<p>In an era where the emphasis on creating a nature-friendly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-butts-leak-thousands-of-deadly-toxins-into-the-environment/">environment</a> has never been greater, researchers are warning of the dangers posed by greenwashing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The concept of greenwashing has emerged as a significant barrier to achieving a ‘nature positive’ world, an aspirational vision of halting environmental degradation and protecting biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-positive-nbsp">Nature positive&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to World Economic Forum, nature positive means enhancing the resilience of our planet and societies to halt and reverse nature loss.</p>



<p>It represents an intent to go a step beyond the present measures, which largely orbit around damage control.</p>



<p>"Nature positive is a hot topic in conservation. Described as the biodiversity version of a ‘net zero’ climate goal, the desired outcome is an improvement in the state of nature and not merely the mitigation of impacts," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>The team was led by Professor Martine Maron from <a href="https://www.uq.edu.au/">The University of Queensland</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leaders-pledge-for-nature">Leaders’ Pledge for Nature</h2>



<p>Professor Maron stressed the indispensability of a nature positive approach, especially in the face of the ongoing mass extinction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Countries around the world are starting to back the concept – more than 90 world leaders have signed on to the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature calling for a nature positive future by 2030," said Professor Maron.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“And 11 of the global Fortune 100 companies already aspire to contribute to nature positive."</p>



<p>“This is fantastic news, but these laudable ambitions mustn’t be sidelined by a well-known enemy of the environmental movement: greenwash.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-greenwashing">What is greenwashing?</h2>



<p>Greenwashing is the tactic employed by organizations to project an inflated image of their environmental commitments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It involves dishing out misleading or deceptive information to appear more environmentally responsible than one truly is.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misleading-information-nbsp">Misleading information&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Professor E.J. Milner-Gulland from the University of Oxford said the team hopes that the public does not get the proverbial wool pulled over their eyes.</p>



<p>“Our message to the public is that it’s incredibly important to scrutinize these claims,” said Professor Milner-Gulland.</p>



<p>“As with the term ‘net zero,' you’ll soon start to see the businesses you buy from, and the governments you vote for, making claims that they are being, doing, or contributing to nature positive."</p>



<p>“But to be clear, such an achievement is only possible if we fundamentally change how we run our society and economy."</p>



<p>“What we really need are standards, so that it’s clear what constitutes misleading information, and transparency, so that consumers and voters can tell the greenwash from the genuine efforts for change.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-still-have-a-long-way-to-go">We still have a long way to go</h2>



<p>Australia is currently framing its national environmental law reforms around the concept of nature positive.</p>



<p>“For these initiatives to truly achieve that goal, they’ll need to be substantial and far-reaching, preventing the accumulation of further impacts, especially on our threatened biodiversity,” said Professor Maron.</p>



<p>“Hundreds of thousands of hectares of habitat are still being cleared in Australia every year, so we still have a long way to go before we can say we’re nature positive.”</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02199-2"><em>Nature Ecology and Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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Greenwashing jeopardizes efforts for a nature positive world

In an era where the emphasis on creating a nature-friendly...

Tired,Depressed,Bored,African,Businessman,Frustrated,By,Business,Failure,Bankruptcy

<p>A recently study has revealed a crucial connection between workplace stress and the onset of heart disease, particularly in men. The research team closely monitored approximately 6,500 white-collar professionals over 18 years, from 2000 to 2018. </p>



<p>These participants, with an average age of 45, had no previous history of heart disease. The diverse group of participants included 3,118 men and 3,347 women, employed in varied roles, such as senior management, technical, professional, and office workers.</p>



<p>The meticulous process involved the analysis of health and workplace surveys to understand the correlation between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-walks-help-relieve-work-related-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">job strain</a>, effort-reward imbalance, and cardiovascular health. The effort aimed to uncover the intricate relationships between perceived job stressors and heart disease risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-was-learned-about-workplace-stress">What was learned about workplace stress</h2>



<p>The study made a significant revelation, indicating that men under stressful, high-demand jobs with perceived lower rewards had almost double the risk of developing heart disease compared to men without such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yoga-can-reduce-stress-and-improve-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressors</a>. In fact, the risk was found to be 49% higher in men experiencing either job strain or effort-reward imbalance.</p>



<p>The severity of the combined effects of high-demand, low-reward jobs was found to be comparable to the impact of obesity on coronary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/laughter-may-be-the-best-medicine-for-your-heart/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease risk</a>. This raises pressing concerns regarding the importance of job environment on overall health, given the substantial amount of time people spend at work.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the study could not conclusively determine the impact of work-related psychosocial stress on women’s heart health. Mathilde Lavigne-Robichaud, lead author, stressed the need for further investigations to explore the complex interplay between different stressors and women’s cardiovascular health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-suggestions">Implications and suggestions</h2>



<p>Understanding the linkage between work stressors and cardiovascular health is pivotal, not just for public health but also for enhancing workforce well-being. Lavigne-Robichaud said, “Our study highlights the pressing need to proactively address stressful working conditions and to forge healthier work environments that are beneficial for both employees and employers.”</p>



<p>This study calls attention to the urgent requirement for reforms in workplace conditions and employment practices. Employers should recognize the importance of minimizing job strain and ensuring a balanced effort-reward system to foster a healthier, more productive workforce.</p>



<p>In summary, with an ever-increasing number of people exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chronic-stress-causes-the-brain-to-crave-comfort-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stressful work conditions</a>, this research serves as a crucial reminder of the need to prioritize and address workforce well-being to combat the rising prevalence of heart disease. </p>



<p>This is especially true among men. Further research exploring the intricate relationships between work-related stress and women’s heart health is also crucial to develop comprehensive strategies for workplace wellness.</p>



<p>This research, conducted by a team led by Mathilde Lavigne-Robichaud, a doctoral candidate in population health at CHU de <a href="https://www.crchudequebec.ulaval.ca/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quebec-University Laval Research Center</a>, was published in <a href="Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes</a>.</p>



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Workplace stress can double men’s heart disease risk

A recently study has revealed a crucial connection between workplace...

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<p>An international collective of mathematicians has unveiled 12,000 innovative solutions to the notoriously challenging three-body problem, a puzzle that has historically perplexed both mathematicians and physicists. </p>



<p>The leader of this effort, Ivan Hristov, a mathematician from Sofia University in Bulgaria, along with his team, unearthed these solutions utilizing advanced computational technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-three-body-problem">Unraveling the three-body problem</h2>



<p>The three-body problem involves deciphering the subsequent motion of three point masses given their initial positions and velocities, according to Newton’s laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation. </p>



<p>Unlike simpler two-body systems, which can be expressed with straightforward mathematical equations, the introduction of a third body complicates the dynamics. That, in turn, creates a multifaceted problem that has confounded scientists since the inception of Newtonian physics, roughly 300 years ago.</p>



<p>Historically, the first recognized three-body conundrum, involving the Moon, Earth, and Sun, raised substantial concerns. While conceptualizing one planet in orbit around a star is manageable, articulating the behavior of multiple orbiting objects proves to be a substantial challenge in astrophysics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delving-into-the-new-solutions">Delving into the new solutions</h2>



<p>Hristov and his team explored the potential orbits applicable to the three-body problem with the assistance of a supercomputer. Hristov suggests that with enhanced technology, they could have discovered “five times more” solutions. He characterizes the newly discovered orbits as possessing “a very beautiful spatial and temporal structure.”</p>



<p>Although the researchers have only published their findings as a preprint to the database arXiv, and the study still awaits peer review, the outcomes could offer substantial insights and resources for astronomers striving to comprehend the complexities of the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-these-three-body-problem-solutions">Implications of these three-body problem solutions</h2>



<p>While these solutions hold immense theoretical value, experts remain cautious. Questions remain as to whether or not the new orbits will indeed be stable and practically beneficial for astronomers in real-world applications. The stability of these orbits is crucial for their utility within the laws of physics for triple orbiting objects.</p>



<p>Despite the skepticism surrounding the practical application of the solutions, Hristov remains confident about the theoretical significance of their findings. He asserts that whether stable or not, the newly found solutions contribute substantially to theoretical understandings and discussions regarding multi-body celestial mechanics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-astronomy-and-astrophysics">Impact on astronomy and astrophysics</h2>



<p>Should these solutions prove to be stable, they could revolutionize our understanding of celestial mechanics and provide enhanced models for astronomers. It could ultimately prove to be an enormous benefit to scientists in the ongoing endeavor to unravel the mysteries of the universe. The solutions could offer enriched perspectives on the dynamics of celestial bodies and catalyze further research and discoveries in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics.</p>



<p>In summary, the discovery of 12,000 new solutions to the three-body problem by Ivan Hristov and his team marks a pivotal advancement in the realm of mathematics and celestial mechanics. Although still pending peer review and further validation, the findings illuminate new possibilities and theoretical frameworks, potentially propelling our understanding of the cosmos to unprecedented heights. </p>



<p>The active engagement and persistent pursuit of solutions by mathematicians and scientists worldwide signify the relentless human quest for knowledge and the unraveling of the mysteries embedded in the fabric of the universe.</p>



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The elusive three-body problem now has 12,000 new solutions

An international collective of mathematicians has unveiled 12,000 innovative solutions...

<p>A recent study from <a href="https://www.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eötvös Loránd University</a> has explored the question of why flat-faced dogs are so popular despite their major health risks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results of the study suggest that flat-faced dogs such as pugs and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/english-bulldogs-are-suffering-from-poor-breeding-practices/">bulldogs</a> have infant-like traits and behaviors that humans find irresistible.</p>



<p>"Infant-like traits may be present not only in appearance but also in behavior in brachycephalic breeds, eliciting caring behavior in owners," wrote the study authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-issues">Health issues</h2>



<p>Pugs and French bulldogs, with their wrinkled faces and flat noses, have charmed their way into the hearts of many dog lovers</p>



<p>However, these brachycephalic breeds are also prone to severe health issues, raising questions about the seemingly paradoxical rise in their popularity.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-are-brachycephalic-dogs-so-popular">Why are brachycephalic dogs so popular?</h2>



<p>The term "brachycephalic" refers to breeds of dogs that have flattened faces and shortened muzzles, a result of selective breeding rather than natural evolution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite the known health risks, such as breathing and skin problems, these breeds have witnessed an unprecedented rise in ownership in recent years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Kennel Club reported a 2,747-percent increase in registered French Bulldogs since 2004 in the UK alone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-brachycephalic-paradox">The brachycephalic paradox</h2>



<p>The researchers aimed to understand the so-called "brachycephalic paradox" - why these breeds continue to gain popularity despite well-documented welfare issues, high veterinary costs, and shorter lifespans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The focus of this paper is the ‘kindchenschema’ effect (also known as the cute effect); a well-studied phenomenon in psychological research in which infantile features in images of both children and animals are regularly found to provoke positive and affectionate feelings in human observers, and to prompt careful and nurturant behaviors," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"Our aim here is to discover whether relative muzzle shortening across a range of dog breeds is linked to the key facial features known to be appealing to, and to elicit nurturant behaviors in, human observers."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Specifically, we sought to discover whether muzzle shortening in the sagittal plane of dogs’ heads (i.e. in profile) is statistically associated with known ‘kindchenschema’ features in the coronal plane (i.e. fronto-facial features such as the relative size of eyes and forehead)."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted-nbsp">How the research was conducted&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The team used a unique experiment to compare 30 flat-faced dogs, including 15 English bulldogs and 15 French bulldogs, and 13 Hungarian Mudis, a breed with mid-length muzzles.</p>



<p>The dogs were presented with three boxes with different opening mechanisms, each containing a sausage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The animals had two minutes to open the boxes while both the experimenter and the owner stood out of direct sight.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-researchers-learned-nbsp">What the researchers learned&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Interestingly, Mudis were much more adept at solving the task, but the brachycephalic breeds were 4.5 times more likely to look back at the human observers for help.</p>



<p>This suggests that short-faced dogs have a tendency to seek out human assistance when faced with problems. As a result, the dogs may be perceived as helpless - forging a stronger bond with their owners.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-kindchenschema-effect">The kindchenschema effect</h2>



<p>Furthermore, the assistance-seeking behavior of these dogs seems to be tied to the kindchenschema effect, just as the researchers had hypothesized.</p>



<p>The experts also confirmed that the short muzzle length in brachycephalic dogs correlates with more infant-like facial proportions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basic-human-instincts">Basic human instincts</h2>



<p>Despite the public's understanding of the adverse health impacts, the study suggests that the innate human tendency to care for creatures that appear helpless or childlike may override cognitive reasoning.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The behaviors of flat-faced dogs that people interpret as helplessness and help- seeking - together with childlike looks - seem to activate our basic nurturing instinct.</p>



<p>"Humans find it very difficult to cognitively override strong instinctive predispositions and still choose brachycephalic breeds, disregarding future health and welfare issues," wrote the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paradoxical-appeal-nbsp">Paradoxical appeal&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This brings to light the ethical dilemma surrounding the demand for these breeds. While their "cute" features may be compelling, they also set the stage for a range of health problems.</p>



<p>"Recent research has indicated that many owners understand that brachycephalia can have adverse consequences for health but choose to keep such breeds anyway," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"This may be partly due to the perceived positive behavioral traits of some of these breeds, with owners’ denial of their dogs’ health problems, or with the paradoxical appeal of disabled dogs."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Either way, there is little doubt that some aspects of the appearance of brachycephalic animals is also a crucial driver of ownership."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study forces us to confront questions about responsible pet ownership and ethical breeding practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Going forward, increased awareness and education are crucial for prospective pet owners to make informed decisions that consider the well-being of these beloved animals.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-41229-8#:~:text=Owners%20might%20interpret%20these%20behaviours,eliciting%20caring%20behaviour%20in%20owners." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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Flat-faced dogs are so popular because they have childlike traits

A recent study from Eötvös Loránd University has explored the...

<p>NASA's OSIRIS-REx team has achieved a monumental milestone in space exploration, successfully returning a capsule containing rocks and dust from asteroid Bennu to Earth. This capsule marked its entry on Earth at 8:52 a.m. MDT on Sunday, landing meticulously in a predetermined area of the Department of Defense’s Utah Test and Training Range, near Salt Lake City.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-to-bennu-and-back">To Bennu and back</h2>



<p>The spacecraft traversed billions of miles to reach Bennu and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mission-prevent-earth-collision-asteroid-bennu-lands-utah/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">return the capsule</a>. It released the capsule toward Earth's atmosphere when it was about 63,000 miles from the Earth’s surface, approximately one-third the distance from Earth to the Moon. </p>



<p>Traveling at a speed of 27,650 mph, the capsule entered the atmosphere, landing within 10 minutes on the military range, supported by <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/OSIRIS-REx_sample-return-capsule_parachute_landed_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two parachutes</a>, ensuring stability and a gradual speed reduction to 11 mph at touchdown.</p>



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



<p>Post-landing, the capsule saw immediate action, being transported by helicopter to a temporary clean room in a hangar on the training range within an hour and a half. </p>



<p>Here, it connected to a continuous flow of nitrogen, referred to as a “nitrogen purge” by scientists, to ensure the sample's purity by keeping out earthly contaminants. Nitrogen, being chemically inert with most substances, is crucial in maintaining the pristine condition of the samples.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-treasure-from-bennu">Scientific treasure from Bennu</h2>



<p>The samples collected, estimated at around 8.8 ounces or 250 grams, are of immense scientific value. They are expected to unravel mysteries regarding planet formation and the origins of organics and water that enabled life on Earth. They will provide scientists worldwide with unparalleled insight into the formation of our solar system and help humanity understand more about potentially hazardous asteroids.</p>



<p>NASA Administrator Bill Nelson congratulated the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/osiris-rex" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSIRIS-REx</a> team on the successful return of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/osiris-rex-is-bringing-an-asteroid-sample-back-to-earth-this-month-worrying-many-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first American asteroid sample</a>, emphasizing how such missions unite and inspire humanity, proving "nothing is beyond our reach when we work together."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-landing-procedures">Post-landing procedures</h2>



<p>The unopened canister, holding the unprecedented samples from Bennu, will be transported by aircraft to NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johnson Space Center</a> in Houston on Monday, Sept. 25. Scientists will disassemble the canister, extract, weigh the sample, create an inventory of the rocks and dust, and over time, distribute pieces of Bennu to scientists globally.</p>



<p>Dante Lauretta, the principal investigator for OSIRIS-REx at the University of Arizona, Tucson, emphasized that the delivery of the samples marks a significant achievement not just for the OSIRIS-REx team but for science as a whole. This accomplishment, according to Lauretta, is a testament to collaborative ingenuity and symbolizes what unity with a common purpose can achieve.</p>



<p>Rich Burns, the project manager for OSIRIS-REx at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> in Greenbelt, Maryland, drew parallels between the mission's success and a triumphant moment in a crucial baseball match, illustrating the team’s heightened anticipation and preparedness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-autumn">Asteroid Autumn</h2>



<p>This triumphant return of the asteroid sample is not the end but the commencement of a new chapter in space exploration. The upcoming missions, including Psyche launch, DART’s one year anniversary, and Lucy’s first asteroid approach, are setting the stage for an intense period of exploration, aptly named "Asteroid Autumn."</p>



<p>NASA’s successful execution of this mission is a stepping stone to further groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in space exploration, reaffirming that when driven by unity and shared ambitions, the possibilities for humankind are limitless.</p>



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OSIRIS-REx safely delivers rock samples from asteroid Bennu back to Earth

NASA's OSIRIS-REx team has achieved a monumental milestone in space...

<p>The U.S. Space Force has set a new record by launching a satellite into orbit with a mere 27 hours' notice. Unfortunately, Earth's ionosphere was damaged by the launch. </p>



<p>This unexpected and swift action took place on September 14th with the launch of the <a href="https://fireflyspace.com/missions/victus-nox/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victus Nox mission</a> from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard a Firefly Alpha rocket. The rapid deployment showcases the United States’ capacity to respond and augment its space capabilities with minimal notice.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-record-setting-deployment">Record-setting deployment</h2>



<p>The Victus Nox, Latin for "conquer the night," managed to shock the space exploration community due to the lack of prior announcement regarding the timing and the absence of live streaming of the event. </p>



<p>The rush from approval to launch was a staggering and unprecedented 27 hours, as mentioned above, highlighting the agility and responsiveness of the nation’s space endeavors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mission-goals-and-observations">Mission goals and observations</h2>



<p>Victus Nox is set to conduct "space domain awareness" operations, aimed at enhancing the Space Force's ability to monitor the orbital environment, playing a critical role in overseeing space activities and potential threats. </p>



<p>The launch drew notable attention, not only for its rapid execution but also due to the enormous exhaust plume it produced, which was visible from more than 1,000 miles away. This visibility, marked by a lingering faint red glow in the sky, indicated that the rocket likely pierced the Earth's ionosphere during liftoff.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-ionosphere">Understanding the ionosphere</h2>



<p>The ionosphere, situated between 50 and 600 miles above Earth’s surface, is a region of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-uncover-new-way-that-earth-cleans-its-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a> where gases undergo ionization. Ionospheric holes are formed where rocket fuel combusts within this layer, around 125–185 miles above the Earth. </p>



<p>The exhaust, comprising carbon dioxide and water vapor, causes ionized oxygen atoms to recombine into oxygen molecules, releasing energy as light in the process.</p>



<p>Such interactions are not unprecedented, with a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket having created a similarly expansive red patch earlier this year. Importantly, these ionospheric holes pose no threat to terrestrial life and naturally close after a few hours when the recombined gases revert to their ionized state.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behind-the-scenes">Behind-the-scenes</h2>



<p>Firefly Aerospace, having secured the Victus Nox contract in October 2022, was prepared to launch the satellite with less than 24 hours' notice, which was specified at the time of the agreement. </p>



<p>The launch team efficiently executed all necessary preparations, including software updates, satellite encapsulation, transportation, mounting, and final inspections within the stringent timeframe. However, inclement weather conditions necessitated a slight delay in the launch.</p>



<p>Lt. Col. MacKenzie Birchenough of the Space Force's Space Systems Command emphasized the mission's importance, stating it was designed to "demonstrate the United States' ability to rapidly place an asset in orbit when and where we need it," underlining the strategic flexibility and enhanced operational capability offered by such rapid deployment options.</p>



<p>In summary, the unanticipated and swift launch of the Victus Nox mission by the <a href="https://www.spaceforce.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Space Force</a> has set a new benchmark in space mission execution, illustrating the United States’ capability to fortify its space assets rapidly and efficiently. </p>



<p>This development, coupled with the public visibility of the launch’s interaction with the ionosphere, has highlighted the dynamism and strategic evolution within modern space exploration and military operations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-ionosphere">More about the ionosphere</h2>



<p>The ionosphere is a critical and electrically charged layer of the Earth's atmosphere that plays an essential role in the propagation of radio waves. As mentioned previously, this layer, comprising ions and free electrons, extends from approximately 50 miles to over 600 miles above the Earth's surface.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-of-the-ionosphere">Formation of the ionosphere</h3>



<p>The sun emits ultraviolet and X-ray radiation that interacts with the gases in the Earth's upper atmosphere, primarily stripping electrons from atoms and molecules, a process known as ionization. This interaction creates ions and free electrons, leading to the formation of the ionosphere.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-composition-and-structure">Composition and structure</h3>



<p>The ionosphere contains several distinct layers, each characterized by its unique density of ions and electrons. Scientists divide it mainly into the D, E, F1, and F2 layers.</p>



<p>D Layer: Existing from about 50 to 90 km above the Earth, the D layer mainly dissipates during the night due to the recombination of ions and electrons. It significantly absorbs lower-frequency radio waves, causing difficulties for long-distance radio communication during the day.</p>



<p>E Layer: This layer resides between approximately 90 to 120 km above the Earth. The E layer partially ionizes in the presence of sunlight and reflects medium-frequency radio waves, aiding in their propagation over long distances.</p>



<p>F Layer: The F layer extends above the E layer and usually splits into two sub-layers, F1 and F2, during the day. The F1 layer forms at about 140 km, while the F2 layer, which is the highest and most electron-dense layer, exists around 300 km above the Earth. The F layers facilitate the reflection of high-frequency radio waves, enabling long-distance communication, particularly during the night when the F layers combine.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ionosphere-and-radio-communication">Ionosphere and radio communication</h3>



<p>The ionosphere plays a pivotal role in radio communication by reflecting and refracting radio waves back to the Earth's surface. Radio operators often utilize the ionosphere to communicate over vast distances without the aid of satellites or cables. They select appropriate frequencies to maximize signal reach, ensuring that waves reflect off the ionosphere effectively, rather than passing through to space.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-and-practical-importance">Scientific and practical importance</h3>



<p>Understanding the ionosphere is crucial for various scientific and practical applications, such as the study of space weather, satellite communication, navigation systems, and radio astronomy.</p>



<p>Space Weather Studies: Scientists study the ionosphere to understand the effects of solar activities, like solar flares and geomagnetic storms, on the Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field. This knowledge is crucial for predicting space weather and its potential impact on technology and human activities.</p>



<p>Satellite Communication: The ionosphere influences satellite communication by altering the signal paths of radio waves as they traverse through it. Engineers and scientists monitor and study ionospheric conditions to mitigate disruption in satellite-based communication and navigation systems, like GPS.</p>



<p>Radio Astronomy: The ionosphere also affects the observation of celestial bodies using radio telescopes. Astronomers analyze ionospheric conditions to correct distortions in the received signals and to enhance the clarity and accuracy of their observations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-developments">Challenges and developments</h3>



<p>The dynamic nature of the ionosphere, influenced by solar activity, atmospheric conditions, and geomagnetic activity, poses challenges to our understanding and prediction of its behavior. Scientists employ advanced technologies, like ionosondes and satellites, to monitor the ionosphere continuously. They also develop sophisticated models to predict its variability and its effects on radio wave propagation.</p>



<p>Moreover, advancements in ionospheric research offer the possibility of harnessing this layer for technological innovations, such as developing new communication systems and improving existing technologies like GPS.</p>



<p>In summary, the ionosphere, with its charged particles and intricate layered structure, is a vital component of our planet’s atmosphere. It aids in the propagation of radio waves, impacting various technologies and scientific fields. </p>



<p>Continuous research and advancements in this domain are imperative for enhancing our understanding of the ionosphere, mitigating its challenges, and exploiting its potentials for scientific and technological advancements. The exploration of the ionosphere thus remains a key frontier in atmospheric and space science.</p>



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U.S. rocket launch ripped a hole in Earth's ionosphere

The U.S. Space Force has set a new record by...

<p>In the global fight against climate change, a cutting-edge approach is emerging to specifically target methane, which is responsible for roughly 30 percent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-endured-rapid-global-warming-300-million-years-ago/">global warming</a> since pre-industrial times</p>



<p>Experts from the <a href="https://www.sron.nl/">Netherlands Institute for Space Research</a> (SRON) have revolutionized methane detection by combining the power of Sentinel satellites and machine learning algorithms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This groundbreaking technology could provide a major boost to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by identifying super-emitters and other large methane sources.</p>



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



<p>Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, ranking second only to carbon dioxide in its contribution to global warming.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, its impact is more intense: a ton of methane can retain 30 times more heat than an equal amount of carbon dioxide over a century.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Importantly, the short lifespan of methane - about 10 years - makes it a prime target for rapid climate action.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-super-emitters">Methane super-emitters</h2>



<p>Methane emissions are not evenly distributed. Methane super-emitters, which are typically industrial facilities like oil and gas operations or coal mines, disproportionately contribute to the problem.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These sources often have equipment or infrastructure issues that lead to significant leaks. Identifying super-emitters has been a major challenge.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sentinel-satellites-nbsp">The Sentinel satellites&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Tropomi instrument aboard the Copernicus Sentinel-5P satellite creates a global map of methane concentrations every day, using shortwave infrared bands as unique fingerprints for methane detection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>SRON researchers have developed a new algorithm that uses machine learning to automatically identify methane super-emitters based on the satellite data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-plumes">Methane plumes</h2>



<p>"Before, we manually identified the largest emitters, but it remains difficult to search through the millions of Tropomi pixels. A methane plume often only covers a few pixels. We now automatically get a list of detections from the machine learning model every day," explained Berend Schuit from SRON.</p>



<p>“We check those manually every week to make sure we are confident about the detections. What remains, dozens of methane plumes every week, we publish online. We communicate persistent leaks to other satellites with higher resolution so they can precisely identify the source.”</p>



<p>“This information is used by the United Nations' International Methane Emissions Observatory to find a solution together with the responsible companies or authorities.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-golden-opportunity-nbsp">Golden opportunity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study co-author Bram Maasakkers said that the dozens of methane plumes that are detected by Tropomi every week present a golden opportunity in the fight against global warming,</p>



<p>“If it’s visible from space, it is serious. For the first time, we now get a good global picture of these super-emitters. In our publication, we describe the 2974 plumes that we found in 2021; 45% originate from oil and gas facilities but we also see plumes from urban areas (35%) and coal mines (20%)," said Maasakkers.</p>



<p>“We detect human-made emissions with a climate impact that is significantly larger than total greenhouse gas emissions of The Netherlands. In many cases, those leaks are easy to fix.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-multi-tiered-approach">A multi-tiered approach</h2>



<p>The Sentinel-5P, Sentinel-2, and Sentinel-3 satellites are used in a tiered approach to methane detection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While Sentinel-5P offers daily global coverage but lacks spatial resolution, Sentinel-2 can identify exact locations but doesn't offer daily coverage. Sentinel-3 sits at the sweet spot, providing both daily global coverage and remarkable resolution for methane detection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications">Study implications</h2>



<p>This new approach of using machine learning and a multi-tiered satellite system opens up vast opportunities in the fight against climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Sudhanshu Pandey, lead author and now scientist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, commented, “Who would have thought we can use three different Sentinel missions in a tiered approach to first spot methane super emitters from space globally with Tropomi on Sentinel-5P, then zooming in with Sentinel-3 and Sentinel-2, we’re able to identify the exact source responsible at facility level. This is the type of information we need to take swift action.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://acp.copernicus.org/articles/23/9071/2023/"><em>Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics</em></a>.</p>



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New methane detection method will expose super-emitters

In the global fight against climate change, a cutting-edge approach...

<p>In a recent study led by Professor Adrian David Cheok at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, researchers have successfully deciphered the emotional states of chickens through their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zebra-finches-use-both-calls-and-vision-to-coordinate-flight/">vocalizations</a>. This unique endeavor seeks to bridge the interspecies communication gap.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chicken-vocalizations">Chicken vocalizations</h2>



<p>The research, which is still awaiting peer review, has reported a groundbreaking achievement. The team determined the six emotional states of chickens - hunger, fear, anger, contentment, excitement, and distress - with 80% accuracy solely based on vocalizations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The preliminary findings have been documented in a paper submitted to <em>Nature Scientific Reports</em> and initially published in <a href="https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-3034567/v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research Square</a>.</p>



<p>Cheok, otherwise recognized for his sex robot research, humorously commented on this novel venture: “It’s a cluckin’ great leap for science! And this is just the beginning."</p>



<p>"We hope to be able to adapt these AI and ML techniques to other animals and lay the groundwork for incredible intelligence in the various animal-related industries. If we know what animals are feeling we can design a much better world for them.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-emotional-analysis-learning-deal">Deep Emotional Analysis Learning (DEAL)</h2>



<p>“Our methodology employs a cutting-edge AI technique we call Deep Emotional Analysis Learning (DEAL), a highly mathematical and innovative approach that allows for the nuanced understanding of emotional states through auditory data,” explained Cheok.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The innovative AI technique holds the promise of designing a more humane environment for animals by better comprehending their feelings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-expertise-nbsp">Collaborative expertise&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"We conducted our study with a sample of 80 chickens, meticulously recording and analyzing their vocalizations under various conditions," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"To ensure the accuracy of our system's interpretations, we collaborated with a team of eight animal psychologists and veterinary surgeons, who provided expert insights into the emotional states of the chickens."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accurate-results">Accurate results</h2>



<p>The researchers meticulously analyzed approximately 200 hours of chicken sounds. The AI system was trained on half of these recordings, where each sound was labeled with a corresponding emotional state.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When tested on the remaining 100 hours of chicken vocalizations, the system impressively pinpointed the chickens' emotional states most of the time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-welfare">Animal welfare</h2>



<p>“This research not only opens up new avenues for understanding and improving animal welfare but also sets a precedent for further studies in AI-driven interspecies communication,” said the study authors.</p>



<p>They noted that chickens are “highly social animals” and plan to create a free app so that farmers can use the technology to communicate with their chickens.</p>



<p>According to the researchers, this study not only enhances our understanding of animal welfare but also sets the foundation for further exploration in AI-facilitated interspecies communication.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-implications-nbsp">Study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Farming Online recognizes the immense potential of this research, saying that it could redefine animal welfare, advance veterinary medicine, improve poultry farming conditions, and assist animal behavior research, among other applications.</p>



<p>"The novelty of our approach lies in its application of sophisticated AI techniques to a largely unexplored area of study," concluded the researchers.</p>



<p>"By bridging the gap between human and animal communication, we believe our research will pave the way for more empathetic and effective interactions with the animal kingdom."</p>



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Experts can now decipher the emotional states of chickens

In a recent study led by Professor Adrian David Cheok...

Night,Landscape,With,The,Milky,Way,In,Namibia,In,The

<p>A recent study has shone a new light on our understanding of the universe, revealing that Milky Way-like galaxies are not as rare as previously thought. In fact, they are are surprisingly common, reshaping notions surrounding galaxy formation and evolution. </p>



<p>The study involved an international team of researchers, including prominent scientists from the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a> and the <a href="https://www.uvic.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Victoria</a> in Canada, utilizing the advanced <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shift-in-cosmic-perspectives">Shift in cosmic perspectives</h2>



<p>The conventional wisdom was that galaxies resembling our Milky Way were scarce due to their delicate nature. The use of the <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hubble/main/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> had led scientists to think that disc galaxies scarcely existed until the universe was approximately six billion years old. </p>



<p>However, the findings from the new study, published in the <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/acc45c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astrophysical Journal</a>, reveal that such galaxies were ten times more prevalent and have existed much longer, forming around 10 billion years ago or even earlier.</p>



<p>Professor Christopher Conselice, a Professor of Extragalactic Astronomy at the University of Manchester, noted, "These JWST results show that disk <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-galaxy-cluster-as-it-appeared-4-6-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> like our own Milky Way are the most common type of galaxy in the Universe. This implies that most stars exist and form within these galaxies which is changing our complete understanding of how galaxy formation occurs."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pioneering-discoveries-with-webb">Pioneering discoveries with Webb</h2>



<p>The JWST has played a pivotal role in these discoveries, illustrating its unparalleled ability to uncover details about galaxies’ structures far earlier in the universe than scientists had anticipated. </p>



<p>Lead author Leonardo Ferreira from the University of Victoria commented on the instrumental role of the JWST, saying, "The fact that JWST finds so many [disc galaxies] is another sign of the power of this instrument."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debunking-the-fragility-myth">Debunking the fragility myth</h2>



<p>The longevity and commonality of Milky Way-like galaxies dispel previous notions about their rarity stemming from their fragile nature and supposed susceptibility to the violent encounters that galaxies frequently undergo. </p>



<p>The newfound abundance of these galaxies is compelling evidence that these entities form much earlier in the Universe than researchers had estimated.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-galactic-understanding">Rewriting galactic understanding</h2>



<p>These revelations raise fundamental questions about the formation of the first galaxies and the evolution of galaxy over the last 10 billion years, necessitating a comprehensive reevaluation of our understanding of the universe. </p>



<p>Professor Conselice stressed the significance of these findings, stating, "Based on our results astronomers must rethink our understanding of the formation of the first galaxies and how galaxy evolution occurred over the past 10 billion years."</p>



<p>Moreover, the results imply profound implications for our understanding of dark matter in the early universe, about which little is currently known. The fact that the majority of stars exist and form within these common disk galaxies is reshaping the entire scientific perspective on galaxy formation and dark matter, propelling forward our comprehension of cosmological phenomena.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-next-steps">Implications and next steps</h2>



<p>These findings open up a realm of new questions and doubts regarding the universe's evolution and galaxy formation, obliging scientists to reconsider existing theories and models. The advanced insights provided by the JWST will continue to be crucial in answering these emerging questions and refining our knowledge of the cosmos.</p>



<p>The discovery of the abundance of Milky Way-like galaxies marks a transformative moment in astronomy and cosmology, offering new pathways for exploring the complexities of the universe and prompting renewed curiosity and fascination with the mysteries of the cosmos. </p>



<p>The continued exploration and research into galaxies and the universe will undoubtedly unravel more secrets and deepen our understanding of our place in the cosmos.</p>



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Galaxies like our own Milky Way are not unique

A recent study has shone a new light on our...

Hubble’s Crisp New Image of Jupiter and Europa

<p>At a glance, it seems rather perplexing: five months post-launch and the spacecraft named Juice has covered 370 million kilometers, which represents a mere 5% of its journey to Jupiter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To explain the extended timeline, the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> breaks down the science of flight dynamics and orbital mechanics.</p>



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



<p>Every celestial body in our universe - planets, moons, stars, or galaxies - orbits another entity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Earth orbits the Sun at a 30 km/s. When a spacecraft is launched from our planet, it inherits this orbital energy, effectively placing it in a similar orbit around the Sun as Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-for-juice-nbsp">Challenges for Juice&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One might assume the most efficient route to Jupiter would be a straight line, but this approach has its challenges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Not only would it require immense fuel to propel the spacecraft in such a direction, but an even greater fuel reserve would be essential to decelerate and orbit Jupiter upon arrival, lest the spacecraft overshoot its target.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-targets">Moving targets</h2>



<p>Earth and Jupiter, in their eternal celestial journey around the Sun, are constantly changing positions relative to each other.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their distance varies, reaching a maximum of 968 million kilometers and a minimum of just under 600 million.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Given this perpetual motion, aiming a spacecraft directly at Jupiter is not feasible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, flight engineers must anticipate where Jupiter will be when the spacecraft arrives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The planets are all moving at different rates in their orbits around the Sun," said ESA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Imagine throwing a ball at a moving target from a moving vehicle. Engineers must calculate the ideal time to make the jump on a circular path from Earth’s orbit to where Jupiter will be when the spacecraft arrives, not where it is when the spacecraft leaves Earth."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flyby-missions">Flyby missions</h2>



<p>Historically, missions like Voyager, Pioneer, and New Horizons have managed to reach Jupiter in under two years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, these missions were mere flybys, using Jupiter as a gravitational slingshot to other destinations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-and-mass">Energy and mass</h2>



<p>To maintain an extended presence around Jupiter, the approach must be slower.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A spacecraft's mass plays a pivotal role here. More mass implies more fuel, which in turn affects the launch complexity. Juice, weighing in at over 6,000 kg, is one of the heaviest interplanetary probes to date.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even with the immense power of the Ariane 5 rocket, a direct two-year trajectory to Jupiter wasn't viable.</p>



<p>The solution lies in gravity-assist or flyby maneuvers. These maneuvers utilize the gravitational pull of celestial bodies to boost the spacecraft's speed, a cosmic dance that trades energy between the spacecraft and planets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trading-energy-nbsp">Trading energy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Juice's itinerary includes a series of flybys involving Earth, the Moon, and Venus. These maneuvers will position it for its grand rendezvous with the Jovian system in July 2031.</p>



<p>The journey, filled with an unprecedented 35 flybys of Jupiter's moons, will end with Juice entering the orbit of Ganymede, marking a historic first for humankind.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-precise-maneuvers-nbsp">Precise maneuvers&nbsp;</h2>



<p>But such intricate space choreography is not without challenges. Every maneuver must be precise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Even slight miscalculations could lead to the probe being lost in space or requiring extensive fuel to correct its course.</p>



<p>The overarching goal of Juice's mission is to study the potentially life-harboring oceans beneath the icy surfaces of Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Through this grand exploration, insights into the formation of planets and moons across the universe might be gleaned.</p>



<p>For updates, you can follow the mission's progress on Twitter via @ESAJuiceBar.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



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Why is our trip to Jupiter taking so long?

At a glance, it seems rather perplexing: five months post-launch...

<p>UPDATE: NASA's OSIRIS-REx, the inaugural mission from the U.S. to retrieve a sample from an asteroid, is set to return to Earth on September 24, 2023, carrying materials from asteroid Bennu. Upon arrival, the spacecraft will dispatch the sample capsule, ensuring a secure landing in the Utah desert. The untouched materials from Bennu – consisting of rocks and dust gathered from the asteroid’s surface in 2020 – will provide future scientists insights into the period approximately 4.5 billion years ago when the Sun and planets were in their formative stages.</p>



<p>NASA’s live coverage&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/osiris-rex" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSIRIS-REx</a>&nbsp;sample capsule landing starts at 10 a.m. EDT (8 a.m. MDT) and will air on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/NASA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fb.me/e/2VE7EwfNp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21X5lGlDOfg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.twitch.tv/nasa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twitch</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/#public" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA TV</a>, the NASA app, and the&nbsp;<a href="http://nasa.gov/live" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agency’s website</a>.</p>



<p>Watch live coverage&nbsp;Spanish on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nasa_es">X</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NASAes/">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/nasa_es">YouTube</a>.</p>



<p>----</p>



<p>NASA is edging closer to the conclusion of its ambitious seven-year mission, aiming to prevent a catastrophic collision of a massive asteroid named <a href="https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/asteroids-comets-and-meteors/asteroids/101955-bennu/overview/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bennu</a> with Earth. Recent findings have indicated that there's a 1 in 2700 chance of Bennu slamming into Earth on September 24, 2182.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-menace-of-asteroid-bennu">The menace of asteroid Bennu</h2>



<p>Roughly the size of the iconic Empire State Building, Bennu spans about a third of a mile wide. The potential aftermath of its predicted collision with Earth could equate to the explosive energy of 22 atomic bombs. </p>



<p>The asteroid makes its presence felt by passing Earth approximately every six years. However, scientists anticipate that its most perilous close encounter could be a mere 159 years away.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OSIRIS-REx mission</h2>



<p>In a proactive move, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> dispatched a spacecraft to Bennu in 2016. This mission was crucial for collecting samples and advancing the agency's strategy to stave off a doomsday-like asteroid deflection scenario.</p>



<p>"It feels very much like the last few miles of a marathon, with a confluence of emotions like pride and joy coexisting with a determined focus to complete the race well,” expressed an impassioned Rich Burns, the project manager for OSIRIS-REx at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Historic sample collection</h2>



<p>In October 2020, NASA's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/osiris-rex-is-bringing-an-asteroid-sample-back-to-earth-this-month-worrying-many-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OSIRIS-REx</a> spacecraft made history by alighting on Bennu's surface and procuring a chunk of rocky material. Weighing in at approximately 8.8 ounces (250 grams), this represents not only NASA's inaugural asteroid sample but also the largest ever extracted from space.</p>



<p>Come this Sunday, September 24 at around 10:42 AM U.S. Eastern Time, the world will watch with bated breath as the OSIRIS-REx mission dispatches this precious sample <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/OSIRIS-REx_mission_infographic_2big-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">back to Earth</a>. When the spacecraft is roughly 63,000 miles from Earth, it will jettison the sample-return capsule, roughly the size of a mini-fridge.</p>



<p>Entering Earth's atmosphere at an intense 28,000 mph, enduring temperatures akin to double that of lava, the capsule's descent will be <a href="https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/20381/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tempered using parachutes</a>. This will ensure a controlled landing in the Great Salt Lake Desert, Utah, marking the culmination of the OSIRIS-REx's monumental seven-year odyssey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Deciphering the secrets of the solar system</h2>



<p>These asteroid fragments are expected to furnish scientists with a rare peek into the planet formation phenomena that created our solar system approximately 4.5 billion years ago.</p>



<p>"Pristine material from asteroid Bennu will help shed light on the formation of our solar system 4.5 billion years ago and perhaps even on how life on Earth began,” elucidated Nicola Fox, an associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Origin of asteroid Bennu's name</h2>



<p>Discovered in September 1999 by the <a href="https://www.ll.mit.edu/impact/watch-potentially-hazardous-asteroids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research</a> (LINEAR) survey, the asteroid initially bore the moniker 1999 RQ36. It wasn't until 2013 that a nine-year-old from North Carolina christened it Bennu. Following his triumph in the 'Name that Asteroid!' competition, he drew inspiration for the name from an ancient Egyptian deity.</p>



<p>As NASA approaches the final leg of this critical mission, the world watches in anticipation, rooting for its success and the vast potential knowledge it promises to unravel about our universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-asteroid-bennu">More about asteroid Bennu</h2>



<p>As mentioned above, asteroid Bennu stands as one of the most intriguing celestial bodies in our solar system. This near-Earth asteroid, discovered in 1999, presents scientists with both a chance to study the early solar system and an opportunity to better understand potential asteroid threats.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-formation-and-composition">Formation and composition</h3>



<p>Bennu originated from the primordial debris that helped form our solar system about 4.5 billion years ago. This diamond-shaped rock measures about 500 meters in diameter. This is roughly equivalent to the height of the Empire State Building. Researchers believe that Bennu offers insights into the raw materials present during the solar system's early days because of its rudimentary nature.</p>



<p>When scientists examine Bennu's surface, they find a dark and rocky world. The asteroid's rough landscape consists primarily of boulders and rocks, with very few flat areas. The darkness of Bennu's surface comes from its carbon-rich composition, indicating that organic molecules, which form the basis for life as we know it, might exist there.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-and-potential-threat">Path and potential threat</h3>



<p>Bennu orbits the Sun on a trajectory that occasionally brings it close to Earth. While currently it poses no direct threat, its orbit intersects with Earth's, which classifies Bennu as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA). </p>



<p>As mentioned previously, researchers estimate that there is a 1 in 2,700 chance of Bennu impacting Earth in the late 22nd century. However, scientists constantly monitor its trajectory to ensure we have an accurate understanding of any future threat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-osiris-rex-a-truly-groundbreaking-mission">OSIRIS-REx: A truly groundbreaking mission</h3>



<p>The allure and potential importance of Bennu led NASA to launch the OSIRIS-REx mission in 2016. This spacecraft aimed to approach, study, and collect a sample from Bennu's surface. The mission achieved multiple milestones. These include the detailed mapping of the asteroid's surface, gaining insights into its geology, and understanding its rotational dynamics.</p>



<p>In 2020, a significant achievement for the mission occurred when OSIRIS-REx touched Bennu's surface and successfully collected samples. The spacecraft will return these samples to Earth on September 24, 2023, offering scientists a pristine piece of the early solar system to analyze.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-the-future">Implications for the future</h3>



<p>Understanding Bennu serves a dual purpose. On one hand, its study aids our comprehension of the origins of life on Earth. The presence of organic molecules on Bennu could provide clues about the building blocks of life and their distribution throughout the solar system. </p>



<p>On the other hand, understanding the properties and trajectories of near-Earth asteroids like Bennu is crucial for planetary defense. This knowledge enables us to predict and possibly mitigate potential future impacts.</p>



<p>In summary, Bennu represents more than just a floating rock in space. It's a bridge to our past, a beacon for scientific discovery, and a reminder of the dynamic nature of our solar system. Through the combined efforts of observational astronomy and space missions like OSIRIS-REx, we continue to unveil the secrets Bennu holds.</p>



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Mission to prevent Earth collision with asteroid Bennu lands in Utah today

UPDATE: NASA's OSIRIS-REx, the inaugural mission from the U.S. to...

<p>World Gorilla Day marks its 7th anniversary today, pushing for greater awareness and investment in gorilla conservation.</p>



<p>Since its inauguration in 2017, World Gorilla Day has served as a focal point for people worldwide to celebrate these magnificent creatures and commit to their protection. </p>



<p>While it is clear that collective action and awareness-raising have been making a difference, much more work remains to be done.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-legacy-of-dian-fossey">The legacy of Dian Fossey</h2>



<p>The celebration of World Gorilla Day coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Karisoke Research Center, founded by the late primatologist Dian Fossey.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As the longest-running gorilla field study site, Karisoke continues to focus on the research, conservation, and protection of gorillas in Africa. However, despite the dedication of numerous organizations and individuals, there is a need for increased investment and public awareness to bolster the survival chances for gorillas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-state-of-mountain-gorillas">Critical state of mountain gorillas</h2>



<p>The mountain gorilla, living in high-altitude mountain and bamboo forests, remains critically endangered. With just around 880 of them left in the wild, their habitat is constantly threatened by human activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, mining for coltan, a mineral used in small electronic devices, has led to significant habitat destruction in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, displacing or even killing gorillas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recycle-old-cell-phones">Recycle old cell phones</h2>



<p>The annual “Gorillas on the Line…Answer the Call” campaign focuses on recycling small electronic devices to decrease the demand for coltan and preserve gorilla habitats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recycling old cell phones and other devices helps reduce the negative impact of coltan mining on gorilla habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-help-support-virunga-national-park">Help support Virunga National Park</h2>



<p>Protecting gorillas in conflict zones, particularly in Virunga National Park, is a monumental task that requires the tireless efforts of over 770 Rangers. Their unyielding spirit and determination are a testament to the significance of conserving this endangered species.</p>



<p>Over the past year, the security situation at Virunga National Park has become extremely dangerous, with rebel groups controlling the Park’s southern sector – an area which spans the endangered mountain gorilla habitat and Park headquarters. </p>



<p>"Tragically, ten of our brave Rangers have lost their lives in unprovoked attacks in 2023 alone," the park said on its <a href="https://virunga.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a>. "With the support of local communities, dedication of our Rangers and adoption of new technologies, we are persisting in our efforts to preserve the Park’s rich biodiversity."</p>



<p><a href="https://virunga.org/support-us/donate/#:~:text=Over%20the%20past%20year%2C%20the,unprovoked%20attacks%20in%202023%20alone." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Your donation</a> will help us stand strong in the midst of these challenging circumstance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adopt-a-gorilla">Adopt a gorilla</h2>



<p>World Wildlife Fund (WWF) provides us with the opportunity to symbolically <a href="https://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Species-Adoptions/Gorilla.aspx?sc=AWY2204OQ19293A01785RX&amp;gad=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwvL-oBhCxARIsAHkOiu1Re3bdC-CalTNUixRz80rUioRz6FHZwKsfYJTd5pgGOe5egKnUikMaAgL6EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adopt a gorilla</a> to support their conservation efforts. </p>



<p>"For more than 60 years, WWF has been protecting the future of nature. WWF works in nearly 100 countries and is supported by 1.3 million members in the United States and more than 5 million members globally," the organization says on its website.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Your donation provides general support and makes you a member. 83% of spending is directed to worldwide conservation activities."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-gorillas">More about gorillas</h2>



<p>Gorillas are the largest of the great apes and are divided mainly into two species: the Eastern gorilla and the Western gorilla. Each of these species has two subspecies.&nbsp;</p>



<ul>
<li>Eastern gorilla: The subspecies are the Mountain gorilla and the Eastern Lowland gorilla.&nbsp;</li>



<li>Western gorilla: The subspecies are the Western Lowland gorilla and the Cross River gorilla.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat">Habitat</h3>



<p>Mountain gorillas are found in the cloud forests of Central Africa, specifically in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They live at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 13,000 feet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Western Lowland gorillas inhabit the rainforests of Central and West Africa, including countries like Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-structure-and-behavior">Social structure and behavior</h3>



<p>Gorillas live in groups called troops, which typically consist of one dominant male, known as the silverback, along with multiple females and their offspring. The silverback serves as the protector and decision-maker of the troop.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Gorillas communicate through vocalizations, body postures, and facial expressions. Their social structure is remarkably intricate, built on strong family ties and relationships.</p>



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



<p>Gorillas are primarily herbivorous, relying on leaves, shoots, and stems as their main food sources. They also eat fruits, small insects, and, occasionally, small vertebrates. Their diet varies by habitat and availability of food sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threats-and-conservation-efforts">Threats and conservation efforts</h3>



<p>The survival of gorillas is increasingly threatened due to habitat loss, poaching, and disease. For instance, diseases transmitted by humans, such as respiratory infections, have become a significant concern. Illegal hunting for bushmeat and capture for the illegal pet trade also puts pressure on gorilla populations.</p>



<p>Efforts to conserve gorillas include establishing and maintaining national parks and reserves, implementing anti-poaching measures, and community engagement programs to encourage local populations to become stewards of gorilla conservation. Initiatives like World Gorilla Day play a crucial role in raising awareness and funds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-health">Ecosystem health</h3>



<p>Gorillas have a multifaceted role in maintaining the health and stability of their ecosystems. Their decline or extinction would have cascading effects, potentially leading to reduced biodiversity, compromised forest health, and weakened ecosystem services, emphasizing the importance of their conservation.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seed-dispersal">Seed dispersal</h4>



<p>Gorillas have a primarily vegetarian diet, which includes a variety of fruits. After consuming these fruits, they excrete the seeds in different locations. This seed dispersal is vital for forest regeneration and increasing plant diversity. Many of the plants they consume rely on gorillas to help their seeds spread and germinate.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutrient-recycling">Nutrient recycling</h4>



<p>By feeding on vegetation and subsequently excreting waste, gorillas play a part in recycling vital nutrients in the forest ecosystem. Their waste enriches the soil, promoting plant growth.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-health-and-dynamics">Forest health and dynamics</h4>



<p>Gorillas, particularly the Western Lowland gorilla, are known to clear vegetation in areas where they nest each night. This seemingly small act has a cumulative effect, creating clearings in forests that allow new plants to grow and letting sunlight penetrate deeper into the forest. This dynamic action affects forest composition and structure over time.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-control-of-herbivore-populations">Control of herbivore populations</h4>



<p>While gorillas are herbivores, their presence can influence the density and behavior of other herbivorous animals in the ecosystem due to competition for food resources.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioindicator-species">Bioindicator species</h4>



<p>Gorillas, being at the top of their food chain and reliant on a specific habitat, can serve as an indicator of the overall health of their ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If gorilla populations are thriving, it often indicates that the lower levels of the food chain are in balance and that the habitat is healthy. Conversely, declining gorilla populations might indicate problems in the ecosystem.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-and-cultural-importance">Economic and cultural importance</h4>



<p>While not a direct ecological role, gorillas play a crucial role in the local economy and culture of regions where they inhabit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Gorilla trekking and ecotourism attract thousands of visitors, providing significant revenue and jobs. These tourism activities often fund conservation projects which benefit not only the gorillas but the broader ecosystem.</p>



<p>As we celebrate World Gorilla Day, it is essential to recognize their intrinsic value as unique and complex creatures, as well as their significance to ecosystems. The plight of the gorilla is more than a conservation issue; it is a call to uphold the interconnectedness of life on Earth.</p>



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World Gorilla Day: Supporting the guardians of the forest

World Gorilla Day marks its 7th anniversary today, pushing for...