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...

Alzheimer’s disease is among the many health threats linked to air pollution - an ever-present and often invisible killer that claims up to seven million lives prematurely each year.



These lethal particles don’t just harm the lungs and heart; their effects extend far beyond, infiltrating the brain and contributing to neurological disorders.



A new study from <a href="https://www.scripps.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Research</a> has confirmed a strong correlation between air pollution and various brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s and autism.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-the-effects-of-air-pollution">Unmasking the effects of air pollution</h2>



The researchers unraveled the intricate link between brain cell activity and a chemical modification that might be triggered by a range of factors.



These factors include inflammation, aging, and environmental pollutants linked to air pollution, pesticides, processed food, and smoke from wildfires.



The experts found that this chemical modification, S-nitrosylation, interferes with normal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cell-origins-traced-to-creatures-that-lived-800-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain cell</a> function. In particular, it prevents brain cells from forming new connections, eventually causing cell death.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-hope-for-alzheimer-s-treatment">New hope for Alzheimer's treatment</h2>



The research, published in February 2025, presents a breakthrough revelation.



Interfering with S-nitrosylation in a pivotal brain protein showed visible signs of reversing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory loss</a> symptoms in Alzheimer's mouse models and human-derived nerve cells.



“We’ve revealed the molecular details of how pollutants can contribute to memory loss and neurodegenerative disease. This could ultimately lead to new drugs that block these effects to better treat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's disease</a>,” noted Stuart Lipton, the senior author of the study.



Lipton, who serves as a clinical neurologist and holds the Step Family Foundation Endowed Chair at Scripps Research, first discovered S-nitrosylation more than two decades ago. 



He explained that this chemical process happens when a molecule bound to nitric oxide (NO) combines with sulfur atoms within proteins to create "SNO," changing their functionality. This leads to what Lipton described as a "SNO-STORM" in the brain. 



The buildup of NO occurs naturally in the body and is produced in response to inflammation or electrical stimulation. 



However, NO can also be formed excessively due to small particulate materials and nitrate-related compounds that are found in or triggered by air pollution, wildfire smoke, pesticides, or processed meats.



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



In their latest study, the researchers probed deeper into the impact of S-nitrosylation on a protein known as CRTC1.



This protein plays a significant role in controlling genes responsible for establishing and sustaining connections between brain cells - crucial for the learning process and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-our-brain-form-long-term-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-term memory</a> retention.



The research confirmed that excess NO leads to S-nitrosylation of CRTC1, which then prevents the protein from binding with another vital brain protein, CREB. 



This disruption hinders the stimulation of other necessary genes for forming neuronal connections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-target-to-prevent-alzheimer-s">A new target to prevent Alzheimer’s </h2>



Following these discoveries, the team went a step further and genetically engineered a version of CRTC1 that was resistant to S-nitrosylation. 



When introduced into human nerve cells derived from Alzheimer’s patient stem cells, this modified version demonstrated promising potential.



Signs of Alzheimer's disease, including nerve cell connection deterioration and reduced nerve cell survival, were prevented. 



In Alzheimer’s mouse models, this re-engineered version of CRTC1 revived the activation of genes vital for memory formation and synaptic plasticity - enhancing the brain's ability to reinforce neuronal connections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reversing-the-impacts-of-air-pollution">Reversing the impacts of air pollution</h2>



These findings offer crucial insights into how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indoor-plants-can-quickly-remove-dangerous-toxins-from-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxins</a> we breathe in from our environment, particularly vehicular pollution and wildfire smoke, accelerate brain aging and Alzheimer's through S-nitrosylation.



“We could nearly completely rescue molecular pathways involved in making new memories. It suggests that this is a druggable target that could make a real difference in treating Alzheimer’s and potentially other neurological diseases,” said Lipton.



The study further highlights why Alzheimer's risk heightens with age. As age progresses, the body's antioxidant defenses weaken, leading to increased inflammation and higher NO levels; this makes proteins more susceptible to harmful S-nitrosylation reactions.



The research has unmasked the silent havoc that S-nitrosylation inflicts on countless proteins throughout our bodies.



“We’re learning that S-nitrosylation affects numerous proteins throughout the body, but reversing just some of these changes - like those on CRTC1 - could have a significant impact on memory function,” concluded Lipton.



The full study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.



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How air pollution fuels Alzheimer’s and brain disease

Alzheimer’s disease is among the many health threats linked to...

Many people strive to maintain smooth, youthful-looking skin and vibrant, naturally colored hair as they age. Scientists have long explored the biological mechanisms behind aging, and new research now highlights the role of specific hormones that may help preserve a youthful appearance.



A study led by Dr. Markus Böhm from the University of Münster suggests that certain hormonal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapies</a> could provide promising new solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intrinsic-and-extrinsic-shifts">Intrinsic and extrinsic shifts</h2>



"Skin is the largest organ of the human body and undergoes both intrinsic (chronological) and extrinsic aging," wrote the researchers.



"While intrinsic skin aging is driven by genetic and epigenetic factors, extrinsic aging is mediated by external threats such as UV irradiation or fine particular matters, the sum of which is referred to as exposome."



The experts noted that intrinsic and extrinsic aging can overlap, leading to the breakdown of connective tissues, reduced stem cell function, and pigment loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hormones-that-may-slow-skin-aging">Hormones that may slow skin aging</h2>



<a href="https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/retinoid-retinol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Retinoids</a> are a group of vitamin A derivatives that can help reduce wrinkles. Dermatologists have long prescribed them for skin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-aging-have-been-found-in-the-skin-microbiome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rejuvenation</a>.



Some <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3772914/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> are also exploring estrogen and its ability to maintain skin elasticity. They believe that this type of hormone therapy may influence collagen levels.



Dr. Böhm explained that some of the hormones examined in the study show potential for slowing signs of aging. For example, the initial findings suggest that certain hormones could be used to slow hair graying and the development of wrinkles.



“Our paper highlights key hormone players that orchestrate pathways of skin aging such as degradation of connective tissue (leading to wrinkling), stem cell survival and loss of pigment (leading to hair graying),” said Dr. Böhm. 



According to the researchers, hormones such as insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth hormone play important roles in how skin cells function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anti-aging-effects-of-hormones">Anti-aging effects of hormones </h2>



<a href="https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/melatonin-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melatonin</a> is sometimes called the sleep hormone. Experts note that it has antioxidant qualities, which could shield skin cells from harm.



Melatonin also helps regulate mitochondria, the tiny powerhouses in cells. This might lower stress from environmental factors like UV rays.



Scientists are looking at α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone to see if it influences skin pigmentation. They are also investigating the <a href="https://sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2023/02/conversation_marijuana.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endocannabinoids</a> found in CBD-based products for their effect on skin stress responses.



In certain studies, these molecules appeared to provide protection against UV-induced changes. They may also be linked to how hair loses its natural pigment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-a-path-forward">Finding a path forward</h2>



Research teams are now piecing together how different hormonal systems affect wrinkles and color changes. They hope that future treatments might combine topical and internal methods to keep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beyond-genetics-the-biggest-factors-that-influence-health-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a> more resilient.



For example, experts see the opportunity for using hormones to address issues like collagen breakdown and pigment loss more precisely.



Some hormones are easy to produce and come with few side effects, making them good candidates for new approaches. Long-term studies are still needed to clarify safe dosage and best application methods.



"Until now, only a limited number of these hormones, mainly topical retinoids and estrogens, have found their way into clinical practice as anti-skin aging compounds," noted the study authors. 



"Further research into the biological properties of endocrine players or its derivatives may offer the development of novel senotherapeutics for the treatment and prevention of skin aging."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-hormone-based-skin-treatments-safe">Are hormone-based skin treatments safe?</h2>



Hormone therapies have been used for years in various medical fields, including endocrinology, reproductive health, and oncology. Physicians carefully evaluate the risks and benefits before prescribing them, as these treatments can influence a wide range of physiological processes. 



Potential side effects may include changes in mood, metabolic function, cardiovascular health, and even skin physiology.



Clinical trials are currently underway to assess the safety and efficacy of hormone-based treatments for skincare. The goal is to investigate factors like hormone absorption through the skin, systemic effects, and potential long-term risks.



Experts emphasize the importance of medical supervision when using hormone-based therapies, warning that self-prescribing or using unregulated products could lead to unintended consequences. 



Misuse may disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance, potentially causing adverse effects that outweigh any perceived benefits for the skin.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/edrv/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1210/endrev/bnae034/8029650?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Endocrine Reviews</a>.



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Hormones may slow skin aging and reduce wrinkles

Many people strive to maintain smooth, youthful-looking skin and vibrant,...

It seems unthinkable that anything could live after tens of thousands of years in hibernation. The discovery of a tiny creature in the Siberian permafrost has sparked conversations about how resilient life can be.



In a recent breakthrough, researchers determined that a worm which had been frozen for about 46,000 years had survived and remained alive. 



Dr. Philipp Schiffer, a group leader in the <a href="https://zoologie.uni-koeln.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Zoology</a> at the University of Cologne, and his colleagues, have been studying how this creature managed to survive well beyond its usual lifespan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-environment-in-siberian-permafrost">Extreme environment in Siberian permafrost</h2>



Siberia has vast stretches of permafrost, which is soil or sediment that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years. 



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/permafrost-is-no-longer-permanent-arctic-communities-in-danger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frozen ground</a> can extend hundreds of feet below the surface in certain regions, with the cold temperatures preserving anything trapped within its layers.



Conditions in these areas can be challenging for people, but the permafrost forms perfect vaults for preserving animal remains. Thick ice and frigid temperatures keep organic material fresh enough to study thousands of years later.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-life-on-pause">Putting life on pause</h2>



The resurrected worm belongs to a genus known for its ability to enter cryptobiosis, which is a biological strategy where life appears to stop under cold conditions. 



No major metabolic activity occurs in this state, and organisms can endure severe environmental conditions that would normally be lethal.



Biologists have documented cryptobiosis in other creatures, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-bear-tardigrade-fossils-reveal-how-they-survived-several-mass-extinction-events/">tardigrades</a> and certain brine shrimp. The animals halt their usual body functions until they can return to an environment that can support growth and reproduction.



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



Experts identified the newly studied nematode as Panagrolaimus kolymaensis, a species not previously described in scientific literature. 



Radiocarbon dating showed that the sample was tens of thousands of years old, indicating that this worm spent most of its existence in suspended animation under frozen sediment.



It was retrieved at a depth of about 40 yards (37 meters). This position helped it stay protected in that intense cold, and gave it a chance to be resurrected in modern laboratories, where it resumed normal activity and even produced offspring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategies">Unique survival strategies</h2>



According to the researchers, nematodes of this variety usually live for only one or two months. The worm that reawakened in the lab outlived that window by tapping into cryptobiotic powers that are still under investigation.



Special molecules may stabilize cells in these worms, keeping them intact despite extreme dryness or temperature shifts. Similar molecules have been found in other organisms that are known to survive dehydration and freezing.



“No one had thought that this process could last millennia, 40,000 years, or even longer. It is simply amazing that life can begin again after so long, in the state between life and death,” said Dr. Schiffer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-of-the-frozen-worm">Genetics of the frozen worm </h2>



The experts used genome sequencing to confirm that this worm was something different. Its lineage seems to share parts of the genetic toolkit for cryptobiosis with Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode species that is commonly used in lab research.



Similar stasis has been observed in tardigrades, often called water bears. A 2017 NASA <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/podcasts/houston-we-have-a-podcast/water-bears-in-space/">study</a> noted their capacity to withstand harsh space conditions, suggesting these tiny beings have defense systems against extreme radiation and severe temperature swings.



Certain seeds can also remain viable for years in cold storage and then germinate when conditions improve. Yet the nematode’s frozen stretch lasted far longer than the typical lifetime for most preserved biological samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cryptobiosis-in-extreme-environments">Cryptobiosis in extreme environments</h2>



Scientists who focus on deserts, polar regions, and even other planets may look for parallels in cryptobiotic organisms. Environments like the Atacama Desert, known for its dryness, already harbor small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-find-new-forms-of-life-inside-humans-rna-carriers-obelisks/">life forms</a> that have evolved impressive strategies to handle scarce moisture.



Conditions on Mars and icy moons around Saturn are less welcoming. However, knowledge of how simple creatures cheat time might lead to ideas about extraterrestrial survival or more efficient preservation methods for samples on Earth.



Cryptobiosis involves shutting down vital processes without losing structural integrity. Genetic pathways that enable such suspension might have applications in food preservation or even organ transplants.



If scientists isolate the genes that protect cells against freezing, future technologies could incorporate them into strategies for stabilizing delicate tissues. Biomedical researchers are always searching for ways to minimize damage from cold storage or dehydration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-the-frozen-worm">The legacy of the frozen worm</h2>



The original specimen has died, but its offspring remain alive in controlled conditions. This provides more opportunities for tests on how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/nematodes/">nematodes</a> handle rehydration, changes in temperature, and prolonged hibernation.



Genetic comparisons with other species may shed light on whether these traits developed once in nematode history or evolved in multiple lineages separately. Either way, the results challenge the idea that living things cannot pause for millennia.



Experts see the next research steps involving experiments that identify proteins or sugars that replace water in the worm’s cells during dormancy. They could also investigate new forms of cryptobiosis in other deep-freeze environments, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stability-of-antarctica-is-threatened-by-submarine-canyons/">Antarctic glaciers</a>.



Evolutionary biologists might expand research into older permafrost samples. If more ancient specimens are discovered, scientists may gain a better understanding of how life on Earth endures in these harsh and extreme conditions.



The study is published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1010798" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Genetics</a>.



Image Credit: Shatilovich et al, 2023, PLOS Genetics



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Frozen worm comes back to life after 46,000 years

It seems unthinkable that anything could live after tens of...

For years, Mars has captivated scientists in their quest to find signs of life beyond Earth. Though its dry, dusty terrain appears inhospitable today, the Red Planet once had water billions of years ago.



Pools and seas may have once covered the surface, much like early Earth. If life began there, just as it did here, could traces of ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-seeks-a-faster-way-to-bring-mars-samples-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> microbes still exist?



A team of researchers believes they may have found a way to answer that question. By studying gypsum, a mineral known for preserving fossils, they have demonstrated that microbial life can leave behind biosignatures in sulfate minerals. 



These findings could shape future Mars exploration, helping scientists determine whether life once thrived on the now-barren planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detecting-ancient-life-on-mars">Detecting ancient life on Mars</h2>



Detecting evidence of ancient life on another planet is no simple task. Any method must be reliable, precise, and capable of working under <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-is-mars-red-scientists-think-they-figured-out-billion-year-old-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian conditions</a>. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bern</a> have taken a significant step forward by testing a laser-powered mass spectrometer on terrestrial gypsum samples. This instrument, designed for space missions, can identify biosignatures at a microscopic level.



Study first author Youcef Sellam is a PhD student in the Physics Institute at the University of Bern.



“Our findings provide a methodological framework for detecting biosignatures in Martian sulfate minerals, potentially guiding future Mars exploration missions,” said Sellam.



“Our laser ablation ionization mass spectrometer, a spaceflight-prototype instrument, can effectively detect biosignatures in sulfate minerals. This technology could be integrated into future Mars rovers or landers for in-situ analysis.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-search-for-microbes">The search for microbes</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-year-on-mars-avalanches-icy-explosions-and-the-arrival-of-spring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> once had abundant water, but it eventually dried up. Gypsum and other sulfates formed when these water bodies evaporated, potentially preserving organic life on Mars. If microbes existed, their fossils might still be present in these minerals.



“Gypsum has been widely detected on the Martian surface and is known for its exceptional fossilization potential,” explained Sellam. “It forms rapidly, trapping microorganisms before decomposition occurs, and preserves biological structures and chemical biosignatures.”



To verify this, scientists tested their detection methods on terrestrial gypsum where microbial fossils are known to exist. They studied Mediterranean gypsum formations created during the Messinian Salinity Crisis.



“The Messinian Salinity Crisis occurred when the Mediterranean Sea was cut off from the Atlantic Ocean,” said Sellam. 



“This led to rapid evaporation, causing the sea to become hypersaline and depositing thick layers of evaporites, including gypsum. These deposits provide an excellent terrestrial analog for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-collects-26th-rock-sample-on-mars-plans-to-bring-them-all-to-earth-for-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> sulfate deposits.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-for-life-essential-elements">Looking for life-essential elements</h2>



The scientists needed an instrument capable of functioning on a space mission. They chose a compact laser-powered mass spectrometer, capable of analyzing chemical compositions at a microscopic level.



They collected gypsum from Sidi Boutbal quarry in Algeria and examined it using the mass spectrometer and an optical microscope. Specific characteristics helped distinguish microbial fossils from natural rock formations. 



These included irregular shapes, the presence of life-essential elements, carbon-based material, and minerals like clay or dolomite, which are influenced by bacterial activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-life-on-mars">Signs of life on Mars</h2>



The researchers discovered long, twisting fossil filaments in the Algerian gypsum. These structures were previously thought to be benthic algae or cyanobacteria but are now believed to be sulfur-oxidizing bacteria like Beggiatoa. 



These bacteria were embedded in gypsum and surrounded by dolomite, clay minerals, and pyrite.



The presence of these minerals suggests biological activity. Prokaryotic cells influence clay formation by supplying necessary elements. They also help dolomite form in acidic conditions like Mars by raising alkalinity and concentrating ions in their surroundings. 



Without organic life, dolomite would require extreme heat and pressure to form in gypsum, conditions unlikely to have existed on Mars.



If Martian gypsum contains clay, dolomite, and other biosignatures, this could indicate fossilized life. Scientists could confirm this by analyzing additional minerals and searching for similar organic structures.



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



“While our findings strongly support the biogenicity of the fossil filament in gypsum, distinguishing true biosignatures from abiotic mineral formations remains a challenge,” said Sellam.



He noted that an additional independent detection method would improve the confidence in life detection. 



"Additionally, Mars has unique environmental conditions, which could affect biosignature preservation over geological periods. Further studies are needed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-algeria-s-role-in-planetary-science">Algeria’s role in planetary science</h2>



“This research is the first astrobiology study to involve Algeria and the first to use an Algerian terrestrial analog for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wave-ripples-discovered-mars-surface-indicate-liquid-water-present-4-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>,” said Sellam. 



“As an Algerian researcher, I am incredibly proud to have introduced my country to the field of planetary science.



“This work is also dedicated to the memory of my father, who was a great source of strength and encouragement. Losing him during this research was one of the most difficult moments of my life. I hope that he is proud of what I have achieved.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/astronomy-and-space-sciences/articles/10.3389/fspas.2025.1503042/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences</a>.



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Did Mars once host life? We finally know where to look

For years, Mars has captivated scientists in their quest to...

Modern technology has changed the way humans observe wildlife. Mini cameras placed in backyards and natural landscapes now capture unexpected activities from the animal world. These tiny devices reveal the secret lives of creatures that often go unnoticed. 



From bears rummaging through garbage bins to deer wandering suburban streets, these glimpses into nature have fascinated millions.



While these videos often go viral for entertainment, scientists have recognized their potential for research. A group at the <a href="https://www.uri.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rhode Island</a> has taken this idea further. They created a massive dataset of animal images, not just for curiosity, but for science. 



The goal was to understand how animals behave at different times of the day and how human presence affects their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-secretly-reshape-landscapes-in-powerful-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity patterns</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-activity-of-400-mammals">Studying the activity of 400 mammals</h2>



To build a more detailed picture of animal habits, researchers launched the Global Animal Diel Activity Project. They gathered data from 20,080 camera trap sites across 38 countries and six continents. 



The study included over 400 mammal species, making it one of the largest camera-based research projects in existence.



This ambitious project involved more than 200 scientists worldwide. They analyzed 8.9 million animal observations to create a massive collection of activity estimates. The results were surprising. 



Less than half of the species studied matched the activity classifications found in reference books. Many animals exhibited <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-humans-and-animals-keep-experimenting-even-when-theres-no-need/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different behaviors</a> than previously thought, challenging long-standing assumptions about their activity cycles.



The study was led by Brian Gerber, a research ecologist at <a href="https://www.colostate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a>, and Kadambari Devarajan, a research fellow at the University of Rhode Island.



The findings provide new insights into how animals adapt their behaviors based on environmental and human influences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-patterns-in-animal-activity">Unpredictable patterns in animal activity</h2>



The study revealed that many animals do not strictly follow diurnal or nocturnal behavior patterns. Instead, their activity changes based on location, environmental conditions, and human presence. 



Gerber was surprised by the extent of this variation. "I expected some variation, but basically most species that we had adequate data on showed that they would change their diel activity.”



For example, American black bears did not follow a consistent schedule. In some locations, they were diurnal, meaning they were active during the day. In others, they were cathemeral, meaning their activity was scattered across both day and night. 



This flexibility suggests that animals may not be as rigid in their routines as previously believed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-wildlife-project">Global wildlife project</h2>



Gerber’s interest in diel activity began 18 years ago when he was studying fossas in Madagascar. He noticed that these animals did not always behave according to expected patterns. This observation led to years of curiosity about how different species adapt their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-is-tracking-endangered-animal-habitats-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">activity</a> to their surroundings.



By 2017, while working at the University of Rhode Island, Gerber developed a method to analyze diel activity across many species. 



Collaborating with other researchers, he designed a large-scale study to explore how animal behavior changes in different environments. 



The resulting dataset included species from a wide range of habitats, including deserts, rainforests, tundras, and savannas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-influence-on-animal-behavior">Human influence on animal behavior</h2>



One of the most significant findings of the study was the impact of human presence on animal activity. Researchers compared data from urban and wild areas to see how species responded to human influence. 



They found that a third of the species studied altered their activity patterns in response to human development.



Some species became more nocturnal, likely to avoid human contact. Others adapted by becoming more diurnal, possibly to take advantage of new food sources or reduced predator threats. This shift in behavior demonstrates that animals are not just reacting to natural environmental changes but also to human activity.



Gerber explained how this discovery challenges traditional classifications. “The most striking thing is that when you are taught an animal is diurnal or is nocturnal, that is not always correct."



“Many terrestrial mammals will be diurnal sometimes and nocturnal or cathemeral other times. When you see a nocturnal species during the day, this is perhaps not as unusual as you might think.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-activity-and-external-pressures">Animal activity and external pressures </h2>



Conventional classifications label animals as diurnal, nocturnal, crepuscular (active during twilight), or cathemeral. These labels suggest that activity patterns are fixed traits. However, the research team found that these classifications are more fluid than previously thought.



Devarajan emphasized that animal behavior is shaped by both evolution and immediate environmental conditions. A species’ activity schedule is not simply a biological trait but also a response to external pressures.



Light availability, human development, and habitat changes all play a role in shaping when animals are active.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifts-in-animal-activity">Shifts in animal activity </h2>



The study found that only 39% of the species studied matched their expected diel classification. This means that most animals showed flexibility in their behavior.



A striking 74% of species changed their activity patterns in response to human influence. For instance, the striped skunk, gray fox, North American porcupine, and snowshoe hare became more nocturnal in areas with higher human impact. This shift likely helps them avoid human disturbances and predators.



The team also discovered that light availability affected diel plasticity. In some cases, urban lighting caused nocturnal species to become more active during the day. This adaptation highlights the complex ways in which animals respond to their surroundings.



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



Understanding diel activity is essential for wildlife conservation. Animal activity <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/old-and-wise-animals-are-essential-for-the-survival-of-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> influence population tracking, conservation planning, and hunting regulations. Knowing when species are most active can help researchers develop better protection strategies.



As environmental changes accelerate, some species will adapt their activity patterns, while others may struggle. Gerber stressed the importance of recognizing how these shifts affect animal survival.



“Recognizing the fitness consequences of species’ diel phenotype plasticity and lack thereof is an important next step to understand the impacts of environmental change and can help direct conservation actions,” said Gerber.



This study provides a deeper understanding of how animals navigate a changing world. As habitats continue to shift, scientists must continue monitoring how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species adapt</a>. 



The knowledge gained from projects like this can help guide future conservation efforts and ensure the survival of many species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ado3843" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Hundreds of mammals show how humans influence animal activity

Modern technology has changed the way humans observe wildlife. Mini...

Heatwaves aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience anymore. They’re longer, hotter, and deadlier than ever before. Millions feel their effects, from power outages to hospital visits. 



But beyond the obvious effects of extreme heat - dehydration, heat stroke, and exhaustion - there’s something more insidious happening beneath the surface:&nbsp;accelerated aging.



A new study from the <a href="https://gero.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology</a> suggests extreme heat may be speeding up the aging process at the biological level.



It is well documented that extreme temperatures can strain the body, but now, there’s growing evidence that prolonged heat exposure might make people age faster. If true, climate change isn’t just a crisis of weather - it’s a crisis of time itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-heat-changes-the-aging-process">How heat changes the aging process</h2>



Aging isn’t just about counting birthdays. A person’s chronological age tells one story, but their biological age? That’s the real measure of health. 



Biological age reflects how well cells, tissues, and organs function. When it’s higher than chronological age, disease risks increase, and life expectancy drops.



Jennifer Ailshire, senior author of the study, explained that people living in hotter regions tend to experience faster biological aging than those in cooler areas. Scientists have suspected heat plays a role in declining health, but its direct link to aging has been unclear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-link-between-heat-and-aging">Link between heat and aging</h2>



To investigate, the researchers examined data from over 3,600 individuals aged 56 and older, all participants in the Health and Retirement Study.



Over a six-year span, scientists collected blood samples, analyzing them for epigenetic changes - chemical modifications that influence how genes behave. One major process in this field is DNA methylation, which can switch genes on or off without altering the genetic code itself.



Study co-author Eunyoung Choi noted that the team used epigenetic clocks to monitor these molecular shifts. These clocks detect methylation patterns and estimate biological age.



The researchers then compared biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organ-aging-can-predict-diseases-decades-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging rates</a> with historical heat index data from 2010 to 2016, uncovering a strong correlation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-counts-as-extreme-heat">What counts as "extreme heat"?</h2>



The National Weather Service defines extreme heat using the heat index - a combination of temperature and humidity.



Extreme heat is broken down into three categories. The "Caution" level ranges from 80°F to 90°F. The "Extreme Caution" category spans 90°F to 103°F. The most dangerous level, simply called "Danger," starts at 103°F and goes up to 124°F.



This study included all three levels, examining how frequent exposure to each affected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-protein-that-reverses-cellular-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological age</a>. More days of extreme heat meant faster aging at a cellular level. 



The pattern remained strong even after adjusting for lifestyle choices, income, and other demographic factors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-exposure-alters-aging">Heat exposure alters aging</h2>



Where a person lives plays a crucial role in how heat impacts them. Some regions endure long stretches of brutal temperatures, and the effect on residents' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-detect-if-your-brain-is-aging-too-quickly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological aging</a> is staggering.



"Participants living in areas where heat days, as defined as Extreme Caution or higher levels (≥90°F), occur half the year, such as Phoenix, Arizona, experienced up to 14 months of additional biological aging compared to those living in areas with fewer than 10 heat days per year," Choi said. 



"Even after controlling for several factors, we found this association. Just because you live in an area with more heat days, you're aging faster biologically."



To confirm their findings, the researchers used three different epigenetic clocks - PCPhenoAge, PCGrimAge, and DunedinPACE. 



All pointed to the same conclusion: heat exposure accelerated aging over one to six years. PCPhenoAge even detected changes within weeks or months.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-older-adults-have-a-greater-risk">Older adults have a greater risk</h2>



Ailshire emphasized that older adults face even higher risks. The study factored in the heat index instead of just air temperature, which proved critical. Humidity can worsen heat’s effects by making it harder for sweat to evaporate, leaving the body struggling to cool down.



"It's really about the combination of heat and humidity, particularly for older adults, because older adults don't sweat the same way. We start to lose our ability to have the skin-cooling effect that comes from that evaporation of sweat," said Ailshire.



"If you’re in a high humidity place, you don’t get as much of that cooling effect. You have to look at your area’s temperature and your humidity to really understand what your risk might be."



Since older adults sweat less, they are more prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may also compromise immune function, increasing vulnerability to illness.



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



The study raises new questions about how heat reshapes health over time. Scientists aim to pinpoint additional factors that increase vulnerability to heat-driven aging. 



They also want to explore whether this accelerated aging process is reversible - or if it permanently alters long-term health outcomes.



Beyond research, the findings signal a need for immediate action. Cities and policymakers may need to rethink urban infrastructure. More shaded walkways, cooling stations, and heat-resistant building designs could become necessities, not luxuries.



Ailshire believes that ignoring the issue is not an option. "If everywhere is getting warmer and the population is aging, and these people are vulnerable, then we need to get really a lot smarter about these mitigation strategies."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr0616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Extreme heat can accelerate aging at a cellular level

Heatwaves aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience anymore. They’re longer, hotter,...

Scientists have uncovered a type of sideways motion in bubbles that hints at surprising ways to control <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-fluid-mechanics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fluids</a>.



In a recent study, researchers have demonstrated that a simple vertical shake can push these pockets of air horizontally. The study was led by Pedro Sáenz, principal investigator and professor of applied mathematics at <a href="https://math.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNC-Chapel Hill</a>.



The unexpected behavior of bubbles may open fresh possibilities for practical uses in electronics and other fields.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-movement-of-bubbles">Unexpected movement of bubbles</h2>



"Here we introduce bubbles that spontaneously start to ‘gallop’ along horizontal surfaces inside a vertically-vibrated fluid chamber, self-propelled by a resonant interaction between their shape oscillation modes," wrote the researchers.



Vertical vibrations somehow trigger steady sideways motion in bubbles, even though it defies common physics instincts that expect up-and-down movement only.



“Our research not only answers a fundamental scientific question but also inspires curiosity and exploration of the fascinating, unseen world of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-being-tested-to-prevent-stalls-and-reduce-air-turbulence-for-smoother-flights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fluid</a> motion. After all, the smallest things can sometimes lead to the biggest changes,” said Professor Sáenz.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-controlling-bubbles">New approach to controlling bubbles</h2>



The shapes of these energetic bubbles can change by shifting the frequency and intensity of the vertical shaking. Adjusting those conditions can make them move in a straight line, spin in a circle, or scramble around in a zigzag pattern similar to the random search used by microbes.



Study co-author Connor Magoon is a graduate student in mathematics at UNC-Chapel Hill.



“This discovery transforms our understanding of bubble <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-missing-elements-were-lost-in-violent-collisions-during-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamics</a>, which is usually unpredictable, into a controlled and versatile phenomenon with far-reaching applications in heat transfer, microfluidics, and other technologies,” explained Magoon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-use-in-microgravity">Potential use in microgravity</h2>



Space-based electronics can overheat if air pockets linger on heated surfaces without buoyancy to lift them away. According to NASA, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/shuttlestation/station/microgex.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a> means the force of gravity is nearly undetectable, which can hinder heat removal.



The new galloping behavior offers an alternative that doesn’t rely on gravity. By simply shaking the liquid in satellites or space experiments, these agile bubbles can be coaxed to move off critical spots.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cleaner-surfaces-and-fresh-possibilities">Cleaner surfaces and fresh possibilities</h2>



When bubbles were tested on dusty surfaces, their bouncing and sidestepping cleared grime in proof-of-concept demonstrations. This approach may pave the way for new strategies in industrial cleaning or even targeted drug delivery, where controlling bubble paths is key.



Saiful Tamim is a joint author of the study and a postdoctoral research assistant at UNC-Chapel Hill.&nbsp;



“The newly discovered self-propulsion mechanism allows bubbles to travel distances and gives them an unprecedented capacity to navigate intricate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-rain-to-saturns-rings-new-equations-push-the-boundaries-of-fluid-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fluid</a> networks. This could offer solutions to long-standing challenges in heat transfer, surface cleaning, and even inspire new soft robotic systems,” said Tamim.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-behavior-of-bubbles">Complex behavior of bubbles</h2>



The American Physical Society acknowledged this fascinating bubble motion by <a href="https://gfm.aps.org/meetings/dfd-2024/673e5f58d88f375e670eb4e2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">featuring the work</a> in its Gallery of Fluid Motion, a showcase of captivating and insightful fluid flow videos. 



This recognition from top experts highlights the increasing interest in leveraging the bubble phenomenon for practical applications.



Study co-author Jian Hui Guan is a postdoctoral research assistant at UNC-Chapel Hill.



“It’s fascinating to see something as simple as a bubble reveal such complex and surprising behavior," said Hui Guan. "By harnessing a new method to move bubbles, we’ve unlocked possibilities for innovation in fields ranging from microfluidics to heat transfer." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vibrating-bubbles-may-change-future-tech">Vibrating bubbles may change future tech</h2>



<a href="https://shop.elsevier.com/books/leonardo-da-vincis-elements-of-the-science-of-man/keele/978-0-12-403980-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leonardo da Vinci</a> made early notes about odd twists in how air pockets glide through water. Now, modern researchers have taken an additional stride by showing that shaking alone can be an effective steering tool.



"Bubbles often appear to have a life of their own. Da Vinci was a pioneer in documenting their capricious behavior, observing how rising bubbles spontaneously abandon straight paths for mesmerizing helices - a paradox that has persisted for centuries," noted the study authors.



As technology advances, tapping into galloping bubbles may shape new approaches to cooling systems, flexible robotic designs, and even space exploration.



"Given the multifaceted physics of bubbles, harnessing their dynamics may be challenging but holds significant potential rewards," said the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56611-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Bubbles don’t just rise - they can 'gallop' sideways

Scientists have uncovered a type of sideways motion in bubbles...

For years, exoplanets have captured our imagination. When one of these distant worlds exhibits unusual wind and weather patterns, scientists pay close attention.



<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/exoplanet-catalog/wasp-121-b/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WASP-121b</a> is one such world, identified as an ultra-hot Jupiter due to its intensely heated environment.



In a recent study, astronomers mapped the exoplanet’s winds and chemical elements in three dimensions. The research was led by Dr. Julia Victoria Seidel at the <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/about-eso/esoglance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Southern Observatory</a> in Chile.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exoplanet-with-a-fierce-wind-pattern">Exoplanet with a fierce wind pattern</h2>



WASP-121b is about 900 light years from Earth, but that distance did not deter the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08664-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a>. They used innovative spectroscopic tools to analyze shifting gases, and provide a fresh perspective on atmospheric motion.



One of the most intriguing details is the presence of iron in different layers. A fierce wind pattern hauls the element across the planet, creating distinct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-weather-exoplanet-wasp-121-b-has-a-dynamic-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather zones</a>.



This kind of multi-layered wind has rarely been seen before around an <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanet</a>. According to the researchers, the atmosphere is "wild and challenging" to explain using standard models.



It is rare to obtain a 3D map of a planet’s weather, especially one that is orbiting so close to its star. This arrangement means the daylight side could reach blistering temperatures, while the night side remains far cooler.



Scientists wonder if such extreme temperature contrasts might fuel the planet’s unusual wind speeds. They hope further observations will clarify how energy is distributed in this bizarre <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-3d-view-of-an-exoplanet-atmosphere-reveals-chaotic-alien-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>.



Debates continue over whether powerful winds might also trigger the formation of clouds in certain regions. If so, these clouds could shield some chemicals from external detection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probing-the-exoplanet-s-atmosphere">Probing the exoplanet’s atmosphere</h2>



The Very Large Telescope (<a href="https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/vlt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VLT</a>) in Chile contributed crucial insights by letting scientists combine data from four independent modules. This amplified the signal, enabling the detection of fainter atmospheric details.



“The VLT enabled us to probe three different layers of the exoplanet’s atmosphere in one fell swoop,” noted study co-author Dr. Leonardo dos Santos from the <a href="https://www.stsci.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space Telescope Science Institute</a>. The team observed how elements shift position in various vertical slices, giving them a step-by-step look at the planet’s climate.



Combining telescope units is no small feat. Each one must synchronize precisely, or the collected data lose resolution.



Astronomers have embraced these multi-instrument techniques to push the limits of observation. Some exoplanet <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-3d-view-of-an-exoplanet-atmosphere-reveals-chaotic-alien-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">signals</a> are barely detectable above background noise, so every photon counts.



This method has already sparked interest among observers seeking to examine more distant planets. Many hope it will evolve into a standard approach for characterizing atmospheric layers.



The researchers also took advantage of the <a href="https://www.eso.org/sci/facilities/paranal/instruments/espresso.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESPRESSO instrument</a>, which was designed to measure tiny shifts in starlight. This precision helped the experts pinpoint how fast each gas was moving across various altitudes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exoplanet-winds-and-hidden-metals">Exoplanet winds and hidden metals </h2>



Another compelling piece of the puzzle is titanium. <a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2025/02/aa52405-24/aa52405-24.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> identified it just below a swift jet stream, even though earlier studies suggested its absence.



This discovery came alongside a clue that elements might circulate differently at specific altitudes. The unusual distribution indicates that certain chemicals remain hidden until advanced instruments expose them.



“It’s truly mind-blowing that we’re able to study details like the chemical makeup and weather patterns of a planet at such a vast distance,” said Bibiana Prinoth, a PhD student at <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a> and ESO.



The unexpected titanium detection also raises questions about how quickly the jet stream mixes material from different latitudes.



Titanium was once assumed to be locked in lower atmospheric layers where temperatures drop. The new detection suggests that powerful winds could loft heavier elements upward if the conditions are right.



Future surveys might reveal more metals behaving in unexpected ways. Such discoveries could reshape assumptions about temperature gradients and chemical mixing in extreme gas giants.



Tracking heavier elements can reveal whether the planet’s magnetic field plays a part. Some scientists think charged metals might migrate differently under strong magnetic influences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insight-into-atmospheric-circulation">New insight into atmospheric circulation </h2>



These results lay the groundwork for studying other alien climates. Researchers plan to push the limits with next-generation telescopes that offer even sharper views.



Instruments like <a href="https://elt.eso.org/instrument/ANDES/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANDES</a> and ESO’s future <a href="https://elt.eso.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Extremely Large Telescope</a> could reveal smaller molecules in thinner atmospheres - a capability that might eventually help pinpoint truly habitable worlds.



Understanding these features may also help refine estimates of how planets form. Each discovery adds context to how gas giants take shape around distant stars.



Ground-based facilities have proven effective in capturing fine details. Large apertures and new detector technology will expand possibilities for future high-precision <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-kmt-2020-blg-0414-reveals-fate-of-earth-eight-billion-years-from-now/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">observations</a>.



Scientists anticipate that improved data quality will bridge the gap between theoretical models and actual measurements. They believe more robust simulations will emerge once these advanced telescopes come online.



This unusual exoplanet challenges traditional views of atmospheric circulation. Experts suspect that the interplay between fierce winds, temperature extremes, and unexpected chemical layers will shape new models of planetary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-planet-system-hd110067-discovered-that-moves-in-perfect-mathematical-harmony/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a>.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08664-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit:&nbsp;NASA/ESA/G. Bacon (STScI)/N. Madhusudhan (UC)



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Raging winds and hidden metals: The wild weather of a distant exoplanet

For years, exoplanets have captured our imagination. When one of...

Giraffes are well-known for their towering height, which lets them munch on leaves from tall trees with ease. For a long time, experts assumed their unique diets shaped the communities of bacteria in their intestines.



But now, researchers have discovered something different. They found that the type of <a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Microbiome" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiome</a> is more closely tied to the giraffe’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giraffes-hate-slopes-and-its-threatening-their-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> than to the specific plants it consumes.



“We expected that giraffes with similar diets would also have similar microbiomes, but we found no such connection. Instead, we saw that giraffes seem to maintain species-specific microbiomes,” said Elin Videvall from <a href="https://www.uu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uppsala University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-giraffe-diets">Studying giraffe diets</h2>



In a joint effort with researchers from Brown University, the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989425000812" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team</a> compared samples from reticulated, Masai, and northern giraffes in Kenya. By analyzing DNA traces of plants in droppings, they got a snapshot of which vegetation each individual had eaten.



Similar <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/srep14567" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">approaches</a> have been used in other ruminants to see how gut bacteria adjust based on different foraging behavior. However, these giraffes turned out to challenge the typical assumption that diet directly shapes the bacterial makeup in the digestive tract.



The giraffes showed wide variation in the plants they had consumed. Despite this variety, their gut bacterial communities stayed linked to their respective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giraffes-are-suffering-a-silent-extinction-and-need-more-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a>.



Scientists suggest there might be a genetic or evolutionary explanation behind this pattern. It raises questions about how each species manages to keep its own microbial signature, even under different local conditions.



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



The <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/us/universitypress/subjects/life-sciences/animal-behaviour/giraffe-biology-behaviour-and-conservation?format=HB&amp;isbn=9781107034860" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ruminant digestive</a> system depends on bacteria to break down tough fibers and release nutrients from plant cells. Giraffes belong to this group, and their gut microbes helps them thrive on foliage.



Variation in these microorganisms can influence a giraffe’s health in surprising ways. They might affect anything from metabolism to disease resistance.



All three species involved in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989425000812" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> are endangered. Identifying their diet preferences can guide wildlife managers in preserving vital plant species for giraffe forage.



Protecting feeding grounds that hold the right foliage will help to maintain stable populations of these threatened species. Knowledge of their dietary patterns could also shape decisions on habitat restoration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giraffe-diets-are-adaptable">Giraffe diets are adaptable</h2>



The scientists noted that each giraffe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giraffes-gained-their-long-necks-for-food-not-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> adapts to the resources available in its territory. This adaptation means two groups of the same species can end up eating quite different plants.



Geographical factors like rainfall patterns and soil composition influence the vegetation. Those factors, in turn, affect the daily diet of these tall browsers.



Many people assume that giraffes are just one species with a few variations, but that’s not the case. Each <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0960982216307874">group</a> has its own traits, including distinct coat patterns.



These differences apparently go deeper than appearances. Their gut microbiomes also seems to diverge in ways that reflect evolutionary paths rather than dietary patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insight-into-giraffe-diets">New insight into giraffe diets</h2>



This research has practical benefits for wildlife caretakers. If a sick or rescued giraffe needs a diet plan, understanding species-specific gut bacteria may help.



Efforts that keep giraffes in reserves or sanctuaries may rely on more targeted feeding. That could reduce digestive problems and raise survival rates for those under human care.



“We began this study as an international collaboration between academics and conservation professionals. We hope our research can provide better insight into giraffe diets and help support the conservation of giraffes,” said Tyler Kartzinel from Brown University.



Working together across different institutions can push research forward. It also aligns resources so that threatened animals can get the help they need when it matters most.



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



Scientists continue to explore how environment and genetics influence the microbiome in other large herbivores. This knowledge could apply to related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-giraffe-day-2024-a-towering-celebration-of-the-gentle-giants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> that face similar challenges in the wild.



There is also an interest in harnessing gut bacteria to support reintroduction programs. If certain microbes enhance survival, that might be a tool for future conservation efforts.



Giraffes remain a treasured part of the African landscape, and preserving them involves more than just fences and guard patrols. It requires understanding how their bodies function at every level.



This study highlights that a giraffe’s inner workings may not follow the rules we see in other animals. Figuring out what drives this pattern is a puzzle researchers plan to keep investigating.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989425000812" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ecology and Conservation</a>.



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Giraffes have gut bacteria that are unaffected by their diet

Giraffes are well-known for their towering height, which lets them...

Studies have explored the paradox of chasing happiness for more than a decade, showing that focusing too hard on being happy can leave people feeling deflated.



Researchers are now offering an explanation that is rooted in mental fatigue. A study led by Professor Sam Maglio from the <a href="https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto Scarborough</a> sheds new light on why our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/overall-people-feel-better-about-life-in-the-morning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attempts at happiness</a> can zap our willpower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forcing-happiness-drains-your-energy">Forcing happiness drains your energy</h2>



The paradox highlights how actively striving for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-is-happier-being-single-men-or-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">joy</a> can bring about the opposite result. People imagine that more happiness means fewer problems, yet forcing a cheerful outlook can become mentally draining.



This mental drain saps the self-control needed to stick with good habits. It also increases the chances of giving in to temptations that chip away at well-being.



Constantly watching emotional ups and downs puts the spotlight on every dip in mood. This extra attention can turn small challenges into major concerns.



The additional layer of willpower required for staying upbeat can feel like juggling too many tasks at once. When these resources run low, it’s easy to slip into choices that feel good in the moment but hurt overall happiness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chasing-happiness-weakens-self-control">Chasing happiness weakens self-control</h2>



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39887923/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evidence</a> from hundreds of participants suggests that trying to boost happiness demands serious mental energy. One test used a subtle “happiness” prompt and then measured how often people indulged in a tasty treat.



The group exposed to that cue ate more of the snack than those who weren’t prompted. This pattern suggested their self-regulation took a hit when happiness became the priority.



Chasing a pleasant emotional state can mean ignoring other tasks that require discipline. Instead of focusing on daily responsibilities, some individuals get stuck in a cycle of searching for a constant high.



This tug-of-war of chasing happiness drains mental resources needed for balanced decisions. Over time, it leads to more frustration when things don’t go as expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-happiness-as-a-resource-hog">Happiness as a resource hog</h2>



Describing happiness like an unlimited commodity puts pressure on people to acquire it at any cost. When that pursuit gets tangled with personal identity, it can feel like failure if every day isn’t brimming with delight.



Emotional energy isn’t bottomless. Prioritizing joy at all times means less brainpower for resisting impulses, solving problems, or managing stress.



“Just chill. Don't try to be super happy all the time,” said Maglio, who co-authored the research with Aekyoung Kim of the University of Sydney. 



Professor Maglio emphasized the need to accept the good moments that come naturally without forcing them.



The research, supported by the <a href="https://www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada</a>, adds another layer to the growing evidence that happiness is tricky to micromanage. Instead of viewing it as something to stockpile, the experts suggest a more balanced outlook.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daily-life-implications">Daily life implications </h2>



Tuning in to what sparks genuine contentment often works better than hyper-focusing on each wave of emotion. Small pleasures, meaningful relationships, and mindful relaxation can boost mental health without draining your coping skills.



Allowing yourself to have ups and downs can make those bright moments feel more authentic. Avoiding a relentless hunt for positive feelings keeps self-control stronger when temptations pop up.



A little acceptance can go a long way. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3160511/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> show that being kind to yourself increases resilience, even if the day doesn’t look perfect.



People who let happiness unfold naturally often conserve enough mental power to pursue long-term goals. This steady approach pays off when unexpected challenges arise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-stop-chasing-happiness">How to stop chasing happiness </h2>



Everyday <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/judging-your-happiness-makes-you-less-happy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contentment</a> can involve enjoying simple routines, embracing supportive friends, and celebrating small wins. Searching for a blissful state at every turn might only wear you down.



Choosing meaningful activities over chasing happiness with a forced grin can strengthen self-regulation. Feeling relaxed about happiness helps you avoid falling into a mental trap.



Taking breaks from the push to be happier may free up vital energy. Stepping back lowers the emotional workload and supports a clearer perspective.



Learning to recognize that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-a-four-day-work-week-boost-happiness-and-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">happiness</a> can’t always be willed into existence may reduce stress. Accepting occasional low moods might improve your capacity to handle daily tasks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accepting-ups-and-downs">Accepting ups and downs </h2>



Letting go of the idea that chasing happiness means constant joy allows room for natural mood shifts. When self-control remains intact, it’s easier to resist quick fixes that undermine well-being.



People who avoid linking their worth to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/happiness-influences-online-shopping-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constant cheer</a> might find simpler ways to stay balanced. They may enjoy everyday experiences more when they stop policing every moment for perfection.



Ultimately, the research suggests that striving too hard for happiness can deplete the energy needed for maintaining healthy habits, leading to greater dissatisfaction over time.



Letting go of rigid expectations may help preserve emotional resources and promote a deeper sense of contentment.



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aphw.70000" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being</a>.



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Why chasing happiness makes you feel worse

Studies have explored the paradox of chasing happiness for more...

Giant pandas are full of contradictions. Their distinctive black-and-white fur makes them instantly recognizable, yet it's their diet that puzzles scientists the most. Despite having a digestive system adapted for meat, they survive almost entirely on bamboo.



For most animals, diet follows anatomy. Herbivores have complex stomachs to break down plant fibers, while carnivores have short, simple intestines for digesting protein-rich meat. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-panda-day-recognizing-the-beauty-and-fragility-of-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pandas</a>, though, seem to defy this rule. Their guts resemble those of meat-eaters, yet they munch on bamboo for hours every day.



How do they pull this off? Over time, they’ve developed physical features - pseudo thumbs for gripping stalks, flat molars for crushing tough fibers. But physical traits alone don’t explain how they extract enough nutrition from such a limited diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-genes-adapt-to-diet">Can genes adapt to diet?</h2>



Every living thing runs on genetic instructions. DNA stores the blueprint, while RNA carries out the tasks. Among the many types of RNA, one stands out in this case: microRNA (miRNA). Tiny but powerful, microRNA is capable of controlling which genes get activated.



Scientists recently made a startling discovery - miRNA from plants can enter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-secretly-reshape-landscapes-in-powerful-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a>’ bodies through food. 



This raises an intriguing question: Could bamboo-derived miRNA influence giant pandas at the genetic level? If so, their diet might be reshaping their biology in ways no one had expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bamboo-s-influence-on-pandas">Bamboo’s influence on pandas</h2>



A team of Chinese researchers set out to investigate whether plant miRNA from bamboo makes its way into pandas’ blood and affects their genes.



“We showed that plant-derived miRNAs are present in the blood of giant pandas. Our study proved that bamboo used as food for giant pandas does affect the change of giant pandas’ feeding habits," said Dr. Feng Li of <a href="https://www.cwnu.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China West Normal University</a>.



This suggests something incredible - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancestors-of-giant-pandas-had-a-completely-different-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandas</a> aren’t just physically adapted to eating bamboo. Their genes might be changing in response to their diet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-bamboo-alters-panda-biology">How bamboo alters panda biology</h2>



The researchers didn’t just speculate. They took blood samples from seven pandas - three adult females, three adult males, and one young female. 



When the experts analyzed the samples, they found 57 different miRNAs that likely came from bamboo.



“MiRNA in bamboo can enter giant pandas’ bodies through diet, be absorbed by the intestine, enter the blood circulation, and then regulate when the giant panda’s RNA transfers information, thus playing a role in regulating the gene expression of giant pandas,” explained Dr. Li.



This means that plant-derived miRNAs don’t just float around uselessly in the bloodstream. They take part in critical biological processes - growth, metabolism, immune response. More than that, they seem to influence how pandas experience food itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regulation-of-taste-and-smell">Regulation of taste and smell</h2>



For pandas, taste and smell are essential. Their diet consists of a single food source, so choosing the right bamboo - nutrient-rich, fresh, and safe to eat - is a matter of survival. It turns out miRNA may be helping with that, too.



“MiRNA in bamboo is also involved in the regulation of smell, taste, and dopamine pathways of giant pandas, all of which are related to their feeding habits,” said Dr. Li.



As pandas eat more bamboo, certain miRNAs build up in their system. Over time, these molecules fine-tune their ability to detect the best bamboo - perhaps even making them crave it. 



This could explain how pandas, despite being genetically wired for a carnivorous diet, have fully embraced their bamboo-based lifestyle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-all-pandas-are-affected-equally">Not all pandas are affected equally</h2>



One of the most intriguing aspects of this study? The differences between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meet-melita-panda-the-black-and-white-crustacean-shrimp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandas</a>. 



The researchers found that miRNA levels varied depending on the panda’s age and sex. Some miRNAs, particularly those involved in reproduction, were only present in certain groups.



“Only miRNAs that can specifically play a role in regulating gene expression can remain in the body, and those that do not play a role will be expelled,” noted Dr. Li.



This suggests that miRNA doesn’t affect every panda in the same way. Some molecules influence feeding habits, while others may shape reproductive health or immune function. 



The idea that diet-derived miRNA could have such wide-ranging effects is opening up new possibilities for research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-this-change-animal-science">Could this change animal science?</h2>



If bamboo miRNA affects the genes of pandas, could other plants influence other species? Could certain foods help regulate immune responses, metabolism, or even disease resistance in animals?



“Plant miRNAs may also participate in regulating the animal immune system, enhancing animals’ disease resistance,” said Dr. Li.



If scientists can understand how plant-derived miRNA works, they might develop better diets for endangered animals - or even improve human nutrition. Imagine eating food not just for calories and vitamins, but for its ability to directly influence genetic expression.



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



There’s still so much left to learn. Scientists need larger studies, more samples, and deeper genetic analysis to fully confirm the role of plant miRNA in pandas. Right now, the evidence is compelling, but not conclusive.



“The giant panda is a very precious national treasure in our country, and blood samples are not easy to get. If possible, we hope to collect blood samples of young pandas who have not yet eaten bamboo for research, and perhaps get more surprising results," concluded Dr. Li.



This research hints at a new frontier in biology - where diet doesn’t just influence health but actively shapes genetic expression. The story of pandas and bamboo is still unfolding, and it may be just the beginning of a much bigger scientific breakthrough.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2025.1509698/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Veterinary Science</a>.



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Giant pandas' taste for bamboo is literally written in their genes

Giant pandas are full of contradictions. Their distinctive black-and-white fur...

At first glance, giant glacier ice sheets may seem like immovable barriers. In reality, these colossal formations have quietly shaped the face of our planet through massive floods.



New findings reveal the surprising extent of their power in sculpting landscapes. This sets the stage for how <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/neoproterozoic-era" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neoproterozoic</a> conditions might have sparked shifts in ocean chemistry.



The study, led by Professor Chris Kirkland from Curtin University’s Frontier Institute for Geoscience Solutions, explains the link between melting ice and mineral release. 



Professor Kirkland and his colleagues observed that as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-threaten-global-water-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacial</a> erosion scoured deeper layers of rock, key elements found their way into ancient oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-floods-reshaped-earth-s-surface">Glacier floods reshaped Earth’s surface</h2>



<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.281.5381.1342" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> once believed <a href="https://www.astronomy.com/science/snowball-earth-the-times-our-planet-was-covered-in-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Snowball Earth</a> events occurred when ice covered much of the planet’s surface, reducing normal weathering. Fresh data suggests glaciers may have done more than merely blanket continents.



One recent <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2014378117?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> showed how subglacial grinding exposed buried minerals, including uranium. This brought about new avenues for chemical reactions in Earth’s early seas.



During these ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glacier-melting-threatens-global-water-supplies-and-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meltdown periods</a>, floods released dissolved metals that altered marine environments. This shift gave evolving life forms new resources for metabolic processes.



When the ice receded, nutrient levels surged, and ocean conditions changed. Many researchers suggest that these transformations opened the door for more complex organisms to emerge.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glaciers-impact-on-ancient-floods">Glaciers' impact on ancient floods</h2>



To test these ideas, the team analyzed <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsw/lithosphere/article/3/4/304/145596/Detrital-zircon-geochronology-and-sedimentary" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">detrital zircon</a> grains found in certain rock layers. These zircon crystals recorded a jump in older sedimentary input at glaciogenic boundaries.



Evidence points to a spike in uranium content during peak erosion. This suggests that glacial movement dramatically influenced how radioactive minerals cycled through marine systems.



“This research is a stark reminder that while Earth itself will endure, the conditions that make it habitable can change dramatically. These ancient climate shifts demonstrate that environmental changes, whether natural or human-driven, have profound and lasting impacts,” said Professor Kirkland. 



As massive ice sheets melted, they unleashed vast floods that carried minerals and chemical elements, including uranium, into the oceans. This surge of materials altered ocean chemistry during a period when more complex life was beginning to emerge.



Ancient floods may have rearranged entire ecosystems across continents. Experts point out that similar environmental upheavals occurred at various points in Earth’s history. Recognizing them helps experts build more accurate models for our future climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-implications-of-the-research">Modern implications of the research</h2>



Changes happening today might shift habitats in unpredictable ways. Many scientists emphasize the importance of learning from these events to plan sustainable strategies.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-20627-w?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> see parallels between ancient glacial retreats and modern-day ice loss in places like Greenland. When massive ice bodies shrink, large volumes of minerals and metals enter the oceans.



Experts believe that understanding these drastic shifts can help us anticipate possible consequences of current global warming. Various teams are now investigating how nutrient cycles might respond to rising temperatures.



“Understanding these past events can help us better predict how today’s climate changes might reshape our world,” said Professor Kirkland. Such insights continue to shape environmental science and guide long-term decision-making.



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



The concept of tight links between land, sea, and atmosphere is a recurring theme in geology. A subtle change in one sphere can trigger unexpected responses in another.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature17145" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">High-latitude ice coverage</a> once spanned hundreds of miles, drastically reducing temperatures worldwide. Experts attribute subsequent sea-level rise and oceanic turnover to the meltdown of these immense ice <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-has-a-bizarre-dark-red-waterfall-nicknamed-the-blood-falls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formations</a>.



These revelations encourage a deeper look at how quickly environments can shift. Even gradual processes can set off dramatic outcomes given enough time.



Communities today may not see glacier floods on the scale of ancient times. Nevertheless, tracking modern ice dynamics can shed light on possible long-term trends.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-floods-changed-earth">Glacier floods changed Earth</h2>



Researchers remain cautious, pointing out that while Earth’s processes are slow, they can still produce major results over millions of years. Lessons from the Neoproterozoic era remind us that adaptation is key to survival.



Further studies are planned to investigate younger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-glacier-retreat-in-the-arctic-signals-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacial episodes</a>. Teams hope to identify patterns of erosion and mineral release in more recent geological periods.



Refining these datasets could clarify how climate shifts have historically coincided with bursts of biological innovation. This knowledge might prove relevant as humans grapple with rapid environmental transformations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/gsa/geology/article/doi/10.1130/G52887.1/652370/The-Neoproterozoic-glacial-broom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a>.



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Ancient glaciers unleashed floods that reshaped the planet

At first glance, giant glacier ice sheets may seem like...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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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 



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

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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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



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

Melt ponds on the Greenland Ice Sheet

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA



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



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

The history of Mars is much more complex than we thought

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research



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



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

Cavefish are healthy despite their sedentary lifestyle

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

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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites capture the world's biggest and fastest waves

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