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

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132, located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).



The Southern Ring Nebula is one of the more famous examples of planetary nebulae, often studied for its beauty and valuable insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-power-the-southern-ring-nebula">Stars power the Southern Ring Nebula </h2>



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> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star in visible light is actually a less massive companion, while the fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. This star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.



“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula. A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence. The pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Key characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The Southern Ring Nebula displays a complex structure with multiple layers of gas and dust. The outer shells of the nebula consist of hydrogen and other elements that were ejected from the dying star in previous stages of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>.&nbsp;These layers are illuminated by ultraviolet radiation from the central white dwarf.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coloration">Coloration</h3>



The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-shape">Size and shape</h3>



The nebula spans about half a light-year in diameter. Its intricate, symmetrical structure provides valuable insights into the late stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>, especially the processes involved in the shedding of outer layers by dying stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotlights-from-the-bright-star">Spotlights from the bright star</h2>



ESA noted that hundreds of straight, brightly-lit lines pierce through the rings of gas and dust. “These ‘spotlights’ emanate from the bright star and stream through holes in the nebula like sunlight through gaps in a cloud.



“But not all of the starlight can escape. The density of the central region, set off in teal, is reflected by how transparent or opaque it is. Areas that are a deeper teal indicate that the gas and dust are denser - and light is unable to break free.”



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



According to ESA, this is not only a crisp image of a planetary nebula - it also shows us objects in the vast distances of space behind it. The transparent red sections of the nebula are filled with distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-have-hearts-and-lungs-that-help-them-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.



“Look for the bright angled line at the upper left. It is not starlight - it is a faraway galaxy seen edge-on. Distant spirals, of many shapes and colors, also dot the scene. Those that are farthest away - or very dusty - are small and red,” said ESA.



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



Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).



Vela is notable for containing several interesting astronomical features. One of its most prominent stars is Gamma Velorum, also known as Suhail or Regor, which is a bright, massive star system consisting of multiple stars.&nbsp;



The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star formed from the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.



Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months, though it is partially visible in the Northern Hemisphere as well. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Harrat Khaybar, one of the largest volcanic fields in Saudi Arabia. This extensive lava field, which covers 5,400 square-miles, was formed by eruptions over the last five million years.



“According to the Smithsonian’s Global Volcanism Program, the volcanic field is still active, and eight lava flows are less than 1,500 years old. The last known eruption was reported in Harrat Khaybar in the 7th century,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



A couple of the youngest volcanic vents in Harrat Khaybar can be seen in this <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/152000/152839/harratkhaybar_oli2_20240425_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a>, which was captured by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-qidr-nbsp">Jabal Qidr&nbsp;</h2>



“These volcanoes resulted from different eruptive styles: Jabal Qidr is a stratovolcano (or composite cone); Jabal Abyad is a felsic dome; and Jabal Bayda is a tuff cone,” explained NASA.



“Jabal Qidr, in the northern part of the volcanic field, is built from several generations of dark, basaltic lava flows. Qidr has a 400-meter-diameter summit crater and exhibits the textbook cone shape of a stratovolcano. This is the only stratovolcano in the harrats of western Saudi Arabia.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-abyad-nbsp">Jabal Abyad&nbsp;</h2>



Visible in the center of the image, Jabal Abyad was formed from a more viscous, silica-rich lava classified as rhyolite, noted NASA.



"While Jabal Qidr exhibits the cone shape of a stratovolcano, Jabal Abyad is a lava dome - a rounded mass of thicker, more solidified lava flows. Abyad’s dome reaches over 2,090 meters above sea level, the highest elevation amongst all the surrounding harrats.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-bayda-nbsp">Jabal Bayda&nbsp;</h2>



To the west of Jabal Abyad is Jabal Bayda, a tuff cone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-aspect-of-volcanic-eruptions-observed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> with a much larger summit crater measuring 1,400 meters in diameter, stated NASA.



"Tuff cones form from the interaction of rising magma with water. When heated rapidly by lava, water turns to steam and expands violently, fragmenting the lava into plumes of very fine grains of ash.”



In Arabic, abyad and bayda are the masculine and feminine words for “white.” The lighter color of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mount-erebus-breaks-through-the-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is associated with lava that has high silica content. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-harrat-khaybar-nbsp">More about Harrat Khaybar&nbsp;</h2>



One of the notable features of Harrat Khaybar is its striking contrast between the black basaltic lava fields and white-colored rhyolitic lava domes. This contrast creates a visually stunning terrain, with some areas of the field resembling a lunar or Martian landscape.



Harrat Khaybar is part of a larger series of harrats, or lava fields, which are prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula. The largest of these volcanic fields is Harrat Rahat, which stretches over 20,000 square kilometers.



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in Harrat Khaybar began millions of years ago and has continued into relatively recent times, with the last known eruptions occurring several thousand years ago.



The field is also notable for its archaeological sites, including ancient rock art, which provide insights into the early human habitation of the area. 



The harsh environment of Harrat Khaybar has shaped both the natural ecosystem and the human activities throughout its history, making it a place of interest not only for volcanologists but also for archaeologists and ecologists.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-activity-in-saudi-arabia">Volcanic activity in Saudi Arabia </h2>



Saudi Arabia, despite being more commonly associated with vast deserts, has a surprising history of volcanic activity.



Volcanic eruptions have occurred over the past few thousand years, with the most recent major eruption occurring in the year 1256. That eruption, from a series of fissures, sent lava flowing towards the city of Medina, but it stopped before reaching the urban area. Historical records document the panic that followed, as people feared the destruction of the city.



While there hasn't been a significant eruption since, there are still signs of geothermal activity, such as hot springs and occasional minor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-music-will-yellowstones-seismic-activity-produce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic activity</a>. 



Researchers monitor the volcanic fields for any signs of future eruptions, though none are currently expected. Despite the long periods of dormancy, Saudi Arabia's volcanic landscape remains an important part of the country's natural history.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Harrat Khaybar: An active lava field in Saudi Arabia

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Wapiti Fire in central Idaho, which was ignited by lightning on July 24, 2024.&nbsp;



More than a month later, the fire continues to devastate areas across the Boise, Sawtooth, and Salmon-Challis National Forests.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-fire-activity">Explosive fire activity</h2>



In its first month, the Wapiti Fire burned about 9,000 acres. It has now grown twelve times larger, burning more than 108,000 acres.



“Fire activity ramped up in late August, expanding its footprint to over 100,000 acres (400 square kilometers) by early September. The Wapiti fire, as well as the Middle Fork Complex fires burning nearby, have spurred evacuation orders and highway and public lands closures,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153274/wildland-fires-scorch-idaho-wilderness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



By September 3rd, the Wapiti Fire was 2% contained, with firefighting efforts heavily focused on protecting nearby structures and communities, particularly around Stanley and Lowman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Unpredictable behavior of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



The fire's behavior has been unpredictable, intensifying during periods of unstable weather, especially when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thunderstorms-are-becoming-more-intense-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thunderstorms</a> with strong winds have passed through. This has made containment difficult and forced the evacuation of multiple areas, including the communities along Idaho Highway 21.&nbsp;



Efforts to manage the fire include using air tankers to drop fire retardant and creating containment lines to prevent further spread. However, the fire continues to threaten homes and critical infrastructure, with many structures already lost. 



Local authorities have emphasized the importance of residents being prepared for evacuation, advising them to gather essential documents and possessions in advance.



The fire has led to the closure of vast sections of national forest land, with restrictions expected to remain in place until at least the end of the year, depending on the fire's progression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensity-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Intensity of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



According to media reports, the intensity of the Wapiti Fire can be largely attributed to certain types of vegetation in the area that rapidly fuel fire. The main fuel in this case is timber in forests that already have “60-80% tree mortality from insects and disease,” 



To make matters worse, the Wapiti Fire is burning in areas that are difficult to reach. The fire is located in steep and rugged terrain within the Boise National Forest that is challenging for firefighting crews to access. The difficult terrain and limited access routes have greatly complicated firefighting efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-caused-wildfires-nbsp">Lightning-caused wildfires&nbsp;</h2>



Lightning is often responsible for igniting large, destructive fires, particularly in remote and forested areas. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-siberia-are-a-growing-global-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> occur when a lightning strike, typically from dry thunderstorms, ignites dry vegetation like grass, leaves, or trees.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors">Contributing factors</h3>



The intensity and frequency of these wildfires are influenced by several factors, including the amount of available dry fuel, the local climate, and the specific characteristics of the lightning strike itself, such as its intensity and duration.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-western-united-states-nbsp">Western United States&nbsp;</h3>



In some regions, like the western United States, lightning is responsible for the majority of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-environmental-gains-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms are more common. These fires can spread rapidly, driven by winds and the availability of dry fuel, making them difficult to control.&nbsp;



Lightning-caused wildfires can also lead to the formation of large fire complexes, where multiple fires merge into one, further complicating firefighting efforts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role">Ecological role</h3>



Interestingly, while lightning-caused wildfires can be destructive, they also play a crucial role in certain ecosystems. These fires can help to clear out dead vegetation, promote new growth, and maintain the health of fire-adapted ecosystems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-fire-weather">The future of fire weather</h2>



The future of fire weather is deeply concerning, as climate change is expected to significantly worsen the conditions that lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-climate-paradox">The climate paradox</h2>



As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere will hold more moisture, but paradoxically, many regions will experience more intense and prolonged droughts. This will dry out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>, turning forests and grasslands into tinderboxes ready to ignite.&nbsp;



Additionally, higher temperatures will increase the likelihood of extreme heat waves, which can further desiccate landscapes and create the perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly and uncontrollably.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-precipitation-patterns-nbsp">Changing precipitation patterns&nbsp;</h3>



Another factor influencing fire weather is changing precipitation patterns. While some areas might experience more rain, others will become drier, with rain increasingly falling in intense, short bursts rather than steady, prolonged periods. This leads to rapid runoff, reducing soil moisture and leaving the ground dry and more susceptible to fire. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-events-nbsp">Wind events&nbsp;</h3>



The intensity and frequency of wind events, driven by shifting atmospheric patterns, are also expected to increase, which can fan the flames of wildfires, causing them to spread more quickly and making them harder to control.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-fire-seasons">Extended fire seasons</h3>



In the future, fire seasons will likely become longer, and fires will grow in both size and intensity. Regions that have historically been less prone to wildfires may begin to see more frequent fire events as their climates change.&nbsp;



The combination of these factors will make managing wildfires more challenging, putting greater pressure on firefighting resources and leading to increased risks to human life, property, and ecosystems. 



The future of fire weather is a harsh reminder of the broader impacts of climate change, and the urgent need to adapt to our new reality.



The Wapiti Fire image was captured on August 31, 2024 by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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

Wapiti Fire in Idaho: Unpredictable and difficult to contain

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>.&nbsp;



NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies, which includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies.&nbsp;



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-star-formation">Process of star formation</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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NGC 604 is home to hundreds of hot, massive stars

Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes across the globe, and North America is no exception. 



As weather extremes become more frequent, the impact on ecosystems and human infrastructure is becoming impossible to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-fuels-extreme-weather">Climate change fuels extreme weather</h2>



According to new research from <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>, extreme weather patterns - severe droughts in the American Southwest and Mexico, alongside more intense wet years in the Northeast - are the modern norm. The analysis also suggests these seasonal patterns will become more severe in the future.



The study highlights that the central United States can expect bigger swings between pluvials, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-events-in-the-northeast-are-set-to-increase-by-over-50-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-rainfall</a> years, and drier summers through the rest of this century. 



The findings, based on precipitation data, historical tree rings, and climate models stretching from 850 to 2100, suggest that climate change has pushed North America's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> toward extremes unseen before the industrial era.



"It’s very much a tale of the Southwest versus the Northeast for most of the seasons," said study senior author Professor James Stagge. 



"Mexico and the American Southwest tend to get drier across more or less all seasons, whereas we’re seeing in the Northeast – and Ohio is included in that - a trend toward wetter, particularly in the winter and early spring."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissecting-the-data">Dissecting the data</h2>



The study doesn’t just document the present-day shift but traces the pre-industrial patterns to predict future extremes. 



“The scale of the change we’re seeing now and into the future is dramatically larger in many areas than any natural climate variability we saw prior,” said study lead author Kyungmin Sung.



This variability is particularly concerning as it introduces unpredictability to weather management. 



"You might be going from, say, this year’s drought being really bad, and in five years, we might see the wettest pluvial we’ve had in a while," noted Professor Stagge. "That variability is concerning because it changes how we might need to manage water to prepare for more extremes in both ways."



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



The research team merged data from five sources: two modern precipitation datasets, tree ring reconstructions, and two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weather-in-dry-regions-isnt-behaving-as-climate-models-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a>. 



"A benefit of having very different types of data is they can fill in each other’s gaps," said Professor Stagge. "We consider trends to be significant only when they’re showing up across multiple datasets - so that increases our confidence."



This holistic approach paints a clear picture of the future: the Southwest will continue to experience worsening droughts, while the Northeast will face wetter winters and springs. 



At the same time, the central U.S. will see more dramatic swings between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expect-more-extreme-wet-and-dry-seasons-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wet and dry</a> periods.



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



The implications of these findings reach beyond weather prediction - they affect sectors from agriculture to city planning.



"In the Southwest, you’re going to have less water to deal with, and if you’re managing a farm in the middle of the country, you might be seeing wider swings between droughts and pluvials," noted Professor Stagge.



The study, published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GL107400" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>, emphasizes the urgency of proactive planning to deal with the ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. 



"Certainly, we’d like to arrest further climate change, but it takes a long time to turn that ship. In the meantime, we should be planning on where we’re headed to decrease impacts on people, the economy, and the environment," said Professor Stagge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-climate-change">Adapting to climate change</h2>



As the data points to worsening weather extremes, the urgency to address climate change grows ever more pressing. 



The combination of drier droughts and wetter pluvials presents significant challenges not only for managing water resources but also for sustaining agricultural productivity and protecting infrastructure. 



These shifts in weather patterns can strain ecosystems, create economic burdens, and increase the vulnerability of communities across North America.



While curbing climate change is a global priority, local and regional efforts to adapt to these emerging conditions are equally important. Preparing for the inevitable changes is critical to mitigating the impacts on people and industries alike. 



From investing in sustainable water management practices to rethinking urban planning and agricultural strategies, adaptation must be part of the solution.



By taking proactive steps now, governments, businesses, and communities can lessen the blow of future climate extremes, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for the next generations.



The research was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, and the Ohio Supercomputer Center..



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Droughts and extreme weather events are escalating

Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes...

Thermogenesis, the ability of plants to generate their own heat, is a remarkable survival tool that has evolved in certain plant species. 



While commonly associated with animals, this process plays a crucial role in helping plants like cycads and select flowering varieties attract pollinators. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-heat-attracts-pollinators">Plant heat attracts pollinators</h2>



By producing heat, these plants can volatilize their fragrances more effectively, dispersing chemical compounds that enhance their chances of attracting a wide variety of pollinators, including beetles, flies, and thrips. 



This thermal boost not only makes the plants more appealing to insects but also plays a crucial role in the timing and success of pollination.



Additionally, this internal heat supports the development and growth of reproductive organs, such as flowers and pollen tubes, especially in cooler climates where warmth is scarce, giving thermogenic plants a distinct evolutionary advantage over non-thermogenic species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermogenesis-and-plant-evolution">Thermogenesis and plant evolution</h2>



Tracking heat generation in plants is challenging because thermogenesis cannot be directly preserved in the fossil record. This forces scientists to rely on indirect evidence, such as fossilized anatomical structures that may have supported heat production. 



Without physical traces of heat itself, researchers must study plant morphology and compare ancient plants with modern thermogenic species to infer how this process may have operated in the past. 



By examining anatomical similarities between ancient and present-day thermogenic plants, scientists can better understand how thermogenesis played a role in plant evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-heat-and-evolutionary-success">Plant heat and evolutionary success</h2>



An intriguing study was recently conducted by a group of researchers at the Botanical Institute of Barcelona (IBB), in a collaborative effort with several esteemed institutions including the <a href="https://www.ucm.es/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Complutense University of Madrid</a>, the Geological and Mining Institute of Spain (IGME–CSIC), the <a href="https://www.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Institution</a>, the <a href="https://web.ub.edu/en/web/ub/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Barcelona</a>, and the Royal Botanic Gardens of Sydney.



The experts diligently examined the characteristics of present-day thermogenic plants and compared them with fossil plant lineages.



The research led to a surprising conclusion. "Our findings suggest that thermogenesis in plants is an older phenomenon than previously thought," said David Peris, a researcher at the IBB.



According to Peris, thermogenesis may have played a pivotal role in the evolutionary success of seed and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-of-life-created-for-flowering-plants-using-400-million-specimens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a>, as well as their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hornets-are-the-most-important-pollinators-for-some-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, as far back as 200 million years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-evolutionary-edge">An evolutionary edge</h2>



The presence of female structures maturing before male structures in thermogenic plants to prevent self-fertilization is a fascinating trait that is closely associated with early lines of divergence among flowering plants.



In fact, evidence of independent closing of stamens and carpels in floral chambers exists in fossil plants that could have trapped pollinating insects, hinting at their thermogenic past.



The researchers discovered that large reproductive structures, such as perianths or cones, could also indicate thermogenesis, thanks to their heat-retaining abilities.



These structures suggest that thermogenesis could have given certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-survived-the-dinosaur-extinction-by-pulling-nitrogen-from-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mesozoic plants</a> a competitive edge over non-thermogenic equivalents more than 200 million years ago. 



This heat-generating capacity, coupled with other attractive traits like flower color and fragrance emission, could have been instrumental in their reproductive success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversification-of-plants-and-pollinators">Diversification of plants and pollinators </h2>



"Thermogenesis in plants is not just a botanical curiosity," said study co-author Iván Pérez-Lorenzo. He noted that this unique ability has strongly influenced the success of two diverse and populated groups: insects and flowering plants.



The findings open up exciting avenues for further inquiry into how such interactions may have influenced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-evolved-in-two-dramatic-bursts-250-million-years-apart/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversification of plants</a> and their pollinators throughout evolutionary history.



There is much more to learn from the world of plants, and this study has provided us with a fascinating glimpse into the world of thermogenesis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-in-a-changing-climate">Plants in a changing climate</h2>



The discovery of thermogenesis as a key factor in early plant survival offers exciting insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-evolution-drastically-changed-earths-composition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolutionary journey of plants</a>. 



As scientists continue to investigate how heat generation has shaped plant-pollinator relationships over millions of years, new questions arise about its role in future evolutionary pathways. 



Could thermogenesis have been a pivotal trait that allowed certain species to outcompete others in harsh environments? 



Understanding this process may reveal how plants have adapted and diversified in response to changing climates and ecological pressures throughout history, and how they may continue to evolve in the face of future environmental shifts.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41477-024-01775-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Plants</a>.



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Some plants generate heat to attract pollinators

Thermogenesis, the ability of plants to generate their own heat,...

Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have an unexpected link to a widespread environmental issue - light pollution.



As artificial illumination continues to fill our cities and suburbs, researchers are now exploring how constant exposure to nighttime light may influence public health. 



While streetlights and neon signs enhance safety and urban beauty, this constant glow could have hidden consequences, potentially contributing to an increased risk of Alzheimer's.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-pollution-and-alzheimer-s-disease">Light pollution and Alzheimer's disease</h2>



In the US, several states have implemented measures to mitigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>. Yet, some parts of the country continue to bathe in high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-exposure-is-extremely-harmful-to-our-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial night light</a>.



Suspecting a possible connection between this incessant light exposure and public health, researchers embarked on a study to investigate the association between outdoor light pollution and Alzheimer's disease prevalence.



"We show that in the US there is a positive association between AD prevalence and exposure to light at night, particularly in those under the age of 65," noted study lead author Dr. Robin Voigt-Zuwala, a professor at <a href="https://www.rush.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rush University Medical Center</a>.



"Nightly light pollution - a modifiable environmental factor - may be an important risk factor for Alzheimer's disease."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-higher-the-intensity-the-greater-the-risk">The higher the intensity, the greater the risk?</h2>



The investigative team scrutinized light pollution maps of the continental United States and considered various medical data known to influence Alzheimer's disease risk. 



They produced data reflecting the nighttime light intensity for each state, categorizing them into five groups based on the intensity level.



Among individuals aged 65 and older, the findings revealed a stronger correlation between Alzheimer's disease prevalence and nightly light pollution than with other established disease indicators such as alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease, depression, and obesity.



While other risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke did display a higher association with Alzheimer's disease, the impact of light pollution was undeniable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-vulnerability-in-younger-people">Increased vulnerability in younger people</h2>



Interestingly, this association was even more pronounced in the population under 65, indicating a higher sensitivity to the effects of nighttime light exposure. The reason behind this age-related sensitivity to light pollution remains unclear.



"Certain genotypes, which influence early-onset AD, impact the response to biological stressors which could account for increased vulnerability to the effects of nighttime light exposure," said Voigt-Zuwala.



"Additionally, younger people are more likely to live in urban areas and have lifestyles that may increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-light-during-sleep-can-damage-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure to light at night</a>."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-and-mitigation-techniques">Prevention and mitigation techniques</h2>



As a result of their findings, the researchers advocate for increased public awareness regarding the potential effects of light pollution.



"Awareness of the association should empower people – particularly those with risk factors for Alzheimer's disease – to make easy lifestyle changes,” said Voigt-Zuwala. Changes may include the use of blackout curtains or sleeping with eye masks, especially for those residing in high light pollution areas.



Moreover, internal light exposure would be as significant in this discourse. Although not examined in this study, the researchers pointed out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-effects-of-artificial-blue-light-remain-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue light</a>, in particular, disrupts sleep. 



The usage of blue light filters, transition to warm light, and installation of dimmers could effectively reduce light exposure within households.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-and-the-path-forward">Alzheimer's and the path forward</h2>



The team acknowledges that their study is based on a subsection of the U.S. population and that not everyone resides in areas with high light pollution throughout their lives. 



The experts noted that further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between nighttime light exposure and Alzheimer's disease.



As research continues to uncover the potential connections between Alzheimer's and light pollution, experts emphasize the importance of taking preventative steps. 



Communities can work to reduce outdoor light pollution by using shielded streetlights and promoting darker night skies, which may help minimize the risk of Alzheimer's disease in the population. 



On an individual level, simple adjustments such as reducing blue light exposure in the evening and prioritizing quality sleep can be vital in protecting long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-is-a-powerful-tool-to-boost-brain-health-and-overall-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. 



By addressing both external and internal sources of light pollution, there is hope for mitigating one of the many factors linked to Alzheimer's disease.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2024.1378498/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Neuroscience</a>.



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Light pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have...

Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great Salt Lake? As the lake shrinks and exposes more of its hidden wonders, one aspect has been grabbing the attention of scientists lately: the dust released from the dried lakebed.



This is not ordinary dust. It carries certain elements that have been raising eyebrows and, more importantly, concerns. Scientists from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a> have investigated what pollutants may be lurking within these airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drying-lake-beds-are-a-major-source-of-harmful-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediments</a>.



And what do their findings suggest? These sediments could potentially be more harmful than other significant dust sources that affect air quality in the Wasatch Front.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-composition-of-the-salt-lake-dust">Composition of the Salt Lake dust</h2>



What exactly is in these sediments? When these particles become airborne or aerosolized, they exhibit higher levels of reactivity and bioavailability than sediments from other places upwind of Utah's major population center. 



Chemical analysis has helped uncover the presence of numerous metals and levels of arsenic and lithium exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's soil residential regional screening levels.



“You’re talking about a very large dust source located next to a very large population, and you’ve got elevated levels of manganese, iron, copper and lead. Lead is a concern for developmental reasons,” said senior author Kerry Kelly, a professor of chemical engineering.



“Manganese, iron and copper, these are transition metals and are known to be very irritating to your lungs. Once you get irritation, that can lead to this whole inflammatory response. And that’s part of the problem with particulate matter and it’s adverse health effects like asthma.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmful-dust-pollution">Harmful dust pollution </h2>



The Great Salt Lake is not a solitary entity; it receives runoff from a considerable drainage basin spread across northern Utah and parts of three other states.



Metals, both from natural sources and human disturbances, are pushed into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-drying-up-causing-major-dust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> from inflows or atmospheric deposition, accumulating in the lakebed. 



This potential for harmful dust pollution has caught the attention of Utah state officials, resulting in a set of priority goals to tackle the issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-impacts-of-the-dust">Social impacts of the dust</h2>



Dr. Sara Grineski, a professor of sociology, led another recent study which revealed that dust from the lakebed disproportionately impacts disadvantaged neighborhoods in Salt Lake County. It's not just about environmental impacts, but social ones too.



In a separate forthcoming study by U biologist Michael Werner’s lab, a different team of researchers dug into the history of the lakebed. They surveyed levels of toxic metals in submerged lakebed sediments from the lake's record low-water year of 2021 and noticed changes from Utah's mining era years. 



While concentrations of some metals, such as lead and zinc, appear to have decreased, mercury levels have strangely increased.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-are-the-pollutants-going">Where are the pollutants going?</h2>



However, here's a twist in the tale. Experts cannot conclusively say if these pollutants are being swept into populated areas during high-wind events. Why? The answer lies in the lack of sufficient monitoring equipment to capture the dust downwind of the lake.



Researchers in Dr. Kelly’s lab, who specialize in air quality, set out to unravel this mystery. They teamed up with colleagues in the U’s College of Science.



The experts analyzed sediment samples from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-the-great-salt-lake-is-a-matter-of-environmental-justice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Salt Lake</a>, comparing them with sediments from other dust sources in the Great Basin. Interestingly, only a small fraction of the exposed lakebed, around 9%, emits dust from areas where the lakebed crusts have been disturbed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-level-of-salt-lake-dust">Threat level of Salt Lake dust</h2>



So, should we be worried? The initial findings suggest that the broken layers of the lakebed reset fairly easily, implying that the threat to air quality might not be as severe as previously assumed.



However, the latest study brings forth a new perspective. It explores the dust's "oxidative potential," a measure of its ability to react with oxygen. "When you breathe in something that’s really reactive, it’s going to interact with the cells inside your lungs and cause damage," explained Dr. Kelly.



In the lab, the team aerosolized the sediment samples to isolate particles small enough to inhale and lodge in lung tissue. Further analyses showed high oxidative potential associated with certain metals, including copper, manganese, iron, and aluminum.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1352231024004035?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Environment</a>.



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Great Salt Lake is shrinking and releasing harmful dust

Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great...

Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate change, whether we like it or not, is affecting everything around us. Birds from North America are quite alarmingly showing us how they're feeling the heat rise. 



Their response? Well, birds have three main tricks up their wings: trotting towards the north, soaring up to higher altitudes, and tweaking their annual breeding cycles, or what we scientists prefer calling - making phenological changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-s-eye-view-of-climate-change">Bird's eye view of climate change</h2>



Researchers at UCLA set out to study the issue from all angles. They have spent 27 years examining data from 311 land-based species to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> deal with climate change. 



The results were startling, especially when they saw how these species were using all three strategies collectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-but-at-what-pace">Adaptation, but at what pace?</h2>



While our avian friends seem to be taking a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar approach to change</a> - moving away from the heat, they aren't adapting fast enough. 



According to the study, the adjustments made by these creatures barely cover a mere one-third of what's necessary to cope with the speed at which our world is warming up.



The research was led by Monte Neate-Clegg, an ecologist at <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> who sheds some light on the findings. "The amount of temperature tracking in birds that we've seen, 64% is due to phenology tracking alone," he said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-breeding-due-to-climate-change">Early breeding due to climate change</h2>



On average, our feathered friends have started breeding 0.08 days earlier. That's their way of dealing with a rise of one degree Celsius.&nbsp;



The experts believe this is easier and more efficient than moving 1,000 kilometers up north or climbing a few hundred meters in elevation every time there's a change in their habitat.



"This is a response we've hypothesized before, particularly for birds from California," said Morgan Tingley, a UCLA professor of ecology and evolutionary biology. 



"But now, for the first time, we can see how animals are using multiple ways simultaneously to adapt to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and shifting the timing of key life events may just be one of the first and easiest options."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-moving-in-climate-change">Birds moving in climate change</h2>



The study found that on average, birds are moving a small distance spatially: just 1.1 kilometers per year towards the north and 1.2 meters per year upward. But of course, such averages always hide surprising variations.



Here are the odd ones out in the flock: the lesser goldfinch is on a faster track north and breeding earlier than most. And then we have the black phoebe, oddly shifting south and downward, probably due to urbanization, precipitation changes, and habitat availability. 



So, while some are keeping up with the temperature changes completely, others are partially doing so, and some are even moving counterintuitively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-habitat-in-bird-adaptation">The role of habitat in bird adaptation</h2>



Habitat plays a crucial role in how birds adapt to climate change. The availability of suitable environments can either facilitate or hinder their ability to move northward or gain altitude. 



For example, many birds are limited by urban development, which fragments their habitats and can make it challenging for them to find new nesting grounds. 



Additionally, alterations in vegetation due to changing temperatures affect food sources, thereby impacting breeding success. As habitats shift, so too must birds, but this transition is fraught with obstacles, leading to concerns about future population viability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-a-double-edged-sword">Human impact: A double-edged sword</h2>



While birds are showing remarkable adaptability in response to climate change, human actions often complicate these efforts. Factors such as deforestation, pollution, and climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions exacerbate the challenges that birds face. 



Notably, habitat conservation and restoration efforts can bolster bird populations and provide the necessary resources they need to thrive amid changes. 



Yet, these initiatives must be implemented swiftly and on a large scale, as the rate of environmental change continues to outpace the natural adaptive capacities of avian species. 



It is imperative that we take action to mitigate these effects and support birds in their struggle for survival in an increasingly hostile environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-for-survival-a-lesson-from-birds">Adapting for survival: A lesson from birds</h2>



How birds adapt to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-species-are-shifting-their-habitats-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a>&nbsp;is crucial to their survival, and it is equally essential for our conservation efforts.&nbsp;



The fact that birds are altering their breeding season timings means that we need to shift our focus not just to protect their habitats but also consider the timing of ecological events and how individual species are changing.



"In order to best target our conservation efforts, we need to know how species are and are not adapting to ongoing climate change," noted Tingley. "While shifting the timing of nesting may help <a href="https://phys.org/tags/birds/">birds</a> in the short term, if they do not move in the long term, greater conservation efforts are likely to be necessary."



So, our winged friends are giving us not just a bird's eye view of the ongoing climate change but also a peek into their world of adaptation under pressure. Can we, as humans, take a leaf, or rather, a feather out of their book? 



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02536-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Birds are moving north and breeding earlier in a changing climate

Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate...

When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated setting, we probably think of expensive cities or secluded beach resorts. The depths of the Pacific Ocean don't cross our mind. Yet, that is exactly where some northern elephant seals dine out, according to a new study led by University of Victoria researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-mysterious-mammal">Observing the mysterious mammal</h2>



Published in PLOS ONE, this study provides a unique, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented visual</a> insight into the rarely observed behaviors of these elusive mammals in the deep sea.



The focus? Their advanced feeding techniques, prey choices, and even their rest habits. 



At least eight male elephant seals, aged between 4 and 7, were observed using ONC’s observatory equipment during multiple visits to the research site situated 645 meters deep in Barkley Canyon. The observations were recorded between 2022 and 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprise-visitors">Surprise visitors</h2>



Researchers from the UVic, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar (ICM-CSIC), a Barcelona-based research institute, and ONC were initially studying the impact of light and bait on fish and invertebrate behavior. Little did they know, these clever seals had their eyes on the prize.



After reviewing camera footage, acoustic images, and sound data, the seals were discovered as unexpected visitors. The researchers surmised that the seals linked the sonar noise with potential prey, effectively considering it a "dinner bell."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-tactics-of-elephant-seals">Hunting tactics of elephant seals</h2>



"The seals appeared to use this sound to locate an area with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-hunting-fishing-connect-humans-with-nature-or-reinforce-superiority-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey</a> and may take advantage of fish disturbed by the camera lights, particularly targeting sablefish, their preferred meal, as seen in the video footage," said Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, the lead author of the publication.



Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, a visiting scientist at <a href="https://www.uvic.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UVic</a>'s biology department and assistant scientist at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, conducted this research with her colleagues, including Francis Juanes, a UVic biology professor and Liber Ero Chair for Fisheries Research, and adjunct professor Rodney Rountree. 



Other notable contributors were ICM-CSIC's Jacopo Aguzzi and ONC's Fabio De Leo Cabrera.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-observations-of-elephant-seals">Unique observations of elephant seals</h2>



The findings suggest that the seals quickly adapted to use the infrastructure for more efficient foraging. In a span of 10 days, four seals were repeatedly seen visiting the research site.



"They returned often to feed more efficiently," said Frouin-Mouy. "We became familiar with these seals, even distinguishing between their frequencies of visits and observed habits. We even ended up naming them after members of The Beach Boys."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discoveries">Remarkable discoveries </h2>



Their favorite dish? Actively swimming sablefish, ignoring all the other stationary or drifting prey options. The seals were even recorded on camera and hydrophone bobbing their heads and producing low-frequency sounds in pursuit of their prey.



In another fascinating revelation, these adolescent male northern elephant seals were found to be power napping on the ocean floor at Barkley Canyon - a sight never-before-seen.



The real-time monitoring capacity of NEPTUNE observatory played a crucial role in this discovery. It allowed the research team to adjust the use of ONC's underwater instrument - initially deployed for the fish study - to detect the presence of seals and observe them for nearly a year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-elephant-seal-behavior">Significance of elephant seal behavior</h2>



Understanding the foraging behaviour of northern elephant seals is not merely an academic exercise; it holds significant ecological implications. 



As apex predators of the deep sea, these seals play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Their prey choices, particularly for sablefish, can influence population dynamics within the ecosystem, thereby affecting the species that inhabit these underwater environments. 



Moreover, insights gained from monitoring their behaviour provide invaluable data on how marine species may adapt to changes in their environment, which is increasingly under threat from climate change and human activity.



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



The revelations from this study pave the way for further exploration of the habits and habitats of marine mammals. 



Future research could investigate not only the elephant seals but also the broader impacts of environmental changes on other deep-sea species.



By utilizing advanced technology similar to that employed in this study, researchers can delve deeper into marine behaviors and interactions, enriching our understanding of ocean dynamics.



This could ultimately inform conservation strategies aimed at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting these delicate ecosystems</a>, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephant-seals-beyond-the-ocean-floor">Elephant seals beyond the ocean floor</h2>



Northern elephant seal colonies can be found from as far north as Alaska to as south as the Baja Peninsula. Typically, tracking of the seals' movements is done using bio-tags, or primarily on land. 



This research provides a rare look into their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fascinating-mating-behaviors-of-leopard-seals-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater behavior</a>, unlocking a new perspective on these fascinating creatures that share our world.



"Understanding the underwater lives of marine mammals is still limited by our inability to fully study the animal’s behavior beneath the water, notably the tactics used by apex predators, such as pinnipeds, to capture their prey," noted the researchers.



"Animal-borne tags have provided an opportunity to gain new insights into the diving and foraging behavior of pinnipeds."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0308461" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Elephant seals use sonar signals to dine deep underwater

When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated...

A breakthrough filtration system developed by MIT researchers offers hope for removing harmful "forever chemicals" - dangerous pollutants that have plagued water supplies globally for decades.



These long-lasting pollutants, known as PFAS, persist in the environment and have contaminated water sources worldwide.



A recent study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control found that 98% of people tested had detectable levels of PFAS in their bloodstream, highlighting the severity of the contamination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-troublesome-scale-of-pfas-contamination">The troublesome scale of PFAS contamination</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skiers-are-spreading-pfas-forever-chemicals-around-the-worlds-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PFAS chemicals</a> are present in a wide array of products, including cosmetics, food packaging, water-resistant clothing, firefighting foams, and nonstick cookware. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 57,000 sites are contaminated with these chemicals.



According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the cost of remediation to meet regulations limiting PFAS to less than 7 parts per trillion in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-reveals-new-evidence-of-forever-chemicals-in-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinking water</a> could reach $1.5 billion annually.



Contamination by PFAS and similar compounds “is actually a very big deal, and current solutions may only partially resolve this problem very efficiently or economically,” noted Yilin Zhang, a postdoctoral researcher at MIT. “That’s why we came up with this protein and cellulose-based, fully natural solution."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-accidental-discovery">An accidental discovery </h2>



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a>, led by Zhang and Professor Benedetto Marelli, have developed a new filtration material made from natural silk and cellulose.



This hybrid material shows great promise in removing persistent PFAS compounds and heavy metals from water while offering antimicrobial properties to reduce filter fouling. 



The research is published in ACS Nano and includes contributions from MIT postdocs Hui Sun, Meng Li, graduate student Maxwell Kalinowski, and recent graduate Yunteng Cao, who is now a postdoc at Yale.



“We came to the project by chance,” noted Marelli. Initially, the technology was developed for an unrelated purpose - to create a labeling system to counter the spread of counterfeit seeds. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hybrid-material-with-distinct-properties">Hybrid material with distinct properties </h2>



The team devised a method of processing silk proteins into uniform nanoscale crystals, known as nanofibrils, using an environmentally friendly water-based method at room temperature.



Zhang hypothesized that these silk nanofibrils might be effective at filtering contaminants, but early attempts with silk alone were unsuccessful. The team decided to try adding cellulose, a readily available material derived from agricultural wood pulp waste. 



By integrating cellulose into the silk-based nanofibrils and tuning the electrical charge, they developed a hybrid material with distinct properties, including remarkable contaminant removal and antimicrobial capabilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-contender-in-water-filtration">A new contender in water filtration</h2>



“These materials can really compete with the current standard materials in water filtration when it comes to extracting metal ions and these emerging contaminants, and they can also outperform some of them currently,” noted Marelli.



Lab tests demonstrated that the hybrid materials can remove contaminants more effectively than standard materials like activated carbon.



The team’s findings could serve as a proof of concept for larger-scale applications. As Zhang suggests, the material could first be used as a point-of-use filter, such as an attachment for kitchen faucets. 



Eventually, it could be scaled up for municipal water filtration, pending thorough testing to ensure no risks of <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/detecting-mercury-contamination-with-the-tap-of-a-finger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contamination</a>.



One significant advantage of the material, said Zhang, is that both silk and cellulose are food-grade substances, making harmful contamination highly unlikely. 



“Most of the normal materials available today are focusing on one class of contaminants or solving single problems,” noted Zhang. “I think we are among the first to address all of these simultaneously.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-water-filtration-systems">Advanced water filtration systems</h2>



While this discovery is a promising first step, the team is already working on improving the material’s durability and exploring alternative protein sources to ensure scalability. 



Enhancing the material’s lifespan and resistance to wear will be crucial for its widespread application in real-world <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/destroying-microplastics-tap-water-surprisingly-simple-solution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water filtration systems</a>, especially in regions with heavily <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-drinking-water-often-contains-unsafe-levels-of-toxic-contaminants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contaminated water</a> sources.



According to Marelli, while silk proteins can be sourced as a byproduct of the silk textile industry, alternatives may offer lower-cost, more abundant solutions for global water filtration needs.



Therefore, alternatives such as plant-based or synthetic proteins are being considered, which could offer lower-cost, more abundant solutions for global water filtration needs without compromising performance or sustainability. 



These alternative materials could also help expand the technology's reach, ensuring that even regions with fewer resources can benefit from advanced filtration systems.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.4c07409" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Nano</a>.



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New filtration system removes 'forever chemicals' from water

A breakthrough filtration system developed by MIT researchers offers hope...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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...

So the material had a long history and was pretty commonplace. When the colonizers then came to America, it shouldn’t be surprising that they used whitewash to keep everything fresh and clean. And to this day, farmhouses bear coatings that, even if they aren’t necessarily themselves whitewash, are supposed to remind onlookers of it. Photo Credit: enremdvm/Instagram

Lovely looks

Mind you, whitewash in the distant past wasn’t necessarily the same stuff as U.S. farmers later used, though lime was often part of the mix. King Tut’s tomb was daubed with a wash mixed with milk, but elsewhere people used flour, oyster shells or eggs. There were no hard and fast rules for making the white liquid, then, except of course the resulting color. Photo Credit: mipmapgames/Pixabay