Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

Earth has never been a stranger to changes in the ice age cycle. 



Around 2.5 million years ago, the planet settled into a rhythm - glaciers advanced, then melted back, over and over. The last big freeze ended about 11,700 years ago, leaving us in a warm, stable period. But how long will this last?



If history followed its usual script, the next ice age would arrive in roughly 10,000 years. That’s what a new study suggests. A team of researchers, including scientists from UC Santa Barbara, has traced the subtle shifts in Earth’s orbit - its wobbles and tilts that are so slight they seem insignificant.



Yet, over thousands of years, these changes have rewritten the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lessons-from-the-ice-age-how-climate-change-reshapes-plant-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet’s climate</a> again and again. Their findings, published in Science, reveal a strikingly predictable pattern in Earth’s natural cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-mechanics-of-a-changing-climate">Subtle mechanics of a changing climate</h2>



The team combed through a million years of climate records, tracking how ice sheets across the Northern Hemisphere expanded and shrank. 



They compared those shifts to the temperature of deep ocean waters, which represent cold storage in terms of Earth’s climate history. Then, they lined it all up with data about variations in Earth’s orbit.



It turns out that every major climate shift has followed a script dictated by these orbital quirks.



“We found a predictable pattern over the past million years for the timing of when Earth's climate changes between glacial ‘ice ages’ and mild, warm periods like today, called interglacials,” explained <a href="https://www.geol.ucsb.edu/people/faculty/lorraine-lisiecki" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lorraine Lisiecki</a>, a professor in UCSB’s Earth Science Department.



Some orbital changes signaled the end of an ice age, while others set the stage for a new one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pattern-hidden-in-plain-sight">A pattern hidden in plain sight</h2>



Scientists have long suspected that Earth’s orbit plays a role in glacial cycles. The idea dates back over a century. But proving it has taken time. Not until the mid-1970s did data begin to confirm the connection. Even then, the details remained murky.



Now, thanks to this new study, those details are much clearer. 



“We were amazed to find such a clear imprint of the different orbital parameters on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ice-caps-may-only-exist-because-of-unusual-climate-shifts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate record</a>. It is quite hard to believe that the pattern has not been seen before,” expressed Stephen Barker, a professor at <a href="https://www.cardiff.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardiff University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-the-next-ice-age-on-hold">Is the next ice age on hold?</h2>



Looking at the past 900,000 years, the team uncovered a repeating pattern. Left to its own devices, Earth would remain in this warm interglacial period for several more millennia before the next deep freeze began.



“The pattern we found is so reproducible that we were able to make an accurate prediction of when each interglacial period of the past million years or so would occur and how long each would last,” Barker stated. This discovery confirms that climate changes over tens of thousands of years are anything but random.



But there’s a catch. This natural rhythm assumes that nothing interferes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-have-changed-the-natural-ice-age-cycle">Humans have changed the natural ice age cycle</h2>



“And because we are now living in an interglacial period – called the Holocene – we are also able to provide an initial prediction of when our climate might return to a glacial state,” noted Chronis Tzedakis, a professor at University College London.



However, there is a problem. Human activity has already thrown the system off course.



“But such a transition to a glacial state in 10,000 years’ time is very unlikely to happen because human emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere have already diverted the climate from its natural course, with longer-term impacts into the future,” added Gregor Knorr from the Alfred Wegener Institute.



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



The research team isn’t stopping here. They plan to refine their predictions, calibrating past climate changes to create a clearer picture of what <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-of-life-ice-ages-gave-evolution-a-kick-start/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s climate</a> should look like over the next 10,000 to 20,000 years. 



Combined with modern climate models, this data could reveal the full extent of human influence on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disastrous-climate-changes-of-the-last-ice-age-could-happen-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a>.



“Now we know that climate is largely predictable over these long timescales, we can actually use past changes to inform us about what could happen in the future,” Barker said. “This is something we couldn’t do before with the level of confidence that our new analysis provides.”



Understanding these cycles matters. It’s not just about predicting the next ice age - it’s about understanding how our choices today may reshape the climate for millennia to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp3491" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Will Earth go through another ice age?

Earth has never been a stranger to changes in the...

Aging affects every part of the body, but the brain holds the key to how well we navigate our later years. Some people maintain sharp cognition well into their 80s and 90s, while others experience rapid mental decline much earlier. Understanding why this happens has long been a challenge for scientists.



A remarkable study has now introduced a revolutionary way to measure how fast the brain is aging with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Unlike previous methods that provided a single estimate of brain age, this approach calculates the rate of decline over time.



By tracking how quickly the brain changes between two MRI scans, researchers can determine an individual’s "pace of aging."



“This is a novel measurement that could change the way we track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parenting-may-help-keep-the-brain-younger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a> both in the research lab and in the clinic. Knowing how fast one’s brain is aging can be powerful," said Andrei Irimia, an associate professor at the <a href="https://gero.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biological-age-vs-chronological-age">Biological age vs. chronological age</h2>



Chronological age measures time since birth, but biological age reflects how fast an individual’s body and brain are aging. 



Some people experience aging at a slower or faster rate than their peers. Earlier methods only provided a static snapshot of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-pass-down-x-chromosomes-that-accelerate-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> age, missing important information about ongoing changes.



The new technique addresses this gap by analyzing two MRI scans from the same person at different times. By comparing these scans, researchers can calculate the rate of change and determine whether someone’s brain is aging faster or slower than expected.



“The pace of brain aging conveys the rate of aging-related alteration in neurobiological system integrity,” wrote the researchers. “For example, faster pace reflects faster adverse cognitive changes contributing to morbidity and mortality.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limits-of-blood-based-aging-tests">Limits of blood-based aging tests</h2>



Some studies have attempted to measure biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-25-years-of-research-revealed-about-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> through blood samples. However, this method does not provide an accurate picture of brain aging.



“The barrier between the brain and the bloodstream prevents blood cells from crossing into the brain, such that a blood sample from one’s arm does not directly reflect methylation and other aging-related processes in the brain,” explained Professor Irimia.



To overcome this challenge, researchers at the University of Southern California trained their AI model using MRI scans from thousands of cognitively normal adults. The model was then tested on independent groups, including patients with Alzheimer’s disease.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-the-pace-of-brain-aging">Measuring the pace of brain aging</h2>



This new approach examines changes between two MRI scans over time. Instead of estimating brain age at a single point, the AI system determines how much aging has occurred between scans and calculates the rate of decline.



The AI model achieved a mean absolute error of just 0.16 years when predicting brain aging in cognitively normal adults. In comparison, the best traditional model had an error of 1.85 years - more than ten times worse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-reveals-differences-in-brain-aging">AI reveals differences in brain aging</h2>



Beyond tracking the pace of aging, the researchers identified key differences between sexes, age groups, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-reveals-the-secret-to-keeping-your-brain-young/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive conditions</a>.



“The 3D-CNN also generates interpretable ‘saliency maps,’ which indicate the specific brain regions that are most important for determining the pace of aging,” said Paul Bogdan, associate professor at the USC <a href="https://viterbischool.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Viterbi School of Engineering</a>.



For women, brain aging was most prominent in regions such as the right precentral gyrus, superior parietal lobules, and precunei. Men, however, exhibited more aging-related changes in the left transverse frontopolar gyrus and right supramarginal gyrus.



People in their 50s showed aging in different regions compared to those in their 70s. Younger individuals had more decline in the left lateral temporal lobe and right medial occipital lobe. Meanwhile, those in their 70s experienced faster aging in the right central and postcentral gyri.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-brain-aging-to-cognitive-decline">Linking brain aging to cognitive decline</h2>



The study also found that individuals with faster brain aging had greater declines in cognitive function over time.



“Rates of brain aging are correlated significantly with changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-hotspot-found-in-the-brain-may-hold-the-key-to-longevity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive function</a>,” Irimia said. “So, if you have a high rate of brain aging, you’re more likely to have a high rate of degradation in cognitive function, including memory, executive speed, executive function, and processing speed.”



This was particularly evident in scores from the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS13). People whose brains were aging more quickly showed greater errors in cognitive tests, indicating a strong link between brain structure and cognitive function.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-at-risk-individuals">Identifying at-risk individuals</h2>



Perhaps the most significant finding was that the pace of brain aging could predict future cognitive impairment. Among the study participants, those who later developed cognitive decline had a significantly higher rate of brain aging than those who remained cognitively normal.



“The alignment of these measures with cognitive test results indicates that the framework may serve as an early biomarker of neurocognitive decline,” Bogdan said. “Moreover, it demonstrates its applicability in both cognitively normal individuals and those with cognitive impairment.”



Early identification of at-risk individuals could allow for preventive measures, such as lifestyle changes or medical interventions, before symptoms appear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-brain-health-monitoring">Future of brain health monitoring</h2>



Irimia believes this model could help detect brain aging before cognitive symptoms emerge. With new Alzheimer’s treatments available, early intervention may be crucial in improving outcomes.



“One thing that my lab is very interested in is estimating risk for Alzheimer’s; we’d like to one day be able to say, ‘Right now, it looks like this person has a 30% risk for Alzheimer’s.’ We’re not there yet, but we’re working on it,” Irimia said. 



“I think this kind of measure will be very helpful to produce variables that are prognostic and can help to forecast Alzheimer’s risk. That would be really powerful, especially as we start developing potential drugs for prevention.”



Since men and women showed different patterns of brain aging, this model could also help researchers understand why they face different risks for neurodegenerative diseases.



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



The study had some limitations. Because it calculates an average pace of aging over a set period, it may not capture recent changes in brain health. 



Additionally, the model performed better for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-sleep-habits-may-age-the-brain-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitively</a> normal individuals than for those with Alzheimer’s, likely because it was trained on healthy adults.



Future studies with larger and more diverse populations could improve the model’s accuracy. However, even with its limitations, this research represents a major step forward in understanding how brain aging progresses over time.



By focusing on how fast the brain is changing rather than just its current state, this research could lead to more personalized medical interventions. Maintaining brain health isn’t just about age - it’s about how quickly aging is taking place.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413442122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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AI can detect if your brain is aging too quickly

Aging affects every part of the body, but the brain...

Robots are learning in a way that was once thought to be exclusive to humans - by watching themselves.



A recent study shows that robots can use simple video footage to understand their own structure and movement. This ability allows them to adjust their actions and even recover from damage without human any intervention.



Researchers at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> have developed a method that enables robots to achieve a deeper understanding of their own bodies. 



Instead of relying on engineers to create detailed simulations, these robots watch their own movements, using a regular camera, and teach themselves how their bodies work.



By developing "self-awareness," these machines could revolutionize automation, making robots more independent, adaptable, and efficient in real-world environments like homes, factories, and disaster zones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-observation">Learning from observation</h2>



"Like humans learning to dance by watching their mirror reflection, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-can-now-learn-to-accomplish-any-task-by-watching-videos-or-observing-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robots now use raw video</a> to build kinematic self-awareness," explained study lead author Yuhang Hu, a doctoral student at the Creative Machines Lab at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a>.



"Our goal is a robot that understands its own body, adapts to damage, and learns new skills without constant human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-human-bond-helps-guide-social-robot-programming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">programming</a>."



Traditionally, robots are first trained in digital simulations. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/real-life-star-trek-holodeck-created-for-robots-using-chatgpt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">simulations</a> help the robots understand movement before they are deployed in the real world. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/robots_learn-to-move_mirror-watching-themselves_credit-Columbia_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/robots_learn-to-move_mirror-watching-themselves_credit-Columbia_1s.webp" alt="A robot observes its reflection in a mirror, learning its own morphology and kinematics for autonomous self-simulation. The process highlights the intersection of vision-based learning and robotics, where the robot refines its movements and predicts its spatial motion through self-observation. Credit: Jane Nisselson/Columbia Engineering" class="wp-image-1961049"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A robot observes its reflection in a mirror, learning its own morphology and kinematics for autonomous self-simulation. The process highlights the intersection of vision-based learning and robotics, where the robot refines its movements and predicts its spatial motion through self-observation. Credit: Jane Nisselson/Columbia Engineering</figcaption></figure>



“The better and more realistic the simulator, the easier it is for the robot to make the leap from simulation into reality,” said Professor Hod Lipson, chair of the Department of&nbsp;Mechanical Engineering.



However, designing these simulations is a time-consuming and complex task that often requires expert knowledge.



The researchers found a way to bypass this step by allowing robots to build their own simulations based on input from watching themselves move.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-awareness-in-robots">Self-awareness in robots</h2>



The study’s breakthrough came from using deep neural networks to infer 3D movement from 2D video. 



This means the robot can understand its own shape and how it moves, without needing sophisticated sensors. 



More importantly, it can detect changes in its body - such as a bent arm - and adjust its actions accordingly. This kind of adaptability has real-world benefits.



"Imagine a robot vacuum or a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-glimpse-of-the-future-robots-in-nursing-homes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">personal assistant bot</a> that notices its arm is bent after bumping into furniture," said Hu. 



"Instead of breaking down or needing repair, it watches itself, adjusts how it moves, and keeps working. This could make home robots more reliable - no constant reprogramming required."



In industrial settings, this capability could be just as valuable. For example, a robot arm in a car factory could get knocked out of alignment and need to be readjusted.



"Instead of halting production, it could watch itself, tweak its movements, and get back to welding, which would cut downtime and costs. This adaptability could make manufacturing more resilient," noted Hu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-robots-need-self-awareness">Why robots need self-awareness </h2>



As robots become more integrated into everyday life, their ability to operate independently will be essential. 



“We humans cannot afford to constantly baby these robots, repair broken parts and adjust performance. Robots need to learn to take care of themselves if they are going to become truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-with-space-to-think-will-become-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">useful</a>,” said Professor Lipson. “That’s why self-modeling is so important.”



This study builds on two decades of research at Columbia University. During this time, the researchers have been developing ways for robots to create self-models using cameras and other sensors.



In 2006, their robots could only generate simple stick-figure-like simulations. A decade later, they advanced to higher-fidelity models using multiple cameras. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-self-sufficient-robots">The future of self-sufficient robots</h2>



Now, for the first time, a robot has managed to build a complete kinematic model of itself using just a short video clip from a single standard camera - input that is similar to looking in a mirror.



“We humans are intuitively aware of our body; we can imagine ourselves in the future and visualize the consequences of our actions well before we perform those actions in reality,” explained Professor Lipson.



“Ultimately, we would like to imbue robots with a similar ability to imagine themselves, because once you can imagine yourself in the future, there is no limit to what you can do.”



The ability of robots to self-model and adapt is a significant step forward. It could lead to more resilient machines that require less human oversight, and pave the way for smarter, more independent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-robots-now-with-added-common-sense-and-ability-to-self-correct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robots in homes</a>, factories, and beyond.



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Watch the robot learn by watching itself in the mirror <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEWQatU5JIw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">by clicking here...</a>



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42256-025-01006-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Machine Intelligence</a>.



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Robots can now learn like humans, using self-awareness

Robots are learning in a way that was once thought...

In the wild, every meal is a gamble. Animals like lizards must constantly weigh&nbsp;their&nbsp;options - play it safe or take a risk. The wrong choice could mean starvation. But the right one? A feast.



For some creatures, survival is about consistency. They take the sure thing, never gambling on an uncertain future. Others, when faced with starvation, throw caution to the wind.



A recent study led by Maria Thaker, professor at the Centre for Ecological Sciences (<a href="https://ces.iisc.ac.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CES</a>) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), reveals that certain tropical lizards fall into the latter category. Under the strain of hunger, they roll the dice - risking it all for a chance at a bigger meal.



The study challenges a long-standing belief. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-lizards-struggle-as-global-warming-raises-their-energy-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reptiles</a> have often been dismissed as slow, instinct-driven animals. But this research suggests otherwise. These creatures, despite their cold blood, are surprisingly calculating. They don’t just react; they strategize.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunger-makes-lizards-take-risks">Hunger makes lizards take risks </h2>



Scientists call it the “risk-sensitive foraging hypothesis.” The idea is simple: hunger changes how animals approach risk. When full, they opt for reliable food sources, even if they’re small. When starving, they chase bigger, uncertain rewards.



Birds and mammals have demonstrated this behavior. But reptiles? They’ve largely been overlooked. After all, many can slow their metabolism and enter a state of torpor when food is scarce. But tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reptiles-provide-new-clues-about-the-diets-of-extinct-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizards</a> don’t have that luxury.



“Reptiles can slow down their metabolism a lot. So, in food-scarce times like winter, they go into torpor (hibernation) to avoid starving to death,” explained Professor Thaker.



“In the tropics, however, reptiles are exposed to warm temperatures all year round and cannot slow their metabolism down enough to get through tough (food lean) times. We expected that lizards in the tropics should have evolved the ability to assess food options, because if they don’t, they may risk starving to death.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-starving-lizards-make-riskier-choices">Starving lizards make riskier choices</h2>



To test this, the researchers turned to the rock agama (Psammophilus dorsalis), a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deforestation-threatens-the-future-of-8-in-10-lizards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizard</a> commonly found in and around cities like Bengaluru. These small, fast-moving reptiles navigate both natural and urban landscapes, making them ideal for studying adaptive behavior.



The team devised a straightforward test. First, they split the lizards into two groups. One group received plenty of food, while the other received nothing for 48 hours. 



Next, both groups were presented with a choice. One option offered two mealworms, guaranteed. The other was a gamble - either zero or four mealworms. Would hunger change their decisions?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-taking-lizards">Risk-taking lizards</h2>



The results showed that well-fed lizards stuck to the safe bet - two mealworms, no surprises. But the starved lizards? They took the risk, picking the unpredictable option far more often.



“We found that well-fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-lizard-day-2024-celebrating-our-scaly-companions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizards</a> played it safe, opting for the guaranteed two mealworms option,” said study lead author and PhD student Avik Banerjee.



“On the other hand, starved lizards took greater risks, frequently choosing the variable option which has the potential to get them four mealworms. Remarkably, both groups of lizards ended up with similar net food gains by the end of the trials, indicating that the different strategies worked.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-survival-strategy-not-a-fluke">A survival strategy, not a fluke</h2>



The study reshapes how we see reptile decision-making. Unlike their cold-climate cousins, which rely on metabolic slowdowns, tropical lizards must stay active. Their survival depends on making smart, timely choices.



And this goes beyond instinct. The lizards remembered their options, assessed the risks, and made choices based on their needs. That’s strategy, not reflex.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lizards-remember-past-choices">Lizards remember past choices</h2>



For decades, intelligence has been linked primarily to mammals and birds. But <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lizards-rely-on-trees-so-what-happens-when-they-disappear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a> are proving to be far more complex than previously assumed.



“We think that humans have an excellent ability to assess our environment and take calculated risks when needed. But lizards can too,” said Professor Thaker.



“The fact that the rock agamas can remember different options and make appropriate choices to secure their survival is rather cool. We are surrounded by very clever and calculating animals.”



Lizards, often overlooked, might just be thinking more than we ever gave them credit for. And if they can weigh risks and rewards - who knows what else they’re capable of?



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0628" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biology Letters</a>.



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Lizards take bigger risks when they are hungry

In the wild, every meal is a gamble. Animals like...

Finding time to rest often takes a back seat with our fast-paced lifestyles. Yet, a recent study shows how quickly sleep deprivation can lead to hidden health problems.



The research suggests that even a single day of poor sleep can affect the immune system in ways that raise inflammation. 



The findings come from Dr. Fatema Al-Rashed, lead researcher at the <a href="http://dasmaninstitute.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dasman Diabetes Institute</a> in Kuwait City, who worked with a team to uncover connections between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-helps-prevent-unwanted-memories-from-popping-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disrupted rest</a> and physical health.



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



Many people focus on dieting or exercise without realizing sleep is just as important. A full night of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-sleep-patterns-affect-your-health-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rest</a> gives the body time to restore its cells.



A lack of quality sleep can leave the brain and body under pressure. This stress can spill over into metabolic pathways that help regulate appetite and energy.



Researchers have observed that loss of sleep may push the body to release more cortisol, a hormone tied to stress responses. Elevated cortisol levels can drive up inflammation if this continues for prolonged periods.



Another issue is that poor rest can weaken the body’s defenses against infections. When energy is in short supply, the immune response may not be as efficient.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-sleepless-night-alters-immune-cells">One sleepless night alters immune cells</h2>



The scientists noted that missing one 24-hour period of sleep could shift the makeup of certain monocytes, which regulate inflammation. This shift matched what was seen in individuals with obesity.



Monocytes are known as the body’s first responders when a threat appears. One type, known as non-classical monocytes, became more common in those who did not sleep.



These cells can ramp up pro-inflammatory signals, raising concerns about ongoing health effects. If this pattern becomes routine, it might open the door to lingering problems.



Experts emphasize that rest is a key factor in balancing immune cell populations. Small tweaks in a person’s daily routine might keep these changes in check.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-poor-sleep-and-long-term-health-issues">Poor sleep and long-term health issues</h2>



Prolonged poor sleep might make the body more vulnerable to metabolic disorders. Those who consistently lose rest may struggle with weight management, insulin regulation, and stable blood pressure.



Certain daily habits, like screen time before bed, can steal hours that could be spent recharging. Many devices also emit light that signals the brain to stay awake.



Work schedules and social commitments sometimes disrupt natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep rhythms</a>. Over time, these disturbances add up and may contribute to chronic issues.



"This disruption in sleep has profound implications for immune health and overall well-being," said Dr. Al-Rashed. She noted that modern lifestyles often clash with the body’s need for consistent rest.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-sleep-changes-improve-overall-health">Small sleep changes improve overall health</h2>



The research team hopes to pinpoint how modest changes in rest might help curb disease risk. "We aim for this research to drive policies and strategies that recognize the critical role of sleep in public health," said Dr. Al-Rashed.



Community interventions could nudge people toward better sleep habits. Even simple actions like placing a limit on nighttime device use might spark improvements.



More comprehensive guidelines might come from health authorities who see a link between quality sleep and national well-being. Some public health campaigns are already highlighting the importance of regular sleep.



Employers may consider flexible shifts or designated rest areas to accommodate workers with hectic schedules. Such steps could ease the strain on employees juggling multiple responsibilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-lifestyle-factors">Exploring lifestyle factors</h2>



Foods high in sugar or caffeine can disturb restful nights. Eating a balanced dinner earlier in the evening is often easier on the digestive system.



Bright screens from phones, TVs, or computers can trick the brain into thinking it is still daytime. This effect can reduce melatonin secretion, which helps maintain the body’s natural clock.



Regular physical activity often helps individuals nod off more easily. However, high-intensity workouts late at night might boost alertness instead of promoting calm.



Managing stress through simple relaxation exercises, such as mindful breathing, can prepare the body for sleep. A calmer state often leads to fewer midnight awakenings.



A comfortable bedroom environment with minimal noise supports deeper rest. Slightly lowering the thermostat might make it easier to settle down.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-for-better-sleep-and-health">Solutions for better sleep and health</h2>



Younger groups are particularly vulnerable to late-night schedules. Some schools have considered adjusting start times to align with <a href="https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circadian rhythms</a> in teens.



Travelers who regularly cross time zones also experience disruptions that can harm their overall wellness. Quick fixes like short naps sometimes help, but consistent strategies are better for lasting relief.



Future studies may explore how small disruptions in rest, such as pulling an all-nighter once a week, stack up over longer stretches. Researchers want to see if targeted interventions can offset these irregularities.



Some scientists envision collaborations with technology developers to reduce nighttime screen impact. By supporting balanced habits, society might ward off the hidden risks linked to missed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-timing-has-a-powerful-effect-on-our-mood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>.



The study is published in <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jimmunol/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jimmun/vkae016/8037869" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of Immunology</a>.



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One night of lost sleep can trigger hidden health issues

Finding time to rest often takes a back seat with...

More than 99% of birds can fly, but some species have lost this ability over time. Penguins, ostriches, and kiwis evolved into flightless forms, adapting to their specific environments. 



A recent study published in the journal Evolution examines how birds transition from flight to flightlessness. 



The researchers compared the feathers and bodies of flightless birds with their closest flying relatives, identifying which traits change first.



These findings provide insights into evolutionary processes and help determine whether extinct birds were flightless.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-some-birds-stop-flying">Why some birds stop flying</h2>



All <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-evolution-timeline-pushed-back-20-million-years-by-baminornis-zhenghensis-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> that are flightless today descended from ancestors that could fly.



“Going from something that can't fly to flying is quite the engineering challenge, but going from something that can fly to not flying is rather easy,” noted Evan Saitta, a research associate at the <a href="https://www.fieldmuseum.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Field Museum</a> in Chicago and lead author of the study.



Birds often lose the ability to fly when they settle in predator-free islands. Without evolutionary pressure to escape threats, they gradually adapt to a ground-based lifestyle. Another common reason for flight loss is a shift to semi-aquatic living. 



Penguins, for instance, “fly” underwater using their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-birds-brains-evolved-to-enable-them-to-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wings</a>, leading to significant changes in their feathers and skeletons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flight-loss-in-modern-birds">Flight loss in modern birds</h2>



Saitta, primarily a paleontologist, took advantage of the Field Museum’s vast bird collections. 



“I suddenly had access to all these modern birds, and it made me wonder, ‘What happens when a bird loses the ability to fly?’” 



Measuring various feather characteristics, Saitta compared preserved skins of 30 flightless species and their closest flying relatives. He also examined more distant species to expand the dataset.



Previous studies show when different flightless birds diverged from their flying ancestors. Ostriches lost flight much earlier than the Fuegian steamer duck. Their feathers reflect this difference. 



“Ostriches have been flightless for so long that their feathers are no longer optimized for being aerodynamic,” said Saitta. Their long, shaggy feathers serve different purposes, such as insulation and display.



In contrast, the Fuegian steamer duck, which lost flight more recently, retains feathers similar to those of flying ducks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feather-evolution-after-flight-loss">Feather evolution after flight loss</h2>



Saitta was surprised at how long flightless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-wings-inspire-improvements-in-airplane-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> retained flight-adapted feathers. Logically, one would expect unnecessary feather traits to change quickly. However, his postdoctoral advisor Peter Makovicky offered another explanation.



“Pete pointed out that when trying to understand why a modern bird looks the way it does, you can’t just think about natural selection or relaxation thereof. You have to also consider developmental constraints,” said Saitta.



Feathers develop in a strict sequence that is difficult to alter. When birds lose flight, their feather features disappear in the reverse order they evolved.



Feather evolution follows a predictable pattern. Flight feathers first evolved in dinosaurs and became increasingly complex. When a bird loses flight, these adaptations vanish in reverse order. 



Some recent features, like asymmetric flight feathers, disappear quickly. However, fundamental feather structures take much longer to change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skeleton-changes-occur-first">Skeleton changes occur first </h2>



Saitta and his team also found that certain body features change more quickly than feathers. 



“The first things to change when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/songbirds-talk-to-each-other-during-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> lose flight, possibly even before the flight feathers become symmetrical, is the proportion of their wings and their tails. We therefore see skeletal changes and also a change in overall body mass,” explained Saitta.



Skeleton changes occur before feather modifications because bones require more energy to grow. Evolution prioritizes reducing these costs first. 



“Let’s say a bird species lands on an island where they are able to safely live on the ground and don’t need to fly anymore. The first things to go are going to be these big, expensive bones and muscles, but feathers are cheap, so there’s less active selection to change them,” said Saitta.



Maintaining a flight-ready skeleton is a larger evolutionary burden than retaining unnecessary feathers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossilized-flightless-birds">Fossilized flightless birds</h2>



This study aids paleontologists who study fossilized birds and feathered dinosaurs.



“Flight didn’t evolve overnight, and flight, or at least gliding, was possibly lost many times in extinct species, just as in surviving bird lineages. Our paper helps show the order in which birds’ bodies reflect those changes,” said Saitta.



Fossilized feathers alone may not indicate whether an ancient bird could fly. Instead, researchers should first examine body mass and wing proportions. 



These traits change before feathers do. If skeletal features suggest flight loss, feather asymmetry can provide further confirmation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-research-on-flight-loss">Past research on flight loss</h2>



Saitta’s study aligns with earlier research on feather changes after flight loss. 



“The good news is that because I came at this question from a different angle, we got results that are very consistent with a lot of the previous research, but I think maybe a little bit broader than if I had approached the question with a more specific focus,” said Saitta.



By analyzing both skeletal and feather changes, this research offers a more complete understanding of how and why birds lose the ability to fly. It also provides valuable tools for identifying flightlessness in extinct species, adding another layer to the study of avian evolution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/evolut/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/evolut/qpaf020/7997201?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolution</a>.



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Why some birds lose the ability to fly

More than 99% of birds can fly, but some species...

A giant iceberg is drifting from the icy edges of Antarctica, and experts warn that this massive chunk is just one more sign of a changing climate.



As temperatures rise, the formation of these migrating ice islands is happening more frequently. Experts wonder how much bigger these chunks could get and what that means for ocean life.



Dr. Peter Bijl at <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> leads a team investigating iceberg <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-breaks-free-from-ocean-cyclone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">routes</a> to understand how these icy remnants of the past might affect our future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-antarctica-s-icebergs-break-away">Why Antarctica's icebergs break away</h2>



Icebergs are more than just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-may-crash-into-a-wildlife-sanctuary/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">floating ice</a>. They form when large chunks of glaciers break away from the main ice mass and drift into open water.



Meteorological shifts can accelerate this breakage, leading to towering shapes that can stretch for miles. During warmer periods in Earth’s distant past, these frosty giants also broke free and ventured far beyond the polar circle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-missing-link-from-the-past">A missing link from the past</h2>



During the late Eocene epoch, Earth was generally warmer than it is today. Scientists suspect that some regions near the present-day Weddell Sea still managed to generate icy blocks that traveled vast distances.



Evidence of these journeys emerged when ancient ice-rafted debris (IRD) was found near South Orkney. IRD refers to rock fragments carried by drifting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-icebergs-are-not-the-main-threat-to-antarcticas-stability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ice</a>, which later settles on the ocean floor as the ice melts away.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-details-about-iceberg-survival">New details about iceberg survival </h2>



Master’s student Mark Elbertsen used computer simulations to uncover surprising details about iceberg survival during those warmer intervals. He showed that some areas of the Weddell Sea likely remained cold enough for medium-sized bergs to stay intact and reach distant spots.



“The high melt rates under the Eocene warm climate require a minimum initial iceberg mass on the order of 100 Mt,” wrote Elbertsen and colleagues. By meeting that threshold, these drifting blocks could endure the journey across warmer waters and still leave traces in places like South Orkney.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-iceberg-breakaways">Antarctica’s iceberg breakaways</h2>



<a href="https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/land-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientists</a> now wonder if the same conditions are appearing again, but for a different reason. Today, human-driven warming threatens to shift the balance between ice accumulation and melt in Antarctica even faster.



With more calving events on the horizon, the Southern Ocean faces a flood of fresh water that might affect deep ocean circulation. 



Experts also warn that this influx could influence how carbon is stored in the seas, potentially speeding up broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-largest-iceberg-a23a-undergoing-major-erosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate shifts</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icebergs-and-ocean-currents">Icebergs and ocean currents</h2>



Ocean currents are essential for distributing heat, nutrients, and oxygen around the globe. If currents weaken or alter their path, marine habitats could be disrupted, impacting both wildlife and human communities.



Researchers continue to piece together how these enormous chunks of ice can not only shape the present but also offer a preview of future conditions. By tracking the flow of fresh water, they hope to reveal the ocean’s response to rising temperatures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-antarctica-s-icebergs-affect-wildlife">Antarctica's icebergs affect wildlife</h2>



Species like penguins, seals, and whales rely on stable conditions in the Southern Ocean. Large icebergs can disrupt or enhance their feeding grounds, depending on where the ice settles or breaks apart.



An iceberg that runs aground may stir up nutrients and plankton, supporting local fish populations. Some scientists see these drifting masses as both hazards and possible lifelines in regions struggling with warming waters.



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



Ongoing climate models suggest that Antarctic glaciation events will intensify if warming continues at its current pace. This research feeds into broader global models that attempt to predict sea-level rise and possible disruptions to ocean circulation.



Geological records serve as clues to how these processes might unfold. The information gleaned from past iceberg drifts helps researchers anticipate what new threats could emerge as conditions keep changing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icebergs-influence-ocean-chemistry">Icebergs influence ocean chemistry</h2>



Iceberg studies across multiple eras highlight the importance of understanding how drifting ice shapes ocean chemistry, wildlife, and global currents. These insights remind us that changes at the poles have consequences that ripple across the planet.



Satellite monitoring has made it easier to track icebergs as they drift across thousands of miles in the Southern Ocean. Mariners rely on up-to-date advisories to avoid collisions and chart safe passages through changing waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-new-waters">Navigating new waters</h2>



Tourism in polar regions has grown steadily, with cruise ships now venturing closer to icy coastlines. This creates fresh opportunities for exploration, but also raises concerns about accidents in remote areas and potential harm to fragile ecosystems.



In light of these realities, scientists emphasize that understanding iceberg <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-drop-to-record-lows-on-both-poles-as-scientists-issue-warning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> is more than an academic exercise. It holds tangible value for industries, communities, and marine life that depend on stable waters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-managing-iceberg-risks">Managing iceberg risks</h2>



Experts believe that international cooperation is crucial to handle any potential iceberg-related hazards. By sharing data and coordinated research efforts, nations can prepare for sudden shifts in these floating giants’ paths and mitigate possible risks.



Gaining new insights from ancient ice can also spark solutions for a future that may see even larger calving events. Mapping out those possibilities could support better planning for coastal communities worldwide.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://cp.copernicus.org/articles/21/441/2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate of the Past</a>.



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Massive iceberg that broke away from Antarctica sparks concerns

A giant iceberg is drifting from the icy edges of...

Asteroid Dimorphos is a small space rock that orbits a larger companion. It gained attention when NASA investigated ways to alter its trajectory in case it ever threatened Earth.



The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (<a href="https://dart.jhuapl.edu/">DART</a>) hammered Dimorphos on September 26, 2022, marking a critical attempt to see if an oncoming <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-impact-carved-massive-canyons-on-the-moon-in-minutes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threat</a> could be diverted. The success of this mission offered a glimpse into strategies that could be used to avert future dangers.



Scientists from <a href="https://www.polimi.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Politecnico di Milano</a> and the <a href="https://www.gatech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Institute of Technology</a> have recently analyzed the outcome of the DART mission. Their findings are published in two papers - one led by Professor Fabio Ferrari and the other coordinated by Professor Masatoshi Hirabayashi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-asteroid-deflection-test">NASA's asteroid deflection test</h2>



The test was an example of kinetic deflection, a method that uses a high-speed crash to change an asteroid’s path. The experts examined how momentum transfer occurs when a spacecraft strikes a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-asteroid-2024-yr4-has-a-chance-of-hitting-earth-in-2032/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">target</a>.



The collision threw out clouds of ejecta, an event that left behind scattered debris in space. The researchers could see how this ejected material took shape, thanks to observations from the Hubble Space Telescope.



“We used Hubble Space Telescope's images and numerical simulations to quantify a viable mechanism of the ejecta evolution and successfully estimated ejected particles' mass, velocity, and size," explained Professor Ferrari.



"We also found complex interactions of such particles with the asteroid system and solar radiation pressure, i.e., sunlight pushing ejecta particles."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-asteroid-shape-affects-deflection">How asteroid shape affects deflection</h2>



Curved surfaces direct momentum in different directions. This can reduce the overall push effect of the collision, and leave part of an asteroid’s spin or speed unchanged.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56010-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investigations</a> revealed how the curvature of Dimorphos could have altered the spray of material that resulted from the collision. If the surface is not flat, the debris scatters in unexpected ways.



“If the impact is large, more ejecta fly out of the surface but are more affected by surface tilts. This process makes the ejecta deviate from the ideal direction, reducing the asteroid push,” explained Professor Hirabayashi.



Scientists aim to gauge how shape, structure, and spin all interact. Any miscalculation could lead to a deflection that falls short.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-near-earth-objects">Strategies for near-Earth objects </h2>



The researchers explored the idea of using several lower-energy impactors, especially for near-Earth objects with uneven shapes. This approach can increase the odds of success if one shot misses the ideal spot.



Scientists emphasize that hypervelocity collisions might behave differently on an oddly shaped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-could-be-pushed-into-a-collision-course-with-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rock</a> than on a smooth surface. This difference can lower the efficiency of a single, high-powered strike.



Each mission needs careful preparation, including reconnaissance to help identify the best angles and times for deflection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-earth-from-asteroid-strikes">Protecting Earth from asteroid strikes</h2>



Some experts see these methods being used for other cosmic bodies. They point out that accurate data on shape and composition help refine any defense design.



Asteroid collisions are part of space’s natural cycle and have been occurring since the universe formed. Ancient craters on Earth and the Moon are relics of much bigger strike events that might happen again.



Experts note that what seems like a big crash may not always yield the desired change. Relying on one massive impact can come with risks if the body has unpredictable contours.



“Sending multiple smaller impactors not only results in a higher asteroid push but also potentially saves operational cost and increases tactical flexibility for deflection,” said Professor Hirabayashi. Careful testing is essential before rolling out these solutions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-dimorphos">Lessons from Dimorphos</h2>



Experts see a strong case for more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-ingredients-building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroid-bennu-dust-sample/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">missions</a> that study small bodies up close. Future spacecraft will likely gather details on topography and internal makeup before any deflection is attempted.



Lessons from Dimorphos will guide the planning of new solutions. These steps might determine how we react to unforeseen cosmic hazards in future.



Researchers continue building on the data from NASA’s test. Their aim is to ensure that Earth has a plan if a wandering rock ever sets its sights on us.



The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56010-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> are both published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/ncomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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What we learned from NASA's asteroid deflection test

Asteroid Dimorphos is a small space rock that orbits a...

Bigger creatures have long baffled scientists who study cancer. For decades, a widespread view called Peto’s paradox suggested that an animal’s size had no bearing on cancer risk. But now, a recent study is challenging that idea.



The researchers examined data from 263 species spanning amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles. They found a clear connection between bigger bodies and higher cancer rates, discrediting Peto’s paradox after 45-years.



The study was led by Professor Chris Venditti from the University of Reading, in collaboration with experts at University College London and The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-size-affects-cancer-risk">Animal size affects cancer risk </h2>



it was previously believed that larger animals had somehow avoided the increased cancer risk associated with more cell divisions. However, this new research shows that size does matter when it comes to cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-cells-collaborate-to-survive-challenging-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">likelihood</a>.



“Everyone knows the myth that elephants are afraid of mice, but when it comes to cancer risk, mice are the ones who have less to fear," said Professor Venditti.



"We’ve shown that larger species like elephants do face higher cancer rates - exactly what you’d expect given they have so many more cells that could go wrong."



Past assumptions relied on limited samples and anecdotal observations. This broader dataset allowed scientists to see patterns that were previously overlooked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-rates-in-birds-and-reptiles">Cancer rates in birds and reptiles </h2>



Birds and reptiles can keep growing throughout their lives. This continuous growth made them valuable subjects for comparing cancer rates across distinct life cycles.



Larger birds, such as certain parrots, showed higher prevalence of tumors than smaller counterparts. Yet some outliers, like the <a href="https://www.bushheritage.org.au/species/budgerigars#:~:text=The%20Budgerigar%20is%20a%20colourful,weigh%2030%20to%2040%20grams." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">common budgie</a> (Melopsittacus undulatus), had significantly higher rates than researchers had predicted.



Reptiles displayed a similar pattern, with bigger species experiencing more frequent malignancies. This consistency underlines the role of body size in shaping cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-cancer-cells-have-a-molecular-switch-that-could-be-rewired-to-behave-normally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerability</a> across different branches of the animal kingdom.



Advanced methods helped confirm these insights, offering a more precise look at how growth patterns connect to cancer risk. The researchers accounted for each species’ unique evolution, revealing unexpected similarities among distant groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-evolved-defenses-to-cancer">Elephants evolved defenses to cancer</h2>



Elephants stood out as a prime example of animals with ample body mass yet moderate tumor rates. To clarify this paradox, scientists point to tumor-suppressor genes that help keep cell growth under control.



Elephants share a cancer risk comparable to tigers, which are only a fraction of their size. The difference suggests that evolving larger bodies can go hand-in-hand with specialized protective mechanisms.



“When species needed to grow larger, they also evolved remarkable defenses against cancer. Elephants shouldn’t fear their size - they developed sophisticated biological tools to keep cancer in check,” said study co-author Dr. Joanna Baker.



Earlier assumptions missed this subtle adaptation. Now, experts see how evolution crafts various genetic safeguards that allow a massive animal to thrive without facing sky-high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumor rates</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-winners-and-losers">Unusual winners and losers</h2>



Some smaller species show unexpectedly high cancer rates, while others barely register the disease. 



The budgie’s elevated incidence highlights that size alone isn’t the only factor at play. The naked mole rat is famously resistant to tumors and appears to break the rules in the other direction. 



Experts hope that such biological oddities will expose fresh avenues for cancer research and interventions.



"Finding which animals are naturally better at fighting off cancer opens exciting new paths for research. By studying these successful species, we can better understand how cancers develop and potentially discover new ways to fight the disease,” said study lead author Dr. George Butler.



Scientists note that each anomaly teaches them about the intersection of environment, genetics, and disease. Pinpointing how certain species sidestep tumors might yield game-changing breakthroughs down the road.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-human-health">Implications for human health</h2>



Some large animals hold clues about keeping cancer in check despite massive cell counts. Comparing these biological tactics could suggest strategies to fortify human cancer defenses.



Medical researchers are intrigued by the possibility of applying elephant-like safeguards to human treatments. Understanding how extra tumor-suppressor genes function might spark more targeted therapies.



Similar logic applies to any species that has found a way to curb destructive cell <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-cancer-cell-death-may-transform-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growth</a>. Larger bodies offer a test case for how cells can multiply under tight regulation, hinting at new approaches for medicine.



Insights from reptile or bird physiology may also inspire creative treatments. With so many species showing unique immune or genetic responses, researchers are digging deeper into nature’s own solutions.



Overall, this discovery overturns a longstanding notion and reinforces the idea that more cells do come with bigger risks. It also highlights the incredible ways that nature deals with challenges as animals grow in size.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2422861122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS)</a>.



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Animal size and cancer risk: Surprising new details have emerged

Bigger creatures have long baffled scientists who study cancer. For...

Tree,Canopy,Against,A,Sky,Background,With,Oxygen,O2,And

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy from those rays flows through molecular pathways with an efficiency that has sparked curiosity for generations.



The new study was led by <a href="https://www.professoren.tum.de/en/hauer-juergen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Jürgen Hauer</a>, from the Technical University Munich (TUM). 



Researchers around the world are intrigued because these plants seem to tap into the puzzling principles of <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/quantum-mechanics-physics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to manage light energy with hardly any losses.



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



Photosynthesis is nature’s way of making food from sunlight, and it’s the reason we have oxygen to breathe. 



Plants, algae, and some bacteria use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. Think of it like a solar-powered kitchen where plants whip up their own energy-packed meals. 



They <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunlight-may-be-the-secret-weapon-for-direct-co2-capture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absorb sunlight</a> through chlorophyll, the green pigment in their leaves, and use that energy to power the chemical reactions that turn CO₂ and water into food. 



The best part? They release oxygen as a byproduct, which is pretty convenient for the rest of us.



Photosynthesis isn’t just about keeping plants alive - it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">keeps the entire planet running</a>. It’s the foundation of the food chain, feeding everything from tiny insects to massive mammals. 



It also helps regulate Earth’s atmosphere by pulling carbon dioxide out of the air, which is crucial for balancing the climate. 



Without photosynthesis, we wouldn’t have forests, fruits, or even the air we need to survive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-use-quantum-effects">How plants use quantum effects</h2>



There is a concept known as a <a href="https://quantum.microsoft.com/en-us/insights/education/concepts/superposition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superposition</a> where energy or particles overlap in multiple possible states. It sounds futuristic, yet plants have harnessed it for billions of years to maximize their solar intake.



“When light is absorbed in a leaf, for example, the electronic excitation energy is distributed over several states of each excited chlorophyll molecule; this is called a superposition of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-particles-solution-gravitational-wave-mystery-bose-einstein-condensate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excited states</a>,” explained Professor Hauer, from TUM. 



A large part of this process involves <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chlorophyll" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chlorophyll</a>, a green pigment that absorbs specific wavelengths of light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shining-a-light-on-energy-states">Shining a light on energy states</h2>



Once a leaf catches light, it must transfer that energy before it disperses as heat. These first moments happen incredibly fast, and scientists believe that the stable electron pathways in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/photosynthetic-bacteria" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthetic bacteria</a> work in a similar way.



“Quantum mechanics is therefore central to understanding the first steps of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy tr</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tapping-into-the-natural-power-of-plants-for-renewable-energy/">ansfer</a> and charge separation,” said Professor Hauer, from TUM.



<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature05678" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> suggest that tiny wave-like processes guide the energy flow toward the chemical centers of a plant cell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-artificial-photosynthesis">Refining artificial photosynthesis</h2>



The team see their investigation as a way to apply these natural insights to engineered light-harvesting materials. 



They propose that a molecule’s electronic states, arranged in precise ways, could push energy transfer systems closer to a near-ideal performance.



“Applying these findings in the design of artificial photosynthesis units could help to utilize solar energy with unprecedented efficiency for electricity generation or photochemistry,” noted one author, from TUM.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-capturing-sunlight">Complexities of capturing sunlight</h2>



Scientists have discovered that multiple electronic states overlap in chlorophyll, forming avenues where light pulses can glide without much resistance. 



This near-lossless flow has prompted chemists and physicists to look deeper into fast relaxation steps that keep the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> from leaking away.



These fast steps include a balance of vibrations, state couplings, and energy release in the form of heat. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20615985/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> use ultrafast lasers that fire pulses lasting fractions of a trillionth of a second to watch these early changes unfold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-quantum-changes-in-plants">Small quantum changes in plants</h2>



A closer look reveals subtle differences between specific energy bands, which keep the overall transfer chain stable. 



Minor adjustments in the distance or angle of chlorophyll molecules can create big changes in how efficiently they pass along absorbed sunlight.



While classical physics alone cannot fully describe these happenings, quantum approaches appear to fill the gap. 



The main question is how to control these states in ways that mimic or surpass the leaf’s skill at capturing photons.



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



A major goal is to build artificial systems that hold onto light longer and send it wherever it is needed. 



Some researchers believe that refining these structures will lead to better photo-devices that power homes or drive chemical reactions at a lower cost.



These fields combine chemistry, biology, and physics in a push to boost the performance of everything from solar cells to photochemical reactors. 



The end game is to create technology that behaves like nature’s wonders yet fits human needs for large-scale energy use.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-beyond-the-horizon">Peeking beyond the horizon</h2>



By rethinking conventional energy strategies, scientists hope to replicate the efficiency seen in plants and photosynthetic bacteria. 



That might mean reimagining how we store solar energy, with designs that keep the delicate molecular dance intact.



This latest <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> breaks ground by confirming that quantum-level effects play a practical role in photosynthesis. 



That assurance opens doors for more projects aiming to push molecular engineering to places once thought too esoteric.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



Teams worldwide are now looking to refine advanced spectroscopic methods. 



Part of that involves filtering complex signals to trace how each portion of light energy travels through molecules before being anchored in chemical form.



Those explorations will likely feed into new concepts that bend or arrange chlorophyll-like compounds in stable frameworks. 



As the principles get clearer, labs will be able to prototype test cells that channel energy with minimal waste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-quantum-mechanics-and-the-future">Plants, quantum mechanics, and the future</h2>



With continued research, engineers may learn to craft artificial setups that match nature’s unparalleled handling of sunshine. 



The goal is to shrink losses in electron flow by orchestrating molecular states the same way leaves have done for ages.



It is not just about building better solar panels, though that is a key outcome. 



It is also about figuring out how this quiet whisper of quantum activity, hidden within ordinary green leaves, can keep inspiring more ideas in energy science.



The study is published in <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/sc/d4sc06441k" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chemical Science</a>.



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Plants rely on quantum mechanics to manage and transfer energy

When sunlight streams onto a leaf, something remarkable happens. Energy...

Mice sometimes surprise researchers in the lab. When a young mouse spots another lying still, it may paw at its comatose friend, chew on its snout, or even yank its limp tongue aside.



<a href="https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/li-zhang/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Li Zhang</a> at the University of Southern California and his colleagues have been looking into these interactions. 



They captured <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq2677" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">footage</a> of lab mice confronting a familiar cage mate that had been anesthetized and was unresponsive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rescue-behavior-in-mice">Rescue behavior in mice</h2>



“They start with sniffing, and then grooming, and then with a very intensive or physical interaction,” related Li Zhang.



Scientists observed grooming and mouth-focused nibbling. Some mice targeted the unmoving partner’s mouth area, pulling its tongue out in an attempt to clear the airway. 



These same actions occasionally turned up in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deer-mice-shed-light-on-adaptive-evolution/">mice</a> that were interacting with companions that had passed away.



Researchers noticed how these stereotypical gestures tapered off once the still mouse revived and regained motion. 



They also found that a mouse gave more attention to an unresponsive peer that was recognizable than to one that was a stranger. 



This distinction suggests that familiarity plays a role in prompting these rescue-like behaviors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insight-from-other-animals">Insight from other animals</h2>



Large mammals such as chimpanzees, dolphins, and elephants have been recorded aiding group members that are in trouble. 



Some dolphins have guided a distressed pod mate to the surface so it could breathe, which has long intrigued scientists who study social behaviors in marine animals. 



Elephants have also been known to support injured relatives. These examples suggest that lending a helping hand isn’t always limited to humans.



Rodents, however, can be trickier to monitor in the wild. Mice prefer concealed spaces and often scatter at the slightest hint of danger. That makes it challenging to film them tending to an ailing group member outside the lab.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-oxytocin-in-rescue-behavior">Role of oxytocin in rescue behavior</h2>



These rescue-like gestures appear linked to the presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-is-crucial-beyond-its-role-as-the-love-hormone/">oxytocin</a>, a hormone that influences bonding in many species. The new study detected active oxytocin-releasing neurons in the amygdala and hypothalamus. 



These brain regions, known to handle emotion and social behavior, lit up when mice recognized a cage mate in distress. 



“If we extended the observation window, maybe the success rate could be even higher,” said team member <a href="https://keck.usc.edu/faculty-search/huizhong-tao/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huizhong Tao</a>, also from USC.



Additional evidence showed that turning off these neuron signals or blocking their ability to dispatch oxytocin reduced the mice’s apparent attempts to help. 



Activating the same neurons produced more grooming and nibbling.



The link between this hormone and nurturing conduct has come up in past research, supporting the view that many mammals share some wiring for caring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-for-group-survival">Importance for group survival</h2>



Scientists think these behaviors might help keep social groups together and improve survival. Young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mice-pass-the-mirror-test-does-that-mean-they-are-self-aware/">mice</a> that responded to a motionless mate saw that partner bounce back to normal sooner than those left alone. 



That small difference might affect how groups function in their natural habitats, where every second can be a matter of life or death.



Some researchers say caution is needed when drawing big conclusions. Animals often do things that look human-like, but motives can be complicated. 



Still, these lab findings give hints that even small creatures might care more about their companions than we once believed.



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



Many animals rely on social bonds for carrying out different activities, from defense to nurturing infants. 



This study raises the possibility that more species have built-in behaviors that benefit the whole community. 



Researchers suspect that similar patterns might exist in other species but remain unnoticed because of how tough it is to observe these moments in the wild.



Oxytocin is a hormone found in many vertebrate species and the researchers suggest that it could underpin an innate emergency response to assist an unresponsive group member. 



This revival behavior may thus be widely present, particularly among social animals.



The discovery that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-mice-turn-to-female-mice-to-avoid-fights-keep-social-peace/">mice act as tiny caregivers</a> prompts new questions. Scientists plan to test if there are variations among different strains of mice. 



Some want to see if environmental factors, such as stress or crowding, affect how likely mice are to step up for a comatose mate.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq2677" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Mice offer first aid to unconscious companions

Mice sometimes surprise researchers in the lab. When a young...

For centuries, people have been amazed by auroras, which light up the polar skies in glowing shades of green, red, and purple. But these lights reflect more than just beauty - they signify the powerful forces shaping space weather. 



Auroras occur when the Sun’s charged particles hit Earth’s upper atmosphere. But another invisible force also plays a key role in space weather events.



Electrojets are massive electrical currents that flow around Earth’s poles, carrying nearly a million amps per second. When they change, they can disrupt communication, affect satellites, and even cause power outages. 



Scientists still have many questions about how these currents form, shift, and interact with Earth’s magnetic field.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ezie-s-mission-to-study-electrojets">EZIE's mission to study electrojets</h2>



To find answers, NASA is preparing to launch a new mission: the Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/ezie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EZIE</a>). This ambitious project will use a trio of CubeSats to study electrojets in unprecedented detail.



Scientists hope that EZIE’s observations will lead to better space <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-can-comets-tell-us-about-solar-activity-and-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather</a> forecasts, helping protect astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth.



Auroral electrojets are part of a vast electrical circuit that stretches nearly 100,000 miles from Earth into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-solar-storm-warning-issued-as-two-cmes-will-hit-earth-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a>. As solar wind interacts with our planet’s magnetic field, it generates currents that flow through the upper atmosphere, particularly in the polar regions.



These currents can shift rapidly, causing sudden changes in Earth’s magnetic field that ground-based systems may struggle to handle.



“EZIE is the first mission dedicated exclusively to studying the electrojets, and it does so with a completely new measurement technique,” said Larry Kepko, EZIE mission scientist at NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a>.



Previous studies of electrojets relied on ground-based observations and scattered satellite data. While these efforts provided valuable insights, they left many aspects of the electrojets’ behavior unclear. 



EZIE’s mission is to fill these gaps and provide a more complete picture of how these powerful currents evolve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-behavior-of-electrojets">Observing the behavior of electrojets </h2>



The EZIE <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/ezie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mission</a> will deploy three small CubeSats, each about the size of a carry-on suitcase, into a synchronized orbit around Earth. These satellites will travel in a “string-of-pearls” formation, following one another as they pass over the poles at an altitude of 350 miles. 



Each CubeSat will observe the same region of the atmosphere at slightly different times - anywhere from two to ten minutes apart - allowing scientists to track how electrojets change over short periods.



Each satellite carries a Microwave Electrojet Magnetogram, a sophisticated instrument designed to measure the strength and direction of electrojet currents. Developed at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this instrument detects microwave emissions from oxygen molecules in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-space-weather-forecasting-will-help-us-predict-solar-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a>. 



Normally, these molecules emit microwaves at a frequency of 118 gigahertz, but when influenced by strong magnetic fields - such as those produced by electrojets - this emission line splits in a process known as Zeeman splitting.



By analyzing this effect, EZIE can determine how electrojets behave in real time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-space-weather-science">Advancing space weather science </h2>



One of the biggest challenges in studying electrojets is their location. They flow through a region of the atmosphere too high for balloons to reach yet too low for traditional satellites to dwell for long periods. 



EZIE’s approach solves this problem by using a remote-sensing technique that allows it to measure electrojets from space without needing to fly directly through them.



“The utilization of the Zeeman technique to remotely map current-induced magnetic fields is really a game-changing approach,” said Sam Yee, EZIE’s principal investigator at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.



The technology used in EZIE’s instruments has been refined through past NASA missions, such as TEMPEST-D and CubeRRT. 



These earlier efforts focused on Earth’s weather systems, but their advancements in radio detection and signal processing have now been adapted for space weather research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-citizen-science-initiative">A global citizen science initiative </h2>



NASA is also involving students and volunteers in the EZIE mission. Through a citizen science initiative, dozens of EZIE magnetometer kits will be distributed to students in the U.S. and volunteers worldwide.



These participants will measure magnetic field variations from the ground, allowing researchers to compare data from Earth with EZIE’s space-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-sun-has-officially-reached-its-solar-maximum-period-in-this-solar-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">observations</a>.



“EZIE scientists will be collecting magnetic field data from above, and the students will be collecting magnetic field data from the ground,” said Nelli Mosavi, EZIE project manager at APL.



By engaging the public, the experts hope to inspire the next generation of scientists while also improving their research through a global network of observations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-launching-during-solar-maximum">Launching during solar maximum</h2>



EZIE will launch in March of 2025 aboard a SpaceX <a href="https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Falcon 9</a> rocket from <a href="https://www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vandenberg Space Force Base</a> in California.



The mission is set to coincide with the peak of the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle, known as solar maximum. This timing is significant, as solar storms and increased Sun activity intensify auroral electrojets, making them easier to study.



“It’s better to launch during solar max,” said Kepko. “The electrojets respond directly to solar activity.”



By launching at this time, EZIE will have the best chance of capturing the strongest electrojet events, providing more detailed and dynamic data for scientists to analyze.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-sun-s-powerful-influence">Exploring the Sun's powerful influence </h2>



EZIE will work alongside other upcoming NASA missions, including <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/punch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PUNCH</a> (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere), which will investigate how material from the Sun’s atmosphere transforms into the solar wind. 



Together, these missions will expand our understanding of the Sun’s influence on Earth and the space environment.



The project also highlights the growing role of CubeSats in space research. These small, cost-effective satellites allow scientists to conduct cutting-edge research that would have been impossible a decade ago.



“This is a mission that couldn’t have flown a decade ago,” Kepko said. “It’s pushing the envelope of what is possible, all on a small satellite. It’s exciting to think about what we will discover.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-space-weather-monitoring">New era of space weather monitoring </h2>



Managed by NASA's Explorers Program Office, the EZIE mission is funded by NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/heliophysics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heliophysics Division</a> and led by the <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory</a>. 



By unlocking the mysteries of auroral electrojets, EZIE could revolutionize our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather. 



From protecting astronauts in orbit to safeguarding power grids on Earth, the mission’s findings could have lasting impacts on both science and daily life.



As EZIE begins its mission, it will uncover new details about the hidden forces shaping Earth and its connection to the Sun.



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NASA's new EZIE mission will study Earth's auroras from space

For centuries, people have been amazed by auroras, which light...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-astrobiology">Implications for astrobiology</h2>



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



-----



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



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



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

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A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer 



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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