<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It is a tributary of the Congo River, one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warmer-rivers-keep-antimicrobial-resistant-genes-at-bay/">rivers</a> in the world by discharge and depth. </p>



<p>The Ruki River, previously known as the Busira, merges with the Momboyo River near the town of Basankusu to become the Lulonga River, which eventually flows into the Congo River at the town of Lisala.</p>



<p>"If the appearance of the muddy Amazon River evokes a coffee cut with cream, the Ruki River, coursing gently through the Congo Basin, is like a dark tea," said NASA.</p>



<p>"On its slow path through mostly untouched lowland rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the water leaches organic material from vegetation, prompting some researchers to think it is one of the darkest blackwater rivers on Earth. The dissolved material in this distinctive water, scientists are finding, offers clues into the carbon cycle of tropical forests."</p>



<p>In a recent study, researchers measured the chemical composition and flow of the Ruki for the first time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The study reported that, as the water color suggests, the Ruki is rich in dissolved organic carbon compounds. It contains four times as much organic carbon as the Congo River and 1.5 times as much as the Rio Negro, the world’s largest blackwater river and a major tributary of the Amazon," said NASA.</p>



<p>Due to this heavy carbon load, the researchers concluded that “tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought.”</p>



<p>The region around the Ruki River is rich in biodiversity, hosting various species of flora and fauna. It is part of the Congo Basin, the second-largest tropical rainforest area in the world, which is a critical habitat for endangered species and a significant carbon sink.</p>



<p>The river is vital for the livelihoods of local communities. Fishing is a crucial activity, with many people depending on it for sustenance and income. The river also supports agriculture along its banks, where communities grow crops.</p>



<p>In many parts of the DRC, rivers like the Ruki are crucial transportation corridors due to the challenging and often nonexistent road infrastructure. The river enables the movement of people and goods, facilitating trade and access to markets, health care, and education.</p>



<p>The region faces several challenges, including deforestation, overfishing, and environmental degradation, which threaten its ecological balance and the livelihoods of people who depend on it. Efforts to manage and conserve the river's resources are vital for sustainable development.</p>



<p>Understanding and protecting the Ruki River and its surroundings are crucial for the DRC's environmental sustainability, economic development, and the well-being of its communities.</p>



<p>The image was captured by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.</p>



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



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The Ruki River in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features dust streaming from Lago Colhué Huapi, a shallow endorheic lake located in the Chubut Province in southern Argentina.</p>



<p>"Strong northwesterly winds often race down the eastern side of the Andes Mountains and whip across the central Patagonian Desert. In the process, they sometimes lift dust from Argentina’s drying Lago Colhué Huapi, fueling intense dust storms," said NASA.</p>



<p>"Lago Colhué Huapi is a particularly rich source of dust because the shallow lake regularly grows and shrinks with variations in the flow of the Senguer River and the pace of evaporation. When lake water levels are low, as they were when MODIS captured this image, fine-grained, lightweight particles are easily transported by the wind."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dust-activity-from-lago-colhue-huapi">Dust activity from Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dust-storms-in-the-gulf-of-alaska-help-shape-the-global-climate/">Dust storms</a> in this region are most common during the summer months from December to March. There are 15 to 30 dust storms in a typical year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Dust storms are frequent and persistent enough in this area that they have exposed an open-air archaeological site along the lake’s edge," said NASA.</p>



<p>"The Puesto Roberts 1 site, located in an old floodplain on the southeast side of Lago Colhué Huapi, was first identified in 2019 when archaeologists noticed that winds had exposed a five-centimeter layer of sandy loam soil littered with stone tools and the bones of a wild species of llama called guanaco."</p>



<p>"Archaeologists identified 427 artifacts at the site - including stone cutting blades, milling tools, scrapers, and egg-shaped bola stones used for hunting - spread across 15 square meters, according to a 2022 study led by Heidi Hammond, an archaeologist at the National University of the Patagonia San Juan Bosco."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-lago-colhue-huapi">More about Lago Colhué Huapi</h2>



<p>This lake is an interesting geographical feature primarily because it acts as a seasonal sink for the Senguerr River, which in turn gathers waters from various smaller streams in the region. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size">Size</h3>



<p>Due to its shallow nature, the size of Lago Colhué Huapi can vary significantly with the seasons and the amount of water it receives from its sources. During times of drought or reduced rainfall, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-pushing-lakes-to-their-boiling-point/">lake</a> can shrink considerably, affecting the local ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.</p>



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



<p>The lake's surroundings are characterized by a semi-arid climate, which influences the type of vegetation and animal life that can thrive in the area. Despite the harsh conditions, the region around Lago Colhué Huapi supports a variety of bird species, making it a site of interest for birdwatchers and naturalists.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges">Environmental challenges </h3>



<p>In recent years, Lago Colhué Huapi has faced environmental challenges, including the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alarming-study-most-of-the-worlds-largest-lakes-are-quickly-losing-water/">climate change</a>, which has led to lower water levels and increased salinity. These changes pose threats to the lake's ecological balance and the species that inhabit its waters and shores. The situation at Lago Colhué Huapi serves as a reminder of the broader environmental issues facing water bodies in arid and semi-arid regions around the world.</p>



<p>The image was captured on March 29, 2024 by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Dust streams from Lago Colhué Huapi in Argentina 

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features thick haze over Thailand during the fire season. The photograph was captured by the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP satellite on March 16, 2024.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waves-of-smoke-and-haze">Waves of smoke and haze</h2>



<p>"Each year in January and February, satellites begin to detect waves of smoke and fire in Southeast Asia, particularly in highland forests in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Fire activity continues to increase through March and April, reaches a peak during the height of the dry season, and then fades in May with the start of the rainy season," noted NASA.</p>



<p>"Individual fires are usually small and short-lived. But they are often so numerous that smoke, along with air pollution from rural and urban areas, mixes to produce thick layers of haze that blanket the landscape." </p>



<p>"Such hazes contain mixtures of small airborne particles called aerosols and gaseous pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone that degrade air quality and have harmful health effects."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-in-thailand-nbsp">Haze in Thailand&nbsp;</h2>



<p>An international field campaign - the Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality (ASIA-AQ) - was recently launched to investigate the haze in Thailand.</p>



<p>"During the last two weeks of March 2024, NASA’s DC-8 and Gulfstream III aircraft flew several flights over Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and rural areas surrounding the cities to sample air quality with several sensors. At the same time, satellites observed the haze from above," said NASA.</p>



<p>James Crawford, ASIA-AQ’s principal investigator, said the team is collaborating closely with national and local government entities in Thailand.</p>



<p>“The goal is to take as many simultaneous measurements of pollutants as possible from the ground, air, and space,” said Crawford. The team will use the data to gain a better understanding of how the haze forms, evolves chemically over time, and moves throughout the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-haze-and-public-health-in-thailand">Haze and public health in Thailand </h2>



<p>According to media reports, nearly 200,000 people have been hospitalized this year due to air quality in the region, with over 1.3 million people falling ill since January.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-root-causes">Root causes</h3>



<p>The root causes of the haze include agricultural burning, particularly of corn fields, as part of slash-and-burn practices to prepare land for the next planting cycle. This is exacerbated by the dry season when there's little rain to wash the pollutants away. </p>



<p>The situation is worsened by industrial emissions and vehicle fumes, particularly in urban areas like Bangkok​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-solutions-are-needed">Sustainable solutions are needed</h3>



<p>Efforts to address the crisis have been complex, involving local and transboundary issues. Much of the agricultural burning occurs not only within Thailand but also in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos, contributing to the transboundary nature of the haze. </p>



<p>Activists and local communities have called for sustainable solutions that do not exacerbate the poverty of smallholder farmers, emphasizing the need for affordable and realistic alternatives to burning​.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigation-measures-nbsp">Mitigation measures&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Thai government has implemented a no-burning rule until the end of April to combat wildfires and haze, but enforcement and effectiveness remain challenges​​. </p>



<p>Some measures taken to mitigate the immediate effects of pollution in urban areas include spraying water and seeding clouds to encourage rain, although these have had limited success​​.</p>



<p>This ongoing environmental crisis has sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are increasingly using public interest litigation to hold companies and the government accountable for environmental commitments. </p>



<p>With recent political changes, there is hope that the new administration will take more decisive action against the haze, possibly through more stringent regulations and international cooperation​​.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-haze">Health impacts of haze</h2>



<p>Haze poses several health hazards for those exposed to it, particularly when it contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Here are some of the main health risks associated with exposure to haze:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-respiratory-problems">Respiratory problems</h3>



<p>Haze can aggravate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The fine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">particles</a> can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and reducing lung function.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cardiovascular-issues-and-haze">Cardiovascular issues and haze</h3>



<p>Exposure to fine particulate matter can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Particles can affect blood vessel function and promote the formation of blood clots.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eye-irritation">Eye irritation</h3>



<p>Haze can cause eye irritation, leading to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or exacerbated symptoms in people with existing eye conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-problems">Skin problems</h3>



<p>For some people, exposure to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/">polluted air</a> can cause skin irritation or exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-immune-function">Reduced immune function</h3>



<p>There is evidence to suggest that prolonged exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-mental-health">Impact on mental health</h3>



<p>There are growing concerns about the impact of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-linked-to-multiple-chronic-health-conditions/">mental health</a>, with studies suggesting a link between exposure to polluted air and an increased risk of depression and anxiety.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnant-women-and-children">Pregnant women and children</h3>



<p>Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of haze. There may be increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in babies, and children may experience delayed development and reduced lung function.</p>



<p>The health impacts of haze can be mitigated by staying indoors on days when air quality is particularly poor, using air purifiers, wearing masks designed to filter out fine particles, and following local health advisories.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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

Haze pollution is an environmental crisis in Thailand

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features the delta of the Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain, captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-river">Ebro River</h2>



<p>“Stretching across 910 km of northern Spain, the Ebro River is the second-longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. In the image, it can be seen as a green line winding its way through the peninsula before flowing into the Mediterranean, shaping the Ebro Delta,” noted ESA.</p>



<p>“The Ebro River discharges more water into the sea than any other river in Spain. As suspended sediment flows from the river’s mouth, it tints the coastal waters with a turquoise hue.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ebro-delta">Ebro Delta</h2>



<p>The Ebro Delta is one of the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wetland-methane-emissions-have-surged-at-high-latitudes/">wetland areas</a> in the western Mediterranean region. The river's basin is the largest in Spain, covering about 85,000 square kilometers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-significance-nbsp">Historical significance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Historically, the Ebro River has been significant in numerous battles, including the famous Battle of the Ebro during the Spanish Civil War, which was one of the war's longest and deadliest conflicts.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-significance-nbsp">Economic significance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Economically, the Ebro plays a crucial role in agriculture, particularly in regions like La Rioja and Navarre, which are known for their vineyards. Additionally, the river supports various industries and hydroelectric power generation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-significance">Ecological significance</h2>



<p>The Ebro Delta is ecologically rich, providing habitat for diverse bird species. It is also a vital area for rice cultivation in Spain.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-reserve">Nature reserve</h3>



<p>“Most of the delta comprises the Ebro Delta Nature Reserve. With its protected wetlands, beaches, marshes, salt pans and estuaries, this reserve provides a natural habitat for numerous migratory birds and waterfowl,” said ESA.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-challenges-nbsp">Environmental challenges&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The river and its delta face environmental challenges such as pollution, water extraction for irrigation, and the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-may-have-altered-river-flow-worldwide/">climate change</a>, which threaten its ecosystem and the sustainability of its water resources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-northeast-coast-of-spain">The northeast coast of Spain</h2>



<p>The northeast coast of Spain is a vibrant and diverse region, characterized by its rich history, unique culture, and stunning landscapes. </p>



<p>It includes the autonomous communities of Catalonia, which features the dynamic city of Barcelona, and part of the Valencian Community. This area is also part of what is known as the Costa Brava, which stretches from the town of Blanes up to the French border.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geography">Geography</h3>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activity-impacts-97-percent-of-the-worlds-coastline/">coastline</a> is renowned for its rugged beauty, with rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and small beaches. The interior regions feature mountains such as the Pyrenees, which offer skiing in winter and hiking in the summer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-heritage">Cultural heritage</h3>



<p>The area has a strong cultural identity, particularly in Catalonia, where there is a significant movement for independence. The Catalan language is widely spoken alongside Spanish. The region is also known for its festivals, architecture (notably the works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona), and traditional dances like the Sardana.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cuisine">Cuisine</h3>



<p>The cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood from the Mediterranean, traditional Catalan dishes like "pa amb tomàquet" (bread with tomato), and rice dishes such as paella in the Valencian region. The area is also famous for its wines, including the sparkling wine Cava.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tourism">Tourism</h3>



<p>The northeast coast attracts millions of tourists each year due to its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities. Barcelona, in particular, is a major tourist destination with attractions like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the bustling La Rambla.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economy">Economy</h3>



<p>The economy of the northeast coast is one of the most dynamic in Spain, with Barcelona serving as a major hub for trade, education, entertainment, and technology.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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The Ebro River on the northeast coast of Spain

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> features smoke streaming from a fire near the border of Oaxaca and Chiapas in southern Mexico.</p>



<p>"As Mexico entered peak fire season in March 2024, dry and warm conditions helped fuel the flames of more than 100 active blazes across the country," said NASA.</p>



<p>"According to Mexico’s National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), there were 120 actively burning fires across Mexico on March 27. Preliminary data indicated that fires that day affected more than 7,000 hectares (27 square miles) across 19 of Mexico’s 31 states."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-season-in-mexico-nbsp">Fire season in Mexico&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Fire season in Mexico is a period marked by a heightened risk of wildfires, primarily occurring from January through June, with the peak usually observed between March and May. This timing is largely due to the country's climatic patterns, where the end of the dry season and the beginning of the warmer spring months create conditions ripe for fires.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These conditions include dry vegetation, which serves as ample fuel for wildfires, and the onset of warmer temperatures, which can exacerbate the risk of fires starting and spreading.</p>



<p>Mexico's varied topography and climatic zones mean that fire risk and behavior can differ significantly across the country. However, areas with extensive forest cover, such as the pine-oak forests in the northern and central regions, are particularly vulnerable during the fire season.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Human activities, including agricultural practices such as the clearing of land through burning (known as "slash and burn"), contribute significantly to the ignition of these wildfires. Additionally, accidental fires caused by campfires, cigarettes, or even deliberate arson add to the annual fire count.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intense-fire-seasons-across-the-globe-nbsp">Intense fire seasons across the globe&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The phenomenon of more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-wildfire-years-are-just-getting-started/">intense fire seasons</a> across the globe is a complex and multifaceted issue that intertwines with climate change, land management practices, and human activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over the past decades, several regions around the world have experienced unprecedented wildfires in both frequency and intensity. These fires have resulted in devastating impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/">air quality</a>, and human settlements.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-north-america-nbsp">North America&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, fire seasons have become significantly longer and more destructive.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The combination of prolonged droughts, higher temperatures, and an increase in the amount of dead and dry vegetation has turned vast areas into tinderboxes, ready to ignite with a single spark.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, the wildfires in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-caused-the-devastating-2020-fire-season-in-california/">California</a> have set records for their sheer size and the amount of destruction they've caused, burning millions of acres and destroying thousands of homes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-australia-nbsp">Australia&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Australia's fire season during 2019-2020, known as the Black Summer, was one of the most severe in the country's history. A prolonged drought and extreme heatwaves contributed to widespread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-bushfires-triggered-rare-multi-year-la-nina/">bushfires</a> that burned through millions of hectares, destroyed over 3,000 homes, and led to the loss of at least 33 lives.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The environmental impact was catastrophic, with significant losses to wildlife and biodiversity, including an estimated billion animals killed.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amazon-rainforest-nbsp">Amazon rainforest&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In the Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the Earth's lungs, there has been an alarming increase in fires. These are largely attributed to deforestation and agricultural practices.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The fires not only contribute to the global carbon emissions but also result in the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of vital ecosystems that are crucial for global climate regulation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europe-nbsp">Europe&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Europe has not been spared either, with countries like Greece, Portugal, and Spain experiencing deadly wildfires that have been linked to heatwaves and changing precipitation patterns. The Mediterranean region, in particular, is becoming more susceptible to wildfires as temperatures rise and summers become drier.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-siberia-fires">Siberia fires</h3>



<p>Russia's Siberia has also seen an increase in fire activity, with massive wildfires engulfing vast areas of forest. The smoke from these fires has reached as far as the United States and Canada, highlighting the global impact of such events. These fires not only release significant amounts of carbon dioxide but also thaw permafrost, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas.</p>



<p>The increasing intensity and frequency of fire seasons around the world underscore the urgent need for global action on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-impacts-are-evolving-due-to-climate-change-but-in-what-ways/">climate change</a> and more sustainable land management practices. As temperatures continue to rise and weather patterns become more extreme, the challenge of managing wildfires and mitigating their impacts becomes increasingly daunting.</p>



<p>The image was captured on March 27, 2024 by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory</p>



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Intense fire season in Mexico is part of a worldwide trend

Artistic Composition of DESI Year-One Data Slice Above the Nicho

<p>In an extraordinary feat of cosmic exploration, astronomers are embarking on a five-year journey to create the most extensive 3D map of the cosmos ever conceived. The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (<a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/projects/desi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DESI</a>) is at the forefront of this endeavor, and its initial findings are already reshaping our understanding of the universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-universe-s-expansion-with-dark-energy">Measuring the universe's expansion with dark energy</h2>



<p>Using spectra from nearby galaxies and distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quasar-j0529-4351-brightest-object-ever-seen-eats-one-star-per-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quasars</a>, astronomers from the DESI collaboration have measured the expansion history of the universe with unparalleled precision.</p>



<p>By analyzing the survey's first-year data, which contains the largest extragalactic spectroscopic sample ever collected, researchers have achieved a precision better than 1% over the last 11 billion years.</p>



<p>"We're incredibly proud of the data, which have produced world-leading cosmology results," said Michael Levi, DESI director and LBNL scientist. </p>



<p>"So far we're seeing basic agreement with our best model of the Universe, but we're also seeing some potentially interesting differences that could indicate dark energy is evolving with time," Levi continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-the-cosmos-at-an-unprecedented-rate">Mapping the cosmos at an unprecedented rate</h2>



<p>DESI's ability to collect light from millions of galaxies across more than a third of the entire sky is truly remarkable. </p>



<p>By breaking down the light from each galaxy into its spectrum of colors, DESI can determine how much the light has been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-claims-our-universe-is-27-billion-years-old-double-the-current-age-estimate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">redshifted</a>, or stretched to a longer wavelength, by the expansion of the Universe during its billions of years of travel before reaching Earth.</p>



<p>Equipped with 5000 tiny robotic 'eyes,' DESI can perform this measurement at an unprecedented rate. In its first year alone, DESI surpassed all previous surveys of its kind in terms of quantity and quality, bringing new insight to one of the biggest mysteries in physics: dark energy.</p>



<p>"The DESI instrument has transformed the <a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/programs/kitt-peak-national-observatory/nicholas-mayall-4m-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayall Telescope</a> into the world's premier cosmic cartography machine," says Pat McCarthy, Director of NOIRLab. </p>



<p>"The DESI team has set a new standard for studies of large-scale structure in the Universe. These first-year data are only the beginning of DESI's quest to unravel the expansion history of the Universe and they hint at the extraordinary science to come," McCarthy concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baryon-acoustic-oscillations-the-cosmic-ruler">Baryon Acoustic Oscillations: The cosmic ruler</h2>



<p>DESI's first-year data have allowed astronomers to measure the expansion rate of the universe out to 11 billion years in the past, when the universe was only a quarter of its current age. </p>



<p>They accomplished this feat by using a feature of the large-scale structure of the universe called Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO).</p>



<p>BAO are the leftover imprint of pressure waves that permeated the early Universe when it was nothing but a hot, dense soup of subatomic particles. </p>



<p>As the universe expanded and cooled, the waves stagnated, freezing the ripples in place and seeding future galaxies in the dense areas.</p>



<p>With DESI's unique ability to map millions of objects both near and far, the BAO pattern can be used as a cosmic ruler. </p>



<p>By mapping nearby galaxies and distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quasars</a>, astronomers can measure the spread of the ripples across several periods of cosmic history to see how dark energy has stretched the scale over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desi-s-quest-continues-on-its-5-year-odyssey">DESI's quest continues on its 5-year odyssey</h2>



<p>While the expansion history of the universe may be more complex than previously imagined, confirmation of this must await the completion of the DESI project. </p>



<p>By the end of its five-year survey, DESI plans to map over 3 million quasars and 37 million galaxies. As more data are released, astronomers will further improve their results.</p>



<p>"This project is addressing some of the biggest questions in astronomy, like the nature of the mysterious dark energy that drives the expansion of the Universe," says Chris Davis, NSF program director for NOIRLab. "The exceptional and continuing results yielded by the NSF Mayall telescope with DOE DESI will undoubtedly drive cosmology research for many years to come."</p>



<p>"We are delighted to see cosmology results from DESI's first year of operations," said Gina Rameika, associate director for High Energy Physics at the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department of Energy</a>. "DESI continues to amaze us with its stellar performance and how it is shaping our understanding of dark energy in the Universe."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-energy-and-the-expansion-of-the-universe">Dark energy and the expansion of the universe</h2>



<p>A main component of the DESI project, dark energy, a perplexing and invisible force, permeates the universe and plays a crucial role in its accelerating expansion. </p>



<p>Scientists first discovered evidence for dark energy in the late 1990s when they observed that distant supernovae were dimmer than expected, suggesting that the universe's expansion was speeding up rather than slowing down.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nature of dark energy</h3>



<p>Despite its significant influence on the universe's evolution, the nature of dark energy remains one of the greatest enigmas in modern cosmology. Researchers have proposed several theories to explain its existence, including:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>The cosmological constant</strong>: This theory suggests that dark energy is an inherent property of space itself, with a constant density throughout the universe.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><strong>Scalar fields</strong>: Some scientists propose that dark energy arises from scalar fields, such as quintessence, which can vary in space and time.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><strong>Modified gravity</strong>: This theory posits that dark energy is not a separate entity but rather a manifestation of modifications to Einstein's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory of general relativity</a> on cosmic scales.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dark energy's impact on the universe</h3>



<p>Dark energy's presence has a profound impact on the universe's evolution and ultimate fate. As dark energy continues to drive the universe's accelerating expansion, it counteracts the attractive force of gravity. This has several consequences:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Galaxy clusters</strong>: Dark energy's repulsive force makes it more difficult for galaxy clusters to form and grow over time.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><strong>The Universe's fate</strong>: If dark energy continues to dominate, the universe may eventually experience a "Big Rip," where galaxies, stars, and even atoms are torn apart by the ever-increasing expansion.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><strong>The observable Universe</strong>: As the universe expands faster, more distant objects will move beyond our cosmic horizon, limiting the observable universe from our perspective.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-desi-dark-energy-and-the-future-of-cosmology">DESI, dark energy, and the future of cosmology</h2>



<p>In summary, the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) has embarked on an awe-inspiring journey to unravel the mysteries of the universe. </p>



<p>With its unparalleled precision, innovative technology, and the tireless efforts of an international collaboration, DESI is reshaping our understanding of dark energy and the cosmos as a whole. </p>



<p>As the survey progresses, astronomers eagerly anticipate the stunning discoveries that will emerge from DESI's ever-expanding 3D map of the Universe. </p>



<p>This monumental endeavor showcases the power of human curiosity and scientific advancement while promising to redefine our place in the grand cosmic tapestry for generations to come.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)00391-9?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982224003919%3Fshowall%3Dtrue">Current Biology</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Expansion rate of the universe measured out to 11 billion years ago using dark energy

In an extraordinary feat of cosmic exploration, astronomers are embarking...

<p>Imagine a large antelope, not the usual dusty brown, but shimmering with a bluish-gray coat. Sleek, swift, and mysterious – that was the blue antelope. </p>



<p>Sadly, this beautiful animal hasn't roamed the grasslands of South Africa in over 200 years. But why? That's the puzzle scientists have been determined to solve.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-antelope-extinction">Blue antelope extinction</h2>



<p>Picture this: It's the late 1700s. European colonists are venturing into southern Africa, coming across the magnificent blue antelope. </p>



<p>Within a mere few decades, this unique species vanishes -- extinct, wiped off the face of the Earth just 34 years after it was first scientifically described.</p>



<p>Doesn't that seem incredibly fast? You might wonder, how can an entire species disappear so quickly? The rapid decline of the blue antelope serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance within ecosystems and the profound impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-addresses-the-global-need-for-human-wildlife-coexistence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human activities</a> can have on wildlife.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-in-ancient-dna">Clues in ancient DNA</h2>



<p>Fast forward to today, and scientists have a powerful tool: DNA. A team of researchers, led by Prof. Dr. Michael Hofreiter from the <a href="https://www.uni-potsdam.de/en/university-of-potsdam" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Potsdam</a>, carefully extracted DNA from a museum specimen of a blue antelope. This wasn't just any DNA -- they got a super detailed look at its genetic blueprint.</p>



<p>Now, when species have small populations for a long time, their DNA starts to show signs of inbreeding and harmful mutations build up. </p>



<p>Think of it like a family tree that keeps getting more tangled over generations. This can make them extra vulnerable to extinction.</p>



<p>But, here's the twist: "However, the blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-hirola-day-celebrating-a-rare-and-endangered-antelope-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antelope</a> had a small population size for many millennia before it became extinct around 1800," explains Dr Hofreiter. Surprisingly, its DNA didn't show these classic danger signs. </p>



<p>"The fact that no inbreeding and only a few detrimental mutations were detected indicates that the species was adapted to long-term low population size," adds Elisabeth Hempel, who analyzed the DNA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-what-did-kill-off-the-blue-antelope">So, what <em>did</em> kill off the blue antelope?</h2>



<p>Big populations of animals like antelopes usually shrink and grow with the ice ages. When the planet gets colder, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grasslands-play-a-major-role-in-mitigating-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grasslands</a> dwindle, and so do the herds. </p>



<p>But, the blue antelope's DNA shows they sailed through those icy times just fine. Its numbers stayed pretty steady, so climate change wasn't the culprit.</p>



<p>"This result suggests that current models of long-term ecosystem dynamics in the region may need to be refined," the researchers concluded. In other words, we might need to rethink how we understand African wildlife history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-of-blue-antelope">Adaptation of blue antelope</h2>



<p>The blue antelope had naturally existed in small populations for a very long time. This means they were remarkably well-adapted to survive with limited numbers. </p>



<p>Additionally, their population size remaining steady through ice ages shows their ability to handle harsh environmental changes.</p>



<p>While the blue antelope could handle natural challenges, the arrival of European colonizers brought a whole new level of disruption. This happened incredibly quickly on an evolutionary timescale, likely overwhelming the species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-factors-of-human-impact">The factors of human impact</h2>



<p>Colonizers building towns and farms would have fragmented and destroyed the blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/case-study-how-african-antelopes-are-responding-to-rising-temperatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antelope's</a> habitat. This shrinks their range and makes them even more vulnerable as a small population.</p>



<p>Even if not hunted to extinction directly, antelopes would have been targeted as food sources by settlers, significantly reducing their numbers.</p>



<p>European land use practices, like agriculture and grazing, would have drastically changed the African grasslands. This could have wiped out food sources for the blue antelope or altered the landscape in ways they couldn't adapt to.</p>



<p>Therefore, these rapid, human-made changes likely acted together as a devastating blow the blue antelope couldn't recover from. </p>



<p>Their long history of resilience against natural pressures was tragically no match for the swift disruption of colonization.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, the blue antelope, known scientifically as <em>Hippotragus leucophaeus</em>, stood out from its relatives with its distinctive bluish-gray pelt, which earned it its name. Its iconic curved horns and majestic stature made it a truly magnificent sight in the southern African landscapes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Physically, the blue antelope was robust and well-built, comparable in size to other members of the Hippotragus genus. It typically stood at about 120 to 150 cm (47 to 59 inches) at the shoulder, making it a medium-sized <a href="https://www.earth.com/endangered-species/panthalops-hodgsonii/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antelope</a>. The body was muscular and compact, designed for endurance rather than speed.</p>



<p>One of its most distinctive features was its horns. Both males and females possessed these strong, ringed horns, which were slightly curved backwards. </p>



<p>The horns were not only a defense mechanism but also played a role in the animal’s social interactions and mating rituals.</p>



<p>The blue antelope's eyes and face were marked with subtle white patches, contrasting with the darker tones of its body, adding to its striking appearance. Its legs were strong and ended in cloven hooves, adapted for navigating the rough terrains of its habitat in southern Africa.</p>



<p>Overall, the blue antelope was a beautiful and formidable species, evolved to thrive in its specific ecological niche before its unfortunate extinction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Habitat and lifestyle</h3>



<p>Native to the grasslands and lightly wooded areas of southern Africa, particularly modern-day South Africa, the blue antelope adapted well to its environment. It thrived in open landscapes, grazing on the plentiful grasses and herbs. </p>



<p>Despite these seemingly ideal conditions, the blue antelope never existed in large numbers, maintaining a small population footprint throughout its history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-antelope-legacy">Blue antelope legacy</h2>



<p>While the loss of the blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/endangered-species/alcelaphus-buselaphus-tora/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antelope</a> is tragic, its story isn't over. Scientists even managed to pinpoint the genes that likely gave it that incredible blue-gray coat.</p>



<p>"As part of Colossal's ongoing focus on ancient DNA, genotype to phenotype relationships, and ecosystem restoration, we were honored to collaborate on the groundbreaking work of Professor Hofreiter and his team," said Ben Lamm, co-founder and CEO of Colossal Bioscience. </p>



<p>"The research objectives for the project allowed our teams to work together applying some of the latest Colossal ancient DNA and comparative genomic algorithms to learn what truly made the blue antelope the unique species it was."</p>



<p>The extinction of the blue antelope shows us the fragility of nature and the unintended impact humans can have. It's a reminder that even species tough enough to outlast ice ages can be vulnerable to our actions.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)00391-9?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982224003919%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em>.</p>



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



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Blue antelope extinction was caused by European colonization

Imagine a large antelope, not the usual dusty brown, but...

<p>Every day, microplastics are making their way into our bodies through water, food, and even the air we breathe. Researchers led by the <a href="https://www.unm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of New Mexico</a> (UNM) has explored the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consumption-of-microplastics-cant-be-avoided-and-they-damage-gut-health/">microplastics</a> on the human digestive system and organs including the kidney, liver, and brain.</p>



<p>“Over the past few decades, microplastics have been found in the ocean, in animals and plants, in tap water and bottled water. They appear to be everywhere,” said Eliseo Castillo, an expert in mucosal immunology at UNM.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-organ-tissues">Microplastics in organ tissues</h2>



<p>Experts estimate that the average person ingests about five grams of microplastics each week - the equivalent of the weight of a credit card. While many studies have focused on identifying and quantifying these particles, Castillo’s team is investigating their internal effects, particularly on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-gut-microbiome-is-shaped-by-what-we-eat/">gut</a> immune system.</p>



<p>In their experiments, mice were exposed to microplastics through their drinking water over a four-week period, mirroring the estimated weekly microplastic intake of humans. The results were alarming: microplastics not only migrated from the gut into the tissues of the liver, kidney, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-exposure-linked-to-changes-in-the-brain/">brain</a> but also altered metabolic pathways within these organs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-can-cross-the-intestinal-barrier-nbsp">Microplastics can cross the intestinal barrier&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“We could detect microplastics in certain tissues after the exposure. That tells us it can cross the intestinal barrier and infiltrate into other tissues,” Castillo said. “These mice were exposed for four weeks. Now, think about how that equates to humans, if we're exposed from birth to old age.”</p>



<p>The study also raises concerns about the potential for microplastics to exacerbate underlying health conditions. Castillo’s earlier research has shown that microplastics impact macrophages - the immune cells that protect the body from foreign particles. For instance, a 2021 study published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10565-021-09616-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Cell Biology and Toxicology</em></a> revealed that microplastics alter macrophage function, triggering them to release inflammatory molecules.</p>



<p>“It is changing the metabolism of the cells, which can alter inflammatory responses. During intestinal inflammation – states of chronic illness such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, which are both forms of inflammatory bowel disease – these macrophages become more inflammatory and they’re more abundant in the gut,” Castillo explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-diet-influence-microplastic-intake-nbsp">How does diet influence microplastic intake?&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, Castillo’s team, including postdoctoral fellow Sumira Phatak, is set to explore how diet influences microplastic uptake. They plan to experiment with different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthier-diets-are-not-attainable-for-everyone/">diets</a> in laboratory animals to see if certain foods affect the body’s absorption of microplastics.</p>



<p>“Everyone’s diet is different. So, what we're going to do is give these laboratory animals a high-cholesterol/high-fat diet, or high-fiber diet, and they will be either exposed or not exposed to microplastics. The goal is to try to understand if diet affects the uptake of microplastics into our body,” Castillo added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-gut-microbiota-nbsp">Changes in gut microbiota&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Moreover, Castillo’s PhD student, Aaron Romero, is investigating changes in the gut microbiota caused by microplastics. While it’s known that microplastics can alter the microbiota, the mechanisms behind these changes remain unclear.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the experts hope that these findings will not only deepen our understanding of the health impacts of microplastics but also catalyze changes in how plastics are produced and managed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“At the end of the day, the research we are trying to do aims to find out how this is impacting gut health. Research continues to show the importance of gut health. If you don't have a healthy gut, it affects the brain, it affects the liver and so many other tissues. So even imagining that the microplastics are doing something in the gut, that chronic exposure could lead to systemic effects,” Castillo concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-associated-with-microplastic-ingestion">Health impacts associated with microplastic ingestion</h2>



<p>The extent and severity of health risks associated with microplastic exposure are still under investigation. More research is needed to determine the precise implications and to understand the mechanisms through which microplastics can affect human health. Here are some of the potential impacts:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-damage">Physical damage</h3>



<p>Microplastics can cause physical damage to tissues, especially if they are sharp or angular. They may irritate or perforate the tissues of the digestive tract.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-exposure">Chemical exposure</h3>



<p>Microplastics can carry pollutants, including toxic chemicals like heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and bisphenol A (BPA), which can leach into the body. These substances are known to have carcinogenic, developmental, and endocrine-disrupting effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-and-immune-response">Inflammation and immune response</h3>



<p>There is evidence that microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses or affect the immune system. Small particles can be mistaken by the body as harmful invaders, leading to an immune response.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-for-bioaccumulation">Potential for bioaccumulation</h3>



<p>Microplastics might accumulate in the body and organs over time, especially since they are not biodegradable. The long-term health effects of this accumulation are not yet fully understood.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-on-gut-health">Effects on gut health</h3>



<p>Research has suggested that microplastics can affect the gut microbiota, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues or impacting nutrient absorption.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP1343" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Environmental Health Perspectives</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Microplastics migrate from the gut to other organs

Every day, microplastics are making their way into our bodies...

<p></p>
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<p><br />
<span style="font-weight: 400;">Today&#8217;s </span><b>Video of the Day</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> from the </span><a href="https://www.acs.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">American Chemical Society</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> addresses the question of whether using cannabidiol (CBD) puts you at risk of failing a drug test.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the active chemical in marijuana that makes users feel high, CBD is not psychoactive.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, the chemical structures of CBD and THC are very similar. In addition, CBD is not FDA-approved, so there is no guarantee that the contents listed on the label are accurate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A 2017 study from the University of Pennsylvania tested more than 80 CBD products and found traces of THC in over 20 percent of them.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8212;</span></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">By </span><a href="http://csexton@earth.com"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chrissy Sexton</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earth.com</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Staff Writer</span></em></p>
<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Video Credit: American Chemical Society</span></em></p>

How do CBD products affect drug tests?