In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp;



Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-the-heart-with-light">Controlling the heart with light</h2>



The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest.



The external controller detects abnormal rhythms and sends light through the body to activate the pacemaker and restore heartbeat. The study demonstrates the device’s effectiveness across animal and human donor hearts.&nbsp;



The development of the pacemaker was led by John A. Rogers, a professor of material science, biomedical engineering, and neurological surgery at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>.&nbsp;



“We have developed what is, to our knowledge, the world’s smallest pacemaker,” said Professor Rogers.



“There’s a crucial need for temporary pacemakers in the context of pediatric heart surgeries, and that’s a use case where size miniaturization is incredibly important. In terms of the device load on the body - the smaller, the better.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solution-designed-for-newborns">Solution designed for newborns</h2>



Though the light-activated pacemaker can function in patients of all sizes, its miniaturized design was motivated by the needs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-speech-is-driven-by-heart-rate-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants</a>. 



Igor Efimov is a co-leader of the study and experimental cardiologist at Northwestern.&nbsp;



“About 1% of children are born with congenital heart defects. The good news is that these children only need temporary pacing after a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-robot-could-transform-minimally-invasive-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surgery</a>. In about seven days or so, most patients’ hearts will self-repair. But those seven days are absolutely critical," said Efimov.



Traditional pacemakers require surgery and have wires sticking out of the chest to connect to an external device. When they are no longer needed, the wires are removed - risking bleeding, tissue damage, or even death.



“Wires literally protrude from the body, attached to a pacemaker outside the body,” Efimov explained. “When the pacemaker is no longer needed, a physician pulls it out. The wires can become enveloped in scar tissue. That’s actually how Neil Armstrong died.”



The new injectable pacemaker addresses these risks. All of its components are biocompatible and bioresorbable, meaning they safely dissolve in the body’s fluids without needing surgical removal. Once the device has served its purpose, it simply disappears.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-the-light-activated-pacemaker">Refining the light-activated pacemaker</h2>



This innovation builds on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-021-00948-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier work</a> by Rogers and Efimov, who developed a quarter-sized dissolvable pacemaker in 2021. Surgeons asked for a smaller version to allow easier placement and suit the smallest patients.&nbsp;



The original device used near-field communication (NFC), but its antenna limited how small the device could be made. To overcome this, the team replaced the NFC system with a novel light-based mechanism.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pacemaker_light-activated_worlds-smallest_heart-health_Northwestern_1s.webp" alt="The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University" class="wp-image-1964846"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tiny pacemaker sits next to a single grain of rice on a fingertip. The device is so small that it can be non-invasively injected into the body via a syringe. Click image to enlarge. Credit: John A. Rogers/Northwestern University</figcaption></figure>



“Instead of using the radio frequency scheme for wireless control, we developed a light-based scheme for turning the pacemaker on and delivering stimulation pulses to the surface of the heart. This is one feature that allowed us to dramatically reduce the size,” said Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powered-by-the-body-s-own-fluids">Powered by the body’s own fluids</h2>



The engineers also reimagined how to power the tiny pacemaker. Rather than requiring a battery or external power source, the device uses a simple galvanic cell - a chemical battery formed by two different metals as electrodes.&nbsp;



When the device is inside the body, surrounding biofluids act as the electrolyte, allowing electrical current to flow and stimulate the heart.



“A very tiny light-activated switch on the opposite side from the battery allows us to turn the device from its ‘off’ state to an ‘on’ state upon delivery of light that passes through the patient’s body from the skin-mounted patch,” explained Professor Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-trauma-and-risk">Reducing trauma and risk</h2>



Using infrared light, which can safely penetrate deep into the body, the wearable controller detects when a patient’s heart rate falls too low. It then triggers a light-emitting diode (LED) to flash on and off at the desired pacing rhythm.&nbsp;



“Infrared light penetrates very well through the body,” Efimov said. “If you put a flashlight against your palm, you will see the light glow through the other side of your hand. It turns out that our bodies are great conductors of light.”



Despite its microscopic size - just 1.8 mm wide, 3.5 mm long, and 1 mm thick - the pacemaker delivers stimulation on par with traditional devices. “The heart requires a tiny amount of electrical stimulation,” Rogers said.&nbsp;



“By minimizing the size, we dramatically simplify the implantation procedures, we reduce trauma and risk to the patient, and, with the dissolvable nature of the device, we eliminate any need for secondary surgical extraction procedures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-heart-care">A new era of heart care</h2>



Because these light-activated pacemakers are so small and wireless, doctors could one day deploy multiple units on different parts of the heart to create more advanced pacing systems. 



Each device could be controlled independently using different light wavelengths, enabling personalized and precisely timed stimulation across the heart’s surface.



“We can deploy a number of such small pacemakers onto the outside of the heart and control each one,” Efimov said. “Then we can achieve improved synchronized functional care.”



Professor Rogers noted that because it’s so small, the pacemaker can be integrated with almost any kind of implantable device.



“We also demonstrated integration of collections of these devices across the frameworks that serve as transcatheter aortic valve replacements to address complications that can occur during a patient’s recovery process," said Rogers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-bioelectronic-medicine">Future of bioelectronic medicine</h2>



While this breakthrough has clear implications for pediatric heart care, the technology could pave the way for a new generation of bioelectronic medicine.&nbsp;



These tiny, dissolvable devices could one day be adapted to promote nerve and bone regeneration, manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a>, support wound healing, and more.



Northwestern engineers shrank the device and removed risks by making it dissolve after use. In doing so, they’ve created a tool that could reshape how doctors care for the heart - from the tiniest patients to adults.



-----



Click here to <a href="https://youtu.be/j_0hZ8cUwgo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watch a video interview...</a>



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08726-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, engineers have developed a light-activated pacemaker so tiny that doctors can inject it into the body through a syringe. Remarkably, the device simply dissolves after it’s no longer needed.&nbsp; Designed for newborns, the pacemaker could transform temporary heart care after congenital defect surgeries. Controlling the heart with light The new pacemaker is smaller than a grain of rice. It's wirelessly activated through pulses of light which are delivered by a soft, wearable device mounted on the patient’s chest. The external controller detects...

Scientists recently used paramotoring to uncover new plant species and support desert conservation.



We've all heard about scientists exploring the ocean's depths and mountain heights. But have you ever heard of paramotorists, airborne in the sky, teaming up with scientists to explore the rich biodiversity of Peru's desert ecosystems? 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paramotoring-to-discover-plants">Paramotoring to discover plants</h2>



Historically, off-road vehicles have been the go-to mode of transportation for researchers conducting fieldwork in challenging terrains. 



However, with our planet's health in dire straits, the need for more sustainable methods has become a pressing concern. Enter paramotoring - a faster, less intrusive, and more environmentally-friendly alternative.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peru-s-fog-oasis-desert">Peru’s fog oasis desert</h2>



What does a desert, a paramotor, and a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-plants-make-life-and-death-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>-loving scientist have in common? The thrilling, unique expedition to the fog oasis desert of Peru. 



Here, the fusion of cutting-edge technology and traditional botanical research led to the discovery of unique plant species, enriching our understanding of this fragile ecosystem's biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planting-seeds-for-a-greener-future">Planting seeds for a greener future</h2>



Partnerships often breed success, and the joint efforts of renowned scientists from RBG Kew and local Peruvian organization Huarango Nature resoundingly prove this. Their tireless efforts resulted in the declaration of a conservation reserve in Peru. 



"Plants are often ignored or outright taken for granted when we think about wildlife conservation, which is unfortunate as every single aspect of our lives depends on them," said Oliver Whaley, Honorary Research Associate at RBG Kew.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiring-people-to-take-action">Inspiring people to take action</h2>



"The planet is in serious trouble and with botanical sciences facing a precipitous decline just when we need it most, we have to think of new ways in which we can inspire people to take action."



"Our study shows that through an exciting and multidisciplinary collaboration, today's extreme sports enthusiasts can work alongside scientists to help monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-fairy-lantern-plant-thismia-malayana-fungus-parasite/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>, and with some basic training, gather crucial environmental data, protect species and aid conservation efforts. 



"By engaging local and international adventurers in our scientific work, we're not only empowering them to take nature-positive action, but helping to safeguard our amazing planet - our Pachamama!"



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="rjHWXssJ8r-3884348-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-plants-from-the-air">Exploring plants from the air</h2>



Dr Justin Moat, senior research leader at <a href="https://www.kew.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RBG Kew</a> and <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/national-geographic-explorers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Geographic Explorer</a> said this study was a unique and exciting experience for everyone involved.



"For many years we have attempted to reach some suspected large areas of endemic vegetation in the Peruvian desert, but found it very difficult to access without major damage to the desert surface using 4x4s, due to the harsh desert conditions and soft shifting sands," said Dr. Moat.



"To overcome this challenge, we would have had to mount a major expedition, probably lasting weeks. Meanwhile, the paramotorists had flown great distances and returned with plant specimens and aerial photographic evidence of the vegetation within the space of two hours."



Bringing in the muscle for this innovative conservation effort was Forest Air, an international non-profit organization. Their sturdy paramotor pilots volunteered their skills and time for the challenging, yet rewarding, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-ancient-plant-farming-found-in-east-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation projects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-botanical-science-and-plant-conservation">Botanical science and plant conservation </h2>



The experts hope that their innovative approach will ignite interest in botanical science and conservation efforts. Now, here's a thought - what can we do as individuals to contribute to these efforts too?



As the saying goes, 'Change starts at home.' So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work. Your own backyard might be the starting point of the next big plant discovery or conservation effort. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accessing-remote-areas">Accessing remote areas </h2>



Understanding the mechanics behind paramotoring is essential to grasp its role in conservation efforts. A paramotor, often tethered to a pilot's back, combines a paraglider wing with a lightweight motor, granting the capacity to soar effortlessly and silently above diverse landscapes. 



This ingenious technology, leveraging simplicity and efficiency, allows scientists and conservationists intimate access to otherwise unreachable terrains without disturbing the delicate ecosystems below. 



Its low fuel consumption not only epitomizes sustainability but also reveals a fascinating convergence of aerodynamics and ecological science creatively applied to field research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paramotoring-for-plant-conservation">Paramotoring for plant conservation </h2>



The success of this research project paves the way for future advancements in plant exploration and conservation. By integrating cutting-edge technology like paramotoring with robust scientific inquiry, the horizon promises groundbreaking discoveries, crucial for protecting our plant biodiversity.



The constant evolution of tools and methods highlights the adaptability of scientific fields in response to ever-present <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-pandemic-looms-as-pathogens-move-from-wild-plants-to-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental challenges</a>. 



Already, these efforts hint at a paradigm shift where traditional fieldwork methods are paired with innovative technology.



As academic interest and public support grow, such dynamic projects will likely become cornerstones of sustainability endeavors worldwide.



The research is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10571" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants, People, Planet</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Extreme botany: How paramotoring assists in plant conservation

Scientists recently used paramotoring to uncover new plant species and...

A new study sheds light on the birthplace of asteroid Ryugu, which is now believed to have formed near Jupiter.&nbsp;Previous studies suggested that the asteroid originated beyond the orbit of Saturn. 



The return of samples from Ryugu to Earth by the space probe Hayabusa 2 in 2020 set the stage for a new wave of research. 



Since then, the samples have journeyed through research facilities around the globe. The tiny, jet-black grains have undergone a variety of tests such as weight measurement, chemical analysis, and exposure to infrared, X-ray, and synchrotron radiation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-origins-of-ryugu">Tracing the origins of Ryugu</h2>



At the <a href="https://www.mps.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research</a> (MPS), one method of analysis proved to be particularly useful. The experts tested the ratios of certain metal isotopes present in the samples.



Isotopes function as distinct signatures of elements, with variants differing only in the number of neutrons contained in their nucleus. 



This meticulous study of isotopes has been instrumental in tracing the origins of Ryugu back in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-objects-spotted-in-the-outer-solar-system-beyond-pluto/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar System</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ryugu-s-journey-through-the-solar-system">Ryugu's journey through the solar system</h2>



Ryugu, an intriguing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-samples-could-reveal-how-earth-was-formed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">near-Earth asteroid</a>, is not originally from the inner Solar System but is believed to have traveled there from the asteroid belt between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-and-jupiter-will-have-a-close-encounter-in-the-sky-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars and Jupiter</a>. 



Some scientists suggest its birthplace might even be farther away, beyond Jupiter's orbit.



To decipher Ryugu's ancient family ties, researchers compared its characteristics with meteorites - the terrestrial breadcrumb trail left by asteroids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-composition-of-ryugu">Unique composition of Ryugu</h2>



Detailed studies of Ryugu's composition have unveiled quite a surprise. While Ryugu matches the carbon-rich structure of the expected carbonaceous chondrites, it belongs to a rare group known as CI chondrites or Ivuna-type <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-ryugu-may-be-a-leftover-from-the-suns-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chondrites</a>.



Only nine of these exotic specimens have been discovered to date, and they are thought to contain particularly pristine material formed at the outermost edge of the Solar System.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-origins-of-ryugu">Rethinking the origins of Ryugu</h2>



Previously, scientists believed that the specific isotopic composition of CI chondrites suggested their birthplace was beyond Saturn's orbit, but the new analyses challenge this assumption.



The researchers' recalculation suggests that a missing fourth component - tiny iron-nickel grains - must have played a part in Ryugu's formation, leading to a drastic re-evaluation of its origins.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-ci-chondrites">The birth of CI chondrites</h2>



The proposed theory suggests that a process of gas evaporation, influenced by the Sun, led to an accumulation of dust and iron-nickel grains outside of Jupiter's orbit, giving birth to the CI chondrites. 



This would place their formation around two million years after that of the Solar System. The new results have shocked even the researchers themselves.



"The results surprised us very much. We had to completely rethink - not only with regard to Ryugu, but also with regard to the entire group of CI chondrites," said study co-author Dr. Christoph Burkhard.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-history-of-the-solar-system">Formation history of the Solar System </h2>



The findings reframe the CI chondrites not as distant relatives of the other carbonaceous chondrites, but rather as younger siblings that formed through a different process and later in time.



The ongoing exploration of Ryugu and its samples will continue to provide new insights into the formation of our Solar System.



“The current study shows how crucial laboratory investigations can be in deciphering the formation history of our Solar System,” said Dr. Thorsten Kleine, Director of the Department of Planetary Sciences at MPS.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-missions-to-sample-asteroids">Future missions to sample asteroids</h2>



As the analysis of Ryugu’s samples continues to unfold, researchers are eagerly anticipating what further secrets the asteroid may hold. 



Beyond understanding Ryugu’s birthplace, the findings could have broader implications for future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spacex-sending-four-civilians-dangerous-private-space-mission-polaris-dawn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space missions</a>.



With more space agencies turning their attention to asteroid mining and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary defense</a>, Ryugu’s composition and journey through the Solar System offer a valuable case study. 



Future missions could target similar asteroids, seeking to unlock more about the building blocks of planets and the potential for harnessing these celestial bodies for resources.



Moreover, Ryugu’s successful sample return mission sets a precedent for future exploratory missions that will collect, study, and perhaps even manipulate celestial material. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp2426" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Asteroid Ryugu has unexpected 'family ties' near Jupiter

A new study sheds light on the birthplace of asteroid...

Mount Everest is between 15 to 50 meters taller than it would be without the uplift caused by a nearby eroding river gorge, and it continues to grow as a result. This is the conclusion of a recent study led by a team of researchers from University College London (UCL).



The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-024-01535-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>, reveals that erosion from a river network located approximately 75 kilometers from Mount Everest has carved away a significant gorge - causing the mountain to rise by up to two millimeters per year.&nbsp;



This process has already added between 15 and 50 meters to Everest's height over the last 89,000 years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tallest-peak-grows-even-taller">Tallest peak grows even taller</h2>



Mount Everest, which stands at 8,849 meters, is the highest mountain on Earth and rises about 250 meters above the next tallest peak in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/himalayan-glaciers-retreating-threat-is-much-worse-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Himalayas</a>.&nbsp;



This elevation is considered unusually high for the range, especially when compared to the next tallest peaks - K2, Kangchenjunga, and Lhotse - which differ by only about 120 meters.



Part of this anomaly is attributed to a process known as isostatic rebound. This occurs when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolution-and-biodiversity-is-shaped-by-river-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">erosion</a> reduces the mass of the Earth's crust in an area, causing the underlying mantle's pressure to push upwards, as the downward force of gravity is reduced.&nbsp;



This gradual uplift happens at a rate of a few millimeters per year, but over long periods of time, it can significantly alter the landscape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mount-everest-springs-upwards-nbsp">Mount Everest springs upwards&nbsp;</h2>



The experts determined that Everest's height increase began approximately 89,000 years ago when the Arun River merged with the Kosi river network.&nbsp;



“Mount Everest is a remarkable mountain of myth and legend and it’s still growing. Our research shows that as the nearby river system cuts deeper, the loss of material is causing the mountain to spring further upwards,” said co-author Adam Smith, a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unsteady-river-alters-mount-everest-s-height-nbsp">Unsteady river alters Mount Everest's height&nbsp;</h2>



Currently, the Arun River runs east of Everest, joining with the Kosi River downstream. Over time, it has carved out a deep gorge, washing away billions of tons of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-system-chaos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediment</a> and contributing to the ongoing uplift of the region.



“An interesting river system exists in the Everest region,” said co-author Jin-Gen Dai of the China University of Geosciences.



“The upstream Arun river flows east at high altitude with a flat valley. It then abruptly turns south as the Kosi river, dropping in elevation and becoming steeper. This unique topography, indicative of an unsteady state, likely relates to Everest's extreme height.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neighboring-peaks-are-also-growing">Neighboring peaks are also growing</h2>



The uplift caused by isostatic rebound affects not only Mount Everest but also neighboring peaks, including Lhotse and Makalu, the fourth and fifth tallest peaks in the world.&nbsp;



The process elevates all of these mountains by a similar amount, with Makalu, being closer to the Arun River, experiencing slightly faster uplift.



“Mount Everest and its neighboring peaks are growing because the isostatic rebound is raising them up faster than erosion is wearing them down," said co-author Matthew Fox, an earth scientist at UCL.



"We can see them growing by about two millimeters a year using GPS instruments, and now we have a better understanding of what’s driving it.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-rivers-accelerated-the-uplift">Merging rivers accelerated the uplift</h2>



By studying the erosion rates of the Arun, Kosi, and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-disrupting-the-seasonal-flow-of-rivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a> in the area, the researchers determined that the Arun River merged with the Kosi river network 89,000 years ago in a process known as drainage piracy.&nbsp;



This increased the water flow through the Kosi, amplifying its erosive power and washing away more of the surrounding landscape. This erosion accelerated the rate of uplift, pushing the mountains even higher.



“The changing height of Mount Everest really highlights the dynamic nature of the Earth’s surface,” said study lead author Xu Han of the China University of Geosciences, who conducted the research while visiting UCL on a China Scholarship Council fellowship.



“The interaction between the erosion of the Arun river and the upward pressure of the Earth’s mantle gives Mount Everest a boost, pushing it up higher than it would otherwise be.”



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

What is making Mount Everest grow taller?

Mount Everest is between 15 to 50 meters taller than...

Exposure to certain pollutants, such as fine particles (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), during pregnancy and childhood has been linked to alterations in the microstructure of the brain's white matter.&nbsp;



Some of these effects persist into adolescence, according to a new study led by the <a href="https://www.isglobal.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona Institute for Global Health</a> (ISGlobal). 



White matter is an essential brain structure responsible for connecting different brain regions. The findings highlight the urgent need to address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> as a public health concern, particularly for pregnant women and children.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-brain-development">Air pollution and brain development</h2>



There is mounting evidence suggesting that air pollution negatively impacts neurodevelopment in children.&nbsp;



While earlier research using imaging techniques has explored how air pollutants affect white matter, these studies were limited to snapshots at a single timepoint. They also failed to track participants over the course of childhood.



“Following participants throughout childhood and including two neuroimaging assessments for each child would shed new light on whether the effects of air pollution on white matter persist, attenuate, or worsen,” explained study senior author Mònica Guxens. This is precisely what her team set out to investigate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-childhood-exposure-to-various-pollutants-nbsp">Childhood exposure to various pollutants&nbsp;</h2>



The study examined over 4,000 children who had been followed from birth as part of the Generation R Study in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.&nbsp;



The research team estimated the children's exposure to 14 different air pollutants during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnancy-may-speed-up-aging-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a> and childhood based on where their families lived. 



For 1,314 of these children, the researchers were able to analyze data from two brain scans - one at around age 10 and the other at age 14 - to assess changes in the microstructure of white matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-white-matter-development-nbsp">Changes in white matter development&nbsp;</h2>



The analysis revealed that exposure to pollutants like fine particles (PM2.5) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-nitrogen-oxide-pollution-could-boost-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrogen oxides</a> (NOx) was associated with differences in white matter development. 



Specifically, higher exposure to PM2.5 during pregnancy, and to PM2.5, PM10, PM2.5-10, and NOx during childhood, correlated with lower levels of fractional anisotropy (FA) - a measure of how water molecules diffuse within the brain.&nbsp;



In more developed brains, water flows more in one direction, leading to higher fractional anisotropy values. The study found that this impact persisted into adolescence, with evidence of long-term effects on brain development.&nbsp;



Each increase in air pollution exposure corresponded to a developmental delay in fractional anisotropy equivalent to over five months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-small-particles-reaching-the-brain">Are small particles reaching the brain?</h2>



“We think that the lower fractional anisotropy is likely the result of changes in myelin, the protective sheath that forms around nerves, rather than changes in the structure or packaging of the nerve fibers,” said lead author Michelle Kusters, a researcher at ISGlobal.&nbsp;



The exact mechanism by which air pollutants affect myelin remains unclear, but it may involve small particles reaching the brain or inflammatory responses triggered by particles entering the lungs.&nbsp;



This process could lead to neuroinflammation, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-green-space-reduces-oxidative-stress-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxidative stress</a>, and, ultimately, neuronal death, as seen in animal studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-impacts-on-white-matter">Additional impacts on white matter</h2>



The experts also discovered that some pollutants influenced another measure of white matter, called mean diffusivity (MD), which typically decreases as the brain matures.&nbsp;



Higher exposure to pollutants like silicon in fine particles (PM2.5) during pregnancy was associated with initially higher mean diffusivity, which then decreased more rapidly as the children aged. This suggests that certain effects of air pollution may lessen over time.



“Even if the size of the effects were small, this can have a meaningful impact on a population scale,” Guxens said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stricter-pollution-guidelines-are-needed">Stricter pollution guidelines are needed</h2>



The researchers also found that these effects occurred at levels of PM2.5 and PM10 above the World Health Organization's recommended limits but below those currently allowed by the European Union.&nbsp;



“Our study provides support to the need for more stringent European guidelines on air pollution, which are expected to be approved soon by the European Parliament,” Guxens added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lasting-changes-in-white-matter">Lasting changes in white matter</h2>



In a previous study, Guxens and her team demonstrated that white matter microstructure could also be affected by early exposure to heat and cold, particularly among children living in lower-income neighborhoods.



“Even though we found an attenuation of the initial association between air pollution and higher MD in early adolescence, residential outdoor air pollution exposure during pregnancy and childhood was also associated with lasting changes in white matter microstructure across adolescence,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Each increase in exposure to air pollution corresponded to more than a 5-month delay in the development of fractional anisotropy, noted the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2024.119828" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research</a>. 



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Air pollution impacts brain development in children

Exposure to certain pollutants, such as fine particles (PM2.5) and...

In our modern world, the sight of forest fires, and their devastating impacts, is becoming all too common, a stark contrast to the past. We're not just talking about an uptick in the number and frequency of these occurrences, but also their intensity and the severity of the burn. 



There's been a significant upward trend, particularly in places like the western United States and the eastern side of Spain, where fire events have come close to doubling or tripling in size in the recent past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-forest-fires-leave-behind">What do forest fires leave behind?</h2>



We know how damaging forest fires can be, their effects aren't just limited to the destroyed vegetation and the loss of habitats. 



Our focus here, however, is on a specific aftermath that has received lesser attention -- the increased exposure of land brought upon by these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/droughts-and-fires-diminish-forests-carbon-storage-ability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires</a>. But what does this exposure mean for our planet’s climate?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-satellite-data-and-forest-fires">Satellite data and forest fires</h2>



Chao Yue, along with his team of dedicated researchers, decided to tackle this question by analyzing satellite data. 



They took a deep dive into more than a decade worth of data (from 2003 to 2016) involving wildfire events across northern temperate and boreal forests (from 40° N to 70° N). 



What they discovered has implications for how we view the link between forest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-the-recovery-of-the-ozone-layer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires</a> and global warming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-impact-of-forest-fires">Unseen impact of forest fires</h2>



After a year following a fire event, the surface starts to warm up, a finding consistent with previous research. 



However, Yue and his team went a step further and developed a mathematical model to show fire sizes successfully amplified surface warming in North America and eastern boreal Asia. 



This discovery was a game-changer, unearthing an aspect of surface warming that had previously been hiding in plain sight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reflectivity-and-evapotranspiration">Reflectivity and evapotranspiration</h2>



The team found decreased evapotranspiration and surface reflectivity a year after the fires, with larger fires leading to greater decreases. 



This means, the surface, now devoid of much of its vegetation and exposed to incoming radiation, was <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-season-of-2023-redefined-what-is-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">getting warmer</a>, making the planet a tad hotter than before. 



However, this was not the case in certain regions, like western, central, and southeastern Siberia and eastern Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deciduous-broadleaf-trees">Deciduous broadleaf trees</h2>



There's a reason why these regions weren't experiencing the same surface warming effects. They predominantly house mixed forests or forests filled with deciduous broadleaf trees. 



These trees, the authors speculate, may be moderating fire vulnerability, and could be pivotal in our future fire mitigation strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-solution-a-leafier-future">Potential solution: A leafier future?</h2>



Could planting more broadleaf trees be the answer to combating post-fire surface warming? The concept does offer a potential solution. 



Yet, it's not without its challenges and needs more research to determine just how effective broadleaf trees might be in suppressing surface warming in forests across Eurasia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carbon-dynamics-and-forest-fires">Carbon dynamics and forest fires</h2>



The relationship between forest fires and carbon dynamics presents another intricate layer of their impact on climate. 



As forests burn, they release vast amounts of stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, exacerbating greenhouse gas concentrations and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-people-attribute-extreme-heat-and-wildfires-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contributing to global warming</a>. 



However, the role of regrowth in carbon sequestration following a fire is equally significant.



When forests regenerate, they can reabsorb some of the carbon released during the burning, potentially mitigating these emissions over time. 



Yet, the pattern of regrowth is highly variable and depends on factors like fire intensity, frequency, and forest type.



Understanding this balance is crucial, as future forest management and reforestation strategies could greatly benefit from insights into optimizing carbon recapture capabilities of post-fire landscapes.



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



The findings of Chao Yue and his research team open up a myriad of opportunities for further exploration and the refinement of strategies to combat climate change. 



Future research could delve deeper into the efficacy of increasing broadleaf tree populations, assessing their true potential in mitigating post-fire surface warming. 



Simultaneously, policy-makers are being urged to consider these insights as they formulate wildfire management strategies and climate action plans.



Integrating this knowledge into environmental policies could not only help in reducing the adverse impacts of forest fires but also enhance our approach to sustainable forestry and land management. 



Moreover, it underscores the importance of developing international collaborations to address this global challenge, ensuring the deployment of informed and effective solutions on a larger scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-forest-fires">Impact of forest fires</h2>



The relationship between forest fires and climate change is complex and multifaceted. As we unravel more about this interplay, we're left with more questions than answers. 



Fire mitigation measures and future climate projections need to take into account these newly discovered dynamics. 



If there’s a lesson to be learnt here, it’s that the after-effects of forest fires can be as significant as the fires themselves. This becomes not just an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-day-of-forests-2024-new-solutions-for-a-better-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental issue</a> but a global one that affects us all.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07918-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Intense forest fires leave scorched earth, heating the planet faster

In our modern world, the sight of forest fires, and...

Spaceship,Approaching,Asteroid,,Dwarf,Planet,Mission,,Deep,Space,Exploration,(3d

"Space, the final frontier," is a sentiment that has been echoed for generations, ever since we first set our sights on exploring the universe. With the help of the scientists at the University of Southampton, a new technology that uses metal-fueled thrusters could take spacecraft further than we've ever imagined.



The research team is currently putting this new rocket propulsion system through rigorous trials, developing a thruster fueled by metals that promises to push the boundaries of human exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metal-fueled-journey-among-stars">Metal fueled journey among stars</h2>



This innovative propulsion system boasts the power to propel spacecraft using any type of metal as a fuel source. Hard to believe, yet completely true.



The ramifications are fascinating. If a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-spacecraft-team-accomplishes-tricky-thruster-swap-from-15-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spacecraft</a> is fitted with this kind of system, theoretically, it could fly without pause. 



How? By simply refueling from the abundance of minerals that are just waiting to be harvested from asteroids or distant moons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mining-metals-for-fuel-in-space">Mining metals for fuel in space</h2>



Asteroids and moons are packed with valuable metals and minerals that we could use on Earth or for space exploration. 



These cosmic bodies are home to precious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psyche-asteroid-is-worth-10000-quadrillion-and-nasa-is-sending-a-space-probe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metals like platinum, gold, and silver</a>, which are rare and expensive to mine here on our planet. 



Platinum group metals are especially in demand because they're used in electronics, catalysts, and even renewable energy tech. 



Plus, many asteroids have plenty of iron and nickel, opening up possibilities for large-scale space manufacturing and construction.



The presence of silicate minerals like olivine and pyroxene in these space rocks could also come in handy for fueling spacecraft that use this new propulsion system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metal-fueled-space-travel">Metal-fueled space travel</h2>



Dr. Minkwan Kim from the <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a>, the lead scientist on the project, is in charge of testing the propulsion system in the lab, calculating its thrust. 



His sights are set on the farthest regions of space, ones we previously thought were unreachable. The limitations of traditional fuel are no small hurdle.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/draco-mission-spacecraft-is-built-for-spectacular-destruction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spacecraft</a> have limited amounts of fuel because of the enormous cost and energy it takes to launch them into space. But these new thrusters are capable of being powered by any metal that can burn, such as iron, aluminum or copper," Dr. Kim explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-space-odyssey">New space odyssey</h2>



Imagine a future where spacecraft can land on a moon or comet, rich in these burnable metals, and extract what they need to refuel. 



It's a vision that can rewrite our understanding of space, tearing down frontiers and expanding our knowledge of the universe.



At present, once <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sentinel-2c-satellite-delivers-first-breathtaking-images-of-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spacecraft</a> are launched and get past Earth's atmosphere, they are mostly powered by rare gas phase fuels like krypton or xenon. One example of spacecraft using these types of fuels are the <a href="https://www.starlink.com/us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Starlink satellites</a>.



The scientists are collaborating with British space firm Magdrive on the development of this game-changing propulsion system, dubbed the <a href="https://www.magdrive.space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Magdrive</a>. 



It's an exciting step forward, and one that promises to have far-reaching effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-metal-fueled-thruster">Beyond metal fueled thruster</h2>



Dr. Kim, whose commendable career includes the creation of a plasma thruster design for the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, is on an ambitious mission. 



He envisions this technology being utilized for future deep-space missions, quite possibly revolutionizing our approach towards space exploration.



"This system," Dr. Kim mentioned, "could help us explore new planets, seek out new life, and go where no human has gone before -- enabling never-ending discovery."



This might be the beginning of a new era of exploration, marking a shift in the way we aim to understand our universe, and maybe even our place in it.



The possibilities this revolutionary propulsion system presents are limitless. A future where space travel isn't restricted by the limited availability of fuel. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-fiction-vs-reality">Science fiction vs reality</h2>



Science fiction has long imagined a future where humanity explores the stars using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/take-a-glimpse-at-our-planets-new-ai-satellite-phsat2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced technologies</a>. 



At the University of Southampton, projects like the Super Magdrive system are making this vision a possible reality. 



Science fiction greatly influences scientific progress, inspiring scientists and engineers to dream big and explore new possibilities.



As we approach this new era of space exploration, society should embrace the challenges and opportunities it brings, bringing us closer to our greatest interstellar adventures.



Could a metal fueled thruster be the next big leap in our space odyssey? As we strap in and set our sights on a future filled with celestial possibilities, all we can do is wait and see.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Spaceship thruster technology fueled by any type of metal could fly 'indefinitely'

"Space, the final frontier," is a sentiment that has been...

Antarctica, our planet's largest ice mass, holds the potential to drastically alter the global sea level. But how much can we expect it to rise? It's one of the most challenging aspects of climate science to answer. 



The Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS), along with the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the Southern Ocean, add a layer of uncertainty to this critical question.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctic-ice-mystery">Antarctic ice mystery</h2>



The good news? Scientists and researchers from Australia, the United States, and Canada are diligently working to reduce this uncertainty. What's their strategy? Well, they're focused on understanding the AIS's future behavior and how it influences sea-level rise projections.



The findings, currently accessible at the Australian Antarctic Data Centre, aim to guide research that can assist policymakers, decision-makers, and communities to plan and adapt in an ever-changing world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources-of-uncertainty">Sources of uncertainty</h2>



Under the leadership of Dr. Ben Galton-Fenzi, a glaciologist at the <a href="https://www.antarctica.gov.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Antarctic Division</a>, the research team explored the significant processes and potential feedbacks that could speed up AIS retreat.



"We examined how Antarctica will contribute to sea-level change in the coming decades to centuries and where the uncertainties lie that make it difficult to project future behavior of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a>," explained Dr. Galton-Fenzi.



"Then we looked at what processes and regions should be the focus of future scientific research to reduce these uncertainties."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-sea-level-rise-from-antarctica">Potential sea level rise from Antarctica</h2>



If the AIS were to melt entirely, it could lead to a staggering 58 meters of global sea-level rise. The East Antarctic Ice Sheet alone, which covers two-thirds of the continent, would account for about 52 meters of that rise. The rest would come from the West Antarctic Ice Sheet and the Antarctic Peninsula.



However, the AIS's behavior is not as straightforward as it may seem. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomsday-glacier-may-collapse-sooner-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a> grows due to snowfall that compresses into ice, and shrinks due to iceberg calving and melting from beneath the ice shelves.



Yet, the complex interactions, feedback mechanisms, and ice movements involved in these processes often make it hard to predict the behavior of the Ice Sheet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-models-and-data">Climate models and data</h2>



Another factor contributing to this uncertainty is the limitation of current climate and ice sheet models in simulating these physical processes and feedback mechanisms.



Furthermore, there is a lack of data that captures physical processes on the correct time and spatial scales.



"When the Antarctic Ice Sheet loses mass from ice melting into the ocean, it weakens the gravitational pull of the continent, causing the sea level to drop close to the continent, but rise in more distant locations," said Dr. Galton-Fenzi, further explaining the less-known aspects of sea-level rise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-the-uncertainties">Reducing the uncertainties </h2>



So what's our best course of action in this scientific quest? The researchers identified several priority areas, such as carrying out high-resolution measurements focused on regions particularly susceptible to rapid change. 



These observations will enhance our understanding of the physical processes impacting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-will-the-antarctic-ice-sheet-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice sheet</a>.



A better understanding of these processes will improve models and analytical tools, thereby refining projections of sea-level rise and helping inform effective policy decisions.



"By reducing the uncertainties associated with the Antarctic Ice Sheet and sea-level rise, we'll give policymakers and decision-makers better information to develop coastal planning measures, resilient infrastructure, and adaption strategies," said Dr. Galton-Fenzi.



He advocates for interdisciplinary and international collaboration, particularly in regions where the East Antarctic Ice Sheet may retreat rapidly. This collaboration, according to Dr. Galton-Fenzi, will enhance research quality and speed up progress in reducing the level of uncertainty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-in-antarctic-ice-research">Innovations in Antarctic ice research</h2>



Technological advancements are playing a crucial role in Antarctic research, helping scientists gather more accurate and detailed information than ever before. 



With cutting-edge satellite technology, we can now see high-resolution images of the ice sheet, tracking its thickness, movement, and melting patterns. 



Plus, tools like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) allow researchers to explore hard-to-reach areas, like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ice-loss-may-have-reached-an-irreversible-tipping-point/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underside of ice shelves</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-future-changes">Predicting future changes</h2>



Technological innovations not only help us monitor the current condition of Antarctica, but also enhance our ability to predict future changes by offering real-time data and insights into the forces affecting the ice sheet.



Understanding the future behavior of the AIS holds significant implications for our global sea level and, consequently, our lives.



By minimizing the uncertainties surrounding this colossal ice mass, we can equip ourselves better to adapt and plan in this changing world.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://data.aad.gov.au/metadata/ACP_IceSheetSeaLevel_Outlook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Antarctic Data Centre.</a>



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

How much will Antarctica contribute to sea level rise?

Antarctica, our planet's largest ice mass, holds the potential to...

Have you ever crossed paths with someone who exhausts their energy during the week and leaves all the fitness goals for the weekend? These folks are widely acknowledged as "weekend warriors." 



A new study led by a team at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) suggests that these weekend workouts might be paying off in a big way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invasion-of-the-weekend-warriors">Invasion of the weekend warriors</h2>



For the majority of us, keeping up with a regular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/metamorphosis-exercise-triggers-molecular-changes-in-major-organs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">workout schedule</a> during the weekdays can be a herculean task. That's where the weekend warriors come in, condensing all their exercise into a day or two each week. 



According to a research study conducted under the expert guidance of <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MGH</a>, this pattern of concentrated physical activity can be just as beneficial for reducing disease risks as a more spread out workout regime.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-miracles-of-physical-movement">Miracles of physical movement</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-exercise-can-make-belly-fat-healthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magic of physical movement</a> and its impact on our well-being is no secret. 



Study co-senior author Dr. Shaan Khurshid is a faculty member in the Demoulas Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias at Massachusetts General Hospital.



"Physical activity is known to affect risk of many diseases," said Dr. Khurshid.



"Here, we show the potential benefits of weekend warrior activity for risk not only of cardiovascular diseases, as we've shown in the past, but also future diseases spanning the whole spectrum, ranging from conditions like chronic kidney disease to mood disorders and beyond."



The universal recommendation is to clock in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise every week for overall health. Now, an intriguing question arises - does it really matter how these 150 minutes are divided throughout our weekly schedule?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weekend-warriors-vs-regular-exercisers">Weekend warriors vs. regular exercisers</h2>



The research team also included co-senior author Dr. Patrick Ellinor, the acting chief of Cardiology and the co-director of the Corrigan Minehan Heart Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.



The experts investigated the fitness patterns of 89,573 individuals. Based on the data logged from wrist accelerometers, participants were categorized into three sectors: weekend warriors, regular exercisers, and the inactive.



The results? Quite surprising, to say the least! Both the weekend warriors and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evening-workouts-are-best-for-blood-sugar-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regularly active</a> exhibited significantly lower risks of more than 200 diseases in comparison to their inactive counterparts. 



This included not only robust links with cardiometabolic conditions like hypertension and diabetes but also an array of other disease categories.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissecting-exercise-patterns">Dissecting exercise patterns</h2>



The research team further investigated the nuances between weekend warriors and regular exercisers, exploring the intensity and duration of their activities. 



While both parties achieved the recommended 150 minutes per week, weekend warriors leaned towards longer, intense sessions while regular exercisers displayed a more balanced distribution. 



Interestingly, this research points to unique benefits that weekend warriors might reap such as enhanced metabolic efficiency and improved endurance. 



However, the sudden intensity can pose injury risks, flagging the need for meticulous exercise planning and progression.



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



The insights from this study stretch beyond individual exercise habits and pave the way for public health recommendations. 



The revelation that weekend warrior activities can match up to regular exercise routines might steer more people towards physical activity without the rigid confines of a strict weekly schedule. 



Moreover, this flexibility can reduce the burden of daily routines for those with packed lifestyles, leading to a potentially more active population. 



It is crucial to extend these studies across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daylight-saving-time-disrupts-diet-and-exercise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diverse groups</a> and understand the long-standing impacts, but these preliminary findings are definitely encouraging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-total-volume-of-activity">Total volume of activity</h2>



"Because there appears to be similar benefits for weekend warrior versus regular activity, it may be the total volume of activity, rather than the pattern, that matters most," said Dr. Khurshid.



"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ai-artificial-intelligence-changing-health-diet-fitness-exercise-approach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future interventions</a> testing the effectiveness of concentrated activity to improve public health are warranted, and patients should be encouraged to engage in guideline-adherent physical activity using any pattern that may work best for them."



As this study reveals, whether you choose to pack your exercise into the weekend, or spread it out through the week, the key is merely to keep moving. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.068669" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Circulation</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

'Weekend warrior' workouts lower the risk of 200 diseases

Have you ever crossed paths with someone who exhausts their...

The International Space Station (ISS) is set to advance Earth monitoring and environmental research. An ISS National Laboratory®-sponsored payload, hosted on the Airbus-developed platform Bartolomeo, will expand access to the space station’s unparalleled vantage point.



This innovation will enhance Earth observation and provide unprecedented research opportunities, providing a deeper understanding of our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-observation-with-bartolomeo">Earth observation with Bartolomeo</h2>



“Airbus is improving our ability to observe and understand our planet as well as democratizing access to space by accommodating more research and technology demonstrations on the ISS than ever before,” said Debra Facktor, head of U.S. Space Systems for Airbus.



"Our ArgUS platform on Bartolomeo will accommodate smaller payloads with the same power, data regulation, and monitoring as larger projects.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-global-monitoring-with-bartolomeo">Advancing global monitoring with Bartolomeo</h2>



Bartolomeo offers an array of mission services, including technical support, operations, and data transfer from Earth.



 Taking advantage of the European Columbus Module's unobstructed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronaut-perspective-earth-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth view</a>, multiple missions related to Earth observation, robotics, materials science, and astrophysics are enabled.



The platform’s new ArgUS Multi-Payload Adapter supports smaller payloads within a standard Bartolomeo slot, allowing multiple experiments to co-exist.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-co-working-space">Cosmic co-working space</h2>



"ArgUS is essentially a cosmic co-working space, where diverse experiments perform side by side," said Facktor.



Operations for the first payloads utilizing the ArgUS adaptation are already underway. Among them is Sen’s SpaceTV-1, a new 4K camera system that will provide real-time video of Earth and the ISS.



“We hope that our imagery will provide valuable and timely insights into environmental events, and we invite environmental agencies interested in working with our data to contact us," said Charles Black, founder and CEO of Sen.



"We want to ensure that our data is used to help people affected by environmental events."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-new-frontiers-with-argus">Exploring new frontiers with ArgUS</h2>



BAE Systems is also utilizing ArgUS to test new hardware and software for Earth observation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-data-could-revolutionize-weather-forecasts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather monitoring</a>. 



These experiments could provide crucial insights into climate change, natural disasters, and even assist future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/contact-lost-with-chandrayaan-3-placing-the-moon-mission-in-jeopardy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar missions</a>. 



“Our goal is to take concrete steps toward improving our Earth observation and data processing capabilities and to exhibit our ability to rapidly develop these technologies at low costs,” said Steve Smith, vice president of the engineering, science, and analysis unit for BAE Systems Space &amp; Mission Systems.



The payload features a next-generation radio frequency receiver conducting passive atmospheric sounding and a short-wavelength infrared camera that enhances low-cost environmental monitoring capabilities. 



BAE Systems will also provide in-orbit data processing through its Linux-based software, marking significant advancements in space-based environmental monitoring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-earth-observations-with-bartolomeo">Improving Earth observations with Bartolomeo</h2>



Facktor noted that Bartolomeo not only offers high data downlink rates, allowing researchers to receive critical data quickly, but also lowers the barrier to entry for space missions.



Researchers, institutions, and private organizations can now affordably access low Earth orbit, further enhancing scientific research results due to Bartolomeo's high data downlink rate.



Airbus’s collaboration with the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a> through the Bartolomeo platform represents a significant step forward in advancing environmental monitoring and research capabilities from space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-key-environmental-issues">Insights into key environmental issues </h2>



The platform’s real-time data collection capabilities provide researchers with detailed and critical insights into key environmental issues, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-patterns-influence-coral-bleaching-on-the-great-barrier-reef/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a>, natural disasters, and ongoing ecological changes. 



By supporting a wide variety of compact payloads, such as the ArgUS Multi-Payload Adapter, Bartolomeo enables an expanded range of experiments and promotes deeper, more effective study of Earth’s complex systems across multiple scientific fields.



This continuous stream of high-quality data will play a crucial role in guiding global efforts related to disaster response, environmental conservation, and the creation of more effective sustainable solutions, while shaping future research directions and policy decisions aimed at protecting our planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bartolomeo-opportunities-for-earth-innovation">Bartolomeo opportunities for Earth innovation</h2>



The Bartolomeo platform is driving innovation by creating new opportunities for diverse scientific research and technological development. 



With its adaptable design, Bartolomeo accommodates a variety of payloads, from environmental monitoring tools to advanced robotics and materials science experiments. 



This flexibility allows researchers to test cutting-edge <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-cold-atom-lab-is-revolutionizing-quantum-science-in-space-iss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technologies in space</a>, accelerating the development of solutions that can be applied both in orbit and on Earth.



By enabling these advancements, the platform not only supports ongoing research but also opens the door to future discoveries that could reshape industries and improve global sustainability efforts.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Earth observation technology will transform climate monitoring

The International Space Station (ISS) is set to advance Earth...

Something absolutely fascinating is headed our way. For the first time in 80,000 years, the comet C/2023 A3 -- also known as Tsuchinshan-ATLAS -- is making its grand return to our skies.



The last individuals to witness this celestial spectacle were our ancestors who first ventured out of Africa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-return-of-comet-c-2023-a3">Return of comet C/2023 A3</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-comets-hidden-near-earth-ice-giants-can-be-both-friend-and-foe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet</a>, appearing as a faint, star-like smudge trailed by a hazy tail, should be visible just before dawn on four consecutive mornings - from Friday to Monday.



It's important to note that comet C/2023 A3 was only discovered last year, yet scientists have determined that it visited our planet around 80,000 years ago. This estimate is based on its elliptical trajectory.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bend-in-the-comet-s-tail">Bend in the comet's tail</h2>



Matthew Dominick, a NASA astronaut currently aboard the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Space Station</a>, shared a captivating video of the comet, giving us a unique perspective. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="pYWhSsLU5F-3876702-12187" type="single"]</div>



"The comet tail is noticeably longer each day. Pause the video at about 15 seconds...you can see the tail of the comet looks like it is bending," noted Dominick.



"The atmosphere is more dense the&nbsp;closer you get to Earth. Changes in the density of the atmosphere change the refractive index and thus make the comet tail appear bent."



"I was in my crew quarters reviewing the imagery when I first saw the bend in the comet’s tail. I did not see it real time when taking the images."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closest-approach-to-the-sun">Closest approach to the sun</h2>



Comet C/2023 A3 will make it closest approach to the sun on September 27. The comet will then spin around the sun and head back toward Earth. 



"If this comet survives its passage by the sun, and if the amount of gas and dust it gives off does not decrease significantly, this might be one of the best comets in a long time,"&nbsp;said NASA’s Gordon Johnston. 



"If it strongly scatters sunlight towards the Earth it might even be visible in the glow of dusk just after its closest approach to Earth on October 12."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectacular-sight-in-the-skies">Spectacular sight in the skies</h2>



When the comet swings by the sun on September 27, it is expected to light up spectacularly. The comet's diameter can stretch up to 25 miles.



Tsuchinshan will be faintly visible with a telescope in the pre-dawn hours through October 4th across most of the United States. 



According to Johnston, the comet will be hidden through October 11, but will reappear in the evening sky just as it makes its closest pass to Earth on October 12.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-to-look-for-comet-c-2023-a3">Where to look for comet C/2023 A3</h2>



Look out for the moon in its waning crescent phase and you'll have a guide to catch the comet. Do keep in mind, the position of the comet can change in relation to the moon, depending on the date. 



Comet C/2023 A3 is approximately 157.1 million miles away from Earth and is moving closer at about 70km per second (150,000 miles per hour).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-comet-c-2023-a3">Unpredictable comet C/2023 A3</h2>



Minjae Kim, a space expert at the <a href="https://warwick.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Warwick</a>'s astronomy department, elaborated on the comet's behavior.



"C/2023 A3 has an orbital period of approximately 80,000 years, classifying it as a long-period comet. This means its behavior and appearance can be unpredictable, with potential changes in brightness and tail development as it approaches the sun," Kim said.



"If predictions hold, it could be visible to the naked eye, appearing as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shape-shifting-comet-has-been-zigzagging-through-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fuzzy star</a> with a tail stretching across the sky.&nbsp;Otherwise, binoculars or a small telescope may reveal more detail in the comet's structure and tail."&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dusty-snowballs-in-space">Dusty snowballs in space</h2>



Comets are essentially balls of ice, dust, and rocks from the ring of icy material known as the Oort cloud that skirts our solar system's outer edge. 



They bring along small remnants from the formation of our solar system 4.6 billion years ago, effectively making them ancient storytellers of space.



One of the most enchanting aspects of comets like C/2023 A3 is the artwork they create in the skies.



As comets approach the sun, they begin to heat up, releasing gas and dust that form a glowing coma and a tail that streams away from the sun.



This luminous dance is a result of solar wind and radiation pressure affecting the released particles, creating two distinct tails - one of ionized particles and another comprised of dust.



Observing these tails can offer a deeper understanding of a comet's composition and the solar forces at play - a true spectacle for both scientists and stargazers alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-most-anticipated-comet-of-the-year">Most anticipated comet of the year</h2>



In the words of Starwalk, an astronomical app for stargazers, comet C/2023 A3 is the "most anticipated comet of the year." And sure enough, it's creating quite a buzz in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-could-be-pushed-into-a-collision-course-with-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronomical community</a>.



The best viewing opportunities are expected between October 12 and October 20. During this time, Comet C/2023 A3 will climb higher in the sky each night and will slowly fade in visibility as it continues its journey out of the solar system. 



Johnston noted that the best time to catch a glimpse of Tsuchinshan should be the evenings on and shortly after October 12 with the comet above the western horizon after sunset.



Image Credit: NASA/ Brian Valente/ Greg Stein 



Video Credit:&nbsp;NASA's Johnson Space Center/M. Dominick



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

"Most anticipated" comet of 2024 returns this weekend after 80,000 years

Something absolutely fascinating is headed our way. For the first...

Satellite data has unveiled a captivating geological phenomenon beneath the Central Anatolian Plateau of Türkiye -- the Konya Basin, shaped by dripping of Earth's crust.



This hidden geological marvel has intrigued scientists for years, prompting further investigation into its underlying causes. 



After extensive analysis and data collection, a comprehensive study has finally revealed the secrets of the basin’s mysterious subsidence. 



The research, led by a team of dedicated earth scientists from the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>, is casting new light on the fascinating dynamics of our planet's plate tectonics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dripping-of-earth-s-crust">Dripping of Earth's crust</h2>



The scientists have successfully combined experimental simulations with extensive geological, geophysical, and geodetic data. 



This comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach has allowed them to explore more deeply the complex forces shaping the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-magma-traced-to-melting-in-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s crust</a>.



By using cutting-edge technologies and data from various sources, the experts were able to piece together the puzzle of the basin’s puzzling subsidence within the plateau’s rising interior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plate-tectonics-understanding-the-basics">Plate tectonics: Understanding the basics</h2>



Plate tectonics is the theory that explains how Earth's outer layer, known as the lithosphere, is split into several big and small plates. 



These tectonic plates float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below and move slowly but steadily because of convection currents created by heat from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's core</a>. 



This movement shapes the planet’s surface and is responsible for creating continents, mountains, and ocean basins.



At the edges where these plates meet, some pretty significant geological events happen. When plates pull apart, they create space for magma to rise and form new crust, leading to mid-ocean ridges and rift valleys. 



When plates come together, one can be pushed beneath another in a process called subduction, which can create deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizen-scientists-uncover-microplastics-in-the-remote-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean trenches</a> and volcanic activity. At transform boundaries, plates slide past each other, causing friction that triggers earthquakes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changing-tectonic-plate-system">Changing tectonic plate system</h2>



This fresh perspective not only sheds light on the dynamics at play in Türkiye but also provides invaluable insights into a new category of plate tectonics. 



These findings have far-reaching implications, particularly for planets that lack Earth’s familiar tectonic plate system, such as Mars and Venus.



Understanding how similar processes may occur on other celestial bodies opens the door to future planetary studies, expanding the scope of geological research beyond Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stages-of-the-crust-dripping">Stages of the crust dripping</h2>



The research, published in the journal Nature Communications, reveals that the basin's subsidence is primarily driven by a novel process known as multi-stage lithospheric dripping.



This term refers to the instability within the rocky material that makes up Earth’s crust and upper mantle, which causes dense rock fragments beneath the surface to gradually detach and sink into the more fluid layer of the planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mantle-heat-shaped-earths-crust-3-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mantle</a>. 



The instability not only reshapes the subsurface but also triggers the formation of significant surface features, including major landforms such as basins and mountainous folds.



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



“Looking at the satellite data, we observed a circular feature at the Konya Basin where the crust is subsiding or the basin is deepening," noted Julia Andersen, who led the research.



"This prompted us to look at other geophysical data beneath the surface where we saw a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic</a> anomaly in the upper mantle and a thickened crust, telling us there is high-density material there and indicating a likely mantle lithospheric drip.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-turkiye-s-plateau">Beyond Türkiye's plateau</h2>



Reflecting on their study, the scientists found parallels to their investigation in the formation of the Arizaro Basin in the Andes Mountains of South America.



This indicates that the phenomenon of lithospheric dripping is not localized but can occur anywhere on Earth, elucidating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-volcanic-events-linked-to-the-slowing-of-tectonic-plates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tectonic processes</a> usually found in mountain plateau regions.



The Central Anatolian Plateau has risen by approximately one kilometer over the last 10 million years due to lithospheric dripping, according to past studies.



As the thickened lithosphere dripped below the region, it formed a basin at the surface, which later rose when the weight below detached and sank further into the mantle's depths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lab-investigations-on-the-dripping-crust">Lab investigations on the dripping crust</h2>



In their quest to better understand these processes, the researchers recreated the dripping process in laboratory experiments. They designed analogue models that imitated the potential evolution of the process. 



Filling a plexiglass tank with a silicone polymer fluid to represent Earth’s fluid lower mantle, they added a mixture of this fluid with clay to replicate the upper-most solid section of the mantle, and finally a layer of ceramic and silica spheres to act as Earth’s crust.



Researchers noted that these experiments, in tandem with their geophysical and geological data collection, have been instrumental in understanding the complex mechanisms shaping our earth's terrain.



“The findings show these major tectonic events are linked, with one lithospheric drip potentially triggering a host of further activity deep in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-interior-is-cooling-faster-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary interior</a>,” Andersen concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-geological-research">Advancing geological research</h2>



Türkiye's unique geological features, such as the Central Anatolian Plateau and the Konya Basin, provide scientists with unparalleled opportunities to study tectonic processes that shape not only our planet but others as well. 



The country's dynamic landscape is becoming a focal point for research into phenomena like dripping of Earth's crust, helping researchers better understand Earth's crustal evolution.



The findings from Türkiye may also serve as a model for investigating similar processes on planets like Mars and Venus, where tectonics differ but share underlying mechanisms of mantle dynamics.



The study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-52126-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

Earth's crust is 'dripping' under Turkey

Satellite data has unveiled a captivating geological phenomenon beneath the...

The brain's ability to effortlessly link pronouns to the correct person in a sentence is remarkable. 



Imagine reading: “Donald Trump and Kamala Harris walked into the bar, she sat down at a table.” Instantly, you know it was Kamala Harris who sat, not Donald Trump. 



But how does the brain make that connection so easily, especially when multiple interpretations are possible?



An international team of neurosurgeons, neuroscientists, and neurologists set out to uncover the mechanisms behind this process, focusing on how the brain links pronouns to specific individuals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brilliance-of-the-brain-s-hippocampus">Brilliance of the brain's hippocampus</h2>



The research was led by Pieter R. Roelfsema,&nbsp;director of the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience in Amsterdam.



The experts were particularly interested in the role of the hippocampus - the brain area responsible for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zombie-neurons-shed-new-light-on-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> and memory.



Thr study was focused on patients undergoing treatment for epilepsy. To manage their condition, each of these patients had depth electrodes implanted within their hippocampus.



“We can measure the activity of individual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cells</a> in the hippocampus while the patient performs a task,” explained study co-author Matthew Self.&nbsp;



The team observed that "concept cells" within the hippocampus would respond to specific individuals. 



For instance, a "Jennifer Aniston cell" would become active upon seeing her photo, hearing her name or reading "Jennifer Aniston." Could these cells activate upon reading pronouns?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-reaction-to-pronouns">Brain reaction to pronouns</h2>



Doris Dijksterhuis, another researcher from the team, elaborated on their experimental approach. 



“To test this, we first showed the patients many photos until we found a cell that responded to one particular image," said Dijksterhuis.



"For example, we found a cell that responded to an image of ‘Shrek’ but not to other images. We call this cell a ‘Shrek concept cell.'"



"When patients later read a sentence like: 'Shrek and Fiona were having dinner. He poured out some wine,' the ‘Shrek’ cell indeed responded to the word Shrek, but also to the pronoun ‘He.’"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-cells-track-the-pronouns">Brain cells track the pronouns</h2>



Dijksterhuis found this fascinating as a pronoun can mean something entirely different in another sentence. 



For example, in the sentence "Donald Trump and Kamala Harris were having dinner. He poured out some wine," the same pronoun (he) refers to Donald Trump and hence, the Shrek cell did not react.



It became apparent that cells in the hippocampus track the individual a pronoun refers to in a dynamic, flexible manner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-activity-and-pronoun-processing">Brain activity and pronoun processing</h2>



The researchers asked the participants to answer a question at the end of each sentence regarding who performed the action. They could predict the correct answer based on the activity of the individual concept cells.



“We observed that patients tended to choose the person that evoked the most activity in the hippocampus at the start of the sentence," noted Self.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-memory-and-pronouns">Brain, memory, and pronouns</h2>



"The hippocampus is important for learning and memory, but it remains unclear how the hippocampus is involved in the interaction between memory and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-language-is-specially-stored-in-the-brain-for-easy-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language</a>. Ultimately, we want to know how an entire memory is formed and represented in the brain,” explained Dijksterhuis.



“It is of great value that this group of patients has given their permission to participate in our research."



"We can only very rarely measure the activity of single brain cells in people who are reading and it is impossible to study these processes in animals. When we get the chance, we try to get as much out of it as possible."



The recent findings bring scientists closer to unraveling the complexities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognition</a>, ultimately leading to a better understanding of the human brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pronoun-perception-in-the-hippocampus">Pronoun perception in the hippocampus</h2>



As the research progressed, the team further explored how the hippocampus could distinguish between multiple pronoun references in real time.



Their experiment with concept cells, like those reacting to Shrek or Jennifer Aniston, showed that the hippocampus doesn’t just store memories - it dynamically tracks language cues.



This breakthrough suggests that the brain’s memory and language centers work together more intricately than previously thought, particularly when processing ambiguous information like pronouns. 



The study offers a new perspective on how we form coherent memories from fragmented linguistic inputs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adr2813" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;



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



-----

How the brain links pronouns to memory

The brain's ability to effortlessly link pronouns to the correct...

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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



---



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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



---



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



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



---



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.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



---



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.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



---



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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



---



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.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



---



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.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> is focused on the melt ponds that emerge during the spring and summer on the Greenland Ice Sheet, which is the largest ice mass in the northern hemisphere.



"Melt ponds are vast pools of open water that form on both sea ice and ice sheets and are visible as turquoise-blue pools of water in this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image," says ESA.



"When snow and ice melts atop glaciers, water flows in channels and streams and collects in depressions on the surface. These melt ponds can speed up the melting of the surrounding ice since they greatly reduce the ice’s ability to reflect sunlight."



"This can create a positive feedback where an increasing number of melt ponds absorb more heat which causes ice cover to melt even faster."



According to ESA, Greenland has been hit with a late-season heatwave that began in early September. This caused the type of melt event that usually occurs in the middle of summer.



"In a recent paper published in Nature Climate Change, scientists found that major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now ‘inevitable’ even if the burning of fossil fuels were to halt overnight," says ESA. "Using satellite observations of Greenland ice loss and ice cap from 2000 to 2019, the team found the losses will lead to a minimum rise of 27 cm regardless of climate change."



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



---



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.

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

[sendtonews key="qARzJPSabQ-2270617-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> describes a new map of Mars that is providing insight into the planet’s watery past. The map also reveals where future missions could safely land on Mars.&nbsp;



The map has been created over the last decade using observations of water-rich rocks and mineral deposits. The images were captured by ESA’s Mars Express and NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.



"A big surprise is the prevalence of these minerals, with the map revealing hundreds of thousands of water-affected locations in the oldest parts of the planet," says ESA. "The new data will help answer exciting questions about Mars’ climate history, whether water was globally persistent or confined to short, intense episodes, and whether the conditions were ever suitable for life."



"Specifically, the map shows the locations and abundances of aqueous minerals. These are from rocks that have been chemically altered by the action of water in the past, and have typically been transformed into clays and salts."



According to John Carter of the Institut d’Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), our collective understanding of Mars has been oversimplified. He explained that planetary scientists have tended to think that only a few types of clay minerals on Mars were created during its wet period, then as the water gradually dried up, salts were produced across the planet.



The new map shows that the composition of Mars is much more complicated than what we thought. For example, while many salts formed after Martian clays, there are some salts that are presumed to be older than some of the clays.&nbsp;



“The evolution from lots of water to no water is not as clear cut as we thought, the water didn’t just stop overnight. We see a huge diversity of geological contexts, so that no one process or simple timeline can explain the evolution of the mineralogy of Mars. That’s the first result of our study. The second is that if you exclude life processes on Earth, Mars exhibits a diversity of mineralogy in geological settings just as Earth does,” said Carter.



Video Credit: ESA



---



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.

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

[sendtonews key="qas3EhyI0Y-2220951-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes how cavefish adapted to a sedentary lifestyle over tens of thousands of years. 



The experts found that the muscle metabolism of cavefish has been genetically reprogrammed over time. As a result, the animals have experienced major changes in their morphology and behavior. Despite these changes, however, the cavefish remain healthy and fit.



The research may provide new clues about the evolutionary consequences of prolonged physical inactivity in humans.&nbsp;



“It’s no surprise that people are moving less and less as technology has advanced,” said Rohner. “With cavefish, we have a unique system where we can study what might happen if people remained couch potatoes over very, very long periods of time.”



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



---



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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"]</div>



Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



"With more than 370,000 miles of coastline on Earth, there are plenty of places where epic waves build up, curl over, and hurtle toward the shore.- much to the thrill of surfers," says NASA. "There are some places where these waves are so magnificent that they can be seen from space."



"With the broad perspective of satellites, we can see how these iconic waves develop into the world’s tallest, longest, fastest, and heaviest."



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



---



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.

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

News coming your way