NOAA Warning: Strong solar storm headed to Earth, auroras expected

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a...

The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to an astonishing array of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. Many of these species are restricted to specific regions, but the reasons behind this have long puzzled scientists. 



Now, a new international study, led by the <a href="https://www.ceh.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Center for Ecology &amp; Hydrology</a> (UKCEH), offers fresh insights into the Amazon's evolution during the last Ice Age, between 2.6 million and 11,700 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragile-ecosystems-of-the-amazon">Fragile ecosystems of the Amazon</h2>



The research challenges long-standing beliefs about how the Amazon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-and-the-looming-threat-of-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> responded to climatic changes during the Ice Age. 



The findings suggest that the Amazon is far more sensitive to environmental fluctuations than previously thought, providing yet another reminder of the dangers posed by rapid, human-induced climate change and large-scale land use shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-refuge-for-specialized-species">Interconnected refuge for specialized species</h2>



For years, scientists have debated whether, during the Ice Age, the Amazon was divided into isolated “forest islands” known as refugia, or whether the forest remained continuous, similar to its current expanse.&nbsp;



The UKCEH-led study, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44185-024-00056-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Biodiversity</a>, offers a new perspective: while forest islands existed, they were connected by woodlands and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazons-rainforests-are-at-risk-of-transforming-into-dry-grassy-savannas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">savannas</a>. This allowed certain adaptable animals to move between different habitats, while acting as a barrier for more specialized species that rely on specific ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-of-the-amazon">Biodiversity of the Amazon</h2>



The vegetation and climate of a region play a key role in natural evolution. As environmental conditions changed, animals across the Amazon adapted, leading to the emergence of new species in different areas. This process explains why the Amazon hosts such a diverse range of life today.



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate changes</a> in the past played a huge role in shaping how the Amazon forest looked and where it grew. Similar changes are coming very soon and much faster,” said lead author Douglas Kelley, a land surface modeler at UKCEH. 



“Previously, fluctuations in climate took thousands of years to happen, enabling plants and animals to adapt, but now significant global warming is happening within decades due to increasing human-driven greenhouse gas emissions.”



The research team included scientists from institutions such as the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ontario Forest Research Institute</a>, Kiel University in Germany, the UK’s Met Office, and the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-biodiversity-of-the-ice-age-nbsp">Amazon biodiversity of the Ice Age&nbsp;</h2>



By combining advanced climate and vegetation modeling with fossilized pollen records from sediment, the experts were able to create detailed predictions of the types of plants that thrived in the Amazon during the Ice Age. Previous research had largely relied on single techniques, but this study incorporated a broader range of data and methods.



Crucially, the researchers considered the gaps between areas where fossilized pollen has been found and analyzed whether animals could have moved between these habitats.&nbsp;



Computer and statistical models predicted what types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-vegetation-database-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> likely existed in these in-between areas, verifying the team's predictions with the plant types recorded in adjacent regions.



During the Ice Age, the Amazon’s forest cover was dramatically reduced due to the colder, drier climate. Lower levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, along with dry conditions, limited tree growth and led to more frequent wildfires, which destroyed large portions of the forest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-nature-of-the-research-nbsp">Innovative nature of the research&nbsp;</h2>



Study co-author Dr. Hiromitsu Sato of the Ontario Forest Research Institute highlighted the innovative nature of the team's approach.&nbsp;



“We believe our study, involving integrated modeling methods, provides the best evidence to date on the origins of the rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-impact-of-fire-on-amazon-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> in the Amazon,” said Dr. Sato.



“Using land surface modeling to provide crucial information on biodiversity is a new and very exciting innovation that could be used in future to investigate the history of species where there is a shortage of data.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-amazon-diversity-of-the-past">Understanding Amazon diversity of the past</h2>



Looking ahead, the researchers plan to explore how various groups of Amazonian species - such as monkeys, frogs, antbirds, butterflies, and lianas - diverged over thousands of years in response to changing environments.&nbsp;



By continuing to investigate the intricate relationship between climate, vegetation, and species evolution, the team hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the Amazon’s past - and how this knowledge can inform efforts to protect its future in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.



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How the Amazon became a biodiversity hotspot

The Amazon rainforest is a unique biodiversity hotspot, home to...

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next volcanic eruption. For millions of people living near active volcanoes, such a tool would be invaluable. 



Interestingly, some crystals formed deep within the Earth can indeed help forecast volcanic activity. These crystals, which are created as molten rock travels from beneath the Earth's surface, hold vital clues about past eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-hold-a-record-of-eruptions-nbsp">Crystals hold a record of eruptions&nbsp;</h2>



By employing advanced scientific methods, researchers can extract a hidden record from these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-turning-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crystals</a>, uncovering the reasons, locations, and timings of previous eruptions. This historical information can help interpret early signs of volcanic unrest, such as earthquakes, which often signal magma moving toward the surface.&nbsp;



In a new column in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01509-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>, Teresa Ubide, a geoscientist at the <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Queensland</a>, discusses how we are getting closer to having crystal balls - at least for volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crystals-formed-by-cooling-magma">Crystals formed by cooling magma</h2>



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a>, the extremely hot molten rock that powers eruptions, forms tens of kilometers below Earth's surface in the mantle, it begins a complex journey upward.&nbsp;



During this trip, magma may pause in reservoirs and travel through a winding path before eventually erupting. As magma ascends, it cools, forming small crystals that can be carried to the surface during eruptions.



Once magma reaches the surface, it can either flow as lava or explode into fragmented particles known as pyroclasts. As these materials cool, they solidify into volcanic rocks, which preserve the crystals formed deep within the Earth. These crystals serve as “crystal balls,” preserving the memory of everything they experienced inside the volcano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-appearance-of-volcanic-crystals">Distinct appearance of volcanic crystals</h2>



The appearance of these crystals depends on their mineral composition. For instance, the green olivine found in Hawaiian lavas and the white plagioclase crystals in the Tweed volcano's lavas on the Queensland-New South Wales border are distinct examples.&nbsp;



However, one of the most critical minerals for studying volcanoes is clinopyroxene. This mineral produces shiny black crystals that hold essential information about the inner workings of volcanoes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-changes-within-the-crystals-nbsp">Chemical changes within the crystals&nbsp;</h2>



Clinopyroxene crystals may be as tiny as a grain of sand, but under a microscope, they reveal extraordinary details about volcanic activity. They grow in concentric zones, similar to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-largest-ever-solar-storm-discovered-through-tree-rings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree rings</a>, with each zone documenting changes in the magma environment within the volcano.&nbsp;



The outermost growth zone is particularly important, as it can indicate if an eruption was triggered by fresh magma rising from deep within the Earth.&nbsp;



By analyzing the chemical changes within these crystals, scientists can estimate how long it took for magma to reach the surface - information that could help predict future eruptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indications-of-potential-volcanic-eruptions">Indications of potential volcanic eruptions</h2>



These crystals sometimes grow with different compositions in various directions, a phenomenon called sector zoning, which resembles an hourglass inside the crystal.&nbsp;



Sector zoning provides further clues, suggesting that the magma underwent complex processes such as mixing with other magma, releasing gas, or rising quickly before an eruption.&nbsp;



By identifying these processes in the crystals, volcanologists can watch for similar signs at the surface, offering early indications of potential volcanic activity.



It’s also critical to identify where within the volcano these eruption triggers occur. This information can help determine if certain depths, where earthquakes or ground deformations occur, are particularly significant for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting an eruption</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pressure-conditions-during-crystal-formation-nbsp">Pressure conditions during crystal formation&nbsp;</h2>



The chemical makeup of clinopyroxene crystals also provides clues about the pressure conditions during their formation, which can be translated into the depth of magma storage below the surface.&nbsp;



Analyzing these chemical variations requires cutting-edge laboratory techniques, such as using lasers the width of a human hair or focusing intense synchrotron light from particle accelerators like the one in Melbourne, Australia.&nbsp;



These tools enable scientists to extract detailed information about the magma’s journey from the microscopic structures of the crystals.



Next time you hike near a volcano, whether it's in Hawai'i, Iceland, or the Glass House Mountains in Australia, look closely at the rocks for colorful specks. These tiny crystals are the keys to unlocking the history of the volcano - and they might also offer insights into its future.



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Crystals can help predict volcanic eruptions

Imagine having a crystal ball that could predict the next...

The world is racing against time, rapidly devouring resources that sustain life, and if we continue on our current trajectory, even basic living standards might become a luxury. But, there's hope for the Earth and its resources. 



A recent report suggests that we have the power to change the tide, provided we transform our economic systems and technologies, and adopt a more equitable resource management approach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-green-light-for-cities-and-businesses">Green light for cities and businesses</h2>



The research, conducted by an international team of scientists including those from The Australian National University (<a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANU</a>), makes a compelling case for cities and businesses to step up. 



The report, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, urges them to adopt the mantle of “stewards” of Earth’s critical resources. 



By demonstrating how to reduce their environmental impact, cities and businesses could play a vital role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-2024-the-tide-may-finally-be-turning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting the planet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-earth-s-resources">Protecting Earth's resources</h2>



The research, a product of the Earth Commission's first phase, involved more than 40 researchers from various disciplines worldwide. 



<a href="https://earthcommission.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Earth Commission</a>, founded in 2019, includes 18 globally respected scholars who provide interdisciplinary insights.



The report leans heavily on the findings of the Safe and Just Earth System Boundaries report published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06083-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> last year. 



This report unveiled a disturbing fact -- humanity has overstepped most of the crucial boundaries within which people and the planet can flourish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-change-in-earth-s-resources">Driving change in Earth's resources</h2>



Distinguished Professor Xuemei Bai from ANU, one of the three lead authors who led the working group on Translation, emphasized the pivotal role of companies and cities. 



According to her, these entities possess the necessary resources to effect sweeping changes and significantly lessen the strains on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our planet</a>.



"Companies and cities have a huge potential to make a difference, especially if they work towards the same goal, which is to ensure the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> can provide for everyone long-term," Professor Bai points out. 



She added that they are more adaptable than states and can set science-based goals that align with the research findings.



Her colleague, Professor Stuart Bunn from <a href="https://www.griffith.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Griffith University</a>, echoed her sentiments. He co-led a working group focusing on freshwater and nutrient pollution boundaries, another critical aspect of Earth's sustainability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-our-lifetime">Challenge of our lifetime</h2>



The research confirmed that our planet's resilience is under immense strain. However, it emphasized that it's still possible for humans to avoid the adverse effects of Earth's system change if we act urgently.



The way forward? Reducing inequalities in accessing and using critical resources like freshwater and nutrients. 



Alongside this, there needs to be fair sharing of responsibilities such as carbon emission reduction, combined with an economic and technological overhaul.



Without urgent transformations, the report warns that by 2050, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-just-experienced-its-hottest-day-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's climate</a> could deteriorate so much that there would be no "safe and just space" left.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-and-earth-s-resources">Sustainability and Earth's resources</h2>



Innovation stands as a cornerstone in the pursuit of sustainability, offering solutions that can bridge the gap between consumption and conservation. 



By harnessing advancements in technology, such as renewable energy, smart agriculture, and sustainable manufacturing practices, we can significantly reduce our ecological footprint. 



Universities, research institutions, and private companies are increasingly collaborating to develop cutting-edge solutions that not only address immediate environmental concerns but also create systems that can adapt to future challenges. 



This interconnected web of innovation empowers communities and industries to meet their needs while safeguarding our planet's resources for generations to come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-to-a-safe-and-just-space">Path to a "safe and just space"</h2>



To prevent this potential catastrophe, the researchers recommend a series of critical actions to save the Earth's resources. 



Primarily, policymakers, businesses, civil society, and communities need to collaborate to transform our economic system with policies and funding mechanisms that address inequality while reducing pressure on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-days-getting-longer-rotation-slows-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature and climate</a>.



Secondly, efficient and effective management, sharing, and usage of resources at all societal levels are fundamental. 



This includes tackling excessive consumption in some communities, which denies access to vital resources for the most needy.



Thirdly, investing in sustainable and affordable technologies that allow us to reduce resource usage is paramount in reopening the "safe and just space."



Here's the bottom line: sure, we're in deep water, but we're not drowning yet. This report is a lifeline, a blueprint for change, and a call to action. 



As daunting as the challenge might seem, we have the resources, the knowledge, and yes, the responsibility, to turn things around.



The report is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(24)00042-1/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet Planetary Health</a>.



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How cities and businesses can help save Earth and its resources

The world is racing against time, rapidly devouring resources that...

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above Japan held an astonishing variety of living microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, many of which are toxic to humans.



Not just the homegrown ones either. Some of these microbial stowaways traveled over 1,000 miles with the help of aerosols, originating from regions lush with fertilizers and pesticides.



This has launched the scientific world into a wave of questions about the journey of human, animal, and plant pathogens across vast geographical terrains, invisible to the naked eye. 



Leading this microbial exploration was the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (<a href="https://www.isglobal.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISGlobal</a>) with support from the Daniel Bravo Andreu Private Foundation (<a href="https://www.fundaciodanielbravo.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FPDBA</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-travel-in-the-air">Microbes travel in the air</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pathogens</a> hitching a ride on the wind isn’t unheard of. But the diversity of microbes that can survive at high altitudes, where conditions could give even an Everest mountaineer pause, is a fresh revelation.



“We know that above a certain point in the troposphere (called the planetary boundary layer), certain materials can be transported over long distances because the air in that region is isolated from the surface and there is less friction. But we did not suspect that viable microorganisms could be there also,” says&nbsp;Xavier Rodó, ICREA researcher at ISGlobal.



Rodó and his team carried out ten tropospheric flights to examine microbial diversity at high altitudes -- a significant jump from studies usually executed just a few meters above the ground or the ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-microbial-travel-path">Tracing the microbial travel path</h2>



Rodó and his international team boarded a Cessna aircraft and conducted air surveys above Japan, tracing wind currents from mainland Asia. 



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-deadly-microbes-travel-around-the-world-so-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transcontinental airways</a>, known as tropospheric bridges, connect air from distant parts of the world.



For context, think about air that lifts in mainland China and then descends over Tokyo, courtesy of typical winter weather conditions. 



A total of 22 aerosol filter samples were gathered during two periods (in February and April 2014), methodically analyzed for their chemical and biological composition.



Sequencing DNA from the samples, the team identified over 266 fungal and 305 bacterial genera associated with the aerosols. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-microbes-in-the-air">Types of microbes in the air</h2>



This microbial soup included potential pathogens for humans, animals, and plants -- familiar names like Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Haemophillus parainfluenzae, and several Staphylococcus species were among the bacterial mix.



The fungal factions included genera like Candida and Cladosporium, to name a couple.



“Surprisingly, the Micrococcus luteus strain isolated was resistant to multiple drugs, including carbapenems, glycopeptides, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole," says Sofya Podzniakova, co-first author of the study.



"Our findings suggest that antimicrobial resistance could spread over long distances via this previously unrecognized route", 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropospheric-travel-tunnel-of-air-microbes">Tropospheric travel tunnel of air microbes</h2>



If you're curious about the origin of these airborne pathogens, the answer could be right underneath our noses -- or rather, our feet.



The presence of elements such as zinc sulfate and potassium, usually found in fertilizers and pesticides, implies an agricultural source. A scenario quite consistent with the extensively farmed croplands in northeast China.



The high-altitude and ground samples from the days examined showed a striking similarity in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a>. A consequence of air descending from altitudes to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-activities-underground-revealed-by-new-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ground</a>, perhaps? 



The particle transport models simulated by Roger Curcoll, currently a researcher at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya -- BarcelonaTech (<a href="https://www.upc.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPC</a>), would certainly support this theory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-microbe-transport-study">New chapter in microbe transport study</h2>



The implications of this study are profoundly impactful. “Our findings uncover a rich and unprecedented diversity of microbes that are dispersed by wind currents thousands of kilometers away from their sources by intense tunnels of wind that form high in the troposphere,” Rodó emphasized.



“They represent a paradigm shift in our understanding of how human health can be affected by pathogens thriving in the environment, particularly in the air."



Though there's no direct trace yet linking the presence of known human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pandemic-looms-as-pathogens-move-from-wild-plants-to-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogens</a> in aerosols and health effects, the study affirms the pressing need for further exploration of air microbes and microbial pathogens' long-distance travel.



So, the next time you feel the wind against your face, remember, it has stories to tell -- tales of microbial hitchhikers scaling the heights of the troposphere and crossing continents. Globe-trotting pathogens show us how interconnected our world truly is, even in ways we can't see.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2404191121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Toxic microbes can travel thousands of miles through the air

Air samples collected at altitudes up to 2,000 miles above...

Whether your favorite pastime is cooking or solving crossword puzzles, your hobby may be doing more than just providing joy and relaxation. It turns out, the enchanting pursuits we so dearly cherish might be our secret weapons against the gradual cognitive decline associated with aging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hobbies-and-mystery-of-cognitive-aging">Hobbies and mystery of cognitive aging</h2>



Cognitive aging, an inescapable process that slowly chips away at our cognitive abilities as we age, is a matter of significance. 



It's certainly troubling to know that each year, around 10% of individuals demonstrating signs of mild cognitive impairment progress towards Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.



Now, it has been proposed that active participation in cognitively demanding activities could provide a shield against mental deterioration over time. But the extent to which these activities could delay <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pupil-size-reveals-hidden-cognitive-fatigue/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive</a> decline has been a riddle that has kept us guessing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-impairment-and-hobbies">Cognitive impairment and hobbies</h2>



In a recent study led by the Texas A&amp;M University School of Public Health, fresh perspectives have emerged. 



The research points out that older adults with mild cognitive impairment, who indulge regularly in high levels of activities such as word games and hobbies, show an improvement in memory, working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to their less active counterparts.



“Today, nearly six million people in the United States have dementia, and this number is projected to grow to about 14 million by 2060 - with minority populations affected the most,” said Dr. <a href="https://sph.tamu.edu/directory/kim.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Junhyoung “Paul” Kim</a>, an associate professor of health behavior at <a href="https://www.tamu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Texas A&amp;M</a>. “We sought to help fill the gap in our understanding of cognitive decline.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitively-stimulating-hobbies">Cognitively stimulating hobbies</h2>



Along with his colleagues from the <a href="https://www.usm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern Mississippi</a> and <a href="https://www.iu.edu/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indiana University</a>, Dr. Kim meticulously analyzed data relating to 5,932 participants who were 50 years or older in 2012. The individual showed signs of mild cognitive impairment, and were part of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) conducted from 2012 to 2020.



The researchers paid close attention to answers to seven questions that gauged the frequency of participants’ involvement in cognitively stimulating activities such as reading, game playing, and other hobbies. Their participation levels were divided into low, mid, and high, which is in line with standards adopted in previous studies.



“The participants with high-level engagement consistently showed advanced cognitive function levels throughout the study and maintained a similar level of cognitive abilities compared to the other groups,” said Dr. Kim.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-working-memory-attention-and-processing-speed">Working memory, attention, and processing speed</h2>



Those active in the high-level category demonstrated enhanced memory, working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to those in the mid- and low-level groups.



In addition, the mid-level group displayed higher levels of working memory, attention, and processing speed compared to the low-level participation group.



Dr. Kim and his team hope the results will encourage healthcare providers to recommend elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment to partake in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitively</a> stimulating activities, preferably three to four times a week.



“We also found significant differences in all three cognitive functions between years with a declining slope, but the differences between 2014 and the other years of the data set that were examined were not significant,” said Dr. Kim.



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



While the findings are encouraging, further research is needed to fully grasp the mechanisms behind hobbies and cognitive resilience.



Future research should investigate how different forms of activities distinctly influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-rate-of-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive functions</a> and whether certain demographics might respond better than others. 



Furthermore, conducting longitudinal studies across diverse cohorts could be helpful in applying these findings to larger segments of the population.



If you're interested and wish to incorporate more cognitively stimulating activities into your everyday routine, some achievable, enjoyable, and science-backed options are:



• Reading on a regular basis



• Engaging in word games



• Learning new skills



• Being social



• Exercising regularly



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-health-and-hobbies">Cognitive health and hobbies</h2>



Even though cognitive aging is a part of our life, a growing body of research suggests that we can take proactive steps to soften its impact. It seems that staying mentally active isn't just a way to pass time but a route to preserving our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-maps-help-the-brain-remember-places-and-paths/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive abilities</a> well into our golden years.



In conclusion, keeping our minds engaged as we age could potentially yield significant benefits for maintaining cognitive health. It's surprising to think that our leisure activities could wield such power.



So, the next time you pick up that crossword puzzle or captivating novel, remember - you're not simply killing time - you're boosting your brain health too.



The study is published in the <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41465-024-00293-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Cognitive Enhancement</a>. 



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Hobbies keep the brain sharp and slow cognitive aging

Whether your favorite pastime is cooking or solving crossword puzzles,...

Understanding the complexities of the infant brain is crucial to unlocking the mysteries of early cognitive development. 



By studying the brain of infants, experts gain key insights into how fundamental processes like learning, memory, and emotional regulation begin to form in the earliest stages of life.



Researchers are continually exploring new methods to observe how infants respond to their environment, from basic sensory experiences like hearing and seeing to more intricate brain processes. 



A revolutionary wearable brain imaging device developed by researchers from <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> and <a href="https://www.bbk.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birkbeck</a> now offers unprecedented insight into infant brain activity, revealing a clearer picture of neurodevelopment and paving the way for early interventions for neurodiverse conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-view-of-infant-brain-activity">Comprehensive view of infant brain activity</h2>



Unlike conventional neuroimaging techniques, this portable and harmless device uses light waves to measure neural activity across the entire surface of an infant's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nutrition-for-neurons-the-role-of-breast-milk-in-shaping-our-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. By providing real-time, non-invasive insights, the technology marks a significant leap in the field of pediatric neuroscience and neurodevelopmental research.



Dr. Liam Collins-Jones is the study's first author from UCL Medical Physics &amp; Biomedical Engineering. 



"Previously, we developed a wearable imaging approach that could map activity in specific areas of the brain. But this made it difficult to get a complete picture as we could only focus on one or two areas in isolation," noted Dr. Collins-Jones.



This latest iteration offers a comprehensive view of brain functions, revealing unexpected activity in the prefrontal cortex (the brain’s emotional processing hub) in response to social stimuli.



"The new method allows us to observe what’s happening across the whole outer brain surface underlying the scalp, which is a big step forward," said Dr. Collins-Jones.



This breakthrough could deepen our understanding of neurodevelopment during early childhood, offering insights into conditions like autism, dyslexia, and ADHD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leap-forward-in-neurodevelopment-studies">A leap forward in neurodevelopment studies</h2>



The wearable device was tested on 16 infants, aged five to seven months, as they engaged in different scenarios such as listening to actors sing nursery rhymes or observing motion-oriented toys.



The researchers observed localized brain activity in response to social stimuli, confirming earlier optical neuroimaging and MRI findings.



"This is the first time that differences in activity across such a wide area of the brain have been measured in babies using a wearable device," said Professor Emily Jones from Birkbeck. "With this, we should be able to see what’s happening in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/odors-influence-newborn-brain-growth-in-the-first-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">babies’ brains</a> as they play, learn, and interact with other people in a very natural way."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flexible-way-to-observe-brain-activity">Flexible way to observe brain activity</h2>



Traditional methods like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/post-covid-brain-changes-detected-by-advanced-mri-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MRI</a> scanning present significant limitations when studying infant brain activity. The subject must remain perfectly still for an extended period, making it particularly challenging with young children who are naturally more active and less likely to stay still.



This new wearable technology, based on high-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT), offers a more natural and flexible way to observe brain activity in real-world settings, allowing infants to move freely and interact with their surroundings without the restrictive environment of a scanner.



Dr. Rob Cooper is the study's senior author from UCL Medical Physics &amp; Biomedical Engineering.



"This device is a great example of academic research and commercial technological development working hand-in-hand," said Dr. Cooper.



The portable and affordable device offers exciting possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-advanced-brain-mapping-yet-reveals-how-we-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mapping the brain</a> and identifying neurodevelopmental conditions at an early stage. 



By capturing brain activity during natural interactions, this technology opens the door to more personalized early-life support for neurodiverse children.



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



The potential applications of this wearable brain imaging technology extend beyond early childhood neurodevelopment. 



As researchers continue to refine the device, it could eventually be used to monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultrasound-waves-can-enhance-mindfulness-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a> across various stages of life, including adolescence and adulthood. 



This opens up new possibilities for studying brain plasticity, mental health disorders, and the effects of early interventions on long-term cognitive and emotional well-being.



By expanding our understanding of how the brain develops in its earliest stages, this technology could pave the way for early intervention strategies that improve cognitive and emotional outcomes. 



The ultimate goal is to create a more personalized approach to supporting neurodiverse individuals, helping them thrive from infancy through adulthood.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://direct.mit.edu/imag/article/doi/10.1162/imag_a_00244/123636/Whole-head-high-density-diffuse-optical-tomography" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imaging Neuroscience</a>.



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Wearable imaging device reveals infant brain activity

Understanding the complexities of the infant brain is crucial to...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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.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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" 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.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



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.

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



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.

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



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...

It looked like an alien – with long tendrils coming off the main body.
It twitched and swayed in the shallow tide pool. Hunter had to show his parents. Maybe he had discovered a new species! It would turn out, however, that the little boy’s nature-knowledge would up saving his life. Photo Credit: YouTube/Animal File Facts

So Strange