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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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World's smallest pacemaker is set to revolutionize heart health

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

A recent study suggests that our shopping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/buyers-are-willing-to-pay-more-for-products-made-with-passion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habits</a> have changed surprisingly little in the past 3,500 years. 



Unearthing the roots of our modern economy, archaeologists from the <a href="https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Göttingen</a> in Germany and the University of Salento in Italy have discovered evidence suggesting that our ancestors managed their day-to-day finances much like we do today.



Dr. Nicola Ialongo of Göttingen's Institute for Prehistory and Early History, played a crucial role in this groundbreaking research. 



Dr. Ialongo and his team meticulously analyzed over 20,000 metal objects from more than 1,000 ancient hoards. The artifacts, once buried in Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia and Germany, date back to between 2,300 BC and 800 BC.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-budgeting-and-shopping-habits">Budgeting and shopping habits</h2>



Imagine a pile of metallic fragments acting as your wallet - that doesn't sound too secure, does it? But, it's precisely this ancient form of currency that the researchers studied.



By applying statistical techniques, they discovered that fragments of metal were intentionally broken down into multiples of a standard weight unit - roughly 10 grams.



This uniformity, say the experts, strongly points towards these shards of metal circulating as money.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shopping-habits-of-the-ancient-past">Shopping habits of the ancient past</h2>



Beyond just establishing the existence of a prehistoric currency, the study also delved into spending patterns. And it seems that our shopping trips and online orders share similarities with the markets and trade fairs of the past. 



The majority of the expenses, much like in modern Western households, were small, with more considerable costs making a much rarer appearance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-markets-an-age-old-phenomenon">Markets: An age-old phenomenon</h2>



The implications of these findings promise to shake up our understanding of economic history. We usually envision our ancestors bartering goods, exchanging gifts, with a market system being a relatively recent invention in the grand scheme of human civilization. However, the research challenges this notion.



"We are used to thinking of the market economy as a product of modernity, an innovation that deeply changed people’s lives and minds as soon as it appeared,” noted Dr. Ialongo.



“Our results suggest that it may have always existed. In a way, one could even think of it as one of the many behavioural traits that define us as humans: like warfare and marriage.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shattering-assumptions">Shattering assumptions</h2>



“To be honest, we were quite surprised by our results,” said Giancarlo Lago, who carried out the research while at the University of Salento in the Department of Cultural Heritage.



“Our findings defy some long-established beliefs among archaeologists, economists and anthropologists. They also suggest that many of the differences that we see between ‘Western’ and supposedly ‘primitive’ cultures are not as substantial as we might think.”



The discoveries challenge long-standing beliefs among archaeologists, economists, and anthropologists, potentially reshaping our view of primitive cultures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shopping-habits-through-time">Shopping habits through time</h2>



The study also sheds light on the decision-making processes of our ancient predecessors.



Just as today's consumers carefully evaluate their purchasing decisions, the analysis of spending patterns revealed that ancient individuals considered not only the immediate cost but also the perceived value of goods in their economic environment. 



This layered approach to consumption highlights a depth of cognitive processing similar to our own. Early humans weighed trade-offs and anticipated future needs, indicating that the roots of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-welfare-biggest-concern-people-making-food-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumer choice</a> extend far beyond contemporary societies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-trade-dynamics">Evolution of trade dynamics</h2>



As the researchers continued to peel back the layers of historical economic practices, they also identified shifts in trade dynamics through various cultural periods.



While local exchanges dominated the Early Bronze Age, a marked evolution toward more complex trade networks emerged over time, particularly as societies began interacting with one another across greater distances. 



The integration of different resources and commodities ultimately led to an expansion of trade relationships and a more intricate economic landscape. 



This evolution suggests that early commerce was not merely a simple transaction, but rather a nuanced interplay of cultural exchange and community building, shaped dramatically by geographic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social factors</a>.



So, next time you're out shopping or browsing your favorite online store, remember, you're not just partaking in a modern economic system. You're continuing a tradition that's been at the core of human society for over 3,500 years.



Isn't that something to ponder during your next shopping spree?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01926-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Human Behaviour</a>.



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Shopping habits have remained consistent for 3,500 years

A recent study suggests that our shopping habits have changed...

Fish oil has long been celebrated as a potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/olive-oil-can-boost-brain-health-and-fight-off-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">booster for brain health</a>, but recent findings suggest that its benefits may not be universal. 



Over the years, countless studies have delved into the complex workings of the human brain, highlighting the significant role of nutrition in cognitive function. 



One nutrient that has consistently garnered attention is fish oil, renowned for its high content of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/omega-3-fatty-acids-may-provide-superior-cognitive-ability-in-midlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">omega-3</a> fatty acids, which are believed to support brain health and potentially lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.



However, a new clinical trial at <a href="https://www.ohsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon Health &amp; Science University</a> raises questions about its true efficacy among older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-fish-oil-in-brain-health">The role of fish oil in brain health</h2>



The study suggests that the benefits of fish oil supplementation may not extend to everyone, particularly when it comes to preventing cognitive decline in the aging population.



This discovery prompts a critical question: Does fish oil truly enhance brain function for everyone, or is there more to the story than meets the eye? 



As researchers continue to explore the intricacies of this topic, the nuanced effects of fish oil on different individuals and populations are becoming increasingly evident.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riding-the-wave-of-omega-3">Riding the wave of Omega 3</h2>



In recent years, there have been many claims about the beneficial effects of fish oil on brain function, particularly in people struggling with memory problems.



However, the new study has added a layer of complexity to these claims. The researchers found that while fish oil supplements did not demonstrate a significant benefit for all older adults in general, a certain subset of the population did see some intriguing results.



The subset included individuals who carried a gene associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Among this group, fish oil supplementation showed a reduction in the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diving-deeper-into-the-fish-oil-conundrum">Diving deeper into the fish oil conundrum</h2>



Study senior author Lynne Shinto theorized that fish oil might be beneficial for individuals carrying the APOE4 gene, particularly as they face a higher risk of developing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-plays-a-major-role-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s disease</a>. Notably, though, the same cannot conclusively be said for all older adults.



“Over three years, our findings didn't reveal a statistically significant difference between the placebo group and those who took fish oil," Shinto explained. “While it wouldn’t likely be harmful, it’s not necessary for everyone to take fish oil to prevent dementia.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-health-and-fish-oil">Brain health and fish oil</h2>



The study involved the participation of 102 individuals who were aged 75 years or older and had relatively low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids, a nutritional component found in fish oil.



Over a period of three years, participants underwent periodic brain imaging to assess the degree of change in white matter lesions in the brain, a potential risk factor for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-your-secret-weapon-against-aging-and-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a>.



Interestingly, while all participants enrolled in the study had relatively high levels of these white matter lesions, they were otherwise in good health with no signs of dementia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-oil-and-alzheimer-s-risk">Fish oil and Alzheimer's risk</h2>



The double-blind study divided its participants into two groups: one received omega 3-enriched fish oil supplements each day, while the other group took a soybean-based placebo.



However, the real revelation came when the researchers looked specifically at the subgroup carrying the APOE4 gene. 



Here, the team noticed a dramatic reduction in the deterioration of brain cell integrity following treatment with the fish oil, compared to the soybean oil group. This transformation took place within as short a timeframe as one year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-approaches-for-dementia-prevention">Personalized approaches for dementia prevention</h2>



The results of this clinical trial highlight the importance of individualized intervention in the prevention of dementia.



"One-size-fits-all" solutions might not necessarily apply to nutritional interventions for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-may-literally-be-a-state-of-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. The study could lead to more extensive research in diverse populations, targeting the impact of nutritional interventions on specific genetic predispositions.



Gene Bowman is the director of clinical trials at the <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org/neurology/mccance-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McCance Center for Brain Health</a> at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor of neurology at Harvard Medical School.



“The fact that neuronal integrity breakdown was slowed in people randomized to omega-3 treatment who are also at high risk for Alzheimer’s disease is remarkable," said Bowman, emphasizing the need for larger clinical trials in diverse populations in the future.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.26872" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>. 



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Fish oil lowers Alzheimer's risk in people who are most susceptible

Fish oil has long been celebrated as a potential booster...

Attention is a powerful tool of communication, guiding our interactions and shaping our understanding of the world around us. More specifically, the little demonstrative words that direct attention – like "this" and "that" - are universal tools across all languages, serving as crucial linguistic elements that help us navigate and interpret our surroundings.



These words are known as demonstratives, and their use varies significantly from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/native-language-is-specially-stored-in-the-brain-for-easy-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language</a> to language, reflecting cultural and cognitive differences in how attention is directed and perceived.



English and Hebrew, for example, have two demonstratives, while Spanish and Japanese employ a more complex three-word system, offering nuanced ways to indicate proximity and focus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-language-to-attention">Linking language to attention</h2>



Demonstratives are not merely words; they are social guides, playing a crucial role in our interactions and communication. 



These words help listeners to focus on specific references and establish "joint attention," an element that the researchers describe as a capacity that underpins shared experiences and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-learn-better-when-their-brain-waves-are-in-sync/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutual understanding</a>.



It is this perceived interdependence between language and social cognition that makes demonstratives a fascinating and rich subject of study, offering insights into the intricate ways in which we connect with others and perceive our environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-to-social-cognition">Connection to social cognition </h2>



“The reason why we were interested in demonstratives is because of their connection to social cognition: demonstratives are used to direct the listener’s attention to a referent and establish joint attention. Engaging in joint attention is a uniquely human capacity that links language to social cognition in communication," noted study co-author Paula Rubio-Fernández from the Max Planck Institute.



"Because demonstratives are universal, emerged early in language evolution and are acquired early in child development, they offer an ideal test case for the interdependence between these two fundamentally human capacities."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-demonstratives-for-attention">Demonstratives for attention</h2>



Opinions differ on whether the use of demonstratives to direct a listener's attention is inherently part of the word's meaning (semantics) or if it arises from broader principles of social cognition (pragmatics) that govern how we interact and communicate. 



To uncover the truth, researchers from several universities, including the noted <a href="https://www.mpg.de/institutes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a>, conducted an in-depth study using computational modeling and a series of experiments. 



The experiments involved participants who spoke ten different languages from eight distinct language groups, allowing for a diverse examination of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/similar-patterns-music-language-found-across-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">linguistic patterns</a>.



In the study, participants took on the role of a "speaker" in an online task. They observed pictures of a "listener" and were asked to choose a demonstrative from their native language to request an object.



The setup varied: the listener was either already looking at the intended object or at one of four other objects, creating different scenarios to test how demonstratives are used to direct attention and establish communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-spatial-meaning-of-demonstratives">Beyond the spatial meaning of demonstratives </h2>



The findings of the research offer a deeper understanding of how demonstratives function. Participants were found to be sensitive not just to the physical location of the target object but also to the listener's attention and gaze.



This sensitivity highlighted the dynamic nature of demonstratives, as their meaning indeed varied both within and across languages. 



For instance, the "near" demonstrative could refer to an object "close to me," but it could also be used to emphasize joint attention (we are both looking at) or to subtly steer the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-gestures-we-see-can-change-what-we-hear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">listener's attention</a> towards the speaker, depending on the context and the speaker's intention.



In languages with a three-word system, the medial word often specifically indicated joint attention, providing a unique linguistic mechanism for speakers to establish a shared focus and enhance mutual understanding in communication.



"Our work sheds light on the interface between social cognition and language," said Rubio-Fernández. "We show that representations of interlocutor attention are embedded into one of the most basic word classes that appear across all languages: demonstratives."



"Our work also shows through Bayesian computational modeling that this form of attention manipulation cannot be explained via pragmatic reasoning external to the linguistic system, suggesting that mentalistic representations are embedded in a universal component of language."



The research truly underlines the powerful role that language - even the simplest of words - plays in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-bonding-can-positively-shape-the-success-of-a-group/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interaction</a> and cognition.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2402068121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Words like 'this' and 'that' direct attention across languages

Attention is a powerful tool of communication, guiding our interactions...

Recent research unveiled the presence of naturally occurring few-layer graphene flakes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underground-cave-found-moon-mare-tranquillitatis-could-shelter-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a> soil. For those who aren't familiar, graphene is a uniquely organized, layered structure of carbon atoms.



The study was led by a stellar group of researchers, featuring Professors Meng Zou and Wei Zhang, senior engineer Xiujuan Li from <a href="https://www.jlu.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jilin University</a>, and Wencai Ren from the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>’ Institute of Metal Research. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-graphene-in-moon-soil">Graphene in Moon soil</h2>



The scientists' journey begins with a 2.9 x 1.6 mm, olive-shaped speck of lunar soil, brought back by the Chang'e 5 mission in 2020. This minuscule piece was scrutinized and analyzed for a singular purpose - the hunt for Graphene.



Graphene, as we know, is a fascinating substance that comprises carbon atoms arrayed in a thin, layered structure. Imagine a sheet of honeycomb, but swap the beeswax for carbon, and shrink it a million times. 



This distinctive arrangement gifts graphene with unique properties, making it a superstar in the fields of optics, electrics, and mechanics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-the-dots">Connecting the dots</h2>



When we think about the cosmos, we often picture vast expanses of nothingness. But did you know that nearly 1.9% of all interstellar carbon is thought to exist as graphene? 



The shape and properties of these graphene structures are a direct result of their formation process, painting a unique trail in the cosmos.



Using a specialized spectrometer, our team discovered a particular iron compound in a carbon-rich section of the lunar sample. This compound, they suggest, is intimately linked with the formation of graphene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-graphene-layers-in-moon-soil">Graphene layers in Moon soil</h2>



In a plot twist worthy of a best-seller, the researchers uncovered "flakes" of carbon within the sample that comprised two to seven staggered layers of graphene. But how did these graphene structures end up on the moon?



The researchers propose an intriguing genesis for the lunar graphene: volcanic activity in the moon's early existence. 



Couple this with solar winds, which whip up lunar soil and iron-laden minerals, and we have a recipe for graphene creation.



In addition, the high-pressure, high-temperature environments formed by meteorite impacts could have also contributed to the formation of these graphene layers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-graphene-discovery-on-moon">Implications of graphene discovery on Moon</h2>



The discovery of graphene in lunar soil presents a paradigm shift in our understanding of the Moon’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grow-plants-on-moon-by-2026-nasa-artemis-iii-mission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geological history</a> and its potential for future exploration. 



Graphene’s remarkable properties -- such as exceptional conductivity and strength -- could have profound implications for the development of lunar technologies.



Researchers are contemplating how this material could be harnessed for constructing lightweight, durable structures on the Moon, or even in the design of advanced electronics that could operate in extreme lunar conditions. 



The fusion of lunar geology and innovative materials science opens the avenues for more sustainable living conditions for future astronauts and, potentially, a base for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-samples-from-mars-could-reveal-fascinating-secrets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">further exploration</a> of the solar system.



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



Looking ahead, the implications of these discoveries extend beyond a singular appreciation of lunar materials. 



As our cosmic capabilities expand, researchers advocate for further missions targeting carbon-rich areas on the Moon and other celestial bodies.



By understanding how materials like graphene form in various cosmic environments, we not only enrich our scientific knowledge but also lay the groundwork for potential interplanetary resource utilization. 



The ability to create useful technologies from local materials may shift the paradigm from Earth dependency to a more self-sustaining model in space exploration, ultimately bringing humanity one step closer to establishing a lasting presence beyond our home planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-for-graphene-on-moon">New era for graphene on Moon</h2>



The discovery of natural graphene formation on the moon could mark a significant leap in our understanding of this miraculous material. 



In particular, the mineral-catalyzed formation process could guide the development of cost-effective synthesis methods of high-quality graphene.



“The mineral-catalyzed formation of natural graphene sheds light on the development of low-cost scalable synthesis techniques of high-quality graphene,” the paper said. 



“Therefore, a new lunar exploration program may be promoted, and some forthcoming breakthroughs can be expected.”



So, what's next on the horizon? Will this discovery spark a new era for graphene research and lunar exploration? 



Only time will tell. Until then, let's revel in the beauty of this cosmic revelation: the dance of chemistry and physics, producing miracles in the form of graphene in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-moon-soil-lunar-regolith-space-debris-into-building-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar soil</a>.



As we ponder the implications of this discovery, it's clear that the mysteries of the universe continue to unfold, paving the way for future exploration and innovation.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/nsr/advance-article/doi/10.1093/nsr/nwae211/7695326" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Review</a>.



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Graphene, the new 'wonder material' in Earth technology, found in moon soil

Recent research unveiled the presence of naturally occurring few-layer graphene...

Picture this: you're settled in for movie night, a bag of your favorite salty snack in one hand and a tub of creamy, flavorful dip in the other. 



It's the perfect combo, right? But, before you dip that chip, a novel study urges you to reconsider.



Officially unveiled in the November issue of Food Quality and Preference, an intriguing study delved into American snacking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-sleep-leads-to-unhealthy-snacking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habits</a>, specifically how the addition of dip impacts our calorie intake.



The research was conducted at the Sensory Evaluation Center, part of the College of Agricultural Sciences at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State University</a>, which combines expertise in food science and sensory evaluation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dipping-into-the-study">Dipping into the study</h2>



Madeline Harper, a recent Penn State graduate with a master’s degree in food science, led the study. Overall, 46 adult participants were assessed during two visits to the center.



The individuals were served 70 grams of ranch-flavored chips, with or without about a third of a cup of ranch dip, and invited to eat as much as they pleased. What the researchers discovered might make you ditch the dip altogether.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-salty-snack-seduction">The salty snack seduction</h2>



The study documented that when dip was introduced to the snack equation, people consumed significantly more calories – 77% more to be precise. 



The participants chowed down on the same amount of chips, but the addition of the dip led to a sneakily increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-caloric-restriction-help-you-live-longer-its-complicated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caloric intake</a>.



John Hayes is the director of the Penn State Sensory Evaluation Center and a professor of food science.



“The most striking findings of our study is that people didn't eat fewer chips when dip was available - they ate the same amount of chips, plus the dip," said Professor Hayes.



"This lack of compensation means that adding dip to chips can substantially increase overall energy intake without people realizing it.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-bite-bigger-problem">Bigger bite, bigger problem</h2>



Harper suggests that the inclusion of the dip leads to a larger bite, thus allowing participants to eat more without necessarily increasing the rate at which they ate. 



In each eating session, participants consumed an average of 345 calories with the chip-dip combo, as opposed to 195 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-who-are-obese-have-a-harder-time-burning-calories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calories</a> with the chips alone.



Despite being a significant source of energy in our diets, snacking remains understudied, particularly when it comes to how extras like dips influence our intake. The study at Penn State marks a crucial step towards understanding this behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paving-the-way-forward">Paving the way forward</h2>



“This research opens up new avenues for exploring how the physical properties of foods can influence our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-behavior-is-influenced-by-the-unconscious-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating behaviors</a> and ultimately, our energy intake,” Hayes noted. “If we can slow people down, we can influence energy consumption without giving up the pleasure from food.”



Supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the research represents a crucial step in tackling issues of overeating and obesity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-dips-with-fewer-calories">Alternative dips with fewer calories</h2>



As we navigate the world of snacking, it's essential to find healthier alternatives that can still satisfy our cravings without leading to excessive calorie consumption. 



Instead of traditional creamy dips, consider exploring options that offer flavor and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/minimally-processed-foods-cost-more-offer-no-extra-nutrition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrition</a> without the added calories.



One popular choice is salsa, which is often lower in calories and packed with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Not only does salsa add a zesty kick to your snacks, but it also provides vitamins and minerals that contribute to your overall health. 



Another great option is hummus, made from chickpeas, tahini, and spices. It is rich in protein and fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer while still enjoying the dip experience.



Additionally, you might want to experiment with yogurt-based dips, such as tzatziki or herbed Greek yogurt, which can be a lighter alternative to traditional dips. These options are not only delicious but can also be rich in probiotics, promoting gut health.



Lastly, consider portion control. Instead of serving the dip directly from the container, try pre-portioning smaller amounts into individual bowls. This way, you can enjoy the flavor without the temptation to go back for seconds or thirds.



By making simple changes to how you dip, you can enjoy your favorite snacks while being mindful of your caloric intake. Balancing enjoyment with health can lead to a more satisfying and guilt-free snacking experience.



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Dips can more than double the calories of your favorite snack

Picture this: you're settled in for movie night, a bag...

Current climate policies carry a significant risk of triggering critical Earth system tipping points, even if global temperatures are later reduced to below 1.5°C after a temporary overshoot. A new study published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49863-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a> suggests that these risks can be mitigated if temperature increases are quickly reversed.



Human-induced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-abruptly-push-species-over-their-tipping-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> can destabilize large-scale Earth system components, known as tipping elements, such as ice sheets, ocean circulation patterns, and key global biospheres.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnected-climate-tipping-points-nbsp">Interconnected climate tipping points&nbsp;</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis</a> (IIASA) and the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research</a> (PIK) examined the risks posed to four interconnected core climate tipping elements under current mitigation efforts and future emission scenarios.



The study focused on the potential destabilization of the Greenland Ice Sheet, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Rainforest</a>.&nbsp;



These elements are crucial for maintaining the stability of the Earth's climate system. Global warming can induce sudden changes in these systems, leading to irreversible outcomes.



The analysis emphasizes the critical importance of adhering to the climate targets set by the Paris Agreement and highlights the long-term consequences of our climate actions today.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-tipping-points-in-the-coming-centuries-nbsp">Climate tipping points in the coming centuries&nbsp;</h2>



“Our results show that to effectively limit tipping risks over the coming centuries and beyond, we must achieve and maintain net-zero greenhouse gas emissions,” explained co-lead author Tessa Möller, a researcher with the IIASA Energy, Climate, and Environment Program and at PIK.



“Following current policies this century would commit us to a high tipping risk of 45% by 2300, even if temperatures are brought back to below 1.5°C after a period of overshoot.”&nbsp;



The study revealed that substantial tipping risks could materialize by 2300 under various future emission scenarios. If global temperatures do not return to below 1.5°C by 2100, despite achieving net-zero greenhouse gas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/countries-net-zero-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a>, there is up to a 24% chance that at least one of the key tipping elements will reach a critical threshold. This risk increases significantly with every tenth of a degree of warming above 1.5°C.



“We see an increase in tipping risk with every tenth of a degree of overshoot above 1.5°C. If we were to also surpass 2°C of global warming, tipping risks would escalate even more rapidly,” said co-lead author Annika Ernest Högner, a scientist at PIK.



“This is very concerning as scenarios that follow currently implemented climate policies are estimated to result in about 2.6°C global warming by the end of this century.”&nbsp;



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



The study stresses that only a rapid reversal of warming after any overshoot can effectively limit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-tipping-points-report-shows-humanity-on-a-disastrous-trajectory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tipping risks</a>. This necessitates achieving at least net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;



“Our study underscores that this global mitigation objective, enshrined in Article 4 of the Paris Agreement, is vital for planetary stability,” said Carl Schleussner, leader of the IIASA Integrated Climate Impacts Research Group and one of the study's authors



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-between-climate-tipping-elements-nbsp">Interactions between climate tipping elements&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers noted that current advanced models used to study Earth systems may not fully capture the complex behaviors, feedback loops, and interactions between tipping elements.&nbsp;



To address these limitations, the team employed a simplified Earth system model using four connected mathematical equations to represent these tipping elements. This approach allowed them to include future stabilizing interactions, such as the cooling effect of a weakened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-could-collapse-the-atlantic-circulation-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMOC</a> on the Northern Hemisphere.



“This analysis of tipping point risks adds further support to the conclusion that we are underestimating risks, and need to now recognize that the legally binding objective in the Paris Agreement of holding global warming to well below 2°C, in reality, means limiting global warming to 1.5°C,” concluded PIK Director and study co-author Johan Rockström.



“Due to insufficient emission reductions, we run an ever-increasing risk of a period of overshooting this temperature limit, which we need to minimize at all costs to reduce dire impacts to people across the world.”&nbsp;



The study's findings highlight the urgent need for global action to limit global warming and prevent critical tipping points in the Earth's climate system. 



The potential irreversible changes underscore the importance of immediate and sustained efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adhere to international climate agreements.



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Can we still prevent critical climate tipping points?

Current climate policies carry a significant risk of triggering critical...

Have you ever wondered about the science behind your breakfast sausage or that slice of bacon you relish with your morning coffee? Did you ever imagine that what's on your breakfast plate could potentially wield an influence over your brain health? Well, new research suggests that eating processed red meat increases dementia risk by 14 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-red-meat-and-dementia">Red meat and dementia</h2>



It's not an alien concept that our diet has <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-dietary-changes-are-best-for-cancer-prevention/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">implications for our health</a>. But can switching your bacon and sausages for alternatives like nuts, beans, or tofu help decrease your risk of dementia? An intriguing study proposes this very hypothesis.&nbsp;



This research, conducted by Yuhan Li, a diligent research assistant at the renowned <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brigham and Women’s Hospital</a> in Boston, Massachusetts, scrutinizes the impact of processed red meat on our neurological health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-processed-red-meat">Impact of processed red meat</h2>



Li began research to study how eating processed red meat affects the risk of developing dementia.



The study reached out to over 130,000 health professionals from all over the United States, gathering their insights and experiences. Individual health and dietary habits were tracked and analyzed over an impressive 43 years, providing valuable perspectives on wellness.



This longitudinal study involved participants filling out questionnaires every few years. They shared details about their dietary habits. A key focus was their consumption of processed red meat. This included items like bacon, hot dogs, sausages, and salami.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-we-go-nuts-over-meat">Could we go nuts over meat?</h2>



Out of all the participants, over 11,000 cases of dementia surfaced during the study's follow-up period. The results indicated that consuming two servings of processed red meat saw a 14% hike in dementia risk compared to eating about three servings each month.



The study suggests that by replacing one daily serving of processed red meat with a serving of nuts, beans, or tofu, we could potentially trim the risk of dementia by as much as 20 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dementia-risk-from-red-meat">Dementia risk from red meat</h2>



Li's research also threw light on cognitive abilities. Over 17,000 participants underwent assessments gauging their language, executive function, and processing prowess. These assessments also evaluated their verbal memory - basically, their ability to recall and understand words and sentences.



The outcomes were eye-opening. Those who made the switch from processed red meat to a serving of nuts, beans, or tofu were found to have sharper memory and thinking skills. In contrast, those who consumed more processed red meat exhibited poorer cognitive skills and a higher risk of dementia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-red-meat-dementia-riddle">Unraveling the red meat-dementia riddle</h2>



These findings, while compelling, raise an important question - does processed red meat directly contribute to dementia, or is it a lifestyle question? Could it be that those who steer clear of such meat tend to have healthier habits in general?



"Research into diet and the risk of dementia is a major focus. In particular, the effect of eating processed red meat on our health has been a hot topic," said Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research and innovation at <a href="https://www.alzheimers.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s Society</a>.



“In this study more people who ate processed red meat went on to develop dementia and had worse memory and thinking skills.



“It’s important to remember that this doesn’t mean that eating processed red meat is directly related to developing dementia. It may be that people who avoid processed red meat are generally more health conscious and avoid other unhealthy habits that increase dementia risk.



“The diseases that cause dementia are very complex, and it is unlikely that one food group would make a significant difference. Instead, we know that what is good for the heart is good for the head, and recommend everyone to eat a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-diets-offer-health-benefits-and-lower-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy balanced diet</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



While the study spanned an extensive 43 years, it's not without its limitations. Researchers only evaluated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diseases-linked-to-processed-meat-could-easily-be-prevented/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> every two to four years. Considering the significant time gap, diets could have swerved substantially in between assessments, potentially tilting the findings.



This concern is echoed by experts like Dr Hilda Mulrooney, reader in nutrition and health at the London Metropolitan University, and Dr Sebastian Walsh, a doctoral fellow at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>.&nbsp;



They underline the need to understand other factors that were considered while evaluating this apparent red meat-dementia relationship. Their input could paint us a more holistic picture.



Is it time to rethink our eating habits? Possibly. As the adage goes, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Each small stride towards improved lifestyle choices is a win for mental health. So, let's take a moment to reflect - what's on your plate today?



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Reduce your risk of dementia by cutting out this type of meat

Have you ever wondered about the science behind your breakfast...

Tropical glaciers have shrunk to their smallest size in over 11,700 years, according to researchers at <a href="https://www.bc.edu/">Boston College</a>. 



These results, derived from rocks newly exposed after being covered by prehistoric ice, indicate that the tropics have warmed beyond levels last seen in the early Holocene epoch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-melting-of-tropical-glaciers">Unexpected melting of tropical glaciers  </h2>



Scientists have long predicted that tropical glaciers would melt as temperatures rise in regions near the Earth's equator. However, the analysis of rock samples near four glaciers in the Andes Mountains shows that this retreat has occurred much faster than expected, crossing a significant climatological threshold.&nbsp;



“We have pretty strong evidence that these glaciers are smaller now than they have been any time in the past 11,000 years," said co-author Jeremy Shakun, an associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at Boston College.



"Given that modern glacier retreat is mostly due to rising temperatures - as opposed to less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-loss-increases-snowfall-over-west-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowfall</a>, or changes in cloud cover - our findings suggest the tropics have already warmed outside their Holocene range and into the Anthropocene."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tropical-glaciers-a-sign-of-the-times">Tropical glaciers: A sign of the times</h2>



This shift means that glaciers, traditionally classified within the Holocene interglacial period - an epoch characterized by the development of human civilization - may now be better categorized within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/welcome-to-humanitys-new-era-the-anthropocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthropocene</a>, an era defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems.



The implications of this study are stark, suggesting that many of the world's glaciers are likely retreating much faster than previously predicted, possibly by decades. 



“This is the first large region of the planet where we have strong evidence that glaciers have crossed this important benchmark - it is a ‘canary in the coalmine’ for glaciers everywhere,” Shakun warned.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-vs-natural-fluctuations-nbsp">Climate change vs. natural fluctuations&nbsp;</h2>



While it is known that glaciers have been retreating worldwide over the past century, it has been unclear how this retreat compares to natural fluctuations over the last several millennia. To address this, the research team set out to determine the current size of tropical glaciers compared to their size over the past 11,000 years.



An international team of scientists traveled to Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia to analyze the chemistry of bedrock recently exposed by retreating glaciers in the tropical Andes. They measured concentrations of two rare isotopes - beryllium-10 and carbon-14 - which accumulate in bedrock surfaces when exposed to cosmic radiation.&nbsp;



“By measuring the concentrations of these isotopes in the recently exposed bedrock we can determine how much time in the past the bedrock was exposed, which tells us how often the glaciers were smaller than today - kind of like how a sunburn can tell you how long someone was out in the sun,” Shakun explained.



“We found essentially no beryllium-10 or radiocarbon-14 in any of the 18 bedrock samples we measured in front of four tropical glaciers,” said lead author Andrew Gorin, now a PhD student at UC Berkeley. “That tells us there was never any significant prior exposure to cosmic radiation since these glaciers formed during the last ice age.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-largest-tropical-ice-mass-nbsp">Largest tropical ice mass&nbsp;</h2>



The results of this investigation are supported by research conducted twenty years ago at the Quelccaya Ice Cap in Peru, the largest tropical ice mass in the world. There, researchers discovered rooted plant remains melting out of the ice margin, dated to be 5,000 years old.&nbsp;



The findings indicated that Quelccaya had remained larger than its current size for millennia, as the plants would have decayed if previously exposed.&nbsp;



Shakun noted that while these findings suggested modern ice retreat was abnormally large, it had not yet reached an alarming level compared to the entire Holocene.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-a-broad-range-of-glaciers">Studying a broad range of glaciers</h2>



The team aimed to study a broader range of glaciers to conclusively determine if any had ever been smaller than today.



Shakun and his colleagues have applied this technique to glaciers along the entire American Cordillera, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. They published their North American results last year and plan to release findings from southern South America soon.&nbsp;



“Once we do that, then these studies can all be put together into a global perspective on the current state of glacier retreat,” Shakun said.



This research underscores the urgency of addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-is-increasingly-unpredictable-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, as the rapid retreat of tropical glaciers highlights the profound impact of rising temperatures. The evidence points to a need for global action to mitigate these effects and preserve vital ecosystems.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg7546" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Tropical glaciers offer a glimpse of our harsh climate reality

Tropical glaciers have shrunk to their smallest size in over...

Mountain hikes serve as a rejuvenating escape from the mundane - the clear views and crisp air acting as a tonic for the soul. But when it comes to vultures, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-birds-brains-evolved-to-enable-them-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flying</a> at high-altitudes present a unique challenge. 



The thin air gracing the mountain highs can reduce the lift that bird wings generate, as Jonathan Rader from the University of North Carolina (<a href="https://www.unc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNC</a>) at Chapel Hill, USA, underlines. This naturally makes it more complex for them to remain afloat. But ever wondered why this doesn't douse their spirits?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vultures-flying-at-high-altitudes">Vultures flying at high altitudes</h2>



From bar-headed geese and cranes to bar-tailed godwits, birds have marked altitude records of 6,000 m and beyond. The question is - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-migratory-birds-navigate-with-such-accuracy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how do they pull this off</a> when thin air barely provides any lift?



A plausible theory points to high-altitude birds flying faster to counterbalance lower air density. However, this theory hadn't been tested on birds that inhabit a vast range of altitudes - right from sea level to towering summits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turkey-vultures-high-flying-experts">Turkey vultures: High-flying experts</h2>



"Turkey vultures are common through North America and inhabit an elevation range of more than 3,000&nbsp;m," says Rader.



Their mission? To confirm if turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) living at different heights fly at varying speeds subject to their altitude. The findings agreed with the hypothesis - turkey vultures certainly fly faster at altitude, offsetting the lower lift due to the thin air.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-s-flight-plan">Study's flight plan</h2>



The team began by filming vultures flying at a local refuse site in Orange County (80 m above sea level). They then shifted their base to Wyoming, observing birds at Alcova (1,600 m) and finally, the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie (2,200 m). 



Armed with three synchronized cameras at each location, they captured the vultures' end-of-day flights in 3D.



After returning to North Carolina, Rader analyzed the flight data from 2,458 recorded flights, calculating their airspeed which ranged between 8.7 and 13.24 m/s. The air density at each location, derived from local air pressure readings, showed a 27% change from 0.89 kg/m3 at Laramie to 1.227 kg/m3 at Chapel Hill.



When the recorded air densities were plotted against the birds' airspeeds on a graph, data suggested that the vultures flying at 2,200m in Laramie were generally flying approximately 1m/s faster than their counterparts in Chapel Hill.



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



Understanding the flight dynamics of turkey vultures at high altitudes can yield significant insights for conservation efforts. 



As these birds are often viewed as scavengers - playing a critical role in ecosystems by cleaning up carrion - a deeper comprehension of their adaptability to varying altitudes may help inform habitat preservation strategies.



By identifying specific elevation preferences and flight behaviors, conservationists can create targeted measures to protect their nesting sites and ensure the sustainability of their populations in an ever-changing environment.



This knowledge is particularly crucial in light of climate change, as shifting weather patterns may alter their available habitats and food sources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-avian-context">Broader avian context</h2>



While the turkey vulture serves as a model for understanding high-altitude avian flight, it opens a broader inquiry into the adaptations of other bird species that thrive in mountainous terrains. 



The study encourages further examination of physiological and behavioural traits that enable birds like the Tibetan snowcock and the Andean condor to navigate the challenges posed by their environments. 



Whether through specialized wing structures, metabolic adaptations, or unique migratory behaviours, such investigations not only enhance our knowledge of avian biology but also contribute to the preservation of biodiversity in high-altitude ecosystems worldwide. 



By fostering this comprehensive approach, researchers can better articulate the interconnectedness of species and the importance of the environments they inhabit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-vulture-s-flying-speeds">Mystery of vulture's flying speeds</h2>



Delving deeper into the flight recordings, Rader was searching for signs of increased flapping which could explain the higher flying speeds. 



But interestingly, the high-altitude vultures were not flapping their wings any more than the sea-level birds. Instead, it seems that the vultures at 2,200 m were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/island-bird-communities-are-changing-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flying</a> faster merely because of the reduced drag in thin air, allowing them to maintain their speeds and stay aloft despite generating less lift in the low-density air.



In the world of avian aerodynamics, it seems the turkey vultures have cracked the altitude code, adapting perfectly to their high-flying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vultures-consume-enormous-amount-of-plastic-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a>. And who knows? Perhaps, understanding this natural phenomenon could inspire new heights in human aviation technology too!



The study is published in the <a href="https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article/227/15/jeb246828/361246/Turkey-vultures-tune-their-airspeed-to-changing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental Biology</a>.



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How vultures fly faster in thin air at high altitudes

Mountain hikes serve as a rejuvenating escape from the mundane...

For decades, physicists have been captivated by the prospect of spaceships traveling faster than light by compressing four-dimensional spacetime -- a concept commonly referred to as "warp drive."



Yes, you heard it right -- those super-speed spaceships that effortlessly dart across galaxies in popular sci-fi culture. While it originates from the realm of fantasy, this idea is also rooted in the robust theories of Einstein's general relativity.



A recent study published in the Open Journal of Astrophysics explores this intriguing possibility by simulating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravitational-waves-dark-matter-big-bang-breakthrough/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational waves</a> that a malfunctioning warp drive could emit -- a warp drive being used by an extraterrestrial spacecraft somewhere in the universe.



How might such insights reshape our understanding of the cosmos and our place within it? This research invites us to ponder the exciting implications of advanced propulsion methods for future space exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warp-drives-spacetime-and-gravity">Warp drives, spacetime, and gravity</h2>



So, what exactly is a warp drive? The concept suggests that a spaceship could travel faster than the speed of light by bending or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matter-spacetime-gravitational-waves-fabric-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"warping" spacetime</a> itself.



This idea, while captivating, raises some eyebrows -- after all, isn't that impossible? On paper, yes, because achieving such a feat would require 'exotic matter' with negative energy density and the ability to precisely control a warp bubble without causing catastrophic consequences.



However, recent research has begun to explore a different avenue. It investigates the implications of a warp drive "containment failure."



To put it simply, it’s like asking, "What if the spaceship's warp drive malfunctions mid-flight?" This line of inquiry opens up a host of intriguing questions about the stability of the warp bubble and what might happen if the delicate balance of spacetime is disrupted.



Would the ship be thrown into an unpredictable trajectory, or could it perhaps create a new form of propulsion?



These questions challenge our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/einstein-telescope-will-revolutionize-cosmic-observations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of physics</a> while igniting the imagination about the future of space travel and the potentials -- and pitfalls -- of advanced technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravitational-waves-from-warp-drives">Gravitational waves from warp drives</h2>



Introducing the scientists steering this journey, Dr. Katy Clough from Queen Mary University of London and Prof. Dr. Tim Dietrich from the University of Potsdam.



When asked about the concept of warp drives, Dr. Clough noted, “Although warp drives remain purely theoretical, they are well-defined within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Einstein’s theory of General Relativity</a>. This allows us to use numerical simulations to explore their potential impact on spacetime through gravitational waves.”



The study's findings are remarkable. When a warp drive collapses, it generates a distinct burst of gravitational waves -- those intriguing ripples in spacetime emerge when our hypothetical warp drive collapses.



Unlike the chirps from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-might-be-driving-force-behind-black-hole-mergers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">merging black holes</a> or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-star-collisions-push-the-limits-of-extreme-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron stars</a>, this signal would be a short, high-frequency burst, distinctly different from currently recognizable signals.



However, there’s a critical point to consider: our current detectors may not be sensitive enough to capture these elusive waves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-gravitational-wave-detection">Future of gravitational wave detection</h2>



Thankfully, all hope is not lost. The technology to develop detectors that can capture these high-frequency waves is indeed available.



By harnessing this technology, we may be able to detect evidence of warp drive technology at use out in the universe without the necessity of constructing one ourselves.



What implications could this have for our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curvature-propulsion-warp-drive-krasnikov-tube-future-intergalactic-space-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced propulsion systems</a> and their potential applications in space exploration?



Prof. Tim Dietrich points out the importance of these simulations for understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic processes</a>.



“The study helps us model negative energy spacetimes and potentially understand the evolution of our universe or the processes at the center of black holes," Dietrich explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warp-drives-gravitational-waves-and-first-contact">Warp drives, gravitational waves, and first contact</h2>



While practical warp drive technology is not around the corner for humans here on Earth, these findings give us a unique perspective into the theoretical physics of warp drives and gravitational waves.



The scientists now aim to study the changes in gravitational wave signals with different warp drive models.



Moreover, these findings could potentially help us understand the evolution of the universe and the enigmatic black holes.



In summary, while we're still years away from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-engineer-creates-propellantless-propulsion-system-defies-laws-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">zipping through galaxies</a> at the speed of light, this study offers some fascinating insights into the realm of warp drives.



The way forward might be filled with challenges and uncertainties, but every step we take brings us closer to understanding the mysteries of the universe.



So, keep your eyes on the stars as we continue to explore the world of warp drives and gravitational waves. Who knows? One day, we might just make science fiction a reality!



The full study was published in the <a href="https://astro.theoj.org/article/121868-what-no-one-has-seen-before-gravitational-waveforms-from-warp-drive-collapse" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Journal of Astrophysics</a>.



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Detecting warp drives from extraterrestrial spacecraft using gravitational waves

For decades, physicists have been captivated by the prospect of...

Don't you find it fascinating how societal attitudes and laws morph over time? It's happened right before our eyes with the widespread consumption of cannabis in cities across the United States. 



There's a paradigm shift happening, and it's reaching towering peaks. Our guide to understanding this escalation? None other than <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu/news/experts/edward-bednarczyk-faculty-expert-pharmacy-practices.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edward M. Bednarczyk</a>, PharmD, FACCP, FAPhA, Clinical Associate Professor at the University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy &amp; Pharmaceutical Sciences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-in-u-s-cities-urban-green-giants">Cannabis in U.S. cities: Urban green giants</h2>



Fast forward to 2024, and you'll find cities like New York, Los Angeles, Denver, Seattle, San Francisco, Phoenix, Baltimore, Las Vegas, Buffalo, and Kansas City topping the list of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis consumers</a>. 



Ever wondered what makes these cities the prime spots for cannabis hit? Let's investigate!



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-york-ny">New York, NY</h3>



Even though the Big Apple came in late to the party, the city comes out on top due to its bustling population and cultural acceptance of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-cannabis-significantly-increases-the-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana use</a>. Since the legalization, the city's consumption rates have shot up, mirroring its vibrant and diverse crowd.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-los-angeles-ca">Los Angeles, CA</h3>



Ever heard of Los Angeles as the city of dreams? It holds true for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-cannabis-use-disorder-risk-varies-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis enthusiasts</a>, too! With its extensive network of dispensaries and friendly atmosphere, LA surely knows how to roll up the green carpet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-denver-co">Denver, CO</h3>



The city continues to rank high due to its pioneering status in legalizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-potency-linked-to-dramatic-rise-in-psychiatric-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recreational marijuana</a>. Denver's well-established market makes it the nucleus for cannabis culture.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seattle-wa">Seattle, WA</h3>



With progressive attitudes and a sound legal framework, not to mention scores of Amazon employees, Seattle is another city that has put its name on the cannabis map.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-san-francisco-ca">San Francisco, CA</h3>



San Francisco’s liberal stance and wide retail footprint paint the city green, making it a crucial player in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-smokers-not-lazy-unmotivated-despite-stereotypes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the cannabis scene</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honorable-mentions">Honorable mentions</h3>



Phoenix, AZ, Baltimore, MD, Las Vegas, NV, Buffalo, NY, and Kansas City, MO: Each of these cities have developed their unique strategies and attitudes towards cannabis, leading to high usage rates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-cannabis-on-such-a-high">Why is cannabis on such a high?</h2>



Have you ever wondered why cannabis is becoming mainstream?<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/half-of-americans-have-tried-cannabis-and-nearly-a-fifth-use-it-regularly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Legalization and decriminalization</a> play significant roles in this shift. 



According to Bednarczyk, "Decriminalization reduces the penalty below that of a criminal charge while maintaining illegal status. Legalization, on the other hand, makes the action fully legal.” As legal barriers diminish, more people are embracing cannabis.



Health and wellness trends also contribute to this growing acceptance. Many individuals view cannabis as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runners-high-cannabis-makes-exercise-more-enjoyable-and-boosts-motivation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">valuable wellness tool</a>, offering pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep. 



The increasing popularity of CBD products further fuels this trend, demonstrating cannabis's expanding role in personal health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cannabis-benefits-cities">How cannabis benefits cities</h2>



The cannabis industry is also generating substantial economic opportunities. From cultivation and retail to marketing and security, this sector creates numerous jobs and drives significant revenue, much like seeds sprouting in fertile soil.



Cultural acceptance of cannabis is on the rise, transforming it into a mainstream topic. Conversations around cannabis abound in media, celebrity endorsements, and social media platforms, signaling a shift in public perception.



Finally, advancements in product variety cater to diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-abuse-trends-much-higher-in-people-who-experienced-childhood-trauma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumer preferences</a>. Whether people prefer traditional flower, edibles, or concentrates, the market offers a wide array of options to suit everyone's tastes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-money-actually-does-grow-on-trees">Money actually does grow on trees</h2>



According to Bednarczyk, the financial incentives associated with cannabis legalization are undeniably significant. “The obvious answer is money. Let’s be honest; the tax revenue is a strong driver,” he states, highlighting the economic benefits that come with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legalizing cannabis</a>.



As more states move toward legalization, not only does this create a new revenue stream for state governments, but it also fosters job growth within the cannabis industry.



This trend is expected to continue upward as public acceptance grows and more states recognize the potential financial gains associated with cannabis regulation.



As a result, the landscape of the cannabis market is likely to evolve, presenting further opportunities for economic expansion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-big-cities-cannabis-and-the-future">Big cities, cannabis, and the future</h2>



To sum it all up, more people in the U.S. are using cannabis these days. This is happening because some states have made it legal, more people are okay with it, and it's creating new business chances. 



As laws change, people's views on cannabis are changing too. In many places, cannabis use doesn't shock people like it used to.



Big cities are showing how cannabis fits into city life. You can find nice-looking shops selling cannabis, restaurants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/after-centuries-of-speculation-heres-what-really-causes-the-munchies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">using it in food</a>, health products, and people using it in parks. More people are saying cannabis might help with health issues or just for fun.



New cannabis businesses are opening up, giving people jobs and helping local money flow. Cannabis is becoming a bigger part of life in America, changing how people act and how businesses work. This makes us think about what cannabis use might mean for our future.



These changes in cannabis use make us wonder how they might affect our towns and cities. Looking at this more closely can help us understand how cannabis might change our communities and local businesses in the coming years.



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America's cannabis capitals: These U.S. cities smoke the most marijuana

Don't you find it fascinating how societal attitudes and laws...

We’ve all heard of "Cocaine Bear," the wild Hollywood tale where a black bear stumbles upon, and consumes, kilos of cocaine in the deep woods of Georgia. But what if I told you there’s very true version of this tale unfolding in real-life today? Meet the "cocaine sharks," also known as Brazilian sharpnose sharks.



Unbeknownst to them, these mostly unassuming marine creatures, known by the scientific name Rhizoprionodon lalandii, are zipping around in waters off the coast of Brazil that are saturated with cocaine. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-odd-question-to-startling-reality">Odd question to startling reality</h2>



This startling revelation comes from a recent study led by environmental scientist Gabriel de Farias Araujo of the <a href="https://portal.fiocruz.br/en/unidade/oswaldo-cruz-institute-ioc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oswaldo Cruz Institute</a> in Brazil, and his colleagues, including Enrico Mendes Saggioro.



To reach this point of the story, Saggioro, an ecotoxicologist working with the Institute, first had to dream up a seemingly outlandish question that he then posed to his team -- could sharks unwittingly ingest cocaine?



When the internal debate began, they weren't talking about those giant, Hollywood-style predators. 



Rather, they concentrated on the Brazilian sharpnose sharks, Rhizoprionodon lalandii -- petite sea dwellers measuring about just 52 centimeters in length and weighing less than a quart of milk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-on-cocaine-believe-it">Sharks on cocaine? Believe it!</h2>



Is it possible that these little sharks, spending their entire lives in drug-laced coastal waters, might be high on cocaine? 



Could it be they are absorbing the drug from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-coca-plants-are-hard-to-distinguish-from-those-used-for-cocaine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocaine-infused water</a> or from the fish they eat? Or could they even be ingesting it from drifting drug packages?



Their research yielded astonishing results -- all 13 of the juvenile and young adult sharks tested were chock-full of cocaine and significant amounts of benzoylecgonine, the drug’s primary metabolite. The ramifications for the marine ecosystem are potentially massive.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cocaine-shark_Rhizoprionodon-lalandii_sharpnose-shark-brazil_illustration_1s1.webp" alt="How Brazil's sharpnose sharks, High seas: The surprising but true tale of Brazil’s ‘cocaine sharks’ - Rhizoprionodon lalandii, ingest cocaine. Credit: Oswaldo Cruz Institute" class="wp-image-1940478"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">How Brazil's sharpnose sharks, High seas: The surprising but true tale of Brazil’s ‘cocaine sharks’ - Rhizoprionodon lalandii, ingest cocaine. Credit: Oswaldo Cruz Institute</figcaption></figure>



Exactly how cocaine affects these sharks remains a mystery. Yet, studies on other organisms do hint at possible negative impacts. 



Experiments have shown that zebrafish embryos exposed to cocaine have reduced cell vitality and increased DNA fragmentation. 



Similarly, a study in 2018 revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-polluted-cocaine-eels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European eels</a> swimming in cocaine-dusted waters exhibited altered muscle physiology.



With these clues, it's plausible to believe that the cocaine pollution in Brazil's coastal waters could be wreaking unseen havoc on marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brazil-s-pharmaceutical-pollution-battle">Brazil's pharmaceutical pollution battle</h2>



Pharmaceutical pollution isn't unique to Brazil, but the country faces an acutely grave problem due to significant cocaine pollution. 



A shocking fact the research team found was that water samples from the Bay of Santos in 2017 contained cocaine amounts equivalent to caffeine. That's a lot of cocaine. So, how does all this cocaine end up in the water?



It's simple - the drugs are excreted by users and make their way into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cocaine-pharmaceutical-drugs-river-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waterways via sewage</a>. And, as Brazil is a major cocaine exporter, discarded drug packages and illegal refining facilities contribute heavily to this pollution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-cocaine-and-the-food-chain">Sharks, cocaine, and the food chain</h2>



Cocaine isn't picky about its hosts. Once in the environment, it's readily absorbed by marine organisms plugging the lower end of the food chain. These creatures inadvertently become drug mules, accumulating cocaine in their systems. 



The drug is then passed onto higher-tier consumers, like our Brazilian sharpnose sharks. But here's where things get even more shocking - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cocaine-shark_Rhizoprionodon-lalandii_sharpnose-shark-brazil_illustration_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cocaine and benzoylecgonine levels</a> in these sharks were up to a hundred times more concentrated than levels found in other marine life. 



This disconcerting buildup implies that the drug is escalating up the food chain, potentially impacting an extensive range of marine life.



The cocaine-soaked coastal waters pose a problem not only for the sharks but for the whole marine ecosystem. Drugs accumulated in the system can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overfishing-and-habitat-degradation-have-devastated-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disrupt the balance of marine life</a>. 



Altered behaviors, reduced reproductive success, and even increased mortality rates are potential outcomes for drug-exposed fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. 



And these aren't isolated events - these changes can ripple through food webs, disturbing predator-prey dynamics and triggering long-lasting ecological consequences.



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



Araujo and his team are ringing alarm bells, urging for increased surveillance and awareness programs to address this pressing issue. 



Especially considering about a third of shark and ray species are already undergoing extinction largely due to overfishing, these pharmaceutical pollutants add insult to injury.



This study is a wake-up call, not just for environmental scientists, but for policymakers too. Tackling <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/illegal-drugs-can-now-be-detected-in-the-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pharmaceutical pollution</a> demands concerted efforts on several fronts, from enhancing wastewater treatment to enforcing stricter regulations on pharmaceutical disposal and educating the public about drug pollution's environmental impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sharks-as-canaries-in-the-coalmine">Sharks as canaries in the coalmine</h2>



The presence of cocaine in Brazilian sharpnose sharks isn't just a sensationalist headline – it's a serious environmental crisis that desperately needs our attention. 



As we unravel the impact of pharmaceutical pollutants on marine ecosystems, proactive steps to shield these fragile environments become imperative.



Gabriel de Farias Araujo and his dedicated team at the Oswaldo Cruz Institute have emphasized a global concern that extends beyond Brazil's water territories. 



Their work reminds us of our ecosystems' intricate connections and the far-reaching effects of human actions. It's a wake-up call for all of us to take ownership of our planet's health and strive for cleaner, safer futures for all living creatures. After all, the future of our oceans depends on it.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724049477" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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High seas: The surprising but true tale of Brazil’s ‘cocaine sharks’

We’ve all heard of "Cocaine Bear," the wild Hollywood tale...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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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

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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

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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



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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

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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

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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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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The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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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



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Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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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



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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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