Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a satellite view of retreating glaciers in Alaska, where meltwater is rapidly expanding glacial lakes. 



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The retreat of glaciers is considered one of the clearest indicators of climate change.&nbsp;Some glaciers are retreating at unprecedented rates, indicating accelerating climate impacts.



The image was captured on August 4, 2024 by the Landsat 8 satellite.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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Retreating glaciers and expanding meltwater lakes in Alaska

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

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 1333, a reflection nebula located in the Perseus molecular cloud about 960 light-years away from Earth. The photo is a mosaic of images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.



“Webb’s superb sensitivity allows astronomers to investigate young objects with extremely low masses. Some of the faintest ‘stars’ in the picture are in fact newly born free-floating brown dwarfs with masses comparable to those of giant planets,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



The same cluster was featured in the 33rd anniversary image of the Hubble Space Telescope in April 2023.&nbsp;



According to ESA, Hubble’s image just scratched the surface of this region, because clouds of dust obscure much of the star formation process. 



"Observing with larger aperture and in the infrared part of the spectrum, Webb is capable of peering through the dusty veil to reveal newborn stars, brown dwarfs and planetary mass objects."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-view-of-ngc-1333">Webb’s view of NGC 1333</h2>



ESA noted that the center of the image presents a deep peek into the heart of the NGC 1333 cloud.&nbsp;



“Across the image we see large patches of orange, which represent gas glowing in the infrared. These so-called Herbig-Haro objects form when ionized material ejected from young stars collides with the surrounding cloud. They are hallmarks of a very active site of star formation."



The disks of gas and dust that surround the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> in this image may eventually produce planetary systems.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-in-the-sun-s-birth-cluster">Stars in the Sun's birth cluster</h2>



“Similar to the young stars in this mosaic, our own Sun and planets formed inside a dusty molecular cloud, 4.6 billion years ago. Our Sun did not form in isolation but as part of a cluster, which was perhaps even more massive than NGC 1333,” explained ESA.



Over time, the stars in the Sun's birth cluster would have drifted apart due to gravitational interactions and the dispersion of gas in the region.



Astronomers have been studying certain clues, such as isotopic signatures in meteorites, that hint the Sun may have formed near massive stars. These stars likely produced supernovae, which could have influenced the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a> by injecting heavy elements like iron-60.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1333">Star formation in NGC 1333</h2>



NGC 1333 is a vibrant example of a stellar nursery, where active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> is ongoing. It is known for its chaotic appearance, shaped by the interactions between newborn stars and the surrounding material.



Within NGC 1333, astronomers have observed a high level of turbulence, which makes the region dynamic and complex. 



The disturbances are caused by the outflows of young stars as they eject material into their surroundings, creating shock waves and influencing further star formation. 



These outflows are often seen as jets, which are visible in multiple wavelengths of light, especially infrared, as the surrounding dust absorbs visible light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-stages-of-planet-formation">Early stages of planet formation </h2>



NGC 1333 is also an area of interest for studying the early stages of star and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet formation</a>, as many of the stars within the cluster are in their infancy.



These stars are still in the process of gathering material and developing protoplanetary disks.&nbsp;



In images, NGC 1333 is marked by bright patches of blue and red, representing reflection <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebulae</a> and the ionized gas created by energetic young stars.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perseus-molecular-cloud-nbsp">The Perseus molecular cloud&nbsp;</h2>



The Perseus molecular cloud is a vast region of cold gas and dust located about 600 light-years away from Earth in the constellation <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/1500-billion-orphan-stars-discovered-in-the-perseus-galaxy-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseus</a>.&nbsp;



It is one of the most studied star-forming regions in our galaxy due to its relative proximity and the diversity of its young stellar objects. This cloud spans several hundred light-years and contains dense pockets of gas where new stars are actively forming.&nbsp;



These areas are often enshrouded in thick dust, which obscures them in visible light but allows astronomers to study them using infrared and radio wavelengths.



The Perseus molecular cloud is particularly interesting because of the chemistry taking place within it, including the formation of complex organic molecules that could be precursors to life.&nbsp;



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA



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Stellar nursery shines in the Perseus cloud

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

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



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



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



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



Messier 78 is a dynamic region of star formation that is obscured by cosmic dust in this high-resolution image captured by the Euclid space telescope.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The observations have helped astronomers identify numerous young stars and brown dwarfs (objects that are too large to be planets and too small to be stars) within the nebula.&nbsp;



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Messier 78: Young stars shine through dense dust

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency showcases the striking beauty of the planetary nebula NGC 2899, which resembles a moth in flight. The photo was captured by the Hubble Space Telescope.



“The planetary nebula NGC 2899 is shaped like a single macaroni noodle, with its edges pointed up, but its edge-on central torus is semi-transparent in the middle,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The top and bottom edges are thick and orange. The center is semi-transparent blue and green. The wider central region looks roughly like a moth, also filled with semi-transparent blue and green.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-features-of-the-planetary-nebula">Defining features of the planetary nebula</h2>



The nebula features a bipolar, cylindrical outflow of gas extending diagonally, driven by intense radiation and stellar winds from a central <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-planets-are-more-habitable-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a> with a scorching temperature of nearly 22,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;



“In fact, there may be two companion stars that are interacting and sculpting the nebula, which is pinched in the middle by a fragmented ring or torus - looking like a half-eaten donut,” said ESA.



Streams of gaseous “pillars” extend outward, all pointing back toward the central source of energy. The vibrant colors in the image come from glowing hydrogen and oxygen gases.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-and-significance-of-ngc-2899">Discovery and significance of NGC 2899</h2>



NGC 2899 was discovered by British astronomer John Herschel on March 2, 1835, during his survey of the southern skies from the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. Herschel cataloged many deep-sky objects in the southern hemisphere, contributing significantly to the New General Catalogue (NGC) compiled later by John Louis Emil Dreyer.



NGC 2899 is located approximately 4,500 light-years from Earth in the southern constellation Vela, which is part of the larger Vela-Puppis-Carina region of the Milky Way known for its rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fluffy-molecular-clouds-may-change-our-understanding-of-star-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star-forming activity</a> and remnants of past stellar explosions.&nbsp;



Vela, whose name means "sails" in Latin, represents the sails of the ancient Greek mythological ship Argo Navis. This region of the sky is particularly abundant in nebulae, star clusters, and other deep-sky objects, making it a focal point for astronomical observations.&nbsp;



The nebula’s distance places it well within our galaxy, offering astronomers a valuable glimpse into the later stages of stellar evolution and the processes that sculpt and illuminate planetary nebulae.



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



Nebulae are vast clouds of gas and dust in space, often serving as the birthplaces or remnants of stars.&nbsp;



They come in various types, including emission nebulae that glow due to ionized gases energized by nearby stars, reflection nebulae that shine by scattering starlight, and dark nebulae that obscure light from background <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-star-may-be-dragging-a-planet-along-with-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>.&nbsp;



Planetary nebulae form when dying stars shed their outer layers, creating colorful, often symmetrical shapes. Nebulae can span light-years across and are key to understanding the life cycles of stars and the structure of galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fate-of-dying-stars">The fate of dying stars</h2>



Not all dying stars become planetary nebulae. In fact, stars much more massive than the Sun follow a very different and far more violent path.&nbsp;



These massive stars end their lives in dramatic supernova explosions, releasing tremendous energy and scattering heavy elements into space, which enriches the interstellar medium.&nbsp;



What remains after the explosion depends on the star’s mass. The collapsed core can form a neutron star - an incredibly dense object composed mostly of neutrons. Or, if the star was even more massive, it may create a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-confirm-lone-black-hole-wandering-through-our-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a>, where gravity is so intense that not even light can escape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-examples-of-winged-nebulae-nbsp">Examples of “winged” nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



Several well-known nebulae are noted for their "winged" or symmetrical, wing-like appearances, often earning them evocative nicknames.&nbsp;



One of the most famous is the Butterfly Nebula, located in the constellation Scorpius. This planetary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> displays two expansive lobes that resemble butterfly wings, shaped by fast stellar winds from a dying star.



The Omega Nebula (also known as the Swan Nebula) in the constellation Sagittarius is a bright star-forming region that has been said to resemble a swan in flight. It has broad, glowing "wings" formed by clouds of ionized hydrogen gas. 



Similarly, the Eagle Nebula has an overall shape reminiscent of a bird with outstretched wings, which inspired its name. It is located in the constellation Serpens and home to the iconic "Pillars of Creation."



Image Credit: ESA



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Planetary nebula with ethereal wings captured by Hubble

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the vibrant colors of the Mawrth Vallis region of Mars. The image reveals a landscape abundant in iron, magnesium, and aluminum.&nbsp;



Mawrth Vallis lies just south of the dichotomy boundary, a ridge marking the divide between Mars' southern highlands and northern lowlands. Layered, clay-rich deposits found in this valley indicate prolonged interactions with water. 



Mawrth Vallis is considered a prime candidate for studying past habitability and the potential for preserved biosignatures. The region continues to captivate scientists due to its geological complexity and history of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-has-a-water-reservoir-two-miles-deep-enough-to-fill-earths-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquid water</a> flow. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-colors-of-mars">The colors of Mars</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-samples-from-mars-could-reveal-fascinating-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> gets its distinctive red color from iron oxides, or rust, on its surface. The Martian soil and dust are rich in iron minerals, which oxidize when exposed to the small amounts of oxygen present in the Martian atmosphere.&nbsp;



This oxidation process gives the planet its reddish hue, similar to how iron objects on Earth develop rust. 



The scattering of sunlight by these iron oxide particles further enhances the reddish appearance when viewed from a distance. However, the human eye can only perceive a fraction of Mars' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-captured-in-true-color-like-youve-never-seen-the-red-planet-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">true color</a> palette.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-striking-colors-revealed">Striking colors revealed</h2>



The European Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) aboard the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) offers a more detailed view, showcasing a striking diversity of colors.&nbsp;



This CaSSIS <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2024/06/Metallic_Mars_landscape" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a> reveals yellow layers rich in iron and magnesium clays, overlain by white and blue layers abundant in aluminum.&nbsp;



The area is draped by a dark, heavily eroded layer, illustrating a vibrant, metallic landscape formed around 3.6 billion years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-rosalind-franklin-mission">Upcoming Rosalind Franklin mission</h2>



The Rosalind Franklin mission is a joint mission by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Roscosmos aimed at exploring the surface of Mars to search for signs of past or present life. 



The mission is named after Rosalind Franklin, the pioneering British scientist whose work was crucial in the discovery of DNA's structure.



The rover is designed to drill up to two meters below the Martian surface, where it is believed any signs of life may be better preserved, away from the harsh surface radiation. 



The Rosalind Franklin rover was originally scheduled to launch in 2020, but technical delays and the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the launch window to 2028. 



Once on Mars, the rover will collaborate with other missions like NASA's Perseverance and Curiosity rovers to advance our understanding of the Red Planet's habitability and history.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-mars-ancient-past">Studying Mars’ ancient past</h2>



While Rosalind Franklin prepares for its mission, the TGO remains in orbit, conducting crucial research to unravel Mars' ancient past and assess its potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-mars-seismic-discoveries-and-the-quest-for-past-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a>.&nbsp;



Since beginning its full science mission in 2018, TGO has not only captured stunning images but also provided a comprehensive inventory of Mars' atmospheric gases and mapped water-rich locations on the planet's surface.



For six years, CaSSIS has delivered breathtaking views of Mars in vivid color, documenting features ranging from volcanic landscapes to active dust devils and immense sand dunes.&nbsp;



Understanding Mars' water history and its implications for past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-is-letting-out-mysterious-methane-burps-but-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a> remains a core focus of ESA’s ExoMars missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metals-on-mars">Metals on Mars</h2>



Mars is rich in various metals that contribute to its geological and mineralogical diversity. 



While iron is the most prominent, magnesium is also abundant. It is often found in the form of clays, contributing to the planet's diverse mineral composition. 



Aluminum is another significant metal present on Mars, commonly found in layered deposits and sediments. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-changes-over-time">Major changes over time</h2>



The metals are not evenly distributed but are found in various concentrations across the Martian surface. 



For instance, regions like Mawrth Vallis exhibit a complex layering of different metal-rich minerals, including iron and magnesium-rich clays overlain by aluminium-rich layers.&nbsp;



This diversity indicates a rich geological history involving water activity, volcanic processes, and sedimentary deposition.



The presence of these metals suggests that Mars has undergone significant chemical and physical processes over billions of years, shaping its current landscape.&nbsp;



Understanding the distribution and composition of metals on Mars helps scientists piece together the planet's history and assess its past potential for habitability.



Image Credit: ESA/TGO/CaSSIS



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Metallic Mars: The diverse colors of the Red Planet

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a pair of interacting spiral galaxies known as the Antennae Galaxies. They are located approximately 45 million light-years away in the constellation Corvus.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antennae-galaxies-in-a-deadly-embrace">Antennae Galaxies in a deadly embrace </h2>



“The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has snapped the best ever image of the Antennae Galaxies. Hubble has released images of these stunning galaxies twice before, once using observations from its Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 (WFPC2) in 1997, and again in 2006 from the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS),” noted <a href="https://esahubble.org/images/potw1345a/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“The galaxies - also known as NGC 4038 and NGC 4039 - are locked in a deadly embrace. Once normal, sedate spiral galaxies like the Milky Way, the pair have spent the past few hundred million years sparring with one another.”



According to ESA, the clash of the Antennae Galaxies is so violent that stars have been ripped from their host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collision-2-million-mph-stephans-quintet-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> to form a streaming arc between the two.&nbsp;



The name of the galaxy pair comes from this long stream of stars and gas, which resembles insect antennae.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-bursts-of-star-formation-nbsp">Intense bursts of star formation&nbsp;</h2>



The collision has triggered intense bursts of star formation, making the Antennae Galaxies one of the nearest and most dramatic examples of a starburst galaxy.&nbsp;



Many of the newly formed stars are concentrated in massive star clusters, some of which are expected to evolve into globular clusters over millions of years.



“This new image of the Antennae Galaxies shows obvious signs of chaos. Clouds of gas are seen in bright pink and red, surrounding the bright flashes of blue star-forming regions - some of which are partially obscured by dark patches of dust,” explained ESA.



“The rate of star formation is so high that the Antennae Galaxies are said to be in a state of starburst, a period in which all of the gas within the galaxies is being used to form stars.”&nbsp;



“This cannot last forever and neither can the separate galaxies; eventually the nuclei will coalesce, and the galaxies will begin their retirement together as one large elliptical galaxy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-antennae-galaxies">Significance of the Antennae Galaxies</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies are one of the most well-studied examples of galaxy collisions - offering insight into the processes that shape galaxies over time.



Astronomers study the Antennae Galaxies using a range of telescopes across different wavelengths, including visible light, infrared, and X-rays.&nbsp;



Observations in X-rays have revealed evidence of supernovae and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-may-talk-to-galaxies-through-energetic-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a>, while infrared studies highlight regions of dust and star formation.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-milky-way-s-collision-course-nbsp">The Milky Way's collision course&nbsp;</h2>



The Antennae Galaxies provide a glimpse into the future of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is expected to eventually merge with the Andromeda Galaxy - our closest spiral galaxy neighbor.



The cosmic collision course of the Milky Way and Andromeda will reshape both galaxies over billions of years.&nbsp;



This event is expected to occur in about 4.5 billion years. Both galaxies are part of the Local Group, a cluster of galaxies bound together by gravity. Their mutual gravitational pull is drawing them closer at a speed of approximately 110 kilometers per second.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-an-elliptical-galaxy-nbsp">The birth of an elliptical galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



When the two galaxies collide, their individual stars will largely avoid direct collisions due to the vast distances between them. However, the gravitational forces involved will create dramatic effects.&nbsp;



These forces will distort the galaxies' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shapes</a>, triggering intense bursts of star formation as gas clouds collide and compress. Over time, the galaxies will settle into a new, larger elliptical galaxy often referred to as "Milkomeda" or "Milkdromeda" by astronomers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-merger-and-the-solar-system">Galaxy merger and the solar system</h2>



Despite the seemingly destructive nature of the collision, the solar system is unlikely to face direct harm. Our Sun may find itself flung into a new orbit within the merged galaxy or even cast into intergalactic space.&nbsp;



The merger will also significantly alter the night sky, with the Andromeda Galaxy becoming increasingly prominent before blending into the unified structure.



This event is part of the natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-are-much-bigger-than-we-originally-believed-gas-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of galaxies</a> and serves as a fascinating reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the universe. 



While the collision is still billions of years away, studying it helps astronomers understand galactic interactions and the long-term future of our cosmic neighborhood.



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Dogs aren’t the only animals that seem curious about melodies. Birds sway to rhythms, cows gather near speakers, and even cats perk up when they hear familiar tunes.&nbsp;Some zoo animals have even been seen responding to background music with calmer behavior or increased play. 



From barns to living rooms to enclosures, animals across species seem to pick up on patterns and tones that affect how they feel.



Dr. Katrina Meinkoth, an assistant professor at <a href="https://go.okstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oklahoma State University</a>’s College of Veterinary Medicine, found that gentle music helped her own anxious dog settle down. 



She was surprised to discover that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-triggers-unique-prediction-zones-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">certain harmonies</a> may reduce nervous pacing and whining.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-helps-animals-stay-calm">Music helps animals stay calm</h2>



Mild background music appears to reduce sudden startles in many animals. A 2017 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28093218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> from the <a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Glasgow</a> revealed that dogs exposed to certain songs had lower cortisol levels and steadier heart rate variability.



The results align with older <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/ufaw/aw/2002/00000011/00000004/art00002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> from <a href="https://www.queensu.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen’s University</a> in Belfast, where soft classical pieces triggered calmer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-brain-plays-our-behaviors-like-a-music-box/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> and less barking in kenneled dogs. 



Some veterinarians suggest that these gentle tunes can mask jarring background noises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-affects-large-and-small-animals">Music affects large and small animals</h2>



Slow tempo chords can also influence farm species. Several <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/laban.162" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> hint that dairy cows produce more milk in calm settings with soothing melodies.



<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347550706_Effects_of_long-term_exposure_to_music_on_behaviour_immunity_and_performance_of_piglets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swine</a> show interest in audio played at moderate volumes, though fast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-music-help-plants-grow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhythms</a> sometimes boost their restlessness. For shelter animals, stable background tunes can lessen reactivity and help staff manage daily chores.



Small pets often respond to familiar pitches. Parrots and parakeets have been documented bobbing heads or becoming more alert when they hear <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">certain tunes</a>.



Studies in laboratory settings have noted that sudden noise spikes cause birds to startle, but consistent lower-pitch chords can <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8472833/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reduce fear responses</a>. This calmer state might promote better feeding patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pitch-and-tempo-matter">Pitch and tempo matter</h2>



Gorillas and elephants in captivity sometimes appear more relaxed with select <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-doesnt-just-hear-music-it-becomes-the-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music playing</a>, though researchers emphasize the importance of volume and tempo. 



A <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2008-16424-001" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> of captive elephants found fewer repetitive motions during soft classical pieces.



In zoo habitats, moderate tones can provide a distraction from loud visitors. It is still unclear how often playlists should change, since repeated exposure may lead to boredom in some species.



Some scientists propose that animals do not perceive all musical elements the way humans do. A review at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> reported that animals appear to respond most positively to lower pitches and slower tempo.



These structural details may mirror natural vocal calls and help regulate emotional states. Pets or captive creatures under stress might settle more quickly when they hear a style of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-orangutan-day-2024-protecting-the-people-of-the-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> that matches their hearing range.



High-volume music can agitate skittish animals. Volume spikes or heavy metal may raise tension and spark pacing or vocal outbursts.



Experts warn that continuous loud tracks might block meaningful signals animals rely on, such as subtle calls or caretaker cues. Keeping a balanced decibel level can maintain a calm backdrop.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-animals-respond-to-live-music">How animals respond to live music </h2>



<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nibu-thomas_amazing-how-music-catches-attention-and-activity-7329346628237123585-np-z?utm_medium=ios_app&amp;rcm=ACoAACAhL9IBs9K5RHCqoSxjuR2WPJHF0BZJDsM&amp;utm_source=social_share_video_v2&amp;utm_campaign=copy_link" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Several videos have surfaced</a> on social media and video platforms showing animals approaching live music performances, even when a person is physically present and playing the instrument.



In many of these clips, animals such as elephants, horses, cats, or even wild deer appear to be drawn toward musicians playing guitar, piano, violin, or flute in outdoor or barnyard settings.&nbsp;



The animals often stand still, approach slowly, or display relaxed body language, suggesting curiosity or calmness in response to the live sound. 



While anecdotal, these moments have captured widespread attention and add to growing public interest in how animals respond to music made in real time by humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-custom-music-for-each-species">Custom music for each species </h2>



Some animals show no reaction to ordinary human songs. However, targeted “species-appropriate” music uses frequencies close to each animal’s own calls.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison</a> observed that specially composed <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016815911500060X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cat music</a> drew more interest from felines than standard classical tunes. This concept might extend to other species with unique vocal ranges.



Gradual exposure is often best. Start with short sessions of gentle harmonies at a moderate level.



If an animal shows signs of increased rest or decreased agitation, the chosen style may be working. Watch closely for signs of stress, such as panting, freezing, or attempts to flee the area.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-use-calming-music-wisely">Use calming music wisely</h2>



Not every animal needs constant sound. For some, bursts of mellow <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-reveal-how-music-can-heal-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music can soothe</a> anxious behaviors, especially in new or chaotic environments.



Farm caretakers sometimes rotate playlists to maintain novelty and keep animals engaged. Each environment has unique acoustic challenges, so small adjustments can make a big difference.



Owners can experiment with classical, reggae, or specially crafted pieces, checking for calmer posture or quieter vocalizations. Veterinary behaviorists suggest playing music while leaving the house or during events like <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/dog-scared-of-thunder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storms</a>.



For wild species in sanctuaries, short intervals may reduce monotony and help staff with medical or feeding routines. The immediate payoff is often fewer stress-related issues among the animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-music-moves-all-forms-of-life">Music moves all forms of life</h2>



Music will not fix every problem, but it might bring a welcome shift in many creatures’ routines. 



Domestic pets, farm animals, and exotics all show varied responses, yet the shared theme is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/classical-music-orchestrates-a-mood-lifting-dance-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">improved well-being</a> when the notes hit the right frequency.



The key is to remain open to each animal’s signals. A small dose of tunes and a careful eye on behavior can reveal surprising benefits.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28093218/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physiology &amp; Behavior</a>.



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Music reduces anxiety in dogs, cats, and most other animal species

Dogs aren’t the only animals that seem curious about melodies....

In the waters of the South Pacific, geologists have identified a massive land area that has stayed mostly hidden below the surface. Many scientists now consider it a separate continent spanning nearly two million square miles (5 million square kilometers).



Experts call this sunken stretch of terrain Zealandia, and only about five percent of it breaks the ocean’s surface in places like New Zealand. 



Researchers suggest that it split from larger landmasses many millions of years ago, making it the planet’s newest candidate for a <a href="https://rock.geosociety.org/net/gsatoday/archive/27/3/article/GSATG321A.1.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fully fledged continent</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-beginnings-of-zealandia">Ancient beginnings of Zealandia</h2>



<a href="https://www.gns.cri.nz/about-us/staff-search/nick-mortimer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nick Mortimer</a> from GNS Science has been at the forefront of examining how Zealandia formed. He and his colleagues looked back over 100 million years to when <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/gondwana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gondwana</a> was a huge supercontinent consisting of South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, and parts of Asia.



Pieces of Gondwana started drifting apart over time, with one section eventually evolving into Zealandia. The land that once stood high above sea level began to slip below the ocean’s surface because of changes in tectonic forces.



As movement within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/significant-rare-earth-metal-deposit-discovered-in-kazakhstan-third-largest-in-world/">Earth’s</a> outer layers continued, Zealandia gradually edged away from West Antarctica about 85 million years ago. Later, it drifted apart from Australia and became an isolated mass.



The crust in this isolated region lost thickness and cooled, which led to the land's final dip below sea level. Today, it remains mostly out of sight, but its presence has significant scientific value.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-findings-across-zealandia">Geological findings across Zealandia</h2>



While <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/publications/reconnaissance-basement-geology-and-tectonics-north-zealandia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plenty of geologists</a> guessed for decades that this submerged area was continental in nature, the label of a separate continent was not widely accepted. Many believed these underwater ridges and plateaus were just fragments.



Fresh data has now changed that perspective. Researchers used <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topiccs/earth-and-planetary-sciences/geochronology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geochronology</a>, a method that determines rock ages through radioactive decay, to establish a timeline for the region’s formation.



“By dating these rocks and studying the magnetic anomalies they presented, we were able to map the major geological units across North Zealandia,” the researchers said. 



Evidence showed that this underwater land shares key traits with other recognized continents.



The scientists collected rock samples in the northern sections of Zealandia using advanced dredging tools. Their results mapped out sandstone, volcanic pebbles, and basaltic lavas with ages ranging from the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/the-cretaceous-period.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early Cretaceous</a> to the <a href="https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/tertiary/eocene.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eocene epoch</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirmed-by-magnetic-clues">Confirmed by magnetic clues</h2>



Magnetic data played a key role in confirming Zealandia’s hidden shape. Using measurements of magnetic anomalies, researchers spotted clear patterns tied to ancient volcanic activity that helped mark the continent’s boundaries.



These anomalies aligned with rock ages from dredged samples, revealing stretches of intraplate basalts which were formed during the Cretaceous and Eocene periods. 



The consistent signals supported the idea that Zealandia wasn’t just random ocean crust - it was structured like a true continent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tectonic-plates-explained">Tectonic plates explained</h2>



Much of Zealandia’s descent can be traced back to movements of tectonic plates, which are massive slabs of Earth’s surface that shift over time. In some regions, plates converge, causing one plate to sink beneath the other in a process called <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/subduction-zone-science/science/introduction-subduction-zones-amazing-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subduction</a>.



Zealandia’s thinning crust was shaped by such shifts. Plate stretching allowed deep ocean waters to flood over much of the land, leaving only a few islands sticking out above sea level.



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



Scientists find Zealandia valuable for learning how continents evolve under changing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/continent-sized-islands-llsvp-found-inside-earth-are-100-times-taller-than-mount-everest/">plate conditions</a>. This sunken landmass preserves clues about Earth’s past that might not be visible on continents above the surface.



“Zealandia’s underwater status in no way diminishes its geological significance,” stated a GNS Science researcher. That perspective encourages a closer look at how plate dynamics affect continental shapes and positions over geologic time.



Many sedimentary rocks within Zealandia date to the Late Cretaceous period, indicating that parts of it remained above water long after it separated from other continents. Basalt samples reveal younger volcanic pulses that arose when new plate boundaries formed.



The combination of rock dating methods, magnetic signatures, and tectonic mapping helped define where Zealandia’s boundaries lie. Researchers now have a clearer view of this submerged landscape and its distinct geological zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-exploration-of-zealandia">Ongoing exploration of Zealandia</h2>



Large portions of Zealandia remain unexplored. Technologies like seismic imaging and deep-sea drilling will likely uncover more details of its structure and past.



Some investigators hope to find further clues about how drifting continents influence sea level, climate patterns, and the distribution of plants and animals. Each discovery could refine our understanding of how Earth’s surface <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-continental-rift-african-splitting-landmass-creating-ocean-basin/">rearranges</a> itself.



Several areas on the planet exist as microcontinents or submerged fragments, but Zealandia stands out for its size and completeness. It is not only a trove of history but also a reminder that Earth still holds secrets.



Future fieldwork and collaborative international studies may refine ideas about how Zealandia contributes to global tectonic activity. 



This hidden expanse highlights the complexities of continental classification and sparks discussion about what qualifies as a continent.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023TC007961" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tectonics</a>.



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Scientists confirm the location of Earth’s missing eighth continent

In the waters of the South Pacific, geologists have identified...

When the conversation turns to solving the climate crisis, discussions often focus on technology, global treaties, and large-scale infrastructure overhauls that are aimed at reducing carbon emissions and driving systemic change.



Yet, there’s an equally powerful driver that often slips under the radar: lifestyle. How we live, what we eat, how we travel, what we buy - these things shape a huge share of our planet’s carbon footprint.



Now, a breakthrough study reveals just how impactful our daily choices can be. By focusing on changes made by just 23.7% of the global population - the top emitters - household consumption-based emissions could be reduced by as much as 10.4 gigatons of CO2 equivalent (CO2e).



That amounts to 40.1% of the household carbon footprint across 116 countries. This level of reduction could significantly close the gap in global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate</a> goals, especially as we look ahead to COP30.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle-changes-for-climate-action">Lifestyle changes for climate action </h2>



The international team behind this study examined 21 low-carbon lifestyle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chatgpts-carbon-footprint-is-astronomical-and-not-sustainable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">actions</a>. These are not obscure or hypothetical; they are practical changes that households can adopt without waiting for new technologies or massive reforms.



The research captures the emissions from both direct energy use and upstream supply chain effects, and offers a complete view of consumption-related emissions.



To guide these changes, the team adopted the "avoid, shift, improve" framework. 



Avoid involves absolute reduction in consumption. Shift means changing consumption patterns toward lower-carbon alternatives. Improve focuses on efficiency gains. Each type has its place in driving emission cuts, but their effectiveness varies depending on region, infrastructure, and economic status.



Adopting low-carbon lifestyles isn’t just about making ethical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-ozone-day-2024-advancing-climate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">choices</a> - it is now a quantifiable tool for real-world reductions in emissions.



“Our study shows that adopting low-carbon lifestyles can play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. By targeting high-emitting households, we can achieve significant carbon reductions and move closer to our global climate targets,” said Dr. Yuli Shan from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk">University of Birmingham</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-actions-to-limit-climate-change">Small actions to limit climate change</h2>



The researchers identified which consumption actions offer the biggest carbon payoffs. At the top of the list is reducing commercial service use. This alone can account for a 10.9% drop in emissions. 



Next is shifting to a healthy vegan diet, which reduces the intake of animal-based foods, sugar, and processed products. This lifestyle change could contribute an 8.3% reduction.



Improving energy efficiency in buildings - such as implementing passive house standards - offers a 6.0% drop. Switching from private vehicles to public transport provides another 3.6% savings. 



Even repairing or sharing appliances at home, while seemingly minor, adds a further 3.0% cut. These figures are not abstract estimates; they are based on an expansive input-output model and paired with household expenditure data, which makes them both realistic and globally applicable.



"This study, a key component of my doctoral thesis, demonstrates that adopting consumption-based low-carbon strategies is essential for climate mitigation," noted Dr. Yuru Guan, the study’s first author. 



Her comment draws attention to the growing body of research that places household decisions at the center of climate action.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-mitigation-by-region">Climate change mitigation by region</h2>



One of the more intriguing aspects of this study is how the mitigation potential differs by region. Unsurprisingly, North America tops the list, with 85.4% of its population exceeding the global per-capita carbon threshold of 4.6 tons CO2e per year.



These households account for a substantial share of global emissions, but also hold the largest potential for change.



Less expected are the findings from Sub-Saharan Africa. Although the region has a lower overall footprint, countries like Mauritius, Namibia, and Chad showed surprisingly high reduction potential. In Namibia, for instance, changing food and travel behaviors could slash emissions by up to 45.6 percent.



In Mauritius, potential savings reach 52.5%. These numbers demonstrate that even lower-emitting nations have valuable roles to play, particularly when their economic structures include carbon-heavy sectors like tourism.



"This research provides valuable insights into the potential of lifestyle changes for reducing carbon footprints. It is crucial for policymakers to consider these findings and implement strategies that encourage sustainable consumption patterns," noted Professor Klaus Hubacek from the University of Groningen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rebound-effect-is-a-hidden-risk">The rebound effect is a hidden risk</h2>



Changing lifestyles can save money. But that’s where an issue arises - how people spend the money they save. Known as the rebound effect, this phenomenon can erode the climate benefits of low-carbon choices. 



For example, if someone saves money by flying less but then spends it on home entertainment that uses more electricity, the net emissions might not decrease as much as intended.



The study simulated three different re-spending <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scenarios</a> to estimate how much carbon savings might be lost. In the worst-case scenario, where all saved money is spent on carbon-intensive items, 45.8% of the gains are erased. The most optimistic case still shows a 6.5% loss, meaning rebound effects are almost unavoidable, but they can be controlled.



Rebound effects are especially strong in emerging economies. As more households reach middle-income levels, saved income tends to be spent quickly on goods and services that may carry a heavy carbon cost. 



This highlights the need for guidance, nudges, and even regulation to make sure that carbon savings aren’t lost through backdoor increases in other areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-action-needs-strong-support">Climate action needs strong support</h2>



The study’s impact goes beyond the theoretical. It presents a clear call to action for governments and institutions. 



Policies that support remote work, encourage plant-based diets, and provide incentives for energy-efficient homes are already in place in some countries. Spain and Pakistan, for instance, have supported shorter work weeks and remote work to cut energy use.



Carbon pricing, eco-labeling, and investment in cycling infrastructure are additional tools in the policy toolkit. In Europe, recent energy price crises have even pushed countries to promote energy-saving behavior through national campaigns.



However, the report also cautions against one-size-fits-all strategies. What works in a high-income urban setting may not be feasible in rural or low-income contexts. 



Policymakers must consider income, access, and readiness when crafting solutions that involve behavior change. The goal should be to enable, not burden.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consumer-behavior-and-climate-action">Consumer behavior and climate action</h2>



While supply-side solutions like renewables and carbon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plant-diversity-can-help-combat-climate-change/">capture</a> remain crucial, this study makes the case that they are not enough. Lifestyle changes offer a faster, often cheaper way to make immediate progress while long-term technologies mature. But they need support.



The idea is not to guilt individuals but to empower those who have the most capacity to change. The study focuses on carbon-exceeding households precisely because they have the biggest footprints and the greatest ability to make a difference.



"Reducing household demand could lead to rebound effects due to re-spendings elsewhere," the authors note. This makes it all the more important to guide consumer behavior toward low-carbon alternatives and ensure that sustainable goods are accessible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle-changes-are-crucial">Lifestyle changes are crucial</h2>



With the COP30 summit approaching, this research arrives at a critical time. Climate negotiations often stall on national pledges and technological feasibility. This study reframes the conversation by highlighting what people can do - right now, in their homes, with their choices.



The evidence is clear: when supported by thoughtful policy, lifestyle changes offer massive potential for carbon reduction. They complement, rather than replace, technological solutions.



And they show that the power to reshape our planet’s future may lie as much in our kitchens, commutes, and shopping lists as in government boardrooms.



As global leaders gather to chart a new path, this research should serve as both a guide and a challenge. Change is not only possible - it’s already in our hands.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-59269-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Lifestyle changes hold the key to climate action

When the conversation turns to solving the climate crisis, discussions...

Team,Of,Ants,Delivers,Red,Currant,With,Trailer,Of,Sunflower

Sneaking aboard a minivan or clinging to the bumper of a delivery truck, small creatures like ants hitch rides on cars every day for long-distance trips across continents.



Tires roll through soil, doors brush against tree limbs, and before anyone notices, a living stowaway is on its way to a brand-new zip code. 



Seeds, moth eggs, and even mosquitoes have taken advantage of this free transit, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-many-ants-live-on-earth-at-any-point-in-time-total-number-is-astounding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> may be the most surprising passengers of all.



Those trips can reshape local nature. 



When a species lands far from its old haunts, it meets plants and animals that have never learned to handle its tricks. Some newcomers fizzle out, yet others spread fast and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/just-a-few-ants-can-change-an-entire-colonys-social-structure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shove resident species aside</a>. 



Hitchhiking turns vehicles, built for human convenience, into silent partners in a biological shuffle that plays out across parking lots and interstates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ants-invading-by-cars">Ants invading by cars</h2>



After watching ants scurry onto car tires in Taipei, entomologist Scotty Yang, an assistant professor in Virginia Tech’s <a href="https://www.ento.vt.edu/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Entomology</a>, decided to document the behavior. 



Between 2017 and 2023, he logged nine species hitching rides on everyday vehicles; seven were invasive in the places where they appeared. His notes mark the first systematic look at ants using personal cars as moving vans.



Seeds have hung on for rides of well over 200 miles, and the spongy moth is infamous for planting eggs on freight containers. 



Tiger mosquitoes have been spotted inside cars cruising across Spain. Ants add another twist: whole colonies, queen included, can march up a tire and disappear under the chassis before the driver turns the key.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-citizen-science-on-wheels">Citizen science on wheels</h2>



Yang’s project leaned on social-media posts from drivers around Taiwan who snapped photos of cars suddenly coated in ants. 



“We saw social-media posts where people were devastated about finding their cars covered in ants,” Yang said. “Although we felt sorry for them, we wanted to examine whether these events had anything in common.” 



Reports poured in about ghost ants, black cocoa ants, and several other species. Observers recorded the month, the weather, the type of car, how long it had been parked, and how many insects they counted.



Patterns emerged. 



A successful trip required three conditions: the insects had to climb the vehicle’s surface, the colony needed to be in a restless foraging or nesting mood, and the chosen nook - often a wheel well - had to remain within their preferred temperature range. 



When all three boxes were ticked, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-perform-life-saving-amputation-surgeries-on-injured-nest-mates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">family of ants</a> could roll out like seasoned travelers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-invasive-ants-on-cars-matter">Why invasive ants on cars matter</h2>



In a new neighborhood, invasive ants tangle with local species for every crumb and hiding place. Native insects often lose those fights, and the dominoes keep falling. Birds, reptiles, and small mammals that rely on the displaced insects go hungry. 



Some ants act as bodyguards for plant-sucking pests that drip sugary honeydew, allowing the pests to damage crops longer than usual.



Urban life does not escape the trouble. Large colonies can swarm kitchens, chew insulation, or short-circuit traffic lights. 



Farmers face yield losses when ants protect sap-sipping bugs in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-deja-vu-the-symbiotic-relationships-of-trees-and-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchards and fields</a>, while homeowners pay for repairs after surprising electrical outages. 



Each unplanned trip in a car, then, is more than an odd anecdote; it is a potential spark for ecological and economic headaches that can stretch for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-team-learned">What the team learned</h2>



Of the 100 worst invasive species on the planet, five are ants, and two of those - the red <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-red-fire-ants-have-made-their-way-to-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">imported fire ant</a> and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-you-give-caffeine-to-ants-many-interesting-things-happen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argentine ant</a> - are already established in Virginia. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-are-not-properly-adapting-to-warming-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warmer winters</a> over the past decade have let both inch farther north. 



Yang warns that casual rides in pickup trucks and family SUVs could speed that push. Personal vehicles, once dismissed as biologically unimportant, might be handing these tough insects fresh territory one rest-area stop at a time.



Virginia’s experience serves as a cautionary note for the broader Eastern United States. If motorists keep arriving from infested zones without checking their fenders and cargo, colonies can pop up beyond their previous limits. 



Yang hopes to launch a citizen-science network similar to the Taiwanese project so residents can flag outbreaks early, long before fire ants find a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foothold in new counties</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-check-your-car-for-ants">Check your car for ants</h2>



Drivers can cut the odds of giving ants a lift. Parking away from overgrown curbs, brushing loose soil from tires, and rinsing wheel wells after off-road jaunts help deny the insects a foothold. 



On long trips, a quick inspection during fuel stops catches roving workers before they settle in.



Communities can pitch in, too. Local extension offices may distribute identification cards, while schools host weekend “bug check” events in parking lots. 



Early warnings from sharp-eyed citizens let pest managers respond before an ant metropolis takes root. Each small action, repeated by thousands of travelers, keeps one more invasive colony from racing down the highway.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/een.13336" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Entomology</a>.



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Invasive ants have found a new way to spread across the globe

Sneaking aboard a minivan or clinging to the bumper of...

More than half of the average American’s daily calories come from ultra-processed food (UPF). A new score helps measure how much of this food people actually eat, even though they may be unaware of it.



A new investigation guided by Dr. Erikka Loftfield at the <a href="https://www.cancer.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Cancer Institute</a> identifies tiny molecules in blood and urine that seem to line up with how many of these ultra-processed food products a person eats.



Researchers found that certain metabolite patterns, called <a href="https://cdas.cancer.gov/approved-projects/4913/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poly-metabolite scores</a>, could help scientists check the accuracy of self-reported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-ultra-processed-foods-makes-your-muscles-weaker-and-more-fragile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-food-score-helps-track-hidden-intake">A food score helps track hidden intake</h2>



Many people have no idea how much ultra-processed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-make-our-bodies-age-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> they actually consume. Even well-intentioned eaters might miss hidden additives, processed oils, or preservatives in everyday meals.



This new testing method offers a way to cut through the confusion. It gives researchers - and potentially doctors - a snapshot of your diet without needing you to log every bite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-complex-eating-habits">Tracking complex eating habits</h2>



Individuals might overlook many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/health-risks-of-ultra-processed-foods-revealed-in-30-year-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">items</a> that fit into ultra-processed categories. Instant noodles, sweet packaged snacks, and store-bought pastries often fly under the radar.



The research team developed an approach to measure small <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165993602012098" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical markers</a> in blood and urine. They used a set of older participants who had provided detailed dietary reports across 12 months.



These markers were linked to how often a person consumed ultra-processed items. They looked like a fingerprint that matched the share of daily calories coming from those foods.



Some ultra-processed items carry more salt, sugar, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweeteners-erythritol-directly-linked-to-heart-attacks-and-strokes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial flavors</a> than simpler choices. These features can make them attractive and shelf-stable but also raise questions about long-term health effects.



Investigators combined both diet records and lab data to improve accuracy. This kind of measurement could catch missed details when people forget what they ate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-score-reveals-true-junk-food-levels">Score reveals true junk food levels</h2>



The team created a score that reflected this chemical signature. They tested the score on volunteers in a highly controlled inpatient setting to confirm that it worked.



“The identified poly-metabolite scores could serve as objective measures of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breaking-free-from-ultra-processed-foods-the-surprising-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPF</a> intake in large population studies to complement or reduce reliance on self-reported dietary data. 



Poly-metabolite scores should be evaluated and iteratively improved in populations with diverse diets and a wide range of UPF intake,” added Dr. Loftfield. 



The new score might reduce guesswork in nutrition studies. Each type of marker may hold clues about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breaking-free-from-ultra-processed-foods-the-surprising-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">processed ingredients</a> that might not appear in fresh or minimally processed foods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-doctors-may-check-diet-with-a-test">Doctors may check diet with a test</h2>



In the future, your doctor might learn more from a urine test than from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-are-harmful-to-nearly-every-part-of-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> diary. If these metabolite scores become widely available, clinicians could use them to flag poor dietary patterns without needing long conversations or guesswork.



This could speed up diagnosis and allow earlier interventions for diet-related issues. It also opens the door for personalized nutrition advice, built on real chemical data rather than rough estimates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-ultra-processed-foods">Impact of ultra-processed foods</h2>



Experts continue to investigate whether these products affect weight and disease risk. Some <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/fulltext/S1550-4131(19)30248-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence</a> shows that heavy intake of such foods can coincide with weight gain.



Advanced <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39150724/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glycation compounds</a> formed in some food processes might play a role in metabolic conditions. Researchers hope that pinpointing these markers may offer new insights.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-score-exposes-what-brands-don-t-highlight">Score exposes what brands don’t highlight</h2>



Food manufacturers often use marketing to frame ultra-processed products as convenient or fortified with nutrients. 



But the presence of these chemical signatures in blood and urine paints a different picture, one that links these foods to measurable biological changes.



As researchers get closer to pinpointing how these products affect the body, companies could face growing pressure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tool-lets-you-check-how-processed-your-food-is-grocerydb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reformulate their offerings</a>. 



If specific ingredients or production methods are consistently tied to the presence of harmful markers, regulators might push for transparency or even restrictions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-food-score-improves-tracking">How the food score improves tracking</h2>



Many people rely on memory when telling doctors or researchers what they ate. 



This score could someday serve as a helpful backup by offering an objective way to see whether someone’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-directly-linked-cognitive-decline-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported consumption</a> lines up with their actual exposure.



Scientists expect that future research may refine these measures for broader use. More diverse samples, including younger individuals and different cultural diets, could increase the reliability of these findings. 



Taking a closer look at blood and urine has sparked new ideas about how to identify ultra-processed food intake.



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



Public health agencies could eventually use these poly-metabolite scores to improve large-scale nutrition surveillance. 



Instead of relying only on self-reports or food purchase data, officials might turn to biochemical evidence to track dietary trends across regions or demographics.



Insurance companies or employers may also show interest in using these biomarkers to assess dietary risks. While this raises ethical questions, it reflects a growing push to personalize prevention strategies based on measurable health behaviors.



The study is published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1004560" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Medicine</a>.



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Quick blood test can now show exactly how much ultra-processed junk food a person eats

More than half of the average American’s daily calories come...

Our food faces growing threats as chemical, biological, and physical hazards collide with shifting economic and environmental conditions. But there’s hope on the horizon - artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful ally in detecting food contamination before it reaches our plates.



Researchers at the Universities of Birmingham, Bedfordshire, and <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford</a> have reviewed 116 studies published between 2019 and 2024.



The experts argue that only a combination of real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/enduring-earth-mystery-partially-solved-artificial-intelligence-nazca-geoglyphs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> tools and stronger international partnerships can keep pace with this accelerating complexity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-panorama-of-modern-food-contaminants">Panorama of modern food contaminants</h2>



The review groups hazards into three broad classes. Biological contaminants include familiar culprits - bacteria such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-it-safe-to-eat-eggs-salmonella-contamination-found-in-poultry-production-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmonella</a> and E. coli, as well as viruses and parasitic protozoa.



Chemical contaminants span a spectrum from pesticide residues and industrial heavy metals to naturally occurring toxins and veterinary drugs. 



Physical contaminants take the form of unwanted objects, now increasingly represented by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/contamination-crisis-microplastics-found-in-88-of-protein-sources/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>, fragments of packaging, and processing debris.



According to the authors, these disparate hazards share a common characteristic: they travel quickly through a globalized, just-in-time food system that can turn a local slip into a transcontinental outbreak.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-drivers-behind-food-risks">Key drivers behind food risks</h2>



To understand why contamination episodes appear to be multiplying, the team identified six macro forces shaping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-tongue-could-revolutionize-food-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food safety</a>. Demographic change tops the list as urbanization and aging populations both alter consumption patterns and stretch distribution networks.



Economic factors follow closely, with cost pressures sometimes eroding best practice in production and transport. Environmental degradation - soil depletion, water scarcity, climate-induced weather volatility - can create new pathways for contaminants to infiltrate crops and livestock.



Geopolitical instability can disrupt supply chains or weaken regulatory oversight, while shifting consumer priorities - such as demand for minimally processed or “natural” foods - may inadvertently reduce built-in safety margins.



Finally, technological advances themselves cut both ways: they allow faster detection yet also introduce novel materials and ingredients whose safety profiles are not fully known.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-warnings-for-food-contamination">AI warnings for food contamination </h2>



“Our review shows that food contamination is a borderless threat that no nation can tackle alone,” said lead author Helen Onyeaka of the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>.



“Pairing next-generation detection technologies with stronger international partnerships will be critical to keeping harmful contaminants out of the global food supply.”



The team highlights the promise of AI-driven systems that sift sensor data, trade records, and meteorological feeds to forecast contamination hotspots days or even weeks before pathogens bloom or toxins exceed safe limits. 



Machine-learning models can continuously refine themselves as new data arrive, offering regulators dynamic dashboards instead of static compliance snapshots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gaps-in-global-oversight"><a></a>Gaps in global oversight</h2>



Despite technological gains, the authors found glaring inconsistencies in how nations define, measure and report emerging contaminants. 



While the European Union has made strides in harmonizing pesticide residue limits, global standards for microplastic fragments or mycotoxin cocktails are still patchy.



“Science-based, transparent regulation must keep pace with the accelerating complexity of the food chain,” said co-author John Krebs, the former chair of the <a href="https://www.food.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Food Standards Agency</a>. “By integrating real-time data and global cooperation, we can modernize food safety for the challenges ahead.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-food-safety-ai-algorithms">Future of food safety: AI algorithms</h2>



The paper calls for a multi-level response. International research consortia should pool surveillance data and develop shared threat vocabularies so that a novel contaminant flagged in one region can be recognized in another before exposure spreads.



Regulatory bodies need to move toward mutual recognition of safety assessments and faster pathways for updating allowable limits. Investment in cutting-edge detection platforms must be prioritized to make supply chains more transparent.



Such platforms include biosensors that change color in the presence of toxins, handheld spectroscopes that read chemical fingerprints, and AI algorithms that parse complex patterns.



Public engagement rounds out the agenda: consumers who understand the provenance of their food and the basics of proper storage and preparation become active partners in prevention rather than passive recipients of recalls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-encouraging-signs-but-uneven-uptake"><a></a>Encouraging signs but uneven uptake</h2>



Novel tools are indeed emerging. Portable Raman spectrometers can now screen fish fillets for histamine in seconds; electrochemical biosensors detect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-listeria-outbreak-linked-to-frozen-dairy-shakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Listeria</a> in soft cheeses before they leave the factory. 



Deep-learning models use satellite imagery and humidity forecasts to predict aflatoxin surges in maize fields.



Yet adoption remains fragmented, with many small and medium-sized enterprises lacking capital or technical capacity. Governments can help by offering tax incentives, subsidized training, and open-source software packages that help detect these threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-ai-to-detect-food-contamination">Using AI to detect food contamination </h2>



The review ends on a cautiously optimistic note. The same forces that magnify risk - global trade, digital interconnection, rapid innovation - also provide the tools to mitigate it.



If nations share data rather than hoard it, and if industry embraces intelligent monitoring rather than relying solely on end-product testing, contamination events could be intercepted well before they reach supermarket shelves.



In an era when a single click can order strawberries from another continent, the authors argue, food safety must evolve into a similarly networked enterprise. 



By balancing a set of harmonized rules with real-time analytics and an informed public, the world may yet enjoy a future where meals cross borders - and generations - without carrying invisible threats.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301479725012228?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Environmental Management</a>.



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Future of food safety: AI can detect contamination early

Our food faces growing threats as chemical, biological, and physical...

Sharks have glided through oceans for more than 450 million years, relying on skeletons made not of bone but of stiff, mineralised cartilage.



Their vertebral columns act like coiled springs, storing and releasing energy with every tail beat, even as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/offshore-wind-farms-threaten-electric-sensitive-sharks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> reach speeds of twenty miles per hour or vault clear of the water in spinning leaps.



Scientists have long known that this mechanical efficiency stems from a cleverly reinforced spine, yet only now are researchers imaging those reinforcements at the nanoscale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-cartilage-in-3d">Mapping cartilage in 3D</h2>



A team from <a href="https://www.fau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> (FAU), the <a href="https://www.desy.de/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Electron Synchrotron</a> (DESY), and <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA Fisheries</a> used synchrotron X-ray nanotomography to map the internal architecture of blacktip shark vertebrae in three dimensions.



They paired scans with mechanical tests, squeezing tiny segments while tracking how they bent and cracked. The images revealed two layers inside the mineralized cartilage: a hard outer shell (corpus calcareum) and a softer inner core (intermediale).



Both zones are packed with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-molecules-collagen-discovered-in-66-million-year-old-dinosaur-bones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collagen</a> fibers infused with bioapatite, the same calcium-phosphate mineral that stiffens human bone. Yet their arrangements differ.



Porous plates of mineralized tissue are supported by thick struts, allowing the shark skeleton to resist forces from many directions. This is essential for an animal that swims continuously and bends its body thousands of times each hour.



At even higher magnification, the scientists saw needles of bioapatite aligned with the collagen strands. They also discovered helically wound fiber layers that resemble plywood on a microscopic scale. 



Under load, those helices hinder cracks from running unchecked, distributing stress through a web of stiff mineral and stretchy protein.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-recipe-for-resilience">Nature’s recipe for resilience</h2>



Study senior author Vivian Merk is an assistant professor of chemistry, ocean and mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering at FAU.



“Nature builds remarkably strong materials by combining minerals with biological polymers, such as collagen - a process known as biomineralization," said Merk. "This strategy allows creatures like shrimp, crustaceans, and even humans to develop tough, resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dead-coral-skeletons-prevent-reefs-from-recovering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skeletons</a>.”



“Sharks are a striking example. Their mineral-reinforced spines work like springs, flexing and storing energy as they swim. By learning how they build such tough yet adaptable skeletons, we hope to inspire the design of next-generation materials.”



Under compression, vertebrae yielded slightly on the first cycle and cracked only after a second round of stress. Even then, the fracture plane remained confined to one mineral layer, evidence that the helices and porous scaffolds localize damage rather than letting it propagate.



“After hundreds of millions of years of evolution, we can now finally see how shark cartilage works at the nanoscale - and learn from them,” said co-author Marianne Porter, an associate professor of biological sciences at FAU.



“We’re discovering how tiny mineral structures and collagen fibers come together to create a material that’s both strong and flexible, perfectly adapted for a shark’s powerful swimming. These insights could help us design better materials by following nature’s blueprint.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shark-skeletons-inspire-design">Shark skeletons inspire design</h2>



Blacktip sharks roam warm coastal waters worldwide. Their quick turns and aerial spins place punishing loads on the spine, making them ideal models for impact-resistant design. 



The layered “sharkitecture” identified in the study could guide the development of everything from lighter body armor to longer-lasting joint implants.



“This research highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration,” said Stella Batalama, dean of FAU’s College of Engineering and Computer Science. “By bringing together engineers, biologists, and materials scientists, we’ve uncovered how nature builds strong yet flexible materials.”



“The layered, fiber-reinforced structure of shark cartilage offers a compelling model for high-performance, resilient design, which holds promise for developing advanced materials from medical implants to impact-resistant gear.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cartilage-wins-in-evolution">Cartilage wins in evolution</h2>



Unlike bony fish, sharks never switch to a calcium-phosphate skeleton during development. Their cartilaginous framework, reinforced by bioapatite only at strategic sites, saves weight without sacrificing stiffness.



The new nanoscale images suggest evolution achieved that balance through multiscale ordering. Collagen fibrils form bundles, which twist into helices. These helices embed in mineral plates, which then stack into porous columns that combine load-bearing strength with flexibility.



Because collagen and bioapatite are common to many vertebrates, the principles observed in sharks could be translated to human health.



Engineers might mimic the helical layering to make fracture-resistant composites, or apply the plate-and-strut motif to maximize strength while retaining lightness in aerospace parts.



Surgeons could one day use customized implants modeled on shark cartilage to promote bone integration and reduce fatigue failure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shark-tech-from-the-deep">Shark tech from the deep</h2>



The study adds to a growing inventory of marine organisms whose microstructures inspire technology, from manta-ray-inspired filters to cephalopod-inspired <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-squid-power-their-amazing-camouflage-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">camouflage</a>. Shark spines now join that list, revealing how evolution transforms humble ingredients - protein and mineral - into a mechanical masterpiece.



Further research will probe other species, life stages, and environmental stresses. Mixed-phase cartilage from hammerheads or deep-sea lantern sharks may reveal different configurations tuned to unique swimming styles or pressure regimes.



Each discovery will refine the emerging field of deep-sea biomimetics, where ancient adaptations inform tomorrow’s materials. 



For engineers seeking to reconcile strength, flexibility, and damage tolerance, few tutors rival the blacktip shark. It has been perfected by 450 million years of relentless motion through saltwater and time.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsnano.5c02004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Nano</a>.



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Shark skeletons could lead to technological innovations

Sharks have glided through oceans for more than 450 million...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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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



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.

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

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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...

The grey, gruff worker bent down and chuckled. Everyone stared at him, waiting eagerly for the truth. “Someone was bored,” he said with an amused grin. Bored? What was going on? How was 30-year-old metal connected to boredom. “Feel like clueing in the rest of us?” Tony asked.

Vague Answer

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