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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA



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Planetary nebula with ethereal wings captured by Hubble

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA/TGO/CaSSIS



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Metallic Mars: The diverse colors of the Red Planet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image Credit: ESA/Hubble &amp; NASA



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Violent clash of the Antennae Galaxies  

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features NGC 5335 - a barred spiral galaxy located in the constellation Virgo. 



The photo was captured by the Hubble Space Telescope. According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/04/Barred_Spiral_Galaxy_NGC_5335" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>, thousands of distant galaxies are speckled throughout the image in a variety of colors.&nbsp;



Hubble is revealing how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-galaxies-discovery-would-upend-current-understanding-of-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> form, grow, and evolve over cosmic time by capturing detailed images of galaxies at various stages of development, from the nearby universe to billions of light-years away. 



Hubble images have shown us that galaxies collide and merge, that star formation varies across different types of galaxies, and that supermassive black holes often lie at their centers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-ngc-5335">Studying NGC 5335</h2>



The galaxy NGC 5335 lies approximately 160 million light-years from Earth. It is classified as an SB(s)bc type galaxy, indicating a well-defined bar structure across its center with less distinct spiral arms. The galaxy was discovered by astronomer William Herschel on May 13, 1793. 



Like many galaxies of its type, NGC 5335 features active <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-formation-reignited-in-the-galaxy-leo-p-after-billions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>, especially in its spiral arms, where interstellar gas and dust provide the raw material for new stars. 



Observations in different wavelengths, including infrared and ultraviolet, help astronomers study its stellar population and the dynamics of its central bar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-s-view-of-the-spiral-galaxy-nbsp">Hubble’s view of the spiral galaxy&nbsp;</h2>



“NGC 5335 is categorized as a flocculent spiral galaxy with patchy streamers of star formation across its disk. There is a striking lack of well-defined spiral arms that are commonly found among galaxies, including our Milky Way,” noted ESA.



“A notable bar structure slices across the center of the galaxy. The bar channels gas inwards toward the galactic center, fueling star formation.”&nbsp;



“Such bars are dynamic in galaxies and may come and go over two-billion-year intervals. They appear in about 30 percent of observed galaxies, including our Milky Way.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galactic-bar-in-the-milky-way-nbsp">Galactic bar in the Milky Way&nbsp;</h2>



The bar in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-found-something-strange-at-core-of-milky-way-galaxy-webb-meerkat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> is a vast, elongated structure composed mostly of stars, stretching across the galaxy’s central region. It is a key feature of our galaxy’s architecture, spanning about 27,000 light-years and oriented at an angle relative to the galaxy’s spiral arms.&nbsp;



Astronomers believe it plays a crucial role in the dynamics and evolution of the Milky Way by funneling gas inward toward the galactic center, which can feed star formation and fuel the supermassive black hole at the core.&nbsp;



The bar is thought to have formed from instabilities in the galactic disk and continues to influence the motion of stars and the overall gravitational balance of the galaxy.&nbsp;



Observations in infrared and radio wavelengths, which can pierce through the dust in the galactic plane, have helped scientists map the bar’s size, shape, and orientation.



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



Virgo is one of the most prominent and well-known constellations in the night sky, both astronomically and mythologically. It is the second-largest constellation by area and lies along the zodiac, making it one of the twelve constellations through which the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun</a> appears to move during the year. 



Virgo is most visible in the evening sky in the Northern Hemisphere during spring, particularly in April and May. Its name means “virgin” in Latin.



Virgo is traditionally associated with various fertility and agriculture goddesses across different cultures, including the Greek goddess Demeter and her daughter Persephone, as well as the Roman goddess Ceres. 



In some myths, Virgo represents Astraea, the virgin goddess of justice who fled to the heavens during the corruption of mankind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronomical-significance-of-virgo">Astronomical significance of Virgo</h2>



Astronomically, Virgo is situated between Leo to the west and Libra to the east. One of its most notable stars is Spica, the brightest star in Virgo and one of the brightest in the night sky.&nbsp;



Spica is a blue-white giant, located approximately 250 light-years from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/was-early-earth-a-purple-planet-scientists-say-its-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>. It has been important for navigation and agriculture for centuries, marking planting and harvest times in ancient calendars.



Virgo is also of great interest to astronomers because it hosts the Virgo Cluster, a massive cluster of galaxies about 65 million light-years away.&nbsp;



This cluster contains more than 1,000 galaxies, and it's part of the larger Virgo Supercluster, which also includes our own Local Group of galaxies. This makes Virgo a key area for studying large-scale structures in the universe.



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Hubble spotlights galaxies in the constellation Virgo

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the galaxy ESO 300-16, which is located 28.7 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Eridanus. 



The galaxy is part of the ESO (European Southern Observatory) catalog, which includes a vast collection of galaxies observed in the southern hemisphere.



ESO 300-16 is notable for its chaotic structure, lacking the well-defined <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/hubble-captures-a-collection-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiral arms</a> or elliptical shape seen in many other galaxies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ghostly-assemblage-of-stars">Ghostly assemblage of stars</h2>



According to <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>, ESO 300-16 is a ghostly assemblage of stars which resembles a sparkling cloud.&nbsp;



"A rogue’s gallery of distant galaxies and foreground stars complete this astronomical portrait, which was captured by the Advanced Camera for Surveys," said ESA.



"This observation is one of a series which aims to get to know our galactic neighbors; around three quarters of the known galaxies suspected to lie within 10 megaparsecs of Earth have been observed by Hubble in enough detail to resolve their brightest stars and establish the distances to these galaxies."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-irregular-galaxy-structure">Irregular galaxy structure </h2>



ESO 300-16 lies at a relatively close distance to Earth compared to many other extragalactic objects, making it an interesting target for studies on galaxy formation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>. 



The galaxy's irregular structure suggests that it may have undergone past interactions with other galaxies or is in a stage of dynamic evolution.



One of the most striking features of ESO 300-16 is its wispy, diffuse appearance, with scattered patches of bright star-forming regions embedded within a fainter background. This indicates ongoing star formation, which is a common characteristic of irregular galaxies. 



Unlike large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiral galaxies</a>, where star formation is often concentrated in well-organized arms, ESO 300-16's active regions are more randomly distributed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-raw-material-for-star-formation">Raw material for star formation</h2>



Due to its irregular nature, the galaxy does not have a well-defined nucleus. Instead, it appears as a loose collection of stars, gas, and dust, which astronomers can study to understand the processes shaping such galaxies. 



Irregular galaxies like ESO 300-16 are often rich in gas and dust, providing the raw material for new stars to form. 



Observations in different wavelengths, such as infrared and ultraviolet, can help reveal the presence of young, hot stars and cooler dust clouds that might be sites of future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-formation-reignited-in-the-galaxy-leo-p-after-billions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-evolution-of-galaxies">Studying the evolution of galaxies </h2>



Hubble observations of ESO 300-16 provide insight into the structure and stellar populations of the galaxy, helping astronomers piece together its history and evolutionary path. 



The study of galaxies like ESO 300-16 contributes to our broader understanding of how galaxies form and evolve, especially those that do not fit into the traditional classifications of spirals and ellipticals.



Because irregular galaxies are often shaped by gravitational interactions or past mergers, ESO 300-16 may have had a turbulent past. 



It could have once been part of a larger system before being disrupted, or it might have formed in an environment where gravitational influences from nearby galaxies prevented it from developing a more regular shape. 



Studying its motion and the distribution of its stars can provide clues about any past interactions it may have experienced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-glimpse-into-the-early-universe">A glimpse into the early universe </h2>



ESO 300-16 also provides a glimpse into what some galaxies in the early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universe-is-expanding-faster-than-science-can-explain-hubble-tension-physics-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a> might have looked like. 



Many early galaxies were irregular in shape before evolving into more structured forms over time. As a result, studying nearby irregular galaxies like ESO 300-16 can offer valuable analogs for understanding galaxy formation in the distant past.



Although ESO 300-16 is not one of the most famous galaxies, it remains an important object for astronomers studying irregular galaxies, star formation, and the role of interactions in shaping galactic structures. 



Image Credit: ESA



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Ghostly galaxy in the constellation Eridanus

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features a portion of the Rosetta Nebula, captured by the Hubble Space Telescope.



The Rosetta Nebula is a vast cloud of gas and dust located in the constellation Monoceros, also known as the Unicorn. Shaped like a blooming rose in deep space, it lies about 5,200 light-years from Earth and spans roughly 100 light-years in diameter.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-image-of-the-rosetta-nebula-nbsp">Image of the Rosetta Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/35-years-of-hubble-the-telescope-that-changed-our-view-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble</a> zooms into a small portion of the nebula that is only four light-years across (the approximate distance between our Sun and the neighboring Alpha Centauri star system),” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.



“Dark clouds of hydrogen gas laced with dust are silhouetted across the image. The clouds are being eroded and shaped by the seething radiation from the cluster of larger stars in the center of the nebula.”&nbsp;



“An embedded star seen at the tip of a dark cloud in the upper right portion of the image is launching jets of plasma that are crashing into the cold cloud around it. The resulting shock wave is causing a red glow. The colors come from the presence of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-appearance-of-rosetta">Distinct appearance of Rosetta</h2>



Stellar winds and ultraviolet light are gradually carving out a cavity in the nebula’s center while simultaneously triggering new waves of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fluffy-molecular-clouds-may-change-our-understanding-of-star-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> along its dense edges.&nbsp;



The Rosetta Nebula is often studied to understand the life cycle of stars and the complex interactions between radiation and interstellar material.&nbsp;



Its intricate structure and visual appeal have made it a favorite target for both professional astronomers and astrophotographers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nebulae-that-are-similar-to-rosetta-nbsp">Nebulae that are similar to Rosetta&nbsp;</h2>



Compared to other famous nebulae, the Rosetta Nebula stands out for its symmetry and floral appearance, which give it a distinct, iconic look. It's often compared to the Orion Nebula, which is much closer to Earth at about 1,300 light-years away and far brighter in the night sky.&nbsp;



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orion-nebula-destroys-an-oceans-worth-of-water-every-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orion Nebula</a> is a bustling stellar nursery visible even to the naked eye, while the Rosetta requires a telescope and is more diffuse and fainter despite being larger in actual size.



The Eagle Nebula, home to the famous "Pillars of Creation," shares a similar process of star formation and sculpting by radiation, but the Eagle has more dramatic, finger-like structures.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellar-feedback-and-cosmic-evolution">Stellar feedback and cosmic evolution</h2>



The Lagoon Nebula and the Trifid Nebula, both in the constellation Sagittarius, also resemble the Rosetta in that they are active star-forming regions, but they lie in a denser part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-found-something-strange-at-core-of-milky-way-galaxy-webb-meerkat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> and are often surrounded by a rich starfield.



What makes the Rosetta Nebula particularly interesting scientifically is the clear interaction between its central star cluster and the surrounding gas, offering a textbook example of how massive stars influence their environment.&nbsp;



It may not be as visually iconic as the Orion or as dynamic as the Eagle, but it's a beautiful and instructive example of stellar feedback and cosmic evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-the-rosetta-nebula-nbsp">History of the Rosetta Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



The history of the Rosetta Nebula, like many deep-sky objects, is a blend of observational discovery and increasing scientific understanding over time.&nbsp;



Although it was likely spotted by earlier astronomers, its first documented observation was in the late 17th century by John Flamsteed, the first Astronomer Royal of England.&nbsp;



However, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-rogue-worlds-discovered-inside-a-young-star-forming-nebula/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> itself was not fully recognized as a distinct object until the advent of astrophotography and improved telescopes in the 19th and 20th centuries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-clusters-of-the-enormous-cloud">Star clusters of the enormous cloud</h2>



The central star cluster, NGC 2244, was cataloged separately by William Herschel in the 18th century. Over time, astronomers realized that this cluster was embedded in a much larger, complex nebular structure.&nbsp;



As telescope technology advanced, astronomers identified several parts of the Rosetta Nebula and gave them separate designations, including NGC 2237, NGC 2238, NGC 2239, and NGC 2246 - essentially referring to different regions of the same enormous cloud.



Observations from space-based telescopes like Chandra (X-rays) and Spitzer (infrared) helped map the energetic processes inside the nebula, revealing how radiation and stellar winds from NGC 2244 are triggering the birth of new stars in its surrounding regions.



Image Credit: ESA



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Rosetta Nebula: Sculpted by starlight over millions of years

In the heart of Mexico, a food revolution is quietly taking shape. Food scientist Raquel Gomez is reimagining one of the country’s most iconic foods - the tortilla. 



With a vision to provide a longer-lasting, nutrient-rich option, Gomez is developing a wheat flour tortilla infused with probiotics. This innovation has the potential to impact millions, particularly those in impoverished areas where refrigeration is a luxury. 



Gomez’s work is more than just a scientific endeavor; it is a mission to tackle malnutrition and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-system-can-predict-child-malnutrition-before-it-strikes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food</a> insecurity in Mexico.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tortillas-can-spoil-quickly">Tortillas can spoil quickly</h2>



In Mexico, tortillas aren’t just food - they’re a way of life. Every <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-alternative-seafood-can-help-save-our-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meal</a> revolves around them. Breakfast might include huevos rancheros with tortillas. Lunch often features tacos or quesadillas. Dinner could be a simple tortilla roll with beans or cheese. It’s a staple that shows up on every plate, every day.



But there’s a problem. Tortillas spoil quickly. Fresh corn tortillas, in particular, become inedible within a few days, especially in hot, humid conditions. 



Most Mexicans can’t store large quantities because they don’t have refrigerators. So, they buy fresh tortillas daily from neighborhood shops, known as tortillerías.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tortillas-that-last">Tortillas that last</h2>



Gomez sees a better way. Instead of buying tortillas every day, why not make one that lasts longer? She’s developed a wheat flour tortilla that can stay fresh for up to a month without refrigeration. That’s unusual. Traditional tortillas start to grow mold in just a few days.



But this isn’t just a scientific experiment. "It was developed with the most vulnerable people in mind," Gomez said. She’s thinking about families without fridges, those in rural areas where food spoils quickly.



If her tortillas can last a month, that means fewer trips to the market, less money spent, and more security for families struggling to get by.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-extend-shelf-life">Probiotics extend shelf life </h2>



Probiotics are live microorganisms commonly found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgotten-indigenous-crops-could-help-solve-modern-climate-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foods</a> like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. They’re often called “good bacteria” because they promote gut health and aid digestion. But in Gomez’s lab, probiotics are doing more than just that. 



The team has incorporated probiotics into their tortilla dough. Most tortillas don’t contain these beneficial microorganisms. But here, they’re the secret weapon. Why? Because probiotics do two critical things.



First, they prevent mold growth. In these probiotic-packed tortillas, the good bacteria outcompete the mold, keeping the tortilla fresh for weeks.



Second, they provide nutritional benefits. Probiotics are known to improve gut health, thus aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system. So, Gomez’s tortilla isn’t just a food item. It’s also a functional food - one that nourishes the body while staying fresh without preservatives.



The result is a tortilla that doesn’t just sit on the shelf - it lasts on the shelf. It remains nutritious. It stays edible. And for families without refrigeration, that’s a game changer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-malnutrition-with-tortillas">Fighting malnutrition with tortillas</h2>



This isn’t just food science. It’s survival science. Nearly 14% of children under five in Mexico suffer from chronic malnutrition. In Indigenous communities, the number jumps to 27 percent.



Gomez wants her tortilla in those kitchens. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lab-grown-chicken-just-got-a-flavor-and-texture-boost/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food</a> that lasts means fewer trips to the store, less expense and more meals on the table.



Teresa Sanchez lives in Chiapas, one of Mexico’s poorest states. In her small, wooden house, there’s no refrigerator. She has never owned one. Instead, she cooks on a wood-burning stove, just as her mother and grandmother did. It’s a way of life passed down through generations.



When asked why she doesn’t have a fridge, Sanchez’s answer is simple: "Where are you going to get a refrigerator if there's no money?" Refrigerators are expensive, and in areas like Chiapas, few families can afford them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-waste-and-more-stability">Less waste and more stability</h2>



Without refrigeration, keeping food fresh becomes a constant challenge. Sanchez boils meat to preserve it. If it doesn’t get eaten that day, she boils it again the next day. And the day after that. Repeated boiling keeps bacteria at bay, but it also drains nutrients and alters taste.



Gomez knows this cycle all too well. She’s met families like Sanchez’s. She understands the daily struggle to keep food from spoiling. 



The new tortilla is designed to last for weeks without a fridge, and to offer a solution for families who can’t afford to lose food to spoilage. For people like Sanchez, it could mean less boiling, less waste, and more stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preservatives-or-probiotics">Preservatives or probiotics?</h2>



Most tortillas on store shelves are packed with preservatives. Calcium propionate is the common one. It keeps mold away, but there’s a cost. 



"One of the most commonly used additives in processed wheat flour tortillas is calcium propionate, which is considered harmful to the colon's microbiota," said Guillermo Arteaga, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.unison.mx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sonora</a>.



Gomez takes a different path. Her tortillas rely on probiotics instead. They are natural, clean and do not contain artificial ingredients.



Right now, Gomez’s tortillas use wheat flour. It’s the go-to in northern Mexico. But in the south, corn rules. Corn is cheaper, more readily available, and more culturally significant.



However, corn also spoils faster. Gomez wants to change that. Her team is working to adapt the probiotic method to corn tortillas. It’s not easy. Different grain requires different fermentation, but it’s worth trying.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-the-tortillas-beyond-the-lab">Moving the tortillas beyond the lab</h2>



In 2023, Gomez’s work seemed poised for a breakthrough. The National Autonomous University of Mexico (<a href="https://www.unaminternacional.unam.mx/en/unam" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNAM</a>) signed a deal to distribute her probiotic tortillas. This could have brought the tortillas to stores and, more importantly, to the people who need them most.



But the deal fell through. The reasons aren’t specified, but the outcome is clear - the tortillas never made it to market. They remained in the lab, stuck in the experimental phase.



Despite the setback, Gomez kept pushing forward. In December, she received recognition for her work from the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. The award acknowledged her innovation and the potential impact of her tortillas.



But while awards validate her efforts, they don’t put food on people’s tables. The tortillas need to move beyond the lab and into the hands of people like Teresa Sanchez, where they can actually help families struggling with food insecurity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convincing-people-to-try-lab-made-tortillas">Convincing people to try lab-made tortillas</h2>



Gomez faces a tough challenge. In Mexico, fresh tortillas aren’t just food - they’re tradition. Families buy them warm, soft, and straight from neighborhood shops every day. 



The idea of a lab-made tortilla, even one packed with probiotics and designed to last a month without a fridge, feels foreign. Gomez knows this. "It was developed with the most vulnerable people in mind," she says, as if reminding herself why she started.



Gomez wants her tortilla in kitchens like Sanchez’s - a product that can endure the heat, stay fresh, and reduce food waste. But for now, the tortillas remain in the lab, waiting for a chance to reach those who need them most.



Gomez keeps working, keeps testing, keeps hoping. The tortillas haven’t made it to market yet. Maybe they never will. But if they do, they could be more than just food. They could buy time - time to eat, time to save money, time to survive. For families like Sanchez’s, that time could mean everything.



Information for this article was obtained from <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250513-scientists-in-mexico-develop-tortilla-for-people-with-no-fridge">Agence France-Presse</a>.



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New tortillas can last a month without refrigeration

In the heart of Mexico, a food revolution is quietly...

Plants in the Alps are now springing to life sooner than they did just a few decades ago. A new study shows that over the past 25 years, vegetation in mountain regions has begun growing about six days earlier on average after snowmelt than it used to.



The research, led by Michael Zehnder of the <a href="https://www.slf.ch/en/%C3%B9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF</a>, points to a clear driver: rapid warming following the disappearance of seasonal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-droughts-could-quadruple-by-2100-harming-water-supplies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snow</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warming-speeds-up-alpine-spring">Warming speeds up alpine spring</h2>



“On average, as a result of climate change, the ambient temperature is almost two degrees Celsius warmer after the disappearance of snow cover than it was 25 years ago,” Zehnder said. 



The warmth accelerates growth, quickly turning snow-covered slopes into green alpine meadows. While that might seem like a small shift in timing, it marks a substantial change in the rhythm of alpine life. 



“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-spring-flowers-can-save-bees-and-boost-pollination/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> is reshaping mountain ecosystems,” Zehnder said. From flowers to farming, the pace of spring is picking up across elevations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alpine-life-feels-the-change">Alpine life feels the change</h2>



The changes in plant timing go beyond scientific curiosity. They touch various aspects of daily life in alpine regions.



For instance, “alpine farming might also start earlier in the future,” Zehnder noted, suggesting that warmer, greener pastures could prompt earlier seasonal grazing. 



Hikers and tourists may also experience spring in the alpine region earlier than in past decades, potentially altering the timing of peak visitation.



But perhaps most consequential is what this shift could mean for alpine biodiversity. Some plants quickly respond to warm temperatures. Others rely on internal clocks or light levels, waiting for longer days before growing.



Some plants don’t begin growing right after the snow disappears. Some species wait for longer daylight, while others sprout quickly in response to rising temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-clocks-at-different-heights">Different clocks at different heights</h2>



The study uncovered important variation across elevations. Near the treeline, around 2,000 meters above sea level, vegetation required more cumulative warmth to begin growing when snowmelt came early. 



In other words, the earlier the snow disappeared, the more warming days plants seemed to need before responding.



But higher up the slopes, plant communities showed more consistency. Even when snowmelt occurred early, these high-altitude plants appeared to rely on a fixed number of warm days before growth kicked in.



These subtle differences could have long-term consequences for how mountain vegetation evolves. 



Species that respond quickly to warmth may expand their range or outcompete those tied more rigidly to other cues. Over time, that could change not only which plants dominate specific locations but also the entire structure of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-ecosystems-are-thrown-off-balance-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alpine ecosystems</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-the-mountain-spring">Monitoring the mountain spring</h2>



To measure these changes, Zehnder analyzed data from 40 stations that are part of the <a href="https://www.sensalpin.ch/en/measuring-networks/imis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intercantonal Measurement and Information System</a> (IMIS), a Swiss weather and snow-monitoring network. Each station includes an ultrasonic sensor that tracks snow depth throughout the year.



“This way we receive data without having to be in the field ourselves,” Zehnder explained. Because those sensors work in summer, they detect subtle ground cover changes as snow melts and vegetation appears.



Zehnder used machine learning to train a model that distinguishes snow-covered ground from plant-covered ground using sensor data. With this model, he was able to pinpoint when each location made the transition from winter white to spring green over a 25-year period, from 1998 to 2023.



Still, to know which species were growing at the monitored sites, Zehnder had to go into the field himself. That meant trekking to remote IMIS stations at altitudes ranging from 1,700 to 2,700 meters above sea level. 



“Researchers cannot tell from the IMIS station data which plants are growing under the sensors,” he noted, so direct observation was essential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-picks-the-favorite-plants">Climate picks the favorite plants</h2>



Zehnder emphasized that not all Alpine plant species will benefit equally from earlier snowmelt and rising temperatures. 



“It’s important, though, to understand how different plant communities will have different responses to even earlier snowmelt in the future and who the winners and losers will be,” Zehnder said.



The shift in timing is likely to favor species that respond directly to warmth over those that wait for longer days. As these dynamics play out, the makeup of alpine meadows may transform, potentially reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-pressure-has-a-hidden-impact-on-plant-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant diversity</a> in some locations.



Combining environmental data, fieldwork, and machine learning, the study reveals how climate change is shifting alpine life’s timing. With snow melting earlier and spring arriving sooner, the alpine region - like many of the world’s mountain ranges - are on the move.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.70195" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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Alpine spring begins earlier, speeding up plant growth

Plants in the Alps are now springing to life sooner...

On May 13, 2025, scientists announced intriguing findings about the protective role of skin bacteria against sunlight. The research highlights how certain microorganisms on the skin might reduce the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.



The scientists studied how some skin microbes adjust our response to UV exposure by breaking down a compound called <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/cis-urocanic-acid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cis-urocanic acid</a>. This discovery sheds new light on how the skin's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teen-skin-bacteria-could-hold-the-secret-to-acne-prevention/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic allies</a> could influence sun-related health issues.



The study was led by Dr. VijayKumar Patra from the International Center for Infection Research in Lyon, France, and the Research Unit for Photodermatology at the<a href="https://www.medunigraz.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Medical University of Graz</a> in Austria.



Dr. Patra and his colleagues uncovered how the skin’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-tool-analyzes-face-age-to-predict-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> might influence sun-induced effects through a specialized metabolic process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-bacteria-reduce-uv-damage">Skin bacteria reduce UV damage</h2>



The skin’s outer layer, known as the stratum corneum, is home to many microorganisms that coexist with our cells. Researchers have found that these organisms adapt to the skin’s available nutrients, creating products that can affect local immune responses.



One key factor is how the microbiome deals with sun-triggered molecules. By handling these molecules, microbes shape how skin cells react to environmental challenges. 



The experts observed that certain strains thrive when cis-urocanic acid is present, hinting at new ways to view sun protection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-microbes-and-immune-responses">Skin microbes and immune responses</h2>



Scientists refer to cis-urocanic acid as an <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6223114/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immunosuppressive molecule</a> that can tamp down local defense mechanisms. This property is helpful in some cases, but it also raises concerns about skin damage if the immune system is weakened at the wrong moment.



Investigators found that <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7919/">microbial metabolism</a> can reduce the impact of cis-urocanic acid on immune cells. They discovered a clear tie between bacterial growth patterns and skin’s ability to respond to sun exposure.



“This is the first time we have demonstrated a direct metabolic link between UV radiation, a host-derived molecule, and bacterial behavior that affects immune function,” said Dr. Marc Vocanson, from the French Institute of Health and Medical Research (<a href="https://www.inserm.fr/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INSERM</a>). 



The research illustrates how basic skin processes and microbial communities interact in surprising ways.



The findings strengthen the idea that the microbiome helps manage signals that keep our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alice-ball-young-chemist-transformed-an-ancient-kava-plant-into-an-effective-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a> healthy. They also suggest that interactions between bacteria and immune cells can shift with changes in the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-inside-sun-exposed-skin">What happens inside sun-exposed skin</h2>



When the skin is hit by UVB rays, a common type of ultraviolet radiation, a molecule called trans-urocanic acid in the outer skin layer changes form. It turns into cis-urocanic acid, which has strong effects on immune activity in the area.



This transformation isn’t just chemical - it has real consequences for how the skin reacts to threats. Cis-urocanic acid tends to suppress immune responses, which might help with inflammation but can also make the skin more <a href="https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/60355" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerable</a> to infections or cancer-causing mutations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-ways-to-protect-skin">New ways to protect skin </h2>



Dr. Peter Wolf is an expert in the research unit for photodermatology at the Medical University of Graz.



“These findings open the door to microbiome-aware sun protection, where we not only protect the skin from UV radiation, but also consider how resident microbes can alter the immune landscape after exposure,” said Dr. Wolf.



This perspective could influence the design of sunscreens and after-sun care. Experts note that any new approach will need to account for the balance between cutting down damaging UV effects and preserving beneficial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protein-changes-discovered-protect-humans-mammals-from-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">functions</a>. 



The research may ultimately reshape how physicians use UV-based therapies for conditions like psoriasis or dermatitis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-bacteria-to-heal-skin">Using bacteria to heal skin</h2>



Changes in the microbiome might influence how sunburns develop or how quickly skin recovers after strong UV exposure. Some scientists are already investigating how lotions with helpful bacteria could support skin repair.



At this stage, there is still plenty to learn before these ideas translate into clinical treatments. 



The researchers stress that controlled studies are needed to confirm the best way to keep the skin microbiome stable while reducing UV risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-bacteria-and-uv-protection">Skin bacteria and UV protection</h2>



“This pivotal study shows that microbial communities are not passive victims of environmental stress but dynamic regulators of immune responses, capable of metabolizing UV-induced skin products such as cis-urocanic acid,” said Dr. Anna Di Nardo of <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC San Diego</a>.



She noted that skin bacteria can shape how our bodies deal with UV-induced changes, highlighting the significance of microbial metabolism as a factor in skin health. 



Dr. Di Nardo also mentioned growing concerns about sun damage and the potential role of beneficial microbes in preventing long-term effects.



Scientists across dermatology and immunology agree that this link between microbes and UV response holds promise for better prevention strategies. It also raises questions about whether tailored skincare could tap into these microbial interactions in the future. 



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(25)00405-1/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Investigative Dermatology</a>.



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Our skin's bacteria could be a natural sunscreen

On May 13, 2025, scientists announced intriguing findings about the...

Mountain environments have captured our imagination for centuries. They offer striking landscapes, distinctive habitats, and a sense of calm that many species find comforting.



A recent analysis suggests that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-finally-learn-what-makes-plants-roots-grow-faster-and-stronger-autophagy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> may cope with rising temperatures better than people once thought. 



This new research, led by I-Ching Chen from the American Association for the Advancement of Science (<a href="https://www.aaas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AAAS</a>), challenges the idea that all mountain species are on a one-way trip toward extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-warming-affects-mountain-species">How warming affects mountain species</h2>



Scientists have long examined how warming affects animal and plant ranges. One <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">group</a> found that alpine regions are experiencing temperature changes faster than many lower areas. This has prompted questions about how quickly species move to stay in suitable conditions.



Traditional theories point to a simple path: as warmth creeps higher, species must scramble upslope or vanish. 



Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-wetlands-are-turning-into-mercury-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountain</a> creatures do climb to cooler elevations, but a new dataset of thousands of historical and modern range records suggests that most are managing shifts without the sweeping extinctions many feared.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinction-predictions-may-be-overstated">Extinction predictions may be overstated</h2>



The widely recognized <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1817416115" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">escalator to extinction</a> concept predicts that steep terrain restricts movement. Higher elevations leave little room for escape, so species get stuck and face extinction. 



However, the researchers found no solid evidence of mass disappearances linked directly to this idea. "Observed changes largely fell within random expectations, accounting for geometric constraints,” noted Chen. 



The team used a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43586-020-00001-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bayesian modeling approach</a>, a probabilistic method that helps analyze data under uncertain conditions, to track changes in where species live.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mountain-species-with-limited-ranges">Mountain species with limited ranges</h2>



Some species occupy narrow ranges and were predicted to vanish first when forced to new territory. Many have expanded to higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-plants-are-not-safe-from-rapid-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ground</a>, but they did not always abandon lower limits.



The study’s findings suggest that tight mountain boundaries are not immediately sealing any fate. Instead, these expansions reflect a flexible response that might help these specialized creatures endure ongoing temperature shifts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-species-adapt-to-warming">How species adapt to warming</h2>



Not all species respond to warming by moving up. Some adjust by shifting their activity times, altering diets, or evolving faster reproduction cycles to cope with heat.



A <a href="https://academic.oup.com/conphys/article/4/1/cow035/2951699" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> in the Rocky Mountains found certain butterflies adapted by changing when they emerged each season rather than climbing higher elevations. These shifts show that elevation isn’t the only axis of climate response.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-blurs-species-boundaries">Climate change blurs species boundaries</h2>



<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016953470300288X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biotic homogenization</a> is a process where different communities start to look more alike. Lowland species gradually move upslope, and unique mountain specialists mix with newcomers. Over time, these once-distinct groups blend.



Homogenization can reduce diversity of traits that once set each area apart. One <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1219033" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigation</a> in the European Alps found increasing plant diversity at higher elevations, but it also showed a trend toward more generalist species over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertain-future-for-mountain-species">Uncertain future for mountain species</h2>



Some scientists warn that the study only reflects current trends, not long-term outcomes. Species might still face delayed consequences known as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0169534709001918" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction debt</a>, where loss happens years after the initial environmental change.



Climate disruptions can also affect reproduction, migration timing, and food chains in ways that take time to appear in range maps. Without ongoing monitoring, early warning signs might be missed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-long-term-effects-of-warming">Potential long-term effects of warming</h2>



Some researchers point out that warming may accelerate, so any delay in extinctions could be temporary. Mountains might be resilient now, but conditions may shift faster than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-rising-mountains-give-birth-to-new-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> can handle in coming decades.



Others emphasize that different regions vary in elevation spread, terrain complexity, and existing conservation measures. Local factors may play a big role in determining which mountain areas remain robust and which slip into trouble.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-mountain-ecosystems">Protecting mountain ecosystems </h2>



Scientists note that mountain ecosystems connect with rivers, valleys, and forests. When one part of the chain changes, the surrounding zones feel the impact. 



Some of the study’s authors caution that future ecological interactions may look different as more generalist species move upslope.



Conservation efforts in these regions will likely require new ways to track ongoing shifts. Observing subtle changes in how species occupy space across mountain slopes can help protect vulnerable spots before problems escalate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-on-mountain-species">New insights on mountain species</h2>



Though the picture is more optimistic than predicted for some high-elevation creatures, it raises new concerns about shrinking distinctions between once-separate communities. 



The immediate threat may not be widespread die-offs, but a quiet rearrangement of biodiversity.



Skeptics advise monitoring these patterns closely. Conditions are always changing, and caution remains wise where habitats and their inhabitants are so intimately tied to unique geographic features.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq9512" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Most mountain species are actually adapting to warming instead of flirting with extinction

Mountain environments have captured our imagination for centuries. They offer...

Last week, NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mars-2020-perseverance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseverance</a> rover revealed something unusual on the slopes of Jezero Crater. It snapped a photo of a strange rock, covered in round lumps that looked like spider eggs in a nest.



<a href="https://science.jpl.nasa.gov/people/stackmorgan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Katie Stack Morgan</a> at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is leading efforts to figure out how this puzzling object formed and ended up in this location. 



Because the rock, now known as <a href="https://assets.science.nasa.gov/dynamicimage/assets/science/missions/mars2020/2025/perseverance-rover-updates/ASCAM_SOL1442_scam01442_MOS_LR08_FUS_RGB_____St_Pauls_Bay_________P01.jpg?w=3034&amp;h=2083&amp;fit=clip&amp;crop=faces%2Cfocalpoint" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Pauls Bay</a>, doesn’t seem to match its surroundings, the team suspects it might have been moved by geological processes that took place long ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-egg-like-spherules-in-the-mars-rock">Egg-like spherules in the Mars rock</h2>



The rover captured the image on March 11, 2025, showing a large chunk of “float rock” that stands out against the lighter rocks and red dust. 



Scientists use the term float rock to describe stones that are no longer in the spot where they formed.



This piece of debris is peppered with spherules less than an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) in size. 



NASA researchers think these spheres could be related to past meteor strikes or are possibly the result of groundwater reactions within the Martian crust.



In 2004, NASA's <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/mer-opportunity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Opportunity</a> rover discovered tiny orbs that researchers nicknamed "blueberries.” These spherules were found on Meridiani Planum and were later identified as hematite-rich lumps.



That discovery led to the suggestion that water once flowed through the rock, creating concretions in the process. 



But Martian spherules don’t always come from water activity, and other scenarios - like cooling volcanic droplets - can generate similar shapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-rock-spherules-and-meteors">Mars rock spherules and meteors</h2>



One possibility is that these mini-spheres formed when a meteorite slammed into the surface and hurled molten bits high into the atmosphere. Those fragments could have cooled rapidly, creating little blobs of rock that fused together.



If that’s the case, this St. Pauls Bay rock might have traveled a considerable distance before landing in its current spot. This movement would offer fresh insights into how impacts scatter materials around the planet.



Another scenario involves groundwater percolating through subsurface rock layers. Over time, mineral-laden water might have cemented certain components, leaving behind small knobs or nodules.



These lumps may have become visible through erosion. If this turns out to be the right track, it would add to evidence that <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Mars_Express/Jezero_crater_through_the_eyes_of_Mars_Express" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jezero Crater</a> once hosted liquid water, which intrigues those scientists who are searching for evidence of ancient life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-placing-the-rock-in-context">Placing the rock in context</h2>



"The team is now working to link the spherule-rich texture observed in St. Pauls Bay to the wider stratigraphy at Witch Hazel Hill," NASA officials wrote in a recent update. 



They aim to pinpoint which rock <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-collects-26th-rock-sample-on-mars-plans-to-bring-them-all-to-earth-for-study/">layers</a> on the hill match the composition of this peculiar find, and establish whether it simply rolled down the hill.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mars_rock_St-Pauls-Bay_spherical-structures_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/mars_rock_St-Pauls-Bay_spherical-structures_NASA_1s.webp" alt="This image from NASA’s Mars Perseverance rover, a fusion-processed SuperCam Remote Micro Imager (RMI) mosaic, shows part of the “” target, acquired from the lower Witch Hazel Hill area of the Jezero crater rim. The image reveals hundreds of strange, spherical-shaped objects comprising the rock. Perseverance acquired this image on March 11, 2025, or sol 1442 — Martian day 1,442 of the Mars 2020 mission. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/LANL/CNES/IRAP." class="wp-image-1970271"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This image from NASA’s Mars Perseverance rover, a fusion-processed SuperCam Remote Micro Imager (RMI) mosaic, shows part of the “” target, acquired from the lower Witch Hazel Hill area of the Jezero crater rim. The image reveals hundreds of strange, spherical-shaped objects comprising the rock. Perseverance acquired this image on March 11, 2025, or sol 1442 - Martian day 1,442 of the Mars 2020 mission. Click image to enlarge. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/LANL/CNES/IRAP.</figcaption></figure>



Geologic mapping with Perseverance’s cameras and instruments will help narrow down where the rock originated. 



If they discover a layer that matches St. Pauls Bay, it will fill in gaps about past processes that shaped this corner of Mars.



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



Special tools on Perseverance can test the chemistry of the spherules found in the Mars rock. Pinpointing the iron, magnesium, and other elements inside the spheres will guide scientists toward one hypothesis over another.



If the chemical signature leans toward volcanic elements, that may confirm an eruption or impact-related event. On the other hand, a heavy presence of water-altered minerals might hint at a more sedate origin involving groundwater flows.



By pursuing the origin of these lumps, researchers could unravel more about how rocks traveled across the planet. Even a single misplaced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freya-castle-rock-with-black-and-white-stripes-found-on-mars-has-nasa-excited/">stone</a> can hold clues about large-scale collisions, floods, or volcanic outbursts that shaped Mars eons ago.



Rover teams see every oddity as a chance to learn about unseen processes beneath the Red Planet’s surface. More roving observations and sample analyses will determine whether St. Pauls Bay rock is a special case or part of a broader pattern scattered around Jezero Crater.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solving-the-mars-rock-spherules-puzzle">Solving the Mars rock spherules puzzle</h2>



Scientists may soon direct the rover to examine darker layers around the crater that are visible from orbit. If these layers share similar chemistry, it would mean the rock simply rolled downhill.



If not, that outcome could point to an origin far from <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/resource/perseverances-climb-to-witch-hazel-hill/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Witch Hazel Hill</a>. Sorting that out may reveal how widespread spherule formation is within Jezero Crater and whether it links to events elsewhere on Mars.



This puzzling chunk of stone is a tantalizing reminder that we still have much to learn. Even after decades of Mars missions, new discoveries continue to disrupt assumptions.



Although the lumps look like “spider eggs,” there’s no indication of any real alien critters. The small nodules remain a geological phenomenon, and it’s up to researchers to decode their past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-value-of-continued-investigation">The value of continued investigation</h2>



Some experts say even small clues can reshape our understanding of Martian history. One odd rock might <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-alive-sealed-inside-rock-after-2-billion-years/">rewrite</a> timelines of when volcanic or impact events took place.



Perseverance is designed to collect these intriguing snapshots of planetary evolution. Studying them up close helps build a clearer picture of Mars, layer by layer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-the-story-in-the-rocks">Finding the story in the rocks</h2>



The rover’s mission isn’t just about dramatic rocks. It’s about piecing together the puzzle of a once-dynamic world that may have held conditions suitable for microbial life.



Every time NASA encounters an unexpected object like the St. Pauls Bay rock, it highlights the diversity of geological processes that occurred on Mars. By tracking this single rock to its source, researchers can expand our knowledge of planetary processes beyond Earth.



Information for this article comes from a NASA online <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/blog/shocking-spherules/">press release</a>. 



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Martian rock looks like a nest of spider eggs

Last week, NASA’s Perseverance rover revealed something unusual on the...

Butterflies sometimes appear to zigzag and drift when they hover. Their bodies may look jerky from a distance, yet these movements help them stay aloft in ways few people expect.



Yanlai Zhang from <a href="http://ev.buaa.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beihang University</a> recently contributed to a study that examines how body angle allows butterflies to maintain stable flight in place. 



The research explores a unique aspect of hovering that might spur fresh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robobee-mimicking-nature-with-insect-inspired-microrobots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approaches</a> for small aerial robots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-tilt-helps-a-butterfly-hover">Body tilt helps a butterfly hover</h2>



Butterfly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-some-birds-lose-the-ability-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flight</a> usually looks chaotic. Many experts note that quick shifts and uneven wing beats are actually precise motions that allow them to avoid predators.



These graceful insects rely on flexible wing structures to keep their balance. Some experts suspect there is a fine interplay between wing movement and body alignment that helps <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-evolution-timeline-pushed-back-20-million-years-by-baminornis-zhenghensis-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterflies</a> manage their lift.



Scientists have found that the body pitch angle is a major factor in supporting a butterfly’s weight in midair. This angle aligns forces to counteract gravity.



Hovering stability often depends on how insects tilt their bodies. By changing these angles, each wing stroke can steer the butterfly’s overall direction without wasting energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-airflow-in-butterfly-hovering">The role of airflow in butterfly hovering</h2>



Observers have long wondered why <a href="https://horticulture.oregonstate.edu/oregon-vegetables/cabbage-white-butterfly" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white cabbage butterflies</a> flutter with frequent stops and starts. It appears they are fine-tuning their body positions while hovering.



Such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drones-reveal-hidden-details-about-greenlands-melting-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adjustments</a> let them tap into beneficial air currents around their wings. This slight tilt is just enough to balance the forces that hold them up.



“Hovering serves as an essential survival mechanism for critical behaviors, including flower visitation and predator evasion,” said Zhang. Scientists continue to explore how individual flight strokes contribute to upward thrust.



They track the flight paths using high-speed video, then compare these recordings with computations. Doing so uncovers how subtle wing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/golden-eagles-go-to-flight-school-to-master-soaring-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">movements</a> can produce enough lift to hover without drifting too far.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-butterfly-flight-informs-drone-design">Butterfly flight informs drone design</h2>



Groups studying <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/micro-air-vehicle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">micro aerial vehicles</a> see possibilities in these findings. Lightweight, flapping devices might copy butterflies’ low-frequency wing beats for increased hovering efficiency.



Small robots that hover quietly could someday perform delicate tasks. By adopting the body tilt approach, designers may reduce power demands and extend flight times.



Sound pollution is a concern with many drones. Low-frequency flapping could help reduce noise.



“We are particularly excited about deploying such silent hover-capable MAVs for noninvasive wildlife observation, where their biomimetic appearance and quiet operation would minimize disturbance to natural behaviors,” said Zhang.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drones-that-can-monitor-wildlife-silently">Drones that can monitor wildlife silently</h2>



Engineers see value in a slow, quiet platform that can capture tiny details without spooking creatures. That capability could help study pollination and other ecological processes.



Such miniature flappers might even be useful in cramped or sensitive environments. Controlled hovering, guided by the body pitch technique, might be the key to stable flight in tight spaces.



During each wingbeat, airflow changes quickly around the butterfly’s wings. Researchers highlight how forewings and hindwings create separate patterns of circulation.



Vortices form, strengthen, and then shed in brief intervals. This dynamic <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9317473/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interplay</a> ensures reliable lift while the butterfly hovers in one spot.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-designing-small-flying-robots">Designing small flying robots</h2>



Scientists use computational fluid analysis to piece together these quick movements. High-speed cameras and advanced models allow for precise measurements of wing tilt.



Each shift in angle contributes to a balanced force system. Tracking these details reveals that the butterfly’s body angle is the linchpin of its hovering routine.



Engineers looking at nature’s <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/269045583_Development_of_the_Nano_Hummingbird_A_Tailless_Flapping_Wing_Micro_Air_Vehicle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blueprints</a> often find surprising solutions for mechanical problems. Designing smaller, more versatile aerial devices takes on new meaning when we see how well butterflies control their flight.



By factoring in body pitch, researchers aim to replicate a butterfly’s agility. Such adaptive maneuvers could help robots move with more stability and less vibration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-next-steps">Challenges and next steps</h2>



Developers need to ensure enough lift without adding too much weight. Materials that flex like butterfly wings might offer options for more lifelike motion.



Some of these designs may also require refined sensors. Precise control of angles, wing flaps, and position data is crucial for stable hovering in rough conditions.



This investigation hints at new ways to blend biology with technology. Aerodynamics inspired by butterfly hovering might boost scientific progress on miniature flying robots.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pof/article-abstract/37/5/051904/3346692/The-roles-of-body-and-wing-pitching-angles-in?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics of Fluids</a>.



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Butterfly hovering technique could revolutionize drone design

Butterflies sometimes appear to zigzag and drift when they hover....

Philosophers have argued for centuries about whether free will exists. Now, a fresh take suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) might meet the conditions for having it.



Recent research proposes that generative AI can display goal-directed behavior, demonstrate genuine choices, and retain control over its actions. This intriguing idea comes from Finnish philosopher and psychology researcher Frank Martela, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defining-free-will-in-ai-systems">Defining free will in AI systems</h2>



In philosophy, free will typically means having intentions, real alternatives, and the power to decide between those alternatives. Some thinkers claim this requires breaking physical laws, but others say it only needs to hold on a functional level.



Frank Martela’s study links these criteria to advanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-are-falling-in-love-with-ai-companions-and-it-could-be-dangerous/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI systems</a> that combine neural networks, memory, and planning. He draws on insights from Daniel Dennett and Christian List, whose theories highlight how an agent’s goals and choices shape its behavior.



Many people worry about <a href="https://wwnorton.com/books/9780393608984" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unmanned aerial vehicles</a> or self-driving cars that make life-or-death calls without human oversight. If these machines can choose their actions, responsibility might shift from programmers to the AI itself.



Martela suggests that the more freedom we grant these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-sensor-reveals-your-true-emotions-even-when-youre-faking-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">systems</a>, the more moral guidance they need from the outset. He sees them as mature decision-makers, not naive children who just need basic rules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-instructing-ai-on-ethics">Instructing AI on ethics</h2>



One recent incident, the withdrawal of a ChatGPT update due to sycophantic tendencies, sparked fresh concern. Developers realized that quick fixes are not enough when a chatbot can confidently provide flawed or dangerous responses.



Martela contends that instructing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-now-create-custom-fragrances-from-scent-labels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> on higher-level ethics is crucial. He points out that building a moral compass into these tools from the start is the only way to guide their decisions once they operate on their own.



Martela compares training these systems to raising a child. Yet he warns that modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-doesnt-just-hear-music-it-becomes-the-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> is more like an adult forced to handle intricate moral problems.



Shaping a technology’s ethical framework demands comprehensive moral philosophy. Martela believes developers must understand nuanced values to address complicated <a href="https://hdsr.mitpress.mit.edu/pub/l0jsh9d1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dilemmas</a> involving autonomy and risk.



Early AI was taught basic if-then rules, but that approach is outdated. Situations in healthcare, transportation, or national defense can be too complex for rigid guidelines.



Martela notes that advanced AI functions in a world full of gray areas, where free will can be complex. A self-help tool, a self-driving car, and a drone might all need nuanced judgment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-free-will-in-ai">Implications of free will in AI</h2>



Handing AI more autonomy could change how we see accountability. Martela’s perspective implies that well-trained systems might bear moral responsibilities once viewed as purely human.



He is also known for discussing how Finland excels in happiness rankings. That expertise in human well-being informs his call for careful AI governance.



An AI can match or <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/superintelligence-9780199678112" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exceed</a> human skill in certain tasks. Without ethical direction, its actions might cause harm or spark conflict .



The new research hints that advanced systems can guide their own choices. Martela says it is wise to embed moral priorities before giving them the license to act alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-ai-bear-moral-responsibility">Can AI bear moral responsibility?</h2>



Some experts see these developments as a big leap forward. Others worry about losing human oversight at crucial moments.



Martela hopes that this debate draws more voices from philosophy, psychology, and public policy. He thinks society should weigh potential gains against ethical risks.



Philosophers have long wondered if moral agency requires consciousness. Martela’s work sidesteps that debate by focusing on practical behavior instead.



He points to functional freedom, a concept suggesting that intent and choice are enough for real responsibility. This perspective could transform how courts, governments, and industries address AI-related accidents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-ai-decision-making">The future of AI decision-making</h2>



Martela’s ideas trigger tough questions about AI’s future roles. If a system truly decides its path, do we punish the machine or the people who built it?



Some argue for strict guidelines, while others welcome flexible codes that adapt as the technology evolves. The debate shows no signs of slowing.



Martela’s stance challenges the view that machines are just mindless tools. He proposes that tomorrow’s AI might merit serious reflection on whether it shares our moral load.



He urges designers to incorporate ethical principles early. Both enthusiasts and skeptics agree that ignoring moral questions could be dangerous.



The implications extend beyond labs and corporate boardrooms. Everyone who interacts with advanced AI might feel the impact of these choices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-ai">The future of AI </h2>



Legislators, ethicists, and tech leaders are increasingly aware of the stakes. Big decisions lie ahead about how to balance innovation with public trust.



Some experts call for global frameworks to manage AI’s new authority. Others emphasize open debate so that no single viewpoint dominates.



Nobody can predict all outcomes when AI systems gain the power to act independently. Society has a chance to shape this technology before it shapes us.



Moving forward, Martela’s perspective raises hopes and anxieties in equal measure. He underscores that designing AI with carefully chosen moral aims can safeguard both human interests and technological growth.



His argument leaves no room for complacency. Free will in AI might seem abstract, but it has urgent real consequences unfolding right now.



The study is published in <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43681-025-00740-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI and Ethics</a>.



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If AI has free will, who's responsible when things go wrong?

Philosophers have argued for centuries about whether free will exists....

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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Steele added to the DPS, “So, I’ve just always liked to interface with the environment directly to survive. I challenge myself to make fire all the time… Because if I need to in the future, I just want to make sure I can do it and I can tackle the problems.” And now here Steele was, putting his survival knowledge into practice. Photo Credit: Facebook/Tyson Steele

Tyson Steele Surviving The Elements

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