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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a vibrant and detailed depiction of the Gulf of Oman. The image was captured by the primary sensor on the PACE satellite. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pace-satellite-nbsp">PACE satellite&nbsp;</h2>



NASA launched the PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on February 8, 2024. The mission marks a significant advancement in our ability to study Earth’s oceanic and atmospheric systems.&nbsp;



The PACE satellite is equipped with a state-of-the-art Ocean Color Instrument (OCI), designed to capture intricate details of ocean phenomena that are often invisible to the naked eye. 



This technology aims to provide new insights into the complex interactions between the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-news-ocean-oxygen-loss-may-ultimately-reverse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> and the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-compelling-visual-data-nbsp">Compelling visual data&nbsp;</h2>



Less than two months after its launch, the PACE satellite has already begun delivering compelling visual data, thanks to the efforts of NASA engineer Joseph Knuble and his team. 



Knuble, who serves as the lead instrument systems engineer for OCI, compiled a remarkable gallery of 36 images.



This standout image of the Gulf of Oman has been created using a combination of red, green, and blue wavelengths of light, specifically at 630, 532, and 465 nanometers, respectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gulf-of-oman-image">Gulf of Oman image</h2>



The Gulf of Oman image selected by Knuble is not a natural-color representation but is enhanced to highlight specific details within the water. 



This technique allows for a more vivid portrayal of oceanic features, such as the swirling bands of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phytoplankton-remain-surprisingly-active-underneath-arctic-sea-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phytoplankton</a> bloom. 



Jeremy Werdell, PACE project scientist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, noted: "The image highlights the beauty and complexity of that area."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phytoplankton-bloom-in-the-gulf-of-oman-nbsp">Phytoplankton bloom in the Gulf of Oman&nbsp;</h2>



Phytoplankton blooms, like the one visible in the Gulf of Oman, occur when environmental conditions - such as light availability and nutrient levels - are favorable, leading to rapid growth. These blooms can have significant ecological impacts.&nbsp;



The swirls of green seen in the image likely include Noctiluca scintillans, a type of marine dinoflagellate known for its striking appearances. 



However, despite their beauty, Noctiluca blooms deplete <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cautionary-tale-todays-ocean-oxygen-levels-may-have-cascading-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen levels</a> in the water, resulting in hypoxia and creating dead zones that severely impact marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-dynamics-in-the-arabian-sea-nbsp">Changing dynamics in the Arabian Sea&nbsp;</h2>



The changing dynamics in the Arabian Sea are also noteworthy. Historically rich in diatoms, vital components of the marine food chain, the region now sees a dominance of Noctiluca. 



This shift could be attributed to changes in water stratification and nutrient availability - with Noctiluca thriving under conditions that are less favorable for diatoms.



One of the most impressive aspects of the OCI is its ability to detect hundreds of different wavelengths of light. 



This capability provides a critical tool for identifying and differentiating between various types of phytoplankton from space. Previously, such determinations could only be made through direct water samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-health-of-marine-ecosystems-nbsp">Tracking the health of marine ecosystems&nbsp;</h2>



The PACE mission is poised to transform our understanding of oceanic and atmospheric interactions. 



By providing detailed, high-resolution images and data, the satellite will enable scientists to monitor environmental changes, track the health of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>, and better understand the global climate system. 



This mission highlights the importance of continued investment in space technology and research, offering a clearer view of our planet's intricate and changing natural systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-gulf-of-oman">More about the Gulf of Oman</h2>



The Gulf of Oman is a strategically significant body of water located in the Middle East, connecting the Arabian Sea with the Strait of Hormuz, which then leads into the Persian Gulf. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transportation-nbsp">Transportation&nbsp;</h3>



The Gulf of Oman is particularly important for its role in global oil transportation. A large percentage of the world's petroleum, as it is shipped from the oil-rich countries of the Persian Gulf, passes through the Strait of Hormuz into the Gulf of Oman and then to various destinations across the globe.&nbsp;



This makes the area not only economically significant but also a hot spot for geopolitical tensions and security concerns.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-ecosystems-nbsp">Marine ecosystems&nbsp;</h3>



Ecologically, the Gulf of Oman is diverse, hosting various species of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-noise-is-getting-louder-what-does-this-mean-for-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> which support local fishing communities. However, the area faces environmental challenges, including the risk of oil spills and the impacts of industrialization and maritime traffic which threaten its marine ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-history-nbsp">Cultural history&nbsp;</h3>



Additionally, the Gulf of Oman has a rich cultural history, influenced by the various civilizations that have inhabited its shores and traded across its waters. This history is reflected in the diverse cultures of the region today, making it a place of significant cultural heritage.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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The Gulf of Oman in the Middle East

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

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut photograph of Fayzabad, a culturally diverse city in the Kokcha River valley of Northern Afghanistan. The photo was captured as the International Space Station passed over central Asia.



Fayzabad is the capital of the Badakhshan Province. It is located in a mountainous part of northeastern Afghanistan at an elevation of about 4,000 feet.



“The city is situated along the Kokcha River, which flows northward within a deep river valley surrounded by the Hindu Kush Mountains and eventually discharges into the Amu Darya River,” noted NASA.



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



According to <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the climate of Fayzabad varies from cold semi-arid to Mediterranean-influenced warm-summer humid continental.



The summer months are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;



The winter months are cold, with average low temperatures often dropping below freezing - sometimes reaching as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;



The region receives moderate precipitation, mostly during the spring and winter. Snowfall is common in winter, adding to the mountainous region's picturesque landscape.&nbsp;



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



Historically, Fayzabad has been a center of learning and culture, though its development has been hampered by years of conflict.&nbsp;



Despite these challenges, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> remains a vital component of the region, which is known for its traditional crafts including weaving and embroidery.



Cultural life in Fayzabad is influenced by its predominantly Tajik population, along with other ethnic groups such as Uzbeks and Hazaras. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional Afghan flavors, incorporating ingredients like rice, meat, and a variety of spices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-use-changes-nbsp">Land use changes&nbsp;</h2>



“This territory has experienced notable changes in its land use in recent decades, especially with commercial and administrative growth near the airport,” noted NASA.



“Among the changes: a new airstrip built west of the Kokcha River. However, mountains hem in the city and limit how much development is possible.”



“Despite these topographical barriers, some development has spread into hilly areas south of Fayzabad. Green vegetation is mostly confined to mountain valleys, stream channels, and the Kokcha River floodplain.”&nbsp;



“The Kokcha River meanders through the valley, providing a vital water resource for the region. Fields of predominantly wheat and rice cover much of the floodplain, though these flat areas are mixed with residential, industrial, and commercial activity as well.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kokcha-river-nbsp">Kokcha River&nbsp;</h2>



The Kokcha River originates in the Hindu Kush mountains. It stretches approximately 360 kilometers before joining the Amu Darya, one of Central Asia's major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a>.&nbsp;



The Kokcha River traverses rugged terrain, providing vital irrigation for agriculture in the region and supporting local communities' livelihoods.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-amount-of-water-do-earths-rivers-hold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> basin features diverse landscapes that include mountainous areas and fertile valleys.&nbsp;



Throughout history, the Kokcha River has played a crucial role in the region's cultural and economic development, serving as a natural resource for the inhabitants and influencing settlement patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northern-afghanistan">Northern Afghanistan </h2>



Northern Afghanistan is known for its diverse landscape, featuring fertile plains, rugged mountains, and strategic rivers such as the Amu Darya. 



Historically, northern Afghanistan has been an important cultural and trade center. The city of Balkh, often referred to as "the mother of cities," is a hub of early civilization and a major stop on the Silk Road.



Northern Afghanistan has experienced periods of relative stability compared to the rest of the country, though it has also seen conflict - particularly during the Soviet invasion, the civil war of the 1990s, and the more recent Taliban resurgence.



The region's economy traditionally revolves around agriculture. Wheat, cotton, and fruits are key crops. In addition, there are vast mineral resources, although instability has hindered their full exploitation. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-northern-afghanistan">Wildlife of Northern Afghanistan </h2>



In mountainous regions of Northern Afghanistan, such as the Hindu Kush, you can find species like the elusive snow leopard, which is well-adapted to the rugged terrain. 



Other mountain-dwelling animals include the Asiatic black bear and the Siberian ibex, both of which thrive in the high-altitude environments.



The plains and valleys are home to various species of antelope, such as the goitered gazelle, as well as foxes, wolves, and smaller mammals like hares. 



Birdlife is also abundant, with species ranging from eagles and vultures in the mountains to waterfowl along rivers and wetlands. The region’s rivers and lakes, though under environmental pressure, support fish species and amphibians.



However, many of these species are under threat. Decades of war and instability have impacted conservation efforts, with illegal hunting and habitat destruction taking a toll on populations. 



Some areas, such as the Wakhan Corridor in the northeast, remain relatively untouched and serve as crucial refuges for wildlife, where rare species like the Marco Polo sheep still roam. These havens are increasingly important for conservation efforts in the region.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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Fayzabad and the Kokcha River valley 

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1559, located around 35 million light-years away in the little-observed southern constellation Reticulum. The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fuel-for-star-formation">Fuel for star formation </h2>



"The data featured in this portrait make use of two of Webb’s instruments: the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI) and Near-InfraRed Camera (NIRCam)," noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



"Here MIRI captures the glow of interstellar dust grains, which trace out the interstellar medium, the fuel for future star formation. NIRCam shows the light from stars, even young stars hidden behind prodigious amounts of dust. NIRCam also captures emission from ionised nebulae around young stars."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-reveals-galaxies-in-new-light">Webb reveals galaxies in new light</h2>



According to ESA, the data was collected by the <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/phangs/home">PHANGS team</a> as part of a program in which Webb will observe 55 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a> that have also been mapped by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) radio telescope, the Hubble Space Telescope, and more.&nbsp;



"By combining Webb’s unprecedented view of the dust and stars with data from these other facilities, the team aims to obtain a new, highly detailed view of how stars are born, live, and die in galaxies across the Universe."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-1559-a-loner-in-space">NGC 1559: A loner in space</h2>



Although NGC 1559 appears to sit close to one of our nearest neighbors in the sky - the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) - this is just a trick of perspective, noted ESA.



While it is part of the Reticulum constellation, NGC 1559 is not part of the Local Group of galaxies but instead resides in a more distant region of space.



"In reality, NGC 1559 is physically nowhere near the LMC in space; in fact it truly is a loner, lacking the company of any nearby galaxies or membership of any galaxy cluster."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-1559">Star formation in NGC 1559</h2>



NGC 1559 is notable for its active star formation and strong magnetic fields. It has also been the site of several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, making it of particular interest to astronomers studying stellar evolution and the lifecycle of stars.



The structure of NGC 1559 includes well-defined spiral arms that are rich in young, hot stars and regions of ionized gas, indicative of ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



The galaxy’s central bar is believed to play a role in driving gas towards the core, fueling both the star formation and the activity around its nucleus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-extragalactic-wonder">An extragalactic wonder</h2>



Despite being relatively small compared to larger galaxies like the Milky Way, NGC 1559 is an important object for understanding how barred spiral galaxies evolve and the processes that trigger supernovae.



The galaxy’s remote location and active nature make it a fascinating subject of study in the field of extragalactic astronomy. The isolation of NGC 1559 allows for a clearer view of its structure without much interference from neighboring galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barred-spiral-galaxies">Barred spiral galaxies</h2>



Barred spiral galaxies are a type of spiral galaxy characterized by a central bar-shaped structure composed of stars. This bar extends out from the core and connects to the galaxy's spiral arms, which swirl outward in a graceful pattern.



Scientists believe that the bar plays a crucial role in the evolution of the galaxy, funneling gas towards the core and potentially triggering star formation or feeding a central black hole. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our own galaxy, is an example of a barred spiral. These galaxies are quite common in the universe, making up about two-thirds of all observed spiral galaxies.



The bar itself is thought to be a temporary feature, developing as the galaxy matures and possibly disappearing over time as the dynamics of the stars change. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reticulum-constellation">The Reticulum constellation</h2>



The Reticulum constellation is a small, faint constellation in the southern sky. Its name means "the reticle" in Latin, which refers to the crosshairs in an eyepiece of a telescope. 



The constellation was named in the 18th century by the French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille to honor the reticle he used in his scientific instruments. It is one of the 88 modern constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.



Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, A. Leroy, J. Lee and the PHANGS Team



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Spiral galaxy NGC 1559 is a loner in outer space

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132.



The nebula is located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).



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



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



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star in visible light is actually a less massive companion, while the fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. This star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

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



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



“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 <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“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.”



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



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;



The star 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.



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.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-blue-giants">Significance of blue giants</h2>



<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.



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



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.



The 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>.



According to ESA, NGC 3783 is a&nbsp;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.



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



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



The NGC 3783 group is part of the larger Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster, which itself is a massive collection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shapes-of-one-million-galaxies-hint-at-the-universes-origins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and galaxy clusters located primarily in the constellations of Hydra and Centaurus.



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.



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. 



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Luminous galaxy NGC 3783 and a blue giant star

Recent global surveys reveal a surprising disconnect - most people, including those from regions hardest-hit by climate change, don't understand the term "climate justice."



These findings bear critical implications for communication and advocacy efforts in the fight against global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-climate-justice">Understanding climate justice</h2>



The international study was led by researchers in the School of Psychology at the <a href="https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nottingham</a>.



"Climate justice is increasingly prominent in climate change communication and advocacy but little is known about public understanding of the concept or how widely it resonates with different groups," wrote the researchers. 



The study engaged 5,627 adults across 11 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Japan, the Netherlands, Nigeria, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 



The research marked a departure from previous studies, extending its reach beyond Europe and North America.



The study revealed that while people might fail to link their understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a> to climate justice, they recognize the social, economic, and historical injustices forming the crisis's fabric.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beliefs-aligned-with-climate-justice">Beliefs aligned with climate justice </h2>



The researchers found that two-thirds of the respondents were not familiar with the term "climate justice." Despite this, the majority expressed support for beliefs aligned with climate justice.



These beliefs include the understanding that: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-threatens-the-health-of-billions-of-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change has more severe impacts on the poor</a> (78% agreement); those hit hardest should have a say in climate change decisions (78%); and capitalism and colonialism are elements underpinning the crisis (70%).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-climate-change">Impacts of climate change</h2>



Climate justice recognizes that climate change impacts are uneven across society, affecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disaster-subculture-helps-people-cope-on-the-frontline-of-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marginalised groups</a> most adversely. These are the groups often overlooked or underrepresented in selecting and implementing societal responses to climate change.



Furthermore, climate change-related policy-making processes often fail to acknowledge the politically voiceless communities' legitimate interests, leading to their further disenfranchisement. 



"Indigenous peoples, women, low-income earners, racialized minorities and other marginalized groups face the greatest risks from climate change," wrote the study authors. "Ill-considered climate policies can worsen the disproportionate burden on such groups."



This climate justice perspective allows for a critical examination of the intersections between the climate crisis and deep-seated social injustices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endorsement-of-climate-justice-principles">Endorsement of climate justice principles </h2>



The research was led by Dr. Charles Ogunbode, a professor of applied psychology at the University of Nottingham.



"Taking account of climate justice as we respond to a changing climate is key to orientating our societies towards solutions that are fair and equitable. It is ironic that research tends to be limited to what people in more affluent regions believe about climate change and climate justice," said Dr. Ogunbode.



"Citizens of frontline i.e. climate-vulnerable countries, are largely confined to being the subjects of climate discourse, as opposed to active participants. The unbalanced discourse matches the inequalities that characterize&nbsp;climate change&nbsp;itself."



"By revealing the wide endorsement of climate justice principles around the world, we hope that climate advocates will leverage our research to further pressurize policymakers and leaders to enact just responses to the climate crisis."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inequities-in-climate-action">Inequities in climate action</h2>



The absence of a clear understanding of the term "climate justice" has profound implications for global climate action.



When people do not recognize the link between social inequities and climate change, they may struggle to support policies or actions designed to address these intersections. 



Experts warn that this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-disinformation-is-a-persistent-scourge-in-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gap in understanding</a> could hinder the progress of much-needed climate solutions that prioritize the most vulnerable communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deeper-understanding-of-climate-justice">A deeper understanding of climate justice</h2>



Moreover, the failure to integrate the concept of climate justice into mainstream climate discussions risks perpetuating the very injustices that climate change exacerbates. 



Without widespread comprehension, efforts to craft equitable responses to climate challenges may overlook the needs of those most affected. 



This highlights the importance of not only educating the public on the scientific facts of climate change but also on the socio-economic dimensions that drive its unequal impact.



By raising awareness and promoting a deeper understanding of climate justice, advocates hope to inspire more inclusive and fair <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-decades-of-climate-policy-what-works-and-what-doesnt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate policies</a> that reflect the voices and needs of marginalized communities across the globe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-02168-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.



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Most people don't know what 'climate justice' is, but support it anyway

Recent global surveys reveal a surprising disconnect - most people,...

In the world of scientific discovery, some of the most exciting breakthroughs happen by accident. Researchers often begin with a clear plan, only to find that nature has its own surprises, such as viruses that look like a sunflower. 



This was exactly the case for a group of scientists, who, while working with bacteriophages - viruses that target and eat bacteria - stumbled upon something unexpected. What they discovered were tiny, sunflower-like viruses that could transform the way we approach disease detection and treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viruses-that-look-like-a-sunflower">Viruses that look like a sunflower?</h2>



It seems that even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-can-hide-in-lung-cells-and-cause-chronic-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiniest of lifeforms</a> enjoy getting a little creative sometimes. The McMaster team was left stunned at their lab slides when they observed the bacteriophages, often referred to as phages, forming into 3D configurations closely resembling sunflowers.



But these tiny "flowers" were not your average garden variety. They were just two-tenths of a millimeter across.



Isn't it surprising how sometimes, momentous discoveries can pop up in the most unexpected places?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-formation-of-phages">Unexpected formation of phages</h2>



What sparked this peculiar metamorphosis? The answer lies in the process the researchers had used to prepare the phages for viewing. 



In order to keep the viruses alive, the researchers decided on the path less traveled by using high-pressure carbon dioxide instead of the standard and more lethal heat or solvent-based methods.



And the result? An unexpected yet promising microstructure that they had been aiming to synthesize for years. 



Study lead author Lei Tian, who led the research during his time as a PhD student and subsequently, a postdoctoral research fellow at <a href="https://www.mcmaster.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McMaster</a>, said his initial intention was only to preserve the virus structure. But nature, as always, had other plans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-sunflower-formations">Significance of the sunflower formations</h2>



What makes this haphazard structure so important? Well, it turns out to be 100 times more capable than unlinked phages at locating their bacterial targets.



This means that these sunflower-like formations could open up a world of opportunities in detecting and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-a-virus-capable-of-causing-a-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">combating numerous diseases</a>. And the best part - all of this is achieved via natural materials and processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incredible-insight-on-sunflower-like-viruses">Incredible insight on sunflower-like viruses</h2>



“It was an accidental discovery,” said study co-author and mechanical engineer Tohid Didar. "When we took them out of the high-pressure chamber and saw these beautiful flowers, it completely blew our minds." 



"It took us two years to discover how and why this happened and opened the door to being able to create similar structures with other protein-based materials.”



Zeinab Hosseinidoust, senior author of the study, has been exploring the potential of phages in her lab for years now.



The team has made significant strides, such as prompting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-use-gps-to-move-precisely-within-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a> to interlink, forming a microscopic living fabric, and even developing a gel visible to the naked eye.



In the past, it hasn't been possible to give this material any form of depth or shape. But with the arrival of the sunflower-like structures of viruses with all their wrinkles, peaks, and crevices, it seems that barrier has been broken down. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-s-masterpiece-sunflower-like-viruses">Nature's masterpiece: Sunflower-like viruses</h2>



“This is really about building with nature,” said Hosseinidoust. “This kind of beautiful, wrinkled structure is ubiquitous in nature." 



"The mechanical, optical and biological properties of this kind of structure have inspired engineers over decades to build these kinds of structures artificially, in the hope of getting the same kind of properties out of them.”



The discovery has opened doors to shaping phages in a variety of ways, enhancing their efficiency and creating opportunities for innovative biological applications. 



For instance, the team was able to blend these flower-like structures with DNAzymes, enabling them to detect low concentrations of Legionella bacteria in water from commercial cooling towers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endless-source-of-inspiration">Endless source of inspiration</h2>



As antibiotic resistance continues to be a major concern, a rekindled interest in bacteriophages as a treatment for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/influenza-is-considered-the-biggest-pandemic-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various infections</a> has arisen.



 With their ability to specifically target certain bacteria while leaving others unharmed, the potential for these tiny viruses holds a lot more promise than we might have believed.



“Nature is so powerful and so intelligent. As engineers, it’s our job to learn how it works, so we can harness processes like this and put them to use,” said Hosseinidoust.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adfm.202414375" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Functional Materials</a>.



Image Credit: McMaster University



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Tiny viruses link up and bloom into amazing sunflower structures

In the world of scientific discovery, some of the most...

Air pollution, the invisible enemy, is not just a threat to our lungs but also holds detrimental implications for our brain.



Fine particulate matter or PM2.5, a complex medley of microscopic particles and droplets suspended in the air, has been the culprit behind lung tissue damage and inflammation for years. 



However, recent developments have turned our attention toward another potential victim of this insidious enemy - our cognitive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollutions-impact-on-brain">Air pollutions impact on brain</h2>



In a recent study, researchers from the Universities of <a href="https://www.uni-rostock.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rostock</a>, Bonn, and <a href="https://www.uni.lu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luxembourg</a> have shed light on an alarming correlation.



The experts suggest systemic inflammation, spurred by an upsurge in monocytes (a type of white blood cells), could be a significant conduit for the effects of PM2.5 exposure on cognitive impairment.



This study, published in the journal Alzheimer's &amp; Dementia, could indeed change the way we perceive air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-a-surge-in-hospital-emergency-visits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exposing-the-invisible-health-risks">Exposing the invisible health risks</h2>



PM2.5, impossibly small airborne particles, can effortlessly infiltrate our lungs and potentially our bloodstream, thereby posing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-is-fueling-more-intense-and-dangerous-thunderstorms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">significant health risks</a>. 



Perpetual exposure to poor air quality has been connected to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, prompting air pollution to be recorded as a modifiable risk factor in the Lancet Commission's <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01296-0/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent report</a> on dementia prevention, intervention, and care.



However, the complex mechanisms explaining how PM2.5 affects cognitive function remain elusive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-air-quality-and-cognitive-decline">Poor air quality and cognitive decline</h2>



Contrary to the majority of studies focusing on cognitive decline in older people, emerging evidence indicates that even younger adults could be affected by chronic low-level exposure to PM2.5. 



This broader demographic exploration could potentially unravel how early and mid-life exposure may impact long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive outcomes</a>. Intrigued by this, the researchers examined data from more than 66,000 participants in the Dutch Lifelines cohort.



The experts integrated adult participants' blood profiles and cognitive testing results spanning a decade (2006-2015) with air pollution data at their homes. This analysis led to fresh insights regarding the unexplored mechanisms linking PM2.5 exposure and brain health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-air-pollution-impact-brain">How does air pollution impact brain?</h2>



The researchers discovered that PM2.5 exposure correlates with a decline in cognitive processing time (CPT) - how swiftly our brains can react.



Intriguingly, an upswing in white blood cell counts, especially monocytes - the linchpin in our body’s immunity responses - mediated a significant part of this effect.



“Systemic inflammation may act as a key intermediary, linking PM2.5&nbsp;exposure to impaired cognitive function,” explained Dr. Benjamin Aretz, research scientist at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ukbonn.de/patient_innen/international/english/information-for-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University Hospital Bonn</a>&nbsp;and first author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-missing-link">Unraveling the missing link</h2>



While PM2.5 can directly infiltrate the brain by crossing the blood-brain barrier, sparking local inflammation, this research emphasizes a wider, systemic inflammation occurring from exposure. 



“We hypothesise that the number of white blood cells rise in response to pollutants,” said Professor Gabriele Doblhammer, group leader at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dzne.de/en/research/research-areas/population-health-sciences/forschungsgruppen/doblhammer/research-areasfocus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DZNE in Rostock</a>.



“Inflammation was already shown to play an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, the inflammation we see in response to air polution may disrupt immune functions in the brain, thereby indirectly impairing cognitive health.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-is-the-best-cure">Prevention is the best cure</h2>



As we approach an era marked by aging populations and rapid urbanization, understanding and addressing the role of air pollution in brain diseases is becoming important. 



“Given the strong correlation between air pollution and cognitive deficits, further studies are essential to pinpoint which pollutants and cellular mechanisms mediate this effect,” said&nbsp;Professor Michael Heneka, director of the&nbsp;Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.uni.lu/lcsb-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LCSB</a>) at the University of Luxembourg and senior author of the study.&nbsp;



In the end, the invisible enemy is not invincible. By unveiling the mysteries of PM2.5, we can equip ourselves with the knowledge to combat the ecological threats that loom over our cognitive health.



We find ourselves at the fascinating confluence of science, health, and environment, and it is our collective responsibility to champion the cause of cleaner air for better cognitive futures. 



So, the next time you think about air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-air-quality-trends-revealed-in-new-images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, remember it is not just impacting our lungs, but also our brain.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.14320" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer s &amp; Dementia</a>.



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Air pollution exposure slows down the brain's processing speed

Air pollution, the invisible enemy, is not just a threat...

Scientists have pinpointed the age of the moon's oldest and largest impact basin, the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) basin, to over 4.32 billion years ago.



The research is shedding new light on the early history of asteroid and comet impacts on the moon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basin-on-the-far-side-of-the-moon">Basin on the far side of the moon</h2>



Both the Earth and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-earth-get-its-moon-a-new-theory-has-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a> have been bombarded by space objects since their formation, leaving behind craters and basins. 



However, the exact timing of some of the earliest and largest of these impact events has remained a mystery - until now.&nbsp;



A team of scientists led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> believes they have dated the formation of the massive South Pole-Aitken basin, located on the far side of the moon and stretching over 2,000 kilometers, through analysis of a lunar meteorite.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oldest-impact-basin-on-the-moon">Oldest impact basin on the moon</h2>



The research, published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41550-024-02380-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>, focused on the analysis of a lunar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-meteorites-can-be-traced-to-three-asteroid-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteorite</a> called Northwest Africa 2995, found in Algeria in 2005. 



This meteorite is classified as a regolith breccia, which is a type of rock formed by fragments fused together under heat and pressure. It contains key clues about the age of the South Pole-Aitken basin.



Study co-author Joshua Snape is a research fellow at the University of Manchester.



“Over many years, scientists across the globe have been studying rocks collected during the Apollo, Luna, and Chang'e 5 missions, as well as lunar meteorites, and have built up a picture of when these impact events occurred,” explained Snape.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-bombardment-on-the-moon">Impact bombardment on the moon </h2>



According to Snape, the long-held consensus has been that the moon experienced a period of intense bombardment between 4.2 and 3.8 billion years ago.



However, by analyzing the uranium and lead levels in mineral and rock fragments within the Northwest Africa 2995 meteorite, the team concluded that the SPA basin likely formed 120 million years earlier than previously thought - around 4.32 to 4.33 billion years ago.&nbsp;



This finding weakens the argument that the moon's bombardment was concentrated within a narrow period and instead suggests a more gradual process of impacts over a longer span of time.



“Constraining the age of the South-Pole Aitken basin to 120 million years earlier weakens the argument for this narrow period of impact bombardment on the moon and instead indicates there was a more gradual process of impacts over a longer period,” Snape said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dating-the-moon-s-oldest-impact-basin-nbsp">Dating the moon's oldest impact basin&nbsp;</h2>



To determine the basin's age, the researchers compared the data gathered from the meteorite to findings from NASA's Lunar Prospector mission, which orbited the moon between 1998 and 1999.&nbsp;



The mission studied the moon's surface composition, allowing the team to identify chemical similarities between the meteorite and rocks within the SPA basin. This comparison confirmed their link, supporting the new age estimate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-earth-s-early-history">Understanding Earth’s early history</h2>



Study senior author Romain Tartese, an astrophysicist at the University of Manchester, noted that the implications of this research extend far beyond the moon.&nbsp;



“We know that the Earth and the moon likely experienced similar impacts during their early history, but rock records from the Earth have been lost,” said Tartese.&nbsp;&nbsp;



“We can use what we have learned about the moon to provide us with clues about the conditions on Earth during the same period of time.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-exploration-of-the-moon">Future exploration of the moon</h2>



While this study presents a major breakthrough, there is more work to be done. Lead author Katherine Joy, an astronomer at the University of Manchester highlighted the need for further investigation.&nbsp;



“The proposed ancient 4.32 billion year old age of the South Pole-Aitken basin now needs to be tested by sample return missions collecting rocks from known localities within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/man-in-the-moon-craters-are-200-million-years-older-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crater</a> itself,” she said.



Such future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-new-lunar-fss-mission-will-explore-moon-far-side-moonquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">missions</a> could provide additional data to verify the proposed age of the South Pole-Aitken basin, further advancing our understanding of the early impact history of both the moon and the Earth. 



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Moon’s biggest impact basin is millions of years older than we thought

Scientists have pinpointed the age of the moon's oldest and...

While reading a children's book about insects with his daughter, Matt Shipman came across an interesting fact: bees perceive colors differently than humans do.&nbsp;



His daughter, filled with curiosity, immediately wanted to know more about this fascinating phenomenon.  



Digging deeper into the science of bee vision, Shipman - who is a research communicator at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> - found that bees see flowers in a way that is truly unique - and arguably even more beautiful than how we see them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-color-vision-of-bees">Color vision of bees</h2>



Humans are capable of seeing light in wavelengths ranging from about 390 to 750 nanometers. This range encompasses the spectrum of colors we perceive, from violet through to red.&nbsp;



Bees, like many other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a>, have a visual range of approximately 300 to 650 nm. This difference means that while bees cannot see red, they can see ultraviolet light, a part of the spectrum that is invisible to human eyes.



Bees' ability to distinguish between light and dark allows them to detect edges with ease. This skill helps them recognize different shapes, although they might struggle with shapes that have smooth lines, like circles and ovals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-vision-matters-for-bees">Why vision matters for bees</h2>



For bees, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision</a> plays a crucial role in their daily activities, particularly when it comes to finding nectar and pollen. 



While they can use their sense of smell to locate flowers, this only works when they are already close to their target. Vision is essential for spotting flowers from a distance, guiding them towards potential food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bee-vision-and-ultraviolet-colors">Bee vision and ultraviolet colors</h2>



There is an ongoing debate about whether bees' vision evolved to better detect flowers or if flowers evolved to become more visible to bees.&nbsp;



Most likely, it is the latter: flowers have evolved specifically to attract insect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-an-alarming-decline-in-pollinator-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinators</a>, such as bees, by developing vivid ultraviolet color patterns. These patterns are invisible to humans but serve as bright, enticing signals for bees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultraviolet-patterns-nature-s-guide-for-bees">Ultraviolet patterns: Nature’s guide for bees</h2>



Many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flowers-blooming-92-days-earlier-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowers</a> display intricate ultraviolet patterns that act as beacons for bees. These patterns often highlight “landing zones,” directing bees toward the parts of the flower that contain nectar and pollen. 



For the bees, this guidance means an easier time locating food, while for the flower, it increases the likelihood that pollen will cling to a bee and be carried to another flower, aiding in reproduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-we-know-what-bees-can-see">How do we know what bees can see?</h2>



Understanding what bees see has been a subject of scientific curiosity for years. One of the methods researchers have used involves training bees to respond to specific colors through behavioral experiments.&nbsp;



For example, scientists would set up feeders containing sugar water near colored targets - such as a yellow one.&nbsp;



Over time, the bees learned to associate the yellow target with the food, returning to it even when the sugar water was removed.&nbsp;



The bees would still choose the yellow target over others, even when presented with gray options, indicating that they could distinguish the color.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-photoreceptors-and-the-visual-spectrum-nbsp">Photoreceptors and the visual spectrum&nbsp;</h2>



Another way scientists have uncovered what bees can see is by examining the photoreceptors in their eyes.&nbsp;



By exposing bees to various wavelengths of light, researchers have been able to identify which wavelengths trigger signals in the bees' photoreceptors.&nbsp;



A lack of response to a particular wavelength suggests that the light is outside of the bee’s visual spectrum.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-unique-perspective-on-flowers">A unique perspective on flowers</h2>



Bees, with their ability to perceive ultraviolet light, experience a world that is quite different from ours - especially when it comes to flowers.&nbsp;



The intricate patterns that guide them to nectar and pollen are invisible to us, making their world rich in hidden beauty. And if you are interested in seeing some of this hidden world, you can find impressive collections of ultraviolet flower <a href="http://www.naturfotograf.com/UV_flowers_list.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">images</a> online. 



It’s a reminder that nature holds many surprises, some of which can only be appreciated through a bee’s eye view.



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Bee vision reveals a hidden world that we cannot see

While reading a children's book about insects with his daughter,...

Over a century ago, on a quiet morning in an area of Siberia called Tunguska, the sky erupted with a flash brighter than the sun. An explosion shook the ground, leaving those who witnessed it both awestruck and terrified. They had just seen Earth's most recent major asteroid impact event.



“A collision of a NEO with Earth is the only natural disaster we now know how humanity could completely prevent” said NASA Planetary Defense Officer Lindley Johnson. 



“We must keep searching for what we know is still out there, and we must continue to research and test Planetary Defense technologies and capabilities that could one day protect our planet’s inhabitants from a devastating event.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tunguska-asteroid-impact-event">The Tunguska asteroid impact event</h2>



The morning of June 30, 1908, began like any other day, but was soon abruptly disrupted by a brilliant fireball that streaked across the sky.



A thunderous boom followed, marking the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nuclear-winter-dinosaurs-were-likely-killed-by-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">catastrophic collision</a> of an asteroid with Earth's atmosphere. This event, christened the Tunguska event, left an indelible imprint on human history and underscored the dangers that lurk in our cosmic vicinity.



In 1927, the first scientific expedition to the Tunguska site was led by the well-known geologist Dr. Leonid A. Kulik from the Soviet Academy of Sciences.



His work, albeit 20 years later, documented the massive destruction caused by the asteroid's explosion in the air.



The asteroid impact event at Tunguska wiped out around 80 million trees across a vast area of 830 square miles, hitting the Evenki people hard, as their livelihoods relied on their reindeer herds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-explosion-or-direct-impact">Atmospheric explosion or direct impact?</h2>



Dr. Kulik's analysis showed that the object, a bolide about 130 feet wide, entered Earth's atmosphere at a 30-degree angle.



He thinks the asteroid blew up in mid-air at around six miles high, creating a powerful shock wave and heat blast that could flatten forests and send seismic waves felt hundreds of miles away.



Further investigations found microparticles that suggested the bolide was likely an asteroid from space.



The Tunguska event wasn't just a one-off; archaeologists have discovered signs of other airburst events throughout history.



While smaller asteroids usually break apart harmlessly in the atmosphere, bigger ones like the Tunguska asteroid can pose a real risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-defense-coordination-office-pdco">Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO)</h2>



Fast forward to today, and we definitely haven’t forgotten the lessons from Tunguska. The launch of <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/planetary-science/programs/planetarydefense/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's PDCO</a> in 2016 was a big step forward in protecting Earth from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-equivalent-of-a-blindfolded-full-court-shot-caused-the-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential asteroid hits</a>.



The PDCO focuses on spotting Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), sending out warnings, and coordinating global defense plans.



Now, let’s talk about an impressive achievement: the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/dart/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DART</a>) mission. Launched on November 23, 2021, DART set out to show off a technique called kinetic impact.



DART hit its target -- the binary asteroid system of Didymos and its smaller buddy, Dimorphos -- at a staggering speed of 14,000 miles per hour, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-mission-debris-will-create-a-human-made-meteor-shower/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">successfully changing its path</a>.



On September 26, 2022, DART's impact even slowed Dimorphos' orbit around Didymos by 32 minutes, way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dart-impact-sent-dimorphos-didymos-asteroid-into-chaotic-unpredictable-tumble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than anyone expected</a>!



“A collision of a NEO with Earth is the only natural disaster we now know how humanity could prevent," NASA Planetary Defense Officer Lindley Johnson explained.



"We must keep searching for what we know is still out there, and we must continue to research and test Planetary Defense technologies and capabilities that could one day protect our planet’s inhabitants from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nadir-crater-second-massive-asteroid-impact-discovered-dinosaur-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devastating event</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-tunguska-to-today">From Tunguska to today</h2>



Tunguska is a pretty sobering chapter in Earth's history, but it's just part of a bigger story. Cosmic impacts, like the asteroid strike that created the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-chicxulub-caused-dinosaurs-extinction-event-traced-to-origin-kuiper-belt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chicxulub crater</a> in Mexico 65 million years ago, wiped out the dinosaurs and 75% of Earth's species.



Then there's the Meteor Crater in Arizona, which is about 50,000 years old and shows just how powerful these impacts can be.



Ancient cosmic events have also played a huge role in shaping human civilization. Take the 12,800-year-old comet impact in Syria during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-a-cosmic-airburst-set-the-world-on-fire-12800-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Younger Dryas period</a> or the airburst asteroid that devastated the ancient city of Tall el-Hamman in Jordan. These events show just how deep and lasting their effects can be on societies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-frontier-in-planetary-defense">Next frontier in planetary defense</h2>



While the Tunguska event stands as a stark reminder, our response capabilities have matured dramatically. NASA's PDCO continues to monitor NEOs that come within 30 million miles of our orbit.



The success of the DART mission offers a blueprint for future defense strategies and lays the groundwork for more sophisticated and reliable planetary defense methods.



Public awareness and involvement are crucial to an effective planetary defense strategy. With the United Nations declaring June 30 as <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/asteroid-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Asteroid Day</a>, there is an effort to educate and involve people worldwide in this crucial mission.



Moreover, fostering a sense of shared responsibility, encouraging aspiring scientists and engineers, and enabling international collaboration are all steps in the right direction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-tunguska-into-the-future">From Tunguska into the future</h2>



The courage and determination of scientists like Dr. Leonid A. Kulik, way back in 1927, set the stage for our current vantage point.



Today, researchers and engineers carry forward this legacy, pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve to safeguard our planet. 



The stories of those who lived through the Tunguska event serve as a poignant reminder of why this work is so crucial.



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Earth survived an asteroid impact in 1908 that most people don’t know about

Over a century ago, on a quiet morning in an...

Human,Brain,Neuron,Activity.,Brain,3d,Neural,Network.,Neurological,Functions,

If you've ever groaned at the notion of getting out of bed for an early morning workout, or grumbled at the thought of losing a night's sleep due to a late-night Netflix binge, your brain is echoing your sentiments to the activities.



In a remarkable and lengthy study, scientists embarked on a fascinating journey to understand this relationship. They closely monitored a single person's brain activity, physical activity, mood and lifestyle for a whopping five months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-after-daily-activities">Brain after daily activities</h2>



"We wanted to go beyond isolated events. Our behavior and mental states are constantly shaped by our environment and experiences," says research leader Ana Triana. 



Yet, we know little about the response of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-echoes-todays-activities-change-your-behavior-for-weeks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain functional connectivity</a> to environmental, physiological, and behavioral changes on different timescales, from days to months.



"To truly understand the brain, we need to look at how it responds and evolves over time, influenced by our environment, experiences, and daily habits." 



Triana wasn't just leading the research; she was the subject, lending a unique, deeply personal perspective to the study.



Findings from this investigation unveil that our brains don't just react in knee-jerk, immediate responses to daily events. 



Indeed, the brain seems to have a 'memory' of sorts. It evolves according to sleep patterns, physical activity, mood, and even respiratory rate over several days.



If you thought a restless night or an intense workout only had immediate, short-term effects, think again. These experiences could still be impacting your brain -- and your attention, cognition, and memory -- well into the next week.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-connectivity">Brain's connectivity</h2>



The research didn't stop at understanding the brain's behavioral response. It also shed light on fascinating connections between the heart and brain. 



Heart rate variability, a measure of the heart's adaptability, appears to have a strong link with brain connectivity, particularly during rest. 



So, taking a minute to focus on your breath, engage in mindfulness, or practice any stress management technique could be shaping your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-complete-map-of-every-neuron-in-the-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>'s wiring even when you're not actively focused on a task.



Even physical activity positively influences how different regions of the brain interact, potentially impacting memory and cognitive flexibility -- the ability to switch between thinking about different concepts, or to think about multiple concepts simultaneously.



Intriguingly, even minor shifts in mood, and fluctuations in heart rate could leave lasting imprints for up to fifteen days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-activities-in-brain">Scanning activities in brain</h2>



"At the beginning, it was exciting and a bit stressful. Then, routine settles in and you forget," says Triana. Data from the devices and twice-weekly brain scans were complemented by qualitative data from mood surveys.



The researchers from <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a> and the <a href="https://www.oulu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oulu</a> identified two distinct response patterns in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-divide-the-day-into-different-chapters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>: a short-term wave, lasting under seven days, and a long-term wave up to fifteen days. 



These waves reflected the brain's quick adaptability on one hand and more gradual, lasting effects on the other.



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



This study holds significant implications for our understanding of mental health and well-being. 



By appreciating that the brain's responses are not instantaneous but rather span several days to weeks, mental health professionals might develop more effective therapeutic interventions that align with these temporal patterns. 



It also encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, recognizing that daily decisions have lasting effects on brain function and connectivity. 



Importantly, the research suggests that managing stress and maintaining regular physical activity can enhance cognitive flexibility, potentially improving mental health outcomes and overall quality of life.



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



The pioneering nature of this research offers a framework for personalized neuroscience, where tailored interventions could be designed based on an individual's unique brain response patterns and lifestyle. 



With wearable technology and continuous monitoring becoming more accessible, it is feasible to integrate these insights into everyday life, allowing individuals to track their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-does-creativity-start-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a> in real-time. 



This prospect not only empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their mental and physical health but also opens avenues for further research to explore how external factors, such as nutrition and social interactions, contribute to the brain's long-term evolution. 



As this field progresses, the potential for more personalized, responsive approaches to brain health and well-being will only grow, paving the way for improved quality of life and a deeper understanding of the human brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-care-for-brain-activity">Personalized care for brain activity</h2>



The team hopes these findings will inspire future studies to merge brain data with everyday life considerations, driving personalization in mental health treatment. 



"Data from daily life must come into the lab," insists study co-author, neuroscientist and physician Dr Nick Hayward. "Our approach provides essential context to neuroscience and offers granular understanding of the brain."



Could real-time tracking of brain changes revolutionize healthcare? Triana certainly thinks so, saying, "Linking brain activity with physiological and environmental data can transform personalized healthcare, paving the way for earlier interventions and improved results."



In conclusion, the way you sleep, the level of your physical activity, your mood, and even your heart rate variability could be influencing your brain in ways we are only beginning to understand. 



So next time you're grappling with the choice of an extra hour of sleep or an early morning jog, remember, your brain is keeping score.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002797" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a>.



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Human brains literally "change" and adapt to our sleep patterns, activities, and overall lifestyle

If you've ever groaned at the notion of getting out...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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