Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

A new study has revealed how both recent and lifetime cannabis use can affect cognitive function. In particular, cannabis use was linked to reduced neural activity during working memory tasks.&nbsp;



The project - among the largest to investigate cannabis and cognition - examined more than 1,000 adults aged 22 to 36, using cutting-edge brain imaging techniques to assess the impact of cannabis on various mental processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-and-working-memory-nbsp">Cannabis and working memory&nbsp;</h2>



The research team discovered that 63% of heavy lifetime <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-and-hallucinogen-use-are-at-historically-high-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> users showed diminished brain activation in key regions while performing a working memory exercise, while 68% of recent users demonstrated a similar pattern.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pupils-enlarge-dilate-when-working-memory-engaged-focused-on-task/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Working memory</a>, a cognitive ability essential for temporarily storing and manipulating information, underpins a wide array of everyday tasks, such as following directions or solving mental calculations.



Joshua Gowin is the study’s first author and an assistant professor of radiology at the <a href="https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado School of Medicine</a>.&nbsp;



“As cannabis use continues to grow globally, studying its effects on human health has become increasingly important," Gowin explained. 



"By doing so, we can provide a well-rounded understanding of both the benefits and risks of cannabis use, empowering people to make informed decisions and fully comprehend the potential consequences."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinguishing-cannabis-users-by-intake">Distinguishing cannabis users by intake</h2>



The researchers classified study participants into three groups, based on cannabis usage history:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Heavy users: Over 1,000 total instances of cannabis use</li>



<li>Moderate users: Between 10 and 999 total uses</li>



<li>Non-users: Fewer than 10 total uses</li>
</ul>



The volunteers completed seven cognitive tasks - ranging from working memory and reward assessment to emotional processing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-with-too-much-screen-time-struggle-to-gain-language-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language skills</a> - while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).&nbsp;



This approach allowed scientists to examine real-time brain activity in response to different stimuli.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-working-memory-the-most-vulnerable-function">Working memory: The most vulnerable function</h2>



While many of the tasks revealed subtle cognitive differences, the most pronounced effect appeared in working memory.



“We applied the highest standards to our research, setting rigorous thresholds for statistical significance across all seven cognitive function tests. To minimize the risk of false positives, we employed false discovery rate (FDR) correction,” noted Gowin.&nbsp;



“While some of the other tasks indicated potential cognitive impairment, only the working memory task showed a statistically significant impact.”



Reduced working memory performance manifested in lower neural activation within regions such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC), and the anterior insula. 



These areas are closely tied to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/optimal-decision-making-is-a-balance-of-experience-and-knowledge/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decision-making</a>, problem-solving, and the integration of thoughts and emotions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-and-brain-function-nbsp">Cannabis use and brain function&nbsp;</h2>



Notably, the researchers found that refraining from cannabis prior to cognitive testing might offer some improvement in working memory performance. 



However, abrupt cessation could also temporarily disturb cognitive function, especially among heavy users, due to potential withdrawal symptoms.



“People need to be aware of their relationship with cannabis since abstaining cold turkey could disrupt their cognition as well. For example, heavy users may need to be more cautious,” said Gowin.



This dynamic highlights the complexity of cannabis’s impact on cognition, emphasizing that moderation or gradual reduction may be preferable for individuals wishing to protect or recover working memory capabilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed-nbsp">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



While the findings confirm a clear correlation between cannabis use and reduced working memory function, the researchers emphasize there is still much to learn about how these effects might vary across age groups, usage patterns, and individual physiology.



“There are a lot of questions we still need answers to regarding how cannabis impacts the brain. Large, long-term studies are needed next to understand whether cannabis use directly changes brain function, how long these effects last and the impact on different age groups,” noted Gowin.



Such extended research could clarify the duration of these cognitive impacts, determine whether they persist long after cessation, and identify any unique vulnerabilities among younger or older populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-risks-and-benefits-nbsp">Understanding the risks and benefits&nbsp;</h2>



As cannabis use gains broader acceptance and legalization in many regions, these findings bear considerable weight on both public health strategies and policy considerations.&nbsp;



By highlighting potential risks to memory and daily functioning, this research serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding both the benefits and drawbacks of cannabis consumption.



Ultimately, knowledge gained from such studies could shape guidelines and interventions, aiding individuals and communities in making well-informed decisions about cannabis use - particularly in contexts demanding a high degree of working memory and cognitive performance.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2829657" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Cannabis use causes memory problems, and they may be permanent

A new study has revealed how both recent and lifetime...

The Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is a vital part of the Amazon's rich biodiversity, but its genetic diversity has faced centuries of disruption. 



Factors such as European colonization, extensive deforestation, and the extinction of large seed-dispersing animals like the giant sloth have all played a role in its decline.



The Brazil nut tree is also a symbol of ecological resilience, economic sustenance, and the intricate web of life within the rainforest. But now, its future is at stake as human activities are constantly shifting the ecology of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-trees-are-critically-endangered-even-in-protected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon</a> Basin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genomic-data-from-brazil-nut-trees">Genomic data from Brazil nut trees</h2>



A team of researchers recently embarked on a mission to investigate the genetic diversity and population dynamics of Brazil nut trees.



“This research provides an amazing opportunity to study how human actions, even in the distant past, have affected genetic makeup in a wild species over short time scales,” noted Detlef Weigel, an expert at the the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/151769/biology-tuebingen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> for Biology Tübingen. 



The scientists used up-to-date genomic techniques to analyze a total of 270 Brazil nut tree samples. These samples, each with known archaeological evidence, were collected from various locations.



The result of this analysis was a detailed genomic data sheet that identified over 126,000 genetic variants in the Brazil nut tree's genome. The data is a treasure trove of insights into the genetic health and adaptability of the species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-diversity-of-brazil-nut-trees">Genetic diversity of Brazil nut trees</h2>



The study suggests that, when compared to the diversity of other species, there has been a steep decline in the genetic diversity of Brazil nut trees over the past 20,000 years. But, it's not all gloom and doom.



Areas that have been managed by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indigenous-communities-provide-clues-to-healthy-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indigenous communities</a> show more complex genetic backgrounds, revealing a deep connection between plant life and Indigenous land stewardship.



For example, younger trees (less than 200 years old) in the Tefé National Forest (TEF) show a greater diversity of genes. This is thanks to their adaptation to previous natural disturbances and to the management approaches of local communities that have led to genetic resilience. 



This exemplifies how traditional ecological practices can uphold the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic diversity</a> and health of a species while providing a model for sustainable management.



Victor Caetano-Andrade, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Coevolution of Land Use and Urbanisation at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, shared his insight.



“We aimed to bridge gaps in our understanding of the long-term anthropogenic influences on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-herbivore-extinctions-drastically-affect-forest-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest ecosystems</a>. Our findings demonstrate how Indigenous land management practices play a significant role in maintaining the genetic diversity of Brazil nut populations,” said Caetano-Andrade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-collaboration-and-conservation">Strengthening collaboration and conservation</h2>



This innovative study highlights the crucial partnership between scientists and Indigenous land stewards. By leveraging their historical ecological knowledge, we can create more inclusive and effective conservation policies.



Looking ahead, the scientists plan to broaden their investigation to more regions and additional species within the Amazon rainforest.



The ultimate goal is to develop comprehensive conservation frameworks that protect Brazil nut trees and bolster the ecosystem's resilience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-economic-impacts">Ecological and economic impacts </h2>



The loss of genetic diversity in Brazil nut trees affects more than just the species itself. The impacts extend to other aspects of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainforest</a> ecosystem, as well as to local economies.



The Brazil nut tree is a keystone species that plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity. These trees provide food and shelter for countless organisms - ranging from pollinators like orchid bees to large, fruit-eating mammals.



Reduced genetic diversity weakens the tree’s resilience to climate change, pests, and diseases, and increases the risk of population decline.



Moreover, this genetic bottleneck has economic consequences for communities that rely on Brazil nut harvesting as a primary source of income.



Declining tree health and lower yields could threaten a sustainable industry that has supported Amazonian livelihoods for centuries. 



Maintaining genetic variation through conservation efforts and Indigenous land stewardship will be essential for safeguarding not only the species but also the ecological and economic stability of the region.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0960982224016919" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.



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Genetic legacy of the Brazil nut tree has been altered by human activity

The Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is a vital part...

Quantum computers promise calculations at speeds that can make standard devices look sluggish. Many experiments have centered on ions, neutral atoms, or superconducting circuits because these particles are easier to keep steady. 



Molecules, on the other hand, have been considered too unwieldy for such fine-tuned quantum operations.



They are packed with vibrations, rotations, and other complex motions that can easily interfere with fragile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shape-of-electrons-revealed-first-time-through-big-advance-in-quantum-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a>.



However, <a href="https://www.chemistry.harvard.edu/people/kang-kuen-ni" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Kang-Kuen Ni</a> from Harvard University has now shown that these challenges can be tackled with a method that traps molecules in an ultra-cold environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ultra-cold-molecules-in-quantum-computing">Ultra-cold molecules in quantum computing</h2>



Classical computing relies on binary bits (0 or 1). 



<a href="https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.88.067901" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum computing</a> replaces those bits with qubits that can exist in both 0 and 1 at once. That special property, called <a href="https://quantum.microsoft.com/en-us/insights/education/concepts/superposition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superposition</a>, allows for parallel processing on a scale that normal computers cannot manage.



Molecules pack additional layers of structure that can, in principle, expand the scope of these calculations. However, random vibrations and rotations complicate efforts to keep them in well-defined <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-the-universe-remains-predictable-insights-from-quantum-mechanics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-94-accuracy-in-quantum-operations">94% accuracy in quantum operations</h2>



Researchers have been refining two-qubit gates for years. 



One important gate, known as <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08177-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iSWAP</a>, swaps the states of two qubits and applies a phase shift. This combination is crucial for creating <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/quant-ph/0402001" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entanglement</a>, where qubits exhibit correlations that let them work in tandem.



By using <a href="https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2020APS..DMPG06003L/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sodium-cesium molecules</a>, the team devised a route to carry out this gate with an accuracy of 94 percent.&nbsp;



“As a field we have been trying to do this for 20 years,” exclaimed Kang-Kuen Ni.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stabilizing-quantum-computations">Stabilizing quantum computations</h2>



One strategy for taming molecules is to lower their temperature drastically. 



This approach slows their motion so that precise laser traps, known as optical tweezers, can grab and hold them in place. 



When the molecules remain still, the quantum states last longer, making them more reliable for calculations.



Those carefully arranged molecules can then be directed to interact at specific times. That control avoids unwanted collisions or jitters that would ruin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/schrodingers-cat-put-into-silicon-chip-may-be-holy-grail-for-error-proof-quantum-computing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superpositions</a> and reduce performance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-new-quantum-ecosystem">Building a new quantum ecosystem</h2>



Trapped molecules have certain properties that might help push the boundaries of computing. Some have <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/dipole-interaction" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dipole-dipole interactions</a>, which are <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-019-1666-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tunable</a> electric charges that can link individual qubits in customized ways.



“Our work marks a milestone in trapped molecule technology and is the last building block necessary to build a molecular quantum computer,” said Annie Park, postdoctoral fellow. 



With these adjustable forces, scientists can create gates that are ideal for solving specialized problems.&nbsp;



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



Quantum computing has come a long way since its initial theoretical proposals in the 1980s. Early demonstrations used trapped ions, which introduced the idea of controlling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a> with lasers in a vacuum. 



<a href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/apr/article/6/2/021318/570326/A-quantum-engineer-s-guide-to-superconducting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Superconducting qubits</a> have also captured significant attention, with companies like <a href="https://blog.google/technology/research/google-willow-quantum-chip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google</a> showcasing large-scale chips to demonstrate so-called quantum supremacy.



The journey has moved from atoms to molecules, and <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03943-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular qubits</a> now appear to be catching up. 



Although the extra layers of motion once seemed like an obstacle, these hidden layers could power advanced quantum simulations of chemistry or materials science.



Researchers can tune not only electronic and spin states but also rotational and vibrational modes, thus opening new avenues for exploring interactions that mimic real-world molecules.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-implications">Practical implications</h2>



Industries such as finance, logistics, and pharmaceuticals keep a close eye on emerging quantum methods. 



Optimization problems that involve analyzing vast possibilities in record time benefit from more robust qubit platforms.



Molecules, with their diverse internal arrangements, could handle certain problem sets more nimbly than other architectures.



Techniques for stabilizing these molecules are evolving fast. <a href="https://arxiv.org/pdf/1902.05628" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laser-cooling strategies</a> once worked best for atoms, but improved methods now tackle larger molecules by carefully matching laser light to molecular transitions. 



Success in this area may spark a wave of specialized quantum processors that rely on custom-tailored molecules.



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



Realizing a 94 percent fidelity in the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08177-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iSWAP gate</a> stands as a major checkpoint. That figure suggests enough precision to build larger quantum circuits, though refinements are likely needed before a full-scale system becomes practical. 



Small errors can accumulate, so scientists plan to address any stray movement or minute temperature spikes that might cause <a href="https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/qm-decoherence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decoherence</a>.



Research also points to the potential of toggling interactions between active and inactive modes. By switching from an interacting state to a quiet, non-interacting state, scientists can pause interactions mid-computation. 



This fine-grained control could help modularize quantum processors, making them easier to scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-standard-protocols">Beyond standard protocols</h2>



Early quantum computing experiments focused mostly on straightforward platforms. Now that molecules can be trapped and manipulated, some experts foresee brand-new protocols. 



Instead of forcing qubits into minimal sets of energy levels, advanced procedures might exploit various rotational states to encode more information in fewer particles.



Chemical reactions, energy transfer processes, and other fundamental phenomena might be simulated more naturally using a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-particles-solution-gravitational-wave-mystery-bose-einstein-condensate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular system</a>. 



Even small-scale proofs of concept could illuminate mysteries about how chemical bonds form or break under different conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-our-understanding-of-matter">Challenging our understanding of matter</h2>



Quantum computing still faces hurdles with error correction and scalability. Even so, the introduction of molecules brings a fresh dimension. While single atoms and ions have simpler spectra, molecules hint at a world of adaptability.



Scientists will likely build on these findings in the coming years, testing whether other kinds of molecules can be cooled and coupled in similar ways. 



If so, each type of molecule might serve as a specialized node in a larger system, much like different branches of computing rely on distinct processors optimized for graphics or data analysis.



There is also interest in harnessing <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-31618-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nuclear spins</a> in molecules. These spins can remain stable for longer intervals, helping with tasks that need persistent qubit memory. 



Such research could merge the best traits of molecules with well-established quantum methods, making the overall platform stronger.



Quantum mechanics has always challenged intuition about how matter behaves at tiny scales. 



Watching molecules engage in these exotic computational steps adds a new chapter to that story. The once-messy complexities of molecular structures are transforming into valuable assets.



Ni’s group, and others, are eager to refine these techniques. New refinements may shrink error rates, boost gate speeds, and uncover even more versatile ways to encode data in molecules.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08177-3">Nature</a>.



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Ultra-cold molecules poised to revolutionize quantum computing

Quantum computers promise calculations at speeds that can make standard...

Southern California has been battling intense wildfires, with flames erupting across several parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. 



The latest surge in dangerous weather is connected to the infamous <a href="https://people.atmos.ucla.edu/fovell/ASother/mm5/SantaAna/winds.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Santa Ana winds</a>, which have been sweeping in from inland deserts and fanning fires at an alarming speed. 



At the end of last week, multiple fires flared, including a sizable one near <a href="https://www.castaiclake.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Castaic</a> that scorched thousands of acres. 



Damage has been managed so far, thanks to water drops and strategic containment, but the combined effect of gusty conditions and near-zero humidity remains a worry.&nbsp;



These insights align with ongoing observations from Northeastern University climatologist <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=M7Vjq24AAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chengfei He</a>, and from Ph.D. candidate <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaylawrencewx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lindsay Lawrence</a>, who specializes in meteorology at the same institution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-santa-ana-winds-fuel-fires">How Santa Ana winds fuel fires</h2>



The <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/news/earthword-katabatic-winds" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">katabatic</a> nature of these winds sets them apart from typical coastal breezes. 



They begin inland where high pressure builds over cooler desert terrain, and then move downhill toward the coast. That downhill journey compresses and heats the air, making it even drier.&nbsp;



According to the National Weather Service (<a href="https://www.weather.gov/lox/observations_historical" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NWS</a>), humidity has hovered below 10% in several locations. This “thirsty air” robs moisture from the landscape, which contributes to tinderbox conditions.



It’s not just the dryness that stokes these fires. Wind speed also matters. Narrow passes and canyons in Southern California funnel these desert gusts, causing them to pick up velocity. 



Gusts of over 60 mph (96 kmph) have been recorded in parts of Los Angeles County, which creates even more challenges for emergency crews.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-january-fires-feel-alarming">Why January fires feel alarming</h2>



January in Southern California is often considered a time for rainy spells, yet the region has seen extended dryness coupled with sporadic high-pressure systems. 



That scenario means the usual winter precipitation has done little to dampen brush and <a href="https://californiachaparral.org/chaparral/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chaparral</a> growth from earlier wet periods. So when the strong winds arrived, the environment was ready to ignite.



Fire officials have pointed out that in some neighborhoods, hydrants temporarily lost pressure, which complicated the firefight. Powerful blasts can also prevent aerial support from accurately dropping water or retardant on the flames.&nbsp;



“Any new fire can grow rapidly,” posted the National Weather Service on <a href="https://x.com/usfire?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X</a>. High winds can carry embers over long distances, <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/canadas-fire-season-is-off-to-an-intense-start/">generating spot fires</a> that erupt without warning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-wildfires-and-santa-ana-winds">Humans, wildfires, and Santa Ana winds</h2>



Research published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abh2262" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a> found that every Santa Ana wind–driven fire in the study occurred due to human activity. Power lines, vehicle sparks, or accidental campfire embers often ignite the first flame.&nbsp;



“One hundred percent of SAW fires were human caused,” wrote the authors in the study, which highlights the importance of prevention measures during red flag warnings.



Another point that keeps appearing in official records is the effect of infrastructure failures. Power lines have snapped under the force of heavy winds, raining sparks down on parched terrain.&nbsp;



This year’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fires-linked-to-1-53-million-deaths-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fires have fitted that same pattern</a>, with local utility agencies urging customers to report damaged lines or outages before they morph into something far more dangerous.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strong-winds-make-firefighting-harder">Strong winds make firefighting harder</h2>



When ferocious gusts rip across the slopes, firefighting aircraft can be forced to stay grounded. Even helicopters in the air have to contend with swirling conditions that interfere with water drops. Crews on the ground also struggle with downed trees that block roads.&nbsp;



“One of our bigger concerns ... is downed power lines and downed power poles that fall down,” said Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.&nbsp;



These obstacles slow down rescue routes and general evacuation efforts. At higher elevations, dryness intensifies. Brush that might hold some moisture in coastal zones can become brittle and extremely flammable at altitude.&nbsp;



Firefighters have encountered aggressive fire behavior around ridges, canyons, and farmland edges, and thousands of people in neightborhoods scattered across Los Angeles and Ventura counties have been forced to evacuate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-struggle-with-fire-threats-and-strong-winds">Struggle with fire threats and strong winds</h2>



Communities living in traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/explosive-wildfires-in-california-fueled-by-hurricane-force-winds/">Santa Ana</a> corridors often brace for these conditions. 



The relentless possibility of evacuation and the fear of losing one’s home take a toll on families. Residents remain on edge, waiting to see if shifting winds will turn a distant blaze into an immediate threat.



These wind systems have arrived multiple times this month, which has compounded the anxiety. The dryness has persisted for nearly three weeks, with only a short break before warnings popped up again.



Meanwhile, a developing storm system may bring rain shortly, but no one believes the precipitation alone will solve the broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-identified-the-key-driver-of-severe-wildfires-in-canada/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fire problem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-relief-on-the-horizon">Possible relief on the horizon</h2>



Forecasts from meteorologist Ryan Kittell at the NWS show a possible shift by the weekend. Light showers are expected in parts of Los Angeles County, with higher elevations anticipating moderate snowfall.&nbsp;



“It’s not going to get us out of the fire season,” said <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanjlewis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bryan Lewis</a>, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. Even so, an uptick in humidity could assist exhausted crews, who welcome cooler, wetter conditions.



After January’s repeated red flag warnings, any rainfall will be a relief, even if it doesn’t reverse the dryness overnight. 



Experts warn that a single weekend of rain will not suddenly replenish soil moisture or revive withered vegetation enough to eliminate fire hazards.



However, the fire service hopes it will reduce the chance of major flare-ups for at least a few days.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-climate-questions">Long-term climate questions</h2>



Scientists remain cautious about linking <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43017-024-00624-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydroclimate whiplash</a> exclusively to the frequency of Santa Ana events.&nbsp;



Some <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/chapter/chapter-11/">st</a><a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/chapter/chapter-11/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">udies</a> suggest that as interior deserts warm more quickly than the coast, the pressure gradient that drives these winds might weaken.&nbsp;



Others argue that earlier rainfall can spur extra brush growth, which then dries out and fuels bigger fires when the winds arrive.&nbsp;



Climatologists continue to track data and refine models to predict how these conditions might evolve over the coming decades.



For now, local residents, <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/more-than-100-fires-are-burning-in-portugal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">firefighters</a>, and government officials are focused on short-term solutions like power line checks and community preparedness. Organizations are urging everyone to stay alert and take any official warnings seriously.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-challenge-southern-california-s-future">Wildfires challenge Southern California’s future</h2>



The tensions surrounding these blazes highlight Southern California’s delicate balance of scenic living and climatic risk. Plans for future growth must consider infrastructure that won’t spark under fierce gusts.&nbsp;



While the Santa Ana phenomenon is not new, its overlap with human factors - urban sprawl, power lines, and climate shifts - raises serious questions about how to keep communities safe in the face of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-extremes-in-2024-what-have-we-learned/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing weather extremes</a>.



Rain clouds offer hope, but firefighting operations remain in full force. Fire officials say they won’t let their guard down until crews confirm a solid containment line and the wind threat subsides. 



Dry brush, unrelenting gusts, and widespread burnout loom as potential hazards until wetter conditions settle in.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/intense-fire-season-in-mexico-is-part-of-a-worldwide-trend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fire season</a> in Southern California no longer seems confined to a particular month. January is closing out with events that are historically typical for autumn. For many, this serves as a reminder that caution is essential as the Santa Ana winds keep returning with renewed energy.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abh2262" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Santa Ana winds: The hidden spark behind California's fire surge

Southern California has been battling intense wildfires, with flames erupting...

The idea of entire cities sinking beneath the waves might seem like science fiction. Yet, recent research on rising sea levels suggests that this scenario could become reality within the next 75 years.



A study from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore predicts that global sea levels could rise by as much as 6.2 feet (1.9 meters) by 2100 if carbon emissions continue to climb. 



Such a drastic increase would have catastrophic consequences for coastal cities worldwide, leaving millions displaced and vast regions uninhabitable.



"The high-end projection of 1.9 meters [6.2 feet] underscores the need for decision-makers to plan for critical infrastructure accordingly," said Dr. Benjamin Grandey, lead author of the study.



"More importantly, these results emphasize the importance of climate mitigation through reducing greenhouse gas emissions," he warned.



If these projections come true, countless coastal towns and major cities could be submerged underwater. The impact would be felt across all continents, from the United Kingdom and Europe to the United States and beyond.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-sea-level-projections">Rising sea level projections</h2>



Projections of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-warnings-what-coastal-cities-must-prepare-for/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea-level</a> rise depend on complex climate models that factor in various processes. Some projections focus on well-documented trends, such as the melting of glaciers.



Others incorporate less predictable events, such as the sudden collapse of ice shelves. The combination of these different elements results in a wide range of possible outcomes.



The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (<a href="https://www.ipcc.ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPCC</a>) addressed this uncertainty in its 2023 Sixth Assessment Report. Under high-emission scenarios, the IPCC estimated global sea levels would rise between 1.9 and 3.2 feet (0.6 and 1.0 meters). 



However, researchers at <a href="https://www.ntu.edu.sg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTU</a> argue that existing models often fail to provide a clear picture. They have developed a "fusion" approach that combines statistical methods with expert opinions to refine sea level predictions.



"Our new approach tackles a key issue in sea-level science: different methods of projecting sea-level rise often produce widely varying results," Dr. Grandey explained. 



By integrating multiple approaches, researchers hope to provide a more accurate estimate of what the future holds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-to-the-united-kingdom">Threat to the United Kingdom</h2>



If sea levels rise by 6.2 feet (1.9 meters), vast areas of the United Kingdom will be at risk.



London would be particularly vulnerable, with many neighborhoods along the River Thames facing severe flooding. Areas such as Bermondsey, Greenwich, Battersea, and Chelsea would likely experience catastrophic inundation.



The impact would extend far beyond the capital. The east coast of England is expected to suffer the most, with towns such as Hull, Skegness, and Grimsby facing complete submersion. Even inland locations, including Peterborough and Lincoln, could experience severe flooding.



Climate Central’s <a href="https://coastal.climatecentral.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coastal Risk Screening Tool</a> provides a detailed look at which regions will be affected. By setting the water level to 6.2 feet (1.9 meters), users can see which areas are predicted to disappear beneath rising seas. The results paint a grim picture, with entire coastal stretches marked in red.



The west coast of England and Wales would also feel the effects. Low-lying communities such as Weston-super-Mare, Newport, and Cardiff would be heavily impacted. Meanwhile, parts of Southport and Blackpool could also face destruction.



Scotland and Northern Ireland, however, appear to be less affected due to their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pacific-sea-levels-are-rising-faster-than-anywhere-in-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher elevations</a>. While some localized flooding may occur, these regions will likely escape the worst of the crisis.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-perspective-on-rising-seas">Global perspective on rising seas</h2>



The threat of rising seas extends far beyond the U.K. Across Europe, heavily populated coastal areas could vanish.



Climate Central predicts that the entire coastline from Calais in France to southern Denmark could be submerged. The situation in Italy is equally dire, with Venice - that is already battling frequent floods - potentially disappearing beneath the water.



The United States is not immune to the dangers either. Coastal cities in the southern states, including New Orleans, Galveston, and parts of the Florida Everglades, are among the most vulnerable.



With much of New Orleans already sitting below <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-much-will-antarctica-contribute-to-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level</a>, an increase of 6.2 feet would make it nearly impossible to protect.



Many other regions worldwide would also be at risk. Island nations in the Pacific, such as the Maldives and Tuvalu, could become totally uninhabitable. 



Coastal megacities like Jakarta, Bangkok, and Mumbai would face relentless flooding that would threaten the homes and livelihoods of millions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-anything-be-done">Can anything be done?</h2>



The findings from NTU highlight the urgent need for climate action. The continued rise in carbon dioxide emissions remains the primary driver of global warming and ice melt. Without significant reductions, future generations could witness the submersion of major cities.



"This NTU research represents a significant breakthrough in sea-level science. By estimating the probability of the most extreme outcomes, it underscores the severe impacts of sea-level rise on coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems, emphasising the urgent need to address the climate crisis," noted Professor Benjamin Horton, Director of the Earth Observatory of Singapore at NTU.



Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential, but adaptation strategies must also be considered. Governments must invest in flood defenses, sustainable urban planning, and disaster preparedness. 



Without such efforts, the world could soon face an era of climate-driven displacement on an unprecedented scale.



The future of coastal cities depends on immediate action. With each passing year of unchecked emissions, the likelihood of a submerged world grows more certain.



The research study was published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1029/2024EF005295">Earth's Future</a>.



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Major coastal cities around the world could disappear under rising seas by 2100

The idea of entire cities sinking beneath the waves might...

In the competitive world of business, we often hear that hard work, dedication, and skill are the key ingredients for career progress. But a new study has revealed an uncomfortable truth: being attractive might influence your career path more than late nights at the office.



Experts at the Institute for Operations Research and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Management&nbsp;Sciences (<a href="https://www.informs.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INFORMS</a>)&nbsp;in Baltimore have identified a strong connection between physical attractiveness and career success.



The experts analyzed the professional trajectories of over 40,000 MBA graduates and found that those who were considered more attractive earned up to 11 percent more than their "less attractive" colleagues. The findings also revealed that these individuals had a greater chance of securing prestigious job roles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-shapes-career-trajectory">Appearance shapes career trajectory </h2>



Professor Nikhil Malik, who led the research, highlighted the long-term impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-usually-end-up-with-partners-who-look-as-attractive-as-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">appearance</a> on career growth. 



"Appearance shapes not just the start of a career, but its trajectory over decades," he explained. "These findings reveal a persistent and compounding effect of beauty in professional settings."



Attractiveness is often considered a personal preference, but society tends to follow certain common beauty standards. These standards vary by culture, time period, and personal taste, but some traits are widely recognized as appealing. 



Facial symmetry, clear skin, and well-proportioned features are frequently associated with attractiveness. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attractive-employees-and-career-outcomes">Attractive employees and career outcomes </h2>



The concept that beauty impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/employees-need-vacations-to-fully-disengage-from-work/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">professional success</a> is not new. 



Many previous studies have shown that attractive individuals are often perceived as being more trustworthy, more competent as leaders, and even more intelligent. These assumptions can lead to advantages in hiring, promotions, and salary negotiations.



In the current study, the researchers sought to determine whether these perceptions influence long-term career outcomes. By analyzing data from more than 43,000 MBA graduates, the team used artificial intelligence to assess each participant’s attractiveness.



The researchers then tracked the graduates' salaries and job titles over a 15-year period to measure the impact of perceived appearance on professional success.



The results showed a clear pattern. Attractive graduates earned an average of 2.4 percent more than their less attractive peers, which translated to an additional $2,508 per year. The impact was even greater for the most attractive individuals. 



Those in the top 10 percent of the attractiveness scale earned over 11 percent more, which equated to a salary increase of $5,528 annually.



The researchers describe this phenomenon as the "beauty premium," a consistent advantage that attractive individuals receive in professional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-does-love-live-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environments</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attractive-people-have-a-better-career">Attractive people have a better career</h2>



Beyond salary differences, the study revealed that good-looking professionals were more likely to hold high-ranking positions within their industries. 



Fifteen years after graduation, attractive individuals were 52.4 percent more likely to have secured prestigious job roles compared to their less attractive peers.



However, the researchers found that the benefits of attractiveness varied significantly depending on the industry. Some fields placed a greater emphasis on social interaction, which amplified the effects of the beauty premium.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-professionals-in-various-fields">Professionals in various fields</h2>



Management and consulting industries, where client relationships and networking play a major role, demonstrated the highest correlation between attractiveness and career success. 



Professionals in these fields benefited the most from the beauty premium, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dating-apps-make-it-difficult-to-find-true-love/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attractive individuals</a> climbing the corporate ladder faster and securing leadership roles at a higher rate.



In contrast, industries that rely heavily on technical skills, such as IT and engineering, showed the lowest correlation between attractiveness and career success. In these fields, expertise and knowledge appeared to outweigh physical appearance in determining career progression.



"This research highlights how biases tied to physical appearance persist in shaping career outcomes, even for highly educated professionals," noted Professor Param Vir Singh, a co-author of the study.



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



While the study did not explore the specific reasons behind the beauty premium, some experts believe trust plays a key role in attractive individuals' career success.



Astrid Hopfensitz, a professor in organizational behavior at <a href="https://em-lyon.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EM&nbsp;Lyon&nbsp;Business&nbsp;School</a>, who was not involved in the study, provided insights into the psychological mechanisms that might explain these findings.



"It is thought individuals perceived as beautiful are also more likely to benefit from people's trust, which makes it easier for them to get promoted or to strike business deals," she explained.



Professor Hopfensitz further suggested that attractive individuals might be seen as healthier and as having had more positive social interactions in their past. These factors could contribute to their perceived trustworthiness, making others more willing to invest in their success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-employers-must-address-beauty-bias">Employers must address beauty bias</h2>



The findings of this study highlight the influence of unconscious biases on career progression.



While qualifications, experience, and dedication should be the primary factors in professional advancement, the research suggests that physical appearance can still shape career outcomes in significant ways.



Organizations and employers must acknowledge these biases and work towards fairer hiring and promotion practices. 



Implementing structured evaluation criteria, increasing awareness of unconscious biases, and ensuring transparency in decision-making processes could help mitigate the effects of the beauty premium.



The workplace should be a space where skills and expertise determine success rather than physical attributes. Recognizing and addressing these hidden biases can lead to a more equitable professional environment that allows individuals to progress based on their abilities rather than their looks.



The study was published online in the journal <a href="https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/abs/10.1287/isre.2021.0559?journalCode=isre">Information Systems Research</a>.



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Attractive people have more career opportunities and success

In the competitive world of business, we often hear that...

Over the past four decades, the rate at which global oceans absorb heat has surged dramatically. A recent study reveals that ocean warming rates have quadrupled since the late 1980s. 



During that earlier period, temperatures rose by roughly 0.06°C (0.11°F) per decade. Today, that rate has jumped to 0.27°C (0.49°F) per decade.



This acceleration offers a clear explanation for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-ocean-warming-in-2024-is-a-warning-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented ocean heat</a> observed in 2023 and early 2024, when global sea surface temperatures broke records for 450 consecutive days.



Professor Chris Merchant, lead author of the study and a researcher at the <a href="https://research.reading.ac.uk/meteorology/people/christopher-merchant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a>, likens the trend to a bathtub filling with hot water.



“In the 1980s, the hot tap was running slowly, warming up the water by just a fraction of a degree each decade. But now the hot tap is running much faster, and the warming has picked up speed,” Professor Merchant noted.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-energy-imbalance">Earth’s energy imbalance</h2>



The rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-is-subtly-changing-the-tides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heating of the oceans</a> is tied to Earth’s growing energy imbalance. This imbalance occurs when more solar energy is absorbed by the planet than is radiated back into space. 



Since 2010, this disparity has nearly doubled, driven by rising greenhouse gas concentrations and a decline in Earth’s ability to reflect sunlight. Factors such as melting polar ice and shifts in cloud cover have reduced the planet’s reflectivity, trapping additional heat in the climate system.



Oceans act as Earth’s primary heat sink, absorbing over 90% of this excess energy. The study highlights that 44% of the record-breaking ocean temperatures during the recent El Niño event - a natural climate phenomenon that warms the Pacific - can be attributed to this accelerated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-deja-vu-oceans-may-slow-down-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat absorption</a>.



Even when compared to the strong El Niño of 2015–2016, the 2023–2024 event stood out due to the oceans’ faster warming trend over the past decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influences-on-ocean-warming">Influences on ocean warming</h2>



While natural climate cycles like El Niño contribute to short-term temperature spikes, the study emphasizes that human activities are amplifying their effects. 



The 2023–2024 El Niño occurred against a backdrop of oceans already primed to absorb heat at unprecedented rates. The researchers found that sea surfaces have warmed so rapidly in recent years that even moderate natural variability now leads to extreme temperature records.



This synergy between human-driven warming and natural cycles has cascading impacts. Warmer oceans intensify hurricanes, disrupt rainfall patterns, and accelerate ice melt. 



For example, the 2024 California wildfire season was exacerbated by abnormally high ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-at-risk-global-warming-threatens-the-oceans-lifeline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>, which altered atmospheric moisture and wind patterns.



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



One of the study’s most striking conclusions is that the total ocean warming observed over the past 40 years could be matched - or surpassed - within the next 20 years.



Surface ocean temperatures, which play a critical role in regulating global climate, are rising at a pace that could push Earth toward irreversible tipping points. These include the collapse of ice sheets, the shutdown of ocean currents, and the dieback of vital ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest.



Temporary breaches of the 1.5°C (2.7°F) global warming threshold, such as those recorded in 2024, may soon become permanent without urgent action.



The UK Met Office notes that each fraction of a degree avoided could prevent catastrophic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-sediments-predict-the-impacts-of-ocean-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outcomes</a> for ecosystems and human societies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-warming-s-threat-to-marine-ecosystems">Ocean warming's threat to marine ecosystems</h2>



The consequences of ocean warming extend far beyond temperature records. Coral reefs, which support 25% of marine species, are experiencing mass bleaching events at an unprecedented scale. 



Warmer waters disrupt fish migration patterns, threatening global fisheries and food security. Species unable to adapt or relocate face extinction, while invasive organisms thrive in altered conditions.



Coastal communities are also at risk. Rising sea levels, driven by thermal expansion and ice melt, threaten low-lying regions. Saltwater intrusion into freshwater systems further strains resources for millions of people.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closing-the-hot-tap">Closing the “hot tap”</h2>



Professor Merchant stresses that slowing ocean warming requires “closing the hot tap” by rapidly reducing carbon emissions. 



Transitioning to renewable energy, protecting carbon-absorbing ecosystems like mangroves and peatlands, and adopting sustainable land-use practices are critical steps. Governments must prioritize policies that phase out fossil fuels and incentivize green technologies.



Individual actions also play a role. Reducing meat consumption, minimizing energy waste, and supporting climate-conscious policies can collectively drive systemic change. 



The study warns that delaying action will escalate costs - both economic and ecological - as climate disasters grow more frequent and severe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-ocean-warming">Consequences of ocean warming</h2>



Failing to curb emissions may lead to irreversible damage. The financial toll of climate disasters, from rebuilding after hurricanes to relocating displaced communities, could reach trillions of dollars annually by mid-century.



In contrast, investments in renewable energy and climate resilience offer long-term savings and job creation.



“Not doing it is more expensive,” said Merchant, pointing to the growing gap between current efforts and what is needed to stabilize the climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-race-against-time">A race against time</h2>



The study’s findings are a stark reminder that ocean warming is not a distant threat but an immediate crisis. Every year of delayed action allows the “hot tap” to run faster, compounding risks for future generations.



“The difference between 1.5°C and 2°C of warming could determine the survival of entire ecosystems,” noted Professor Rowan Sutton of the <a href="https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Met Office</a>’s Hadley Centre. The window to avert the worst impacts is narrowing, but it remains open - if societies act decisively.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/adaa8a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Research Letters</a>.



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Ocean temperatures have broken heat records for 450 straight days

Over the past four decades, the rate at which global...

In 2016, a quiet galaxy in the constellation Draco caught scientists’ attention with subtle flickers that hinted at unusual activity.&nbsp;



Today, in a 2025 follow-up <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad8651" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, astronomers have confirmed something astonishing: the presence of a <a href="https://astronomy.swin.edu.au/cosmos/*/Supermassive+Black+Hole" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermas</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-supermassive-black-holes-are-hidden-by-gas-and-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">s</a><a href="https://astronomy.swin.edu.au/cosmos/*/Supermassive+Black+Hole" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ive black hole</a> blasting out twin jets at nearly one-third of the speed of light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quiet-galaxy-sparks-new-interest">Quiet galaxy sparks new interest</h2>



The galaxy, designated <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/abs/2003/02/aah3775/aah3775.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1ES 1927+654</a>, sits about 270 million light-years away in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/cats-eye-nebula-in-the-constellation-draco/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco constellation</a>. It houses a central black hole estimated to be around 1.4 million times the mass of our Sun.



This cosmic powerhouse had seemed relatively subdued until multiple space- and ground-based telescopes picked up some dramatic changes.



Researchers noticed months-long boosts in X-ray emissions and, soon after this, powerful radio signals indicated a sudden outburst.



<a href="https://physics.umbc.edu/people/faculty/meyer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eileen Meyer</a>, from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, led a team that <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/universe/black-holes/supermassive-black-holes/astronomers-catch-unprecedented-features-at-brink-of-active-black-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">captured the radio flare</a> with high-resolution observations. 



They found what appear to be opposing jets of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/ionized-gas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ionized gas</a> that extended roughly half a light-year in total distance.



“The launch of a black hole jet has never been observed before in real time,” said Meyer at the <a href="https://aas.org/meetings/aas245" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">245th meeting</a> of the American Astronomical Society (<a href="https://aas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AAS</a>) in National Harbor, Maryland. 



Data suggest these jets emerged when X-ray activity started increasing, but thick layers of hot gas likely shielded them from view until they finally broke free last year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-x-ray-rhythms-from-black-hole-jets">X-ray rhythms from black hole jets</h2>



A separate team <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.01581" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studied</a> unexplained X-ray pulses, or <a href="https://www.uni-kassel.de/maschinenbau/en/institute/mechanik/fachgebiete/engineering-dynamics/research/quasi-periodic-oscillations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quasiperiodic oscillations</a>, that raced up and down in brightness by about ten percent every few minutes.&nbsp;



“One way to produce these oscillations is with an object orbiting within the black hole’s accretion disk,” said <a href="https://www.space.mit.edu/people/megan-masterson/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Megan Masterson</a>, a doctoral candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>).



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/supermassive-black-hole_twin-jets_draco_1ES-1927-654_Pan-STARRS_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/supermassive-black-hole_twin-jets_draco_1ES-1927-654_Pan-STARRS_nasa_1s.webp" alt="Active galaxy 1ES 1927+654, circled, has exhibited extraordinary changes since 2018, when a major outburst occurred in visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray light. The galaxy harbors a central black hole weighing about 1.4 million solar masses and is located 270 million light-years away. Credit: NASA/Pan-STARRS" class="wp-image-1958228"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Active galaxy 1ES 1927+654, circled, has exhibited extraordinary changes since 2018, when a major outburst occurred in visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray light. The galaxy harbors a central black hole weighing about 1.4 million solar masses and is located 270 million light-years away. Credit: NASA/Pan-STARRS</figcaption></figure>



The team found that these flares sped up from an 18-minute to a 7-minute cycle. They suspect an orbiting body may have been spiraling closer to the black hole, only to settle into a stable path once it had lost some of its own matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-view-of-a-bright-radio-flare">New view of a bright radio flare</h2>



Radio data revealed a flare about 60 times more intense than earlier readings, according to <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad8651" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a>. That flare accompanied the birth of what looks like a pair of jets that travel outward in opposite directions.



Researchers often see twin jets shooting from supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-massive-early-universe-black-hole-stuns-astronomers/">black holes</a>, but it is rare to spot the moment that they erupt.



Astronomers think that matter swirling around the black hole sometimes gets channeled by strong magnetic fields, and then builds up pressure until bursts of fast-moving plasma escape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-dwarf-near-the-event-horizon">White dwarf near the event horizon?</h2>



Many objects would be torn apart too quickly to create the repeated short timescale <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/x-ray-radiation-from-black-holes-explained-after-50-year-struggle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X-ray signals</a> at 1ES 1927+654. The best candidate for a resilient companion is a <a href="https://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/science/objects/dwarfs2.html#:~:text=A%20white%20dwarf%20is%20what,material%2C%20creating%20a%20planetary%20nebula." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a> - a stellar remnant about the size of Earth.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/supermassive-black-hole_twin-jets_draco_1ES-1927-654_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/supermassive-black-hole_twin-jets_draco_1ES-1927-654_nasa_1s.webp" alt="In this artist’s concept, matter is stripped from a white dwarf (sphere at lower right) orbiting within the innermost accretion disk surrounding 1ES 1927+654’s supermassive black hole. Astronomers developed this scenario to explain the evolution of rapid X-ray oscillations detected by ESA’s (European Space Agency) XMM-Newton satellite. Credit: NASA/Aurore Simonnet, Sonoma State University" class="wp-image-1958226"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In this artist’s concept, matter is stripped from a white dwarf (sphere at lower right) orbiting within the innermost accretion disk surrounding 1ES 1927+654’s supermassive black hole. Astronomers developed this scenario to explain the evolution of rapid X-ray oscillations detected by ESA’s (European Space Agency) XMM-Newton satellite. Credit: NASA/Aurore Simonnet, Sonoma State University</figcaption></figure>



According to <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.02340">research</a> led by <a href="https://science.gsfc.nasa.gov/sci/bio/sibasish.laha" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sibasish Laha</a> at UMBC and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, a white dwarf could gradually lose matter as the black hole’s immense gravity pulls it inward.



That slow leak of material might counteract the energy loss from gravitational waves, allowing the dwarf to maintain a (relatively) steady orbit in this violent neighborhood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-black-hole-jets">Observing black hole jets</h2>



If there is indeed a white dwarf locked in such a dance, it may be producing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-particles-solution-gravitational-wave-mystery-bose-einstein-condensate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational waves</a> that ripple out through space.



An upcoming mission called <a href="https://lisa.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LISA</a> (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) could potentially detect these signals, giving scientists another tool to study what happens near a supermassive black hole.



Researchers also hope to track the jets’ growth using advanced radio arrays capable of pinpointing shifting structures that are less than a light-year across.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-are-black-hole-jets-important">Why are black hole jets important?</h2>



Scientists are still working out why some black holes generate powerful jets while others remain radio-quiet. The flare at 1ES 1927+654 suggests that even black holes with lower masses can create jets if conditions are right.



Observers also wonder whether the jets will persist or fade back into obscurity. Regardless, this galaxy has emerged as a unique target that may clarify how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/">black holes</a> shape their surroundings through bursts of high-speed outflows.



This new study shows that a once-silent black hole can transform in surprising ways. 



Researchers will continue gathering data from space-based X-ray telescopes and radio observatories on Earth, looking for more clues about what triggers these explosive events.



By comparing ongoing measurements with earlier records, astronomers hope to piece together how matter near a black hole either falls in or jets out into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-galactic-explosion-provides-clues-about-galaxy-evolution/">intergalactic space</a>. 



The discoveries at 1ES 1927+654 underline the fact that black holes, even if quiet for centuries, can abruptly shift their behavior.



The study is published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad8651" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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This black hole just awoke and is blasting out twin jets at incredible speeds

In 2016, a quiet galaxy in the constellation Draco caught...

A new study led by geologists and geographers from the University of Florida provides new insights into Antarctic ice shelves and how they respond to climate change.&nbsp;



While warming temperatures are clearly driving a widespread loss of ice shelves, the study reveals that major iceberg calving events have not significantly increased in frequency or size.&nbsp;



Instead, smaller, more frequent calving events, which the authors describe as “death by a thousand cuts,” appear to be the main culprits in Antarctic ice shelf decline.



The findings have been published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2024GL112235" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>, and the research team was led by assistant professor of geological sciences Emma MacKie and assistant professor of geography Katy Serafin (both from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>), along with a collaborator from the <a href="https://www.mines.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado School of Mines</a>.



“Our results suggest that the primary threat to our ice shelves is ‘death by a thousand cuts’ via small calving events, rather than catastrophic extremes,” MacKie said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-temperatures-and-antarctic-ice-shelves-nbsp">Rising temperatures and Antarctic ice shelves&nbsp;</h2>



Calving refers to the process by which chunks of ice detach from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-melting-ice-shelves-threaten-global-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice shelves</a> to form icebergs. While this process has long been known to occur naturally, the role of climate change in speeding it up has attracted increasing scientific attention.&nbsp;



The most striking aspect of this new study is its finding that extreme, large-scale iceberg break-offs - although they capture headlines - are not happening more frequently or growing in magnitude due to global warming.



Throughout their survey, the researchers primarily observed a broad retreat of ice shelves associated with rising temperatures. However, these large calving events - where an iceberg exceeds 100 square kilometers - remain relatively rare.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-calving-events-are-rare">Large calving events are rare</h2>



The team delved into 47 years’ worth of satellite data, spanning 1976 to 2023, to uncover patterns in the frequency and size of large calving events. Despite this extensive timeframe, major calving events still numbered too few for standard statistical methods to paint a clear picture.&nbsp;



To address this, the team turned to extreme value theory, a statistical approach commonly used to study rare natural disasters like major floods or earthquakes.



Katy Serafin - an expert on extreme flooding - applied these established methods to the ice shelf data. “Statistical models relating event size and frequency are tools that have been used for estimating rare flood events, like a 100-year flood, for decades,” she explained.



“Now that satellite imagery can more consistently track large calving events, we thought we’d test whether we could apply the same tools for understanding how likely these massive calving events are.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giant-icebergs-are-not-increasing">Giant icebergs are not increasing</h2>



By applying extreme value theory to the available data, the researchers calculated the likelihood and potential size of large calving events.&nbsp;



They estimated that a once-in-a-decade iceberg could be around 6,100 square kilometers, comparable to a giant iceberg that broke off in 2017 (roughly the size of Delaware), while a once-in-a-century iceberg could measure as much as 45,000 square kilometers, an area larger than Denmark.



“A once in a century <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-largest-icebergs-are-not-linked-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg</a> would be several times larger than any in the observational record and would have a significant impact on ice-sheet stability and ocean processes,” said MacKie.



Despite these theoretical extremes, the researchers found no upward trend in the frequency or size of these major events over the last five decades.&nbsp;



Interestingly, the largest icebergs observed appeared between 1986 and 2000, suggesting that these rare break-offs are not directly tied to rising temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-real-threat-small-calving-events">The real threat: Small calving events</h2>



While dramatic, large icebergs do not seem to be increasing in tandem with climate change, smaller, more frequent calving events appear to be gradually eroding Antarctica’s ice shelves. 



The cumulative impact of these numerous small break-offs seems to be the main driver of ice shelf loss over the past 50 years.



This ongoing reduction in ice shelves - amplified by warmer conditions - poses long-term concerns for ice sheet stability and global sea levels.



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



The study’s findings carry significant consequences for climate modeling and predictions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-sea-levels-spiked-dramatically-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea level rise</a>. 



Contrary to public perceptions focusing on massive icebergs breaking away, the slow, continuous loss of ice could represent the more serious danger to polar regions.



Understanding these smaller, frequent calving events can help scientists improve models that forecast the future of ice shelves and enable policymakers to formulate more precise strategies for addressing the ramifications of ice melt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamics-of-antarctic-ice-shelves">Dynamics of Antarctic ice shelves</h2>



By revealing that large calving events are not growing in size or frequency, the study comes up with a new narrative on how Antarctic ice shelves are declining.&nbsp;



The emphasis shifts to the accumulative toll of small-scale calving. This highlights the value of long-term observational data and specialized statistical methods, such as extreme value theory, for discerning broader patterns in rarely observed phenomena.



Ultimately, the results warn that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rapid-surge-in-global-warming-may-have-an-unexpected-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rapid warming</a>, while not accelerating catastrophic iceberg release, is facilitating a steady thinning of ice shelves - a trend that remains a serious concern for Antarctica’s stability and the worldwide consequences of sea level rise.



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Giant icebergs are not the main threat to Antarctica’s stability 

A new study led by geologists and geographers from the...

The city of Sydney in Australia has gained new attention for something unexpected. Instead of sunbathers by the shore or bustling restaurant queues, curious groups have appeared at the Royal Botanic Garden to experience a "corpse flower." 



This flower is famous for being the largest bloom in the world, and for its overpowering odor. Some call it revolting; others call it mesmerizing. Either way, there’s no denying its draw.



The plant’s official name is <a href="https://gustavus.edu/academics/departments/biology/titanarum/faq.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amorphophallus titanum</a>, but its fans know it by a more colorful nickname: the corpse flower. Either way, its flowers have an odor that’s powerful enough to attract thousands.



<a href="https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/713188-emily-white" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Emily White</a>, a horticultural scientist at the <a href="https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Botanic Garden</a>, has studied rare tropical species for over a decade.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-irresistible-stench">An irresistible stench</h2>



This short-lived spectacle <a href="https://www.usbg.gov/gardens-plants/corpse-flowers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">only blooms</a> for about 24 hours every few years, when it releases a scent that many liken to the stench of rotting meat. 



Visitors report everything from hints of rancid socks to the smell of forgotten leftovers.



Staff members say nearly 20,000 people have navigated the winding pathways and stood patiently in line for a chance to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-the-corpse-flower-smell-like-rotting-flesh/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see (and smell) the flower</a> up close.



Native to the rainforests of western Indonesia, the corpse flower was discovered in 1878 by Italian botanist <a href="https://www.kew.org/plants/titan-arum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Odoardo Beccari</a>. 



It has intrigued plant enthusiasts ever since, partly because it grows from an underground corm that can weigh hundreds of pounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corpse-flower-blooms-for-just-one-day">Corpse flower blooms for just one day</h2>



To see the plant in bloom is a rare event. The flower only lasts about a day, meaning that people who wish to see and smell it need to rush to the garden before the bloom collapses. 



If you miss it, there’s no knowing when it might come around again.



The wait might be four or five years, or even longer. The staff extended visiting hours and accepted donations from fascinated guests, hoping to give everyone a chance to witness the ephemeral wonder before it faded.



By the next afternoon, the flower would be spent, and the pungent smell would vanish, leaving just a tall, withered structure behind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-the-corpse-flower-stink">Why does the corpse flower stink?</h2>



The smell may be disagreeable to humans, but it’s essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-orchids-have-fingers-to-pollinate-themselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>.



While most flowers use pleasant fragrances to lure bees or butterflies, the corpse flower’s stench entices flies and beetles that specialize in feeding on carrion.



These insects mistake the odor for that of a rotting carcass, crawl deep into the bloom, and help transfer pollen in the process. 



This trick is vital to the corpse flower’s reproduction, though it can seem downright repugnant to most people brave enough to get close.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-don-t-eat-the-fruit">Don't eat the fruit</h2>



Once pollination occurs, the flower produces bright red, round fruits that appear over the course of a few months. 



In the wild, they would be eaten by certain birds, like rhinoceros hornbills, which help disperse the seeds across the rainforest floor.



The fruits are poisonous to humans and not intended as a snack. Even if they form successfully, the plant requires substantial energy to generate them, so it usually remains dormant for years before attempting another bloom.



“We expect multiple corpse flower blooms per year,” states the <a href="https://www.usbg.gov/gardens-plants/corpse-flowers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Botanic Garden</a> on their official website, although they note that the timing is unpredictable.&nbsp;



Curious onlookers everywhere have tuned in to live feeds hosted by botanical institutions. Many gardens around the world keep at least one corpse flower in a specialized greenhouse, hoping for the day it sets off a flurry of excitement.



<a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/66511-largest-single-flower" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guinness World Records</a> shows that the tallest known specimen reached 10 feet 2 inches (just over 3 meters) when it bloomed in New Hampshire in 2010. 



The combination of size, smell, and rarity makes the corpse flower a consistent headliner whenever it decides to bloom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corpse-flower-conservation">Corpse flower conservation</h2>



Despite its fame in public displays, the corpse flower faces major challenges in nature. 



Environmental pressure has reduced the number of wild plants, and it is officially classified as Endangered by the <a href="https://nc.iucnredlist.org/redlist/amazing-species/amorphophallus-titanum/pdfs/original/amorphophallus-titanum.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Union for the Conservation of Nature</a>.



Intensive logging and conversion of the plant’s Sumatran habitat into palm oil plantations have taken a toll. 



Several botanic gardens cooperate on cross-pollination and seed-sharing programs to broaden the gene pool, including the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, Kew in London, and various U.S. institutions.



These programs aim to safeguard the species through <a href="https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110810104854504" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ex situ</a> conservation efforts, an important lifeline for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-earths-most-endangered-plants-from-extinction-proving-difficult-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants threatened</a> by habitat loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascination-for-all-ages">Fascination for all ages</h2>



The corpse flower isn’t just an oddity for expert gardeners. Families with kids on school breaks have dropped by the glasshouse to see - and sniff - something unlike any rose or lily.



Its short-lived bloom offers an unforgettable lesson in biodiversity. Even the worst smell can be a good teacher.



If the lines of visitors are any clue, plenty of people want to learn more about this plant’s unusual approach to survival. 



The spectacle reminds us that nature is full of surprises, and sometimes the most memorable experiences are the ones that leave your nose crinkled and your eyes wide.



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Corpse flowers smell like death, but thousands rush to see them bloom

The city of Sydney in Australia has gained new attention...

The,Astronaut,In,An,Outer,Space,,At,The,Iss,,Repairs

Sometimes, the most fascinating discoveries are not in the stars and planets that are light-years away. Instead, they lie in the microbes that somehow manage to hitch a ride on our spaceships - minuscule organisms that could reveal new insights into life’s resilience.



Understanding how these microbes survive the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harsh environment</a> of space is crucial for future exploration and planetary protection efforts. 



In addition, it is important that humans do not introduce microbes into space as a result of their activities.



The new <a href="https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/20230000435/downloads/Bell%20IEM%20EVA%20LPSC%202023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISS External Microorganisms</a> experiment lays the groundwork for a scientific expedition to sample areas of the ISS and determine whether microbes are present and, if so, how many of them there are.



These tiny stowaways may offer valuable data on microbial adaptation and potential risks for deep-space missions in future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-microbes-in-space">Invisible microbes in space</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronauts</a> are set to embark on spacewalks to collect samples near the life support system vents on the outside of the International Space Station in hopes of finding living microbes.



This location choice is driven by the curiosity to see whether the spacecraft might be emitting microorganisms into the cosmos and, if so, the nature and number of these microorganisms and the distance they may travel.



As the scientists carefully gather samples, the focus isn't just to count and classify these raw data. They want to learn how microbes can survive in space and which microbes are best able to do so.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-of-the-fittest">Survival of the fittest</h2>



How do these tiny life forms manage to survive and propagate in the hostile environment of space? Could they hold the secret to life on distant planets like the Moon or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-microbes-from-earth-could-survive-the-conditions-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>? 



These are the intriguing questions the research hopes to answer.



The ISS External Microorganisms experiment is particularly interested in a group of microbes known as "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extremophiles-and-the-quest-for-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extremophiles</a>."



These are robust survivors that continue to thrive in conditions that can be extremely harsh and improbable for life as we know it.



Their extraordinary resilience makes them subjects of great curiosity, not just for space research, but also for applications right here on Earth, in fields like pharmaceuticals and agriculture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-microbes-on-the-space-station">Monitoring microbes on the space station</h2>



Onboard monitoring of microbial communities within the ISS has been a longstanding project to ensure the health and safety of the crew.



Various methods, such as air and surface sampling, have helped researchers understand better how microbial populations evolve in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microgravity-causes-big-problems-with-human-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a> over time.



This internal tracking provides a controlled environment where scientists can study how microorganisms adapt to factors such as radiation, humidity, and temperature fluctuations in space.



With advanced tools, astronauts can now identify microbial strains directly in space, without the need to return samples to Earth.



These efforts have revealed that, while the space station remains remarkably clean, microbial presence is inevitable due to the constant exchange of supplies and human activity.



The findings from these studies have implications for designing better contamination control systems for future deep-space missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-microbes-and-space">Humans, microbes, and space</h2>



Spacecrafts and astronaut suits are meticulously sterilized before any mission to minimize the risk of biological contamination and to ensure the integrity of scientific investigations.



Yet, it's a well-known fact that humans carry their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individual microbiomes</a>, which consistently recreate diverse and dynamic microbial communities within the spacecraft environment.



Despite stringent sterilization protocols, these microbial hitchhikers can persist and even adapt to the unique conditions of space.



How successfully do current designs and methods curb or limit human contamination over extended missions and repeated spacewalks? 



Addressing this challenge is crucial, as microbial proliferation could impact both astronaut health and mission integrity.



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



The findings from this study could influence potential modifications to crewed spacecraft, including the materials and structures used in life-support systems, air filtration, and the suits worn by astronauts when exploring destinations where life may currently exist or could have existed in the past.



Understanding how microbes behave in space can inform strategies for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maintaining crew health</a> on long-duration missions to Mars and beyond.



Moreover, this research contributes to planetary protection efforts, ensuring that human missions do not inadvertently introduce Earth-based microbes to extraterrestrial environments.



Investigating the world of microbes on the space station has tremendous potential to access new knowledge and shape future research.



As scientists continue to explore the microscopic frontier, the search for microbial hitchhikers could redefine our understanding of life's resilience beyond Earth.



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Astronauts will search the exterior of the space station for living microbes

Sometimes, the most fascinating discoveries are not in the stars...

For decades, scientists have studied the moon’s surface to uncover its complex geological and evolutionary history. Evidence from the lunar maria - dark, flat areas filled with solidified lava - suggested that the moon experienced significant compression billions of years ago. 



Large, arching ridges on the moon’s near side were thought to be remnants of this ancient contraction, leading researchers to believe that the lunar maria had remained dormant ever since. However, a recent study published in&nbsp;The Planetary Science Journal challenges this long-held assumption.



Researchers at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.si.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian Institution</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;University of Maryland&nbsp;have discovered that the moon’s far side tells a different story - one of recent geological activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-ridges-on-the-moon-s-far-side">Young ridges on the moon’s far side</h2>



The study was led by Jaclyn Clark, an assistant research scientist in the University of Maryland’s Department of Geology. The findings reveal that small ridges on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-plans-to-build-a-moon-base-using-3d-printing-and-robots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>’s far side are significantly younger than those on the near side.



“Many scientists believe that most of the moon’s geological movements happened two and a half, maybe three billion years ago,” Clark said. 



“But we're seeing that these tectonic landforms have been recently active in the last billion years and may still be active today. These small mare ridges seem to have formed within the last 200 million years or so, which is relatively recent considering the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moons-entire-surface-is-covered-with-water-and-hydroxyl-not-just-the-poles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>’s timescale.”



Using advanced mapping and modeling techniques, the team identified 266 previously unknown small ridges on the moon’s far side. These ridges often appeared in groups of 10 to 40 within volcanic regions that likely formed 3.2 to 3.6 billion years ago. 



The researchers suggest that these areas may have underlying weaknesses in the moon’s surface, making them more susceptible to tectonic activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crater-counting-window-into-lunar-history">Crater counting: Window into lunar history</h2>



To estimate the age of these ridges, the team employed a technique called crater counting. 



“Essentially, the more craters a surface has, the older it is; the surface has more time to accumulate more craters,” Clark explained. 



By analyzing the number of craters around the ridges, the researchers found that some ridges cut through existing impact craters, indicating they were tectonically active within the last 160 million years.



This discovery challenges the notion that the moon’s geological activity ceased billions of years ago. Instead, it suggests that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-magma-ocean-molten-rock-found-moons-surface-south-pole-chandrayaan-3/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>’s interior may still be dynamic, with forces like the moon’s gradual shrinking and shifts in its orbit contributing to ongoing tectonic processes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forces-that-created-the-moon-ridges">Forces that created the moon ridges </h2>



Interestingly, the ridges on the moon’s far side share structural similarities with those on the near side. This suggests that both sets of ridges were created by the same forces, likely a combination of the moon’s gradual shrinking and changes in its orbit. 



The moon’s interior cooling over time causes it to contract, creating stress on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-recent-mini-moon-2024-pt5-seems-to-be-a-lost-fragment-of-our-real-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface</a> that forms these ridges.



The findings also provide a potential explanation for the shallow moonquakes detected by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/apollo/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apollo missions</a>&nbsp;decades ago. These moonquakes, which were previously unexplained, may be linked to the same tectonic activity that formed the recently discovered ridges.



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



The discovery of young ridges and potential ongoing tectonic activity has significant implications for future lunar exploration. As space agencies like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>&nbsp;and private companies plan missions to the moon, understanding its geological activity is crucial for ensuring the safety and success of these endeavors.



“We hope that future missions to the moon will include tools like ground-penetrating radar so researchers can better understand the structures beneath the lunar surface,” Clark said. 



“Knowing that the moon is still geologically dynamic has very real implications for where we’re planning to put our astronauts, equipment, and infrastructure on the moon.”



For example, areas with recent tectonic activity may pose risks for building permanent structures or landing spacecraft. By identifying these regions, scientists can help mission planners choose safer locations for lunar bases and other infrastructure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-significance-of-the-moon-s-ridges">Broader significance of the moon's ridges</h2>



The study not only reshapes our understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-the-moon-looks-100-million-years-younger-than-its-true-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon’s geological history</a> but also highlights the importance of continued exploration. By combining advanced technology with innovative research methods, scientists are uncovering new layers of complexity in our closest celestial neighbor.



Learning more about the moon’s geological activity can also provide insights into the evolution of other rocky bodies in the solar system. 



For instance, the processes that shape the moon’s surface may be similar to those on planets like Mercury or even some moons of Jupiter and Saturn.



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



As we prepare for future missions, including NASA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artemis program</a>, which aims to return humans to the moon by the mid-2020s, these discoveries will play a critical role in guiding exploration efforts. 



Tools like ground-penetrating radar and seismometers could provide even more detailed information about the moon’s interior and its ongoing activity.



The study also highlights the importance of international collaboration in space exploration. By working together, scientists from various institutions&nbsp;can pool their expertise and resources to unlock the moon’s many secrets.



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



The moon, long thought to be a geologically dormant world, is revealing itself to be far more dynamic than previously believed. The discovery of young ridges on the moon’s far side, along with evidence of recent tectonic activity, opens a new chapter in our understanding of lunar geology.



As we continue to explore the moon, these findings will not only enhance our scientific knowledge but also pave the way for safer and more successful missions. The moon, our closest celestial neighbor, still holds many mysteries waiting to be uncovered.



For more information on lunar research and upcoming missions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/topics/moon-to-mars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA’s Moon to Mars Exploration</a>&nbsp;initiative.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/PSJ/ad9eaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Planetary Science Journal</a>.



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Young ridges on Moon’s surface suggest that it is still active

For decades, scientists have studied the moon’s surface to uncover...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



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



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed 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://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

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Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

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A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

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.



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features 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



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



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

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

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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;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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

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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;



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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...

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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;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features 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



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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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



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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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)



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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