<p>Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Shasta Lake, which has reached near-full capacity for the second consecutive year in 2024. Following similarly high levels in spring 2023, this marks a significant recovery from the severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megadrought-in-the-western-u-s-is-the-worst-in-at-least-1200-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a> and reduced water levels experienced from 2019 to 2022.</p>



<p>The Operational Land Imager (OLI) on the Landsat 8 satellite captured this image of Shasta Lake on May 7, 2024, showing the reservoir at 96 percent of its total capacity, which is 114 percent of the average for that date. By contrast, an image from Landsat 9 in April of 2022 showed the lake at only 39 percent capacity, with the year's maximum reaching just 40 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transformation-of-shasta-lake-nbsp">Transformation of Shasta Lake&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The turnaround began in early 2023, driven by heavy rains and substantial runoff from an above-average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/despite-record-snowpack-in-the-west-early-melting-could-lead-to-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowpack</a> in the mountains. By May 29, 2023, the reservoir had filled to 98 percent of its capacity, erasing the visible "bathtub ring" that had marked its perimeter in previous years.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water levels</a> at Shasta Lake began to rise significantly again by mid-January 2024 due to persistent storms, leading to higher levels at the start of 2024 than in the previous year. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abundance-of-rainfall">Abundance of rainfall</h2>



<p>By mid-February 2024, the reservoir was considered excessively full for the season. In an effort to accommodate more inflow and reduce flood risks, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation increased water discharges to up to seven times the winter baseline rate.</p>



<p>The abundance of rainfall in early 2024 also benefited other state reservoirs like Lake Oroville, which reached full capacity for a second year. Despite ongoing water releases, it held 128 percent of its average capacity in early May 2024.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groundwater-gains-nbsp">Groundwater gains&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-depletion-is-accelerating-but-it-is-not-inevitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Groundwater</a>, which typically makes up 40 percent of California's water supply and up to 60 percent in dry years, also saw improvements. The California Department of Water Resources reported a net gain of 4.1 million acre-feet in managed groundwater recharge during the last water year (October 2022 through September 2023), marking the first annual increase since 2019.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the department estimates it would require five consecutive above-average water years to recover from the deficits of the past two decades.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-shasta-lake">More about Shasta Lake</h2>



<p>Shasta Lake, located in Northern California, is the largest reservoir in the state. It was created by the damming of the Sacramento River with the construction of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-strategy-fish-species-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shasta Dam</a> in the 1940s. This massive lake is a popular destination for a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, and water skiing.</p>



<p>The lake's surroundings are characterized by scenic landscapes, including the Shasta-Trinity National Forest which is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and exploring diverse wildlife and natural beauty. The area is also known for its geological significance, featuring a variety of volcanic features and the nearby Mount Shasta, a prominent volcanic peak.</p>



<p>Additionally, Shasta Lake plays a crucial role in water supply, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control in California. Its capacity and strategic location make it integral to the Central Valley Project, which manages the water resources of the region for agricultural, urban, and environmental uses.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Shasta Lake is full for the second consecutive year

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features Messier 82, a starburst galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> is actively forming new stars at a rate ten times that of the Milky Way.</p>



<p>In a groundbreaking study using the <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST), an international team of astronomers has taken an unprecedented look at Messier 82 (M82), revealing intricate details about its frenzied star formation. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-nircam-and-infrared-observations">The power of NIRCam and infrared observations</h2>



<p>The study, led by Alberto Bolatto, utilized Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) to penetrate the thick dust and gas veiling the galaxy's core, a region critical to understanding <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>. </p>



<p>"M82 has garnered a variety of observations over the years because it can be considered as the prototypical starburst galaxy," noted Bolatto. “With Webb’s size and resolution, we can look at this star-forming galaxy and see all of this beautiful new detail.”</p>



<p>Webb's NIRCam has proven crucial for observing areas like M82’s center, where layers of dust typically obscure the view in other wavelengths. The camera's ability to capture infrared light allows it to reveal the galaxy's core and its dynamic processes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messier-82-image-shows-the-power-of-webb-nbsp">Messier 82 image shows the power of Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This image shows the power of Webb. Every single white dot in this image is either a star or a star cluster. We can start to distinguish all of these tiny point sources, which enables us to acquire an accurate count of all the star clusters in this galaxy,” noted study second author Rebecca Levy from the University of Arizona.</p>



<p>One of the NIRCam's innovative features is its mode that prevents bright sources from overwhelming the detector, which was particularly useful in studying the intensely active center of Messier 82.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the image, the dark brown tendrils of dust weave through the galaxy's glowing white core, interspersed with small green specks that represent concentrated areas of iron from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> remnants. Red patches highlight regions where molecular hydrogen is illuminated by the radiation from nearby young stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-galactic-winds">Insights into galactic winds</h2>



<p>The study also focused on understanding how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galactic wind</a>, driven by the rapid rate of star formation and subsequent supernovae, influences M82’s environment. The NIRCam images showed clumpy tendrils of gas, appearing in red, which extend above and below the galaxy's plane, marking the path of this wind rushing out from the starburst's core.</p>



<p>A key revelation came from the NIRCam’s tracing of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), sooty chemical molecules that map out the structure of the galactic wind. To the surprise of researchers, the PAH emissions closely resembled the patterns of the hot, ionized gas, suggesting a more complex interaction within the wind than previously understood.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It was unexpected to see the PAH emission resemble ionised gas," said Bolatto. "PAHs are not supposed to live very long when exposed to such a strong radiation field, so perhaps they are being replenished all the time. It challenges our theories and shows us that further investigation is required."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-observations-of-messier-82">Future observations of Messier 82</h3>



<p>The findings from Webb are just the beginning. The team plans to further analyze Messier 82 with additional data, including spectroscopic observations, to determine the ages of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and the duration of each star formation phase within the starburst environment. </p>



<p>These observations will also assist in a broader understanding of similar processes in early galaxies, which were common in the young universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study</h2>



<p>Study co-author Torsten Böker of the European Space Agency (ESA) emphasized the broader implications of these findings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“With these amazing Webb images, and our upcoming spectra, we can study how exactly the strong winds and shock fronts from young stars and supernovae can remove the very gas and dust from which new stars are forming,” explained Böker.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“A detailed understanding of this ‘feedback’ cycle is important for theories of how the early universe evolved, because compact starbursts such as the one in M82 were very common at high redshift.”</p>



<p>The study not only illuminates the specific mechanics of star formation in M82 but also enhances our general understanding of galactic evolution and the lifecycle of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



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



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Messier 82: Unlocking the mysteries of star formation

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

<p>Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features smoke from fires around the Canadian community of Fort Nelson and streaming east into Alberta on May 11, 2024.</p>



<p>Canada is currently facing an intense start to its wildland fire season, following a severe season last year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By mid-May, parts of British Columbia were already shrouded in smoke from early and aggressive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-environmental-gains-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, a phenomenon typically seen much later in the summer. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellite-observations-of-canada-fires">Satellite observations of Canada fires</h2>



<p>The image was captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additional observations by NASA's Terra satellite and others showed the smoke plume rising several kilometers into the air and spreading into the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions of the United States, where it raised air quality concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fires-fueled-by-dry-conditions-and-high-winds">Fires fueled by dry conditions and high winds</h2>



<p>One particularly dangerous fire, which ignited on May 10, rapidly expanded southeast of Fort Nelson and a nearby First Nation community, threatening around 3,400 residents.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dry conditions and high winds from a passing cold front fueled the blaze, prompting immediate evacuation orders for the area.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Cliff Chapman, British Columbia’s Wildfire Service Director of Provincial Operations, advised against travel near Fort Nelson due to the fire's severe intensity and rapid spread.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holdover-fires-in-canada">Holdover fires in Canada</h2>



<p>To the north, several other fires consumed tens of thousands of hectares. Some of these were "holdover" fires, which persisted under the snow throughout the winter and rekindled in the spring, fed by vegetation dried from ongoing severe drought conditions as per the North American Drought Monitor.</p>



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



<p>This year's fire intensity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> in British Columbia are notably high, with Mark Parrington, an atmospheric scientist at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, reporting over 5 megatons of carbon emissions from the province's wildfires by mid-May - marking the highest May emissions in 22 years. </p>



<p>Parrington's assessments, part of the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service, utilize data from the Global Fire Assimilation System, which incorporates MODIS fire observations from NASA's satellites.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-canada-fires-in-2023">Canada fires in 2023</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 wildfire season</a> in Canada was particularly intense and significant due to a combination of factors including climate conditions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human impacts</a>. </p>



<p>Throughout the season, Canada experienced an unusually high number of wildfires, which affected vast areas across the country, particularly in regions like British Columbia and Alberta.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-conditions-nbsp">Challenging conditions&nbsp;</h3>



<p>These fires were fueled by a combination of dry weather, higher than average temperatures, and strong winds, creating challenging conditions for firefighting efforts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-quality">Air quality</h3>



<p>The smoke from the wildfires had a profound impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-massive-amounts-of-methane-gas-spews-from-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a>, not only in Canada but also in parts of the United States, leading to health advisories and concerns over air pollution. The fires prompted widespread evacuations and significant damage to properties and ecosystems. </p>



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



<p>The season highlighted the growing concerns over climate change as a driving force behind the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfire events.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Canadian government and local authorities were actively engaged in firefighting and mitigation efforts, but the scale of the fires called for an increased focus on long-term strategies for fire prevention and forest management.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-wildfires-on-human-health">Impact of wildfires on human health</h2>



<p>Wildfires have a significant impact on human health, affecting both physical and mental well-being.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-health">Physical health</h3>



<p>The most immediate health issue is the inhalation of smoke, which contains a mix of harmful gases and fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma exacerbations, bronchitis, and other chronic lung conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, exposure to wildfire smoke has been linked to cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes, particularly in older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health">Mental health</h3>



<p>Beyond physical health, wildfires can also have a profound effect on mental health. The stress and trauma of experiencing a wildfire, losing property, or being displaced can lead to mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Moreover, the recovery and rebuilding process can be lengthy and stressful, further impacting mental health.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-challenges-nbsp">Additional challenges&nbsp;</h3>



<p>People in affected areas often face challenges with water and food safety due to contamination from fire-related chemicals and debris. The destruction of infrastructure can also limit access to medical care and health services, exacerbating all these health issues.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Overall, the impact of wildfires on human health is complex and can be long-lasting, necessitating both immediate and long-term public health interventions to support affected communities.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Canada's fire season is off to an intense start

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency </a>features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, which is located about 130 million light-years away in the constellation Centaurus. NGC 3783 is also the most prominent of a galaxy group (by the same name) that contains 47 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. </p>



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



<p>“Like galaxy clusters, galaxy groups are aggregates of gravitationally bound galaxies. Galaxy groups, however, are less massive and contain fewer members than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/titanic-galaxy-cluster-collision-defies-all-current-understanding-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clusters</a> do: where galaxy clusters can contain hundreds or even thousands of constituent galaxies, galaxy groups do not typically include more than 50,” noted ESA.</p>



<p>“The Milky Way is actually part of a galaxy group, known as the Local Group, which contains two other large galaxies (Andromeda and the Triangulum galaxy), as well as several dozen satellite and dwarf galaxies.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hd-101274-a-blue-giant-star">HD 101274: A blue giant star</h2>



<p>The bright object that appears to the right of the galaxy is the star HD 101274. “The perspective in this image makes the star and the galaxy look like close companions, but this is an illusion. HD 101274 lies only about 1,530 light-years from Earth, meaning it is about 85 thousand times closer than NGC 3783,” explained ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>HD 101274 is part of the NGC 3766 cluster, which is sometimes referred to as the Pearl Cluster, an open cluster known for its richness in bright stars and its relatively young age.</p>



<p>HD 101274 is categorized as a blue giant star, characterized by its high temperature and luminosity. Blue giants are massive stars that have left the main sequence phase of stellar evolution and are burning helium or heavier elements in their cores. These stars are known for their short lifespans relative to smaller stars due to their rapid consumption of nuclear fuel.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stars</a> like HD 101274 are important for astronomers because they help in studying the properties of stellar populations in clusters and the dynamics of stellar evolution in different environments. The spectral and photometric observations of such stars can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of their atmospheres, internal structures, and the processes occurring within and around them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-central-region-of-ngc-3783">Bright central region of NGC 3783</h2>



<p>One of the most interesting aspects of NGC 3783 is that it harbors an active galactic nucleus, meaning its central region is exceptionally luminous, likely due to the presence of a supermassive black hole. This black hole is actively accreting material, which emits a substantial amount of radiation as it spirals inward and heats up.</p>



<p>This galaxy is particularly known for its bright central region and has been studied extensively in the ultraviolet and X-ray light spectra to understand better the properties of the accretion disk around the black hole and the complex dynamics of the material surrounding it. These studies are crucial for understanding the physics of active galactic nuclei and the role they play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>.</p>



<p>According to ESA, NGC 3783 is a Type I Seyfert galaxy. “In this image it is recorded by Hubble in incredible detail, from its glowing central bar to its narrow, winding arms and the dust threaded through them, thanks to five separate images taken in different wavelengths of light," noted ESA.</p>



<p>“In fact, the galactic center is bright enough to Hubble that it exhibits diffraction spikes, normally only seen on stars such as HD 101274.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ngc-3783-galaxy-group">More about the NGC 3783 galaxy group</h2>



<p>The NGC 3783 group is part of the larger Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster, which itself is a massive collection of galaxies and galaxy clusters located primarily in the constellations of Hydra and Centaurus.</p>



<p>The NGC 3783 group consists of several galaxies that are gravitationally bound and interact with each other. These interactions can influence the galaxies' evolution through mechanisms like tidal forces and merger events, which can trigger star formation, fuel central black holes, and reshape the galaxies' structures.</p>



<p>Studying groups like the NGC 3783 group helps astronomers understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> evolve together in a common gravitational environment, offering insights into the dynamics and evolution of structures on cosmic scales. This is especially relevant in understanding how galaxies influence each other through gravitational interactions and the environmental effects on galaxy evolution.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA</p>



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The luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

<p>Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features severe flooding in downtown Porto Alegre, the capital city of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. Nearly two million people have been affected by the historic floods. More than 100 people were killed and 140 are still missing. </p>



<p>Floodwaters inundated the historic district, forced the closure of the international airport, affected major stadiums, and rendered several highways unusable.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upheaval-across-rio-grande-do-sul">Upheaval across Rio Grande do Sul</h2>



<p>Severe weather systems, characterized by strong winds and heavy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-will-wreak-havoc-on-mountain-ranges-as-warming-climate-turns-snow-to-rain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainfall</a>, impacted Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil's southernmost state, beginning on April 27, 2024. In a matter of days, some regions recorded over 300 millimeters (approximately 12 inches) of rain, resulting in rivers overflowing their banks and causing extensive, destructive flooding throughout the area.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> has led to significant upheaval across Rio Grande do Sul. According to the state's civil defense agency, over 160,000 individuals have been displaced, and there have been numerous fatalities. </p>



<p>The state, a key hub for the production and export of soy, rice, wheat, and meat, has seen considerable agricultural damage. Disruptions to grain exports are anticipated due to the impact on silos, storage facilities, transportation networks, and ports.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-storms-in-rio-grande-do-sul-nbsp">Intense storms in Rio Grande do Sul&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) attributes the extreme weather to the weakening El Niño phenomenon, which influenced cold fronts to move towards Rio Grande do Sul and increased atmospheric instability over the area. </p>



<p>Additionally, unusually warm waters in the South Atlantic Ocean elevated humidity levels, intensifying the storms through the convergence of warm, moist air from the Amazon and cooler southern air.</p>



<p>This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/compound-weather-extremes-are-now-more-frequent-and-severe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a> event aligns with broader climatic changes anticipated for the region, as highlighted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Report. </p>



<p>Projections indicate significant increases in annual precipitation totals and extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precipitation</a> events by 2050, based on simulations from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP-6) and incorporating findings from NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies' GISS ModelE.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-events-nbsp">Extreme weather events&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Brazil experiences a wide variety of extreme weather events due to its vast size and diverse ecosystems. Droughts are a significant issue, especially in the Northeast and parts of the Southeast, affecting water supplies, agriculture, and energy production.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Conversely, the rainy season brings floods that can inundate large regions, including the Amazon basin and densely populated urban areas like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where inadequate drainage systems often lead to severe waterlogging.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landslide-predictions-could-become-94-percent-more-accurate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Landslides</a> are another common consequence of heavy rains, posing risks in hilly cities such as Rio de Janeiro. As global temperatures rise, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, particularly in urban centers where the heat island effect can amplify high temperatures.</p>



<p>The ongoing impact of climate change is likely to increase both the frequency and severity of these extreme weather events across Brazil, highlighting the need for enhanced disaster preparedness and adaptive strategies to mitigate future risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-porto-alegre-nbsp">Porto Alegre&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Porto Alegre is known for its rich cultural heritage and strong European influence, reflecting the diverse immigrant populations that have settled there, including Germans, Italians, and Portuguese. The city combines a bustling urban atmosphere with charming old architecture and expansive public parks, making it a vibrant center for culture, politics, and commerce in the region.</p>



<p>Porto Alegre hosts numerous cultural events, such as the annual Porto Alegre Book Fair, one of the largest book fairs in Brazil, and it's renowned for its lively arts scene, including theaters, museums, and galleries. The city is also a significant educational hub, home to several universities and research institutions, contributing to its reputation as a center of intellectual and academic activity.</p>



<p>Economically, Porto Alegre is an important trade and service center. It has a diverse economy with strong sectors in commerce, services, and manufacturing. The city serves as a critical transportation and logistics hub due to its strategic location near the Mercosur (Southern Common Market) capitals, enhancing its role in regional trade.</p>



<p>Despite its urban advancements, Porto Alegre is also known for its environmental initiatives, including extensive recycling programs and a high number of green spaces, which are integrated into the urban landscape and offer residents and visitors alike a respite from the bustling city life.</p>



<p>The image of flooding in Porto Alegre was captured on May 8, 2024 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on the Landsat 8 satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Historic flooding in Rio Grande do Sul

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust streaming from Lago Colhué Huapi, a shallow endorheic lake located in the Chubut Province in southern Argentina.</p>



<p>"Strong northwesterly winds often race down the eastern side of the Andes Mountains and whip across the central Patagonian Desert. In the process, they sometimes lift dust from Argentina’s drying Lago Colhué Huapi, fueling intense dust storms," said NASA.</p>



<p>"Lago Colhué Huapi is a particularly rich source of dust because the shallow lake regularly grows and shrinks with variations in the flow of the Senguer River and the pace of evaporation. When lake water levels are low, as they were when MODIS captured this image, fine-grained, lightweight particles are easily transported by the wind."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-activity-from-lago-colhue-huapi">Dust activity from Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dust storms</a> in this region are most common during the summer months from December to March. There are 15 to 30 dust storms in a typical year. </p>



<p>"Dust storms are frequent and persistent enough in this area that they have exposed an open-air archaeological site along the lake’s edge," said NASA.</p>



<p>"The Puesto Roberts 1 site, located in an old floodplain on the southeast side of Lago Colhué Huapi, was first identified in 2019 when archaeologists noticed that winds had exposed a five-centimeter layer of sandy loam soil littered with stone tools and the bones of a wild species of llama called guanaco."</p>



<p>"Archaeologists identified 427 artifacts at the site - including stone cutting blades, milling tools, scrapers, and egg-shaped bola stones used for hunting - spread across 15 square meters, according to a 2022 study led by Heidi Hammond, an archaeologist at the National University of the Patagonia San Juan Bosco."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lago-colhue-huapi">More about Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p>This lake is an interesting geographical feature primarily because it acts as a seasonal sink for the Senguerr River, which in turn gathers waters from various smaller streams in the region.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Due to its shallow nature, the size of Lago Colhué Huapi can vary significantly with the seasons and the amount of water it receives from its sources. During times of drought or reduced rainfall, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-lakes-to-their-boiling-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> can shrink considerably, affecting the local ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.</p>



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



<p>The lake's surroundings are characterized by a semi-arid climate, which influences the type of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in the area. Despite the harsh conditions, the region around Lago Colhué Huapi supports a variety of bird species, making it a site of interest for birdwatchers and naturalists.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges">Environmental challenges </h3>



<p>In recent years, Lago Colhué Huapi has faced environmental challenges, including the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, which has led to lower water levels and increased salinity. These changes pose threats to the lake's ecological balance and the species that inhabit its waters and shores. The situation at Lago Colhué Huapi serves as a reminder of the broader environmental issues facing water bodies in arid and semi-arid regions around the world.</p>



<p>The image was captured on March 29, 2024 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

<p>During its 59th close flyby of Jupiter on March 7, 2024, NASA's Juno mission captured breathtaking views of the giant planet's colorful belts and swirling storms, including the iconic Great Red Spot. However, upon closer examination, the images revealed something more: <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/amalthea_jupiter-moon_juno-spacecraft_NASA_1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two glimpses of the tiny moon</a> Amalthea.</p>



<p>Amalthea, discovered by Edward Emerson Barnard in 1892, was the last planetary satellite to be found by direct visual observation. </p>



<p>Named after the mythical goat who nursed the infant Zeus in Greek mythology, Amalthea is the largest of Jupiter's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-now-leads-the-solar-system-moon-race-with-145/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner moons</a> and the fifth-largest moon overall.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amalthea-s-unique-characteristics">Amalthea's unique characteristics</h2>



<p>With dimensions of 250 × 146 × 128 kilometers, Amalthea has an irregular shape and a low average density of around 0.85 g/cm³, indicating that it is composed mostly of ice with a small fraction of rock. </p>



<p>Orbiting Jupiter at a distance of approximately 181,400 kilometers, Amalthea completes one orbit around the gas giant in just under 12 hours.</p>



<p>Interestingly, Amalthea is the reddest object in the solar system and gives out more heat than it receives from the Sun. </p>



<p>This phenomenon may be due to electric currents induced in the moon's core as it orbits within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter's powerful magnetic field</a>, or it could be caused by tidal stresses from Jupiter's gravity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-jupiter-s-moon-amalthea-influences-its-ring-system">How Jupiter's moon Amalthea influences its ring system</h2>



<p>Amalthea's orbit lies within Jupiter's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-turbulent-atmosphere-includes-a-high-speed-jet-stream/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">main ring system</a>, and the moon is thought to be a significant contributor to the ring's dust content. </p>



<p>Its surface is heavily cratered, with the largest crater, Pan, measuring about 90 kilometers in diameter. The moon's surface also features a number of bright patches, which are believed to be relatively fresh impact craters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galileo-gets-the-first-up-close-view">Galileo gets the first up-close view</h2>



<p>The Galileo spacecraft provided the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/amalthea_jupiter-moon_galileo-spacecraft_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first detailed images of Amalthea</a> during its mission to study the Jovian system from 1995 to 2003, revealing the moon's irregular shape and heavily cratered surface. </p>



<p>Although no dedicated missions to Amalthea are currently planned, future missions to study the Jovian system may provide further insights into this intriguing inner moon.</p>



<p>At the time that the first of these two images was taken, the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/juno/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Juno spacecraft</a> was about 165,000 miles (265,000 kilometers) above Jupiter's cloud tops, at a latitude of about 5 degrees north of the equator. </p>



<p>Citizen scientist Gerald Eichstädt made these images using raw data from the JunoCam instrument, applying processing techniques to enhance the clarity of the images.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amalthea-and-the-significance-of-jupiter-s-inner-moons">Amalthea and the significance of Jupiter's inner moons</h2>



<p>Jupiter's inner moons, including Amalthea, are important for several reasons:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-formation-and-evolution-of-the-jovian-system">Understanding the formation and evolution of the Jovian system</h3>



<p>Studying the inner moons can provide insights into how they formed and evolved alongside Jupiter, offering clues about the early history of our solar system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-on-jupiter-s-ring-system">Influence on Jupiter's ring system</h3>



<p>The inner moons, particularly Amalthea, are thought to be significant contributors to the dust content in Jupiter's ring system. Investigating their role in shaping and maintaining the rings can help us better understand the dynamics of planetary ring systems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-physical-properties">Unique physical properties</h3>



<p>Jupiter's inner moons exhibit unusual characteristics, such as Amalthea's low density and high heat output. Exploring these properties can help scientists develop new theories about the composition and internal structure of small, irregular moons.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tidal-forces-and-orbital-resonances">Tidal forces and orbital resonances</h3>



<p>The inner moons are subjected to strong tidal forces from Jupiter and may also interact with each other through orbital resonances. Studying these interactions can provide valuable information about the complex gravitational dance within the Jovian system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amalthea-tiny-moon-with-a-big-impact">Amalthea: Tiny moon with a big impact</h2>



<p>In summary, the Juno mission's serendipitous capture of Amalthea during its 59th flyby of Jupiter has provided us with a tantalizing glimpse into the fascinating world of this tiny, yet influential moon. </p>



<p>As we continue to explore the Jovian system, we eagerly anticipate the discoveries that future missions and citizen scientists will uncover, further unraveling the mysteries surrounding Amalthea and its role in shaping Jupiter's complex environment. </p>



<p>Through these endeavors, we will undoubtedly deepen our understanding of not only this mythical moon but also the intricate dynamics at play within our solar system's largest and most captivating planetary system.</p>



<p><a href="https://missionjuno.swri.edu/junocam/processing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JunoCam’s raw images</a> are available for the public to peruse and process into image products.</p>



<p>More information about NASA citizen science <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/citizenscience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">can be found here</a>.</p>



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Jupiter’s tiny moon Amalthea captured by the Juno spacecraft

During its 59th close flyby of Jupiter on March 7,...

<p>In the face of natural disasters like flooding, fire <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/fire-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ants</a> demonstrate a remarkable survival tactic. These tiny creatures come together, interlocking to form a buoyant structure akin to a raft. </p>



<p>This living raft is not only about survival but also represents a dynamic, adaptive system, much like the materials scientists aspire to create.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-fire-ants-shape-material-science">How fire ants shape material science</h2>



<p>Professor Rob Wagner from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> has taken a deep dive into understanding these natural phenomena.</p>



<p>Previously part of the Vernerey Soft Matter Mechanics Lab, Professor Wagner has been exploring how fire ants adjust and change their structure under various conditions. His research aims to decipher the secrets of these living systems to enhance our material sciences.</p>



<p>“Living systems have always fascinated me because they achieve things that our current engineered materials cannot - not even close,” said Wagner.</p>



<p>He highlighted the contrast between passive materials used today, like metals and ceramics, and the active, energy-converting mechanisms observed in living systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mimicking smart behaviors</h2>



<p>In their recent work, the team investigated how fire ant rafts react to mechanical stress. They observed that unlike polymers that flow or break under different stresses, the ant bonds held strong consistently.</p>



<p>“Many polymers are held together by dynamic bonds that break, but can reform,” explained Professor Wagner. “When pulled slowly enough, these bonds have time to restructure the material so that - instead of fracturing - it flows like the slime our kids play with, or soft-serve ice cream."</p>



<p>"When pulled very fast, though, it breaks more like chalk. Since the rafts are held together by ants clinging onto one another, their bonds can break and reform. So, my colleagues and I thought they’d do the same thing.”</p>



<p>However, the researchers found that the ants’ bonds did not weaken or flow regardless of the pulling speed. Professor Wagner speculates that the fire ants intensify their grip under stress, likely due to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ants-build-mini-eiffel-tower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a> instinct that maintains cohesion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Catch bond behavior</h2>



<p>The phenomenon where bonds strengthen under force is termed "catch bond behavior." This feature likely serves as a protective mechanism, enhancing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-role-colony-neurobiology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colony</a>'s cohesion, crucial for their survival.</p>



<p>“As you pull on typical bonds with some amount of force, they’re going to let go sooner, and their lifetime goes down - you’re weakening the bond by pulling on it. That is what you see in almost any passive system,” noted Professor Wagner. “But in living systems, because of their complexity, you can sometimes have catch bonds that hold on for longer durations under some range of applied force."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fire ants inspire the next wave of engineered materials</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, Professor Wagner believes that replicating catch bonds in engineered materials could revolutionize various fields. This adaptation could significantly improve the durability and functionality of biomedical implants, adhesives, fiber composites, and components used in soft robotics.</p>



<p>Inspired by collective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-queen-behavior-changes-based-on-social-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insect behaviors</a>, other researchers are also venturing into materials with responsive mechanical properties. </p>



<p>“A natural progression of this work is to answer how we can get the interactions between these ribbons or other soft building blocks to ‘catch’ under load like the fire ants and some biomolecular interactions do,” said Professor Wagner.</p>



<p>The ongoing research inspired by fire ants not only deepens our understanding of nature but also paves the way for innovations in material science, illustrating once again how much we can learn by observing the world around us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about fire ants</h2>



<p>Fire ants are remarkable engineers, constructing intricate nests that serve both as shelters and as a means of regulating their internal environment. </p>



<p>These ants start building by digging out soil with their mandibles, creating underground networks of tunnels and chambers. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fire ant nests</h3>



<p>The architecture of a fire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-nests-could-help-humans-build-better-transportation-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ant nest</a> is primarily designed to maintain a stable internal climate, protect against predators, and manage water ingress during rain.</p>



<p>The nests vary in depth and complexity based on the soil type and environmental conditions. In sandy soils, fire ants can build deeper and more elaborate tunnels, while in clay-rich soils, the structures might be shallower but spread wider.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Air flow and temperature&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Fire ants also cleverly use the soil they excavate to build mounds above ground, which help regulate the nest’s temperature and provide an emergency exit during floods.</p>



<p>These mounds are not just piles of dirt; they are engineered to optimize air flow and temperature. The tunnels within allow heat from the sun-warmed mound to circulate down and warm the nest on cool days, and conversely, let heat escape to the cooler earth when it’s hot above ground.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This natural air conditioning is crucial for the survival and productivity of the colony, as it helps maintain an optimal environment for raising their young.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2314772121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>. </p>



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Fire ants can teach us how to create stronger materials

In the face of natural disasters like flooding, fire ants...

<p>Climate change is exerting significant pressure on many marine organisms, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biohybrid-jellyfish-robotics-ocean-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jellyfish</a>, especially in the Arctic Ocean, could benefit from rising temperatures. </p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Center for Polar and Marine Research</a> (AWI) exposed eight widespread Arctic jellyfish species to future climate conditions using computer models. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jellyfish-benefit-from-climate-change-nbsp">Jellyfish benefit from climate change&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The findings revealed that by the second half of this century, all but one species could significantly expand their habitat northward. The lion’s mane jellyfish could even triple its habitat, potentially impacting the marine food web and Arctic fish populations.</p>



<p>In the future, jellyfish and other gelatinous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zooplankton-are-rapidly-escalating-the-threat-of-nanoplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zooplankton</a> could be some of the few organism groups to benefit from climate change. </p>



<p>Numerous studies have confirmed that cnidarians, ctenophores, and pelagic tunicates thrive in rising water temperatures, nutrient contamination, and overfishing.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-jellification-the-rise-of-jellyfish">Ocean jellification: The rise of jellyfish</h2>



<p>Combined, these factors could shift the ocean from a fish-dominated food web to one dominated by jellyfish. Many researchers warn of an impending “ocean jellification,” a rise in jellyfish populations worldwide.</p>



<p>“Jellyfish play an important part in the marine food web,” said lead author Dmitrii Pantiukhin, a postdoctoral fellow in ARJEL (Arctic Jellies), a junior research group specializing in Arctic jellyfish at AWI. </p>



<p>“Now that climate change is putting more stress on marine organisms, it can often give the gelatinous zooplankton a leg up on their competitors for food, like fish.” </p>



<p>“This in turn affects the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-food-webs-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food web</a> and ultimately the fish themselves: many types of jellyfish feed on fish larvae and eggs, which can slow or prevent the recovery of fish populations already under pressure, which are often also heavily fished by humans. As such, anyone interested in how fish, an important food source for us, will develop in the future, needs to keep an eye on the jellyfish.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-warming-in-the-arctic-ocean-nbsp">Rapid warming in the Arctic Ocean&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Despite their importance to marine ecosystems, gelatinous organisms are often overlooked in ecological studies. The study conducted by Pantiukhin and his team fills a crucial gap in our knowledge, focusing on the rapidly warming Arctic Ocean.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Of all the oceans, the Arctic Ocean is warming the fastest,” Pantiukhin said. “In addition, roughly 10 percent of global fishing yields come from the Arctic. As such, the High North is the ideal site for our research.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-projecting-climate-change-and-jellyfish-distribution-nbsp">Projecting climate change and jellyfish distribution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The physiology of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jellyfish-are-capable-of-more-complex-learning-than-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jellyfish</a>, including their optimal temperature ranges, is well-documented. The AWI team used three-dimensional species distribution models combined with the oceanographic components of the <a href="https://mpimet.mpg.de/en/research/department-climate-variability/earth-system-modeling-and-prediction" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute Earth System Model</a> (MPI-ESM1.2). </p>



<p>“Simulations of species distribution in the ocean are often two-dimensional, a bit like a map,” explained senior author Charlotte Havermans, head of the ARJEL junior research group. “But the distribution of jellyfish communities in particular is highly dependent on the specific water depth.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Consequently, we made our species models three-dimensional. Once we coupled them with the MPI’s Earth system model, we were able to calculate how the distribution of eight major jellyfish species could change from the reference period, 1950 to 2014, to the second half of this century, 2050 to 2099." </p>



<p>"For future years, we applied the climate scenario 'ssp370,' that is, a development path where greenhouse-gas emissions remain moderate to high.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tremendous-impacts-on-the-food-web">Tremendous impacts on the food web</h2>



<p>The results were striking: seven of the eight species, including comb jellies (<em>Beroe sp.</em>) and pelagic tunicates (<em>Oikopleura vanhoeffeni</em>), could expand their habitats significantly northward. </p>



<p>The lion’s mane jellyfish (<em>Cyanea capillata</em>) could nearly triple its habitat size. Only one species, <em>Sminthea arctica</em>, would experience a minor decrease in habitat.</p>



<p>“These results clearly show how dramatically <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tracking-arctic-climate-change-is-much-more-difficult-since-russia-invaded-ukraine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> could affect the ecosystems of the Arctic Ocean. The projected expansion of the jellyfish habitats could have tremendous, cascading impacts on the entire food web,” Pantiukhin said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-arctic-fish-will-feel-the-pressure-nbsp">Arctic fish will feel the pressure&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One crucial question remains: how will Arctic fish stocks be affected by this jellyfish expansion?&nbsp;</p>



<p>“There are many indications that key Arctic fish species like the polar cod, whose larvae and eggs are frequently eaten by jellyfish, will feel the pressure even more,” said Havermans.</p>



<p>“Therefore, our study offers an important basis for further research in this field. And management plans in the fishing sector urgently need to bear in mind this dynamic development in order to avoid the collapse of commercially exploited stocks but manage them sustainably.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/lno.12568" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Limnology and Oceanography</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Jellyfish may soon rule Arctic waters as climate pushes them north

Climate change is exerting significant pressure on many marine organisms,...

<p>In another example of how truth is often stranger than fiction, scientists have taken a significant step towards turning the sci-fi concept of "warp drives" into a feasible reality. </p>



<p>According to Einstein's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory of relativity</a>, going faster than the speed of light is off-limits in the real world. For this reason, warp drives, like the one powering spaceships in Star Wars and other science fiction movies, have always been firmly in the realm of imagination -- until now.</p>



<p>New research, led by Dr. Jared Fuchs from <a href="https://www.appliedphysics.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Physics</a> and published in the prestigious <em>Classical and Quantum Gravity</em> journal, presents a new solution to one of the long-standing challenges in realizing warp drive technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-warp-drive-concept">Traditional warp drive concept</h2>



<p>The traditional sci-fi concept of a warp drive involves distorting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spacetime</a> in a very specific way: compressing it in front of the ship and expanding it behind. </p>



<p>In theory, this would allow the ship to effectively travel faster-than-light without actually exceeding the speed limit locally.</p>



<p>However, previous studies of this idea suggested that it would require exotic forms of matter with "negative energy density." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-negative-energy-density">Understanding negative energy density</h2>



<p>In our everyday experience, energy is always positive. Even in a vacuum, there is a small amount of positive energy called the "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/may-the-4th-be-with-you-chemistry-of-star-wars-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vacuum energy</a>" or "zero-point energy." </p>



<p>This is a consequence of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>, which states that there are always fluctuations in the energy of a system, even at the lowest possible energy state.</p>



<p>The existence of negative energy density is highly speculative and problematic within the framework of known physics. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-laws-thermodynamics-follow-entropy-rule/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laws of thermodynamics</a> and the energy conditions in general relativity seem to prohibit the existence of large amounts of negative energy density.</p>



<p>Some theories, such as the Casimir effect and certain quantum field theories, do predict the existence of small amounts of negative energy density under specific conditions. However, these effects are typically very small and confined to microscopic scales.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-warp-drive-technology">New approach to warp drive technology</h2>



<p>This is where the new study comes in. Applied Physics researchers identified a new way in which warp technology might one day be possible. The team introduced the concept of a "constant-velocity subluminal warp drive" aligned with the principles of relativity.</p>



<p>The new model eliminates the need for exotic energy, using instead a sophisticated blend of traditional and novel gravitational techniques to create a warp bubble that can transport objects at high speeds within the bounds of known physics.</p>



<p>"This study changes the conversation about warp drives," said lead author Dr. Fuchs. "By demonstrating a first-of-its-kind model, we've shown that warp drives might not be relegated to science fiction."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warp-factory-enabling-warp-drive-spacetimes">Warp factory: Enabling warp drive spacetimes</h2>



<p>The team's theoretical model for a new type of warp bubble uses traditional and innovative gravitational techniques, made possible with their publicly-available tool <a href="https://appliedphysics.org/warp-drive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warp Factory</a>.</p>



<p>This solution enables the transportation of objects at high but subluminal speeds without the need for exotic energy sources. This can be achieved by engineering warp drive spacetimes to gravitate like ordinary matter, which is a first-of-its-kind solution.</p>



<p>"Although such a design would still require a considerable amount of energy, it demonstrates that warp effects can be achieved without <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/graviton-like-particle-observed-in-quantum-material-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exotic forms of matter</a>," added Dr. Christopher Helmerich, co-author of the study. "These findings pave the way for future reductions in warp drive energy requirements."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-g-forces-for-passengers">No g-forces for passengers</h2>



<p>Unlike in planes or rockets, passengers in a warp craft experience no g-forces. This is a stark contrast to some sci-fi fantasies. The team's research shows how we might construct such a craft using regular matter.</p>



<p>"While we're not yet packing for interstellar voyages, this achievement heralds a new era of possibilities," explained Gianni Martire, CEO of Applied Physics. "We're continuing to make steady progress as humanity embarks on the Warp Age."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dawn-of-faster-than-light-travel">Dawn of faster-than-light travel?</h2>



<p>The team at Applied Physics is now focused on addressing these challenges as they continue to refine their models and collaborate across disciplines and institutions to turn this once-fantastical dream into reality.</p>



<p>As we stand on the threshold of a new era in space exploration, the prospect of warp drives becoming a reality tantalizes us more than ever. With each new discovery and breakthrough, we inch closer to the stars and the boundless possibilities that await us in the vast expanse of the cosmos.</p>



<p>As humanity begins the chase for faster-than-light travel, perhaps using warp drives, we can only imagine the incredible adventures and revelations that the universe has in store for us.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1361-6382/ad26aa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Classical and Quantum Gravity</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Faster-than-light 'warp speed' interstellar travel now thought to be possible

In another example of how truth is often stranger than...

<p>A recent discovery in Brazil's Ubajara National Park is challenging our understanding of primate intelligence and tool use.&nbsp;Capuchin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rhesus-monkeys-quickly-learn-that-patience-is-rewarding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monkeys</a>,&nbsp;long known for their cleverness,&nbsp;have been observed using tools found in their natural habitat to unearth hidden food sources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This remarkable behavior,&nbsp;captured on video by researchers,&nbsp;showcases the intricate strategies and adaptability of these small primates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By studying their tool use,&nbsp;scientists are gaining valuable insights into the evolution of cognitive abilities across species,&nbsp;potentially reshaping our understanding of the origins of tool use and intelligence.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tools-used-by-capuchin-monkeys">Tools used by capuchin monkeys</h2>



<p>In the depths of Brazil's Ubajara National Park,&nbsp;pint-sized capuchin monkeys have been caught on camera putting on a masterclass in tool use.&nbsp;These clever critters aren't just monkeying around; they're strategically excavating underground nests to snag delicious trapdoor spiders.</p>



<p>Scientists recorded 214 instances of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deforestation-changes-social-behavior-in-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monkeys</a> showing off their digging prowess,&nbsp;using a variety of techniques:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hands-only</h3>



<p>Capuchin monkeys sometimes rely solely on their paws to dig for food. They use their hands to scrape and excavate the soil, showcasing their dexterity and strength.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stone-digging</h3>



<p>These monkeys select specific rocks to assist in digging. They choose smaller, lighter sandstone rocks to break up compacted soil, increasing their efficiency in reaching underground food sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stick-probing</h3>



<p>Capuchin monkeys use sticks as tools to reach into deep burrows. They use the sticks to probe and extract food, such as spiders and their egg sacs, from tight spaces.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stone-stick combo</h3>



<p>Capuchin monkeys combine the use of stones and sticks for digging. They use a stone to break the surface soil, then a stick to probe deeper, making their tool use more effective and versatile.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasonal-tool-use">Seasonal tool use </h2>



<p>These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-monkeys-are-much-smarter-than-we-thought-they-were/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monkeys</a> aren't just clever; they're adaptable too. Researchers observed that capuchin monkeys altered their digging tactics based on the season and the available tools. </p>



<p>They showed an ability to select the appropriate tool for the conditions, whether it was a dry summer day or a muddy monsoon season. This adaptability highlights their intelligence and resourcefulness in varying environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkey-see-monkey-dig">Monkey see, monkey dig</h2>



<p>The use of tools among capuchin monkeys isn't a new discovery.&nbsp;Scientists have been documenting these "Monkey Stone Age" behaviors for a while now.&nbsp;In fact,&nbsp;it's not just capuchins who are handy with tools; orangutans have also been observed using plants for medicinal purposes.</p>



<p>The discovery of tool use in capuchin monkeys dates back to 2004 when botanist Alicia Ibáñez observed white-faced capuchins using rocks to open sea almonds and shellfish in Panama's Coiba National Park.&nbsp;Since then,&nbsp;similar behaviors have been observed in other capuchin species across South America.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tool-time-in-the-rainforest">Tool time in the rainforest</h2>



<p>For 21 months,&nbsp;researchers from the <a href="https://www5.usp.br" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of São Paulo</a> closely observed these digging monkeys,&nbsp;documenting their every move.&nbsp;They found that the monkeys were quite picky about their tools,&nbsp;choosing lighter sandstone rocks for digging compared to the heavier rocks they use for cracking nuts.</p>



<p>"We predict that capuchin monkeys use hands-only in looser soil, and stone-digging in compacted and tougher soil," noted the researchers. They also suggested that capuchin monkeys actively choose stone tool positions, which increases efficiency when digging in tough soil.</p>



<p>The monkeys showed a preference for using sticks when raiding spider burrows,&nbsp;sometimes even using their free hand to block the burrow exit and prevent their prey from escaping.</p>



<p>"Adult males sometimes hold the probe in one hand and place the other hand on the side of the burrow, apparently to prevent the spider from falling and running away," explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkey-tool-use">Monkey tool use</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers found that using tools didn't necessarily improve the monkeys' success rate in obtaining food. Whether they used tools or just their bare hands, their success rate remained around 83 percent. This raises the question: why use tools at all?</p>



<p>The researchers speculate that the monkeys might use tools to target larger prey or to reduce the time and effort required for digging. Tools could help them access food that is harder to reach or requires more effort to obtain, making their foraging process more efficient.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monkey-stone-age">Monkey Stone Age</h2>



<p>As researchers continue to study the complex behaviors of these clever capuchin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-snow-monkeys-have-learned-to-fish-for-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monkeys</a>,&nbsp;we're getting a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of tool use and intelligence in primates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It seems the Stone Age isn't just for humans anymore; our primate cousins are proving that they too have a knack for using tools to get what they want.</p>



<p>This discovery raises intriguing questions about the origins of tool use and the cognitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-cues-initiate-the-brains-decision-to-cooperate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abilities</a> of animals.&nbsp;It's a reminder that the animal kingdom is full of surprises,&nbsp;and there is still much to learn about our fellow creatures on this planet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a class="" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-61243-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Scientific Reports</em></a>.</p>



<p>Video Credit: Capuchin Culture Project in <em>Scientific Reports</em> (2024)</p>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Capuchin monkeys seen on video using clever tools to gather food

A recent discovery in Brazil's Ubajara National Park is challenging...

<p>New research led by <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> suggests that chatbots, often perceived as neutral, may actually reinforce existing ideologies and contribute to increased polarization on contentious issues. </p>



<p>This study challenges the common belief that chatbots provide impartial information and reveals how conversational search systems might deepen societal divisions and make individuals more susceptible to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-deception-is-a-growing-issue-that-we-cannot-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manipulation</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biased-responses-from-chatbots-nbsp">Biased responses from chatbots&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Because people are reading a summary paragraph generated by AI, they think they’re getting unbiased, fact-based answers,” said lead author Ziang Xiao, an assistant professor of computer science at Johns Hopkins who specializes in human-AI interactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Even if a chatbot isn’t designed to be biased, its answers reflect the biases or leanings of the person asking the questions. So really, people are getting the answers they want to hear.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-chatbots-affect-online-search-behaviors-nbsp">How chatbots affect online search behaviors&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The scientists explored how chatbots affect online search behaviors by comparing interactions with different search systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Participants, numbering 272, were asked to express their initial thoughts on various controversial topics like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-predict-health-deterioration-in-hospital-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health care</a>, student loans, or sanctuary cities. They were then directed to gather more information using either a chatbot or a traditional search engine developed for the study. </p>



<p>After reviewing the search results, participants wrote a second essay and responded to questions about the topic. They were also exposed to two articles with opposing viewpoints and asked to evaluate the trustworthiness of the information and the extremity of the views.</p>



<p>The study revealed that because chatbots provide a narrower scope of information and echo users’ pre-existing beliefs, participants who used them were more entrenched in their original positions and reacted more strongly against opposing viewpoints.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echo-chamber-effect">Echo chamber effect</h2>



<p>“People tend to seek information that aligns with their viewpoints, a behavior that often traps them in an echo chamber of like-minded opinions,” explained Xiao. “We found that this echo chamber effect is stronger with the chatbots than traditional web searches.”</p>



<p>This effect arises partly because of how users interact with chatbots - posing full questions instead of keywords, leading to responses that are narrowly focused on either the benefits or drawbacks of an issue, based on the phrasing of the question.</p>



<p>“With chatbots, people tend to be more expressive and formulate questions in a more conversational way. It’s a function of how we speak,” Xiao said. “But our language can be used against us.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-for-a-more-polarized-society-nbsp">Potential for a more polarized society&nbsp;</h2>



<p>AI developers can design chatbots to detect clues in questions that indicate a user’s preferences and biases, allowing the AI to tailor its responses accordingly. For example, the researchers tested a chatbot programmed with a hidden agenda to agree with users, which intensified the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-48-million-americans-deny-that-climate-change-is-real/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echo chamber</a> effect.</p>



<p>Attempts to mitigate this effect by training a chatbot to offer contrary opinions proved ineffective, as did efforts to encourage fact-checking by linking to source information - few participants followed these links.</p>



<p>“Given AI-based systems are becoming easier to build, there are going to be opportunities for malicious actors to leverage AIs to make a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-media-behavior-groups-people-into-opposing-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polarized society</a>. Creating agents that always present opinions from the other side is the most obvious intervention, but we found they don’t work,” said Xiao.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-chatbots-nbsp">More about chatbots&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Chatbots are computer programs designed to simulate conversation with human users, primarily through the internet. They are widely used in customer service to provide users with instant responses to inquiries and to handle simple tasks, freeing up human agents for more complex issues.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Chatbots are built using various technologies, including predefined scripts and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lawless-superintelligence-zero-evidence-ai-control-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a>. AI chatbots, in particular, can learn from interactions and improve over time, becoming more efficient in understanding and responding to user requests. </p>



<p>They are implemented in various platforms, such as websites, messaging apps, and virtual assistants, making them accessible and convenient for a broad range of uses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From booking appointments to providing weather updates and supporting e-commerce transactions, chatbots have become an integral part of digital interaction.</p>



<p>The findings of the study were presented at the <a href="https://chi2022.acm.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Association of Computing Machinery’s CHI conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems</a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Chatbots are not impartial - they tell us what we want to hear

New research led by Johns Hopkins University suggests that chatbots,...

<p>If you thought <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> was just for humans, think again. A fascinating new study has revealed that sperm whales, those majestic giants of the deep, have their own unique "vocal styles" – and they might even be picking up tips from their neighbors.</p>



<p>Imagine if your way of speaking – your rhythm,&nbsp;your pauses,&nbsp;your inflections – was as distinct as your fingerprint.&nbsp;That's the idea behind vocal style.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Scientists have long known that sperm <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/acoustic-tagging-helps-decode-whale-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> communicate using rhythmic patterns of clicks called "codas," but this study has delved deeper into the&nbsp;<em class="">structure</em>&nbsp;of these codas,&nbsp;revealing vocal patterns that are unique to each whale.</p>



<p>The research team,&nbsp;from Project Cetacean Translation Initiative (<a href="https://www.projectceti.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CETI</a>) and collaborating institutions,&nbsp;developed a new method to analyze these click patterns,&nbsp;creating a kind of "vocal fingerprint" for each whale or whale clan.&nbsp;They then used this information to explore how these styles might be influenced by social interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vocal-style-of-whale-clans">The vocal style of whale clans</h2>



<p>Sperm whales are known for their complex social structures,&nbsp;living in multilevel societies that facilitate the transmission of knowledge and cultural behaviors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These societies are divided into "clans," groups of whales that share a common vocal repertoire.&nbsp;Think of it like having a regional accent – you can often tell where someone is from based on how they speak.</p>



<p>But what if your accent started to change based on who you were hanging out with?&nbsp;That's what seems to be happening with sperm whales.&nbsp;The study found that whales living in close proximity to other clans were more likely to develop similar vocal styles,&nbsp;even if they weren't part of the same <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/language-like-patterns-decoded-in-sperm-whale-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clan</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-learning-in-whale-vocal-communication">Social learning in whale vocal communication</h2>



<p>"The increase in similarity of non-identity coda vocal styles is most likely the result of social learning," explained lead author Antonio Leitao. </p>



<p>"Identity codas are consistently maintained to allow the recognition of fellow clan members,&nbsp;but we believe that social learning between clans leads to a more similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baleen-whales-cannot-escape-human-noise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vocal</a> style with other whales that are within acoustic range."</p>



<p>This social learning isn't just about mimicry,&nbsp;though.&nbsp;It's about whales adapting their communication styles based on their social environment,&nbsp;much like we humans do.&nbsp;It's a testament to the intelligence and adaptability of these incredible creatures.</p>



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



<p>The Atlantic dataset comprised two different clans and had rich annotations of the coda types recorded, the identity of the vocalizing whales, and their social relations. The Pacific dataset collected since 1978 was also used to determine the whales’ clan membership based on the similarity of their vocal style.</p>



<p>These vast datasets allowed the researchers to create detailed "subcoda trees" for each whale or clan, revealing the intricate patterns that make up their unique vocal styles. Understanding how whales communicate has important implications for conservation efforts.  </p>



<p>"Our results strengthen previous results on the use of identity codas as symbolic markers, while supporting cultural transmission and social learning of vocalizations among whales of different clans," noted senior author Giovanni Petri. </p>



<p>This means that protecting whale populations isn't just about protecting individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-pollution-is-increasingly-disrupting-whale-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>; it's about protecting their rich cultural heritage.</p>



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



<p>This study is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to understanding whale vocal styles and communication. </p>



<p>The authors suggest that future research could delve deeper into the mechanisms behind this social learning, exploring questions like: How exactly do whales learn from each other? What are the benefits of adapting one's vocal style? How does this learning impact the overall culture of a whale clan? </p>



<p>By investigating these questions, scientists hope to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities of whale communication and the role social learning plays in their societies.</p>



<p>The study's findings have implications beyond the world of whales. The methodology developed by the research team could be used to study communication in other species. </p>



<p>Future research may give us a deeper understanding of how social learning shapes vocal and cultural transmission in the animal kingdom. Who knows, maybe one day we'll even be able to crack the code of whale language altogether.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://elifesciences.org/reviewed-preprints/96362v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a></em>.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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Sperm whales learn the vocal styles and dialects of their neighbors

If you thought communication was just for humans, think again. A...

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



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



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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. </p>



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



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

<p>The vet had never seen anything like this. The story was truly hard to believe. What was also perplexing was the cat’s relaxing demeanor. It’s like it knew it was getting help.</p>
<p>Usually, stray cats are aggressive and wild but this cat seemed to have a liking for humans. Nathan asked the vet to check it for a microchip. Perhaps if it actually had an owner, he could reunite them.</p>


Friendly Cat