<p>Today's Image of the Day from the European Space Agency features the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), located about 3,300 light-years from Earth in the constellation Draco. </p>



<p>The nebula's name comes from its eye-like appearance when viewed through a telescope. This particular image, which reveals the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-webb-telescope-captured-unprecedented-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in stunning detail, was captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-nebulae-nbsp">Planetary nebulae&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to ESA, the Cat's Eye Nebula is one of the most complex planetary nebulae that has ever been discovered.</p>



<p>“A planetary nebula forms when Sun-like stars gently eject their outer gaseous layers to form bright nebulae with amazing twisted shapes," explained <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"Until recently, it was thought that shells around planetary nebulae were a rare phenomenon. However, astronomers have instead shown that these rings are likely to be the rule rather than the exception."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance-of-the-cat-s-eye-nebula-nbsp">Appearance of the Cat's Eye Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The central focus of the Cat's Eye is a hot, dying star that has shed its outer layers to form the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a>. It is surrounded by concentric gas shells, jets of high-speed gas, and unusual shock-induced knots of gas.</p>



<p>“Although the rings may be the key to explaining the final ‘gasp’ of the dying central star, the mystery behind the Cat’s Eye Nebula’s nested ‘Russian doll’ structure remains largely unsolved,” noted ESA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-around-the-cat-s-eye">Rings around the Cat’s Eye</h2>



<p>“This image, taken with Hubble's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), reveals the full pattern of eleven or more concentric rings, or shells, around the Cat’s Eye. Each ‘ring’ is actually the edge of a spherical bubble seen projected onto the sky - which is why it appears bright along its outer edge.”</p>



<p>According to ESA, observations suggest that the star ejected its mass in a series of pulses at 1,500-year intervals. “These convulsions created dust shells that each contains as much mass as all of the planets in our solar system combined.”</p>



<p>Several explanations have been proposed for this phenomenon, including cycles of magnetic activity similar to our Sun's sunspot cycle, the influence of companion stars orbiting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dying star</a>, or stellar pulsations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another theory suggests that the material is ejected smoothly from the star, with the rings forming later due to the creation of waves in the outflowing material.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-draco-nbsp">The constellation Draco&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extrasolar-ocean-planet-discovered-in-the-draco-constellation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draco</a> is a constellation in the northern sky that represents a dragon. It's one of the largest constellations, winding between the Big and Little Dippers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In Greek mythology, Draco is often identified as the dragon Ladon, who guarded the golden apples in the garden of the Hesperides.</p>



<p>Draco is a circumpolar constellation for most northern hemisphere observers, meaning it never sets below the horizon and can be seen all year round.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-planetary-nebulae">Famous planetary nebulae </h2>



<p>Planetary nebulae are some of the most beautiful and intriguing objects in the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of the most famous is the Ring Nebula, or M57, located in the constellation Lyra. This nebula is renowned for its nearly perfect ring shape, which is the result of a dying star shedding its outer layers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another well-known planetary nebula is the Helix Nebula, or NGC 7293, often referred to as the "Eye of God" due to its eye-like appearance. The Helix Nebula is one of the closest planetary nebulae to Earth, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Dumbbell Nebula, or M27, in the constellation Vulpecula, is another striking example. It is named for its resemblance to a dumbbell and is notable for being the first planetary nebula ever discovered, by Charles Messier in 1764.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Butterfly Nebula, or NGC 6302, is located in the constellation Scorpius. Its name comes from its distinctive bipolar structure, resembling the wings of a butterfly. The nebula's central star is one of the hottest known, with a surface temperature of around 250,000 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Finally, the Eskimo Nebula, or NGC 2392, in the constellation Gemini, is known for its resemblance to a face surrounded by a fur parka, which gives it its name. Its intricate structure, including filaments and bubble-like shapes, makes it a fascinating object of study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These nebulae not only captivate us with their beauty but also provide valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the processes that shape our galaxy.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope</p>



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Cat's Eye Nebula in the constellation Draco

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the Southern Ring Nebula, also known as NGC 3132, located about 2,000 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Vela. This remarkably detailed image was created using data from Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam).</p>



<p>The Southern Ring Nebula is one of the more famous examples of planetary nebulae, often studied for its beauty and valuable insights into the end stages of stellar evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-power-the-southern-ring-nebula">Stars power the Southern Ring Nebula </h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragons-egg-nebula-is-a-truly-stunning-sight-to-behold/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> is powered by two central stars in a binary system. The brighter star in visible light is actually a less massive companion, while the fainter, dimmer star is the dying, hot central star that has shed its outer layers to form the nebula. This star is a white dwarf and is responsible for the ionization of the gas in the nebula, causing it to glow.</p>



<p>“The bright star at the center of NGC 3132, while prominent when viewed by NASA’s Webb Telescope in near-infrared light, plays a supporting role in sculpting the surrounding nebula. A second star, barely visible at lower left along one of the bright star’s diffraction spikes, is the nebula’s source. It has ejected at least eight layers of gas and dust over thousands of years,” noted <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>“But the bright central star visible here has helped ‘stir’ the pot, changing the shape of this planetary nebula’s highly intricate rings by creating turbulence. The pair of stars are locked in a tight orbit, which leads the dimmer star to spray ejected material in a range of directions as they orbit one another, resulting in these jagged rings.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-characteristics-of-the-southern-ring-nebula-nbsp">Key characteristics of the Southern Ring Nebula&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Southern Ring Nebula displays a complex structure with multiple layers of gas and dust. The outer shells of the nebula consist of hydrogen and other elements that were ejected from the dying star in previous stages of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-stellar-objects-observing-the-early-lives-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a>.&nbsp;These layers are illuminated by ultraviolet radiation from the central white dwarf.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coloration">Coloration</h3>



<p>The colors seen in the Southern Ring Nebula come from the different gases present. For example, hydrogen emits red light, while oxygen emits blue-green light. These colors help astronomers study the composition and dynamics of the nebula.</p>



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



<p>The nebula spans about half a light-year in diameter. Its intricate, symmetrical structure provides valuable insights into the late stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>, especially the processes involved in the shedding of outer layers by dying stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotlights-from-the-bright-star">Spotlights from the bright star</h2>



<p>ESA noted that hundreds of straight, brightly-lit lines pierce through the rings of gas and dust. “These ‘spotlights’ emanate from the bright star and stream through holes in the nebula like sunlight through gaps in a cloud.</p>



<p>“But not all of the starlight can escape. The density of the central region, set off in teal, is reflected by how transparent or opaque it is. Areas that are a deeper teal indicate that the gas and dust are denser - and light is unable to break free.”</p>



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



<p>According to ESA, this is not only a crisp image of a planetary nebula - it also shows us objects in the vast distances of space behind it. The transparent red sections of the nebula are filled with distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-have-hearts-and-lungs-that-help-them-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.</p>



<p>“Look for the bright angled line at the upper left. It is not starlight - it is a faraway galaxy seen edge-on. Distant spirals, of many shapes and colors, also dot the scene. Those that are farthest away - or very dusty - are small and red,” said ESA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-constellation-vela-nbsp">The constellation Vela&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Vela is a southern constellation that represents the sails of a ship. It was once part of a larger constellation called Argo Navis, which depicted the ship of the mythological hero Jason and the Argonauts. In the 18th century, Argo Navis was divided into three separate constellations: Vela (the sails), Carina (the keel), and Puppis (the stern).</p>



<p>Vela is notable for containing several interesting astronomical features. One of its most prominent stars is Gamma Velorum, also known as Suhail or Regor, which is a bright, massive star system consisting of multiple stars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The constellation also hosts the Vela Supernova Remnant, the remains of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> explosion that occurred about 11,000 years ago. This remnant is associated with the Vela Pulsar, a neutron star formed from the supernova explosion, which is one of the brightest pulsars in the sky.</p>



<p>Vela is best observed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it can be seen in the summer months, though it is partially visible in the Northern Hemisphere as well. Its position along the Milky Way makes it a popular region for both amateur and professional astronomers to explore.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI</p>



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Southern Ring Nebula in the constellation Vela 

<p>Today's Image of the Day from NASA Earth Observatory features Harrat Khaybar, one of the largest volcanic fields in Saudi Arabia. This extensive lava field, which covers 5,400 square-miles, was formed by eruptions over the last five million years.</p>



<p>“According to the Smithsonian’s Global Volcanism Program, the volcanic field is still active, and eight lava flows are less than 1,500 years old. The last known eruption was reported in Harrat Khaybar in the 7th century,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>A couple of the youngest volcanic vents in Harrat Khaybar can be seen in this <a href="https://eoimages.gsfc.nasa.gov/images/imagerecords/152000/152839/harratkhaybar_oli2_20240425_lrg.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">image</a>, which was captured by the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-qidr-nbsp">Jabal Qidr&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“These volcanoes resulted from different eruptive styles: Jabal Qidr is a stratovolcano (or composite cone); Jabal Abyad is a felsic dome; and Jabal Bayda is a tuff cone,” explained NASA.</p>



<p>“Jabal Qidr, in the northern part of the volcanic field, is built from several generations of dark, basaltic lava flows. Qidr has a 400-meter-diameter summit crater and exhibits the textbook cone shape of a stratovolcano. This is the only stratovolcano in the harrats of western Saudi Arabia.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-abyad-nbsp">Jabal Abyad&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Visible in the center of the image, Jabal Abyad was formed from a more viscous, silica-rich lava classified as rhyolite, noted NASA.</p>



<p>"While Jabal Qidr exhibits the cone shape of a stratovolcano, Jabal Abyad is a lava dome - a rounded mass of thicker, more solidified lava flows. Abyad’s dome reaches over 2,090 meters above sea level, the highest elevation amongst all the surrounding harrats.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jabal-bayda-nbsp">Jabal Bayda&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To the west of Jabal Abyad is Jabal Bayda, a tuff cone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-aspect-of-volcanic-eruptions-observed-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcano</a> with a much larger summit crater measuring 1,400 meters in diameter, stated NASA.</p>



<p>"Tuff cones form from the interaction of rising magma with water. When heated rapidly by lava, water turns to steam and expands violently, fragmenting the lava into plumes of very fine grains of ash.”</p>



<p>In Arabic, abyad and bayda are the masculine and feminine words for “white.” The lighter color of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/mount-erebus-breaks-through-the-clouds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mountains</a> is associated with lava that has high silica content. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-harrat-khaybar-nbsp">More about Harrat Khaybar&nbsp;</h2>



<p>One of the notable features of Harrat Khaybar is its striking contrast between the black basaltic lava fields and white-colored rhyolitic lava domes. This contrast creates a visually stunning terrain, with some areas of the field resembling a lunar or Martian landscape.</p>



<p>Harrat Khaybar is part of a larger series of harrats, or lava fields, which are prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula. The largest of these volcanic fields is Harrat Rahat, which stretches over 20,000 square kilometers.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> in Harrat Khaybar began millions of years ago and has continued into relatively recent times, with the last known eruptions occurring several thousand years ago.</p>



<p>The field is also notable for its archaeological sites, including ancient rock art, which provide insights into the early human habitation of the area. </p>



<p>The harsh environment of Harrat Khaybar has shaped both the natural ecosystem and the human activities throughout its history, making it a place of interest not only for volcanologists but also for archaeologists and ecologists.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-activity-in-saudi-arabia">Volcanic activity in Saudi Arabia </h2>



<p>Saudi Arabia, despite being more commonly associated with vast deserts, has a surprising history of volcanic activity.</p>



<p>Volcanic eruptions have occurred over the past few thousand years, with the most recent major eruption occurring in the year 1256. That eruption, from a series of fissures, sent lava flowing towards the city of Medina, but it stopped before reaching the urban area. Historical records document the panic that followed, as people feared the destruction of the city.</p>



<p>While there hasn't been a significant eruption since, there are still signs of geothermal activity, such as hot springs and occasional minor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-music-will-yellowstones-seismic-activity-produce/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic activity</a>. </p>



<p>Researchers monitor the volcanic fields for any signs of future eruptions, though none are currently expected. Despite the long periods of dormancy, Saudi Arabia's volcanic landscape remains an important part of the country's natural history.</p>



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



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Harrat Khaybar: An active lava field in Saudi Arabia

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 the Wapiti Fire in central Idaho, which was ignited by lightning on July 24, 2024.&nbsp;</p>



<p>More than a month later, the fire continues to devastate areas across the Boise, Sawtooth, and Salmon-Challis National Forests.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-explosive-fire-activity">Explosive fire activity</h2>



<p>In its first month, the Wapiti Fire burned about 9,000 acres. It has now grown twelve times larger, burning more than 108,000 acres.</p>



<p>“Fire activity ramped up in late August, expanding its footprint to over 100,000 acres (400 square kilometers) by early September. The Wapiti fire, as well as the Middle Fork Complex fires burning nearby, have spurred evacuation orders and highway and public lands closures,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153274/wildland-fires-scorch-idaho-wilderness" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>By September 3rd, the Wapiti Fire was 2% contained, with firefighting efforts heavily focused on protecting nearby structures and communities, particularly around Stanley and Lowman.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpredictable-behavior-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Unpredictable behavior of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The fire's behavior has been unpredictable, intensifying during periods of unstable weather, especially when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thunderstorms-are-becoming-more-intense-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thunderstorms</a> with strong winds have passed through. This has made containment difficult and forced the evacuation of multiple areas, including the communities along Idaho Highway 21.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Efforts to manage the fire include using air tankers to drop fire retardant and creating containment lines to prevent further spread. However, the fire continues to threaten homes and critical infrastructure, with many structures already lost. </p>



<p>Local authorities have emphasized the importance of residents being prepared for evacuation, advising them to gather essential documents and possessions in advance.</p>



<p>The fire has led to the closure of vast sections of national forest land, with restrictions expected to remain in place until at least the end of the year, depending on the fire's progression.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensity-of-the-wapiti-fire-nbsp">Intensity of the Wapiti Fire&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to media reports, the intensity of the Wapiti Fire can be largely attributed to certain types of vegetation in the area that rapidly fuel fire. The main fuel in this case is timber in forests that already have “60-80% tree mortality from insects and disease,” </p>



<p>To make matters worse, the Wapiti Fire is burning in areas that are difficult to reach. The fire is located in steep and rugged terrain within the Boise National Forest that is challenging for firefighting crews to access. The difficult terrain and limited access routes have greatly complicated firefighting efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lightning-caused-wildfires-nbsp">Lightning-caused wildfires&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Lightning is often responsible for igniting large, destructive fires, particularly in remote and forested areas. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-in-siberia-are-a-growing-global-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a> occur when a lightning strike, typically from dry thunderstorms, ignites dry vegetation like grass, leaves, or trees.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors">Contributing factors</h3>



<p>The intensity and frequency of these wildfires are influenced by several factors, including the amount of available dry fuel, the local climate, and the specific characteristics of the lightning strike itself, such as its intensity and duration.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-western-united-states-nbsp">Western United States&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In some regions, like the western United States, lightning is responsible for the majority of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfires-threaten-environmental-gains-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>, especially during the summer months when thunderstorms are more common. These fires can spread rapidly, driven by winds and the availability of dry fuel, making them difficult to control.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Lightning-caused wildfires can also lead to the formation of large fire complexes, where multiple fires merge into one, further complicating firefighting efforts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role">Ecological role</h3>



<p>Interestingly, while lightning-caused wildfires can be destructive, they also play a crucial role in certain ecosystems. These fires can help to clear out dead vegetation, promote new growth, and maintain the health of fire-adapted ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-fire-weather">The future of fire weather</h2>



<p>The future of fire weather is deeply concerning, as climate change is expected to significantly worsen the conditions that lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/canadian-wildfires-of-2023-were-a-global-environmental-setback/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfires</a>.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere will hold more moisture, but paradoxically, many regions will experience more intense and prolonged droughts. This will dry out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increased-co2-is-making-wildfires-more-severe-and-frequent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>, turning forests and grasslands into tinderboxes ready to ignite.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, higher temperatures will increase the likelihood of extreme heat waves, which can further desiccate landscapes and create the perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly and uncontrollably.</p>



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



<p>Another factor influencing fire weather is changing precipitation patterns. While some areas might experience more rain, others will become drier, with rain increasingly falling in intense, short bursts rather than steady, prolonged periods. This leads to rapid runoff, reducing soil moisture and leaving the ground dry and more susceptible to fire. </p>



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



<p>The intensity and frequency of wind events, driven by shifting atmospheric patterns, are also expected to increase, which can fan the flames of wildfires, causing them to spread more quickly and making them harder to control.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extended-fire-seasons">Extended fire seasons</h3>



<p>In the future, fire seasons will likely become longer, and fires will grow in both size and intensity. Regions that have historically been less prone to wildfires may begin to see more frequent fire events as their climates change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The combination of these factors will make managing wildfires more challenging, putting greater pressure on firefighting resources and leading to increased risks to human life, property, and ecosystems. </p>



<p>The future of fire weather is a harsh reminder of the broader impacts of climate change, and the urgent need to adapt to our new reality.</p>



<p>The Wapiti Fire image was captured on August 31, 2024 by the OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8.</p>



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



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

Wapiti Fire in Idaho: Unpredictable and difficult to contain

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features the star-forming region NGC 604, which is located 2.73 million light-years away from Earth in the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). The image was captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.</p>



<p>By studying regions like NGC 604, astronomers can gain insights into the complex interactions between stars and the interstellar medium, as well as the conditions that lead to the birth of stars. This, in turn, helps in understanding the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> and the universe as a whole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-stars-of-ngc-604">Massive stars of NGC 604</h2>



<p>"Sheltered among NGC 604’s dusty envelopes of gas are more than 200 of the hottest, most massive kinds of stars, all in the early stages of their lives," said <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>.</p>



<p>"These types of stars are known as B-types and O-types, the latter of which can be more than 100 times the mass of our own Sun. It’s quite rare to find this concentration of them in the nearby universe. In fact, there’s no similar region within our own Milky Way galaxy."</p>



<p>According to ESA, this concentration of massive stars, combined with its relatively close distance, means NGC 604 gives astronomers an opportunity to study these objects at a fascinating time early in their life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gigantic-region-of-ionized-hydrogen">Gigantic region of ionized hydrogen</h2>



<p>NGC 604 is one of the largest known regions of ionized hydrogen, also known as an H II region. This nebula is significantly larger than the Orion Nebula, which is one of the most well-known H II regions in our own <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 galaxy</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>NGC 604 spans about 1,500 light-years across, making it one of the largest H II regions in the Local Group of galaxies, which includes the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and about 54 other smaller galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ngc-604-starburst-phenomenon">NGC 604 starburst phenomenon </h2>



<p>Within NGC 604, there are hundreds of young, hot, massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>. These stars have ionized the surrounding gas, causing it to glow and creating the nebula. The region is a prime example of a starburst phenomenon, where stars form at a much higher rate than in typical galactic conditions.</p>



<p>“The bright orange streaks in this image signify the presence of carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs," explained ESA.</p>



<p>"As you travel further from the immediate cavities of dust where the star is forming, the deeper red signifies molecular hydrogen. This cooler gas is a prime environment for star formation. Ionized hydrogen from ultraviolet radiation appears as a white and blue ghostly glow."</p>



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



<p>Star formation is crucial for the evolution of galaxies and the synthesis of heavy elements. In the cores of stars, elements heavier than helium are created.</p>



<p>The elements are spread throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> when stars reach the end of their lives and expel their material - either gently through winds or violently via supernova explosions. This enriching process allows for the formation of new stars and planets, and ultimately, the potential for life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-star-formation">Process of star formation</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cloud collapse</h3>



<p>The process begins when part of a molecular cloud becomes unstable and starts to collapse under its own gravity. This can be triggered by events like shock waves from nearby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernovae</a>, galactic collisions, or the influence of other massive stars.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Formation of a protostar</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller clumps. Each clump will eventually form one or more stars. </p>



<p>The material within these clumps continues to fall inward, heating up as it does so, eventually forming a warm core called a protostar. At this stage, the protostar is not yet hot enough for nuclear fusion (the process that powers stars) to occur.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accretion disk</h3>



<p>Around the protostar, material from the surrounding cloud continues to fall inward, forming a rotating disk. This material slowly accretes onto the protostar, increasing its mass.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nuclear fusion begins</h3>



<p>Once the core of the protostar reaches a high enough temperature and pressure, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing energy in the process. This marks the transition from a protostar to a main sequence star, like our sun.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Main sequence and beyond</h3>



<p>The star will spend the majority of its life in the main sequence stage, where it balances the gravitational forces trying to collapse it and the outward pressure from nuclear fusion. </p>



<p>Eventually, the star will exhaust its hydrogen fuel. Its subsequent evolution will depend on its initial mass, leading to various end stages such as red giants, supernovae, neutron stars, or black holes.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope</p>



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



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

NGC 604 is home to hundreds of hot, massive stars

<p>Undeniably, this summer has left a searing imprint on us - not only have we endured the intense heat of 2024 but we have also grappled with the alarming reality of global warming. </p>



<p>Look at it this way – from June to August, we sweated under an average temperature of 16.8 degrees Celsius (62.24 degrees Fahrenheit), surpassing 2023's record by 0.03 degrees Celsius (0.05 degrees Fahrenheit). It's enough to send 2023 tumbling from its dubious pedestal of "hottest summer."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-august-madness-deja-vu-all-over-again">August madness: Déjà vu, all over again</h2>



<p>This year's August was a familiar foe - tying with last year's August as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-earths-hottest-day-ever-was-recorded-on-july-22-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hottest</a> ever. Although July had mercifully been slightly cooler, June was relentless, outshining its previous year's counterpart to secure the ominous "hottest summer" title for 2024. </p>



<p>July was the first time in more than a year that the world did not set a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-records-shatter-2024-set-to-be-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record</a>, a tad behind 2023, but because June 2024 was so much hotter than June 2023, this summer as a whole was the hottest, explained Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo.</p>



<p>“What those sober numbers indicate is how the climate crisis is tightening its grip on us,” said Stefan Rahmstorf, a climate scientist at the <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/en/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Potsdam Institute for Climate Research</a>, who wasn’t involved in this study. It's a chilling tale of the climate crisis gradually tightening its grip on our lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humidity-in-the-summer-of-2024">Humidity in the summer of 2024</h2>



<p>Ever noticed how high temperatures seem to usher in higher humidity levels? This summer, we potentially set another unwanted record for air humidity levels. </p>



<p>Buontempo was initially unsure whether 2024 would smash the hottest year record set last year - mostly because August 2023 was so much hotter than average. But now that August 2024 has matched 2023, Buontempo is “pretty certain” that this year will snatch the "hottest year" title.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-forward-projections">Alarming forward projections</h2>



<p>How do we put a stop to 2024's record-breaking summer spree? It would take an unexpected and drastic cooling spell in the upcoming months, which, according to Buontempo, is highly improbable. </p>



<p>“In order for 2024 not to become the warmest on record, we need to see very significant landscape cooling for the remaining few months, which doesn’t look likely at this stage,” Buontempo said.</p>



<p>Even the anticipated respite of the natural cooling event of La Niña may not suffice to deter 2024 from a sweep of the "hottest year" title.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-summer-2024-beyond-the-numbers">Summer 2024: Beyond the numbers</h2>



<p>“This all translates to more misery around the world as places like Phoenix start to feel like a barbecue locked on high for longer and longer stretches of the year,” said climate scientist Jonathan Overpeck of the <a href="https://umich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>. The Arizona city has had more than 100 days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) weather this year.</p>



<p>“With longer and more severe heat waves come more severe droughts in some places, and more intense rains and flooding in others. Climate change is becoming too obvious, and too costly, to ignore.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battlefield-of-extreme-weather">Battlefield of extreme weather</h2>



<p>The continuous barrage of extreme weather we're facing gives us the eerie feeling of being in a war zone, according to Jennifer Francis, a climate scientist at the <a href="https://www.woodwellclimate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woodwell Climate Research Center</a>. </p>



<p>She urges us to recognize the incessant cacophony of heatwaves, floods, wildfires, and high winds as not mere weather quirks, but dire warnings.</p>



<p>“Like people living in a war zone with the constant thumping of bombs and clatter of guns, we are becoming deaf to what should be alarm bells and air-raid sirens,” Francis said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-under-the-climate-hammer">Under the climate hammer</h2>



<p>As the effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> recede, a harsher reality emerges - we are facing what mainly stems from long-term human-induced climate change. </p>



<p>Our actions, particularly the burning of coal, oil, and natural gas, have led us here. Buontempo warns that we are likely to experience more heatwaves and temperature extremes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scorching-summer-of-2024">Scorching summer of 2024</h2>



<p>Despite a relatively mild summer in the UK, the global scenario has been far from forgiving. This year, the first eight months alone have recorded a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperatures-increase-scientists-plan-slow-down-rising-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global-average temperature</a> anomaly 0.70°C above the 1991-2020 average. </p>



<p>Unless we witness an unprecedented plunge of at least 0.30°C in the average anomaly for the rest of the year, 2024 could outdo 2023, a prospect unheard of in the ERA5 dataset.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sweltering-epidemic-of-heatwaves">Sweltering epidemic of heatwaves</h2>



<p>Multiple countries spanning the Americas, Africa, Europe, and Asia have sweltered under the year's record-breaking heat, resulting in drastic water shortages and loss of lives, particularly in Mexico and Central America.</p>



<p>It's about time we actively heed these warnings. Samantha Burgess, Deputy Director of CS3, asserts that we need urgent action to curtail greenhouse gas emissions or brace ourselves for more extreme temperature-related events and their catastrophic aftermaths. Isn't it time we turned the heat down a notch?</p>



<p>This was a comprehensive rundown of 2024, our planet's most sweltering summer to date. This isn't to institute fear, but to inspire change. Let's take this as a not-so-gentle nudge to do our part in salvaging our planet. After all, every little effort counts.</p>



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



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

Scorching summer of 2024 could make it the hottest year on record

Undeniably, this summer has left a searing imprint on us...

<p>In our animated world, life teems with activity day and night. Unseen to the human eye, tiny bacteria - the oldest life forms on Earth - have a secret internal rhythm that they use to sense the arrival of new seasons. Bacteria are, in fact, able to "set" their internal 24-hour clocks to predict the coming cold.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-clock-of-bacteria">Biological clock of bacteria</h2>



<p>Findings from a recent study could give a fresh insight into adapting to climate change. The focus of the study was cyanobacteria, a type of blue-green algae. Researchers created an artificial environment with varying day lengths at a constant warm temperature to see how these tiny organisms would react. </p>



<p>The bacteria were exposed to either short days, equinox days (equal light and dark), or long days - all part of an "ice bucket challenge."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icy-stress-test">Icy stress test</h2>



<p>After eight days, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-plants-into-carbon-capture-machines-with-cyanobacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanobacteria</a> were subjected to an ice bath for two hours, and survival rates were observed. </p>



<p>These microscopic organisms, which had been conditioned to a sequence of short days before the icy stress test, had survival rates of 75%. Astoundingly, this was up to three times higher than those that had not been prepped in this way.</p>



<p>Just one short day wasn't enough to boost their cold resistance. It took a series of short days, ideally six to eight, for their chance of survival to notably improve.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-biological-clocks-in-bacteria">Role of biological clocks in bacteria</h2>



<p>Interestingly, when these bacteria had their biological clock genes removed, their survival rates were the same regardless of day lengths. </p>



<p>What does this tell us? It shows that their ability to measure the day-night cycle - known as photoperiodism - is crucial for adapting to longer-term environmental changes such as a new season or climate shifts.</p>



<p>"After a certain number of short days, similar to autumn, they 'switch' to a different physiology in anticipation of the wintry challenges that lie ahead," explained Dr. Luísa Jabbur, the first author of the study.</p>



<p>Dr Jabbur conducted this research under the guidance of Professor Carl Johnson at <a href="https://www.vanderbilt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt University</a>, Tennessee, and currently holds a BBSRC Discovery Fellow at the John Innes Centre.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bacteria-clocks-and-seasons">Bacteria, clocks, and seasons</h2>



<p>Previous studies have shown that bacteria possess a version of a biological clock, which could offer an evolutionary advantage by measuring differences in day-night length. But this research is the first of its kind to demonstrate that photoperiodism in bacteria evolved to anticipate seasonal cues.</p>



<p>The question that this uncovers is, how does an organism with a lifespan of just six to 24 hours evolve a mechanism not merely to react to, but to anticipate, future conditions?</p>



<p>"It’s like they are signaling to their daughter cells and their granddaughter cells, passing information that the days are getting short, you need to do something," said Dr. Jabbur.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-our-tiny-organisms">What's next for our tiny organisms?</h2>



<p>The John Innes Centre, where Dr. Jabbur is currently based, will further use cyanobacteria to understand how photoperiodic responses might evolve in other species during climate change.</p>



<p>Dr Jabbur believes that unlocking the secrets of these tiny organisms could hold the key to major future advancements, such as improving crop resilience in the face of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bacteria-clocks-and-agriculture">Bacteria clocks and agriculture</h2>



<p>The implications of this research extend far beyond the microscopic world of cyanobacteria. Understanding how these organisms adapt their physiological responses in anticipation of environmental changes could potentially transform agricultural practices.</p>



<p>If we can harness the mechanisms of photoperiodism in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-and-imprint-new-era-dna-transformation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a>, we might be able to enhance crop resilience against climate variances and extreme weather patterns. </p>



<p>By selectively breeding or genetically modifying crops to respond similarly, we can create varieties that are better equipped to handle sudden changes in temperature or precipitation, thus ensuring food security in a tumultuous climate landscape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broadening-our-perspective">Broadening our perspective</h2>



<p>This discovery on the biological clock of bacteria also encourages a re-evaluation of the role that microbial life plays within ecosystems. Traditionally, bacteria have been viewed largely through the lens of their immediate impacts on health and decay.</p>



<p>Yet, as these findings illustrate, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-pass-down-memories-to-future-generations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> exhibit remarkable adaptations to environmental shifts, suggesting a more profound ecological intelligence than previously acknowledged. </p>



<p>This broadened perspective invites us to consider the contributions of microorganisms in not only maintaining ecosystem balance but also in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.</p>



<p>Through a collaborative effort that merges microbiology, ecology, and agricultural science, we can better appreciate and leverage the incredible capabilities of these tiny life forms in our quest for sustainability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-laugh-and-a-legacy">A laugh and a legacy</h2>



<p>This discovery is indeed a promising scientific breakthrough for Dr Jabbur, who faced initial skepticism from her scientific mentor, Professor Carl Johnson. But as they say, the proof is in the pudding, and her experiments were successful.</p>



<p>“As well as being a fascinating person and an inspiration, Carl sings in the Nashville Symphony Chorus, and he has an operatic laugh! It echoed round the department when I first outlined my idea for the icy challenge, to see if photoperiod was a cue for cyanobacteria in their natural element,” said Dr. Jabbur. </p>



<p>“To be fair he told me to go away and try it, and as I went, he showed me a sign on his door with the Frank Westheimer quote: ‘Progress is made by young scientists who carry out experiments that old scientists say would not work.’&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It did work, first time. Then I repeated the experiments. There is something very precious about looking at a set of plates with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hungry-bacteria-will-devour-plastic-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bacteria</a> on them and realizing that in that moment you know something that nobody else knows.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado8588" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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Bacteria use biological clocks to predict and survive cold weather

In our animated world, life teems with activity day and...

<p>The universe is an infinite abyss filled with curiosities that have been puzzling humankind since we first craned our necks to the moonlit sky. Among these mysteries, the origins and mergers of supermassive black holes hold a special place.</p>



<p>Imagine a celestial entity with mass a million times that of the sun, tucked away in the center of a galaxy. That's not just any old space mystery - it's one of the grandest enigmas of the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-merger-events">Black hole merger events</h2>



<p>Researchers from the Nevada Center for Astrophysics at UNLV (NCfA) have recently made some intriguing revelations about these mighty <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jwst-has-detected-most-distant-black-hole-merger-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic phenomena</a>.</p>



<p>The focus of their study was the supermassive black hole at the heart of our Milky Way galaxy, known as Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*). The evidence points to an enticing possibility - Sgr A* is likely the offspring of a past cosmic merger.</p>



<p>Published in the journal <em>Nature Astronomy</em>, the study explored recent observations from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT). In 2022, the EHT achieved something phenomenal - it procured the first direct image of Sagittarius A*.</p>



<p>By syncing data from eight existing radio observatories worldwide, scientists created a mammoth Earth-sized virtual telescope.</p>



<p>Two astrophysicists from UNLV, Yihan Wang and Bing Zhang, leveraged this invaluable EHT data to probe how Sgr A* might have come into existence. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spin-and-misalignment-mystery">Spin and misalignment mystery</h2>



<p>Supermassive black holes are believed to grow either via the gradual accumulation of matter or by two existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-are-not-the-secret-source-of-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a> merging.</p>



<p>Wang and Zhang examined various growth models to comprehend the peculiar rapid spin and misalignment of Sgr A* in regard to the Milky Way’s angular momentum. </p>



<p>After rigorous research, they established that these odd traits hint at a significant merger event involving Sgr A* and another <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-binary-black-holes-secrets-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black hole</a>, most likely from a satellite galaxy.</p>



<p>“Our understanding of how supermassive black holes grow and evolve will greatly benefit from this discovery,” said Wang, the lead author of the study.</p>



<p>"The misaligned high spin of Sgr A* indicates that it may have merged with another black hole, causing a dramatic alteration in its amplitude and orientation of spin.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-merger-theory">Black hole merger theory</h2>



<p>The researchers didn’t just make these claims on a whim. They ran sophisticated simulations and tested numerous scenarios consistent with the observed spin properties of Sgr A*<em>. </em></p>



<p>The results suggested that a merger with a 4:1 mass ratio and a highly inclined orbital configuration could potentially replicate Sgr A's spin specifics.</p>



<p>“Around 9 billion years ago, after the Milky Way merged with the Gaia-Enceladus galaxy, this merger probably took place,” said Zhang, a distinguished professor of physics and astronomy at UNLV and the founding director of the <a href="https://ncfa.physics.unlv.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NCfA</a>.</p>



<p>“Not only does this event back the hierarchical black hole merger theory, but it also enlightens us on our galaxy's dynamic history.”</p>



<p>Sgr A* is not just any old celestial entity. It is perched at the center of our galaxy, more than 27,000 light-years from Earth. And to visualize this massive player, we need advanced tools like the EHT that facilitate direct imaging and help scientists test their predictive theories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-galactic-history">Unraveling galactic history</h2>



<p>The implications of understanding the formation of supermassive black holes extend far beyond the singularities themselves; they offer insights into the evolutionary narrative of galaxies. </p>



<p>The merger events that lead to the creation of these cosmic titans may also reveal how galaxies like our Milky Way have sculpted their environments over billions of years. When we witness black holes of immense scale, we are essentially gazing back through time to comprehend pivotal epochs of cosmic history.</p>



<p>These phenomena serve as markers of significant interactions with other celestial bodies, allowing astrophysicists to piece together a more comprehensive picture of the galactic tapestry we inhabit.</p>



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



<p>The researchers anticipate that their findings will bear substantial implications for future observations. In particular, they would be valuable for upcoming space-borne gravitational wave detectors like the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA).</p>



<p>Slated for launch in 2035, LISA is predicted to detect similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/merging-quasars-cosmic-dawn-reveal-how-early-universe-formed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a> mergers across the cosmos. </p>



<p>The researchers concluded: "The inferred merger rate, consistent with theoretical predictions, suggests a promising detection rate of SMBH mergers for the space-borne gravitational wave detectors expected to operate in the 2030s."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02358-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Astronomy.</em></a></p>



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Milky Way's black hole formed through a merger

The universe is an infinite abyss filled with curiosities that...


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