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...

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the waves at barely a few inches long. Some people assume these little sea turtles vanish after that, drifting in the open water for years without actively swimming or controlling where they go.



In a recent <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by Kate Mansfield from the University of Central Florida, researchers have pieced together what happens during the early, lesser-known part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-turtles-show-signs-of-recovery-but-conservation-issues-remain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles’ lives</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-baby-turtles-is-difficult">Tracking baby turtles is difficult</h2>



Researchers recently uncovered the whereabouts of young sea turtles by using carefully designed satellite trackers. They found that tiny turtles show more control over their movement than once believed.



“We’ve had massive data gaps about the early baby to toddler life stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-celebrating-100-million-years-of-majesty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea</a> turtles,” said Mansfield. She explained that this phase was rarely observed in detail.



"Known as the sea turtle ‘lost years,' few data exist on the in-water behavior of young, oceanic-stage sea turtles," wrote the researchers.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainfall-impacts-the-size-of-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Young</a> turtles shed their outer shell layers quickly. This makes it tough to secure tracking devices long enough to gather good data.



Engineers refined lightweight solar-powered tags for weeks or months of location data without hindering the turtles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-young-sea-turtles-don-t-just-drift">Young sea turtles don’t just drift</h2>



Scientists once believed baby turtles went with the flow of ocean currents. Field data are now challenging that long-standing notion.



“What we’ve uncovered is that the turtles are actually swimming,” said Nathan Putman, an ecologist at LGL Ecological Research Associates in Texas.



The analysis compared drifting buoys with small turtles and showed that many turtles moved on their own instead of washing ashore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-turtles-choose-where-to-swim">Baby turtles choose where to swim</h2>



The difference between turtles and free-floating buoys grew clearer over the course of each tracking period. Drifting objects often ended up stuck on beaches, yet many turtles did not.



“This tiny little hatchling is actually making its own decisions about where it wants to go in the ocean and what it wants to avoid,” said Bryan Wallace, a wildlife ecologist at <a href="https://ecolibriumsolar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecolibrium in Colorado</a>.



The new findings suggest that turtles choose routes that match their needs for food and safe temperatures.



"The paths of our tracked neonate loggerheads were environmentally constrained. No turtles moved into lethally cold waters," noted the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-habitats-of-sea-turtles-revealed">Hidden habitats of sea turtles revealed</h2>



Tag data also showed young sea turtles in areas once assumed too close to shore for this stage. Though many do wander across open waters, some appear comfortable dipping into shallower spots.



The researchers noted that such varied paths challenge the old definition of an exclusively oceanic childhood. This highlights the importance of regions near the continental shelf for four types of endangered sea <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/leatherback-sea-turtles-where-the-worlds-largest-turtles-go-to-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turtles</a>.



It took years to refine solar-powered tags that could function on small, rapidly growing shells. Early versions fell off too fast or failed to recharge in ocean conditions.



“For years, the technology couldn’t match the dream,” said Jeffrey Seminoff, a marine biologist at NOAA who was not involved in the study. 



Continued collaboration between ecologists and engineers is bringing once-hidden animal behavior to light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-efforts-for-sea-turtles">Conservation efforts for sea turtles </h2>



The findings spotlight part of a creature’s life that was overshadowed for decades by hatchling races to the sea and nesting adults on familiar beaches. 



Young turtles do more than just drift - they swim toward the open ocean, while others linger over the continental shelf.



“It’s not that the sea turtles were ever lost, but that we had lost track of them,” said Jeanette Wyneken at Florida Atlantic University. This deeper understanding may guide conservation efforts in areas where turtles feed or rest before reaching adulthood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-how-baby-turtles-swim">Rethinking how baby turtles swim</h2>



The research suggests that the early life stage of sea turtles is not just a dispersal period. The study captures the reality that little turtles roam widely and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sea-turtle-day-a-tribute-to-resilience-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt</a> their routes to changing conditions.



They might spot floating algae to seek shelter, or they might veer away from predator hotspots. Even in vast waters, these hatchlings can find ways to survive on their own terms.



The study is published in <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2013.3039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>.



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Where young sea turtles spend their early lives has always been a mystery - until now

They start their journey on sandy shores, scuttling toward the...

Life on Earth is complex and ever-changing. Scientists have long relied on ground-based methods to study biodiversity, but these approaches have limits. Observing ecosystems from space provides a new way to monitor biodiversity across vast landscapes and oceans.



Thanks to advances in satellite technology and aerial imaging, researchers can track changes in biodiversity with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-must-reconnect-with-nature-now-to-save-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greater precision</a>.



A multinational team of scientists, led by <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Merced</a> civil and environmental engineering Professor Erin Hestir, has taken a major step forward in this field. With funding from NASA, the team launched <a href="https://www.bioscape.io/team" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioSCape</a>, an ambitious research project designed to measure biodiversity from the sky.



The goal is to test new techniques for tracking life on land and in water, using data collected from aircraft and satellites.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-technology-to-study-biodiversity">Space technology to study biodiversity</h2>



The BioSCape project brought together experts from different disciplines and countries. 



Hestir led the effort alongside <a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Buffalo</a> geography Professor Adam Wilson and Professor Jasper Slingsby from the <a href="https://www.uct.ac.za" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cape Town</a>. 



Over six weeks in late 2024, the team gathered critical data in South Africa’s Greater Cape Floristic Region, one of the most ecologically diverse places on Earth.



“Over just six weeks, more than 160 scientists from around the world came together to collect and analyze data across terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems in one of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world’s biodiversity hotspots</a>,” said Wilson.



The team’s work was not limited to a single approach. They combined data from multiple sources, using both aircraft and on-the-ground research to create a detailed picture of the region’s ecosystems. 



Their efforts have provided new insights into how different species interact, how landscapes change over time, and how environmental factors influence biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-life-from-the-air">Capturing life from the air</h2>



Three aircraft played a crucial role in the BioSCape project. Two NASA planes and one South African aircraft flew over the Greater Cape Floristic Region, capturing a variety of images. 



These included ultraviolet, visual, and thermal data, which allowed researchers to detect patterns that would be impossible to see from the ground.



“This was NASA’s first ever biodiversity-focused campaign,” Hestir said. “We successfully hit all our measurement targets, and the data collected are contributing to novel techniques and methods to be able to monitor biodiversity from space across the globe. It’s a lot of exciting science.”



By using advanced imaging techniques, the experts gained a new perspective on ecosystems. They could see how plant communities were arranged, how species moved across different environments, and how climate changes affected biodiversity.



This method of data collection provided a powerful tool for studying ecosystems on a large scale.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-airborne-studies">Importance of airborne studies</h2>



Before investing in a new satellite, scientists must be certain that their instruments will work as expected. Airborne studies allow researchers to test their methods before committing to expensive space missions. 



The BioSCape team used this approach to ensure that their biodiversity monitoring techniques could eventually be adapted for satellite use in space.



“It’s very expensive to launch a satellite into space,” Slingsby said. “You have to be certain it will achieve its mission before taking that step." 



"That’s why we begin with airborne studies - they serve as a critical proving ground. If we can successfully gather data from a plane, it brings us one step closer to understanding how to achieve the same from space.”



The data collected during BioSCape showed that these techniques could work. Scientists now have a roadmap for expanding their research beyond South Africa. If these methods prove successful on a larger scale, future satellites could monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-mitigation-strategies-may-be-endangering-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> across the entire planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-strategies-to-protect-biodiversity">Developing strategies to protect biodiversity </h2>



The team chose the Greater Cape Floristic Region as it is known for its extraordinary levels of biodiversity, but it also faces significant conservation challenges. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-action-and-biodiversity-striking-the-right-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a>, habitat destruction, and human activity have put many species at risk.



In addition to its ecological importance, the region has a well-developed research community focused on biodiversity conservation. 



By working in this area, the BioSCape team could collaborate with local scientists and build on existing knowledge. The project also contributed valuable data that will support future conservation efforts.



Their findings helped researchers examine changes in species distribution, ecosystem resilience, and the ways in which nature supports human communities. This information is essential for developing effective strategies to protect biodiversity in a rapidly changing world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-access-to-scientific-data">Expanding access to scientific data</h2>



One of the most important aspects of BioSCape is its commitment to sharing information. The team made their data freely available to scientists and the public, ensuring that their findings can be used to support biodiversity research using space-based technology <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-calls-for-global-change-to-stop-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worldwide</a>.



Addressing biodiversity loss requires accurate, up-to-date information. By making their data open-access, the researchers hope to advance conservation efforts and inspire new scientific discoveries. 



The team's methods could lead to better tools for tracking biodiversity, which would help governments, conservation organizations, and communities make informed decisions about protecting the environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-missions-to-improve-biodiversity-tracking">Space missions to improve biodiversity tracking</h2>



BioSCape has already led to new insights, but the team believes this is only the beginning. Their work is building scientific capacity in South Africa and beyond, equipping researchers with the tools needed to monitor biodiversity more effectively.



“BioSCape is building technical capacity in South Africa and we hope to prepare the community to take advantage of NASA’s advanced and freely available satellite imagery to improve conservation,” noted Anabelle Cardoso, the science team manager.



“In a year from now we will have new findings and better insights, advancing cutting-edge technology so we can measure life on Earth from space," said Hestir.



The ability to track biodiversity from space could transform the way scientists study ecosystems. By refining these techniques, researchers can improve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-tracking-is-crucial-for-preserving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts, detect environmental changes more quickly, and gain a deeper understanding of how life on Earth functions.



With the success of BioSCape, the next steps are clear. Expanding these efforts globally could lead to a new era of biodiversity research - one where space-based observations provide crucial data for protecting life on our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44185-024-00071-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">npj Biodiversity</a>.



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Changes in Earth’s biodiversity can be tracked from space

Life on Earth is complex and ever-changing. Scientists have long...

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of wolves and other large carnivores in Yellowstone National Park, demonstrating how the reintroduction of predators can trigger dramatic changes in ecosystem dynamics.&nbsp;



By examining 20 years of data (from 2001 to 2020) collected at 25 riparian sites, the research team discovered a staggering 1,500% increase in willow crown volume along streamside areas in northern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-return-of-wolves-in-yellowstone-nbsp">The return of wolves in Yellowstone&nbsp;</h2>



This remarkable recovery is attributed to the cascading effects initiated by the restored large carnivore guild, following the return of wolves in 1995–96, and the subsequent reduction in elk populations that had previously overbrowsed the vegetation.



The study, led by William J. Ripple of <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and the <a href="https://consbio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Biology Institute</a> provides one of the most compelling examples yet of a trophic cascade - a process where predators indirectly influence vegetation by regulating herbivore behavior and abundance.&nbsp;



In this case, the dramatic growth of willows, used as a proxy for aboveground biomass, offers a clear metric of the ecological recovery underway in Yellowstone.



“Our findings emphasize the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apex-predators-can-help-restore-ecosystems-but-not-immediately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> as ecosystem architects,” said Ripple. 



“The restoration of wolves and other large predators has transformed parts of Yellowstone, benefiting not only willows but other woody species such as aspen, alder, and berry-producing shrubs. It’s a compelling reminder of how predators, prey, and plants are interconnected in nature.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-the-trophic-cascade">Unleashing the trophic cascade</h2>



The ecological phenomenon documented in Yellowstone is a textbook example of a trophic cascade. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-return-of-the-gray-wolf-triumph-or-tragedy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wolves</a> were extirpated from the park by the 1920s, elk populations surged, leading to overbrowsing and severe degradation of riparian vegetation.&nbsp;



This suppression not only diminished willow growth but also adversely affected other woody plants and the overall habitat quality in these crucial areas.&nbsp;



With the reintroduction of wolves and other large carnivores in the mid-1990s, elk numbers and behaviors were altered, allowing vegetation - especially willows - to rebound dramatically.



Using willow crown volume as a three-dimensional indicator of vegetation recovery, the study quantitatively measured the significant resurgence of riparian habitats.&nbsp;



Notably, the strength of this trophic cascade in Yellowstone is reported to surpass 82% of the strengths observed in a global synthesis of similar studies, highlighting the exceptional nature of the recovery process in this iconic landscape.&nbsp;



Yet, the researchers also noted that recovery varied considerably among sites, reflecting the complexity and spatial heterogeneity of natural systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riparian-zones-crucial-biodiversity-hotspots">Riparian zones: Crucial biodiversity hotspots</h2>



Although riparian areas comprise only a small fraction of the western United States’ landscape, they are vital for biodiversity. 



These zones offer critical resources and habitat for a wide array of wildlife, linking upland and aquatic ecosystems and supporting a diversity of species that may not thrive elsewhere. 



The resurgence of willow growth is not merely an isolated botanical event; it plays a key role in restoring the integrity of entire riparian ecosystems, thereby benefiting birds, mammals, and other organisms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wolves-and-yellowstone-ecosystem-recovery">Wolves and Yellowstone ecosystem recovery</h2>



The study’s robust findings are based on an extensive, multi-decade dataset that captured the gradual but profound changes in riparian vegetation over time.&nbsp;



By employing willow crown volume as a measurable indicator, the researchers were able to directly link the restoration of large carnivores to ecosystem recovery. This method offers a powerful tool for evaluating trophic cascade strength and can potentially be applied to similar ecological studies elsewhere.



“Our analysis of a long-term data set simply confirmed that ecosystem recovery takes time. In the early years of this trophic cascade, plants were only beginning to grow taller after decades of suppression by elk. But the strength of this recovery, as shown by the dramatic increases in willow crown volume, became increasingly apparent in subsequent years,” said Robert Beschta, an emeritus professor at Oregon State University.&nbsp;



“These improving conditions have created vital habitats for birds and other species, while also enhancing other stream-side conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-conservation-and-future-research">Implications for conservation and future research</h2>



This research not only highlights the importance of predator restoration for revitalizing degraded ecosystems but also provides critical insights for conservation strategies worldwide. 



The dramatic improvement in riparian vegetation in Yellowstone serves as a powerful reminder that restoring natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-predator-prey-feast-ever-seen-in-the-ocean-enormous-quickly-altered-food-chain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a> can have cascading benefits that extend to every level of the ecosystem.&nbsp;



As the study demonstrates, such processes are integral to maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and the overall health of our natural landscapes.



By quantifying the recovery of willows, the study paves the way for further exploration into how the reintroduction of large carnivores can be harnessed to promote ecosystem restoration in other parts of the world.&nbsp;



As conservationists and policymakers seek effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of human activities and climate change, Yellowstone’s example offers both hope and a proven roadmap for the transformative power of nature’s own regulatory mechanisms.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03428" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Ecology and Conservation</a>.



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Wolves are rebuilding forests and restoring ecosystem balance in Yellowstone

A new study has unveiled the far-reaching ecological impact of...

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface, marine life relies on calls, clicks, and songs to navigate, communicate, and survive. For baleen whales, singing songs is essential, but it also comes with risks. 



Killer whales, their primary natural predators, are intelligent and highly skilled hunters. Yet, despite their sharp senses, some baleen whales manage to avoid their attacks.



New research from the University of Washington sheds light on a fascinating survival strategy. Some baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/these-marine-mammals-killer-whales-dolphins-permanently-lost-ability-to-ever-walk-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> call at frequencies so deep that killer whales cannot hear them. 



This unique adaptation influences everything from migration to mating, revealing how fear shapes the behavior of these giants of the sea.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fight-or-flight-dilemma-of-whales">Fight or flight dilemma of whales</h2>



Baleen whales, known for their filter-feeding systems, differ from their toothed relatives in behavior and survival strategies. 



Unlike dolphins or sperm whales, which often live in large, social pods, many baleen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a> lead more solitary lives. When faced with an attack, they must decide whether to fight or flee.



Some species, like humpbacks and gray whales, choose to stand their ground. They rely on their maneuverability and group defense to deter predators. Others, like blue and fin whales, opt for speed, escaping into the vastness of the open ocean. 



This divide between fight and flight species plays a crucial role in shaping their lifestyles, habitats, and even the way they sing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-whale-songs">Mystery of whale songs</h2>



Whale songs are among the most haunting and complex sounds in nature. Scientists have long studied these vocalizations to understand their purpose. 



While it is well known that whales use songs to attract mates and communicate across great distances, one question remained: why don’t killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> track these calls to hunt them down?



The answer lies in frequency. Killer whales have a hearing range that starts at 100 hertz, meaning they cannot detect sounds below this threshold. 



Some baleen whales, particularly those in the flight category, have adapted by producing ultra-low-frequency calls that remain completely undetectable to their predators. These deep-voiced species include blue, fin, sei, Bryde’s, and minke whales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-songs-help-whales-hide">How songs help whales hide</h2>



Trevor Branch, professor of aquatic and fishery sciences at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, led a study analyzing the relationship between whale songs and predation risk. 



The research combined existing knowledge of killer whale hearing with studies on baleen whale vocalizations. By modeling how sound moves through the ocean, Professor Branch was able to determine which species remain acoustically hidden.



It turns out that the calls of flight species rarely travel more than a kilometer before fading. This means that even if killer whales could hear them, they would still be difficult to track. 



Meanwhile, the fight species - right, bowhead, gray, and humpback whales - produce higher-frequency calls that can be detected from much greater distances.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-survival-strategy-hidden-in-songs">Whales survival strategy hidden in songs</h2>



The idea that baleen whales rely on fight or flight responses is not new, but the role of sound in their survival adds a new layer of understanding. Could these deep songs serve as a defense mechanism? 



This concept, known as "acoustic crypsis," suggests that some whales evolved to sing in a way that keeps them hidden from predators.



“But these super-loud songs could expose them and their mates to killer whale attack. And this is where acoustic crypsis comes in: singing at low frequencies that are impossible, or very difficult, for killer whales to hear,” Branch said.



This survival strategy highlights how even the most massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creatures</a> on Earth must adapt to threats. By calling at deep frequencies, flight species can continue their essential communication while reducing the risk of drawing unwanted attention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-habitat-influences-defense">How habitat influences defense</h2>



The fight-or-flight divide among baleen whales also affects where they live. Fight species tend to migrate and give birth in coastal areas. 



These shallow waters provide some protection, as they allow group defense strategies to work more effectively. Their slow-swimming bodies may make them vulnerable, but their ability to maneuver quickly gives them an edge when fending off an attack.



In contrast, flight species thrive in the open ocean. Their sleek, powerful bodies allow them to escape quickly when danger approaches. 



These whales spread out over vast distances, making it harder for killer whales to find them. Their survival depends on speed and silence rather than confrontation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trade-offs-in-feeding-and-mating">Trade-offs in feeding and mating</h2>



Choosing where to live comes with trade-offs. Coastal waters offer some protection from predators, but they also provide less food. Fight <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ship-routes-overlap-with-92-of-whale-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> must compete for limited resources, while flight species, living in more isolated open waters, have access to greater food supplies.



However, mating presents the opposite challenge. It is much easier for fight species to find partners when gathered in the same location. 



Flight species, scattered across thousands of miles, must rely on their songs to attract mates. This explains why their calls are long and repetitive, increasing the chances of being heard over vast distances.



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



The findings of this research suggest that fear plays a significant role in shaping whale behavior. Every aspect of their lives, from where they breed to how they communicate, is influenced by the threat of predation.



“It just never occurred to me that some whales sing low to avoid killer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whale-sharks-use-offshore-oil-rigs-as-food-stops-during-migration-harming-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a>, but the more I looked at this, the more I realized that every aspect of their behavior is influenced by the fear of predation,” said Professor Branch.



This hidden war of sound beneath the waves highlights how even the ocean’s largest creatures must navigate the dangers of their world. By understanding songs of whales, scientists continue to uncover the secrets of survival in the deep.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.13228" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Mammal Science</a>.



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Whales have developed an impressive strategy to evade predators

The ocean is a world of sound. Beneath the surface,...

Galaxies often collide and interact over vast timescales, reshaping their structures in unpredictable ways. Some merge, others drift past one another, but few experience a direct impact through the core. 



Recently, the Bullseye galaxy, officially known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/bullseye-galaxy_LEDA-1313424_9-rings_hubble_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LEDA 1313424</a>, has revealed a stunning cosmic event.



NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> captured this rare phenomenon, showing the Bullseye galaxy marked by nine distinct rings. 



This discovery changes how astronomers view galaxy interactions, providing a rare glimpse into the rippling effects of a high-speed collision.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-dive-through-the-bullseye-galaxy">A dive through the Bullseye galaxy</h2>



A much smaller blue dwarf <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/hubble-spots-a-supernova-in-the-constellation-gemini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> pierced straight through the Bullseye’s heart, leaving behind an intricate pattern of expanding rings. These rings, filled with newborn stars, resemble ripples in a pond. 



While previous studies of ring galaxies identified only two or three rings at most, this system has shattered that record.



The process behind this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-years-ago-edwin-hubble-proved-the-milky-way-is-not-the-only-galaxy-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraordinary formation</a> mirrors events found in nature. Consider the Northern Gannet, a seabird known for its high-speed dives into the ocean. 



From as high as 100 feet, it plummets into the water in pursuit of fish. Its pointed beak and tightly folded wings reduce splash, but the impact still sends tiny ripples outward. Now, scale that scenario to galactic proportions.



Instead of a bird, imagine a tiny galaxy plunging into a much larger one. Instead of water, envision a vast galactic disk filled with stars, gas, and dust. 



Fifty million years ago, when the blue dwarf galaxy passed through the core of the Bullseye, the cosmic ripples left in its wake pushed material both inward and outward, shaping the structure of the larger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-captures-a-blue-lurker-multi-star-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rings-in-the-bullseye-galaxy">Rings in the Bullseye galaxy</h2>



Seeing such a phenomenon in detail is rare. Both the Hubble Space Telescope and the <a href="https://keckobservatory.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">W. M. Keck Observatory</a> in Hawaii confirmed the existence of nine rings in the Bullseye galaxy. 



This is more than double the number seen in any other known ring galaxy. Hubble also identified the intruding galaxy, which now sits to the left of the Bullseye.



"This was a serendipitous discovery," said Imad Pasha, the lead researcher and a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a>. "I was looking at a ground-based imaging survey and when I saw a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/andromeda-galaxy-the-violent-history-of-our-closest-cosmic-neighbor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> with several clear rings, I was immediately drawn to it. I had to stop to investigate it."



The name "Bullseye" perfectly describes the galaxy’s appearance, with each ring resembling a mark left by a cosmic arrow. 



The rings are not merely decorative features; they represent powerful waves of star formation triggered by the dwarf galaxy’s high-speed passage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-brief-moment-in-history">A brief moment in history </h2>



The researchers believe that this moment in the Bullseye galaxy’s history is brief.



"We’re catching the Bullseye at a very special moment in time. There's a very narrow window after the impact when a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-confirms-hubble-constant-our-understanding-of-universe-expansion-very-wrong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> like this would have so many rings," noted study co-author Pieter G. van Dokkum, a professor at Yale.



Galactic interactions are common, but a direct hit through the center is rare. The smaller galaxy’s straight trajectory caused material in the Bullseye to shift dramatically, creating the distinct concentric rings. Each ring marks a wave of compressed gas, leading to the birth of new stars.



For perspective, the Milky Way spans about 100,000 light-years across. The Bullseye galaxy, at 250,000 light-years in diameter, is more than twice as large. Its massive size makes the rings even more striking, as they continue expanding outward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-ninth-ring">Confirming the ninth ring</h2>



Hubble’s crisp imaging allowed researchers to pinpoint most of the rings, many of which are clustered near the center. 



"This would have been impossible without Hubble," Pasha explained. The telescope’s high resolution provided an unparalleled look at the Bullseye’s structure, revealing intricate details invisible to ground-based observatories.



The Keck Observatory in Hawaii played a crucial role in confirming one additional ring, bringing the total to nine. Researchers believe a tenth ring may have once existed but has since faded beyond detectability. 



If this lost ring still remains in some form, it would be located three times farther than the outermost ring captured by Hubble.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-theories-about-ring-formation">Confirming theories about ring formation</h2>



The Bullseye galaxy aligns almost perfectly with long-standing theories about ring formation. Models predict that a galaxy hit in this way should produce a series of outward-moving rings, and this is exactly what astronomers observed.



"That theory was developed for the day that someone saw so many rings," van Dokkum said. "It is immensely gratifying to confirm this long-standing prediction with the Bullseye galaxy."



Hubble’s image provides an angled view of the rings, making them appear unevenly spaced. If seen directly from above, they would form nearly perfect circles - with the innermost rings packed closely together and the outermost ones more widely spaced.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-ripple-effect-in-space">A ripple effect in space</h2>



To understand how these rings formed, imagine a pebble dropped into a pond. The first ripple spreads out widest, while others follow at regular intervals. 



In the Bullseye galaxy, the first two rings likely formed rapidly and expanded outward. Later rings appeared in sequence, slightly offset by the continued movement of gas and dust.



The passage of the blue dwarf galaxy affected the earliest rings the most, triggering a chain reaction that lasted millions of years. 



While individual stars remained largely undisturbed, entire groups of stars piled up to form the visible rings.



Meanwhile, gas was carried outward and mixed with dust, fueling the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universe-is-expanding-faster-than-science-can-explain-hubble-tension-physics-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creation</a> of new stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-the-bullseye-galaxy">Evolution of the Bullseye galaxy </h2>



Despite the clarity of this discovery, many questions remain. Astronomers want to determine which stars existed before the dwarf galaxy’s arrival and which formed afterward. 



This will help refine models of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unknown-factors-are-accelerating-the-expansion-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> evolution and provide insight into the long-term fate of the Bullseye.



Over time, some of the rings will fade as stars move out of alignment. However, the larger structure of the Bullseye will persist for millions of years, giving astronomers plenty of time to study its evolution.



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



Although this discovery was unexpected, it sets the stage for more findings in the future. Advanced telescopes will soon provide even greater insights into galactic interactions. 



"Once NASA's Nancy Grace <a href="https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roman Space Telescope</a> begins science operations, interesting objects will pop out much more easily," said van Dokkum. "We will learn how rare these spectacular events really are."



The research not only confirms theories about ring formation but also raises new questions about the physics of galactic collisions. .



The team's findings were published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad9f5c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, Imad Pasha (Yale), Pieter van Dokkum (Yale)



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"Bullseye" galaxy and its nine beautiful rings captured by Hubble

Galaxies often collide and interact over vast timescales, reshaping their...

Rising global temperatures may render extensive regions of the planet too hot for human survival over the coming decades, according to a new study led by King’s College London.



The research shows that if worldwide warming surpasses 2°C above pre-industrial levels, the proportion of land experiencing unsurvivable heat will triple, spanning an area nearly as large as the United States.



These extremely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-shatters-heat-records-earths-hottest-year-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high temperatures</a> would endanger healthy young adults (aged 18–60), pushing their bodies past the point where they can regulate internal heat - even with adequate shade and hydration. 



Moreover, older adults (60+) would be at high risk across nearly 35% of the global land surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-thresholds-for-human-survival">Heat thresholds for human survival</h2>



Study lead author Tom Matthews is a senior lecturer in Environmental Geography at King’s College London.



“Our findings show the potentially deadly consequences if <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global warming</a> reaches 2°C. Unsurvivable heat thresholds, which so far have only been exceeded briefly for older adults in the hottest regions on Earth, are likely to emerge even for younger adults,” said Matthews.&nbsp;



“In such conditions, prolonged outdoor exposure - even for those in the shade, subject to a strong breeze, and well hydrated - would be expected to cause lethal heatstroke. It represents a step-change in heat-mortality risk.”



With 2023 recorded as the first full year averaging more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial norms, many scientists caution that 2°C could be reached by the middle to latter half of this century if present trends remain unchecked.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rise-of-unsurvivable-heat">The rise of unsurvivable heat </h2>



The researchers connect physical climate science to human heat-mortality risks by focusing on two key thresholds:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Uncompensable heat - A critical point where the human body cannot effectively release heat, resulting in a perilous increase in core temperature.</li>



<li>Unsurvivable heat - The point at which core body temperature rises to 42°C within six hours, invariably resulting in fatal outcomes.</li>
</ul>



Between 1994 and 2023, about 2% of Earth’s land area exceeded the uncompensable threshold for healthy adults under 60. By contrast, over 20% of global land already reached those levels for older adults during periods of intense heat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deaths-from-extreme-heat">Deaths from extreme heat</h2>



According to the experts, since 2000, more than 260,000 people have died from extreme heat during major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mapping-marine-heatwaves-to-understand-their-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heatwaves</a>, a finding highlighting the scale of heat-related dangers.&nbsp;



The most lethal incidents - Europe’s 2003 and 2022 heatwaves, along with the 2010 Russian heatwave - together were responsible for nearly 200,000 fatalities.



Up to now, unsurvivable heat has appeared only briefly in Earth’s hottest locales, but experts predict a significant expansion of these extreme temperatures if global warming intensifies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-consequences-of-global-warming">Severe consequences of global warming</h2>



Although 2°C of warming carries serious risks, the study also indicates that a 4–5°C rise could be catastrophic. Older adults may face uncompensable heat over 60% of Earth’s land during extreme hot spells, while younger adults could encounter unsurvivable heat in the most sweltering subtropical zones.



Moreover, at 4°C above pre-industrial levels, around 40% of the globe would regularly endure uncompensable heat, restricting tolerable conditions largely to high-latitude and cooler mid-latitude areas.



Such projections place regions like Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of the Middle East in particular jeopardy, where even limited outdoor exposure might become life-threatening.



“At around 4°C of warming above pre-industrial levels, uncompensable heat for adults would affect about 40% of the global land area, with only the high latitudes and the cooler regions of the mid-latitudes remaining unaffected,” Matthews explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgency-for-climate-adaptation-nbsp">Urgency for climate adaptation&nbsp;</h2>



Recognizing these thresholds is pivotal for evaluating the potential human toll of escalating temperatures and for guiding adaptation strategies.&nbsp;



While rapid cuts in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenhouse-gas-emissions-reach-another-all-time-high/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas emissions</a> remain essential, the study emphasizes the need to protect vulnerable groups through measures such as:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Revamping urban design to mitigate heat via increased greenery and reflective surfaces.</li>



<li>Boosting cooling infrastructure, from widespread air conditioning to designated cooling centers.</li>



<li>Ensuring sufficient water and resource availability in heat-prone regions.</li>
</ul>



“Interdisciplinary work is vital to improving our understanding of unprecedented heat’s deadly potential and how it can be reduced,” noted Matthews.&nbsp;



“As more of the planet experiences outdoor conditions too hot for our physiology, it will be essential that people have reliable access to cooler environments to shelter from the heat.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-heat-and-human-survival">Extreme heat and human survival</h2>



Ultimately, the report clarifies that rising global temperatures are a direct menace to human survival, not merely an environmental concern. If 2°C of warming is reached, massive portions of the planet may become too hot for younger adults engaging in normal outdoor activities.&nbsp;



At 4°C, almost half of the world could confront periods of inescapable heat, rendering these regions effectively uninhabitable.



The findings underscore an urgent call for global mitigation efforts as well as strategic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-power-of-imagination-in-climate-change-adaptation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate adaptation</a>.&nbsp;



Without bold intervention to curb emissions and shield populations from extreme heat, the deadly consequences of climate change could become an enduring reality - one that fundamentally alters how and where people can live safely on our planet.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s43017-024-00635-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Reviews Earth and Environment</a>.



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Extreme heat is making large regions of Earth uninhabitable for humans

Rising global temperatures may render extensive regions of the planet...

Air pollution is often linked to respiratory diseases, heart problems, and other physical health concerns. However, new research suggests that even short-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) may impair brain functions. 



Everyday tasks, such as grocery shopping or focusing at work, could become more difficult due to temporary declines in attention and emotional interpretation.



A study led by researchers from the Universities of Birmingham and Manchester provides fresh insights into how pollution affects the brain. The findings show that high PM exposure disrupts selective attention and emotion recognition, regardless of how a person breathes.



This raises new concerns about the mental impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-causes-liver-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polluted environments</a>, particularly in urban areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-and-cognitive-abilities">Air pollution and cognitive abilities</h2>



The researchers examined the effects of PM exposure using an experimental approach. Participants were exposed to either clean air or polluted air created with candle smoke.



Cognitive tests were conducted before and four hours after smoke exposure. The goal was to assess various mental functions, including working memory, selective attention, emotion recognition, psychomotor speed, and sustained attention.



The results revealed a decline in selective attention and emotion recognition after <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-deaths-in-india-linked-to-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution exposure</a>. These findings suggest that short-term air pollution may interfere with a person’s ability to concentrate, resist distractions, and interpret social cues.



In contrast, working memory remained unaffected, indicating that some mental processes are more resistant to air pollution than others.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-air-pollution-impacts-the-brain">How air pollution impacts the brain</h2>



Scientists believe that inflammation caused by air pollution could be responsible for these cognitive deficits. 



The inhalation of fine particulate matter triggers immune responses that may disrupt normal brain function. This raises concerns about potential long-term consequences, particularly for individuals who are exposed to high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-air-quality-trends-revealed-in-new-images/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> levels daily.



“Our study provides compelling evidence that even short-term exposure to particulate matter can have immediate negative effects on brain functions essential for daily activities, such as doing the weekly supermarket shop,” noted Dr. Thomas Faherty from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>.



His statement highlights how even seemingly minor cognitive disruptions can affect daily routines. Simple tasks, like organizing a shopping list or managing social interactions, may become more challenging in polluted environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-and-social-consequences">Economic and social consequences</h2>



The decline in cognitive abilities due to air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> has broader implications beyond individual health. A workforce with diminished attention and decision-making skills could lead to decreased productivity. This, in turn, may affect businesses, economies, and overall societal development.



“Poor air quality undermines intellectual development and worker productivity, with significant societal and economic implications in a high-tech world reliant on cognitive excellence," noted Professor Francis Pope from the University of Birmingham.



"Reduced productivity impacts economic growth, further highlighting the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health, particularly in highly polluted urban areas.”



Professor Pope's remarks emphasize that cognitive function is not just a personal matter - it has widespread consequences for education, professional performance, and economic stability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-functions-and-their-importance">Cognitive functions and their importance</h2>



Cognitive abilities are essential for daily life, influencing everything from decision-making to emotional interactions. Selective attention allows people to filter out distractions, making it easier to focus on essential tasks. 



For instance, in a busy supermarket, selective attention helps shoppers concentrate on their list rather than being drawn to unnecessary purchases.



Working memory, another key function, allows individuals to temporarily store and manipulate information. This skill is particularly useful for multitasking, such as planning a daily schedule or managing multiple conversations.



Socio-emotional cognition enables people to recognize and interpret emotions in themselves and others. This ability is crucial for maintaining appropriate social behavior and responding to situations effectively. 



When pollution affects these functions, it can lead to misinterpretations, reduced impulse control, and difficulties in navigating social settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-on-air-pollution-and-the-brain">Research on air pollution and the brain</h2>



The study highlights the importance of investigating the long-term effects of air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-is-fueling-more-intense-and-dangerous-thunderstorms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> on cognitive function. 



While this research focused on short-term exposure, continuous exposure in heavily polluted areas may have more severe and lasting consequences. Vulnerable populations, such as children and older adults, could be at even greater risk.



“This study shows the importance of understanding the impacts of air pollution on cognitive function and the need to study the influences of different sources of pollution on brain health in vulnerable older members of society,” noted Professor Gordon McFiggans from the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Manchester</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impact-of-air-pollution">Health impact of air pollution</h2>



Air pollution is the leading environmental health risk worldwide, contributing to millions of premature deaths each year. It has long been associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, but its impact on the brain is becoming an area of increasing concern.



Exposure to pollutants like PM2.5 has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. The long-term cognitive decline associated with air pollution could further strain healthcare systems and lead to a lower quality of life for affected individuals.



PM2.5 is particularly harmful due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, affecting various organs, including the brain. In 2015 alone, PM2.5 exposure contributed to an estimated 4.2 million deaths worldwide. 



To mitigate these risks, the World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>) recommends keeping 24-hour PM2.5 levels below 15 μg/m³ and annual levels below 5 μg/m³.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stricter-air-quality-regulations-are-needed">Stricter air quality regulations are needed</h2>



Given the clear evidence linking air pollution to cognitive impairment, stricter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> regulations are needed to protect public health.



Governments and policymakers must address pollution sources, enforce emission controls, and promote cleaner technologies.



Public awareness also plays a crucial role. Individuals can take steps to minimize their exposure by avoiding high-traffic areas, using air purifiers, and advocating for cleaner urban environments. While personal measures help, systemic changes are needed to ensure lasting improvements in air quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-the-brain-from-air-pollution">Protecting the brain from air pollution</h2>



This study provides new insights into how even short-term exposure to air pollution can affect mental functions essential for daily life. From reduced focus to difficulties in emotional interpretation, these cognitive effects highlight the hidden dangers of polluted air.



More research is needed to fully understand the long-term implications, especially for vulnerable groups. In the meantime, stricter regulations and proactive public health initiatives can help reduce exposure and protect cognitive health. 



The findings serve as a reminder that clean air is not just a luxury - it is a necessity for maintaining brain function and overall well-being.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-56508-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Air pollution weakens brain function and focus in daily tasks

Air pollution is often linked to respiratory diseases, heart problems,...

Emissions from coal combustion are casting a shadow over India's agricultural sector, and threatening the nation’s role as a major hub for global food security.



As the world’s second-most populous country, India relies heavily on rice and wheat production to sustain its population and export markets. However, pollutants from coal-fired power stations are having a negative impact on crop yields.



According to a recent study, coal emissions may be responsible for a significant decrease (of 10% or more) in the annual yield of these two staple grains. This means that the nutritional security of a quarter of the world’s undernourished population could be threatened.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-trade-offs-of-coal-emissions">The trade-offs of coal emissions</h2>



The goal of the study was not merely to highlight a problem, but to navigate the complexities of India's energy demands in connection with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/locust-swarms-threaten-food-security-for-millions-of-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a>.



Study lead author Kirat Singh, a Ph.D. student in environment and resources in the <a href="https://sustainability.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doerr School of Sustainability</a>, described the motivation for this study.



"We wanted to understand the impact of India's coal electricity emissions on its agriculture because there might be real trade-offs between meeting growing electricity demand with coal generation and maintaining food security," said Singh. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-coal-emissions-for-better-harvests">Reducing coal emissions for better harvests</h2>



Considerable effort has been devoted in the past to quantify the health-related repercussions of burning coal for electricity. 



However, prior to this study, the specific implications for crop production - especially in relation to India's dependence on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coal-fired-power-generation-weakened-by-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal-fired</a> power stations for more than 70% of its electricity - were left unexplored.



"Crop productivity is incredibly important to India's food security and economic prospects," noted study senior author David Lobell. 



"We've known that improved air quality could help agriculture, but this study is the first to drill down to a specific sector and measure the potential benefits of reducing emissions." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deeper-insight-into-crop-damage">Deeper insight into crop damage</h2>



The study was focused on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-breakthrough-g7-commits-to-close-coal-plants-by-2035/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal-powered</a> stations, and evaluated their impact on rice and wheat production.



By compiling data from electricity generation at 144 power stations across India, wind direction records, and satellite-measured nitrogen dioxide levels over croplands, the researchers provided a detailed picture of the situation.



According to their findings, eliminating pollution from burning coal during vital growing seasons could potentially increase the value of the rice output by approximately $420 million and the wheat output by $400 million annually.



“Any policy focused on reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-co2-emissions-reached-unprecedented-highs-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emissions</a> from coal power plants in India will be ignoring a crucial part of the problem if it does not consider the damages from air pollution to agriculture," said Inês Azevedo, a co-author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-benefits-of-cutting-coal-emissions">Unseen benefits of cutting coal emissions</h2>



The findings indicate that reducing coal emissions may yield more substantial and widely distributed benefits than previously recognized.



While past studies have primarily focused on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-cardiopulmonary-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health hazards of air pollution</a>, this study highlights the importance of considering agricultural damage as well.



The analysis showed that, while the monetary value of lost crop output is generally lower than the mortality damage caused by coal emissions, the intensity of crop damage per unit of electricity generated can be even higher.



At 58 of the 144 power stations studied, rice yield losses per gigawatt-hour exceeded mortality damages, and at 35 stations, wheat damage followed the same pattern. 



This suggests that, in many regions, targeted reductions in coal emissions could provide more immediate relief to agricultural productivity than previously assumed.



“It’s rare to find a single thing - in this case, reducing coal emissions - that would help agriculture so quickly and so much,” said Lobell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-production-and-public-health">Food production and public health</h2>



Moreover, the findings indicate little overlap between the power stations causing the most severe crop losses and those linked to the highest mortality rates. 



This means that well-placed policy interventions could optimize benefits, and deliver significant increases in food production along with improvements in public health and climate change mitigation.



By considering crop losses alongside health impacts when regulating coal electricity emissions, policymakers could unlock a powerful opportunity for economic and environmental gains. 



“Well-targeted policies to cut emissions could deliver thousands of dollars of increased crop output for each clean gigawatt-hour, in addition to all the climate and human health benefits,” said Singh.



Ultimately, the study reinforces the need for a more integrated approach to energy and environmental policy - one that fully accounts for the multifaceted benefits of reducing coal pollution.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2421679122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Coal emissions threaten India's food security

Emissions from coal combustion are casting a shadow over India's...

A new biomedical robot measuring just 0.95 millimeters (roughly 0.04 inches) in diameter has captured attention across the medical community. It is 60 percent smaller than similar instruments currently in use and promises more precise, minimally invasive surgery.



The tiny device has been developed at the School of Engineering of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology <a href="https://seng.hkust.edu.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(HKUST)</a>. The research team was led by Yajing Shen, an associate professor in the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering.



The scientists tackled the challenge of creating a tool that combines ultra-compact size with fine-tuned navigation and various therapeutic functions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smaller-robot-with-fewer-surgery-risks">Smaller robot with fewer surgery risks</h2>



The mini-robot can traverse tiny corridors, including those found in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-covid-19-virus-travels-deep-inside-our-lungs/">bronchi of the lungs</a> and the fallopian tubes. Physicians often struggle to deliver interventions in these slender regions, so this petite structure could expand diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities significantly.



It performs tasks such as laser ablation, tissue sampling, and drug delivery at the exact sites that need attention. Researchers see this as a potential method to reduce surgical damage and accelerate patient recovery.



Experts in robotics emphasize that smaller instruments pose fewer risks of injuring sensitive tissues. Delicate pathways can then be probed without large incisions or cumbersome endoscopes that obscure surgical views.



Such a shift could improve doctors’ ability to treat conditions early, particularly in organs with branching passages. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-robot-could-revolutionize-breast-cancer-diagnosis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early access</a> often means swift actions and better treatment outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiny-yet-powerful-robot">Tiny yet powerful robot</h2>



This ultra-compact surgical robot features multiple advanced components that work together in one tight layout. An optical fiber assembly captures images, while a microscopic 3D printing process produces a hollow skeleton that holds fibers and tools.



The engineers have coated it using a special magnetic spray technique, such that a functionalized skin is formed. This allows magnetic steering from outside the patient, which gives physicians a non-invasive way to guide the device.



A thin, gel layer covers the exterior to decrease friction and ensure smooth travel of the robot through winding channels. All of these steps aim to keep the robot tiny yet powerful.



At less than 0.04 inches across, it fits into places that many clinicians have never been able to reach with standard instruments, thus addressing a longstanding problem in surgical technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endoscopic-images-and-surgical-precision">Endoscopic images and surgical precision</h2>



In addition to its petite form, the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55199-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">device</a> achieves approximately 30 micrometers of positional accuracy. This level of control helps surgeons target precise spots without straying into surrounding tissues.



Along with its accuracy, the robot detects blockages at distances up to about 9.4 millimeters (0.37 inches). This figure is roughly a tenfold increase over older endoscopic robots, which often fell short when navigating or scanning for obstructions.



In addition, a broad field of view - around 25 times larger than some conventional systems - lets doctors gather detailed images from a single vantage point. This is particularly useful in branching areas where strong visual feedback is needed to prevent collisions or misplacements.



Such imaging and obstacle detection capacities are crucial when weaving through body structures that branch unpredictably. Enhanced awareness can give physicians more confidence in exploring these obscure regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lab-evaluations-and-real-tissue-tests">Lab evaluations and real tissue tests</h2>



The researchers assessed the robot in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/in-vitro-studies#:~:text=In%20vitro%20studies%20in%20experimental,From%3A%20Animal%20Biotechnology%2C%202014" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in vitro studies</a> of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34547790/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bronchial networks</a>, and confirmed smooth motion control. They then tested it on extracted pig lungs, and found it could gather images and perform minor treatments where standard scopes struggle.



“Small-scale continuum robots hold promise for interventional diagnosis and treatment, yet existing models often struggle with compactness, precise navigation, and visualized functional treatment all in one,” said Professor Shen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-for-specialized-treatments">Opportunities for specialized treatments</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-diagnoses-heart-attacks-in-minutes-not-hours/">Early detection</a> often means better outcomes for patients. By traveling into narrow organ branches, doctors might detect infections, tumors, or other anomalies that were previously difficult to reach.



With local drug delivery, the therapy remains concentrated in the area of the target, thus sparing the rest of the body from unnecessary exposure. Such specificity may reduce medication dosages and side effects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-surgical-burdens">Reducing surgical burdens</h2>



Smaller incisions generally mean less pain, lower infection risk, and quicker healing. The robot could decrease surgery trauma by limiting how much tissue is moved or cut.



Once inside, it can complete multiple tasks in one session, limiting the need for additional procedures. This efficiency could save time for patients and clinics alike.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-to-clinical-acceptance">Path to clinical acceptance</h2>



The research team hopes to conduct <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/in-vivo-studies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in vivo studies</a> next. They aim to confirm whether the robot can navigate real physiological conditions with the same level of agility.



“We aim to further optimize the design and control of the fiberscopic robot, prioritizing safety and reliability during interventional surgery,” said Dr. Zhang Tieshan, a postdoctoral fellow at HKUST. 



Fine-tuning the technology will help doctors integrate it seamlessly into everyday practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-the-robot-for-surgery">Testing the robot for surgery</h2>



In the long-term, experts predict that more integrated features could be added, such as advanced imaging modes, automated motion guidance and specialized accessories. 



These extra elements could expand the range of possible interventions without increasing the robot's size.



Any improvements would, however, have to undergo careful testing to confirm they are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanotech-material-graphene-passes-human-safety-tests/">safe for human use</a>.



Progress in material science and software development could also improve durability, navigation algorithms, and data processing. If tests results match the early promise, hospitals may adopt these tools to enhance their standards of care.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55199-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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World's smallest robot could transform minimally invasive surgery

A new biomedical robot measuring just 0.95 millimeters (roughly 0.04...

Researchers have uncovered a surprising behavior in boron-doped <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diamonds-can-be-grown-in-a-lab-in-less-than-3-hours/">diamonds</a>, where electrons line up in collective waves that interact with light and electricity in ways that scientists did not think possible.



The discovery involves a special process in which boron atoms are introduced into the diamond structure, thus transforming an otherwise insulating crystal into a conductor while keeping much of its clarity intact.



This milestone could open fresh possibilities in the fields of quantum computing and advanced sensors. 



The research was coordinated by <a href="https://physics.case.edu/faculty/giuseppe-strangi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Giuseppe Strangi </a>from Case Western Reserve University, who oversaw the experiments that brought these unusual electronic waves into the spotlight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peeking-into-electronic-waves">Peeking into electronic waves</h2>



Scientists explain that doping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pink-diamonds-were-formed-when-supercontinent-nuna-broke-up/">diamond with boron</a> creates “electronic holes” where an electron is missing. This vacancy can freely move through the crystal and carry current, which is why boron-doped diamond can conduct electricity while still maintaining its transparent appearance.



“These holes can also respond collectively to incoming light. This discovery changes our approach to manipulating light and electricity in materials, bringing us closer to the full potential of quantum technologies,” explained Strangi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interval-plasmons-and-their-allure">Interval plasmons and their allure</h2>



Researchers refer to these special electron waves as interval <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/plasmon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plasmons</a>. Conventional metals exhibit similar phenomena, but metals are not transparent and tend to reflect light.



Diamond stands apart because it remains optically clear, allowing these waves to form without blocking light. 



This aspect could be used in next-generation quantum devices that rely on manipulating and detecting faint signals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-computing-inspiration">Quantum computing inspiration</h2>



Diamond has long been used in cutting-edge applications, especially for quantum technologies. Boron doping adds an extra layer of interest, with these newly observed interval plasmons potentially suggesting new ways to control and transfer quantum information.



<a href="https://www.si.edu/spotlight/hope-diamond/history" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hope Diamond</a> is famous for its blue color, which arises partly from traces of boron. That same impurity can now be harnessed for more advanced tasks, possibly including future developments in quantum chips and secure communication networks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-medical-and-sensing-benefits">Medical and sensing benefits</h2>



A boron-doped diamond can tolerate harsh environments because it is chemically inert. This stability means it can endure strong acids or high temperatures, making it suitable for medical imaging devices and sensitive detection tools.



“Understanding how doping alters the properties of semiconductors like diamond revolutionizes the way we design materials for advanced applications,” pointed out <a href="https://npre.illinois.edu/people/profile/rmohan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mohan Sankaran</a>, a nuclear and plasma engineering expert at the University of Illinois.



Researchers worked with sophisticated spectroscopy tools, which helped them identify the exact conditions that give rise to these plasmons. The interplay between electrical conductivity and optical clarity made the effort worthwhile.



These findings might influence other high-performance devices. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/floating-solar-panels-could-power-entire-countries/">Solar cell technology </a>could benefit from the unique combination of transparency and electrical conduction, potentially improving the collection of light and its conversion into electricity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-difficulties-in-measuring">Difficulties in measuring</h2>



Precise control of boron concentration remains a hurdle. Achieving the perfect ratio without reducing transparency or damaging the crystal structure of the diamond requires careful tuning on the microscopic level.



Measuring interval plasmons also demands specialized equipment, and the complexity adds another layer to the engineering challenge. Scientists believe these obstacles can be overcome with improvements in synthesis methods.



Boron-doped diamond research has strong links to miniaturized electronics, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossible-quantum-effects-observed-atoms-positioned-closely-together/">quantum effects</a> become more relevant as devices shrink. 



Traditional materials often lose their appeal when size moves toward the nanoscale, but diamond may hold on to its advantages.



The conduction behavior, combined with optical clarity, is inspiring new designs in quantum circuits. These circuits are designed to run faster and more securely, ultimately helping data processing push beyond conventional limitations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-diamond-synthesis">Legacy of diamond synthesis</h2>



In the 1960s, researchers at Case Western Reserve laid important groundwork by synthesizing diamond under low pressure. 



Such developments set the stage for the present doping breakthroughs, which bridge old theories with modern practical applications.



This latest advance shows how small tweaks in the diamond lattice can yield big dividends. The interplay between electrons and light, that once was hidden, is finally in plain view.



Scientists view the new findings as an encouraging path for other, wide-bandgap semiconductors. If boron can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-diamond-dust-reverse-global-warming-and-cool-the-planet/">enhance diamond</a> in this way, related techniques may boost materials like silicon carbide or gallium nitride in similar fashion.



Though commercial-scale applications may still be some distance down the road, researchers are optimistic.



They see new opportunities for biochips, imaging devices, and quantum technologies that rely on materials with long-term stability and precise control.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55353-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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"Doped" diamonds discovery may reshape quantum computing

Researchers have uncovered a surprising behavior in boron-doped diamonds, where...

Earth system models (ESMs) are essential tools for studying complex planetary processes, including interactions between the atmosphere and biosphere. These models help scientists and policymakers better understand climate change and its impacts.&nbsp;



However, improving the accuracy of Earth system models often requires gathering vast amounts of data - an effort that can take decades, if not centuries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-plant-data-for-climate-models-nbsp">Expanding plant data for climate models&nbsp;</h2>



A new study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41597-024-04254-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Scientific Data</a> presents a breakthrough approach to this challenge. The researchers have developed a method to bypass the need for extensive field data collection across all known tree species.&nbsp;



Instead, they leveraged evolutionary relationships between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-actively-shaped-earths-climate-cycle-throughout-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> to estimate key hydrologic traits, significantly expanding the data available for global climate modeling.



Study lead author James Knighton is an assistant professor in the <a href="https://uconn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Connecticut</a>’s Department of Natural Resources and the Environment.



Pablo Sanchez-Martinez from the University of Edinburgh and Leander Anderegg from the University of California Santa Barbara are co-authors of the study.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-plants-in-water-movement">The role of plants in water movement</h2>



Plants play a fundamental role in Earth’s environmental systems, from capturing carbon and producing oxygen to influencing the movement of water across ecosystems.&nbsp;



According to Knighton, an estimated 60% of all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-changing-rainfall-patterns-impact-plants-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rainwater</a> is returned to the atmosphere through plant transpiration, a process that moves water from soil to air through plant tissues.



This water movement is currently represented in ESMs in a simplified manner, often grouping plants into broad categories called Plant Functional Types (PFTs).



“Plant Functional Types (PFTs) are used because we don’t know a lot about the details of individual plant species,” Knighton explained. “It would be harder to take a detailed map of vegetation over a continent and put in all the right values for each individual species, so it’s easier just to consider one generic PFT.”



While PFTs provide a manageable approach for modeling, they overlook key differences in plant hydrologic traits - such as root depth, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-cycles-through-plants-with-unexpected-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> transport efficiency, and transpiration rates - that can significantly affect climate projections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-climate-models">A new approach to climate models</h2>



To improve the representation of plant traits in climate models, scientists have built databases like the <a href="https://www.try-db.org/TryWeb/Home.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRY Plant Trait Database</a>, which compiles field measurements of plant characteristics. However, progress in cataloging traits has been slow.



“There are around 60,000 to 70,000 tree species on Earth, meaning that after 200 years, we know maybe 5 to 10% of what’s happening,” noted Knighton.&nbsp;



“If that were the way we would do things, it would take us another 2,000 years or so to learn about all the plants that we needed to, and at that point, climate change has set in, and it’s too late.”



Given the urgency of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-models-underestimate-sea-ice-melt-and-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate modeling</a>, waiting for field researchers to collect direct measurements is not a viable solution. Instead, Knighton and his colleagues devised a faster method to estimate missing plant traits using evolutionary relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-evolution-to-predict-hydrologic-traits">Using evolution to predict hydrologic traits</h2>



To address the knowledge gap, the researchers turned to phylogenetics, the study of evolutionary relationships between species. They examined available trait data - such as tree height, root depth, and water transport speed - across known species and then analyzed how closely related species share these traits.



“We looked to see how similar trait values are between closely related species, and the idea behind that is, if these traits are critical for their survival, evolution will have preserved the trait values, they won’t be randomly dispersed,” Knighton explained.&nbsp;



“For example, if growing deep roots was critical for a certain type of plant to survive, the species that branch off from that one will probably also have deep roots, and everything that’s in that family or that genus will have a similar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/autophagy-what-makes-plant-roots-grow-faster-stronger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">root structure</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-data-for-thousands-of-tree-species-nbsp">Missing data for thousands of tree species&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers found that hydrologic traits are highly conserved across evolutionary lineages, meaning that closely related species tend to have similar characteristics. This discovery enabled them to predict missing data for over 55,000 tree species by inferring trait values from their known relatives.



“We used different numerical machine learning techniques, and in doing that, we were able to come up with a database of these very critical tree values for 55,000 tree species on Earth,” Knighton said.&nbsp;



This approach allows modelers to move beyond the oversimplified PFT system, providing a much more detailed representation of plant diversity in climate simulations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-estimated-plant-traits">Confirming the estimated plant traits</h2>



While the research marks a major step forward, the scientists acknowledge that their method represents a first approximation. The next phase of their work involves validating the estimated traits against real-world observations.



“We consider this work to be a low-order approximation, but it is an important starting point,” Knighton explained. “As more data is collected from field researchers, the data can be used to update and refine the interpolated data to improve the accuracy of this approach.”



To test their estimates, the researchers are comparing their predictions against observational data from 10 well-documented forest sites across the United States. 



Master’s student Caroline Stanton is currently constructing ecosystem models for each site and calibrating them with high-resolution plant trait data. 



These models will then be compared to field data collected over the past two decades to assess how well the inferred traits match real-world measurements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-tool-for-climate-simulation">A new tool for climate simulation</h2>



If successful, the method could be applied to forested ecosystems worldwide. Beyond simply improving climate models, the dataset could help scientists understand what drives variation in plant traits and how these variations affect global environmental processes.



“If you want to do global modeling that includes more detail in the vegetation, which is important, you now have a starting point,” Knighton emphasized.



By dramatically expanding the dataset available for climate simulations, this research provides a new tool for modelers, ecologists, and policymakers working to predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change.&nbsp;



With further refinement, it could play a key role in shaping more accurate forecasts of Earth’s future climate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water cycles</a>.



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Smarter climate models: How plants influence the water cycle

Earth system models (ESMs) are essential tools for studying complex...

If an extraterrestrial civilization existed with technology comparable to ours, would they be able to detect Earth and recognize evidence of human activity? If so, what signals would be most visible, and from how far away?



These thought-provoking questions have been explored in a new study led by Dr. Sofia Sheikh of the SETI Institute.



Using a theoretical, model-based approach, this research is the first to analyze multiple types of technosignatures - the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/searching-for-technosignatures-from-intelligent-life-in-the-cosmos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">indicators</a> of advanced technology - together, rather than examining them separately. 



The results suggest that radio signals, particularly planetary radar emissions from the now-defunct Arecibo Observatory, would be the most detectable human-made signatures. These signals are potentially visible from as far as 12,000 light-years away.



Other signals, such as atmospheric pollutants, could also be detected, though at significantly shorter distances.&nbsp;



As observational technology continues to improve, scientists may be able to identify similar signatures on distant exoplanets, offering new ways to search for intelligent extraterrestrial life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-most-detectable-signals">Earth’s most detectable signals</h2>



Among all of the potential signals emanating from Earth, radio transmissions appear to be the most prominent on a galactic scale.&nbsp;



Radio telescopes remain the primary tool for <a href="https://www.seti.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SETI</a> (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) research, as scientists scan the skies for unnatural radio waves that might originate from advanced civilizations.&nbsp;



Given the strength of Earth's planetary radar emissions, researchers hypothesize that if extraterrestrials use similar technology to search for signals, Earth might stand out as a detectable world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-atmospheric-technosignatures">Exploring atmospheric technosignatures</h2>



Beyond radio waves, the study explored atmospheric technosignatures, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutants</a> such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) - a byproduct of industrial activity.&nbsp;



Recent advances in space-based instruments, such as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the upcoming Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), could enable astronomers to detect such gases in exoplanet atmospheres.



According to the study’s findings, extraterrestrials equipped with similarly advanced telescopes could detect Earth's atmospheric pollutants from a maximum distance of 5.7 light-years, just beyond Proxima Centauri, the closest known exoplanetary system.



This suggests that industrial emissions could serve as an indirect way of identifying advanced civilizations. If scientists were to detect unusual levels of pollutants in an exoplanet’s atmosphere, it might hint at the presence of a technologically developed society.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-would-aliens-detect-on-earth">What would aliens detect on Earth?</h2>



As an observer approaches our planet, additional technosignatures become detectable. At closer distances, extraterrestrial astronomers would begin to detect multiple forms of human activity on Earth. 



City lights from urban centers could be visible from space. High-powered laser emissions used for communication, military applications, and scientific research would also be detectable. 



The thermal signature of cities, where artificial structures retain more heat than surrounding natural landscapes, would reveal urban heat islands. Additionally, the growing number of satellites and debris in Earth's orbit could be observed by advanced extraterrestrial telescopes.



Taken together, these overlapping signals would paint a compelling picture of an industrialized world, potentially making Earth one of the most recognizable planets to an alien observer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-earth-as-a-cosmic-mirror">Using Earth as a cosmic mirror</h2>



The experts emphasized that understanding Earth’s own technosignatures is critical for refining the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. By identifying which of our own signals are most detectable, researchers can better anticipate what kinds of signatures to look for on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-discovery-nasa-identifies-over-5500-distant-worlds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>.



Study co-author Macy Huston is a postdoctoral researcher at UC Berkeley’s Department of Astronomy.



“Our goal with this project was to bring SETI back 'down to Earth' for a moment and think about where we really are today with Earth's technosignatures and detection capabilities,” explained Huston.&nbsp;



“In SETI, we should never assume other life and technology would be just like ours, but quantifying what 'ours' means can help put SETI searches into perspective.”



Sheikh echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing that studying Earth's own impact on its environment can provide valuable insights into how extraterrestrial civilizations might be identified.



“One of the most satisfying aspects of this work was getting to use SETI as a cosmic mirror: what does Earth look like to the rest of the galaxy? And how would our current impacts on our planet be perceived?” said Sheikh.



“While of course we cannot know the answer, this work allowed us to extrapolate and imagine what we might assume if we ever discover a planet with, say, high concentrations of pollutants in its atmosphere.”



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



SETI research has long focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-aliens-sending-radio-signals-to-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio signals</a> as the primary method for detecting extraterrestrial intelligence, but this study demonstrates the importance of a multi-wavelength approach - examining different forms of technosignatures across the electromagnetic spectrum.



Current and future telescopes will improve detection sensitivity, allowing scientists to expand the search for life beyond Earth. Advanced observatories may eventually identify new atmospheric technosignatures, such as alternative industrial pollutants or artificial climate alterations.



Additionally, long-term studies tracking the evolution of Earth's technosignatures may provide fresh insights into how civilizations modify their environments over time.



As new space-based observatories come online and human activities continue to reshape Earth’s atmospheric composition, periodic reassessments of the planet's detectability could refine our approach to discovering extraterrestrial life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-nbsp-study">Implications of the&nbsp;study</h2>



Ultimately, this study highlights both the strengths and limitations of current SETI efforts. While Earth is highly detectable via radio waves, other technosignatures - such as pollution - would require relatively close proximity for extraterrestrials to observe.&nbsp;



As astronomers continue their search, understanding these limitations will help shape strategies for identifying distant technological civilizations.



Whether or not intelligent extraterrestrial beings are currently observing Earth, this research emphasizes the importance of looking outward to understand our place in the cosmos.



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If aliens could detect Earth from their planet, what would they see?

If an extraterrestrial civilization existed with technology comparable to ours,...

<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...

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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



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 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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