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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The vibrant seasons of central Ethiopia

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 NGC 6744 - a large, barred spiral galaxy located approximately 30 million light-years away in the constellation Pavo.&nbsp;</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Spiral galaxy NGC 6744 in the constellation Pavo

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features the Costa Atlántica Reserve stretching along the Atlantic coast in Argentina.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-refuge-for-migratory-birds-nbsp">A refuge for migratory birds&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“At the far southern reaches of South America, a stretch of tidal flats, shoals, and beaches serves as a refuge for migratory shorebirds and copious aquatic life,” said <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“The Costa Atlántica Reserve in Argentina extends for 220 kilometers (140 miles) along the eastern shore of Tierra del Fuego. The area was designated a Ramsar site in 1995 and a provincial nature reserve in 1998." </p>



<p>According to NASA, the reserve is the southernmost site both on the Ramsar list and in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-costa-atlantica-reserve">Significance of the Costa Atlántica Reserve</h2>



<p>The Costa Atlántica Reserve is an important conservation site that signifies Argentina's commitment to preserving its rich <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-induced-changes-in-ocean-salinity-threaten-biodiversity-and-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal biodiversity</a>. </p>



<p>This vast expanse of protected area serves as a sanctuary for many species, ranging from migratory birds to marine mammals and diverse plant life.</p>



<p>“Tidal habitats along the coast support some 135 species of birds, while crustaceans, mollusks, fish, and cetaceans feed in the productive coastal waters,” said NASA.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The topography inland of Costa Atlántica, stretching into Chile to the west, is blanketed in shrubs and grassland vegetation adapted to dry conditions - part of a semiarid ecosystem known as the Fuegian steppe.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-ecological-balance-nbsp">Maintaining ecological balance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Established to safeguard the delicate ecosystems of dunes, estuaries, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-lagoons-have-high-loads-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal lagoons</a>, the reserve plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It provides critical habitats for numerous threatened species, including the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/southern-right-whales-have-shifted-their-foraging-grounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Right Whale</a>, which finds refuge in these waters during its breeding season.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-costa-atlantica-reserve-a-living-laboratory-nbsp">Costa Atlántica Reserve: A living laboratory&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Costa Atlántica Reserve is not only a refuge for wildlife but also a living laboratory for scientific research. Conservationists and researchers work within its bounds to monitor ecosystems, study species behaviors, and develop strategies for sustainable management.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This ongoing research is pivotal in understanding the impacts of climate change on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-river-deltas-face-major-threats-beyond-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coastal environments</a> and in devising measures to mitigate these effects.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the reserve illustrates the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. Local communities are engaged in sustainable tourism and educational programs. </p>



<p>Through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-bird-photographers-improve-nesting-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eco-tourism</a> initiatives, visitors can experience the natural beauty of the reserve while contributing to its preservation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tierra-del-fuego-archipelago">Tierra del Fuego archipelago</h2>



<p>According to NASA, the broader landscape of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago was shaped by glaciers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Ice advanced over the mountains and lowlands during cold climatic periods between the mid-Pleistocene, about 1 million years ago, and the Last Glacial Maximum, about 20,000 years ago. San Sebastián Bay formed in a tectonic depression that was deepened by glacial erosion," noted NASA. </p>



<p>“Further evidence of glaciation, including hummocky moraines and fields of glacial erratics, appears around the bay, though it is too small to be visible in this image.”</p>



<p>“Partially enclosed by a long, sandy peninsula, San Sebastián Bay attracts copious migratory birds, some of which shuttle seasonally between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.”</p>



<p>“Large populations of the Hudsonian godwit, white-rumped sandpiper, and other long-distance flyers congregate in the vast intertidal zones. This part of the reserve, however, is vulnerable to the impact of oil and gas extraction from onshore and offshore deposits.”</p>



<p>The image was captured on February 20, 2024 by the <a href="https://landsat.gsfc.nasa.gov/satellites/landsat-9/landsat-9-instruments/oli-2-design/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OLI-2</a> (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9.</p>



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



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Costa Atlántica Reserve in Argentina

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

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from the European Space Agency features Messier 82, a starburst galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. This galaxy is actively forming new stars at a rate ten times that of the Milky Way.</p>



<p>In a study using the <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST), an international team of astronomers has taken an unprecedented look at Messier 82 (M82), revealing intricate details about its frenzied star formation. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-nircam-and-infrared-observations">The power of NIRCam and infrared observations</h2>



<p>The study, led by Alberto Bolatto, utilized Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) to penetrate the thick dust and gas covering the galaxy's core, a region critical to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baby-stars-release-sneezes-of-gas-and-dust-as-they-develop/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>. </p>



<p>"M82 has garnered a variety of observations over the years because it can be considered as the prototypical starburst galaxy," noted Bolatto. “With Webb’s size and resolution, we can look at this star-forming galaxy and see all of this beautiful new detail.”</p>



<p>Webb's NIRCam has proven crucial for observing areas like M82’s center, where layers of dust typically obscure the view in other wavelengths. The camera's ability to capture infrared light allows it to reveal the galaxy's core and its dynamic processes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-messier-82-image-shows-the-power-of-webb-nbsp">Messier 82 image shows the power of Webb&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“This image shows the power of Webb. Every single white dot in this image is either a star or a star cluster. We can start to distinguish all of these tiny point sources, which enables us to acquire an accurate count of all the star clusters in this galaxy,” noted study co-author Rebecca Levy from the University of Arizona.</p>



<p>One of the NIRCam's innovative features is its mode that prevents bright sources from overwhelming the detector, which was particularly useful in studying the intensely active center of Messier 82.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the image, dark brown tendrils of dust weave through the galaxy's glowing white core, interspersed with small green specks that represent concentrated areas of iron from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> remnants. Red patches highlight regions where molecular hydrogen is illuminated by the radiation from nearby young stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-galactic-winds">Insights into galactic winds</h2>



<p>The study also focused on understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galactic wind</a>, driven by the rapid rate of star formation and subsequent supernovae, influences M82’s environment. The NIRCam images showed clumpy streams of gas, appearing in red, which extend above and below the galaxy's plane, marking the path of this wind rushing out from the starburst's core.</p>



<p>A key revelation came from the NIRCam’s tracing of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), sooty chemical molecules that map out the structure of the galactic wind. To the surprise of researchers, the PAH emissions closely resembled the patterns of the hot, ionized gas, suggesting a more complex interaction within the wind than previously understood.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It was unexpected to see the PAH emission resemble ionised gas," said Bolatto. "PAHs are not supposed to live very long when exposed to such a strong radiation field, so perhaps they are being replenished all the time. It challenges our theories and shows us that further investigation is required."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-observations-of-messier-82">Future observations of Messier 82</h3>



<p>The findings from Webb are just the beginning. The team plans to further analyze Messier 82 with additional data, including spectroscopic observations, to determine the ages of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star clusters</a> and the duration of each star formation phase within the starburst environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These observations will also assist in a broader understanding of similar processes in early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ceers-2112-ancient-galaxy-looks-strikingly-similar-to-ours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>, which were common in the young universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study</h2>



<p>Study co-author Torsten Böker of the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> emphasized the broader implications of these findings. </p>



<p>“With these amazing Webb images, and our upcoming spectra, we can study how exactly the strong winds and shock fronts from young stars and supernovae can remove the very gas and dust from which new stars are forming,” explained Böker.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“A detailed understanding of this ‘feedback’ cycle is important for theories of how the early universe evolved, because compact starbursts such as the one in M82 were very common at high redshift.”</p>



<p>The study not only illuminates the specific mechanics of star formation in M82 but also enhances our general understanding of galactic evolution and the lifecycle of galaxies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit: ESA/Webb, NASA &amp; CSA</p>



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Messier 82: Unlocking the mysteries of star formation

<p>Today's <strong>Image of the Day</strong> from NASA Earth Observatory features Tropical Storm Francine moving across the Gulf of Mexico on the afternoon of September 10, 2024. </p>



<p>Just hours after the photo was captured by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the NOAA-21 satellite, the storm intensified into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coastal-hurricanes-are-intensifying-faster-due-to-climate-change/">hurricane</a> strength.</p>



<p>By September 11, Francine had become a Category 2 hurricane, reaching wind speeds of 100 miles per hour. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storms-fueled-by-rising-ocean-temperatures">Storms fueled by rising ocean temperatures</h2>



<p>“Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) are a fair predictor of the readiness of the ocean to fuel and sustain storms. Meteorologists generally agree that SSTs should be above 82 degrees Fahrenheit to sustain and intensify hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153309/francine-bears-down-on-louisiana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>“During the time of Francine’s development on September 8 to 10, temperatures in the southwestern Gulf were several degrees above that threshold and slightly above the 2003-2014 average for those dates, according to data from the Multiscale Ultrahigh Resolution Sea Surface Temperature (MUR SST) project.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-hurricane-francine">Impacts of Hurricane Francine</h2>



<p>Louisiana was hit hardest by Francine, with coastal areas experiencing life-threatening storm surges up to 10 feet, heavy rainfall, and significant flooding. In Terrebonne Parish, where Francine made landfall, more than 200,000 residents lost power.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Southern regions of Texas also experienced heavy rainfall and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>. Despite some weakening as Francine moved inland, Mississippi and other parts of the Gulf Coast still experienced flash flooding and strong winds as the system degraded into a tropical depression.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season">2024 Atlantic hurricane season</h2>



<p>The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has been notably active, but with an unusual break in activity leading up to Hurricane Francine.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-start-for-storms">Early start for storms</h3>



<p>The season officially began on June 1, 2024. By early September, there had been five named storms, including three hurricanes, with one reaching Category 5 status - Hurricane Beryl in July.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Beryl set an early-season record as it intensified rapidly due to exceptionally warm sea surface <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-has-nearly-doubled-in-the-last-decade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-calm">Surprising calm</h3>



<p>While the early part of the season saw significant activity, including Beryl's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-causes-the-rapid-intensification-of-hurricanes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explosive growth</a>, the basin has experienced a surprising calm since mid-August. </p>



<p>From August 12 to September 3, there was no tropical activity, marking the quietest stretch in over 50 years. Experts attribute this inactivity to several factors, including cooling waters in parts of the Atlantic and shifts in atmospheric patterns over Africa that disrupted storm formation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-ahead">What's ahead</h3>



<p>Looking ahead, forecasts are cautious but not pessimistic. Despite the quiet period, researchers still expect more activity, with potential for further storm development through September.</p>



<p>Predictions are pointing to up to 14 named storms - seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes - by the end of the 2024 season.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hurricanes-in-the-gulf-of-mexico-nbsp">Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The location of the Gulf of Mexico makes it a hotspot for hurricane development and landfall. Warm sea surface temperatures, especially in late summer and early fall, provide the energy needed for these storms to grow in intensity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When atmospheric conditions such as low wind shear and high moisture are favorable, hurricanes can rapidly intensify, becoming major threats to coastal regions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-little-time-for-preparation-nbsp">Little time for preparation&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Gulf of Mexico's geography also means that hurricanes have a relatively short distance to travel before making landfall, often allowing little time for preparation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Communities in coastal states like Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida are frequently in the path of these storms.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-devastating-impacts">Devastating impacts</h3>



<p>Over the years, hurricanes like Katrina, Harvey, and Ida have highlighted the devastating impacts, from storm surges and flooding to wind damage and disruption of infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Due to the Gulf's importance as an economic hub, especially for oil production and shipping, hurricanes can also have significant economic repercussions.</p>



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



<p>The region's vulnerability to hurricanes is compounded by climate change, which has led to warmer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-ocean-heating-signals-alarm-for-a-3c-warmer-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a> and more intense storms. </p>



<p>Predictions suggest that while the overall number of hurricanes may not increase, the number of major hurricanes (Category 3 and above) could rise. This will make the Gulf Coast an even more dangerous area during hurricane season, which typically lasts from June to November.</p>



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



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Hurricane Francine makes landfall in Louisiana 

<p>Many people might cringe at the mention of electric eels, but what is it that makes these creatures such a shocking presence in the animal kingdom? </p>



<p>Are they truly electric, and do they possess the power to deliver a jolt strong enough to stop you in your tracks? The science behind these aquatic hunters is truly fascinating. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anatomy-of-electric-eels">Anatomy of electric eels</h2>



<p>Electric eels are not actually "true" eels as those found in the order Anguilliformes, which includes well-known species like the Moray eel. Instead, these creatures belong to the Gymnotiformes order, also known as knifefishes.</p>



<p>Despite the name of electric eels, their lineage diverges from what we typically imagine when we think of these slippery, elongated fish.</p>



<p>In terms of physical attributes, electric eels bear a closer resemblance to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/controlling-invasive-carp-with-sound-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carp</a> and catfish, with their elongated, slender bodies and tapered tails designed for swift movement through the waters. This sleek form aids their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-hunting-behavior-observed-among-electric-eels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting</a> and survival in the dynamic river ecosystems of South America.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-evolution-of-electric-eels">Unique evolution of electric eels </h2>



<p>A fully grown electric eel, native to the murky rivers of the Amazon and Orinoco basin, can reach an impressive length of 2.5 meters (8 feet) and weigh up to 20 kilograms (45 pounds), making them formidable predators in their environment.</p>



<p>Unlike their marine cousins, which rely on gills for oxygen, electric eels are primarily air breathers, deriving around 80% of their oxygen needs by gulping air into their mouths. </p>



<p>This fascinating adaptation allows them to thrive in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/as-oceans-warm-up-smaller-species-of-fish-will-dominate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen-poor waters</a>, giving them an edge in environments where other species might struggle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-generators-of-electricity">Living generators of electricity</h2>



<p>Delving deeper into their anatomy, three unique organs nested within electric eels give them the incredible <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-eels-can-genetically-modify-other-creatures-by-shocking-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ability to generate electricity</a>. </p>



<p>Referred to as the main organ, the Hunter's organ, and the Sach's organ, each of these marvels of biology is packed with around 6,000 specific cells called electrolytes. </p>



<p>The function of these electrocytes? They simultaneously discharge power when the eel feels threatened or when it launches an attack on potential prey.</p>



<p>"Electric eels are like living batteries. They have stacks of modified muscle cells called electrocytes, which have both a positive and a negative side," noted Dr. Rupert Collins, Senior Curator of Fishes at the <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum, London</a>.</p>



<p>"When the cells are triggered, they discharge an electrical impulse into the surrounding water, making electric eels living, breathing generators of electricity."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-shocking-survival-mechanism">The shocking survival mechanism</h2>



<p>One might wonder how an electric eel manages to generate such potent electric shocks without zapping itself in the process. The exact mechanism still eludes scientists.</p>



<p>However, the predominant theory suggests that the water surrounding the eel likely absorbs most of the electrical current.</p>



<p>Given that each electric discharge lasts only for approximately 2 milliseconds, it's plausible that the shock isn't long enough to harm the eel itself.</p>



<p>Typically, the eels generate around 600 volts of electricity, but there have been instances of eels creating a stunning 860 volts, according to one study.</p>



<p>While fatalities from electric eel shocks are exceedingly rare, multiple shocks can trigger severe respiratory difficulties, even causing your heart to stop. </p>



<p>Coupled with the possibility of drowning, coming face-to-face with an electric eel in open water could yield deadly results. If the eel doesn't get you first, the water might grasp you in its deadly embrace thereafter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-electric-eels">Ecological role of electric eels </h2>



<p>Electric eels are not just powerful predators; they also play a crucial role in maintaining the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-ecosystems-constantly-share-energy-to-achieve-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balance of their ecosystems</a>. </p>



<p>As top predators in the waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, they help control populations of fish and other aquatic creatures. </p>



<p>By hunting with their electric discharges, they can stun multiple prey at once, efficiently capturing food while maintaining the equilibrium of the food chain.</p>



<p>In recent studies, researchers have observed that electric eels may even influence their surroundings beyond hunting. </p>



<p>The electrical fields generated by these creatures could play a role in deterring other predators or even communicating with each other in the murky waters they inhabit.</p>



<p>This interaction emphasizes their importance as not just predators but as essential contributors to their aquatic ecosystems.</p>



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



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Electric eels have a secret weapon to generate electricity

Many people might cringe at the mention of electric eels,...

<p>Stem cells in humans and animals have garnered significant attention for their ability to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. </p>



<p>From treating degenerative diseases to enabling advanced therapies, these cells have revolutionized medical research. However, stem cells are not exclusive to the animal kingdom.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-stem-cells">Plant stem cells</h2>



<p>Plants, too, possess their own remarkable stem cells, quietly driving growth and regeneration beneath their roots and shoots. </p>



<p>While plant stem cells have not received the same spotlight, they hold immense potential for advancing agriculture and food sustainability.</p>



<p>According to Huanzhong Wang, professor of plant molecular biology at the <a href="https://cahnr.uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources</a> (CAHNR), plant stem cells have significant potential to support human development - especially through enhancing food supply resilience.</p>



<p>“It’s not just humans and animals,” said Professor Wang. “Plants have stem cells too, and we should be paying attention to them.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stem-cells-and-plant-development">Stem cells and plant development </h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants</a> owe their growth and longevity to a variety of stem cells that govern cell division and differentiation. These cells, embedded deep within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autophagy-what-makes-plant-roots-grow-faster-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots</a>, shoots, and the vascular system of plants, are critical to the plant's ability to develop.</p>



<p>Professor Wang noted that this intricate network of stem cells ensures that plants can grow both upwards and downwards, forming thicker stems or trunks when necessary.</p>



<p>“Plants can grow for many, many years because different types of stem cells basically ensure they can grow up in the air and deep into the ground,” said Wang. “To grow a thicker stem or trunk, they need another type of stem cell.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-role-of-the-hva-gene">Critical role of the HVA gene</h2>



<p>While plant stem cells haven’t attracted as much attention as their biomedical counterparts, they hold incredible potential for bolstering our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-heat-is-threatening-wheat-and-the-global-food-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food supply</a>. </p>



<p>Professor Wang's research highlights how understanding these cells can lead to stronger, more resilient crops. His lab recently published a study in <em>New Phytologist</em> that describes the role of a transcription factor gene called HVA.</p>



<p>The HVA gene controls cell division in vascular stem cells, which are responsible for producing the vascular bundles that transport water and nutrients throughout the plant.</p>



<p>Overexpressing this gene dramatically increases the number of vascular bundles, boosting the plant's structural resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-agricultural-resilience">Enhancing agricultural resilience</h2>



<p>“In plants without HVA gene overexpression, we observed around five to eight vascular bundles,” said Professor Wang. “In contrast, plants with one copy of the overexpressed gene had over 20, and those with two copies had more than 50 bundles.”</p>



<p>The implications for agriculture are clear. Taller, slender crops like corn could benefit from enhanced wind resistance with the aid of additional vascular bundles.</p>



<p>“When plants grow taller, there is a risk that they could topple over,” said Wang. “Having more vascular bundles ensures the plant can stand still and resist those conditions.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-beyond-mustard-plants">Expanding research beyond mustard plants</h2>



<p>Though the research was conducted using a mustard family model organism, the HVA gene is present in various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-plant-species-remain-unphotographed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant species</a>, suggesting broad applicability. </p>



<p>Wang’s team plans to investigate other transcription factors in the same gene family to further unravel the mysteries of plant vascular development.</p>



<p>“We are interested in studying other closely related genes to find out their function,” noted Wang. “It will be interesting to study further how this gene family affects vascular development.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-stem-cells-and-sustainable-agriculture">Plant stem cells and sustainable agriculture</h2>



<p>As the global population continues to rise, the demand for sustainable and resilient food sources becomes increasingly urgent. </p>



<p>Plant stem cells, with their unique ability to drive growth and regeneration, could play a pivotal role in this effort. </p>



<p>By harnessing the regenerative power of these cells, scientists can develop crops that not only grow faster but also exhibit greater resilience to environmental stressors like drought, pests, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-how-plants-adapt-to-changing-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changing climate</a> conditions.</p>



<p>Research into plant stem cells also opens up the possibility of reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. </p>



<p>With more robust crops, farmers could see increased yields while minimizing environmental damage. This aligns with the broader movement toward sustainable farming and reducing the carbon footprint of agriculture.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.19970" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a></em>.</p>



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



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How plant stem cells could support human growth

Stem cells in humans and animals have garnered significant attention...

<p>Spending almost five decades in deep space has not been easy on NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft. Age-related issues are cropping up, including a recent clogging problem in its thrusters. </p>



<p>Now is not the time for a space probe to get 'constipated.' It's got a job to do. But not to worry, NASA engineers have stepped in to resolve the situation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-1-s-thrusters-price-of-time">Voyager 1's thrusters price of time</h2>



<p>Voyager 1's thrusters have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-spacecraft-fighting-survival-cosmic-threats-outside-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">been active for 47 years</a>, during which they've gathered a byproduct of age: silicon dioxide.</p>



<p>This resultant from a rubber diaphragm in the spacecraft's fuel tank has had the audacity to clog the fuel tubes in the thrusters, impacting their efficiency. But the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/voyager/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team at NASA</a> was not about to be defeated by some clogged tubes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-efficiency-of-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Efficiency of Voyager 1's thrusters</h2>



<p>The thrusters operate on liquid hydrazine that, once turned into gas, is released in short puffs to direct the spacecraft's antenna towards Earth. </p>



<p>If the Voyager 1's thrusters were in prime condition, about 40 of these puffs would be enough to do the job in a day. </p>



<p>They are vital, you might say, for the spacecraft to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-sending-data-to-earth-from-interstellar-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interact with Earth</a> -- to receive commands, send engineering data, and unload the precious scientific data it has been collecting in its journey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choices-ahead-with-voyager-1-thrusters">Choices ahead with Voyager 1 thrusters</h2>



<p>Voyager 1 is endowed with three sets of thrusters, two being attitude propulsion thrusters and one set being trajectory correction maneuver thrusters. In its younger years, during planetary flybys, all types were actively used. </p>



<p>But now, as Voyager 1 boldly goes where no human-made object has gone before -- out of our solar system -- the needs are simpler. Any thruster can be used to pivot the craft towards Earth.</p>



<p>In 2002, engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>) noticed clogging in the fuel tubes in use for pointing the spacecraft towards our home planet.</p>



<p>The solution was to switch to the second branch of attitude thrusters. Sixteen years later, in 2018, they had to switch again as the second branch also showed signs of clogging. </p>



<p>The choice? The trajectory correction maneuver thrusters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dilemma-of-cold-and-power">Dilemma of cold and power</h2>



<p>Switching Voyager 1's thrusters isn’t as simple as it used to be in the spacecraft due to the advanced age of the spacecraft and the resultant decrease in its power supply. </p>



<p>Along those lines, non-essential systems have been deactivated to conserve power, including some heaters, leading to the spacecraft getting colder. Operating the cold thrusters could risk damaging them beyond repair.</p>



<p>The solution? Turning on non-essential heaters to warm up the thrusters. But there's a catch. </p>



<p>Power is so limited that turning on these heaters would require shutting off something else, and everything currently in operation is essential.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-puzzle-of-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Power puzzle of Voyager 1's thrusters </h2>



<p>After ruling out switching off an operating science instrument, the engineers decided to temporarily turn off one of the spacecraft's main heaters to provide enough electricity for the non-essential heater. And it worked. </p>



<p>The thrusters returned to action, as confirmed on Aug. 27, successfully guiding Voyager 1 towards Earth.</p>



<p>"All the decisions we will have to make going forward are going to require a lot more analysis and caution than they once did," confessed Suzanne Dodd, Voyager's project manager at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-voyager-1-s-legacy">Resilience of Voyager 1's legacy</h2>



<p>Voyager 1's journey has not only been a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-messages-to-earth-from-15-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testament to the scientific and engineering prowess</a> of the late 20th century but also a marvel of the resilience embedded in legacy technology. </p>



<p>Constructed with materials and systems that predate modern advancements, Voyager 1 continues to function beyond expectations. </p>



<p>Its durability demonstrates the foresight of its initial design, which has allowed it to withstand the harsh conditions of space for decades.</p>



<p>This legacy technology, while appearing antiquated by today's standards, showcases a robustness that modern systems strive to emulate. </p>



<p>The mission's success is a reminder of the value of meticulous engineering and the enduring quest for exploration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-to-the-future">Looking to the future</h2>



<p>As Voyager 1 and its thrusters continue its solitary voyage through interstellar space, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of humanity. </p>



<p>The data it transmits back to Earth provides invaluable insights into the universe's broader realms and conditions far beyond our solar system. </p>



<p>With each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-lost-contact-with-voyager-2-spacecraft-12-billion-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transmission</a>, scientists gain a deeper understanding of cosmic phenomena, feeding curiosity and inspiration across generations.</p>



<p>Although the spacecraft's operational future is limited by its diminishing power supply, the legacy of its mission will influence future endeavors. </p>



<p>Lessons learned from Voyager 1 fuel the ambition to explore deeper into space, forever pushing the boundaries of what is possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treading-the-uncharted-voyager-1-s-thrusters">Treading the uncharted Voyager 1's thrusters</h2>



<p>Voyager 1 is now in the realm of interstellar space, far beyond the protective bubble of particles and magnetic fields created by our sun – it's uncharted territory. </p>



<p>The mission isn't over yet. The team aims to keep Voyager going as long as possible, continuing to reveal the mysteries of the interstellar environment. </p>



<p>How will it fare? Only time will tell. The universe is watching and so are we.</p>



<p>On the path of continuous discovery, the Voyager 1's and its thrusters journey stands as an epitome of the resolute human spirit, overcoming challenges and advancing knowledge in pursuit of the unfathomable cosmos. It truly is a remarkable journey.</p>



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



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Voyager 1 team accomplishes tricky thruster swap from 15 billion miles away

Spending almost five decades in deep space has not been...


<div class="vdb_player vdb_591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49"><script type="text/javascript" src="//delivery.vidible.tv/jsonp/pid=591c9e3c9efa894c3c6e150b/vid=592ddc2ca776f30d699cdab7/58d96b98cd4fed198a0d2a49.js"></script></div>
<p>WARN Tabletop Exercises</p>
