<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the northeast coast of Somalia. This region, which borders the Indian Ocean, has a mix of sandy beaches and rugged terrain, including the Cal Madow mountain range.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-northeast-somalia">A closer look at Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>"The detailed image reveals a desert landscape etched by wind and water," said NASA. "Over time, streams have cut canyons into the earth. But streams in this region are ephemeral, making groundwater the main source of fresh water."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The water table is shallow (wells are typically drilled less than 20 meters deep) and meets the surface toward the coast, creating springs."</p>



<p>According to <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, bidirectional winds sculpted the tan, brown, and reddish sand into transverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sand-dunes-hold-a-record-of-fire-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sand dunes</a> visible near the stream’s deltas. "The orientation of the sand dunes indicates that they were likely formed by summer winds blowing up the coast from the southwest."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy-of-northeast-somalia">Economy of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>The economy of northeast Somalia, specifically the autonomous region of Puntland, is primarily based on fishing, livestock, and trade. </p>



<p>Puntland has a long coastline along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, and the waters are home to various types of fish, including tuna, mackerel, and lobster. </p>



<p>However, the fishing industry is underdeveloped and faces challenges such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> by foreign vessels.</p>



<p>The arid landscape is well-suited for raising goats, sheep, camels, and cattle. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-in-livestock-are-major-drivers-of-antibiotic-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Livestock</a> is the main export, with animals being sold to markets in the Middle East.</p>



<p>The region is home to important port cities like Bosaso, which is a hub for trade and commerce. These ports are vital for both the local and national economy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-northeast-somalia">Wildlife of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>The region includes a mix of desert-adapted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-desert-plants-are-not-immune-to-climate-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> and those that thrive in the more fertile areas near the coast and highlands. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammals">Mammals</h3>



<p>Large mammals such as the Somali wild ass, a critically endangered species, and the gerenuk, a long-necked antelope, are among the most notable inhabitants. </p>



<p>The Somali wild ass is particularly suited to the harsh desert environment, while the gerenuk can survive long periods without water by feeding on moisture-rich vegetation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds">Birds</h3>



<p>Birdlife in Northeast Somalia is also abundant, with a variety of species adapted to different habitats ranging from coastal areas to dry savannahs. </p>



<p>Raptors such as the Somali ostrich and various eagles can be spotted, along with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-migratory-birds-navigate-with-such-accuracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migratory birds</a> that pass through the region during seasonal changes. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-marine-life-reptiles-and-insects">Marine life, reptiles, and insects</h3>



<p>The coastal waters, especially along the Gulf of Aden, are home to dolphins, whales, and a variety of fish species.</p>



<p>The region's reptiles include various species of lizards, snakes, and tortoises, many of which are well-adapted to the arid conditions. Insects, particularly locusts and butterflies, play significant roles in the local ecosystem.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-conservation">Wildlife conservation </h3>



<p>Despite its arid climate, Northeast Somalia's diverse ecosystems support a surprising range of wildlife, although many species face threats from habitat loss, overgrazing, and hunting. </p>



<p>Conservation efforts are ongoing, but the region's political instability has often hampered effective wildlife management and protection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-northeast-somalia">Culture of Northeast Somalia </h2>



<p>Northeast Somalia's culture is a mosaic of tradition, religion, and external influences, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of its people.</p>



<p>The region's culture is deeply intertwined with Islam, which influences daily life, social norms, and celebrations. Poetry and storytelling are highly valued, with oral traditions serving as a key method for passing down history and values. </p>



<p>Somalis from this region are known for their hospitality, with the concept of "sooryo" emphasizing the importance of welcoming guests.</p>



<p>Family ties and clan affiliations play a significant role in the social structure, dictating everything from marriage to conflict resolution. </p>



<p>The people of Northeast Somalia have a strong sense of identity and pride, which is often expressed through traditional dances, music, and clothing. Despite modern influences, there is a conscious effort to preserve traditional customs, especially in rural areas.</p>



<p>The photograph was captured on August 9, 2023 as the International Space Station orbited over the Horn of Africa.</p>



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



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Northeast Somalia: A landscape shaped by wind and water

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut view of the northeast coast of Somalia. This region, which borders the Indian Ocean, has a mix of sandy beaches and rugged terrain, including the Cal Madow mountain range. A closer look at Northeast Somalia "The detailed image reveals a desert landscape etched by wind and water," said NASA. "Over time, streams have cut canyons into the earth. But streams in this region are ephemeral, making groundwater the main source of...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Southern Observatory (ESO) features the Dark Wolf Nebula, located around 5,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Scorpius.</p>



<p>According to ESO, this image of the dark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-ring-nebula-as-it-has-never-been-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> creates the illusion of a wolf-like silhouette against a colorful cosmic backdrop.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This image takes up an area in the sky equivalent to four full Moons, but is actually part of an even larger nebula called Gum 55. If you look closely, the wolf could even be a werewolf, its hands ready to grab unsuspecting bystanders,” noted <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-dark-nebulae">Observing dark nebulae </h2>



<p>Dark nebulae are dense regions in space filled with gas and dust that absorb visible light, making them appear as dark patches against brighter backgrounds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Unlike emission or reflection nebulae, dark nebulae do not glow on their own. Instead, they obstruct and obscure the light from stars and other objects lying behind them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This characteristic makes them challenging to observe using visible-light telescopes, as they absorb and scatter light rather than reflecting or emitting it.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, when viewed in infrared, where their obscuring effect is reduced, dark nebulae reveal intricate details about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular clouds</a> they contain.</p>



<p>According to ESO, astronomers study these clouds of frozen dust because they often contain new stars in the making.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-wolf-nebula-nbsp">Dark Wolf Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Dark Wolf Nebula is part of a larger complex known as the Lupus Molecular Cloud, one of several significant star-forming regions close to Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Inside of dark nebulae, the conditions are prime for star formation. The dense gas and dust clump together under gravitational forces. As these clouds contract, they heat up, eventually igniting nuclear fusion and forming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-molecule-detected-in-space-where-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new stars</a>.</p>



<p>The Dark Wolf Nebula is known for revealing young, low-mass stars - or T Tauri stars - which are in the early stages of their evolution. These stars are still surrounded by disks of material that may eventually form new planets.</p>



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



<p>Scorpius is one of the most recognizable constellations in the sky. It resembles a scorpion with a long, curved tail and stinger.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Located in the southern sky, Scorpius is especially visible during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere and during the winter months in the Southern Hemisphere. </p>



<p>The constellation is often associated with the story of Orion in Greek mythology. According to legend, the scorpion was sent by the goddess Artemis to kill Orion, the great hunter, either as punishment for his arrogance or to protect her animals, depending on the version of the tale.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The gods later placed both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion</a> and Scorpius in the sky, but in opposite parts of the heavens so they would never be seen together - as Scorpius rises in the east and Orion sets in the west.</p>



<p>Scorpius contains several notable stars and deep-sky objects. Its brightest star, Antares, is a red supergiant often referred to as the "heart of the scorpion" due to its reddish hue and central position. </p>



<p>Antares is one of the largest visible stars in the sky and has a luminosity that is tens of thousands of times greater than that of our Sun. </p>



<p>Scorpius is located close to the core of the Milky Way, making it a rich region for star clusters and nebulae. Among these are the Butterfly Cluster and the Ptolemy Cluster - both of which are visible to the naked eye under dark skies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-dark-wolf-nebula">Image of the Dark Wolf Nebula </h2>



<p>“This image shows in spectacular detail how the dark wolf stands out against the glowing star-forming clouds behind it,” noted ESO.</p>



<p>“The colorful clouds are built up mostly of hydrogen gas and glow in reddish tones excited by the intense UV radiation from the newborn stars within them.”</p>



<p>The picture was created from images taken at different times. Each of the images has a filter that makes a different color of light visible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observations of the Dark Wolf Nebula provide astronomers with valuable information about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution of stars</a> and the environments in which they form.</p>



<p>The image was captured by the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at ESO’s Paranal Observatory in Chile.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>:</strong> ESO/VPHAS+ team</p>



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Dark Wolf Nebula in the constellation Scorpius

Today's Image of the Day from the European Southern Observatory...

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features a strong extratropical cyclone, which struck the Pacific Northwest on November 19, 2024.</p>



<p>“The storm knocked over trees and left nearly 600,000 people without power in Washington state on November 20, according to news reports,” noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fearthobservatory.nasa.gov%2Fimages%2F153605%2Fextratropical-cyclone-whips-over-the-pacific-northwest&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>. “This image shows the storm system at 1:50 p.m. Pacific Time on November 19.” </p>



<p>According to NASA, mature extratropical cyclones like this often feature comma-shaped cloud patterns that are the product of ‘conveyor belt’ circulation. “Heavy precipitation is often present near the low-pressure head of the comma.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-the-extratropical-cyclone-nbsp">Impacts of the extratropical cyclone&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The “bomb cyclone” brought <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhow-much-does-climate-change-influence-extreme-weather-events%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe weather</a>, including strong winds exceeding 70 mph, heavy rainfall, and snow in higher elevations. These conditions led to significant disruptions, including downed trees and hazardous travel conditions.</p>



<p>In urban and rural areas, damage to infrastructure and properties was substantial, with emergency responders and utility crews working around the clock to restore services.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, mountain passes faced dangerous blizzard conditions, with up to 20 inches of snow accumulating in some areas, severely affecting travel.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-pace-of-acceleration">Rapid pace of acceleration</h2>



<p>Chris Dolce is a meteorologist at The Weather Channel. He noted that on the evening of November 19, the storm’s central pressure dropped to levels on par with a storm in October 2021, which saw the lowest pressure in about 50 years of records for that region.</p>



<p>“The pace of the storm’s intensification was more than double the criteria for bombogenesis - a popular term that describes a midlatitude cyclone that rapidly intensifies into a ‘bomb cyclone,’” said NASA.</p>



<p>The rapidly dropping atmospheric pressure at the center of the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fcoastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">storm</a> caused winds to intensify quickly. According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, wind gusts reached up to 77 miles per hour in the mountains southeast of the city.</p>



<p>“The cyclone kicked off a long-duration atmospheric river that forecasters expect will park over Northern California and southern Oregon through November 22. The National Weather Service estimates that these areas could see rainfall totals of 12 to 16 inches over the duration of the storm,” noted NASA.</p>



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



<p>An extratropical cyclone is a large-scale weather system that forms outside the tropics, typically between 30° and 60° latitude, and is associated with areas of low pressure.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-source">Energy source</h3>



<p>These cyclones obtain their energy from the contrast in temperature between air masses, such as cold polar air and warm subtropical air. This contrast creates instability and drives atmospheric circulation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development-of-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Development of extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Extratropical cyclones usually have well-defined warm and cold fronts. They often develop along the polar front, where cold and warm air masses meet.</p>



<p>A common area for their development is the mid-latitudes, particularly in regions like the North Atlantic and North Pacific.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-conditions">Weather conditions</h3>



<p>Extratropical cyclones can bring a variety of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fhuman-activity-is-rapidly-changing-weather-in-north-america%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather conditions</a>, including heavy rain, snow, strong winds, and severe storms. They are responsible for much of the day-to-day weather in mid-latitude regions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-vs-extratropical-cyclones-nbsp">Tropical vs. extratropical cyclones&nbsp;</h3>



<p>While <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Ffast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropical cyclones</a> derive energy from warm ocean waters and have a warm core, extratropical cyclones gain energy from temperature contrasts and have a cold core.</p>



<p>Tropical cyclones typically lack fronts, whereas extratropical cyclones are defined by them.</p>



<p>These systems are essential in distributing heat and energy across the planet, playing a critical role in the Earth's climate system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caught-off-guard-by-the-weather">Caught off guard by the weather</h2>



<p>The bomb cyclone in the Pacific Northwest highlights the importance of <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fnew-era-in-forecasting-ai-will-improve-extreme-weather-warnings%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparedness</a>, as residents were urged to secure loose outdoor items, stock emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel.</p>



<p>The fire department in Bellevue, east of Seattle, posted a Severe Weather Safety alert on Facebook: “It’s severe out there. Trees are coming down all over the city, with multiple falling onto homes. If you are able, head to the lowest floor you can and stay away from windows. Do not go outside if you can avoid it.”</p>



<p>The image was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on NOAA’s JPSS-1 (Joint Polar Satellite System-1).</p>



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



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Bomb cyclone rapidly intensified in the Pacific Northwest

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the spiral galaxy IC 5332, which is located over 29 million light-years away from Earth.</p>



<p>The galaxy spans approximately 66,000 light-years in diameter. This makes it notably smaller than our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, which is just over 100,000 light-years in diameter. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unprecedented-look-at-ic-5332">Unprecedented look at IC 5332</h2>



<p>In a stunning photo release by NASA and ESA in 2022, the spiral galaxy IC 5332 was presented in an unprecedented level of detail. The images were captured by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-incredible-new-image-of-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a>.</p>



<p>This feat was made possible through the use of the Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which captures images in the mid-infrared spectrum.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-perspective-from-earth">Unique perspective from Earth</h2>



<p>One of the most striking features of IC 5332, as revealed by these observations, is its almost perfect face-on orientation relative to Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This unique perspective allows astronomers to clearly observe and admire the symmetrical arrangement of its spiral arms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-unveils-ic-5332-in-new-light">Webb unveils IC 5332 in new light</h2>



<p>The clarity of these images represents a significant advancement over previous observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope, which imaged IC 5332 in ultraviolet and visible light.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While Hubble’s images revealed the galaxy’s symmetrical spiral arms, James Webb’s MIRI has unveiled these structures as a complex web of gas that emits infrared light at various temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-miri-instrument-on-james-webb-nbsp">The MIRI instrument on James Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Capturing this range of infrared light is no simple task. It requires highly specialized instruments that must be maintained at extremely cold temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The MIRI instrument on the James Webb Space Telescope is specifically designed for this purpose and performs exceptionally well. Its capabilities allow astronomers to see aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> that are otherwise hidden in other wavelengths.</p>



<p>The detailed images provided by MIRI offer more than just a visual spectacle; they provide valuable data about the composition and temperature of the gases that make up the spiral arms of IC 5332. </p>



<p>This can help scientists understand the processes of star formation within the galaxy and how these processes compare to those in our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-features-of-the-universe">Hidden features of the universe </h2>



<p>The images of IC 5332 served as a critical test of the James Webb Space Telescope’s capabilities in observing the universe in infrared light. </p>



<p>As astronomers continue to explore with Webb’s full suite of instruments, many more hidden features of the universe will be revealed.</p>



<p>The information provided by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-second-most-distant-galaxy-in-pandoras-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> not only expands our understanding of the cosmos but also enhances our appreciation for the complex and beautiful structures that exist in our universe.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies-like-ic-5332">Spiral galaxies like IC 5332</h2>



<p>Spiral galaxies are some of the most visually striking objects in the universe, characterized by their rotating arms that extend from a central nucleus, giving them a distinct spiral appearance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These galaxies are primarily made up of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, and a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. These are often surrounded by a much fainter halo of stars, many of which reside in globular clusters.</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies differ from other galaxy types, such as elliptical and irregular galaxies, in their structure and content. </p>



<p>The spiral arms are sites of ongoing star formation and are brighter than the rest of the disk because of the young, hot stars that are typically found there. The arms appear distinct because of their density waves, which compress the gas and dust, leading to star formation.</p>



<p>The rotation of the spiral arms also contributes to the galaxy's flat shape due to the centrifugal forces acting on the disk. The central bulge can vary in size and often contains older, red stars.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Some spiral galaxies have a bar-shaped structure that extends from the central bulge, making them barred spirals. This bar affects the motion of stars and gas within the galaxy and can influence star formation activity.</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies are an important focus of study because they contain a significant amount of visible matter and play a crucial role in understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their distinct features also make them particularly useful for studying the laws of physics under extreme conditions, such as high densities and velocities.</p>



<p>Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA, J. Lee and the PHANGS-JWST and PHANGS-HST Teams</p>



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Spiral galaxy IC 5332: A complex web of gas and light

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features the Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is a tributary of the Congo River, one of the largest rivers in the world by discharge and depth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Ruki River, previously known as the Busira, merges with the Momboyo River near the town of Basankusu to become the Lulonga River, which eventually flows into the Congo River at the town of Lisala.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-waters-of-the-ruki-river">Dark waters of the Ruki River</h2>



<p>"If the appearance of the muddy Amazon River evokes a coffee cut with cream, the Ruki River, coursing gently through the Congo Basin, is like a dark tea," said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>"On its slow path through mostly untouched lowland rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the water leaches organic material from vegetation, prompting some researchers to think it is one of the darkest blackwater rivers on Earth."</p>



<p>According to NASA, scientists are finding that the dissolved material in this distinctive water offers clues about the carbon cycle of tropical forests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-compounds-in-the-ruki-river">Organic compounds in the Ruki River</h2>



<p>In a recent study, researchers measured the chemical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-rivers-keep-antimicrobial-resistant-genes-at-bay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">composition</a> and flow of the Ruki for the first time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The study reported that, as the water color suggests, the Ruki is rich in dissolved organic carbon compounds," said NASA.</p>



<p>"It contains four times as much organic carbon as the Congo River and 1.5 times as much as the Rio Negro, the world’s largest blackwater river and a major tributary of the Amazon."</p>



<p>Due to this heavy carbon load, the researchers concluded that tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought.</p>



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



<p>The river is vital for the livelihoods of local communities. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fishing-communities-cooperate-to-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fishing</a> is a crucial activity, with many people depending on it for sustenance and income. The river also supports agriculture along its banks, where communities grow crops.</p>



<p>In many parts of the DRC, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-are-warming-up-and-losing-oxygen-faster-than-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a> like the Ruki are crucial transportation corridors due to the challenging and often nonexistent road infrastructure. </p>



<p>The river enables the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and access to markets, health care, and education.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-of-the-ruki-river">Wildlife of the Ruki River </h2>



<p>The region around the Ruki River is home to diverse wildlife. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second-largest tropical rainforest area in the world, which is a critical habitat for endangered species.</p>



<p>Among the most notable species are elephants and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-mean-chimpanzees-fare-better-in-life-than-nice-ones/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a>, whose populations thrive in the surrounding forests. Other primates such as bonobos also live in this region, making it a critical area for primate conservation.</p>



<p>The river itself is home to various species of fish that are crucial to local livelihoods. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are often found in the water.</p>



<p>Birds like kingfishers, herons, and egrets frequent the riverbanks - making it a haven for birdwatchers.</p>



<p>The Ruki River also supports several species of reptiles and amphibians - some of which are unique to the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-the-river-s-resources">Managing the river's resources </h2>



<p>The region faces several challenges, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-directly-linked-to-atmospheric-mercury-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>, overfishing, and environmental degradation, which threaten its ecological balance and the livelihoods of people who depend on it. </p>



<p>Efforts to manage and conserve the river's resources are vital for sustainable development.</p>



<p>Understanding and protecting the Ruki River and its surroundings are crucial for the DRC's environmental sustainability, economic development, and the well-being of its communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landscapes-of-the-drc">Landscapes of the DRC</h2>



<p>The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boasts some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in Africa, reflecting its vast size and ecological richness. Dominated by the Congo Basin, the country is a haven for biodiversity.</p>



<p>Beyond its rainforests, the DRC's landscapes shift dramatically. In the east, the terrain rises into rugged mountains, including the Virunga and Rwenzori ranges, where snow-capped peaks like Mount Stanley pierce the sky. </p>



<p>This region is also marked by active volcanoes such as Mount Nyiragongo, which harbors one of the world’s largest lava lakes, creating a dramatic and otherworldly spectacle.</p>



<p>To the south and west, the country transitions to expansive savannas with rolling grasslands and scattered trees. These areas contrast sharply with the lushness of the forests, providing vital habitats for species like lions and antelope. </p>



<p>Rivers like the Ruki are a dominant feature, with the mighty Congo River coursing through the heart of the country. Its tributaries shape the lives of millions.</p>



<p>The image was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.</p>



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



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Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the colors of fall across the continent of Europe. </p>



<p>“This compilation of images, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission, showcases the characteristic hues of autumn in different European countries,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Sentinel-2/Earth_from_Space_Autumn_foliage_across_Europe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“Autumn foliage is one of nature's most stunning displays, turning deciduous forests into landscapes painted with vibrant colors. As temperatures cool and daylight shortens, deciduous trees cease producing chlorophyll so that leaves turn yellow, orange and red – the colors of autumn.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-of-fall-in-europe-nbsp">Colors of fall in Europe&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The colors of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fall-will-be-unusually-warm-across-most-us-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fall</a> vary across regions due to the diversity of tree species and the climate.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northern-europe">Northern Europe</h3>



<p>In countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, vibrant yellows and golds dominate, especially in forests of birch and aspen. Deep red hues come from the native rowan and some types of maple.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-western-and-central-europe">Western and Central Europe</h3>



<p>The landscapes of France, Germany, and Switzerland showcase golden and copper tones. Beech, oak, and chestnut trees create waves of yellow and bronze, while occasional maples provide shades of bright red.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eastern-europe">Eastern Europe</h3>



<p>Countries like Poland, Ukraine, and Hungary experience a full mix of autumn colors, with maple and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-oak-trees-isoprene-emissions-air-pollution-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oak forests</a> turning red and orange. The Carpathian Mountains are especially vibrant during this season.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-southern-europe">Southern Europe</h3>



<p>In Mediterranean areas like Italy, Spain, and Greece, fall colors are more subtle but still beautiful. Although many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-struggling-to-breathe-store-co2-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> are evergreen, higher elevations display patches of golden-yellow and rusty tones from poplars, chestnuts, and maples.</p>



<p>The European fall color season typically peaks in October, depending on altitude and latitude. The dramatic landscapes of Europe - mountains, lakes, and historic villages - further enhance the stunning display of autumn colors across the continent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-the-leaves-change-colors">Why do the leaves change colors?</h2>



<p>Leaves change color in the fall due to changes in daylight, temperature, and the chemical processes within the leaves.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During spring and summer, leaves are green because they contain chlorophyll, a pigment that allows them to absorb sunlight and produce food through photosynthesis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, as the days get shorter and temperatures drop in the fall, trees begin preparing for winter by slowing down their food production.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decrease-in-chlorophyll">Decrease in chlorophyll</h3>



<p>With less sunlight, trees stop producing chlorophyll, which is highly sensitive to light and temperature. As chlorophyll breaks down, the green color fades, revealing other pigments in the leaves.</p>



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



<p>There are always other pigments in the leaves, but they’re hidden by the green chlorophyll during the growing season. In fall, these pigments become visible.</p>



<p>Carotenoids produce yellow and orange hues, which we see in trees like birch, beech, and aspen.</p>



<p>Anthocyanins are pigments that create reds, purples, and deep oranges. They form in the fall when sugars get trapped in the leaves. Trees like maple and sumac are known for their red and purple leaves.</p>



<p>Tannins produce brown colors and are especially visible in oaks.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weather-and-climate-influence">Weather and climate influence</h3>



<p>Temperature, sunlight, and soil moisture also affect the intensity and duration of fall colors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Sunny days and cool nights help produce more vibrant reds and purples. Wet or cloudy weather, on the other hand, can lead to more muted colors.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the color change is a part of the tree’s preparation for winter dormancy. By shedding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-discovered-in-plant-leaves/">leaves</a>, trees conserve water and energy, improving their chances of surviving the winter months.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-the-fall-colors-affect-us">How do the fall colors affect us?</h2>



<p>Fall colors can have a significant impact on us emotionally, mentally, and even physically. They provide us with a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and comfort.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The vibrant colors of fall can evoke positive emotions and improve our mood. Studies show that exposure to natural landscapes with diverse colors can reduce stress, enhance feelings of happiness, and promote a sense of well-being.</p>



<p>Nature’s changing colors have a calming effect on our minds, providing mental clarity and relaxation. The natural beauty of fall landscapes can encourage mindfulness, allowing us to be present and appreciate our surroundings, which is beneficial for mental health and focus.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-to-nature">Connection to nature</h3>



<p>Autumn’s beauty encourages people to go outside, whether it’s hiking through colorful forests, driving along scenic routes, or simply taking a walk in the park.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This connection with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-walking-quantifiably-improves-brain-health-and-functioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> has benefits for physical health, improving immunity and reducing blood pressure, and it also strengthens our environmental appreciation.</p>



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



<p>The cycle of fall reminds us of change, letting go, and renewal. For many, fall is a time for introspection and resetting goals, as the season symbolizes transformation and the approach of a new chapter in life.</p>



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Fall colors transform Europe's landscape 

<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, where snow has finally returned after a record-breaking absence.</p>



<p>The Japan Meteorological Agency officially confirmed the presence of snow on Mount Fuji's peak on Thursday. The previous day, the snow could not yet be confirmed due to clouds obstructing the view of the summit.</p>



<p>“The Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission captured this image of Mount Fuji's iconic snowcap on November 7, a day after snow was first spotted by the Japan Mereological Agency’s Shizuoka branch,” noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esa.int%2FESA_Multimedia%2FImages&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-fuji-with-no-snow">Mount Fuji with no snow</h2>



<p>This year, Mount Fuji set a new <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fmount-fujis-snow-is-missing-for-first-time-in-130-years%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record</a> for the latest date without snowfall since records began in 1894. By the end of October, the iconic peak remained bare, surpassing the previous records of October 26, held in 2016 and 1955. </p>



<p>The snow delay is attributed to record-breaking high temperatures in Japan throughout the summer and early fall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The heat was influenced by factors such as El Niño, unusually warm <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fpacific-ocean-temperatures-highest-in-650-years-greatly-harming-coral-reefs%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperatures</a>, and shifts in the jet stream - all of which contributed to sustained warmth and hindered the usual cooling needed for snowfall​​​​​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-climate-concerns">Broader climate concerns</h2>



<p>This unusual absence of snow on Mount Fuji has raised concerns about broader impacts of climate change. Snow on Mount Fuji contributes to regional freshwater supplies, suggesting potential downstream effects on water availability if these trends continue.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Scientists are closely studying these seasonal shifts to understand their long-term environmental implications​​​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-mount-fuji-s-snow">Cultural significance of Mount Fuji's snow</h2>



<p>Snow on Mount Fuji holds deep cultural significance for Japan, symbolizing purity, beauty, and spiritual presence. In Japanese art and literature, the snow-capped Mount Fuji is celebrated as a representation of the changing seasons, serenity, and natural perfection. </p>



<p>For centuries, it has inspired countless artists, including Edo-period woodblock masters like Hokusai, whose famous series <em>Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji</em> highlights the mountain's snowy peak as a central theme.</p>



<p>The snow on Mount Fuji also holds spiritual significance. Many Japanese people view the mountain as sacred and associate its snow-covered peak with divine purity and tranquility. </p>



<p>Shinto and Buddhist pilgrims have historically considered Fuji’s summit a place of spiritual connection, and its snowy cap enhances this reverence by emphasizing the mountain’s sublime, almost otherworldly beauty​​​​.</p>



<p>Mount Fuji and its snow cap have become a national symbol of resilience and identity, even influencing aspects of Japanese aesthetics. The snow represents harmony with nature and the cyclical beauty of life, which are core themes in Japanese cultural philosophy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seasons-are-changing-with-the-climate">Seasons are changing with the climate</h2>



<p><a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fextreme-ocean-heating-signals-alarm-for-a-3c-warmer-world%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is shifting the timing and length of seasons worldwide. Rising global temperatures have led to significant changes in seasonal patterns, affecting when plants bloom, animals migrate, and weather patterns stabilize.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-shifts">Temperature shifts</h3>



<p>Warmer global temperatures have contributed to longer and more intense <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fsummers-seasons-warm-faster-than-winters-earths-climate-history%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">summers</a>. For instance, spring arrives earlier in many parts of the world, with evidence showing that plants are budding and blooming sooner than they did several decades ago​​.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This extended warmth shortens winter and affects the typical cycles that ecosystems depend on.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-ecosystems">Impact on ecosystems</h3>



<p>The shift in seasons can disrupt ecosystems that have evolved to rely on consistent seasonal changes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, migratory <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.earth.com%2Fnews%2Fbirds-produce-fewer-offspring-as-spring-arrives-earlier-across-our-warming-world%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> often time their movements based on day length and food availability. If the seasons shift and food sources appear or disappear earlier than usual, these birds may struggle to adapt. </p>



<p>Similarly, in agricultural systems, unpredictable frost dates and changing rainy seasons can reduce crop yields and impact food security​​​​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-cycles-and-weather-patterns">Water cycles and weather patterns</h3>



<p>Seasonal shifts also affect water availability. Warmer winters with less snow impact water supplies, especially in regions dependent on snowpack for spring and summer water flow. This can lead to drier conditions and exacerbate droughts, as seen in many parts of North America and Asia​​.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the seasonal shifts driven by climate change have far-reaching effects on natural ecosystems, agriculture, and human infrastructure - making climate adaptation an urgent priority.</p>



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Snow returns to Mount Fuji after record absence 

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the aftermath of devastating floods in the Valencia region of Eastern Spain.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On October 29, 2024, torrential rainfall unleashed nearly a year’s worth of precipitation in just eight hours, leading to catastrophic flash floods that affected a vast area from Málaga to Valencia. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flash-floods-in-valencia">Flash floods in Valencia </h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flash-floods-are-set-to-become-much-more-common-in-the-u-s/">Floodwaters</a> submerged entire neighborhoods and agricultural lands. Many roads and infrastructure were overwhelmed almost instantly, stranding vehicles and prompting widespread evacuations. Water levels rose faster than emergency services could respond.</p>



<p>One resident of Paiporta, near Valencia, told the BBC that when the water started to rise it was "like a tsunami wave."</p>



<p>“In a matter of minutes, flash floods caused by heavy downpours in eastern Spain swept away everything in their path. With no time to react, people were trapped in vehicles, homes and businesses,” reported the Associated Press.</p>



<p>More than 200 people were killed and thousands of people were rescued. According to SOS Desaparecidos, as many as 1,300 people remained unaccounted for on Friday, three days after the floods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnitude-of-the-tragedy-nbsp">Magnitude of the tragedy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Ángel Víctor Torres, the Minister for Territorial Policy and Democratic Memory, said: “The fact that we can’t give a number of the missing persons indicates the magnitude of the tragedy.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some areas, including the Spanish town of Alfafar, are completely cut off from communication.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Juan Ramón Adsuara, the mayor of Alfafar, said the aid isn't nearly enough for residents trapped in an "extreme situation."</p>



<p>"There are people living with corpses at home. It's very sad. We are organizing ourselves, but we are running out of everything," Adsuara told reporters. "We go with vans to Valencia, we buy and we come back, but here we are totally forgotten."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-government-warning-was-not-issued-in-time">Government warning was not issued in time</h2>



<p>On Tuesday morning, Spain's meteorological agency Aemet warned that torrential rains were forecast for the region of Valencia, before issuing a&nbsp; "maximum red alert.”</p>



<p>Carlos Mazon, Valencia’s regional president, said the government sent out an SMS alert reserved for the “worst possible scenario.” But according to a report from CNN, that alert was sent hours too late.</p>



<p>“By 5 p.m., Valencia’s emergency services were swamped by hundreds of pleas for help throughout the region,” wrote Atika Shubert, a CNN Senior International Correspondent.</p>



<p>“It was at 8 p.m. that cell phones finally buzzed with the public alert telling residents to stay indoors. Much too little, much too late, even for those downstream of the raging water who might otherwise have had time to prepare.”</p>



<p>The BBC also noted that many people have questioned the timing of the government's warning, which arrived more than 12 hours after Aemet issued its first red alert.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-weather-in-a-warming-climate">Extreme weather in a warming climate</h2>



<p>The deadly floods in Valencia were primarily caused by an extreme weather event that brought record-breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-events-are-interconnected-around-the-globe/">rainfall</a>. The intense downpour was fueled by unusually warm Mediterranean Sea temperatures, which increased moisture in the atmosphere and intensified the rainfall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Climate experts link this phenomenon to climate change, as warmer seas lead to more frequent, severe storms. The combination of heavy rain and the region's limited drainage capacity led to flash flooding, overwhelming local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predicting-floods-its-not-just-about-rainfall/">infrastructure</a>.</p>



<p>Rising ocean temperatures are largely driven by increased greenhouse gases that trap more heat in the atmosphere. Oceans absorb about 90% of this excess heat, leading to warmer waters, especially near the surface.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This warming disrupts marine ecosystems, contributing to coral bleaching and altering habitats for species like fish and marine mammals.</p>



<p>With the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">climate crisis</a> intensifying, experts warn that warmer ocean temperatures will heighten the risk of rapid, destructive rainfall events.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-deadliest-flood-in-europe-this-century-nbsp">Second-deadliest flood in Europe this century&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the disaster was the second-deadliest flood in Europe this century and that Spain was carrying out its largest deployment of army and security force personnel in peacetime. The country was sending 5,000 soldiers and 5,000 police officers to the eastern region of Valencia on Saturday.</p>



<p>Four days after the devastating floods, rescuers are still searching for bodies. Thousands of volunteers are helping to clean up the thick mud that covers streets, homes, and businesses in the hardest-hit towns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Prime Minister Sanchez responded to people who expressed they feel abandoned with no help or communication in the days following the tragic flooding.</p>



<p>“I am aware the response is not enough, there are problems and severe shortages… towns buried by mud, desperate people searching for their relatives.”</p>



<p>"For those who at this moment are still looking for their loved ones, the whole of Spain weeps with you."</p>



<p>According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/">ESA</a>, the Copernicus Emergency Rapid Mapping Service has been activated to provide satellite imagery that can support rescue and recovery efforts.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>:</strong> USGS, processed by ESA&nbsp;</p>



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Valencia floods: A tragedy fueled by extreme weather

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features a false-color radar depiction of central Ethiopia.</p>



<p>According to ESA, the photograph is a blend of multiple Sentinel-1 images from spring, summer and autumn 2023, which have been overlaid to create this single image.</p>



<p>“Radar images capture surface texture rather than reflected light so they are naturally black and white but here images from each season have been assigned a different color: red, green and blue respectively,” explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“When the images are combined, the different colors reveal variations that occurred in the different seasons.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rugged-terrain-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Rugged terrain of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>ESA noted that Ethiopia’s terrain is one of the most rugged in Africa. The landscape is primarily characterized by highlands and plateaus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the Roof of Africa, dominate this region and include some of the highest peaks in Africa, such as Ras Dashen. The terrain features steep escarpments, deep valleys, and numerous rivers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The central part of the country is also home to the Great Rift Valley, which runs through Ethiopia and includes a series of lakes and volcanic mountains. The region's varied topography contributes to its rich biodiversity and distinct climate zones.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lakes-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Lakes of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to ESA, water bodies appear dark in this image because flat water surfaces reflect the radar signal away from the satellite. “The various colors visible in some lakes are due either to the changing surface currents and sediments from rivers or to variations in water level.”</p>



<p>Lake Ziway is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-flamingos-at-risk-due-to-rising-lake-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> in the region. It is located about 160 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The lake is known for its rich bird diversity, including large populations of pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Lake Ziway also supports local fishing communities.</p>



<p>Lake Shala is the deepest lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley and is known for its volcanic origins. It has a maximum depth of 266 meters and is surrounded by hot springs and steep, rocky cliffs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Climate of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Central Ethiopia features a diverse climate, primarily influenced by its elevation and geographical location within the tropics.</p>



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



<p>Much of central Ethiopia consists of highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 3,000 meters above sea level. These highlands experience a temperate climate, with cooler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-in-africa-are-rising-above-levels-that-rhinoceros-can-tolerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> compared to the lowlands.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The average temperatures range from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher elevations, such as those found in the Ethiopian Highlands, can experience temperatures that are close to freezing at night.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainy-seasons">Rainy seasons</h3>



<p>Central Ethiopia has two main rainy seasons. The primary rainy season, known as the "Kiremt," occurs from June to September and brings the majority of the annual rainfall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The "Belg," or short rainy season, occurs from March to May. The rainfall during these periods supports agriculture, which is a key part of the region's economy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-season">Dry season</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-wet-forests-have-seen-an-alarming-rise-in-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dry season</a>, known as the "Bega," spans from October to February.&nbsp;During this time, the region experiences significantly less rainfall, and the weather tends to be sunny and dry. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Culture of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> of central Ethiopia is a dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. This culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a profound connection to the region's historical and spiritual roots.</p>



<p>The Amhara people have played a significant role in the cultural and political life of central Ethiopia. The Amhara are known for their rich heritage, which includes the Amharic language, a Semitic tongue that serves as one of the country's official languages.</p>



<p>Orthodox Christianity is a key aspect of central Ethiopian culture, particularly among the Amhara and other highland communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This part of East Africa is also known for its traditional music and dance, which reflect the region's historical depth and cultural diversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The cuisine of central Ethiopia is another significant cultural aspect, with injera (a spongy flatbread made from teff) being a staple food.&nbsp;Injera is typically served with a variety of stews (wats) and salads.</p>



<p>The communal eating experience, where meals are shared from a single large plate, emphasizes the importance of community and togetherness.</p>



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



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The vibrant seasons of central Ethiopia

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> features the Sombrero Galaxy, with its magnificent structure captured in stunning detail by the Hubble Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sombrero-galaxy-nbsp">Sombrero Galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy, also known as Messier 104, is one of the most intriguing and easily recognizable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in the night sky.</p>



<p>The galaxy is notable for its bright nucleus, large central bulge, and prominent dust lane that gives it a sombrero-like appearance when viewed from Earth. It is located in the constellation Virgo, about 29 million light-years away.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance">Appearance</h3>



<p>The most distinguishing feature is the dark dust lane that encircles the galaxy along its equator, resembling the rim of a sombrero hat. This dust lane is composed of interstellar dust and gas, where new stars are being born.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-type-and-structure">Galaxy type and structure</h3>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy is classified as an SA(s)a galaxy, indicating it is an unbarred spiral galaxy with a prominent nucleus. </p>



<p>However, its large bulge and dust lane also give it characteristics of an elliptical galaxy and a lenticular galaxy, making it a hybrid of sorts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-nucleus">Bright nucleus</h3>



<p>The galaxy has a very bright nucleus, which is thought to house a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black hole</a>. Observations suggest the black hole at its center is one of the most massive known, with an estimated mass of hundreds of millions of solar masses.</p>



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



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy spans about 50,000 light-years in diameter, making it about half the size of our Milky Way. Its halo is also populated with globular clusters, similar to the Milky Way, though the exact number is still a subject of research.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-and-discovery">Research and discovery</h3>



<p>Due to its unique features and relatively close proximity, the Sombrero Galaxy has been the focus of extensive research and has been studied across various wavelengths - from radio to X-ray. </p>



<p>These studies help astronomers gain insights into the processes of galaxy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formation</a> and evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-expanding-universe-model-nbsp">The expanding universe model&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The expanding universe model is a fundamental concept in cosmology that describes the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-claims-our-universe-is-27-billion-years-old-double-the-current-age-estimate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a> as continuously growing in scale over time. </p>



<p>This model is based on observations that galaxies are moving away from each other, with their separation increasing as time progresses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Sombrero Galaxy was one of the first galaxies to be identified as having a redshift, indicating it is moving away from us, which was an important piece of evidence supporting the expanding universe model. The key aspects of this model include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-s-law">Hubble's Law</h3>



<p>In 1929, Edwin Hubble discovered that galaxies are receding from each other at velocities proportional to their distances. </p>



<p>This relationship, known as Hubble's Law, provided the first observational evidence for the expanding universe. It suggests that the farther away a galaxy is, the faster it appears to be moving away from us. </p>



<p>This expansion is often described by the analogy of dots on an inflating balloon; as the balloon expands, the dots (representing galaxies) move away from each other.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-bang-theory">Big Bang Theory</h3>



<p>The expanding universe model is a cornerstone of the Big Bang theory, which posits that the universe began as a singular, extremely hot and dense point approximately 13.8 billion years ago. </p>



<p>The universe has been expanding and cooling ever since. This theory explains the creation of all space, time, matter, and energy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-microwave-background-radiation">Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation</h3>



<p>The discovery of cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation in 1965 provided strong evidence for the Big Bang theory and the expanding universe model. </p>



<p>The CMB is the afterglow radiation from the Big Bang, observed as a faint microwave signal pervasive throughout the universe. It is considered a snapshot of the infant universe, showing a time about 380,000 years after the Big Bang when the universe had cooled enough for atoms to form and light to travel freely.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accelerated-expansion">Accelerated Expansion</h3>



<p>Observations of distant supernovae in the late 20th century revealed that the universe's expansion is accelerating, not slowing down as previously assumed. </p>



<p>This acceleration is attributed to a mysterious force termed "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-does-not-exist-universe-27-billion-years-old-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark energy</a>," which constitutes about 68% of the total energy content of the universe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmological-principle">Cosmological Principle</h3>



<p>The expanding universe model is based on the cosmological principle, which states that on large scales, the universe is homogeneous (uniform in composition) and isotropic (appearing the same in all directions). This principle supports the observation that the expansion of the universe is uniform and not directed outward from a central point.</p>



<p>The model has profoundly impacted our understanding of cosmology, leading to further inquiries into the nature of dark matter, dark energy, and the ultimate fate of the universe.</p>



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



<p>"NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has trained its razor-sharp eye on one of the universe's most stately and photogenic galaxies, the Sombrero galaxy, Messier 104 (M104). The galaxy's hallmark is a brilliant white, bulbous core encircled by the thick dust lanes comprising the spiral structure of the galaxy," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"As seen from Earth, the galaxy is tilted nearly edge-on. We view it from just six degrees north of its equatorial plane. This brilliant galaxy was named the Sombrero because of its resemblance to the broad rim and high-topped Mexican hat."</p>



<p>According to ESA, at a relatively bright magnitude of +8, Messier 104 is just beyond the limit of naked-eye visibility and can be easily viewed through small telescopes. </p>



<p>"The Sombrero lies at the southern edge of the rich Virgo cluster of galaxies and is one of the most massive objects in that group, equivalent to 800 billion suns. The galaxy is 50,000 light-years across and is located 30 million light-years from Earth."</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA and The Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)</p>



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The Sombrero Galaxy hints at an expanding universe 

<p>Even though Mars is now a cold and dry world, it once hosted rivers, lakes, and possibly vast oceans. Robotic missions search for traces of this past. Some discoveries take years, while others, like unexpected mineral clues, appear suddenly.</p>



<p>A rover traversing the Martian surface may seem routine, but when that rover is NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-2020-perseverance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseverance</a> and it encounters something extraordinary, the discovery sends ripples through the scientific community.</p>



<p>Roger Wiens, professor of earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences at <a href="https://www.purdue.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University</a>, witnessed one of these moments when Perseverance’s laser struck some pale rocks that turned out to be anything but ordinary.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chance-encounter-with-a-good-rock">Chance encounter with a good rock</h2>



<p>The rocks in question looked different from the rest. They were paler, and stood out against the usual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/detecting-life-on-mars-a-breakthrough-in-space-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian landscape</a>.</p>



<p>That alone made them interesting, but what truly surprised Wiens and his team was their composition. These rocks contained an unusually high amount of aluminum, linked with the mineral kaolinite.</p>



<p>This, in itself, would have been a noteworthy discovery. But kaolinite is no ordinary mineral. On Earth, it forms only under very specific conditions - ones that involve warmth, moisture, and long-term exposure to water.</p>



<p>Finding it on Mars meant that, at some point in its history, the planet must have been wetter, and possibly even significantly warmer than previously believed.</p>



<p>“On Earth, these minerals form where there is intense rainfall and a warm climate or in hydrothermal systems such as hot springs. Both environments are ideal conditions for life as we know it,” Wiens said.</p>



<p>If the conditions that created these minerals were present on Mars for an extended period, it raises questions about whether the planet once supported environments suitable for life. </p>



<p>The discovery challenges long-standing ideas about Mars's climate history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-rover-detects-minerals">Mars rover detects minerals</h2>



<p>Wiens’s involvement in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-mars-once-host-life-we-finally-know-where-to-look/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars exploration</a> runs deep. He has spent decades working with rovers and played a crucial role in designing SuperCam, the powerful instrument mounted atop Perseverance. </p>



<p>Resembling a head and neck, this device allows the rover to analyze the Martian surface from a distance.</p>



<p>SuperCam’s tools allow scientists to examine the composition of Martian rocks without requiring the rover to physically touch them. </p>



<p>On the first day Perseverance landed, its cameras spotted small, pale pebbles scattered across the landscape. At the time, researchers had other priorities and paid them little attention.</p>



<p>Later, as the rover continued exploring, it came across larger rocks with the same coloration. These rocks were not attached to the underlying bedrock but instead lay loose on the surface. </p>



<p>Known as “float rocks,” they had been moved from their original location, carried by unknown forces across the Martian terrain. That alone made them intriguing. What came next changed everything.</p>



<p>“These rocks are very different from anything we’ve seen on Mars before,” Wiens said. “They’re enigmas.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-mars-minerals">Mysterious Mars minerals</h2>



<p>Wiens’s research team, including Candice Bedford and Clement Royer, took a closer look at these rocks. The deeper they analyzed, the more astonishing the results became.</p>



<p>More than 4,000 of these pale stones were scattered across the surface, all showing similar characteristics. The presence of kaolinite stood out, but that wasn’t the only surprising element.</p>



<p>Alongside kaolinite, the rocks also contained traces of spinel, most likely aluminum spinel. This mineral typically forms in either igneous or metamorphic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wave-ripples-discovered-mars-surface-indicate-liquid-water-present-4-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>. </p>



<p>That posed an important question: Did the spinel form first, later interacting with kaolinite, or did the kaolinite somehow develop around the spinel? The answer remains unclear.</p>



<p>On Earth, kaolinite is often found in locations where water has flowed for ages, dissolving away all but the most resilient materials. This means the Martian rocks could be remnants of an ancient, long-lived watery environment. </p>



<p>However, their current hardness differs from Earth’s kaolinite, suggesting additional geological processes have altered them over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-minerals-hold-evidence-of-water">Mars minerals hold evidence of water</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-mars-atmosphere-may-improve-weather-predictions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars’s history</a> is written in its rocks, and each discovery adds another layer to the story. </p>



<p>Water has always been at the heart of that story, raising fundamental questions about how much once existed, how long it lasted, and where it eventually disappeared.</p>



<p>“The big questions about Mars are about water,” Wiens said. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mars_Perseverance-rover_Ouzinkie-rock_kaolinite-mineral-discovery_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/mars_Perseverance-rover_Ouzinkie-rock_kaolinite-mineral-discovery_NASA_1s.webp" alt="SuperCam RMI color images showing various types of textures. A Image of Ouzinkie showing the shiny luster (scam02691); B image of Chignik showing the abundant dark, dull lustered grains within a pale, light-grey matrix (scam01681); C image of Rainbow Curve highlighting a discontinuous and anastomosing tendency of the layered targets (scam01777); D image of Dolgoi Island with yellow arrows pointing to dark green candidate spinel grains ( ~ 1 mm diameter) (scam01657); E image of Unga Island highlighting vitreous, spatter-like texture intermingled with large pits up to 4 cm in diameter (scam01676); F image of Barrier Range showing the smooth, aphanitic/very fine-grained nature of the smooth targets that commonly contains small, spherical pits sometimes filled with a dark coating material (scam02554). Credit: NASA/Purdue/Nature" class="wp-image-1962411"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>SuperCam RMI color images showing various types of textures. A Image of Ouzinkie showing the shiny luster (scam02691); B image of Chignik showing the abundant dark, dull lustered grains within a pale, light-grey matrix (scam01681); C image of Rainbow Curve highlighting a discontinuous and anastomosing tendency of the layered targets (scam01777); D image of Dolgoi Island with yellow arrows pointing to dark green candidate spinel grains ( ~ 1 mm diameter) (scam01657); E image of Unga Island highlighting vitreous, spatter-like texture intermingled with large pits up to 4 cm in diameter (scam01676); F image of Barrier Range showing the smooth, aphanitic/very fine-grained nature of the smooth targets that commonly contains small, spherical pits sometimes filled with a dark coating material (scam02554). Credit: NASA/Purdue/Nature</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>“How much water was there? How long was there water? Given how cold and dry Mars is now, where did all that water go? As a mineral, kaolinite has a lot of water bound up in its structure. It’s possible that a lot of the water is still there, on Mars, bound up in the minerals.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next">What happens next?</h2>



<p>Even though the research team has not yet found these rocks in their original bedrock location, orbital satellite data confirms that Jezero Crater’s rim contains kaolinite-rich formations. </p>



<p>Bedford, who co-led the study, believes that tracking the source of these float rocks could provide answers.</p>



<p>“Although we have not seen these rocks ‘in place’ in bedrock with the rover, and we’re not sure where these float rocks came from, from orbiting satellites we know that there are kaolinite-rich rocks in Jezero crater’s rim,” Bedford said. </p>



<p>“Investigating these rocks in place will help us test our hypotheses on how the rocks formed, how they relate to the ancient Martian environment and the habitability of the planet in the past. We are keeping our eyes wide open, looking for the source of these rocks now that Perseverance is exploring the crater rim.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-signs-of-life">Searching for signs of life</h2>



<p>Mars’ transformation from a planet with liquid water to the frozen desert we see today remains one of the biggest scientific mysteries.</p>



<p>The discovery of these minerals strengthens the possibility that ancient Mars was not just habitable but sustained environments capable of supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-collects-26th-rock-sample-on-mars-plans-to-bring-them-all-to-earth-for-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.</p>



<p>Since life as we know it depends on water, uncovering the history of water on Mars is key to understanding whether life ever had a foothold there.</p>



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



<p>This work is the result of a collaboration involving scientists from around the world. Los Alamos National Laboratory (<a href="https://www.lanl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LANL</a>) and the French Institut de Recherche en Astrophysique et Planétologie (<a href="https://www.irap.omp.eu/en/homepage-en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IRAP</a>), supported by <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (<a href="https://cnes.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNES</a>) in France.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01837-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a></em>.</p>



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New Mars discovery is "different from anything ever seen before"

Even though Mars is now a cold and dry world,...

Makassar,Strait,Highlighted,On,A,Satellite,Image,Map

<p>Early explorers wondered why two neighboring islands, separated by something called the "Wallace Line," had such different wildlife. They saw tigers and elephants on one side, while marsupials lived just a short boat ride away.</p>



<p>Dr. Penny Van Oosterzee, an ecological researcher at <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a>, has studied these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutions-many-solutions-nature-finds-multiple-paths-to-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> for years. She sees them as a reminder of how physical barriers can split habitats even when they sit close by.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wallace-line-and-species-separation">Wallace Line and species separation</h2>



<p>The Wallace Line runs through Southeast Asia, marking where Asian species give way to Australian species. </p>



<p>It crosses narrow waters between Borneo and Sulawesi, and between Bali and Lombok, which lie only about 15 miles apart.</p>



<p>Even though it is not an official border, it acts like one for many animals. Flocks of Asian birds thrive on one side, but groups of Australian cockatoos stay on the other.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-invisible-fence">An invisible fence </h2>



<p>A deep ocean trench, known as the Makassar Strait, is key to this puzzle. During past ice ages, many islands were connected by land bridges when sea levels dropped.</p>



<p>Yet that submerged gap never vanished here, so animals could not simply wander across. Highly specialized species remained where they could find food, avoid predators, and keep up their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/embryo-development-shows-how-evolution-had-many-options-to-choose-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival strategies</a>.</p>



<p>Even birds, which can fly, tend to stay within their familiar habitats because of differences in climate and food availability. The Wallace Line, in many ways, acts like an invisible fence shaped by nature’s own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolving-evolution-how-life-learns-to-adapt-better/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">design</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-makassar-strait-the-basics">Understanding the Makassar Strait - the basics</h2>



<p>The Makassar Strait is a narrow stretch of water that runs between the islands of Borneo and Sulawesi in Indonesia. </p>



<p>It connects the Celebes Sea in the north to the Java Sea in the south, making it a key passage for ships traveling between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. </p>



<p>The strait isn’t just a busy maritime route - it’s also home to some incredible marine life. </p>



<p>Strong ocean currents flow through, bringing nutrient-rich waters that support vibrant coral reefs, fish, and even deep-sea creatures. </p>



<p>It’s a hotspot for divers and researchers alike, offering a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich underwater biodiversity.</p>



<p>The region is also a key focus for climate change research, as rising sea levels and shifting currents affect both marine ecosystems and coastal communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wallace-line-shaped-evolution">The Wallace Line shaped evolution</h2>



<p>This unique divide helped shape some early ideas about how species change over time. It sparked thoughts on biogeography, the study of how plants and animals are distributed across the planet.</p>



<p>When Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently <a href="https://evolution.berkeley.edu/the-history-of-evolutionary-thought/1800s/natural-selection-charles-darwin-alfred-russel-wallace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wrote</a> about natural selection in the mid-1800s, they each pointed to real-world examples of animals adapting to local conditions. </p>



<p>The stark difference between these islands stood out to Wallace.</p>



<p>His observations supported the idea that species do not appear randomly but evolve based on their environment. </p>



<p>The Wallace Line became one of the strongest cases for how geographic barriers can drive the formation of new species.</p>



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



<p>There are debates over the geographic accuracy of the line. Researchers have <a href="https://academic.oup.com/biolinnean/article/130/1/225/5802023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">called</a> for the boundary line to be redrawn.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We suggest that Wallace’s Line be redrawn such that the landmass is placed on the Australasian side of this fundamental biogeographical boundary,” wrote Jason Ali and colleagues from the University of Hong Kong.</p>



<p>Shifting a line on a map may seem simple, but it shows how active science can be. As more research appears, definitions can move, and old ideas can adapt.</p>



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



<p>The region that includes Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the surrounding Pacific is known as Australasia. </p>



<p>It’s a place where you can find everything from vast deserts and lush rainforests to snowy mountains and stunning coral reefs. </p>



<p>Australia dominates the region with its massive landmass, unique wildlife like kangaroos and koalas, and world-famous landmarks like the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru. </p>



<p>Meanwhile, New Zealand brings its own magic with breathtaking fjords, rolling green hills, and a deep-rooted Māori culture. </p>



<p>The islands of Australasia, including Papua New Guinea and parts of Indonesia, add even more diversity with rich indigenous traditions and some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-wallace-line-and-human-history">The Wallace Line and human history</h2>



<p>The idea of a boundary extends to humans and not only wildlife. The racial and political effects of the line have been studied at length.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The difference between these two people had already been noticed by early European travelers, together with the difference in flora and fauna,” noted Fenneke Sysling from the <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utrecht</a> in The Netherlands.</p>



<p>Many decades ago, claims emerged that certain groups east of the line shared traits with Papuans, while those west of the line fit the Malay category. </p>



<p>Debates around these claims have carried into modern times, highlighting how complex human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-evolution-not-random-gene-families-pangenome-influence-called-revolutionary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diversity</a> can be.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geographic-borders-and-human-evolution">Geographic borders and human evolution</h2>



<p>Various projects track bird populations, insects, and even marsupials (kangaroo) to see how borders and evolution link together. </p>



<p>Shallow seas no longer block human travel, yet animals remain bound by their own quirks.</p>



<p>Scientists ask whether climate changes or habitat loss might shift wildlife distributions in the future. Updates on these studies add another layer of intrigue to a line first drawn in the 19th century.</p>



<p>The Wallace Line demonstrates how subtle geographic forces can create stark contrasts in living things. It also reminds us that physical distance is not always the main factor - evolutionary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">history</a> and chance play major roles.</p>



<p>With all of the debates and shifting perspectives, one thing is clear: the planet holds more surprises than any single line can capture.</p>



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



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

Earth has a natural border line that no species will cross - what is the Wallace Line?

Early explorers wondered why two neighboring islands, separated by something...

<p>We all know someone who seems to be aging more slowly than others. They look younger, move with more energy, and seem healthier despite having the same chronological age as their peers. What makes them different?</p>



<p>Scientists at <a href="https://www.osaka-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka University</a> in Japan believe they may have found a way to measure this difference more accurately.</p>



<p>Instead of relying solely on chronological age, their new method assesses biological age - the true measure of how well the body has aged.</p>



<p>Using artificial intelligence (AI) and steroid metabolism <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathways</a>, the model provides a deeper look into aging at a biochemical level.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormones-as-indicators-of-aging">Hormones as indicators of aging</h2>



<p>Aging is influenced by a complex mix of genetics, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>, and environmental factors. Traditional methods for estimating biological age rely on broad biomarkers such as DNA methylation or protein levels. </p>



<p>However, these approaches often miss the intricate hormonal interactions that keep the body in balance.</p>



<p>“Our bodies rely on hormones to maintain homeostasis, so we thought, why not use these as key indicators of aging?” said Dr. Qiuyi Wang, co-first author of the study.</p>



<p>To explore this, the researchers focused on steroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-ai-model-for-biological-age">New AI model for biological age</h2>



<p>The team developed a deep neural network (DNN) model that incorporates steroid metabolism <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organ-aging-can-predict-diseases-decades-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathways</a>. This AI-driven system is the first to examine how steroid hormones interact rather than just their individual levels.</p>



<p>“Our approach reduces the noise caused by individual steroid level differences and allows the model to focus on meaningful patterns,” explains Dr. Zi Wang, co-first author of this work.</p>



<p>The model was trained using blood samples from hundreds of individuals. The findings suggest that biological age differences increase as people grow older, much like a river widening as it flows downstream.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-health-assessment">Precise health assessment</h2>



<p>The researchers’ method requires only five drops of blood. From this sample, they analyze 22 key steroids and their interactions to estimate biological age with greater precision. </p>



<p>This advancement in technology opens doors for the early detection of age-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-and-aging-new-study-reveals-a-surprising-connection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> risks and personalized interventions to slow down aging.</p>



<p>One of the most significant discoveries in the study relates to cortisol, a hormone linked to stress. The team found that when cortisol levels doubled, biological age increased by approximately 1.5 times.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-stress-on-biological-aging">Impact of stress on biological aging</h2>



<p>“Stress is often discussed in general terms, but our findings provide concrete evidence that it has a measurable impact on biological aging,” said Professor Toshifumi Takao, a corresponding author and an expert in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.</p>



<p>This discovery reinforces the importance of stress management in maintaining long-term health. Chronic stress may speed up aging at a biochemical level, making it essential to prioritize mental well-being along with physical health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-applications-and-potential">Future applications and potential</h2>



<p>Scientists believe their AI-powered biological age model could transform how people understand and manage their health. Instead of relying on general guidelines, this tool might allow doctors to give advice tailored to each person’s body and aging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-the-cellular-mortality-timer-that-dictates-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process</a>. </p>



<p>By analyzing hormone interactions, the model could help detect diseases before symptoms appear, making early treatment possible. </p>



<p>The technology could also assist in designing wellness programs that fit an individual’s needs, helping people choose the best diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes to slow down aging.</p>



<p>In the future, this technology might make it easier to track aging speed and adjust health strategies accordingly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-on-biological-aging">Expanding research on biological aging</h2>



<p>While this study represents a major step forward, the researchers acknowledge that biological aging is complex. </p>



<p>“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Wang. “By expanding our dataset and incorporating additional biological markers, we hope to refine the model further and unlock deeper insights into the mechanisms of aging.”</p>



<p>Advancements in AI and biomedical research continue to bring us closer to understanding the process of aging at a deeper level. The ability to assess how quickly a person is aging with a simple blood test could completely transform preventive healthcare in the years to come.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt2624" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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



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

AI-powered blood test can predict your true biological age

We all know someone who seems to be aging more...

<p>Skin cancer stands as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States, bringing about millions of non-melanoma cases and tens of thousands of melanomas yearly.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, treating skin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/golfers-have-more-than-double-the-risk-of-skin-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> costs the nation roughly $8.9 billion annually. Individuals with fair skin, a history of sun exposure or tanning bed use, and a genetic predisposition bear higher risks. </p>



<p>Yet, barriers like insufficient public awareness, cultural ideals favoring tanned skin, and limited access to sun protection tools underscore the ongoing challenges in prevention.</p>



<p>A new study led by researchers at <a href="https://www.fau.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Atlantic University</a> (FAU) sheds light on how sunburn patterns and protective habits vary with different sociodemographic backgrounds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the <a href="https://www.aad.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Academy of Dermatology</a>, experiencing over five blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 increases melanoma risk by 80 percent and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk by 68 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perceived-risk-of-skin-cancer-nbsp">Perceived risk of skin cancer&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research drew from the U.S. National Cancer Institute’s 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey 6 (HINTS 6), focusing on participants’ confidence in their own health, perceived risk of cancer, and anxiety about potential diagnoses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, respondents noted whether they had experienced sunburn within the last year. The study examined how age, gender, occupation, marital status, education, Hispanic origin, race, and income shaped these responses, recognizing each of these factors could influence skin cancer risk.</p>



<p>Among 6,252 participants surveyed, 44% felt “very confident” they could care for their health, while 27.3% said they were “completely confident.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although few reported being “extremely worried” about skin cancer (9.1%), a quarter felt moderately concerned. On sunburns, the study found 67.6% reported none in the past year and 30.3% said they had between one and five.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition, 6.4% acknowledged drinking alcohol while already sunburned - something the authors associated with heightened exposure and additional sunburns. Activities such as drinking, working outdoors, or swimming commonly coincided with sunburn incidents.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-trends-in-sunburn-prevalence">Surprising trends in sunburn prevalence</h2>



<p>Using multinomial regression, the team found multiple factors tied strongly to sunburn likelihood. Adults over 40 emerged with lower sunburn risks, and women also tended to have fewer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>People who were disabled, unemployed, or employed in multiple jobs saw fewer sunburns, while those who were married or partnered experienced more. In contrast, being divorced or single corresponded with fewer sunburns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Also, higher education and being Hispanic, Black, Asian, or of mixed race correlated with fewer incidents. Income was found to be a striking predictor: higher income individuals had significantly higher risks of sunburns, with the highest income group being over four times more likely to report sunburns.</p>



<p>“Social determinants such as race/ethnicity, sex, income and employment status are closely linked to sunburn and skin cancer risk,” said Lea Sacca, senior author and an assistant professor in the Department of Population Health and Social Medicine at FAU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“While Hispanics and Black Americans generally report lower rates of sunburn, Hispanics often perceive greater benefits of UV exposure, which increases their risk. Factors such as sex, education, and income also influence <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-acid-in-our-skin-could-be-a-natural-sunscreen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunscreen</a> use, with lower use observed among Black Americans and Hispanic Americans.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“However, within these groups, women with higher education and income are more likely to use sunscreen. Interestingly, higher income is associated with more frequent sunburns.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-basics-of-skin-cancer">The basics of skin cancer</h2>



<p>There are three primary types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melanoma-has-been-replaced-as-the-deadliest-form-of-skin-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">melanoma</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent but typically the least severe, emerging as pearly bumps on sun-exposed areas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Squamous cell carcinoma often takes the form of red, scaly patches or open sores and can spread if untreated.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Melanoma, the most dangerous type, can appear as new or changing moles and spreads quickly if not caught early.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-sociodemographics-matter">Why sociodemographics matter</h2>



<p>“Understanding perceptions of skin cancer risk and the prevalence of protective behaviors is vital to reducing the likelihood of developing skin cancer, particularly among vulnerable groups,” said first author Madison Etzel, a second-year medical student at FAU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our study underscores the importance of raising awareness about skin cancer susceptibility as we found that all sociodemographic factors were significantly linked to the number of reported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/main-cause-of-sunburn-finally-identified-is-rna-damage-not-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunburns</a> in the past year.”</p>



<p>“Future research should explore how additional social determinants of health influence sunburn incidence and prevention behaviors. A deeper understanding of these factors is critical to addressing the widespread harms of skin cancer in U.S. adults.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-skin-cancer">Preventing skin cancer</h2>



<p>According to health authorities like the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Cancer Society</a>, several effective strategies can prevent skin cancer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Key recommendations include regularly applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when outdoors, avoiding peak UV radiation times (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wearing protective clothing (such as long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses), and steering clear of tanning beds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Self-exams and professional check-ups can help detect any unusual skin changes early on, improving treatment outcomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-awareness-and-targeted-interventions-nbsp">Growing awareness and targeted interventions<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The study’s findings show that comprehending public attitudes and behaviors - especially among high-risk populations - is essential to driving down skin cancer prevalence.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By considering how age, race, income, and education intersect with sun exposure, health officials and policymakers can better hone campaigns to encourage healthy habits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Ultimately, growing awareness and targeted interventions may lead to fewer sunburns, lower healthcare costs, and improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-alone-in-america-an-escalating-public-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health</a> across the U.S.</p>



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



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

Skin cancer risk: The hidden factors beyond sunburn

Skin cancer stands as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in...

<p>A team of chemists has recently introduced a non-toxic, eco-friendly, solvent-free approach to recycling plastic by using moisture found in ambient air.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In a study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/D4GC05916F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Green Chemistry</em></a>, the experts describe how a low-cost catalyst splits apart the bonds in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) - the most common polyester plastic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After that, the fragmented <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> is exposed to ordinary air, converting it into monomers that could be reconstituted into new PET products or higher-value materials. The team’s findings raise the potential for a more cost-effective, sustainable path toward creating a circular economy for plastics.</p>



<p>Yosi Kratish is a research assistant professor of chemistry in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.</p>



<p>“The U.S. is the number one plastic polluter per capita, and we only recycle 5% of those plastics. There is a dire need for better technologies that can process different types of plastic waste,” said Kratish.</p>



<p>“Most of the technologies that we have today melt down plastic bottles and downcycle them into lower-quality products.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-moisture-to-recycle-plastic">Using moisture to recycle plastic</h2>



<p>According to Kratish, what is particularly exciting about the research is that the team harnessed moisture from air to break down the plastics, achieving an exceptionally clean and selective process.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“By recovering the monomers, which are the basic building blocks of PET, we can recycle or even upcycle them into more valuable materials.”</p>



<p>Naveen Malik, the paper’s first author, noted that the study offers a sustainable and efficient solution to one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges: plastic waste.</p>



<p>“Unlike traditional recycling methods, which often produce harmful byproducts like waste salts and require significant energy or chemical inputs, our approach uses a solvent-free process that relies on trace moisture from ambient air. This makes it not only environmentally friendly but also highly practical for real-world applications,” said Malik.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Kratish co-led the study with Tobin J. Marks, a longtime chemistry professor at Weinberg and a professor of materials science and engineering at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-need-for-plastic-solutions">Critical need for plastic solutions</h2>



<p>PET plastics, commonly used in items such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-use-in-food-packaging-could-be-drastically-reduced/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food packaging</a> and beverage bottles, make up approximately 12% of all plastics globally.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their persistence in the environment underscores a major dilemma: PET is resistant to decomposition and therefore liable to end up in landfills, fragment into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-brain-alarming-new-details-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> or nanoplastics that seep into water sources, or accumulate in the natural environment.</p>



<p>Scientists worldwide are seeking new approaches to manage or recycle plastic, but existing processes often employ harsh conditions - extreme temperatures, high energy demands, strong solvents - that generate toxic byproducts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The required catalysts can also be expensive or hazardous, compounding waste problems. Furthermore, once the recycling reaction finishes, researchers face a tough job of extracting useful materials from the leftover solvents, adding cost and complexity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solvent-free-method-for-recycling-nbsp">Solvent-free method for recycling&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In prior work, Marks’ group at Northwestern pioneered catalytic methods that operate without solvents. This new paper builds on that achievement, once again using a solvent-free reaction approach.</p>



<p>“Using solvents has many disadvantages,” Kratish said. “They can be expensive, and you have to heat them up to high temperatures. Then, after the reaction, you are left with a soup of materials that you have to sort to recover the monomers.”</p>



<p>“Instead of using solvents, we used water vapor from air. It’s a much more elegant way to tackle plastic recycling issues.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simple-chemistry-to-recycle-plastic">Simple chemistry to recycle plastic </h2>



<p>To test this new process, the team combined PET with a low-cost, non-toxic molybdenum catalyst plus activated carbon, then heated the mixture. Through this step, the large molecules of PET began to break down.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Next, the scientists introduced the fragmented plastic to ambient air, which contains minimal levels of water vapor, triggering a conversion of plastic remnants into monomers known as terephthalic acid (TPA) - the valuable precursor for making new polyesters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The process yielded just one byproduct, acetaldehyde, which is considered relatively straightforward to remove in industrial contexts.</p>



<p>“Air contains a significant amount of moisture, making it a readily available and sustainable resource for chemical reactions,” Malik noted.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“On average, even in relatively dry conditions, the atmosphere holds about 10,000 to 15,000 cubic kilometers of water. Leveraging air moisture allows us to eliminate bulk solvents, reduce energy input, and avoid the use of aggressive chemicals, making the process cleaner and more environmentally friendly.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tasting-the-recycling-technology">Tasting the recycling technology </h2>



<p>In preliminary trials, 94% of the TPA was recovered in merely four hours, demonstrating both speed and efficiency. The catalyst was shown to be robust and reusable, making it a practical choice for large-scale applications.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because the technique selectively breaks down only polyester plastics, other types of plastic or non-plastic contaminants in a mixed batch are effectively bypassed.</p>



<p>When tested on actual plastic bottles, shirts, and mixed plastic waste, the process functioned similarly well, even eliminating dyes so that the recovered TPA turned out colorless.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scaling-up-the-new-method">Scaling up the new method </h2>



<p>The scientists’ next move involves scaling up the method to meet industrial demand and handle bigger loads of discarded plastic. </p>



<p>By optimizing factors such as reaction time, catalyst concentration, and temperature, they hope to create an economical solution for converting waste plastics into building blocks that can then be turned into new products.</p>



<p>“Our technology has the potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution, lower the environmental footprint of plastics and contribute to a circular economy where materials are reused rather than discarded," said Malik. </p>



<p>"It’s a tangible step toward a cleaner, greener future, and it demonstrates how innovative chemistry can address global challenges in a way that aligns with nature."</p>



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



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How scientists are using air to recycle plastic

A team of chemists has recently introduced a non-toxic, eco-friendly,...

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

Northeast Somalia: A landscape shaped by wind and water

News coming your way