The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean, but much about their impact on marine life remains poorly understood. This is the conclusion of a new study from Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.&nbsp;



With sunscreen now integral not only to health care but also to various products - ranging from personal care to industrial materials - experts worry about the large-scale release of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-acid-in-our-skin-could-be-a-natural-sunscreen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compounds</a> into coastal waters and the long-term consequences for aquatic ecosystems.



“This review highlights the mindboggling range of sunscreen-derived chemicals that we know are released into coastal marine environments – and demonstrates that our understanding of the effects of these toxic compounds on marine organisms is surprisingly limited,” said co-author Frances Hopkins, a marine biogeochemist at the <a href="https://pml.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plymouth Marine Laboratory</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-sunscreen-pollution-enters-the-ocean">How sunscreen pollution enters the ocean</h2>



Sunscreens use UV filters - either organic (chemical-based) or inorganic (mineral-based) - to absorb or scatter ultraviolet rays. Beyond sunscreens, such filters are added to various items including shampoos, moisturizers, lipsticks, plastics, rubber, paint, and cement, helping protect them from solar damage.



Because of modern lifestyles, these compounds inevitably find their way into marine environments through direct and indirect exposure.&nbsp;



Direct exposure occurs when people swimming or diving carry sunscreen-laden water off their skin directly into the sea. Indirect exposure happens when residue is washed off during showers, laundering towels, and even through urine.&nbsp;



Additionally, recycled wastewater plays a role, as some agricultural practices use treated water or sludge, which can deposit UV filter contaminants into soil and eventually run off into rivers and coasts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-scale-of-sunscreen-pollution">Enormous scale of sunscreen pollution</h2>



Traditional wastewater treatment cannot effectively remove many UV filter chemicals. Data show organic UV filters in 95% of wastewater effluents and 86% of surface waters worldwide.&nbsp;



They have been found not only in tourist-heavy beach areas but also in remote regions like Antarctica and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trace-amounts-of-sunscreen-found-at-the-north-pole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arctic</a>, highlighting their pervasive reach.



As global sunscreen sales are projected to reach $13.64 billion by 2026, researchers estimate 6,000-14,000 tons of UV filters wash into coral reef zones every year.&nbsp;



Many filters, especially benzophenones, have been deemed persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. Benzophenone-3, in particular, is on the <a href="https://echa.europa.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Chemical Agency</a>’s watch list as a potential hormone disruptor.



“There are increasing amounts and varieties of sunscreens entering the environment, and contaminants occur in all possible combinations,” said Awadhesh Jha, a professor in genetic toxicology and ecotoxicology at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Plymouth </a>and the study’s senior author.&nbsp;



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-twilight-zone-stabilizes-the-marine-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food chain</a>, and the mechanisms through which they act at molecular and cellular levels, alone and in combination with other stressors.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-chemistry-with-unknown-effects">Complex chemistry with unknown effects</h2>



A single sunscreen can contain three to eight UV filter compounds, adding up to 15% of the product’s mass. Organic filters - up to 55 different types exist - work by absorbing UV radiation, while inorganic filters like titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) reflect it.&nbsp;



Each compound has different properties, toxicities, and solubilities, complicating efforts to understand how these chemicals behave once in the ocean.



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Pollution Bulletin</a>, involved a review of over 110 publications related to sunscreen, UV filters, and their ecological or toxicological impacts.&nbsp;



The researchers note that at least 25% of a sunscreen’s UV filters wash off during swimming, and a single busy beach can see up to 35 kilograms of sunscreen deposited into the water per day.



“We are essentially sitting on a ticking time bomb,” said study co-author Mahasweta Saha, a marine chemical ecologist at Plymouth Marine Laboratory. “It is crucial to exercise caution in introducing new substances, as they could exacerbate existing challenges.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-research-is-urgently-needed">More research is urgently needed</h2>



Despite broad commercial use, little is known about the long-term ecotoxicological effects of these compounds, especially regarding their potential to bioaccumulate in the food chain.&nbsp;



Marine ecosystems already face pressures such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-ocean-warming-in-2024-is-a-warning-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean warming</a>, acidification, marine heatwaves, and eutrophication. The addition of poorly understood chemicals could worsen the strain on marine organisms.



“It is therefore imperative that we understand their bioaccumulation potential across the food chain, and the mechanisms through which they act,” Jha emphasized. 



This includes gauging effects at the molecular level - understanding if they disrupt hormones, reproductive cycles, or growth - and how multiple stressors might interact to amplify harm.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precautionary-measures-are-needed">Precautionary measures are needed</h2>



The scientists call for coordinated, science-based policy actions to address the threats of sunscreen pollution.



They recommend improved wastewater treatments to remove UV filters, the development of biodegradable sunscreens, and enhanced monitoring to track sunscreen-derived pollutants in global coastal areas.



The study further recommends adopting a precautionary approach, acknowledging that while sunscreens protect human health, they also risk harming fragile marine life including corals, fish, and other sea creatures vital to the ecosystem.



Thus, as oceans become repositories for countless chemical compounds, unraveling the complex interactions among UV filters is critical. Failing to act could intensify existing stresses on marine habitats, with possible ramifications for seafood safety and the broader health of our planet’s waters.



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Sunscreen pollution is invading the ocean - with unknown consequences 

The chemicals in sunscreens are increasingly present in the ocean, but much about their impact on marine life remains poorly understood. This is the conclusion of a new study from Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.&nbsp; With sunscreen now integral not only to health care but also to various products - ranging from personal care to industrial materials - experts worry about the large-scale release of these compounds into coastal waters and the long-term consequences for aquatic ecosystems. “This review highlights the mindboggling range of...

Did you know that the most dangerous animal in the world isn't a lion, shark, or bear? It's the tiny, irritating, and potentially disease-carrying mosquito. These buzzing bloodsuckers aren't just a summer nuisance – they carry deadly diseases. And now, according to alarming new research, the mosquito problem could get a lot worse due to climate change.



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.lanl.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Alamos National Laboratory</a> have investigated how climate change might impact the spread of mosquitoes. The results paint a bleak picture, highlighting the potential for serious public health consequences.



"We found that all nine species in our model responded resiliently to climate change, which tells us that mosquito-borne disease will be a continued threat as the climate warms," noted study lead author Morgan Gorris.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-fuels-mosquito-spread">Climate change fuels mosquito spread</h2>



Put simply, as global temperatures rise, mosquitoes may find new territories to thrive in. And that translates to more people facing the risk of serious mosquito-borne illnesses.



Climate change is reshaping the world's ecosystems, and mosquitoes are adapting swiftly. In the Los Alamos National Laboratory study, scientists used computer models to predict how nine mosquito species would respond to rising temperatures. 



The findings revealed that six species would expand their geographical ranges, two would shift their ranges, and one would remain nearly the same.



For example, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, notorious carriers of diseases like dengue and Zika, will likely expand northward into new areas of North America. Other mosquitoes, like Culex quinquefasciatus, will extend their presence in the southern United States, increasing the risk of West Nile virus.



These changes could mean exposing new populations to diseases they haven't encountered before. Public health experts warn that communities need proactive strategies to handle this emerging threat. Increased surveillance, vaccination programs, and public education will be crucial in managing the risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-mosquito-predictions-due-to-climate-change">Global mosquito predictions due to climate change</h2>



Six of the nine studied mosquito species are projected to dramatically expand their territory. For instance, Aedes aegypti, known for spreading diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus, is expected to extend its range northward. Similarly, Aedes albopictus, a carrier of the same diseases, will likely expand north into regions currently unsuitable for mosquito habitation.



Two species may shift their ranges entirely, moving to new areas due to changing climate conditions. These mosquitoes will seek new regions that match their ideal temperature and humidity requirements, potentially bringing diseases to previously unaffected populations.



Additionally, only one of the species is likely to maintain a relatively unchanged geographical range. However, even for this species, the areas currently suitable for its survival are projected to become more favorable in the future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosquito-borne-diseases">Mosquito-borne diseases</h2>



Mosquitoes aren't just itchy pests; they transmit a range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-borne-diseases-are-a-growing-threat-in-a-warming-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a>:



Chikungunya: This disease is characterized by joint pain, fever, and rash. The joint pain can be severe and may last for several weeks, significantly affecting quality of life.



Dengue: Dengue can range from mild to severe. Symptoms include high fever, intense headaches, joint and muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, it can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be life-threatening without proper medical care.



West Nile Virus: Often mild, with symptoms like fever and fatigue, West Nile virus can cause severe neurological complications. In these cases, it may lead to encephalitis or meningitis, which can be fatal.



Yellow Fever: This disease causes fever, nausea, and muscle pain. In severe cases, it can lead to liver and kidney damage, resulting in jaundice (hence the name "yellow fever") and potentially fatal complications.



Zika Virus: Zika virus typically causes mild symptoms, such as rash, fever, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. However, it is notorious for its association with birth defects, such as microcephaly, when contracted during pregnancy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-impact-on-mosquito-habitats">Climate change impact on mosquito habitats</h2>



Warmer temperatures can accelerate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquito-biting-season-extended-by-light-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mosquito</a> lifecycle, resulting in faster breeding and larger populations. Higher temperatures reduce the time required for mosquitoes to develop from eggs to adults, leading to more generations of mosquitoes in a single season.



Milder winters also extend the active season for mosquitoes. With fewer cold periods to limit their activity, mosquitoes remain active for longer periods, increasing their chances to bite and potentially infect people with various diseases.



Furthermore, warmer temperatures can increase the transmission rates of mosquito-borne diseases. As mosquitoes digest blood meals more quickly in warmer climates, the time required for pathogens to develop inside mosquitoes shortens. This means mosquitoes can become infectious sooner and spread diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus at a higher rate.



Ultimately, the combination of faster breeding, larger populations, and longer active seasons heightens the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. "Knowing where mosquitoes will live in the future is important for understanding who is at risk for these diseases and taking the appropriate actions to protect health security," said Gorris.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do">What can we do?</h2>



While the science paints a concerning picture, it's important to remember that knowledge is power. Climate change is already happening, and it appears to be benefiting mosquitoes rather than hindering them. 



As temperatures rise and winters become milder, mosquitoes expand their territories and become active for longer periods. Consider the following:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personal-protection">Personal protection</h3>



Classic advice remains crucial:



<ul>
<li>Use insect repellent.</li>



<li>Wear long sleeves and pants.</li>



<li>Repair window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-effort">Community effort</h3>



Eliminating standing water, which serves as mosquito breeding grounds, is essential:



<ul>
<li>Empty forgotten pots with water.</li>



<li>Maintain swimming pools.</li>



<li>Clean stagnant birdbaths and gutters.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-initiatives">Public health initiatives</h3>



Increased mosquito monitoring and targeted control measures are vital:



<ul>
<li>Monitor mosquito populations to detect disease-carrying species.</li>



<li>Implement mosquito control programs, such as insecticide spraying.</li>



<li>Educate communities on prevention and protection strategies.</li>
</ul>



With climate change fueling the spread of mosquitoes, it's critical to get serious about staying protected. Staying informed and practicing smart preventive measures will help keep you and your loved ones shielded from the growing threat of mosquito-borne diseases.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667278224000208?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Climate Change and Health</a>.



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Mosquito habitats are expanding due to climate change

Did you know that the most dangerous animal in the...

Let's be honest – the whole idea of a "perfect" <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-often-feel-lonely-burnt-out-parenting-demands/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parent</a> is absurd. No matter how polished those Instagram snapshots or how organized your neighbor seems, no parent has it all together, all the time. Yet, the constant pressure to achieve some mythical ideal of perfect parenting is taking its toll on families everywhere and causing parental burnout in excess.



A new study from <a href="https://nursing.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University College of Nursing</a>, summarized in the report "The Power of Positive Parenting: Evidence to Help Parents and Their Children Thrive," shows how damaging this "perfect" parent obsession can be.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-burnout-epidemic-impacting-parents">Burnout epidemic impacting parents</h2>



"We have high expectations for ourselves as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/personality-traits-are-not-strongly-inherited-from-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parents</a>; we have high expectations for what our kids should be doing. Then on the flipside, you're comparing yourself to other people, other families, and there's a lot of judgment that goes on. And whether it's intended or not, it's still there," says Kate Gawlik, DNP, an associate clinical professor at Ohio State's College of Nursing, and one of the study's lead researchers.



The study revealed a truly startling fact: a whopping 57% of the 700 surveyed parents reported feeling burned out. So, what's behind this overwhelming feeling? 



Today's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-spend-the-most-time-on-devices-but-nature-offers-a-solution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parents</a> face a barrage of pressures, both from within and from society at large. They struggle to live up to their own ideals about what a "good parent" should be, while simultaneously feeling judged by others. The constant struggle to meet everyone's expectations - whether about keeping a spotless home, providing the perfect play experiences, or raising high-achieving children - is draining.



In our current society, achievement and success are celebrated (and sometimes even expected) from a very early age. This "culture of achievement" puts pressure on parents to push their kids to excel in all areas. They enroll children in multiple structured activities, hoping to give them every possible advantage. 



However, this often backfires, replacing relaxing family time and the freedom of unstructured play with stressful schedules and added pressure for everyone involved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-kids-beyond-parent-burnout">Impact on kids beyond parent burnout</h2>



Sadly, the problems don't stop with parental burnout. The study reveals worrying trends in children's mental health.



Parental burnout doesn't exist in a vacuum. The study found a direct link between burned-out parents and a greater likelihood of their children developing mental health issues. Children of these parents were more likely to experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health challenges.



When parents are feeling completely overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted, it's incredibly difficult to respond to their children's needs with patience and understanding. Burnout can lead to harsh verbal reactions fueled by anger or criticism. 



It can even, in some cases, lead to physical punishment. These negative interactions are deeply harmful, further escalating the child's mental health struggles and creating a vicious cycle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-parenting-a-better-way-to-handle-parental-burnout">Positive parenting: A better way to handle parental burnout</h2>



So, what's a tired, well-meaning parent to do? The Ohio State experts say forget about perfection. Instead, focus on "positive parenting" with a few key strategies:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-over-chaos">Connection over chaos</h3>



Instead of striving for a picture-perfect home, focus on building strong, loving relationships with your children. This means making time for genuine conversations, active listening, and shared experiences. 



Accept that sometimes – maybe even often – the house will be a little messy in favor of those precious moments of connection.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-catch-negative-thoughts">Catch negative thoughts</h3>



Parenting is full of doubt: "Am I doing this right?" or "Am I failing as a parent?" It's easy for such worries to spiral into negative self-talk and unrealistic expectations that set you up for failure. 



Develop the habit of recognizing negative thought patterns. Actively challenge them and replace them with kinder, more realistic internal narratives.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-re-adjust-priorities">Re-adjust priorities</h3>



Take an honest inventory of how you and your family spend your time and energy. Are there commitments or obligations that are draining your family's happiness without bringing true fulfillment in return? Don't be afraid to give yourself permission to let those things go, freeing up valuable time and emotional space for the things that truly matter.



"'Positive parenting is when you give your children a lot of love and warmth, but you also provide structure and guidance in their life. You gently teach them consequences of behaviors. So that is a much better goal to shoot for being a positive parent than a perfect parent,'" explains Dr. Bernadette Melnyk, vice president for health promotion and chief wellness officer at Ohio State.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-care-isn-t-selfish">Self-care isn't selfish</h2>



It's like the old "put your oxygen mask on before assisting others" advice on airplanes. "As parents, we can't keep pouring from an empty cup. If children see their parents taking good self-care, the chances are they're going to grow up with that value as well. It has a ripple effect to the children and to the entire family," notes Dr. Melnyk.



Let's cut this "perfect parent" myth down to size. You are not failing if you sometimes feel lost or tired. Parenting is hard! What truly matters is being present, loving, and modeling healthy behaviors for your child. "I would much rather have a happy kid than a perfect kid," says Gawlik.



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Parents report excess burnout due to unrealistic expectations

Let's be honest – the whole idea of a "perfect"...

The simple act of water freezing holds more complexity than initially meets the eye. While we often take the formation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/control-ice-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a> for granted, there are surprising aspects to this transformation, from supercooled states to the captivating phenomenon of dendritic crystal growth. These spectacular observations are documented in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24TB1vPuzIU" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">video</a> from the American Chemical Society. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supercooled-water-and-ice-nucleation">Supercooled water and ice nucleation</h2>



Water has the expected behavior of freezing at its standard freezing point of 32°F/0°C. However, under specific conditions, you can cool pure water below this temperature and it will remain in a liquid state. We term this unstable condition "supercooled" water.



For water to transition from a supercooled liquid to <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/ice-earths-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a>, a process called nucleation must occur. Nucleation is essentially the formation of a tiny ice crystal that serves as a "seed" around which other water molecules can align and freeze, resulting in the familiar solid state of ice. Even the smallest disturbance, such as a speck of dust or a vibration, can provide the impetus for nucleation to begin, leading to rapid freezing.



While the overall concept of supercooling and nucleation is understood, scientists still grapple with the exact processes that trigger nucleation events at a molecular level. Understanding these intricacies promises to offer better control over ice formation and its prevention when necessary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accidental-discovery-of-ice-formation">Accidental discovery of ice formation</h2>



The phenomenon of supercooled water, where it remains liquid even below its usual freezing point, has long fascinated scientists. It recently gained renewed public attention thanks to the curiosity of an individual named All George. 



His quest to create crystal-clear ice cubes led to an accidental rediscovery of dendritic crystal growth – a stunning process where ice forms in intricate, branching patterns. First observed centuries ago, this process continues to captivate researchers today.



The diverse ways in which water freezes still hold an element of surprise for scientists. Understanding the conditions and intricate patterns of ice formation offers valuable insights into the fundamental forces of physics and chemistry.



Ice research has deep relevance for various scientific fields. In meteorology, it aids in the prediction of weather patterns. In cell biology, it plays a crucial role in techniques like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biobanking-historic-initiative-aims-to-genetically-rescue-endangered-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cryopreservation</a>. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0JFSVUv19E-3606556-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dendritic-growth-in-ice-formation">Dendritic growth in ice formation</h2>



When supercooled water contains even the slightest impurities, it can undergo a fascinating transformation as it begins to freeze. These impurities serve as nucleation points where ice crystals can start to form. 



As the freezing process initiates, it gives rise to delicate, branching structures called dendrites. These dendritic crystals are highly intricate and grow in fractal-like patterns that can extend in many directions, mimicking the shape of tree branches.



This dendritic growth is responsible for the cloudy or spiky appearance often observed in ice cubes. In pure water, freezing would typically result in a clear ice block because there are fewer sites for ice crystals to nucleate and grow in an unrestricted fashion. 



However, the presence of impurities disrupts this process, leading to the formation of multiple nucleation points. As a result, the crystals grow in numerous directions, colliding and intertwining with each other, which scatters light in various directions, thereby giving the ice its cloudy or textured appearance. 



This visual phenomenon not only highlights the intricate beauty of natural processes but also illustrates how minute changes in environmental conditions can drastically alter the physical structure of water as it freezes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-clear-ice">Challenge of clear ice</h2>



Creating pristine, clear ice cubes presents a significant challenge due to the natural occurrence of dendritic growth during the freezing process. Typically, when water freezes, it contains various impurities that act as nucleation points where ice crystals begin to form. 



As the water solidifies from all sides simultaneously, these dendritic ice crystals develop, spreading in complex, branch-like patterns. This scattered growth leads to the formation of cloudy and uneven ice, rather than the clear, smooth cubes desired for aesthetic presentations.



To achieve the crystal-clear ice often used in high-end restaurants, bars, and luxury events, specialized techniques must be employed that carefully control both the presence of impurities and the direction in which the ice freezes.



To remove impurities, the water used for these clear ice cubes often undergoes a process of filtration or distillation. This step is crucial because it eliminates the minerals and particulates that serve as nucleation points for dendritic growth. With fewer impurities, the water is less prone to forming the cloudy structures associated with regular ice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-directional-freezing">Directional freezing</h2>



In addition to purifying the water, controlling the freezing direction plays a pivotal role in achieving clarity. By using a method called directional freezing, the water is frozen slowly from one direction, typically from the top down. 



This controlled approach allows air and remaining impurities to be pushed downwards and out of the ice, rather than being trapped within, forming the unwanted cloudy appearance. The technique mimics the natural formation of lake ice, which is typically clear due to the slow freezing process under insulated conditions.



These specialized methods, while more time-consuming and requiring more precise equipment than typical ice-making, result in stunningly clear ice cubes that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of drinks but also melt more slowly due to their density, providing a functional benefit in cocktail presentation and enjoyment.



George's accidental discovery highlights the fact that even commonplace phenomena can harbor hidden depths. The study of ice continues to provide valuable insights into physics, chemistry, and the natural world. 



As we better understand the complexities of ice formation, we expand our knowledge with applications in a wide array of fields.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society



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Unexpected beauty revealed in ice formation

The simple act of water freezing holds more complexity than...

Hitting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gym-air-quality-is-impacted-by-reactions-of-sweat-and-bleach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gym</a> is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle for many. But as you're focusing on reps and cardio, have you ever considered what's in the air you're breathing? 



A recent study led by Professor Yele Sun from the<a href="http://english.iap.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences</a> delves into this question, revealing some surprising findings about the air quality in a typical basement gym. The study highlights potential health concerns for gym-goers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gym-air-quality">Gym air quality</h2>



Professor Sun and his team's decision to investigate gym air quality stemmed from their firsthand experiences exercising in a basement gym. 



"Thinking back to the pandemic, my colleagues and I made a point of hitting the gym in our institute's basement more often," said Professor Sun. "Couldn't help but wonder what the air quality would be like with everyone breaking a sweat down there.”



The team's primary goal was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the types and amounts of air pollutants present within the gym setting.



Their core research strategy involved a direct comparison between the air quality inside the gym and that of outdoor air samples. This comparative approach would allow them to identify any significant differences in pollutant composition and concentration between the two environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-organic-aerosols-impact-gym-air-quality">Organic aerosols impact gym air quality</h2>



The study revealed that the gym's air contained a significantly higher percentage of organic aerosols (OA) than outdoor air. These microscopic particles, composed of organic compounds, made up about 50% of the gym's indoor air content, compared to around 40% outside. 



The finding suggests that exercising in the gym exposes individuals to a higher concentration of organic aerosols than being outdoors.



The researchers identified two specific types of organic aerosols that were notably elevated within the gym's atmosphere:



Siloxane OA (SiOA): These particles are believed to come from lubricants used to maintain gym equipment. The study found that SiOA levels sometimes reached as high as 6 micrograms per cubic meter of air. This indicates that gym equipment might be releasing tiny, potentially harmful particles into the air as people exercise.



Cigarette Smoke OA (CSOA): Despite the gym's strict no-smoking policy, traces of cigarette smoke were detected in the gym's air. Researchers believe these particles are likely transported from outdoor sources through the ventilation system. This means even non-smokers could be inhaling cigarette smoke particles while working out.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-this-mean-for-gym-enthusiasts">What does this mean for gym enthusiasts?</h2>



The discovery of these pollutants in gym air underscores a possible downside associated with exercising indoors. Although regular physical activity undoubtedly provides numerous health advantages, the act of inhaling these particles, particularly during the accelerated breathing that accompanies exercise, raises concerns about potential negative health effects. 



Further research is crucial to determine the precise long-term impact of exposure to pollutants within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cut-your-gym-time-in-half-by-lowering-weights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gym</a> environment. It is vital to recognize that air quality across different gyms will not be consistent. 



Several factors play a significant role in determining the overall concentration of pollutants within the air of a gym. These include the specific types of equipment present, the number of individuals exercising at the same time, and the efficiency of the facility's ventilation system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-the-risks-from-gym-air">Minimizing the risks from gym air</h2>



While the results of the study highlight a need for awareness, it's crucial to remember the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. Here are some strategies to help balance workouts with gym air quality concerns:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gym-selection">Gym selection</h3>



If you have the option, choose gyms recognized for having effective ventilation systems. When weather permits, incorporating outdoor workouts into your routine can be a great way to directly minimize exposure to indoor pollutants.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-your-workouts">Timing your workouts</h3>



Whenever possible, aim to exercise at your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/negative-thinking-exercise-harmful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gym</a> during less crowded hours. This can help reduce the overall concentration of airborne particles within the space.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-quality-management-in-gym">Air quality management in gym</h3>



Engage in open communication with the management of your gym about your air quality concerns. Express the importance of regular equipment maintenance and advocate for exploring potential improvements to their ventilation systems.



The study sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of gym environments. It highlights the importance of awareness and the potential for gyms to improve air quality for their patrons. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.4c00288" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology Letters</a>.



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Working out at the gym? You may need to check the air quality

Hitting the gym is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle...

Researchers have identified a pattern of brain activity that helps prevent us from getting lost, described by scientists as a neural compass. 



This discovery sheds light on how the human brain orientates itself in space and navigates through the environment, providing new insights into the complex workings of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brains-spatial-map-rewards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural circuitry</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pinpointing-the-location-of-the-neural-compass">Pinpointing the location of the neural compass</h2>



The study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, was conducted by a team of researchers at the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> and <a href="https://www.lmu.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ludwig Maximilian University</a> of Munich. 



They were able to pinpoint the location of an internal neural compass within the human brain, which is comparable to the neural codes identified in rodents.



"Keeping track of the direction you are heading in is pretty important. Even small errors in estimating where you are and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elderly-people-lost-disoriented/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">which direction</a> you are heading in can be disastrous," emphasized Dr Benjamin J. Griffiths, the lead author of the study



"We know that animals such as birds, rats and bats have neural circuitry that keeps them on track, but we know surprisingly little about how the human brain manages this out and about in the real world," he continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-challenges-in-measuring-neural-activity">Overcoming challenges in measuring neural activity</h2>



Measuring neural activity in humans while they are moving is a challenging task, as most technologies require participants to remain as still as possible. However, the researchers overcame this challenge by using mobile EEG devices and motion capture technology.



In the study, a group of 52 healthy participants took part in a series of motion-tracking experiments while their brain activity was recorded via scalp EEG. 



This allowed the researchers to monitor brain signals from the participants as they moved their heads to orientate themselves to cues on different computer monitors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-hippocampus-and-neighboring-regions">Exploring the hippocampus and neighboring regions</h2>



In a separate study, the researchers monitored signals from 10 participants who were already undergoing intercranial electrode monitoring for conditions such as epilepsy. 



This allowed them to record data from the hippocampus and neighboring regions, which are crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-spatial-awareness-decisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">navigation and orientation</a>.



The tasks prompted participants to move their heads, or sometimes just their eyes, and brain signals from these movements were recorded from EEG caps and intracranial EEG (iEEG).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isolating-finely-tuned-directional-signals-in-the-neural-compass">Isolating finely tuned directional signals in the neural compass</h2>



After accounting for confounds in the EEG recordings, such as muscle movement or position of the participant within the environment, the researchers were able to show a finely tuned directional signal. This signal could be detected just before physical changes in head direction among participants.



"Isolating these signals enables us to really focus on how the brain processes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/good-sense-smell-direction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">navigational information</a> and how these signals work alongside other cues such as visual landmarks," Dr Griffiths explained.



"Our approach has opened up new avenues for exploring these features, with implications for research into neurodegenerative diseases and even for improving navigational technologies in robotics and AI," he concluded.



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



The identification of head direction signals within the brain has implications for understanding diseases such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticide-exposure-increases-the-risk-of-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-disease-earliest-biomarker-protein-psd-95-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's</a>, where navigation and orientation are often impaired. 



By gaining a better understanding of how the brain processes navigational information, researchers can potentially develop new approaches for treating these conditions.



In future work, the researchers plan to apply their learning to investigate how the brain navigates through time, to find out if similar neuronal activity is responsible for memory. 



This could lead to further breakthroughs in our understanding of the complex workings of the human brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-for-the-brain-s-neural-compass">Next steps for the brain’s neural compass</h2>



In summary, this study highlights exciting new directions for understanding how the human brain navigates through space and time using its neural compass.



By isolating finely tuned directional signals within the brain, the researchers have taken a significant step towards unraveling the mysteries of spatial cognition and memory. 



Their findings shed light on the complex workings of the brain's internal compass and hold promise for future research into neurodegenerative diseases and advancements in navigational technologies. 



As scientists continue to explore the intricate neural pathways that guide us through our environment, we move closer to unlocking the secrets of the human brain and its remarkable ability to orient and navigate in the world around us.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01872-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Humans have an internal GPS system called a 'neural compass' used for navigation

Researchers have identified a pattern of brain activity that helps...

In a recent study utilizing the capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>), an international team of astronomers focused on young stellar objects within the NGC 346 cluster. 



Situated in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/open-star-cluster-in-the-small-magellanic-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Small Magellanic Cloud</a>, this vibrant open cluster is recognized as the most luminous star-forming region in the nearby dwarf galaxy, located approximately 202,000 light-years from Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Young stellar objects: The early stages of stars</h2>



Young stellar objects (YSOs) represent early stages in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-discover-a-new-way-that-stars-die/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life cycle of stars</a>, encompassing phases from protostars to pre-main sequence (PMS) stars.



These objects typically reside within dense molecular clouds rich in gas and interstellar material, making them ideal subjects for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/ullyses-will-explore-the-evolution-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>.



The research was led by Nolan Habel from NASA's <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a>. The team used JWST's advanced Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) and Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to delve deeper into the secrets of NGC 346. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A treasure trove of stellar data in NGC 346</h2>



The research uncovered a wealth of data, revealing 203,891 unique sources within the cluster using NIRCam and MIRI. Of these, 196 were confidently identified as YSOs and PMS stars, earmarked for more detailed spectroscopic analysis. 



Additionally, 833 objects displayed significant mid-infrared excess, hinting at their identity as young stellar objects, which are often found near areas dense with diffuse dust and gas.



"In this paper, we present JWST imaging data of NGC 346 from 1.15–25.0 µm and provide an overview of the populations in the region, particularly the young populations, as determined from photometric analysis," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detailed-spectral-analysis">Detailed spectral analysis</h2>



Further investigations involved spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting on 77 sources, which pinpointed 23 objects as young stellar objects with high certainty. 



These YSOs exhibited a broad range of sizes and masses, with radii stretching from 0.14 to 82.32 solar radii and masses between 0.95 to 4.15 solar masses. Their bolometric temperatures also varied widely, ranging from 2,051 to 17,930 Kelvin.



The study highlighted one particularly notable young stellar object, designated CN202153, recognized as the least massive extragalactic YSO confirmed thus far. 



The team suggested that further near-infrared spectroscopic studies with JWST are essential to refine our understanding of these 23 specifically identified young stellar objects.



The research not only enriches our comprehension of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/messier-82-unlocking-the-mysteries-of-star-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> in distant clusters but also underscores the invaluable role of advanced telescopes like the JWST in unraveling the complexities of the universe. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Young stellar objects&nbsp;</h2>



Young stellar objects form in dense regions of molecular clouds, where gravity pulls gas and dust together, leading to the accumulation of material that eventually becomes hot and dense enough to initiate nuclear fusion. 



The process begins with a protostar, which is the core that forms within a collapsing cloud of gas and dust, and is often obscured from view by the surrounding dense material.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Various stages </h3>



As a young stellar object continues to gather mass from its parent molecular cloud, it may go through various stages characterized by different amounts of accretion and outflow of material.&nbsp;



These stages include the deeply embedded Class 0 and Class I phases, which are mostly visible in infrared and radio wavelengths due to their thick dust envelopes. In later stages, such as Class II and Class III, the object becomes visible in optical wavelengths as it clears away its surrounding envelope.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Active accretion&nbsp;</h3>



Young stellar objects are often associated with phenomena such as Herbig-Haro objects, which are jets of gas ejected by the star that collide with the surrounding medium, creating visible shock waves. These are indicators of active accretion. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protoplanetary-disks">Protoplanetary disks </h3>



Another characteristic feature of YSOs is the presence of protoplanetary disks, rings of gas and dust that orbit the young star and can eventually form planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-young-stellar-objects">Studying young stellar objects </h2>



Observing YSOs can provide insights into the magnetic activity, stellar winds, and outflows that characterize the early lives of stars, which are much more active compared to their later stages.



Studying young stellar objects is crucial for understanding the processes that lead to star and planet formation and provides insights into the conditions of the early solar system.



The study is published as a preprint in the journal <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2404.16242" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arXiv</a>.



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Young stellar objects: Observing the early lives of stars

In a recent study utilizing the capabilities of the James...

A team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.ohsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon Health Science University</a> (OHSU) has found significant risks associated with the combined use of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-cannabis-use-disorder-risk-varies-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a> and nicotine during pregnancy.&nbsp;



The research highlights a greater likelihood of poor outcomes for newborns when both substances are used together compared to using either independently throughout pregnancy.



“These findings suggest that co-occurring maternal use of cannabis and nicotine products in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of infant and neonatal death and maternal and neonatal morbidity compared with use of either substance alone,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



“Given the increasing prevalence of combined cannabis and nicotine use in pregnancy, these findings can help guide health care practitioners with preconception and prenatal counseling, especially regarding the benefits of cessation.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combined-use-of-substances-during-pregnancy">Combined use of substances during pregnancy</h2>



What is particularly concerning, according to the researchers, is that half of individuals who use cannabis in pregnancy also use tobacco or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabidiol-could-help-cure-nicotine-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nicotine</a> products. 



“Numerous studies have demonstrated the detrimental effects of prenatal tobacco exposure, primarily nicotine exposure, on perinatal outcomes, including prematurity, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Currently there is a paucity of epidemiological data regarding the effects of combined prenatal exposure to both cannabis and nicotine products.”



“Emerging evidence indicates that cannabis use exacerbates the negative impacts of nicotine product exposure, and dual abstinence may result in better outcomes following cessation.”



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



Study senior author Jamie Lo is an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at OHSU.&nbsp;



“With the growing legalization of cannabis around the country, there is often a perception that cannabis is safe in pregnancy,” said Professor Lo.



“Because we know that many people who use cannabis often use tobacco or nicotine products, we wanted to better understand the potential health implications on both the pregnant individual and the infant.”



“There is still a great deal of stigma around the use of substances during pregnancy,” she added. “With limited research to support official clinical recommendations, it can be a difficult topic for both patients and providers to navigate. Our hope is that this research supports more open and productive conversations that ultimately result in a healthier pregnancy.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-higher-rate-of-infant-mortality-nbsp">Higher rate of infant mortality&nbsp;</h2>



The research team analyzed data from over three million pregnant individuals, identifying significant increases in adverse outcomes such as small for gestational size, preterm delivery, and infant mortality when both cannabis and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-nicotine-tobacco-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nicotine</a> were used.&nbsp;



Most notable was the rate of infant death, which was found to be four times higher in users of both substances compared with non-users. Moreover, the rate was almost two times higher compared with users of just cannabis or nicotine alone.



These findings will likely have a significant impact in future counseling and educational efforts in prenatal care.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decreasing-the-pregnancy-risks-nbsp">Decreasing the pregnancy risks&nbsp;</h2>



“Our findings suggest that avoiding use of just one of these substances can decrease the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/there-is-no-safe-level-of-caffeine-for-pregnant-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy risks</a> we see when both substances are used together, which is a critical piece of information providers can highlight when counseling patients,” said lead author Adam Crosland, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at OHSU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-adverse-outcomes-nbsp">Mitigating adverse outcomes&nbsp;</h2>



The research also incorporated insights from other experts at OHSU, including Eliot Spindel and Cindy McEvoy, who are investigating methods to mitigate adverse outcomes among children born to parents who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-who-smoke-just-one-cigarette-a-day-are-likely-addicted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoke</a>.&nbsp;



One intervention highlighted is the supplementation of vitamin C to pregnant smokers, which has shown to significantly improve respiratory outcomes in offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-and-nicotine-during-pregnancy-nbsp">Cannabis and nicotine during pregnancy&nbsp;</h2>



Looking ahead, the researchers aim to delve deeper into the effects of dual substance use during pregnancy, examining variables such as potency, frequency, and timing, to better educate pregnant patients about the associated risks.&nbsp;



The team also plans to continue exploring viable prenatal interventions, like vitamin C supplementation, to aid individuals who struggle to quit smoking during pregnancy.



“These findings suggest that more effective public health measures and counseling prior to conception and during pregnancy are warranted to mitigate the potential for adverse offspring outcomes from combined prenatal cannabis and nicotine use,” wrote the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.10151" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



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Cannabis and nicotine use during pregnancy linked to infant mortality

A team of researchers led by Oregon Health Science University...

The coming decade is set to witness a surge in lunar exploration, with numerous missions planned to explore and establish a presence on our natural satellite. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lunar-anthropocene-how-humans-have-impacted-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new era</a> will require a unified system for keeping time in order to ensure seamless communication and navigation among the various missions operating on and around the Moon.



The discussion, which began at ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/About_Us/ESTEC/European_Space_Research_and_Technology_Centre_ESTEC2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESTEC</a> technology center in the Netherlands last November, is part of a broader effort to establish a common 'LunaNet' architecture for lunar communication and navigation services.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-a-common-moon-time-reference-point">Importance of a common moon time reference point</h2>



“<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2021/lunanet-empowering-artemis-with-communications-and-navigation-interoperability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LunaNet</a> is a framework of mutually agreed-upon standards, protocols and interface requirements allowing future lunar missions to work together, conceptually similar to what we did on Earth for joint use of GPS and Galileo,” explains Javier Ventura-Traveset, ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2021/05/Moonlight_-_Navigation_and_Telecommunications_for_the_Moon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moonlight Navigation</a> Manager.



"Now, in the lunar context, we have the opportunity to agree on our interoperability approach from the very beginning, before the systems are actually implemented," he continued.



ESA navigation system engineer Pietro Giordano adds, "During this meeting at ESTEC, we agreed on the importance and urgency of defining a common lunar reference time, which is internationally accepted and towards which all lunar systems and users may refer to. A joint international effort is now being launched towards achieving this."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-keeping-time-on-the-moon">Challenges of keeping time on the Moon</h2>



Currently, each new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-has-launched-a-spacecraft-to-the-far-side-of-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mission to the Moon</a> operates on its own timescale exported from Earth. Deep space antennas are used to keep onboard chronometers synchronized with terrestrial time while facilitating two-way communications. However, this approach will not be sustainable in the upcoming lunar environment.



The <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Exploration/Gateway" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gateway station</a>, once complete, will be open to astronaut stays and resupplied through regular NASA Artemis launches. 



Meanwhile, numerous uncrewed missions will also be in place, with each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grow-plants-on-moon-by-2026-nasa-artemis-iii-mission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artemis mission</a> releasing numerous lunar CubeSats. ESA will also be deploying its Argonaut European Large Logistics Lander.



These missions will not only be operating simultaneously on or around the Moon but will also be interacting with each other, potentially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-will-build-a-surveillance-network-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relaying communications</a>, performing joint observations, or carrying out rendezvous operations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moonlight-lunanet-and-lunar-timekeeping">Moonlight, LunaNet, and lunar timekeeping</h2>



ESA is developing the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Applications/Connectivity_and_Secure_Communications/Moonlight" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moonlight program</a>, a lunar communications and navigation service that will allow missions to maintain links to and from Earth and guide them around the Moon and on its surface. 



Wael-El Daly, system engineer for Moonlight, explains, "Moonlight will need a shared common timescale in order to get missions linked up and to facilitate position fixes."



<a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> is also sponsoring an equivalent service called the Lunar Communications Relay and Navigation System (<a href="https://esc.gsfc.nasa.gov/projects/LCRNS/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LCRNS</a>). To maximize interoperability, these two systems should employ the same timescale, along with the many other crewed and uncrewed missions they will support.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lunar-time-lessons-from-earth-s-gps-satellites">Lunar time lessons from Earth's GPS satellites</h2>



Interoperability of time and geodetic reference frames has been successfully achieved here on Earth for Global Navigation Satellite Systems. All of today's smartphones are able to make use of existing GNSS to compute a user position down to meter or even decimeter level.



"The experience of this success can be re-used for the technical long-term lunar systems to come, even though stable timekeeping on the Moon will throw up its own unique challenges – such as taking into account the fact that time passes at a different rate there due to the Moon's specific gravity and velocity effects," explaines Jörg Hahn, ESA's chief Galileo engineer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debate-on-setting-and-maintaining-moon-time">Debate on setting and maintaining moon time</h2>



Among the current topics under debate is whether a single organization should be responsible for setting and maintaining lunar time and whether lunar time should be set independently on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moon-is-shrinking-moonquakes-potential-problems-for-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> or kept synchronized with Earth.



The international team working on this subject will face considerable technical issues. For example, clocks on the Moon run faster than their terrestrial equivalents, gaining around 56 microseconds per day. Their exact rate depends on their position on the Moon, ticking differently on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-want-to-put-fiber-optic-cables-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar surface</a> than from orbit.



"Of course, the agreed time system will also have to be practical for astronauts. This will be quite a challenge on a planetary surface where in the equatorial region each day is 29.5 days long, including freezing fortnight-long lunar nights, with the whole of Earth just a small blue circle in the dark sky," says Bernhard Hufenbach, a member of the Moonlight Management Team from ESA's Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration.



But having established a working time system for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/china-aims-to-use-lunar-caves-to-build-an-underground-moon-base/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Moon</a>, we can go on to do the same for other planetary destinations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-a-common-frame-of-reference">Need for a common frame of reference</h2>



To work together effectively, the international community will also need to agree on a common 'selenocentric reference frame', similar to the role played on Earth by the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/site/jsgt/jtrf/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ITRF</a>). 



This allows for the consistent measurement of precise distances between points across our planet and is an essential ingredient of today's GNSS systems.



"Throughout human history, exploration has actually been a key driver of improved timekeeping and geodetic reference models," Javier Ventura-Traveset adds.



"It is certainly an exciting time to do that now for the Moon, working towards defining an internationally agreed timescale and a common selenocentric reference, which will not only ensure interoperability between the different lunar navigation systems, but which will also foster a large number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-designs-nuclear-fission-reactor-to-provide-electricity-on-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research opportunities</a> and applications in cislunar space," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-rewards-of-keeping-time-on-the-moon">Challenges and rewards of keeping time on the moon</h2>



In summary, as we stand on the cusp of a new era in lunar exploration, the international space community must come together to establish a unified timekeeping system and a common selenocentric reference frame. 



These essential components will ensure seamless communication, navigation, and collaboration among the numerous missions set to operate on and around the Moon in the coming years. 



By working towards an internationally agreed-upon lunar timescale and a standardized reference frame, we will pave the way for successful lunar exploration while advancing a wealth of research opportunities and applications in cislunar space. 



The time has come to synchronize our efforts and create a robust foundation for the future of lunar exploration and discovery.



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Knowing what time it is on the Moon isn’t as easy as it may seem

The coming decade is set to witness a surge in...

Wave,Function,Series.,Artistic,Background,Made,Of,Colored,Sine,Vibrations,

A new theory has emerged from the theoretical realm of quantum physics, offering a glimpse into the behavior of the fundamental particles that makes up our world. 



This breakthrough, which defies previous assumptions, has the potential to revolutionize the design of <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 computers</a> and pave the way for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-controlled-at-room-temperature-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">room-temperature</a> superconductors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pulci-the-cat-meets-quantum-dynamics">Pulci the cat meets quantum dynamics</h2>



Berislav Buca, a researcher at the <a href="https://nbi.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niels Bohr Institute</a> of the University of Copenhagen, is the architect behind this mind-bending theory. Published in the prestigious journal Physical Review X, Buca's work delves into the nearly impossible using "exotic" mathematics. 



His muse, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/pulci-cat_buca_Niels-Bohr_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white cat named Pulci</a>, perhaps a cousin of Schrödinger's famous cat, adorns the illustrations of his research, with arrows through the cat's body symbolizing the quantum mechanical origin of its movements.



"Many physics disciplines are ultimately about explaining and predicting the world by understanding the laws of physics and calculating the behavior of the smallest particles. In principle, we would be able to answer any possible question about how all sorts of things behave if we were able to," says Buca.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Schrödinger's Cat: A thought experiment in quantum mechanics</h2>



For a moment, let's revisit the most famous cat in quantum physics and how it relates to Buca's work. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computing-break-internet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schrödinger's Cat</a> is a thought experiment proposed by Austrian physicist Erwin Schrödinger in 1935. 



It was designed to illustrate the paradoxical nature of quantum superposition, a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics.



The thought experiment involves a hypothetical cat, a flask of poison, a radioactive source, and a Geiger counter, all placed inside a sealed box. 



The radioactive source has a 50/50 chance of decaying within an hour, which would trigger the Geiger counter. If the Geiger counter detects the radioactive decay, it shatters the flask, releasing the poison and killing the cat.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The paradox</h3>



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-chemical-complexity-of-quantum-decoherence-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a>, the radioactive source is in a superposition of decayed and non-decayed states until it is observed. Consequently, the cat is said to be simultaneously alive and dead until someone opens the box and observes its state. 



This contradicts our everyday understanding of reality, where an object can only be in one state at a time.



The Copenhagen Interpretation suggests that the cat is neither alive nor dead until it is observed, and the act of observation collapses the superposition into a definite state. 



The Many-Worlds Interpretation posits that the cat is both alive and dead, existing in parallel universes that split at the moment of observation. 



Objective Collapse Theories propose that the superposition collapses spontaneously due to some objective physical process, such as gravity, without the need for observation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Misconceptions and significance</h3>



Schrödinger's Cat is often misunderstood as a real experiment. However, it is purely a thought experiment and has never been conducted in reality. 



The experiment was not meant to suggest that cats can be both alive and dead, but rather to highlight the counterintuitive nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-chemical-complexity-of-quantum-decoherence-finally-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum superposition</a> when applied to everyday objects.



This thought experiment -- which, undoubtedly inspired Buca's to create his cat, Pulci -- has sparked ongoing debates about the nature of reality and the role of observation in quantum mechanics. 



It has also inspired various philosophical discussions about the relationship between the observer and the observed, as well as the nature of consciousness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-quantum-particles">Complexity of quantum particles</h2>



Turning our attention back to Buca, despite the potential to understand the behavior of everything in the universe from the microscopic laws governing particle dynamics, he emphasizes the need for caution. 



The interactions and movements of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/graviton-like-particle-observed-in-quantum-material-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum particles</a> in their systems are incredibly complex, with even the world's most powerful supercomputers only able to perform calculations on a dozen particles at a time.



"So in practice, it isn't possible. Not currently. However, my theory is a significant step in the right direction," explains Buca. 



"This is because it takes a kind of mathematical shortcut to understanding the dynamics of the whole, without computing power being lost in the details for a broad class of systems with many quantum particles. That is, without the need to calculate all of the individual particles in a system," he continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guiding-the-hunt-for-quantum-particles">Guiding the hunt for quantum particles</h2>



Buca's theory has already made a name for itself by providing the first mathematical proof of the eigenstate-thermalization hypothesis -- a long-held assumption in theoretical physics that had yet to be explained mathematically. This hypothesis concerns the ability of mathematics to describe the motions of quantum systems as wholes.



The implications of this research extend beyond the realm of theoretical physics. The knowledge gained from Buca's theory could potentially lead to the discovery of quantum materials with unique properties that could transform our world. These materials are crucial for the development of stable quantum computers and room-temperature superconductors.



"We are looking for a material for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-quantum-computer-design-makes-them-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computers</a> that can withstand entropy -- a law of nature that causes complex systems -- e.g., materials -- to decay into less complex forms. Entropy destroys the coherence needed for quantum computers to be stable and keep working," Buca explains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-road-map-for-researchers">Road map for researchers</h2>



Buca's theory provides a road map for researchers, guiding them across the vast landscape of possible materials by allowing for predictions of how these materials would behave under experimental conditions. 



This breakthrough gives researchers a way to target their search for quantum materials equipped with special properties.



"Until now, the hunt for these materials has been governed by chance. But my results can, for the first time, provide a guiding principle to navigate by when searching for unique properties in materials," says Buca.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accomplishing-the-impossible-with-quantum-particles">Accomplishing the impossible with quantum particles</h2>



In summary, Berislav Buca's pioneering theory in theoretical physics opens up a world of possibilities, offering a mathematical shortcut to understanding the dynamics of quantum systems and guiding researchers in their search for quantum materials with extraordinary properties. 



As we stand on the brink of a new era in quantum computing and materials science, Buca's work provides a roadmap for navigating the complex landscape of quantum particles and their interactions. 



With the potential to revolutionize fields ranging from computing to superconductivity, this research brings us one step closer to unlocking the secrets of the universe and transforming our world through the power of quantum mechanics.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prx/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevX.13.031013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review X</a>.



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Impossibility paradox: Calculating the incalculable in the quantum realm

A new theory has emerged from the theoretical realm of...

Human,Body;,3d,Illustration

Our bodies are miraculous machines, governed by a complex orchestra of internal clocks. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circadian-medicine-light-therapy-could-help-millions-of-heart-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain clocks</a>, known as circadian rhythms, tell our muscles when to repair, our skin when to regenerate, and our metabolism when to power up or down. 



But what happens when these rhythms get out of sync? Recent studies suggest that's a recipe for premature <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> – and that good communication between your brain and muscles might be the key to slowing it all down.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-suprachiasmatic-nucleus-scn">Suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)</h2>



Deep within your brain lies a small but crucial structure called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). This region functions as your body's master clock, playing a pivotal role in regulating your brain and muscle circadian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-in-an-infant-gut-have-their-unique-circadian-rhythms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhythms</a>. 



Think of it as a control center that's highly attuned to changes in light throughout the day. The SCN processes this light information and uses it to maintain a roughly 24-hour internal schedule that influences a wide range of bodily functions.



The SCN doesn't work in isolation. It communicates constantly with a network of 'mini clocks,' or peripheral clocks, embedded within various organs, your muscles, and even your skin. 



This intricate communication system involves the SCN sending out signals to coordinate the timing of essential processes throughout your body. 



By keeping these peripheral clocks in sync, the SCN ensures a harmonious rhythm of sleep-wake cycles, hormone production, body temperature regulation, and much more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-muscle-circadian-connection-to-aging">Brain-muscle circadian connection to aging</h2>



As we age, our internal timekeeping mechanisms can become less precise. Scientists believe that the signaling between our central <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-circadian-disturbances-trigger-mental-health-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain clock</a> and the peripheral clocks throughout our tissues may deteriorate over time. This disruption has far-reaching implications for our health.



Recent research emphasizes the vital communication network between your brain's central clock and the clocks embedded in your muscles and skin. If this communication falters, it can lead to a cascade of problems. 



Muscle tissue becomes susceptible to breakdown and wasting, leading to weakness and reduced function. At the same time, skin cells may struggle to maintain their regenerative cycles, hindering their ability to repair damage effectively.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-disrupts-brain-muscle-circadian-communication">Aging disrupts brain-muscle circadian communication</h2>



To understand the effects of disrupted communication between the brain and muscles, scientists studied mice with a genetic modification that interfered with a critical muscle clock gene called Bmal1. 



In these mice, the absence of Bmal1 function led to symptoms of premature <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-diet-puts-the-brakes-on-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a>, including significant muscle deterioration and weakness. 



Remarkably, when researchers restored the Bmal1 gene function in both the brain and muscle tissues, the mice showed notable improvements in muscle health. The coordination between the brain and muscle clocks helped prevent further muscle deterioration and restored muscle strength.



This experiment underscores the critical interplay between the brain's central clock and the clocks within your muscles. Maintaining proper communication across this network seems to be a vital factor in preventing age-related muscle decline and preserving strength as you get older.



"It is fascinating to see how synchronization between the brain and peripheral circadian clocks plays a critical role in skin and muscle health, while peripheral clocks alone are autonomous in carrying out the most basic tissue functions,"&nbsp;says&nbsp;Aznar Benitah from the <a href="https://www.irbbarcelona.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute for Research in Biomedicine</a> Barcelona in Spain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-meal-timing">Importance of meal timing</h2>



Scientists uncovered that restricting eating times for mice to their active phase at night partially compensated for a disrupted central brain clock. This change in feeding pattern helped strengthen their muscle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-exercise-affects-the-body-at-different-times-of-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clocks</a> and boost their ability to function independently.



This discovery highlights the remarkable adaptability of our biological clocks. It suggests that even if the master clock in the brain becomes less precise, positive lifestyle changes can help. A consistent meal schedule could help optimize the internal rhythms within muscle tissue.



This opens the door to exploring how simple changes to our daily routines could support muscle health and potentially influence the aging process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-towards-healthy-aging-through-brain-muscle-clocks">Path towards healthy aging through brain-muscle clocks</h2>



While there's still much to learn about the intricate dance between our brain and muscle circadian clocks, these landmark studies offer invaluable insights and a hopeful outlook on how we can optimize our health as we age. Here's a deeper look at the takeaways and how you can implement them:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-routine">Power of routine</h3>



A predictable daily rhythm supports your body's natural master clock. Aim for a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. This regulates the production of sleep-inducing hormones and keeps everything in sync. Scheduling meals at regular intervals reinforces a healthy pattern for peripheral clocks which aids in metabolism and other key functions.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protect-your-sleep-sanctuary">Protect your sleep sanctuary</h3>



Darkness is crucial for optimal sleep and proper circadian clock function. Make sure your bedroom is as dark, cool, and quiet as possible. Invest in blackout curtains, use a sleep mask, and consider minimizing electronic devices in the bedroom. Avoid stimulating activities right before bed and instead incorporate a relaxing wind-down routine like reading or taking a warm bath.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-schedule-matters">Eating schedule matters</h3>



Your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">muscle</a> clocks may benefit significantly from a set eating pattern. Time-restricted feeding, where you eat your meals during a specific window each day (usually 8-12 hours), gives your body a longer fasting period. This fasting window can promote processes like cellular repair and optimize circadian rhythms in various tissues.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tune-in-to-body-s-cues">Tune in to body's cues</h3>



Chronic fatigue, weakness, and difficulty regaining muscle strength – even with exercise – may point to a disruption in your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-moonlight-affects-the-circadian-clocks-of-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internal rhythms</a>. Don't hesitate to consult with your doctor if you notice a persistent lack of energy or a decline in physical function. They can help you determine if optimizing your circadian patterns could boost your well-being.



Remember, taking small, consistent steps to work with your body's natural rhythms can have a profound effect on your energy levels, muscle health, and overall vitality, potentially unlocking a path towards healthier aging.



The study is published in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj8533" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell/abstract/S1934-5909(24)00140-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Stem Cell</a>.



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Syncing brain and muscle circadian rhythms slows aging

Our bodies are miraculous machines, governed by a complex orchestra...

In the “sky islands” of the Soutpansberg Mountains in South Africa, two small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/if-primates-go-extinct-so-will-their-parasites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> of primates vie for territory amidst a challenging climate. 



The first, the thick-tailed greater galago (Otolemur crassicaudatus), resembles a sizable cat and is notable for its piercing cries. The second, the southern lesser galago (Galago moholi), is notably smaller, with prominent ears and eyes, small enough to nestle comfortably in one's hand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-it-comes-to-climate-adaptation-size-matters">When it comes to climate adaptation, size matters</h2>



Michelle Sauther, a primatologist at the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado Boulder</a>, has delved into an important question through her research on these species: How does an animal's size influence its ability to adapt to extreme temperatures? Her findings indicate that small primate species, such as the lesser galago, might struggle more as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures</a> continue to rise.



“Body size really does affect everything,” Sauther said. “How big you are affects your life history. It affects when you reproduce. It affects how long you live.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-little-relief-from-environmental-stresses-nbsp">Little relief from environmental stresses&nbsp;</h2>



The experts examined the distinct ecosystem within the <a href="https://www.lajuma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lajuma Research Center</a> in the Soutpansberg Mountains. This area is known for its diverse flora and sharp temperature fluctuations, ranging from frosty winters to summers that soar to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.



During their nighttime expeditions, Sauther and her team observed the behavior of both greater and lesser galagos. They noted that the lesser galagos, unlike their larger counterparts, seemed compelled to forage continuously, regardless of extreme temperatures, leaving them little relief from environmental stresses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-climate-change">Implications of climate change</h2>



“In conservation, we tend to focus a lot on lemurs, gorillas, chimpanzees,” Sauther said. “But we also have to think about the implications of climate change for these smaller and nocturnal species, which most people don’t know much about.”



The scientists’ method involved nocturnal walks through the reserve over the course of a year, totaling 75 nights. They used red lights to spot the reflective eyes of galagos and thermal imaging to study them in their arboreal habitat.



“At night, because you can’t see much, you start hearing all these things that you just would never hear otherwise - a lot of insects, a lot of animal calls,” Sauther said. “Once in a while, you’ll run into a leopard.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metabolic-needs-of-small-primates-nbsp">Metabolic needs of small primates&nbsp;</h2>



The findings revealed that while greater galagos were more active during moderate temperatures, lesser galagos were observed to be active across a broader range of temperatures, from as high as 79 degrees Fahrenheit to below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.



This behavioral difference, Sauther believes, is tied to metabolic needs. Lesser galagos, due to their small size and fast metabolism, must continuously seek food, whereas greater galagos have the capacity to store more fat, allowing them to rest during less favorable conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-pressures-on-small-primates-nbsp">Increasing pressures on small primates&nbsp;</h2>



The pressures on both species are increasing, with threats from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitat-fragmentation-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitat fragmentation</a> and the exotic pet trade, yet neither is currently recognized as endangered.



Sauther hopes that this study will prompt further research and awareness of these often-overlooked creatures. “We’re worried about these stealth changes that may be happening among species like these. We hear a lot from people, ‘I used to see them a lot on my farm, but now I don’t,” she concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-small-primates-nbsp">More about small primates&nbsp;</h2>



Small primates, such as tamarins and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emerging-threat-rabies-virus-from-marmosets-found-in-brazilian-bats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marmosets</a>, lead dynamic lives deeply intertwined with the forest ecosystems they inhabit. These creatures are predominantly arboreal, spending most of their time in the treetops where they adeptly navigate the canopy, leaping and climbing with remarkable agility. 



This high perch not only offers safety from ground-based predators but also positions them well to exploit the rich resources available above the forest floor.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-foraging">Diet and foraging</h3>



The diet of these small primates is varied and opportunistic, consisting of fruits, insects, and sometimes small vertebrates. This diversity necessitates a wide range of foraging techniques, from picking fruits and digging for insects to skillful hunting of small animals.&nbsp;



Their foraging practices are not just a means of sustenance but also a way of interacting with their environment, which stimulates their cognitive abilities and helps maintain their physical health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-lives">Social lives</h3>



Social structures among small primates are equally complex and fascinating. Many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-early-primates-lived-in-pairs-and-were-not-solitary-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> live in tight-knit groups that communicate with a rich repertoire of vocalizations, facial expressions, and body postures. These groups are critical for mutual protection and the rearing of young, with members often participating in cooperative care of the offspring.



Living in such groups also requires and reinforces complex social behaviors, including alliance formation, conflict resolution, and social learning, which are essential for survival in the often harsh and competitive environment of the wild.&nbsp;



These intricate social systems and their active, engaged lifestyles make small primates key components of their ecological niches, contributing significantly to the biodiversity of their habitats.



The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10764-024-00427-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Primatology</a>.



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Small primates struggle more with extreme temperatures

In the “sky islands” of the Soutpansberg Mountains in South...

The ocean's abyssal depths, a realm of perpetual darkness and immense pressure, harbor unique ecosystems still shrouded in mystery. This remote world, once seemingly devoid of life, is now of heightened interest due to extensive mineral deposits on the seafloor – prompting the rise of deep-sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-poses-unknown-threats-to-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a>. Yet, a critical tension exists between the potential economic gains and the largely unknown environmental risks to these vast, unexplored habitats of marine world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-mining-and-marine-life">Deep-sea mining and marine life</h2>



To understand the potential impacts of deep-sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-upheaval-the-ecological-impact-of-deep-sea-mining/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a>, scientists often turn to filter-feeding organisms like sponges and brittle stars. These animals play important roles in deep-sea ecosystems and are uniquely vulnerable to the effects of mining-related pollution. 



Sponges act as powerful "living filters," processing large volumes of water to extract tiny food particles and dissolved nutrients. This filtering activity makes them susceptible to ingesting any contaminants suspended in the water column. 



Brittle stars, closely related to starfish, play a different yet equally vital role. As they move across the seafloor, they ingest and redistribute sediment, playing a key role in nutrient cycling within the deep-sea ecosystem. Close interaction with the seafloor means they could accumulate pollutants released from disturbed sediment.



Because these organisms rely on filtering the surrounding environment for sustenance, they are particularly susceptible to pollutants introduced by mining activities. This sensitivity makes them valuable indicators for scientists. By monitoring changes in their health, behavior, or tissue chemistry, researchers can gain insights into the spread and ecological effects of mining-related contamination.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seafloor-massive-sulfide">Seafloor massive sulfide</h2>



A recent study by researchers at <a href="https://www.wur.nl/en.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wageningen University &amp; Research</a> and the <a href="https://www.uib.no/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bergen</a> underscores the cause for concern about the impacts of deep-sea mining. To understand the potential effects of mining activities, they carefully simulated the sediment plumes that would likely be generated during operations. 



The researchers exposed the common deep-sea sponge Geodia barretti and its associated brittle stars to crushed seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits. SMS deposits are naturally occurring mineral formations found on the seafloor that contain high concentrations of commercially valuable metals like copper, zinc, and gold. 



The potential economic value of SMS deposits makes them prime targets for deep-sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noise-from-deep-sea-mining-may-stretch-hundreds-of-miles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mining</a> operations. However, disturbing these deposits would release large clouds of sediment into the surrounding water, impacting marine life.



"The adverse effects observed on Geodia barretti and associated species signal potential disruptions in benthic-pelagic coupling processes, necessitating further research and to establish guidelines for protection of this deep-sea fauna," stated research leader and marine biologist Erik Wurz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-troubling-life-of-marine-animals-by-deep-sea-mining">Troubling life of marine animals by deep-sea mining</h2>



The study revealed concerning results regarding the potential impact of deep-sea mining on marine life. Sponges exposed to the simulated mining plume exhibited a tenfold increase in tissue death compared to the control group. This dramatic rise in mortality suggests a significant negative impact on the health of these organisms.



In addition, all of the brittle stars exposed to the crushed SMS deposits perished within ten days of the experiment. While the exact cause of death requires further investigation, the researchers believe it's likely linked to exposure to toxic metals released by the crushed material. This rapid mortality rate raises serious concerns about the ability of deep-sea ecosystems to recover from mining activities.



To further investigate the impact of mining particles, the researchers analyzed the tissues of the exposed sponges. They found significantly higher concentrations of iron and copper compared to unexposed sponges. 



This accumulation of metals within the filter feeders demonstrates their vulnerability to ingesting and retaining pollutants released during deep-sea mining operations. The study highlights the potential consequences of large-scale mining activities on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-damage-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep-sea</a> ecosystem, particularly for filter-feeding organisms like sponges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-disruption-matters">Why the disruption matters</h2>



Deep-sea ecosystems are unique in several ways that make them exceptionally vulnerable to disturbance. Unlike many land-based or shallow-water ecosystems, organisms in the deep sea are adapted to environments where food resources are scarce and temperatures are near freezing. This leads to extremely slow growth rates and long lifespans for many deep-sea species. 



As a result, populations may take decades or even centuries to recover from even minor disruptions. Additionally, the various organisms within these ecosystems are often tightly interconnected in complex food webs. Removing or harming one species can have significant ripple effects for others that depend on it for food, shelter, or other ecological services.



Deep-sea mining operations pose a specific threat to these habitats. Large-scale mining activities could disrupt or alter the natural cycles of nutrients within the deep-sea environment. 



The sediment plumes created by mining could also smother the seafloor, burying organisms vital to the food web and altering the physical environment that many deep-sea species rely on for survival. 



These disruptions could have long-lasting and potentially irreversible consequences for the overall health of these delicate deep-sea habitats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-assessment">Urgent need for assessment</h2>



"[These results] underscore the urgent need for comprehensive assessments of deep-sea mining impacts on marine ecosystems," said Wurz. Before large-scale mining becomes widespread, a thorough understanding of its potential consequences is crucial. 



Researchers need more data on deep-sea biodiversity, the dispersal of mining plumes, and the resilience of these slow-growing ecosystems to disturbance. This information is essential for informed decision-making about both the scale and appropriate locations for mining activities.



The regulation of deep-sea mining falls under the International Seabed Authority, charged with balancing potential commercial interests with responsible environmental stewardship in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The scientific community, together with responsible industries and policymakers, have a duty to ensure the sustainable use of deep-sea resources.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0967063724000815?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers</a>.



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Deep-sea mining has deadly consequences for marine life

The ocean's abyssal depths, a realm of perpetual darkness and...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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



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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



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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 



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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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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

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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



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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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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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 history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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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.

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

[sendtonews key="vpljfR2VBX-2560867-12187" 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> some of the most incredible waves in the world, as seen by Landsat satellites.



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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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.

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

[sendtonews key="MHyhtebibJ-2200368-12187" 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> describes why satellite images and measurements of our planet have become "essential to our survival, offering a new outlook of our world."&nbsp;



Rising sea levels pose one of the biggest societal threats associated with climate change. According to ESA, satellite altimeter missions such as Copernicus Sentinel-6 are essential in monitoring global and regional changes in sea level.



"Unbeknown to many, the island of Crete, Greece, plays an important role in the Copernicus satellite altimetry constellation and on an international stage," reports ESA.



"Satellite altimetry data have to be continuously monitored at the ESA’s Permanent Facility for Altimetry Calibration where different techniques have pioneered the use of transponders to provide the best measurements to validate satellite altimeters in space soon after launch."



Dr. Craig Donlon explains that, by understanding planet Earth through satellite measurements, we are able to find evidence of change.&nbsp;



Video Credit: European Space Agency&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

Satellites have become essential to our survival

[sendtonews key="761m2QQvR1-2035772-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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