Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Bermejo River and the Río Grande de Tarija, which flow through Argentina and Bolivia in South America. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station.



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



“The meandering rivers in this image are sourced in the Andes Mountains and generally flow southeast through valleys in the foothills - the region between the high mountains and plains. The Iruya River deposits particles of silt and clay as it flows into the valley centered in this image,” said NASA.



“Visible indications of the rivers’ shifting channels include river islands, point bars (on the inside curve of streams), and several meander scars. Such scars form when a river gets cut off from the main flow and fills in with sediment, soil, and vegetation.”



“Sediment from the adjacent highlands filled valleys that were formed by tectonic forces driving uplift of the Andes. These deposits are subsequently carried by rivers, such as the Iruya, along with new sediment to form the light-toned braided channels and the adjacent darker-toned floodplains. Nutrient-rich floodplain soils provide fertile ground for agricultural fields.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bermejo-river">Bermejo River</h2>



The Bermejo River originates in the Bolivian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-hotspots-are-shrinking-in-the-andes-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andes</a> and flows into Argentina. It plays a crucial role in the geographical and ecological landscape of the region. The river's course is characterized by its meandering path through the Gran Chaco plain, making it a significant river in the region's hydrological system.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-importance">Economic importance</h3>



The Bermejo River is vital for agriculture, providing essential water resources for irrigation. It also has potential for hydroelectric power generation.



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



The diverse habitats created by the Bermejo River, including its riverbanks, floodplains, and adjacent forests, support rich biodiversity. However, the wildlife in this region faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, making conservation efforts critical for their survival.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jaguars-in-the-amazon-are-threatened-by-climate-extremes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaguars</a> are the apex predators of this region, and are occasionally spotted along the riverbanks, where they hunt. Large, herbivorous mammals called tapirs are found in the forests around the Bermejo River. They often visit the river to drink and cool off.



Capibaras, the world’s largest rodents, are commonly found in the wetlands and along the river edges.



The tallest flying bird found in South and Central America, jabirus can often be seen in wetlands along the Bermejo River. Toco toucans, known for their colorful bills, can be found in the forested areas near the river.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rio-grande-de-tarija">Río Grande de Tarija</h2>



The Río Grande de Tarija, also known in its lower stretches as the Guadalquivir, flows primarily within Bolivia. It is a critical watercourse in the Tarija Department, contributing significantly to the region's agriculture and livelihoods.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-importance-0">Economic importance</h3>



This river is essential for irrigation, supporting a variety of crops and contributing to the local economy. The surrounding lands are fertile and productive, thanks to the river's water.



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



Similar to other rivers, the Río Grande de Tarija faces challenges such as water management issues, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-the-effects-of-pollutants-on-river-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>, and the impacts of climate change on its flow and health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-in-bolivian-rivers">Wildlife in Bolivian rivers</h3>



River basins in Bolivia are home to a wide range of bird species, including various species of herons, egrets, kingfishers, and perhaps even some rarer species like the wattled jacana or the sunbittern. The diverse birdlife is attracted to the abundance of fish and the relatively untouched natural habitats along the river.



The Characidae family includes many fish species that are commonly found in South American rivers, such as tetras. They are known for their diversity and are a key part of the river's ecosystem, serving as both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diving-to-extremes-predatory-fish-frequent-the-oceans-twilight-zone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator</a> and prey.



Cichlids are another diverse group of fish that can be found in South American rivers. They are appreciated by aquarium enthusiasts worldwide and play significant roles in their ecosystems as both predators and herbivores.



The rivers of Bolivia are also home to various catfish species, which are well adapted to life in muddy and turbulent waters. These include the armored catfish, which are often found clinging to rocks and logs.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/ ISS Crew Earth Observations Facility/ Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, Johnson Space Center



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

The Río Grande de Tarija and Bermejo River in South America

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features the Bermejo River and the Río Grande de Tarija, which flow through Argentina and Bolivia in South America. The photograph was captured by an astronaut onboard the International Space Station. Meandering rivers “The meandering rivers in this image are sourced in the Andes Mountains and generally flow southeast through valleys in the foothills - the region between the high mountains and plains. The Iruya River deposits particles of silt and clay as it...

Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the delta of the Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-river">Ebro River</h2>



“Stretching across 910 km of northern Spain, the Ebro River is the second-longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. In the image, it can be seen as a green line winding its way through the peninsula before flowing into the Mediterranean, shaping the Ebro Delta,” noted ESA.



“The Ebro River discharges more water into the sea than any other river in Spain. As suspended sediment flows from the river’s mouth, it tints the coastal waters with a turquoise hue.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-delta">Ebro Delta</h2>



The Ebro Delta is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetland-methane-emissions-have-surged-at-high-latitudes/">wetland areas</a> in the western Mediterranean region. The river's basin is the largest in Spain, covering about 85,000 square kilometers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-significance-nbsp">Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>



Historically, the Ebro River has been significant in numerous battles, including the famous Battle of the Ebro during the Spanish Civil War, which was one of the war's longest and deadliest conflicts.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-significance-nbsp">Economic significance&nbsp;</h2>



Economically, the Ebro plays a crucial role in agriculture, particularly in regions like La Rioja and Navarre, which are known for their vineyards. Additionally, the river supports various industries and hydroelectric power generation.



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



The Ebro Delta is ecologically rich, providing habitat for diverse bird species. It is also a vital area for rice cultivation in Spain.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-reserve">Nature reserve</h3>



“Most of the delta comprises the Ebro Delta Nature Reserve. With its protected wetlands, beaches, marshes, salt pans and estuaries, this reserve provides a natural habitat for numerous migratory birds and waterfowl,” said ESA.



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



The river and its delta face environmental challenges such as pollution, water extraction for irrigation, and the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-have-altered-river-flow-worldwide/">climate change</a>, which threaten its ecosystem and the sustainability of its water resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-northeast-coast-of-spain">The northeast coast of Spain</h2>



The northeast coast of Spain is a vibrant and diverse region, characterized by its rich history, unique culture, and stunning landscapes. 



It includes the autonomous communities of Catalonia, which features the dynamic city of Barcelona, and part of the Valencian Community. This area is also part of what is known as the Costa Brava, which stretches from the town of Blanes up to the French border.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography">Geography</h3>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-impacts-97-percent-of-the-worlds-coastline/">coastline</a> is renowned for its rugged beauty, with rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and small beaches. The interior regions feature mountains such as the Pyrenees, which offer skiing in winter and hiking in the summer.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-heritage">Cultural heritage</h3>



The area has a strong cultural identity, particularly in Catalonia, where there is a significant movement for independence. The Catalan language is widely spoken alongside Spanish. The region is also known for its festivals, architecture (notably the works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona), and traditional dances like the Sardana.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cuisine">Cuisine</h3>



The cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood from the Mediterranean, traditional Catalan dishes like "pa amb tomàquet" (bread with tomato), and rice dishes such as paella in the Valencian region. The area is also famous for its wines, including the sparkling wine Cava.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tourism">Tourism</h3>



The northeast coast attracts millions of tourists each year due to its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities. Barcelona, in particular, is a major tourist destination with attractions like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the bustling La Rambla.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy">Economy</h3>



The economy of the northeast coast is one of the most dynamic in Spain, with Barcelona serving as a major hub for trade, education, entertainment, and technology.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory



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The Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain

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

Tropical Storm Cristobal over the Yucatán Peninsula Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a map of rainfall accumulation in Central America from May 27 to June 5, 2020.  

Tropical Storm Cristobal lingered over the Yucatán Peninsula for several days, dumping enormous amounts of rainfall. 

The storm first developed in the Pacific as Tropical Storm Amanda, which made landfall in Guatemala and caused devastation in El Salvador. 

The storm weakened as it crossed Central America, and then began to strengthen as it reached the Atlantic Ocean where it was named Cristobal.

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, the storm dumped up to 25 inches of rain in parts of Mexico, and as much as 35 inches of rain in parts of Guatemala and El Salvador.

Flash flooding and landslides killed 17 people and swamped hundreds of homes in El Salvador.

Tropical Storm Cristobal is now headed toward the U.S. Gulf Coast, where coastal states from Louisiana to Florida are preparing for dangerous storm surges, heavy rainfall, and flooding.

&nbsp;

---The proper derivation of the word Yucatán is widely debated. 17th century Franciscan historian <a title="" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diego_L%C3%B3pez_de_Cogolludo">Diego López de Cogolludo</a> offers two theories in particular. In the first one, <a title="Francisco Hernández de Córdoba (Yucatán conquistador)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Hern%C3%A1ndez_de_C%C3%B3rdoba_(Yucat%C3%A1n_conquistador)">Francisco Hernández de Córdoba</a>, having first arrived to the peninsula in 1517, inquired the name of a certain settlement and the response in <a class="mw-redirect" title="Yucatec Mayan" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yucatec_Mayan">Yucatec Mayan</a> was "I don't understand", which sounded like yucatán to the Spaniards. There are many possibilities of what the natives could have actually said, among which "mathan cauyi athán", "tectecán", "ma'anaatik ka t'ann" and "ci u t'ann". This origin story was first told by <a title="Hernán Cortés" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hern%C3%A1n_Cort%C3%A9s">Hernán Cortés</a> in <a title="Hernán Cortés" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hern%C3%A1n_Cort%C3%A9s#Writings:_the_Cartas_de_Relaci%C3%B3n">his letters to Charles V</a>. Later 16th century historians <a class="mw-redirect" title="Motolinia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motolinia">Motolinia</a> and <a title="Francisco López de Gómara" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_L%C3%B3pez_de_G%C3%B3mara">Francisco López de Gómara</a> also repeat this version. In some versions the expedition isn't the one captained by Córdoba but instead the one a year later captained by <a title="Juan de Grijalva" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_de_Grijalva">Juan de Grijalva</a>. The second major theory is that the name is in some way related to the <a class="mw-redirect" title="Yuca" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuca">yuca</a> crop, as written by <a title="Bernal Díaz del Castillo" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernal_D%C3%ADaz_del_Castillo">Bernal Díaz del Castillo</a>. Others theories claim that it is a derivative of <a title="Chontal Maya" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chontal_Maya">Chontal Tabascan</a> word yokat'an meaning speaker of the <a title="Chontal Maya language" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chontal_Maya_language">Yoko ochoco</a> language, or an incorrect <a title="Nahuatl" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nahuatl">Nahuatl</a> term yokatlan as supposedly "place of richness"

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

Tropical Storm Cristobal over the Yucatán Peninsula

Tropical Storm Cristobal over the Yucatán Peninsula Today's Image of the...

An otherworldly landscape in Tunisia Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the desert landscape of southwestern Tunisia.

The sandy terrain contrasts with the darker features of the large endorheic salt lake Chott el Djerid.

According to NASA, the crust of dried sediment, salt, and other evaporite minerals that make up the lakebed are part of what gives the opening desert scenes of the 1977 Star Wars movie, Episode IV: A New Hope, such an otherworldly feeling.

Tunisia, officially the Republic of Tunisia,is a country in the <a title="Maghreb" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maghreb">Maghreb</a> region of <a title="North Africa" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Africa">North Africa</a>, covering 163,610 square kilometres (63,170 square miles). Its northernmost point, <a title="Cape Angela" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Angela">Cape Angela</a>, is also the northernmost point on the African continent. Tunisia is bordered by <a title="Algeria" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algeria">Algeria</a> to the west and southwest, <a title="Libya" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libya">Libya</a> to the southeast, and the <a title="Mediterranean Sea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediterranean_Sea">Mediterranean Sea</a> to the north and east. Tunisia's population was 11.7 million in 2019. Tunisia's name is derived from its capital city, <a title="Tunis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tunis">Tunis</a> (Berber native name: Tunest), which is located on its northeast coast.

Geographically, Tunisia contains the eastern end of the <a title="Atlas Mountains" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlas_Mountains">Atlas Mountains</a>, and the northern reaches of the <a title="Sahara" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sahara">Sahara</a> desert. Much of the rest of the country's land is fertile soil. Its 1,300 kilometres (810 miles) of coastline include the African conjunction of the western and eastern parts of the <a title="Mediterranean Basin" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediterranean_Basin">Mediterranean Basin</a>.

Tunisia is a unitary semi-presidential representative democratic republic. It has an <a title="European Union Association Agreement" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union_Association_Agreement">association agreement</a> with the <a title="European Union" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union">European Union</a>; is a member of La Francophonie, the Union for the Mediterranean, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, the Arab Maghreb Union, the Arab League, the OIC, the Greater Arab Free Trade Area, the Community of Sahel–Saharan States, the African Union, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77; and has obtained the status of major non-NATO ally of the United States. In addition, Tunisia is also a <a title="Member states of the United Nations" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Member_states_of_the_United_Nations">member state</a> of the United Nations and a state party to the <a title="Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rome_Statute_of_the_International_Criminal_Court">Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court</a>. Close relations with Europe, in particular <a title="France–Tunisia relations" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/France%E2%80%93Tunisia_relations">with France </a>and <a title="Italy–Tunisia relations" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Italy%E2%80%93Tunisia_relations">with Italy</a>, have been forged through economic cooperation, privatisation and industrial modernization.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

An otherworldly landscape in Tunisia

An otherworldly landscape in Tunisia Today's Image of the Day...

Colorful display in the Mediterranean Sea. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features a colorful display in the Mediterranean Sea between the island of Elba and the mainland of western Italy. 

Sediment deposits outline the water currents and whirlpools near the coast, while phytoplankton are likely present as well.

According to Aida Alvera-Azcárate, an ocean scientist at the University of Liège, sediment is primarily transported to the Mediterranean Sea by large rivers along the north Italian coast.

The image was captured by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8 on December 26, 2019.

---

The Mediterranean Sea is a <a title="Sea" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea">sea</a> connected to the <a title="Atlantic Ocean" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_Ocean">Atlantic Ocean</a>, surrounded by the <a title="Mediterranean Basin" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediterranean_Basin">Mediterranean Basin</a> and almost completely enclosed by land: on the north by <a title="Western Europe" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_Europe">Western</a> and <a title="Southern Europe" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Europe">Southern Europe</a> and <a title="Anatolia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anatolia">Anatolia</a>, on the south by <a title="North Africa" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Africa">North Africa</a>, and on the east by the <a title="Levant" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levant">Levant</a>. Although the sea is sometimes considered a part of the Atlantic Ocean, it is usually referred to as a separate body of water. Geological evidence indicates that around 5.9 million years ago, the Mediterranean was cut off from the Atlantic and was partly or completely <a class="mw-redirect" title="Desiccated" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desiccated">desiccated</a> over a period of some 600,000 years during the <a title="Messinian salinity crisis" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messinian_salinity_crisis">Messinian salinity crisis</a> before being refilled by the <a title="Zanclean flood" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zanclean_flood">Zanclean flood</a> about 5.3 million years ago.

It covers an area of about 2,500,000 km2 (970,000 sq mi), representing 0.7% of the global <a title="Ocean" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ocean">ocean</a> surface, but its connection to the Atlantic via the <a title="Strait of Gibraltar" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strait_of_Gibraltar">Strait of Gibraltar</a>—the narrow strait that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates <a title="Spain" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain">Spain</a> in <a title="Europe" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe">Europe</a> from <a title="Morocco" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morocco">Morocco</a> in <a title="Africa" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa">Africa</a>—is only 14 km (9 mi) wide. In <a title="Oceanography" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oceanography">oceanography</a>, it is sometimes called the Eurafrican Mediterranean Sea, the European Mediterranean Sea or the African Mediterranean Sea to distinguish it from <a title="Mediterranean sea (oceanography)" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediterranean_sea_(oceanography)">mediterranean seas</a> elsewhere

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

Colorful display in the Mediterranean Sea

Colorful display in the Mediterranean Sea. Today's Image of the...

Arctic ice arch remains intact Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features an "ice arch" in the Nares Strait that prevents sea ice from escaping the Arctic Ocean and drifting south. 

The structure usually breaks up by June or July, and the timing of its collapse has an influence on how much ice will be lost from the Nares Strait in any given year.

In 2019, the ice arch crumbled in mid-April and allowed sea ice to flow freely by May. 

The ice arch is more stable this year, and remained intact on May 22 when this image was captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Terra satellite. Arctic sea ice extent continued the slow pace of seasonal decline observed in April, leading to an average extent for May 2021 of 12.66 million square kilometers (4.89 million square miles). This was 740,000 square kilometers (286,000 square miles) above the record low for the month set in 2016 and 630,000 square kilometers (243,000 square miles) below the 1981 to 2010 average. The average extent for the month ranks ninth lowest in the passive microwave satellite record. The ice edge is near its average location most everywhere in the Arctic Ocean except in the Labrador Sea and east of Novaya Zemlya. Nevertheless, large polynyas have formed, notably north of the New Siberian Islands and east of Severnaya Zemlya. Open water areas have also developed near the coast in the southern Beaufort Sea and west of Utqiaġvik, Alaska (formerly Barrow). Overall, ice retreat during May occurred primarily in the Bering and Barents Seas, the Sea of Okhotsk and within the Laptev Sea.

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

Arctic ice arch remains intact

Arctic ice arch remains intact Today's Image of the Day...

SpaceX arrives at International Space Station. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the SpaceX Crew Dragon as it approaches the International Space Station.

NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley lifted off on May 30, 2020 from NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

Behnken and Hurley named their spacecraft Endeavour as a tribute to the first space shuttle that both astronauts had flown on.

When Endeavour reached the ISS, both were about 262 miles above the northern border of China and Mongolia. 

SpaceX's achievements include the first privately funded <a title="Liquid-propellant rocket" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquid-propellant_rocket">liquid-propellant rocket</a> to reach orbit (<a title="Falcon 1" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falcon_1">Falcon 1</a> in 2008), the first private company to successfully launch, orbit, and recover a spacecraft (<a title="SpaceX Dragon" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SpaceX_Dragon">Dragon</a> in 2010), the first private company to send a spacecraft to the <a title="International Space Station" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Space_Station">International Space Station</a> (Dragon in 2012), the first <a title="VTVL" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VTVL">Vertical take-off and vertical propulsive landing</a> for an orbital rocket (<a title="Falcon 9" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falcon_9">Falcon 9</a> in 2015), the first reuse of an orbital rocket (Falcon 9 in 2017), the first private company to launch an object into <a title="Heliocentric orbit" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heliocentric_orbit">orbit around the Sun</a> (<a title="Falcon Heavy" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falcon_Heavy">Falcon Heavy</a>'s payload of <a title="Elon Musk's Tesla Roadster" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elon_Musk%27s_Tesla_Roadster">a Tesla Roadster</a> in 2018), and the first private company to send astronauts to orbit and to the <a title="International Space Station" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Space_Station">International Space Station</a> (<a title="Crew Dragon Demo-2" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crew_Dragon_Demo-2">SpaceX Crew Dragon Demo-2</a> mission in 2020). SpaceX has flown 20  cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS) under a partnership with <a title="NASA" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NASA">NASA</a>,  as well as an uncrewed demonstration flight of the <a title="Human-rating certification" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human-rating_certification">human-rated</a> Dragon 2 spacecraft (<a title="Crew Dragon Demo-1" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crew_Dragon_Demo-1">Crew Demo-1</a>) on 2 March 2019, and the first crewed Dragon 2 flight on 30 May 2020

---

By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

SpaceX arrives at International Space Station

SpaceX arrives at International Space Station. Today's Image of the...

Earthquake survivors built a new city in Haiti. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Haiti, where displaced survivors of a 2010 earthquake built a new city called Canaan.

In the year after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake destroyed parts of Port-au-Prince, the capital city's population dropped by about half a million people.

Around 200,000 earthquake victims moved a few miles to the northeast and developed what is now Haiti’s third largest city, Canaan. Earthquake survivors built a new city in Haiti

The island was originally inhabited by the indigenous <a title="Taíno" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ta%C3%ADno">Taíno</a> people, who migrated from South America. The first Europeans arrived on 5 December 1492 during the <a title="Christopher Columbus" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Columbus#First_voyage">first voyage</a> of <a title="Christopher Columbus" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Columbus">Christopher Columbus</a>, who initially believed he had found <a title="India" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India">India</a> or <a title="China" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China">China</a>. Columbus subsequently founded the first European settlement in the Americas, <a title="La Navidad" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Navidad">La Navidad</a>, on what is now the northeastern coast of Haiti. The island was claimed by <a title="Spanish Empire" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Empire">Spain</a> and named La Española, forming part of the <a title="Spanish Empire" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Empire">Spanish Empire</a> until the early 17th century. However, competing claims and settlements by the French led to the western portion of the island being <a title="Peace of Ryswick" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_of_Ryswick">ceded to France</a> in 1697, which was subsequently named Saint-Domingue. French colonists established lucrative <a title="Sugarcane" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugarcane">sugarcane</a> <a title="Sugar plantations in the Caribbean" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar_plantations_in_the_Caribbean">plantations</a>, worked by vast numbers of slaves brought from Africa, which made the colony one of the richest in the world.

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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

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

Earthquake survivors built a new city in Haiti

Earthquake survivors built a new city in Haiti. Today's Image...

Lake Skadar on the Balkan Peninsula. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features Lake Skadar, the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula.

Located on the border of Montenegro and Albania, Lake Skadar is a karst lake that receives most of its water from the Morača river. 

The surrounding Dinaric Alps are made up of erodible rocks such as limestone.

The swirling dark and light sediments visible in the lake have been transported in from higher elevations through snow melt and mountain runoff.

The concept of the Balkan Peninsula was created by the German geographer <a title="August Zeune" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/August_Zeune">August Zeune</a> in 1808,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balkans#cite_note-Tomic2006-6">[6]</a> who mistakenly considered the Balkan Mountains the dominant mountain system of Southeast Europe spanning from the Adriatic Sea to the Black Sea. The term Balkan Peninsula was a synonym for <a title="Rumelia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rumelia">Rumelia</a> in the 19th century, the provinces of the <a title="Ottoman Empire" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottoman_Empire">Ottoman Empire</a> in <a title="Southeast Europe" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Europe">Southeast Europe</a>. It had a geopolitical rather than a geographical definition, which was further promoted during the creation of the <a title="Kingdom of Yugoslavia" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_of_Yugoslavia">Kingdom of Yugoslavia</a> in the early 20th century. The definition of the Balkan Peninsula's natural borders do not coincide with the technical definition of a peninsula; hence modern geographers reject the idea of a Balkan peninsula, while scholars[<a class="mw-redirect" title="Wikipedia:Clarity" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Clarity">of what?</a>] usually discuss the Balkans as a region. The term has acquired a stigmatized and pejorative meaning related

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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

Image Credit: NASA

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Lake Skadar on the Balkan Peninsula

Lake Skadar on the Balkan Peninsula. Today's Image of the...

Warm weather triggers a landslide in Alaska. Today's Image of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> shows the aftermath of a landslide on Yudi Peak, a mountain near Anchorage, Alaska.
The month of May brought a blast of early summer temperatures to the region.

According to University of Sheffield landslide watcher Dave Petley, a type of landslide that occurs along multiple planes, known as a "wedge failure," sent rocky debris sliding down the mountain at some point in early May. 

Warm weather triggers a landslide in Alaska. The image was captured on May 13, 2020 by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8. Alaska is by far the <a title="List of U.S. states and territories by area" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._states_and_territories_by_area">largest U.S. state</a> by area, comprising more total area than the next three largest states <a title="Texas" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas">Texas</a>, California, and <a title="Montana" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montana">Montana</a> combined, and the seventh-largest subnational division in the world. It is the third-least populous and the most sparsely populated state, but by far the continent's most populous territory located mostly north of the <a title="60th parallel north" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/60th_parallel_north">60th parallel</a>, with an estimated population of 738,432 as of 2015—more than quadruple the combined populations of Northern Canada and <a title="Greenland" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenland">Greenland</a>.Approximately half of Alaska's residents live within the Anchorage metropolitan area. The state capital of <a title="Juneau, Alaska" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juneau,_Alaska">Juneau</a> is the second-largest city in the United States by area, comprising more territory than the states of <a title="Rhode Island" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhode_Island">Rhode Island</a> and <a title="Delaware" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delaware">Delaware</a>.

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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

Image Credit: NASA

&nbsp;

Warm weather triggers a landslide in Alaska

Warm weather triggers a landslide in Alaska. Today's Image of...

For centuries, desert travelers have relied on oases as life-giving sanctuaries. These pockets of green have sustained communities, fueled trade, and sparked imaginations. Yet, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thriving-reefs-oases-corals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oases</a> are under pressure. New research exposes the delicate balance between human intervention and natural forces such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pastoralists-desertification-sahara/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a> shaping the fate of these vital ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-an-oasis">What is an oasis?</h2>



An oasis isn't simply a desert mirage. It's a distinct, well-defined area where vegetation thrives, contrasting sharply with the surrounding arid landscapes. This extraordinary phenomenon is made possible by a dependable water source, which could be:



<ul>
<li>Groundwater:&nbsp;Underground water that reaches the surface, creating a natural spring or well.</li>



<li>Mountain runoff:&nbsp;Water from rain or melting snow that flows down from higher elevations, gathering in low-lying desert areas.</li>
</ul>



Despite covering only a tiny fraction (around 1.5%) of our planet's land area, oases play a disproportionately important role. They provide essential resources and support around 10% of the world's population, offering a lifeline in otherwise harsh, dry environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-efforts-to-expand-oasis">Human efforts to expand oasis</h2>



Recent research offers a surprising insight into the changing nature of oases. Counterintuitively, between 1995 and 2020, the total area of oases worldwide increased by a staggering 85,000 square miles. While this might seem like a positive development, there's a crucial caveat. 



The majority of this expansion is not a natural phenomenon but the result of deliberate human intervention. Here's how it happens:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-scale-irrigation-projects">Large-scale irrigation projects</h3>



Governments and private entities embark on ambitious projects to divert water from rivers, lakes, or drill deep wells to tap into underground aquifers. This water is then channeled into desert regions, transforming them into artificially-created oases.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-intensive-agriculture">Water-intensive agriculture</h3>



The primary objective of many artificial <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/heart-shaped-oasis-on-the-nile-river/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oases</a> is to support agriculture in otherwise barren areas. This involves growing crops that may not be naturally suited to arid environments, leading to high water demands.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urbanization-and-development">Urbanization and development</h3>



In some cases, artificial oases are created to support urban growth or industrial development in desert regions. These projects often require substantial and ongoing water resources.



However, the crucial issue with artificial oasis expansion lies in its potential unsustainability. These projects often rely on water sources that are either finite or overexploited. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desertification-and-oases">Desertification and oases</h2>



On the flip side, a relentless process called <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/desertification/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a> poses a severe threat to oases. Desertification is the gradual transformation of fertile land into barren desert, often caused by factors such as climate change, overgrazing, and unsustainable water use. Desertification has led to the loss of approximately 52,000 square miles of oases during the same 25-year period.



“Although the scientific community has always emphasized the importance of oases, there has not been a clear map of the global distribution of oases,” said Dongwei Gui, a geoscientist at the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Science</a> who led the study.



“Oasis research has both theoretical and practical significance for achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and promoting sustainable development in arid regions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-net-result-of-desertification-precarious-oases-growth">Net result of desertification: Precarious oases growth</h2>



At first glance, the expansion of oases might seem like a promising development – a victory against harsh desert conditions. However, a closer examination paints a far more complex and worrying picture. While the total area of oases has increased by approximately 33,400 square miles, this net growth masks a deeper problem. 



Much of the recent growth in oasis areas is a direct result of artificial expansion projects. These human-made oases mask simultaneous losses of natural oases due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-and-dust-storms-have-become-unpredictable-and-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">desertification</a>.



Many artificial oases depend on unsustainable water practices. This includes tapping into rapidly depleting groundwater sources or diverting water from ecosystems that rely on those rivers or lakes for their own survival. It's a trade-off, sacrificing one area for the short-term growth of another.



This reliance on unsustainable water use casts a long shadow on the future of these oases. As water resources dwindle and ecosystems are disrupted, the artificial expansion will become increasingly difficult to maintain. The very existence of these oases becomes precarious.



The net growth figure, while seemingly positive, hides a troubling reality. It underscores the delicate and vulnerable nature of these ecosystems and raises serious questions about whether this artificial expansion is simply a short-term solution with potentially devastating long-term consequences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-we-save-oases-from-desertification">Why do we save oases from desertification?</h2>



Oases serve as irreplaceable havens in the world's drylands. They:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-provide-essential-water">Provide essential water</h3>



<ul>
<li>Drinking and domestic needs:&nbsp;Oases serve as primary water sources for communities living within them, fulfilling basic human needs.</li>



<li>Farming:&nbsp;Irrigation from oases enables agriculture even in arid regions, providing food and supporting local economies.</li>



<li>Livestock:&nbsp;Oases provide water to animals raised for sustenance or livelihood, crucial for pastoral and nomadic populations.</li>



<li>Industry and development:&nbsp;Some oases support small-scale industries or other development projects that depend on access to water.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-biodiversity">Support biodiversity</h3>



<ul>
<li>Unique habitats:&nbsp;Oases create distinct micro-ecosystems within harsh desert environments, allowing specialized plants and animals to flourish.</li>



<li>Endemic species:&nbsp;Some oases harbor plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth, contributing to global biodiversity.</li>



<li>Migratory stopovers:&nbsp;Oases act as vital resting and refueling points for migratory birds and other wildlife traveling through arid regions.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offer-resilience-against-climate-change">Offer resilience against climate change</h3>



<ul>
<li>Buffers against drought:&nbsp;Oases can provide water and sustenance during extended periods of drought, offering respite to both people and wildlife.</li>



<li>Microclimates:&nbsp;The vegetation and water presence in oases can create slightly cooler and more humid conditions locally, mitigating the harshness of the desert climate.</li>



<li>Adaptation strategies:&nbsp;Traditional oasis management practices may offer valuable lessons for adapting to water scarcity and climate change in wider regions.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oases-are-under-attack-on-multiple-fronts">Oases are under attack on multiple fronts </h2>



<ul>
<li>Overexploitation of groundwater:&nbsp;As discussed, excessive pumping of groundwater for irrigation or other needs can deplete aquifers faster than they naturally recharge, endangering the long-term survival of the oasis.</li>



<li>Climate change:&nbsp;Rising temperatures increase evaporation rates, making water scarcity even more severe. Changing rainfall patterns can disrupt the delicate water balance that sustains oases.</li>



<li>Loss of glaciers:&nbsp;Glacier meltwater is a lifeline for many oases. As glaciers retreat due to climate change, this essential water source diminishes, threatening the oasis's future.</li>
</ul>



“While higher temperatures increase glacier melt, temporarily boosting oases’ water supplies, as glaciers gradually disappear, the yield of meltwater will eventually decrease, leading to the shrinkage of oases once again,” Gui said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oases-and-desertification">Oases and desertification</h2>



The delicate state of our oases demands a transformative approach. Here's what we can do:



<ul>
<li>Sustainable water management:&nbsp;Promote water conservation, efficient irrigation techniques, and find ways to replenish groundwater sources.</li>



<li>Ecological land use:&nbsp;Halt destructive practices like overgrazing and support traditional land management that works in harmony with nature.</li>



<li>International cooperation:&nbsp;Many rivers cross borders, and oases depend on them. Countries must work together to protect vital water resources.</li>
</ul>



“Due to the unique mechanism of oasis formation, a river basin often nurtures multiple oases across several countries, making transboundary cooperation key to addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable development,” Gui said.



Oases represent extraordinary resilience. In the face of harsh conditions, they offer life and beauty. Yet, their future hangs in the balance. By understanding the intricate dynamics shaping them and embracing sustainable practices, we have the power to safeguard these fragile wonders for generations to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF004086" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Oases face severe threats from desertification

For centuries, desert travelers have relied on oases as life-giving...

Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt lead, volcanoes that spew lava, and thick clouds of sulfuric acid, Venus provides <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-secret-past-may-have-implications-for-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invaluable insights</a> into the search for life on other planets, according to a new study from <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a>.



“We often assume that Earth is the model of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-habitability-of-a-planet-is-affected-by-the-location-of-its-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a>, but if you consider this planet in isolation, we don’t know where the boundaries and limitations are,” said lead author Stephen Kane, a professor of planetary astrophysics at UCR. “Venus gives us that.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-venus-as-a-reference-point-for-life">Venus as a reference point for life</h2>



The experts gathered extensive data on both Earth and Venus, and positioned Venus as a crucial reference point for better understanding the conditions that might preclude life on other planets.



Despite having an atmosphere that would crush a human instantly, Venus shares many similarities with Earth, such as comparable mass and radius. Given their closeness, it raises the question of why Earth's fate was so different.



Many scientists believe the significant amount of solar energy Venus receives caused its atmosphere to become a runaway greenhouse - a hypothesis that Kane challenges. 



“If you consider the solar energy received by Earth as 100%, Venus collects 191%. A lot of people think that’s why Venus turned out differently,” he said. “But hold on a second. Venus doesn’t have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-now-leads-the-solar-system-moon-race-with-145/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, which is what gives Earth things like ocean tides and influenced the amount of water here.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-missions-to-venus-are-needed">More missions to Venus are needed</h2>



The paper also emphasizes the need for more missions to Venus to answer unresolved questions about its core size, rotation rate, magnetic field changes, and atmospheric chemistry.



“Venus doesn’t have a detectable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-shifts-ten-times-faster-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. That could be related to the size of its core,” Kane explained. “Core size also gives us information about how a planet cools itself. Earth has a mantle circulating heat from its core. We don’t know what’s happening inside Venus.”



Understanding the inner workings of Venus is vital because a planet’s interior dynamics greatly affect its atmosphere. This is evident on Earth, where the atmosphere is largely influenced by volcanic activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-nasa-missions">Upcoming NASA missions</h2>



NASA's upcoming missions, <a href="https://ssed.gsfc.nasa.gov/davinci/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DAVINCI</a> and <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/veritas/">VERITAS</a>, will further explore these aspects. The DAVINCI mission will analyze the planet's thick atmosphere, and VERITAS will focus on the planet's surface without landing.



“DAVINCI will measure the atmosphere all the way from the top to the bottom. That will really help us build new climate models and predict these kinds of atmospheres elsewhere, including on Earth, as we keep increasing the amount of CO2,” Kane said.



According to the scientists, these missions will not only improve our understanding of Venus but also refine our assessments of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-are-helping-astronomers-in-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a> possibilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-venus-to-preserve-life">Studying Venus to preserve life</h2>



“The sobering part of the search for life elsewhere in the universe is that we’re never going to have in situ data for an exoplanet. We aren’t going there, landing, or taking direct measurements of them,” Kane said. “If we think another planet has life on the surface, we might not ever know we’re wrong, and we’d be dreaming about a planet with life that doesn’t have it. We are only going to get that right by properly understanding the Earth-size planets we can visit, and Venus gives us that chance.”



“One of the main reasons to study Venus is because of our sacred duties as caretakers of this planet, to preserve its future. My hope is that through studying the processes that produced present-day Venus, especially if Venus had a more temperate past that’s now devastated, there are lessons there for us. It can happen to us. It’s a question of how and when,” Kane concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intriguing-facts-about-venus">Intriguing facts about Venus</h2>



Venus, often dubbed Earth's "sister planet" due to its similar size and proximity, holds a variety of intriguing characteristics that set it apart in our solar system:



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



Venus has an incredibly thick atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid, making it inhospitable. This atmosphere creates a runaway greenhouse effect, leading to surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead - about 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius).



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crushing-pressure">Crushing pressure</h3>



The surface pressure on Venus is about 92 times that of Earth, equivalent to the pressure found at about 3,000 feet (900 meters) underwater on Earth. This extreme pressure would crush most human-made objects.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retrograde-rotation">Retrograde rotation</h3>



Venus rotates on its axis in the opposite direction to most planets in the solar system, including Earth. This means the Sun rises in the west and sets in the east on Venus. Additionally, a day on Venus (one complete rotation on its axis) is longer than its year (one complete orbit around the Sun). It takes about 243 Earth days to rotate once, but only about 225 Earth days to complete an orbit.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-landscape">Volcanic landscape</h3>



Venus is covered with numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanoes-cover-nearly-the-entire-surface-of-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> and has a surface dominated by volcanic plains. It has more volcanoes than any other planet in the solar system, with over 1,600 major volcanoes, many of which are believed to still be active.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-water-vapor">Lack of water vapor</h3>



Despite being similar to Earth in size and composition, Venus has almost no water vapor in its atmosphere, and its surface is a dry, desert-like landscape. Any water that might have been present in the past likely evaporated due to the intense heat.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brightest-planet">Brightest planet</h3>



Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system and is often visible from Earth with the naked eye. It can appear as a bright star-like object in the morning or evening sky, which is why it's sometimes called the Morning Star or Evening Star.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-wind-patterns">Mysterious wind patterns</h3>



Despite the slow rotation on its axis, the atmosphere of Venus rotates much faster than the planet itself, a phenomenon known as super-rotation. Winds in the upper atmosphere can reach speeds up to 220 miles per hour (360 kilometers per hour).



These unique and extreme conditions make Venus an interesting subject of study to understand planetary processes and atmospheric dynamics in our solar system.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/link_gateway/2024arXiv240308830K/doi:10.48550/arXiv.2403.08830" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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How the ‘hellish’ planet Venus can help us find alien life

Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt...

Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-traveling-pathogens-from-melting-permafrost-pose-great-risk-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogen</a> with the highest pandemic potential, according to findings unveiled at a major global congress in Barcelona.



A survey conducted by the VACCELERATE Consortium revealed that 57% of the experts ranked influenza at the top of the list of pandemic threats. This highlights the persistent threat of influenza to global health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-top-pandemic-threats">Exploring the top pandemic threats</h2>



The survey reached out to a broad spectrum of experts from 57 countries, garnering 187 responses that provide a snapshot of the global perspective on infectious threats. 



Influenza emerged as the primary pandemic concern due to its ability to mutate and spread widely each season. 



Disease X - an undefined pathogen representing emerging diseases - and SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the recent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-iron-may-be-a-key-driver-of-long-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a> pandemic, followed closely.



In their study, the experts evaluated a variety of pathogens, including those listed in the World Health Organization’s R&amp;D Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics. 



The blueprint serves as a proactive measure to identify and prioritize research on diseases that pose significant public health risks due to their infectivity, transmissibility, and potential for severe impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritizing-pathogens-with-pandemic-potential">Prioritizing pathogens with pandemic potential</h2>



Besides influenza, the survey highlighted other critical threats. Disease X, a placeholder for potential future pathogens, was ranked highest by 21% of respondents, underscoring the constant vigilance needed against unknown viruses.



Respondents also noted the significant impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-cats-play-a-role-in-spreading-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> and its predecessor, SARS-CoV, which caused the 2002-03 outbreak.



A smaller fraction of experts recognized lesser-known but equally concerning pathogens like the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus and the Ebola virus, noting their deadly outbreaks.



Conversely, experts ranked viruses such as Hantavirus, Lassa virus, Nipah virus, henipavirus, and Rift Valley fever virus lower in terms of immediate pandemic potential, suggesting they pose a lesser immediate threat, yet emphasizing the ongoing need for monitoring and research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influenza-s-pandemic-threat">Influenza’s pandemic threat</h2>



Dr. Jon Salmanton-García commented on the findings: “Each winter we have an influenza season. One could say that this means that every winter there are little pandemics. They are more or less controlled because the different strains are not virulent enough.” 



“Yet, every season the strains involved change, that is the reason why we can get influenza several times in life and vaccines change year to year. In case a new strain becomes more virulent, this control could be lost.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-covid-19-pandemic">Insights from the COVID-19 pandemic</h2>



The recent experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly shifted the landscape of pandemic preparedness.



Dr. Salmanton-García explained that the global response to COVID-19 has enhanced our approach to managing respiratory viruses, improving practices in social distancing, hand hygiene, mask usage, and vaccination strategies.



“In the COVID-19 pandemic, we have learned many things on how to approach a respiratory virus pandemic. This includes social distancing, hand cleaning, face masks, a renewed focus on vaccination, and trust in healthcare institutions. In parallel, institutions have also learned a lot. Preparedness and surveillance are now, vitally, better-funded,” said Dr. Salmanton-García.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pandemic-threats">Understanding pandemic threats</h2>



The study paints a clear picture of the infectious disease landscape, identifying influenza, Disease X, and coronaviruses among the top concerns for global health security. 



The findings emphasize the need for continued vigilance, research, and preparation to mitigate the impact of potential future pandemics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about pandemic threats</h2>



Pandemic threats are often caused by novel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-have-eyes-and-ears-on-their-hosts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a> or bacteria to which the general population has little to no immunity. The severity and spread of these diseases can be influenced by various factors, including the pathogen's transmissibility, virulence, and the availability of effective treatments or vaccines.



Modern global connectivity through travel and trade, along with urbanization and environmental changes, can exacerbate the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-infectious-disease-landscape-is-changing-and-we-must-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infectious diseases</a>, making pandemics more likely.&nbsp;



The impact of a pandemic can be profound, not only causing widespread health crises but also affecting economies, social structures, and daily life. Governments and international organizations work to monitor and manage these risks through surveillance, preparedness plans, and public health interventions aimed at controlling the spread of diseases and minimizing their impact on society.&nbsp;



Effective response strategies often include measures such as vaccination campaigns, travel restrictions, quarantine, and public education about hygiene practices.



The research will be presented at the <a href="https://www.escmid.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases</a>' (ESCMID) Global Congress in Barcelona later this month.



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Influenza is considered the biggest pandemic threat

Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the pathogen...

Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school attendance decreases and the need for additional student support grows amidst a slew of examinations. 



In today's challenging educational environment, the process of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-learn-better-when-their-brain-waves-are-in-sync/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> has become increasingly complex. 



Education expert Alex Quigley emphasizes the critical need to shift our focus from merely what students are learning to how they are learning, to effectively overcome these challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-educational-techniques">Reevaluating educational techniques</h2>



Quigley points out that while there has been considerable emphasis on refining curricula, perhaps not enough attention has been given to the actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process of learning</a>. He believes that understanding and adapting to the learning needs of students can significantly enhance their educational success.



In his recent book "<a href="https://www.routledge.com/Why-Learning-Fails-And-What-To-Do-About-It/Quigley/p/book/9781032648767#:~:text=%22Why%20Learning%20Fails%20sets%20out,unreliability%20of%20learning%20necessitates%20failure." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Why Learning Fails</a>," the expert draws from the latest research to provide practical advice for maximizing student engagement and retention. 



“In focusing so hard on curriculum – and considering what teachers teach – have we given sufficient attention to how pupils learn? Have we considered pupils’ motivations and emotions as much as their prior knowledge and memory capacity?”



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



Quigley explains that a high-quality curriculum is essential, but it needs to be paired with a deep understanding of the diverse learning profiles students bring into the classroom. 



“When we focus on creating the conditions for how pupils learn best, we recognize that pupils attend school with different levels of prior knowledge (and misconceptions), different motivations and interests,” he says. “Different beliefs about themselves and what they can learn also play a crucial role."



Moreover, Quigley delves into the myriad ways learning can falter, suggesting that by understanding these pitfalls, teachers can better support their students. 



Among the challenges are the constraints of working memory, gaps in foundational knowledge, and the distractions that lead to wandering focus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-working-memory-limitations">Addressing working memory limitations</h2>



Alex Quigley also discusses the critical role of working memory in learning, noting its limitations and the impact on student performance. 



“A problem for many teachers is that they don’t have a strong understanding of working memory – its limits, factors that inhibit its functioning, along with practical supports.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-effective-learning">Strategies for effective learning</h2>



To combat these challenges, Quigley recommends strategies that cater to the inherent limits of working memory. 



Engaging students through emotive storytelling, chunking information into manageable segments, and employing worked examples are just a few techniques that can enhance learning. 



Reiterating information multiple times also helps in reinforcing and correcting misconceptions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-focus-and-planning">Enhancing focus and planning</h2>



The expert further suggests methods to improve student concentration and planning skills, which are vital in a world full of digital distractions.



“Pupils can struggle for focus and concentration in a world of mass distraction. Successful teaching becomes a complex matter of making the curriculum ‘clever and vivid’ for pupils,” explains Quigley.



Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of explicit modeling in teaching students how to manage their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-robots-can-help-students-stay-focused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attention</a> effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-teachers-through-adaptive-expertise">Empowering teachers through adaptive expertise</h2>



Ultimately, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on the support systems available to teachers.



Quigley argues that to convert educational challenges into successes, teachers need extensive support, including time, training, and appropriate tools.



“Crucially, teachers need ample support – time, training, and tools – to move from experienced teachers to adaptive experts,” he states.



Furthermore, adapting teaching methods to accommodate the varied and complex needs of students is essential for overcoming the current challenges in education. 



By focusing on how students learn and providing teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, we can foster a more effective and engaging learning environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methods-used-to-help-students-learn">Methods used to help students learn</h2>



Education systems often use a variety of methods to help students learn. These methods cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring a more effective and comprehensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/school-field-trips-linked-to-better-student-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning experience</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Visual learning</h3>



Visual learning involves observing pictures, diagrams, videos, and demonstrations. Visual aids can help clarify concepts and provide memorable references.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Auditory learning</h3>



Students learn by listening to explanations, discussions, lectures, and audio recordings. This method is effective for those who process information better when they hear it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reading/writing</h3>



Students also learn by reading textbooks, articles, and writing notes or essays. This approach benefits those who learn best through written words and structured information.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kinesthetic learning</h3>



Many children benefit from engaging in physical activities rather than watching or listening. This could include hands-on experiments, building models, or using manipulatives. It's particularly effective for those who need to "do" to understand.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Interactive learning</h3>



Interactive learning includes group activities, class discussions, and collaborative projects, which enhance understanding through social interaction.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reflective learning</h3>



Reflective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-brains-sync-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> involves thinking about and analyzing what has been learned. Reflective practices can deepen understanding and help integrate knowledge with personal experiences.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Technology-enhanced learning</h3>



Digital tools and platforms like educational software, online courses, and virtual simulations help to reinforce and facilitate learning experiences.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Problem-based learning</h3>



This learning method is focused on tackling real-world problems or scenarios, encouraging critical thinking and application of knowledge in practical contexts.



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Understanding how students learn is key to helping them succeed

Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school...

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant species, have historically posed significant risks to cattle due to their lethal nature. Despite their toxicity and the clear signals from plants that contain these alkaloids discouraging consumption, bella <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moths-may-struggle-to-move-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moths</a> (Utetheisa ornatrix) have uniquely adapted to not only consume these substances but also utilize them as a defense mechanism and a means to attract mates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-adaptations-of-bella-moths-nbsp">Genetic adaptations of bella moths&nbsp;</h2>



In a new study led by the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, scientists have explored the genetic adaptations that allow bella moths to thrive on a diet rich in these dangerous compounds.&nbsp;



The research, which involved sequencing the bella moth genome and analyzing genetic data from over 150 museum specimens, some over a century old, aimed to discover the evolutionary origins of bella moths and their close relatives, as well as the development of their distinctive <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/butterflies-wing-patterns-colors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wing patterns</a>.



“We’ve managed to show that you can use museum specimens to answer genetic questions that normally require complicated laboratory techniques,” explained study co-author Andrei Sourakov, collections coordinator at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/mcguire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity</a>. Sourakov, who has dedicated 15 years to studying bella moths, emphasized the significance of genome sequencing in advancing our understanding of these resilient insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategy-of-bella-moths">Unique survival strategy of bella moths</h2>



The findings reveal that bella moths, which inhabit regions across eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, exhibit a unique survival strategy by being conspicuously visible during the day instead of hiding from predators.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deterring-predators-nbsp">Deterring predators&nbsp;</h3>



Their vibrant wing colors serve as a warning about their toxicity, effectively deterring potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predators-help-prevent-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> such as spiders and birds.



“Banana spiders will cut them out of their webs,” Sourakov said, adding that wolf spiders and birds will avoid them. “When caught, they produce foaming liquid that tastes bad made almost entirely out of alkaloids.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attracting-mates">Attracting mates</h3>



This defense mechanism is further found during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a>, where females emit a plume of alkaloid-rich aerosols to attract males.&nbsp;



The mating process involves the male moth transferring not only sperm but additional alkaloids to the female, which she uses to protect her eggs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-evolutionary-process-nbsp">Complex evolutionary process&nbsp;</h2>



The study not only sheds light on the unique dietary adaptations of bella moths but also underscores the broader implications of their survival tactics. The discovery that bella moths possess multiple copies of the gene responsible for their alkaloid detoxification enzyme suggests a complex evolutionary process that may have involved gene duplication, a phenomenon observed in various other species as well.



According to the researchers, the interaction with pyrrolizidine alkaloids could be a key factor behind the bella moth’s unusually long lifespan, as the stress imposed by these toxins may activate biological mechanisms that contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/certain-stress-boost-longevity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a>.



“Certain types of stress on biological systems result in a longer lifespan. It could be that the interaction bella moths have with alkaloids is not only the reason why it makes sense for them to live long lives, but also one of the mechanisms behind it,” Sourakov speculated.



This study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2319726121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, both deepens our understanding of the complex interplay between bella moths and their toxic environment and opens new avenues for research into how other species adapt to and exploit toxic substances within their ecosystems.



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



Bella moths are strikingly colored moths found primarily in the Americas. Their vibrant wings are a mix of pink, white, and yellow hues with black spots, serving as a warning to predators about their toxicity. This toxicity is derived from their larval diet of plants in the Crotalaria genus, which contain poisonous alkaloids that the larvae retain into adulthood.



The bella moth's life cycle is closely intertwined with its host plants. The female moth lays eggs on the underside of leaves, which hatch into larvae that feed on the toxic leaves, gaining their own chemical defenses against predators. This adaptation showcases a fascinating example of coevolution between the bella moth and the plants it depends on.



In addition to their ecological role, bella moths contribute to their ecosystem by participating in pollination. Their bright coloring not only warns predators but also attracts the attention of researchers and nature enthusiasts, making them a subject of interest in studies of evolutionary biology and ecology.



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Bella moths use toxins to deter predators and attract mates

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant...

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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

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