<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features smoke streaming over the Atlantic Ocean from a deadly fire outbreak in Portugal. The Copernicus Sentinel-3 image was captured on September 17, 2024.</p>



<p>“Dozens of wildfires are reported throughout the country, mainly in the north. The fires forced the closure of two railway lines and several motorways, including part of the main road between Lisbon and Porto,” said <a href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-firefighters-stretched-to-the-limit">Firefighters stretched to the limit</h2>



<p>According to a report from NPR, more than 100 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-season-of-2023-redefined-what-is-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> stretched thousands of firefighters to the limit in northern Portugal on Wednesday, as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro declared a state of calamity.</p>



<p>"We are well aware that these difficult hours are not over yet," Montenegro told the nation. "We have to continue to give everything we have and ask for help from our partners and friends so that we can reinforce the protection of our people and property."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-outbreak-in-northern-and-central-portugal-nbsp">Fire outbreak in northern and central Portugal&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The fires have been fueled by dry conditions, strong winds, and high temperatures. The northern and central regions of Portugal, particularly in areas like Aveiro and Albergaria-a-Velha, have been hit hardest by the fire outbreak.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over 5,000 firefighters were deployed to combat the flames, but the blazes have still managed to consume over 62,000 hectares of land, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people, including firefighters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-fire-damage-and-evacuations">Widespread fire damage and evacuations</h2>



<p>Residents were forced to evacuate, with many homes and industrial areas destroyed. Roads were also closed due to the encroaching flames and thick <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoke</a>, severely affecting transportation.</p>



<p>NPR said that while authorities have yet to release figures for property damage or the number of evacuees, Portuguese state broadcaster RTP has shown charred houses in rural villages and local residents trying to battle flames with buckets of water, hoses, and even large tree branches.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-responding-to-the-portugal-fires">Responding to the Portugal fires</h2>



<p>The situation became so severe that Portugal sought assistance from the European Union. Greece, Spain, and France contributed firefighting aircraft, while the European Commission activated its RescEU program to provide additional support.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The Copernicus Emergency Management Service was activated to help authorities respond to the emergency,” said ESA.</p>



<p>“Using satellite data, the service provides information for emergency response for different types of disasters, including meteorological and geophysical hazards, deliberate and accidental disasters, humanitarian disasters, and for prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-climate-breakdown">A climate breakdown</h2>



<p>The situation remains critical, although there are signs of improvement as the weather is expected to turn, which could help contain the fires.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The dry conditions which fueled the wildfire outbreak in Portugal coincided with deadly flooding in central Europe. The European Union said that the juxtaposed extreme weather events are proof of a “climate breakdown.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-conditions-and-fire-outbreaks-nbsp">Dry conditions and fire outbreaks&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Hot, dry conditions are a key factor in the outbreak and spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>. These conditions create a highly flammable environment where vegetation, like grasses, shrubs, and trees, becomes dry and can easily ignite.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-vegetation">Dry vegetation</h3>



<p>When the weather is dry for extended periods, vegetation loses its moisture content and becomes more combustible. Even a small spark can set off a fire in such conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-temperatures-nbsp">High temperatures&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Heat intensifies the drying of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a> and raises the temperature of the fuel (plants, leaves, etc.), making it easier for it to catch fire and spread. High temperatures also reduce soil moisture, drying out more of the surrounding area.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-fans-the-flames">Wind fans the flames </h3>



<p>In dry, hot conditions, winds can carry embers to new locations, causing fires to spread rapidly. Wind also fans the flames, intensifying the heat and increasing the speed of the fire's movement.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-humidity">Low humidity</h3>



<p>Dry air, often measured by low humidity levels, exacerbates fire risk. When humidity is low, moisture is drawn out of plants and soil more quickly, further drying the landscape.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-and-human-activity">Lightning and human activity</h3>



<p>In hot, dry conditions, natural causes like lightning can ignite wildfires. However, human activities (campfires, discarded cigarettes, power lines) also play a significant role, particularly in areas that are primed for fire due to these weather patterns.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-nbsp">Climate change&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In areas prone to drought, wildfires can be particularly destructive, and as climate change intensifies, hotter and drier weather is becoming more common, increasing wildfire risks globally.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</p>



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More than 100 fires are burning in Portugal

Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features an astronaut photograph of Fayzabad, a culturally diverse city in the Kokcha River valley of northern Afghanistan. The photo was captured as the International Space Station passed over central Asia.</p>



<p>Fayzabad is the capital of the Badakhshan Province. It is located in a mountainous part of northeastern Afghanistan at an elevation of about 4,000 feet.</p>



<p>“The city is situated along the Kokcha River, which flows northward within a deep river valley surrounded by the Hindu Kush Mountains and eventually discharges into the Amu Darya River,” noted NASA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-fayzabad-nbsp">Climate of Fayzabad&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the climate of Fayzabad varies from cold semi-arid to Mediterranean-influenced warm-summer humid continental.</p>



<p>The summer months are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The winter months are cold, with average low temperatures often dropping below freezing - sometimes reaching as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The region receives moderate precipitation, mostly during the spring and winter. Snowfall is common in winter, adding to the mountainous region's picturesque landscape.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fayzabad-culture">Fayzabad culture</h2>



<p>Historically, Fayzabad has been a center of learning and culture, though its development has been hampered by years of conflict.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite these challenges, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-started-cumulative-culture-around-600000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> remains a vital component of the region, which is known for its traditional crafts including weaving and embroidery.</p>



<p>Cultural life in Fayzabad is influenced by its predominantly Tajik population, along with other ethnic groups such as Uzbeks and Hazaras. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional Afghan flavors, incorporating ingredients like rice, meat, and a variety of spices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-use-changes-nbsp">Land use changes&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This territory has experienced notable changes in its land use in recent decades, especially with commercial and administrative growth near the airport,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>“Among the changes: a new airstrip built west of the Kokcha River. However, mountains hem in the city and limit how much development is possible.”</p>



<p>“Despite these topographical barriers, some development has spread into hilly areas south of Fayzabad. Green vegetation is mostly confined to mountain valleys, stream channels, and the Kokcha River floodplain.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The Kokcha River meanders through the valley, providing a vital water resource for the region. Fields of predominantly wheat and rice cover much of the floodplain, though these flat areas are mixed with residential, industrial, and commercial activity as well.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kokcha-river-nbsp">Kokcha River&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Kokcha River originates in the Hindu Kush mountains. It stretches approximately 360 kilometers before joining the Amu Darya, one of Central Asia's major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hypoxia-is-a-serious-problem-in-rivers-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rivers</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Kokcha River traverses rugged terrain, providing vital irrigation for agriculture in the region and supporting local communities' livelihoods.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-amount-of-water-do-earths-rivers-hold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">river</a> basin features diverse landscapes that include mountainous areas and fertile valleys.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Throughout history, the Kokcha River has played a crucial role in the region's cultural and economic development, serving as a natural resource for the inhabitants and influencing settlement patterns.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Fayzabad and the Kokcha River valley 

Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features...

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features a plume of Saharan dust pouring off the coast of southern Morocco.</p>



<p>The Sahara Desert is the world's biggest source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-is-an-understudied-contributor-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">airborne dust</a>. Each year, it releases hundreds of millions of tons of mineral dust that are lifted into the atmosphere and transported across vast distances up to thousands of miles. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-air-layer-nbsp">Saharan Air Layer&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The transport of Saharan dust is primarily driven by the trade winds and atmospheric phenomena such as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). This dry air mass often accompanies tropical storms across the Atlantic, sometimes even influencing the development and intensity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saharan-dust-can-intensify-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“From late spring to early fall, it is common for the dry, dusty Saharan Air Layer to carry the particles westward across the Atlantic Ocean high in the atmosphere. With different wind patterns in the winter and spring, dust emerging from North Africa can drift over the United Kingdom and western Europe at relatively low altitudes,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153246/dust-pours-off-the-moroccan-coast" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“Saharan Air Layer activity subsides after mid-August, according to NOAA, making it less likely that the plume shown here is bound for a transoceanic journey. Instead, it arcs to the north after blowing out over the ocean. Earlier in the summer, however, several clouds of fine dust from the Sahara reached the United States, creating hazy skies over Texas.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-saharan-dust-nbsp">Impacts of Saharan dust&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Saharan dust plays a crucial role in global climate and environmental systems. For example, Saharan dust can affect weather patterns by absorbing and scattering sunlight, influencing temperature and cloud formation. It also plays a role in fertilizing ecosystems, such as the Amazon rainforest, by providing essential nutrients like iron and phosphorus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, Saharan dust also has more complex impacts. It can reduce air quality, leading to respiratory issues in people living downwind of the dust. In addition, the dust impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/atmospheric-dust-plays-surprisingly-crucial-role-in-stabilizing-ocean-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> health by contributing to algae blooms, which can create dead zones in marine environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-clouds-and-human-health">Dust clouds and human health</h2>



<p>In a recent study from Texas A&amp;M University, researchers explored the potential health impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sahara-desert-dust-storms-carry-harmful-bacteria-and-fungi-around-the-globe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria and fungi</a> that travel within dust plumes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).</p>



<p>Study co-author Dr. Daniel Spalink noted that while the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in African dust, it is not yet known if they can infect us and make us sick. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summertime-dust-events">Summertime dust events</h2>



<p>“Scientists are interested in summertime Saharan dust events in part because of the influence they can have on large storm systems. Dry, stable, dust-laden air can inhibit tropical cyclone formation in the North Atlantic. And in a new study, researchers found that dust can modulate the amount of rainfall brought by these storms,” noted NASA.</p>



<p>“Using a machine-learning model based on meteorological data, NASA’s IMERG (Integrated Multi-Satellite Retrievals for GPM) precipitation estimates, and other satellite measurements, the study’s authors found that dust optical depth - a measure of how much light filters through a dusty plume - was a key predictor of rainfall from tropical cyclones.”</p>



<p>The researchers concluded that smaller amounts of dust particles promote the formation of rain clouds, while the sunlight-blocking effects of large dust clouds ultimately suppress precipitation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saharan-dust-storms">Saharan dust storms</h2>



<p>Dust storms in the Sahara Desert are some of the most far-reaching in the world. These storms, also known as haboobs, occur when strong winds lift large quantities of sand and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-impacts-dust-levels-on-a-global-scale/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dust</a> from the desert's surface into the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Saharan dust storms vary in intensity, with some being relatively mild while others are severe, reducing visibility to almost zero and creating hazardous conditions. They often happen in the spring and early summer when the temperature difference between the desert and the surrounding regions creates strong pressure gradients, fueling powerful winds.</p>



<p>Ultimately, these dust storms are a natural part of life. They shape the landscape over time by eroding rock formations and redistributing sand dunes. Despite their destructive potential, they are also a reminder of the dynamic and interconnected nature of Earth's climate systems.</p>



<p>The image was captured on August 24, 2024 by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory&nbsp;</p>



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Saharan dust launches off the Moroccan coast

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features a false-color radar depiction of central Ethiopia.</p>



<p>According to ESA, the photograph is a blend of multiple Sentinel-1 images from spring, summer and autumn 2023, which have been overlaid to create this single image.</p>



<p>“Radar images capture surface texture rather than reflected light so they are naturally black and white but here images from each season have been assigned a different color: red, green and blue respectively,” explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“When the images are combined, the different colors reveal variations that occurred in the different seasons.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rugged-terrain-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Rugged terrain of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>ESA noted that Ethiopia’s terrain is one of the most rugged in Africa. The landscape is primarily characterized by highlands and plateaus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the Roof of Africa, dominate this region and include some of the highest peaks in Africa, such as Ras Dashen. The terrain features steep escarpments, deep valleys, and numerous rivers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The central part of the country is also home to the Great Rift Valley, which runs through Ethiopia and includes a series of lakes and volcanic mountains. This region's varied topography contributes to its rich biodiversity and distinct climate zones.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lakes-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Lakes of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to ESA, water bodies appear dark in this image because flat water surfaces reflect the radar signal away from the satellite. “The various colors visible in some lakes are due either to the changing surface currents and sediments from rivers or to variations in water level.”</p>



<p>Lake Ziway is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-flamingos-at-risk-due-to-rising-lake-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lakes</a> in the region. It is located about 160 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The lake is known for its rich bird diversity, including large populations of pelicans, cormorants, and herons. Lake Ziway also supports local fishing communities.</p>



<p>Lake Shala is the deepest lake in the Ethiopian Rift Valley and is known for its volcanic origins. It has a maximum depth of 266 meters and is surrounded by hot springs and steep, rocky cliffs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Climate of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Central Ethiopia features a diverse climate, primarily influenced by its elevation and geographical location within the tropics.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highland-climate">Highland climate</h3>



<p>Much of central Ethiopia consists of highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 3,000 meters above sea level. These highlands experience a temperate climate, with cooler <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-in-africa-are-rising-above-levels-that-rhinoceros-can-tolerate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a> compared to the lowlands.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The average temperatures range from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher elevations, such as those found in the Ethiopian Highlands, can experience temperatures that are close to freezing at night.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rainy-seasons">Rainy seasons</h3>



<p>Central Ethiopia has two main rainy seasons. The primary rainy season, known as the "Kiremt," occurs from June to September and brings the majority of the annual rainfall.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The "Belg," or short rainy season, occurs from March to May. The rainfall during these periods supports agriculture, which is a key part of the region's economy.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dry-season">Dry season</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/africas-wet-forests-have-seen-an-alarming-rise-in-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dry season</a>, known as the "Bega," spans from October to February.&nbsp;During this time, the region experiences significantly less rainfall, and the weather tends to be sunny and dry. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-of-central-ethiopia-nbsp">Culture of central Ethiopia&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-create-their-own-culture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">culture</a> of central Ethiopia is a dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. This culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a profound connection to the region's historical and spiritual roots.</p>



<p>The Amhara people have played a significant role in the cultural and political life of central Ethiopia. The Amhara are known for their rich heritage, which includes the Amharic language, a Semitic tongue that serves as one of the country's official languages.</p>



<p>Orthodox Christianity is a key aspect of central Ethiopian culture, particularly among the Amhara and other highland communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This part of East Africa is also known for its traditional music and dance, which reflect the region's historical depth and cultural diversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The cuisine of central Ethiopia is another significant cultural aspect, with injera (a spongy flatbread made from teff) being a staple food.&nbsp;Injera is typically served with a variety of stews (wats) and salads.</p>



<p>The communal eating experience, where meals are shared from a single large plate, emphasizes the importance of community and togetherness.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</p>



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The vibrant seasons of central Ethiopia

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features NGC 6744 - a large, barred spiral galaxy located approximately 30 million light-years away in the constellation Pavo.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The galaxy is often considered a close analog to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> due to its similar structure and size, spanning about 175,000 light-years across.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-euclid-space-mission-nbsp">Euclid space mission&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The image was captured by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Euclid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Euclid</a> space telescope. NGC 6744 stands out as a prime example of the galaxies currently forming the majority of stars in the nearby universe, making it an ideal subject for study with the Euclid mission.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Euclid’s extensive field-of-view allows it to capture the entire galaxy, showcasing not only its large-scale spiral structure but also revealing intricate details on smaller scales across various wavelengths. These details include feather-like dust lanes, known as “spurs,” emerging from the spiral arms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-formation-in-ngc-6744">Star formation in NGC 6744</h2>



<p>Euclid's observations enable scientists to count individual stars within NGC 6744, trace the distribution of stars and dust throughout the galaxy, and map the dust associated with the gas that fuels the development of new stars. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star formation</a> is a key process in the growth of galaxies, making these studies crucial for understanding galaxy evolution.</p>



<p>Researchers are utilizing Euclid’s data to explore the relationship between dust, gas, and star formation; to map the distribution of different stellar populations and identify regions of active star formation; and to investigate the underlying physics of spiral galaxy structures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Spiral arms play a significant role in star formation by compressing gas, yet the precise mechanisms behind this process are still unclear. The presence of “spurs” along NGC 6744’s spiral arms offers valuable insights into the dynamics of star formation within these structures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-new-dwarf-galaxies-nbsp">Discovering new dwarf galaxies&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Additionally, Euclid's dataset will help scientists identify clusters of old stars (globular clusters) and discover new dwarf galaxies around NGC 6744. Remarkably, Euclid has already identified a new dwarf satellite galaxy of NGC 6744 - a surprising discovery given that the galaxy has been studied extensively.</p>



<p>With Euclid’s detailed observations, scientists are gaining a deeper understanding of the processes shaping galaxies, providing essential clues to the evolution and appearance of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universes-expansion-rate-hubble-tension-puzzles-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-ngc-6744">More about NGC 6744</h2>



<p>NGC 6744's disk is rich in star-forming regions and contains numerous young, bright blue stars. The galaxy's nucleus is slightly elongated and has a bar structure, which influences the motion of the stars and gas within it.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The spiral arms of NGC 6744 are well-defined and extend outward, wrapping around the central bar. Additionally, NGC 6744 has a smaller companion galaxy, NGC 6744A, which is interacting with it, adding to the complexity and interest of this distant system.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiral-galaxies">Spiral galaxies</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-mesmerizing-beauty-of-spiral-galaxies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral galaxies</a> are one of the most common types of galaxies in the universe, characterized by their distinct, spiral-shaped structure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The galaxies typically consist of a flat, rotating disk containing stars, gas, and dust, along with a central concentration of stars known as the bulge. This bulge is often surrounded by a halo of older stars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The spiral arms, which extend from the central bulge, are regions of active star formation and are rich in young, hot stars, giving them a bright, bluish appearance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These arms are also sites where interstellar gas and dust are concentrated, leading to the formation of new stars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Spiral galaxies are classified into different types based on the tightness of their spirals and the size of their central bulge, with classifications ranging from tightly wound arms in Sa galaxies to more loosely wound arms in Sc galaxies. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, our home galaxy, is a prime example of a spiral galaxy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-pavo">The constellation Pavo</h2>



<p>Pavo, which means "peacock" in Latin, is a constellation in the southern sky. It was named by the Dutch astronomer Petrus Plancius in the late 16th century, based on observations made during the Dutch explorations of the southern hemisphere. </p>



<p>Pavo is one of the 12 constellations created by Plancius from the records of explorers Pieter Dirkszoon Keyser and Frederick de Houtman. </p>



<p>The constellation is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a peacock with a long, curved tail. Pavo is not visible from most of the northern hemisphere, but it can be seen from the southern hemisphere, particularly during the winter months.</p>



<p>The constellation contains several interesting celestial objects, including the star Peacock, also known as Alpha Pavonis, which is the brightest star in the constellation. This star is a blue-white subgiant located about 179 light-years from Earth.</p>



<p>Image Credit: <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA&nbsp;</p>



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Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in the constellation Pavo

<p>Have you ever wondered if the adage "birds of a feather flock together" is actually true? A recent study confirms this idea, showing that a bold pair of parenting geese produce a bounty of offspring.</p>



<p>The research, which zeroes in on a group of captive greylag geese, was conducted by a team of bird behavior experts led by Flinders University.</p>



<p>The researchers Investigated the parental benefits of "made in heaven" matches between well-paired geese couples.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bold-personalities-and-parenting-success">Bold personalities and parenting success</h2>



<p>Study lead author Lauren Common is now based in the Konrad Lorenz Research Centre for Behavior and Cognition at the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a> in Austria.</p>



<p>"Like in humans, the personality of both parents and their similarity in personality traits can influence their success as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-care-linked-to-the-evolution-of-longer-lifespans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parents</a>," said Common.</p>



<p>"Successful pair bonds where partners were similar in their boldness, mainly by responding to risky situations in the same way, can have higher hatching success." </p>



<p>According to Common, this bold parenting style can lead to consistency and responsiveness, which can result in successful reproductive output and survival of young and fledgling success.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geese-parenting-and-behavioral-compatibility">Geese parenting and behavioral compatibility</h2>



<p>For their investigation, the researchers observed a flock of more than 100 habituated greylag geese over three peculiarly intense breeding seasons. They meticulously measured reproductive and fledgling success.</p>



<p>The team included Sonia Kleindorfer, a professor at the University of Vienna and founder of the BirdLab in the College of Science and Engineering at <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>.</p>



<p>Professor Kleindorfer emphasized the critical role both geese parents play - especially during incubation when thermal stability and protection from predators is crucial.</p>



<p>"In species with biparental care and monogamy, reproductive output and success may be influenced not only by the personality of each individual but also the behavioral compatibility of the pair," said Kleindorfer.</p>



<p>"This kind of pairing in greylag geese is linked to their well-developed cognitive capacity and&nbsp;social awareness&nbsp;and individuals consistently differ in personality traits such as boldness, aggressiveness, sociability and other behavioral traits."</p>



<p>Thus, the love story of greylag geese is more than just about affection - it's about survival too.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geese-parenting-traits">Geese parenting traits</h2>



<p>"Animal personality was once considered a figment of human imagination and, worse, anthropomorphism," said Professor Kleindorfer.</p>



<p>She noted that the study adds to a growing body of work showing that animals such as greylag geese have consistent individual differences in behavior, also called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parents-play-a-crucial-role-in-the-evolution-of-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personality</a>.</p>



<p>"But more than that, personality traits in animals can be linked to successful love matches and reproductive success. Therefore, these traits may be targets of natural and sexual selection," explained Professor Kleindorfer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-and-species-management">Conservation and species management</h2>



<p>Understanding the intricate dynamics of personality-driven pairing and parenting success in greylag geese provides valuable insights for conservation efforts and species management. </p>



<p>Conservationists can harness this knowledge to create environments that promote behavioral compatibility. </p>



<p>By ensuring that captive breeding programs focus on matching individuals with complementary personality traits, the reproductive success rate can be enhanced, ultimately contributing to the stability and growth of population numbers. </p>



<p>In turn, these practices may serve as a model for conserving other avian species facing similar ecological challenges.</p>



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



<p>While the current study sheds light on the relationship between personality traits and reproductive success in greylag geese, it opens up numerous avenues for future research beyond parenting. </p>



<p>Further exploration into the genetic basis of personality traits could reveal the heritability of behaviors that lead to successful pair bonding and parenting. </p>



<p>Additionally, expanding the research to include other species with biparental care systems would help determine the universality of these findings across avian species. </p>



<p>With increasing environmental pressures and habitat loss, it is crucial that we continue to deepen our understanding of the role personality plays in animal behavior, ensuring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-adversity-reduces-life-expectancy-of-most-mammals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effective strategies</a> for species preservation and biodiversity conservation.</p>



<p>The profound insights from this study break down the barrier between us and our feathery friends. The next time you spot a pair of birds, remember, there might be a deep love story and an inspiring tale of successful parenting hidden in their flight towards the horizon.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003347224002252?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Behaviour</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Bold personality traits improve parenting success in geese

Have you ever wondered if the adage "birds of a...

<p>With climate change and limited resources creating tough challenges, researchers are trying out different methods to improve agricultural productivity and crop yields. You might be surprised by one of the answers they've come up with: electric soil.</p>



<p>This technique involves applying electrical currents to the soil, which has been found to stimulate plant growth, enhance nutrient uptake, and improve overall crop health. </p>



<p>By tapping into the power of electricity in farming, scientists hope to develop more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-footprint-a-new-frontier-in-sustainable-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable practices</a> that can lead to better yields and greater food security for everyone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electricity-soil-tremendous-plant-growth">Electricity + soil = tremendous plant growth</h2>



<p>Leading this study was Eleni Stavrinidou, an esteemed associate professor at <a href="https://liu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Linköping University</a> in Sweden. </p>



<p>Together with her team, she discovered that barley seedlings grew up to 50% more in just 15 days -- all thanks to some electric jolts to the soil in which their roots were growing.</p>



<p>Stavrinidou emphasizes how desperately we need to evolve our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/organic-farming-practices-boost-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultivation strategies</a>. </p>



<p>She asks, "With the population explosion and climate change, can we keep up with the food demands of the planet with only the existing agricultural methods?" </p>



<p>The answer, she believes, lies in urban hydroponics, a form of controlled farming that doesn't rely on soil.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydroponics-and-urban-farming">Hydroponics and urban farming</h2>



<p>Before we dig into the electrifying soil revelation, let's get our hands dirty with hydroponics. Hydroponics is a revolutionary farming method that's been gaining momentum, particularly in urban landscapes where space is scarce.</p>



<p>In hydroponic systems, plants don't need soil to grow. Instead, they are nurtured in nutrient-rich water, with substrates providing the much-needed support.</p>



<p>But what's really eye-catching about hydroponics is its efficiency. </p>



<p>Hydroponic systems consume significantly less water than traditional farming because the water is reused, and each plant gets exactly what it needs -- not an ounce more, not an ounce less.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-soil-esoil-is-a-real-game-changer">Electric soil (eSoil) is a real game-changer</h2>



<p>Now let's talk about eSoil, the secret sauce in Stavrinidou's study. </p>



<p>The pivotal element that sets eSoil apart is its blend of cellulose (the material that constitutes plant cell walls) and a conductive polymer known as PEDOT. </p>



<p>The resulting concoction paves the way for the root stimulation that fosters unprecedented growth.</p>



<p>Not just that, eSoil is also a far greener alternative to the mineral wool substrates widely used in hydroponic setups today. </p>



<p>It's biodegradable, consumes less energy during production, and did I mention the growth-boosting electrical conductivity?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stunning-results">Stunning results</h2>



<p>The electric buzz didn't stop at the breakthrough. When Stavrinidou and her team put eSoil to the test, the results were, quite literally, shocking. </p>



<p>Barley seedlings on eSoil outgrew their non-electrified counterparts by 50% in a mere fortnight.</p>



<p>"In this way, we can get seedlings to grow faster with less resources. We don't yet know how it actually works, which biological mechanisms that are involved," Sarvrinidou explains. </p>



<p>"What we have found is that seedlings process nitrogen more effectively, but it's not clear yet how the&nbsp;<a href="https://phys.org/tags/electrical+stimulation/">electrical stimulation</a>&nbsp;impacts this process."</p>



<p>Looking ahead, Stavrinidou acknowledges that hydroponics won't entirely address global food security concerns. "But it can certainly be a lifeline, particularly in areas with limited arable land and harsh environmental conditions," she adds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-soil-and-the-future-of-farming">Electric soil and the future of farming</h2>



<p>Envision vertical farms housed in urban skyscrapers, producing fresh produce right in the heart of the city. Or hydroponic systems in desert regions, cultivating crops with minimal water. </p>



<p>And let's not forget about long-term space missions -- efficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sustainable-food-systems-are-gaining-momentum/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food production strategies</a>, such as eSoil, would indeed be invaluable.</p>



<p>With much still to uncover about how electrical stimulation impacts plant growth, the journey doesn't stop here. Could this technique work for other plant types? How are other nutrients influenced by electric stimulation? </p>



<p>As Stavrinidou said, this study is just the tip of the iceberg, and the pursuit of answers will undoubtedly "open the pathway for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smart-soil-can-absorb-water-from-the-air-and-feed-itself/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new research areas</a> to develop further hydroponic cultivation."</p>



<p>There's no question about it -- as we grapple with food production challenges on a global scale, innovative solutions like eSoil could be a shot in the arm for agriculture. </p>



<p>A future where robust plants grow faster using fewer resources, where fresh produce is accessible within bustling cities, could be on the horizon. And it all starts with a jolt of electric soil.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2304135120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a></em>.</p>



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'Electric soil' boosts crop production by 50% in just 15 days

With climate change and limited resources creating tough challenges, researchers...

An,Artist's,Illustration,Of,A,Black,Hole,In,Interstellar,Space

<p>Astronomers recently discovered the biggest pair of black hole jets ever observed and named this system Porphyrion. Imagine something so massive that it lines up 140 Milky Way galaxies back to back. Then multiply that thought by two. It's almost too much for our minds to fathom, but that's exactly what they found.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-black-hole-jet-system-porphyrion">Meet black hole jet system Porphyrion</h2>



<p>Martijn Oei is a <a href="https://www.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caltech</a> postdoctoral scholar with a flair for digging into the mysteries of the universe. His recent work published in a new <em>Nature</em> paper has everyone talking.</p>



<p>Oei and his team discovered this enormous pair of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/awakening-of-a-black-hole-witnessed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> jets named Porphyrion. Derived from Greek mythology, Porphyrion is a fitting moniker for a structure with such colossal proportions.</p>



<p>This jet megastructure not only spans 23 million light-years in total length, but it also dates back to when our universe was just 6.3 billion years old. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/black-hole-jet_23-million-light-years_Porphyrion_credit-Caltech-Oei_Martijn_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/black-hole-jet_23-million-light-years_Porphyrion_credit-Caltech-Oei_Martijn_1s.webp" alt="An artist's illustration of the longest black hole jet system ever observed. Nicknamed Porphyrion after a mythological Greek giant, these jets span roughly 7 megaparsecs, or 23 million light-years. That is equivalent to lining up 140 Milky Way galaxies back-to-back. Porphyrion dates back to a time when our universe was less than half its present age. Credit: Caltech" class="wp-image-1945007"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>An artist's illustration of the longest black hole jet system ever observed. Nicknamed Porphyrion after a mythological Greek giant, these jets span roughly 7 megaparsecs, or 23 million light-years. That is equivalent to lining up 140 Milky Way galaxies back-to-back. Porphyrion dates back to a time when our universe was less than half its present age. Credit: Caltech</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>That's less than half its present age of 13.8 billion years. To put that into perspective, it's like the universe was still in its adolescence.</p>



<p>These ferocious outflows of energy, with a total power output equivalent to trillions of suns, emanate from a supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/directly-detecting-dark-matter-primordial-black-holes-simple-as-monitoring-mars-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> at the heart of a distant galaxy. </p>



<p>Before Porphyrion, the record-holder for the largest jet system was Alcyoneus, another giant named after a figure in Greek mythology. </p>



<p>Alcyoneus, discovered in 2022 by the same team, measures about the equivalent of 100 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Ways</a>. Comparatively, the Centaurus A jets, the closest major jet system to Earth, only spans 10 Milky Ways.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaking-up-the-neighborhood">Shaking up the neighborhood</h2>



<p>What makes Porphyrion's discovery more groundbreaking is the implications it holds for our understanding of galaxy formation. </p>



<p>Co-author George Djorgovski, professor of astronomy and data science at <a href="https://www.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Caltech</a>, provided some insights on this.</p>



<p>"Astronomers believe that galaxies and their central black holes co-evolve, and one key aspect of this is that jets can spread huge amounts of energy that affect the growth of their host galaxies and other galaxies near them,” he says. "This discovery shows that their effects can extend much farther out than we thought."</p>



<p>But Porphyrion's scale reveals that the effects of these jets may extend far beyond our previous understanding.</p>



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="D4GGVHtxYz-3864208-12187" type="single"]</div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-the-cosmos-and-black-hole-jets">Scanning the cosmos and black hole jets</h2>



<p>The discovery of Porphyrion is part of a larger sky survey, which unveiled a staggering number of similar structures -- over 10,000.</p>



<p>This massive population of gargantuan <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-captured-redirecting-jets-beams-like-death-star-weapon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jets</a> was found using Europe's <a href="https://www.astron.nl/telescopes/lofar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LOFAR</a> (LOw Frequency ARray) radio telescope.</p>



<p>"Giant jets were known before we started the campaign, but we had no idea that there would turn out to be so many," says Martin Hardcastle, second author of the study and a professor of astrophysics at the <a href="https://www.herts.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hertfordshire</a> in England. </p>



<p>"Usually when we get a new observational capability, such as LOFAR's combination of wide field of view and very high sensitivity to extended structures, we find something new, but it was still very exciting to see so many of these objects emerging."</p>



<p>The origins of Porphyrion took the team across continents and observatories. They used the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) in India and supplementary data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona. </p>



<p>The observations pointed the team to a hefty galaxy, about 10 times more massive than our Milky Way, as the birthplace of Porphyrion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-jet-system-porphyrion-s-size">Black hole jet system Porphyrion's size</h2>



<p>Porphyrion resides a mind-boggling 7.5 billion light-years from Earth. Its far-off residency and its emergence from a radiative-mode black hole suggest that it may not be a lone titan, but the harbinger of countless colossal jets yet to be discovered. </p>



<p>Oei suggests as much, saying, "We may be looking at the tip of the iceberg."</p>



<p>There are still many unanswered questions surrounding these giant black hole jet systems. How do they extend so far and get so big without destabilizing? </p>



<p>"Martijn's work has shown us that there isn't anything particularly special about the environments of these giant sources that causes them to reach those large sizes," says Hardcastle, who is an expert in the physics of black hole jets. </p>



<p>"My interpretation is that we need an unusually long-lived and stable accretion event around the central, supermassive black hole to allow it to be active for so long -- about a billion years -- and to ensure that the jets keep pointing in the same direction over all of that time. What we're learning from the large number of giants is that this must be a relatively common occurrence," Hardcastle concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surrounding-influence-and-magnetism">Surrounding influence and magnetism</h2>



<p>How do they influence their surroundings? And perhaps most intriguingly, have these giant jets spread magnetism throughout the cosmos?</p>



<p>"We know magnetism pervades the cosmic web, then makes its way into galaxies and stars, and eventually to planets, but the question is: Where does it start?" Oei rightly says.</p>



<p>This research is the exciting beginning of a new chapter in our understanding of the universe. With the discovery of Porphyrion, we're reminded that we still have a lot to uncover about the mysteries of the cosmos. Even a sky full of stars is just the beginning.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07879-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



<p>Video Credit: Caltech </p>



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Largest black hole jets ever seen are 23 million light years long

Astronomers recently discovered the biggest pair of black hole jets...


<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592ddcd45091f01e67825ce1/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>Chris Draft, former NFL player</p>


EPA: Asthma Can Be Tackled