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...

Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a symphony of sounds and silence. A new study reveals that sound plays a critical and often overlooked role in how skateboarders interact with their craft.



Skateboarders not only see their environment but also feel and hear it. Images and videos may show the spectacular stunts, but they don't capture the whole experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-listening-to-the-streets">Listening to the streets</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/silent-mind-when-the-inner-voice-fades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sounds</a> and vibrations emanating from the urban surfaces – the "skatesound" - provide insights that are integral to the skateboarding experience.



These sounds enable skateboarders to verify the success of their maneuvers, evaluate the suitability of surfaces for skating, and function as a social cue. 



For some, the sensory stimulation of skateboarding can be therapeutic and a way to connect with their fellow skateboarders.



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



However, the study introduces an interesting concept - the "skatesound paradox."



Skateboarders are conscious of the intrusive nature of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-noise-increases-the-risk-of-hypertension/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noise</a> they produce and adjust their behavior accordingly in certain situations to minimize this disruption.



Surprisingly, skateboarders describe the sound of the sport as both abrasive and pleasant. 



For some, sound is an essential part of the experience, offering a therapeutic sensory aid, especially to those who identify as neurodiverse.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sound-of-inclusivity">The sound of inclusivity</h2>



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a>, conducted interviews with 18 adult skateboarders aged between 19 and 51 from diverse geographies and experience levels. 



The study revealed that skatesound was an inclusive experience, offering engagement for some who may feel excluded by more traditional and regulated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-who-play-team-sports-have-fewer-mental-health-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a>.



Dr. Paul O’Connor, one of the researchers, shared quotes from skateboarders who described the sound of skateboarding in sensory and graphic terms. 



They used expressions like "clattering," "an irritant," "rolling, rough, smooth tickling in my ear," and "rough and in your face. Loud in the best way."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-listening-to-feel-not-just-to-hear">Listening to feel, not just to hear</h2>



The research also highlights some heartening stories from the skateboarders. 



Alfie, a skilled skateboarder, spoke of how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-find-cultural-differences-in-how-we-interpret-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhythm</a> and flow of skatesound made him a more empathetic person, helping him deal with anxiety and increasing his self-awareness of his neurodiversity.



Interestingly, most of the skateboarders were against the idea of listening to music through headphones while skateboarding, viewing it as anti-social. 



The sport for them is a communal activity, and wearing headphones disrupts the connection with the group and the overall experience.



However, those who chose to listen to music through headphones while skateboarding had their reasons. 



Music helped with focus for some skateboarders, while headphones served as a social barrier for others - offering them an added layer of confidence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-auditory-canvas-of-skateboarding">The auditory canvas of skateboarding</h2>



The research sheds light on the underappreciated sensory element of skateboarding.



The study, led by Professor Brian Glenney and Dr. Max Boutin, revealed that the skateboard is not just a toy or sports object but an "ear beneath the feet."



Next time you hear the thrum of wheels on concrete and the clatter of a board hitting the pavement, consider the symphony of sounds that the skateboarders are attuning to. 



They're not simply making noise. Skateboarders are engaged in deep sensory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-our-brains-neurons-make-and-retrieve-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>, bonding with their friends, and perhaps, finding an unusual solace in an otherwise noisy world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skateboarding-as-a-sensory-experience">Skateboarding as a sensory experience</h2>



Skateboarding is more than a physical activity - it’s a full-body sensory experience. From the vibration of the board against their feet to the rhythmic sounds of wheels against the pavement, skateboarders operate through every possible use of their senses.



They feel what the deck feels, find resistance from the surface, and even pick up on subtle shifts in sound to find-tune their moves in real time.



For many, skateboarding is a unique way to engage with the world. Unlike other sports that rely heavily on visual cues, skateboarders develop a deep connection to their surroundings through sound and touch. 



The constant feedback loop between movement and skatesound not only sharpens their skills but also deepens their understanding of space, balance, and flow.



This heightened sensory awareness makes skateboarding more than just a sport - it is an art form, a venue for self-expression, and for some, even a form of therapy.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17430437.2024.2446115" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sport in Society</a>.



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Listening to the streets: Skateboarding is an experience shaped by sound

Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a symphony...

Humanity faces a crucial turning point in its relationship with nature. A new global report warns that biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate, and people must take immediate action to address the crisis.



Scientists emphasize that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-must-live-in-harmony-with-nature-to-create-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reconnecting with nature</a> can drive meaningful change. The Transformative Change Report highlights the steps required to shift societal values and behaviors for a more sustainable world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-relationship-with-nature">Our relationship with nature</h2>



The study, led by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (<a href="https://www.ipbes.net" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IPBES</a>), focuses on the underlying causes of environmental degradation. 



It explains how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-dual-crises-of-climate-and-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformation</a> occurs and provides guidance on how to accelerate it. The report gathers insights from over 100 experts across 42 countries, each bringing a unique perspective on safeguarding the planet.



Among the contributors is Professor Miles Richardson from the <a href="https://www.derby.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Derby</a>. As a UK Government-nominated lead author, he has played a vital role in shaping the report’s recommendations. 



His expertise in nature connectedness sheds light on how people’s relationship with the natural world can drive lasting change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-transformative-change">Need for transformative change</h2>



The report’s key message is both urgent and profound. A fundamental shift is needed in how society views and interacts with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-green-tech-ammonia-fertilizer-production-using-earths-natural-forces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>. Current efforts often focus on mitigating damage, but long-term sustainability requires deeper changes in values and priorities.



"I have always believed nature connectedness is an essential and powerful strategy for the transformative change needed to address the environmental crises," said Professor Richardson.



The experts emphasize the role of policy in mainstreaming nature connection. They suggest integrating it into education, healthcare, and urban planning.



Additionally, they explore the importance of storytelling in shaping public perception, encouraging people to imagine a future where humans and nature thrive together rather than one defined by restrictions and loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-positive-future-for-people-and-nature">A positive future for people and nature</h2>



The report identifies five key strategies for advancing sustainability. One focuses on restoring and regenerating places of cultural and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-can-prevent-future-pandemics-by-protecting-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological importance</a>. 



Another highlights the need to shift dominant societal views to recognize and prioritize human-nature relationships. Without such changes, sustainability efforts will remain incomplete.



"Shifting dominant societal views and values to recognize and prioritize human-nature connectedness is a massive undertaking. With the disconnection of people from nature identified as a central issue and nature connectedness as a solution, there might be more awareness and willingness to engage," noted Professor Richardson.



For decades, environmental policies have aimed to fix specific problems, such as deforestation and carbon emissions. While these efforts are important, they often fail to address the deeper issue - how humans perceive and interact with the natural world.



The report argues that true sustainability requires transforming this relationship at its core.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-the-nature-connection">Strengthening the nature connection</h2>



Scientific research plays a critical role in shaping policies and strategies that reconnect people with nature. The findings of the Transformative Change Report align with the ongoing work of the University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group.



Led by Professor Richardson, alongside researchers David Sheffield and Kirsten McEwan, the group explores ways to enhance nature connectedness in daily life.



The research focuses on practical interventions that help people develop a deeper appreciation for nature. 



By understanding the psychological and emotional aspects of this connection, the experts aim to create lasting behavioral change. Their work provides evidence-based solutions that support the report’s recommendations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-beyond-policy">Moving beyond policy</h2>



The report does not solely call for government-led interventions. It also highlights the role of individuals in driving change. 



Small shifts in daily habits, such as spending more time outdoors, appreciating natural beauty, and reducing consumption, can contribute to a larger transformation.



The report suggests that promoting a sense of nature connection in early childhood can have long-term benefits, influencing behaviors and attitudes across generations.



This perspective aligns with the work of the Nature Connectedness Research Group, which emphasizes practical approaches to deepening people’s relationship with nature. 



By making these ideas more accessible, the research group hopes to inspire broader participation in efforts to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-based-climate-solutions-are-now-more-critical-than-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protect the environment</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sustainable-future">A sustainable future</h2>



The <a href="https://www.ipbes.net/transformative-change/media-release" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Transformative Change Report</a> presents a clear vision for a more sustainable world. It highlights the importance of changing societal values, strengthening nature connectedness, and integrating these concepts into policy and daily life.



This moment presents a unique opportunity. While the challenges are significant, the solutions exist. By rethinking the way people relate to nature, humanity can take meaningful steps toward a healthier planet. 



The urgency is clear, but so is the potential for positive change. Reconnecting with nature is not just an option - it is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for all.



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People must reconnect with nature now to save biodiversity

Humanity faces a crucial turning point in its relationship with...

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal features in the United States. Beneath those colorful hot springs and spewing geysers sits a volcanic system that has captured the attention of geologists for decades.



Recent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">findings</a> discuss how molten material may one day break the surface in a corner of this ancient hotspot. 



According to Ninfa Bennington of the U.S. Geological Survey (<a href="https://www.usgs.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USGS</a>), new instruments revealed four distinct magma bodies beneath Yellowstone, yet only the northeastern one appears poised for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-next-big-volcano-eruption-will-cause-global-chaos-climate-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">far-future activity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-s-history-of-massive-eruptions">Yellowstone's history of massive eruptions</h2>



Researchers have long noted three massive eruptions in Yellowstone over roughly two million years. 



Those events left behind giant <a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/calderas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">calderas</a>, which are vast volcanic depressions formed when large volumes of magma empty and cause the ground to collapse.



Such colossal blasts are uncommon, so experts analyze lingering heat and rock structures to understand how these systems evolve. Each caldera tells a different part of the story, offering clues about what lies below.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-magma-deep-underground">Tracking magma deep underground</h2>



Specialists use <a href="https://epic.earthscope.org/content/instrumentation/magnetotelluric-systems-epic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetotelluric instruments</a> to detect electrical signals that reveal melted rock under the surface. 



The devices measure conductivity, allowing scientists to map <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/axial-seamount-large-underwater-volcano-off-us-coast-will-likely-erupt-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma zones</a> without drilling. This approach pinpoints subterranean areas where molten rock might accumulate.



"We find that rhyolitic melts are stored in segregated regions beneath the caldera," wrote Bennington, the study's lead author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northeastern-magma-body">Northeastern magma body</h2>



Among the identified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-and-trees-predict-volcano-eruptions-when-viewed-from-space-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> bodies, only the one in Yellowstone's northeast <a href="https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sector</a> is expected to retain enough heat to stay partially molten long-term. 



This discovery refines older ideas that suggested multiple areas could erupt in the distant future.



"We suggest that the locus of future <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/rhyolite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rhyolitic volcanism</a> has shifted to northeast Yellowstone Caldera," noted Bennington. This statement pinpoints a new center of potential volcanic action in Yellowstone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-yellowstone-compares-to-others">How Yellowstone compares to others</h2>



Yellowstone isn't the only place on Earth with massive magma systems. In Indonesia, <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-a-supervolcano-what-a-supereruption" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supervolcano</a> Toba erupted about 74,000 years ago, leading to significant global impacts.



Scientists compare Yellowstone with Toba and other large volcanic fields to see how deeply buried <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magma</a> behaves over time. 



Each site adds pieces to the broader puzzle of predicting when and how these forces might surface.



Forecasting eruptions is a complex challenge. Experts watch seismic tremors, ground changes, and chemical signals to catch early warnings of magma movement.



Groups like the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/observatories/yvo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yellowstone Volcano Observatory</a> share real-time updates to help the public stay informed. They typically see low-level unrest, which doesn't point to any immediate threat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-eruption-fears-vs-facts">Yellowstone eruption: Fears vs. facts</h2>



Rumors about sudden cataclysms occasionally circulate. Geologists stress that supervolcano-scale eruptions require specific conditions that rarely align.



Communities near Yellowstone benefit from ongoing research that tracks small shifts in the system. This work helps reduce uncertainty and shows that colossal events happen on geological - not human - timelines.



Continued advances in imaging technology and field observations refine our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supervolcano-italy-solfatara-crater-phlegraean-fields-shows-signs-of-waking-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of underground processes</a>. 



By mapping details more precisely, researchers can spot temperature and pressure variations that might foreshadow bigger changes.



Experts emphasize that no single method gives a perfect forecast. Instead, multiple tools create a fuller view, improving how we interpret rumblings beneath our feet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-supervolcanoes-erupt">When supervolcanoes erupt</h2>



When a supervolcano erupts, it blasts huge amounts of ash, gas, and lava high into the atmosphere, which then spread across vast regions of the planet. 



This ash can disrupt daily life in many ways by affecting air quality, water supplies, and transportation, to name just a few.



On a global scale, the eruption <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-winters-weakened-the-dinosaurs-before-the-asteroid-hit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cools the Earth's climate</a> by blocking sunlight with thick layers of ash and sulfur dioxide. 



This cooling effect, sometimes called a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-cooling-not-warming-caused-a-major-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic winter</a>," can lead to shorter growing seasons and widespread crop failures, affecting food supplies around the world. 



The climate shifts and environmental stress might even trigger economic and social disruptions as governments and communities adapt to the new conditions.



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



Some wonder if the northeastern sector will pose a risk anytime soon. Most geologists say it's a far-off scenario measured in thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of years.



Still, pinpointing that region offers a step toward more focused hazard assessments. Future drilling or additional surveys may provide clues to how heat flows and magma shifts under Yellowstone's surface.



Each study enhances our understanding of how supervolcanoes work. Comparing data worldwide helps gauge the intervals between major eruptions, giving communities perspective on the pace of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-volcanic-past-reveals-the-shocking-reality-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geologic change</a>.



Investigations like these highlight how Earth remains active in places we least expect. This hidden energy feeds geysers and hot springs now, and might shape landscapes in ways we can only imagine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standing-on-a-sleeping-giant">Standing on a sleeping giant</h2>



Millions of visitors roam Yellowstone's trails every year, drawn by dramatic scenery and wildlife. Few realize they're walking above a deep reservoir that, while dormant, still holds potential power.



Researchers remain cautious about definitive forecasts but appreciate this deeper glimpse into where future volcanic eruptions could arise in Yellowstone. 



Lessons learned from this site might guide how we monitor volcanic regions across the globe.



Current measurements reinforce that no sudden explosion is expected soon. The findings merely shine light on the structure of the system and indicate that the northeastern sector might be the stage for the next chapter.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08286-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Yellowstone supervolcano study sparks new debate on where and when it will erupt

Yellowstone National Park boasts some of the most iconic geothermal...

Legends about a boiling, scalding river that roasts anything that falls inside may sound like fiction. Yet nestled in the Peruvian rainforest, a curious waterway <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/andres_ruzo_the_boiling_river_of_the_amazon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proves</a> these stories are far from mythical.



Its waters can reach 210°F, a temperature that can cause severe burns within seconds. For decades, local communities spoke of a place so hot that small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cold-shocks-in-the-amazon-how-do-wild-animals-respond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals perish</a> upon touching its surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-boiling-river-in-peru">The "Boiling River" in Peru</h2>



The "Boiling River" is located in the Mayantuyacu region of central Peru. The river’s length is around 4 miles, and it can be up to about 20 feet wide in some sections.



A team of scientists led by <a href="https://www.rileyfortier.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Riley Fortier</a>, a graduate student at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, surveyed 70 sites along this tributary. 



"It really provides us a window into the future because the Amazon will get hotter whether we like it or not, so this allows us to understand what increases in temperature will do to the forest composition," said Riley Fortier, lead author on a study of the site published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>, and a graduate student in professor Kenneth Feeley's <a href="https://www.junglebiology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jungle Biology lab</a>.



The team wanted to see how extreme heat shapes the surrounding forest.



By mapping the tree and plant species from cooler upstream areas down to the scalding heart of the river, they discovered a startling drop in biological variety. 



Findings <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">showed</a> an 11% decline in biodiversity for each 1.8°F rise in average temperature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-boiling-river-boils">Why the boiling river boils</h2>



Geoscientists attribute the heat to fault-fed activity, where underground water channels meet Earth’s geothermal energy. 



A fault is a <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-a-fault-and-what-are-different-types" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large fracture</a> in the crust that provides a direct path for scorching fluid to surge toward the surface.



Researchers believe that rainwater infiltrating sedimentary rock becomes superheated below ground. It then emerges as a system of hot springs converging with the main watercourse, creating a natural cauldron.



“You stick your hand in, and you will see second or third degree burns in a matter of seconds,” said Ruzo, who first measured the river’s peak heat. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-changing-forests">Signs of changing forests</h2>



Many local inhabitants regard the site with deep respect because anything that wanders too close risks a painful encounter.



Certain plants thrive on the fringes, but most large creatures struggle with the sweltering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-microbes-in-amazon-peatlands-help-balance-the-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a>. Adaptations are limited for organisms facing water that can reach coffee-brewing temperatures.



"Overall, the tree community is less diverse, so we see fewer species in hotter spots," Fortier said. "And forest composition was also more homogenous in the warmest locations, whereas in cooler forest plots, there was more plant diversity."



Botanical surveys from cooler sections toward the hotter stretches revealed how tree diversity narrows. In place of thick canopies, the research team documented more scrubby <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforest-trees-use-rivers-as-highways-for-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vegetation</a>.



"Over the course of dozens of miles, you might expect to see dramatic changes like that, but in the small sampling area that we had, you typically wouldn't see such a clear change in composition," Fortier added.



Small species adapted to drought-like conditions gained ground as the mercury rose. Larger, slower-growing trees faded away, reflecting how intense heat reshapes even lush ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boiling-rivers-and-future-climate">Boiling rivers and future climate</h2>



Fortier’s data suggest that as worldwide temperatures climb, similar shifts could spread across other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-amazon-rainforest-is-approaching-widespread-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowland rainforests</a>.



Changes may include declines in species that cannot handle additional heat and a rise in those more comfortable with higher temperatures.



Scientists note that an environment featuring fewer tree varieties will likely support fewer types of animals too. The loss of one group often sends ripples through the entire food web.



The boiling tributary, known locally as <a href="https://shanaytimpishka.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shanay-Timpishka</a>, meaning “boiled with the heat of the sun,” stands as a stark example of what could happen if average temperatures continue to climb. 



Areas that were once rich in wildlife may morph into simpler, drier landscapes. Observers hope that studying this natural hotspot will inspire careful planning to protect sensitive habitats. 



Even though the river is unique, it signals what may lie ahead for places currently seen as safe havens for biodiversity.



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



Researchers plan to gather long-term data and explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-40-of-climate-critical-amazon-rainforest-is-unprotected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flora and fauna</a> can adapt to persistently higher temperatures. They will also watch for signs of any species shifting to cooler pockets.



Some scientists are examining whether the warming patterns near this location might parallel broader trends in tropical zones. 



They predict that more forests around the globe could face intense thermal stress, forcing communities to adapt or relocate.



Feeley's lab will continue its research of the boiling river, since it is such a unique place that could portend much about our natural world.



"You can't heat a whole forest, at least not artificially, which is one of the coolest aspects of the boiling river," Fortier added.



The study is published in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/gcb.17555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.



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One river in the Amazon rainforest is so hot that it literally boils, destroying nearby biodiversity

Legends about a boiling, scalding river that roasts anything that...

Over the past thirty years, astronomers have identified more than 7,000 planets outside of our solar system - a remarkable leap since the first exoplanet discovery in 1995. Yet, researchers estimate that countless more remain undetected in our galaxy alone. 



In this context, a team of scientists has confirmed the existence of a potentially habitable super-Earth named HD 20794 d.&nbsp;



The study represents a key step in exoplanetology’s ongoing shift from merely detecting planets to investigating their features, particularly conditions that might support life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-this-super-earth">Significance of this super-Earth</h2>



Exoplanetary science has advanced significantly since Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz discovered the first planet orbiting a star other than our Sun in 1995. This achievement earned them the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics.&nbsp;



Today, it is broadly accepted that most stars have at least one orbiting planet. Scientists are now concentrating on more nuanced questions, such as identifying characteristics that make a world amenable to life.&nbsp;



In this regard, the confirmation of super-Earth HD 20794 d introduces a planetary system that could allow scientists to test their theories of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary formation</a>, climate models, and the processes tied to biological emergence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hd-20794-d-in-the-habitable-zone">HD 20794 d in the habitable zone</h2>



A super-Earth is a planet that is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-earth-discovered-in-the-habitable-zone-of-its-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger than Earth</a> but smaller than gas giants like Neptune. HD 20794 d occupies a system that includes two other planets, all revolving around a G-type star (similar to our Sun) at a distance of approximately 19.7 light-years.



Study co-author Xavier Dumusque is a senior lecturer and researcher in the Department of Astronomy at the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a> (UNIGE)



“HD 20794, around which HD 20794 d orbits, is not an ordinary star,” noted Dumusque. “Its luminosity and proximity makes it an ideal candidate for future telescopes whose mission will be to observe the atmospheres of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-discovery-nasa-identifies-over-5500-distant-worlds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a> directly.”



Among the planet’s most intriguing features is its eccentric orbit, causing HD 20794 d to oscillate between the inner edge of its star’s habitable zone at 0.75 astronomical units (AU) and extending outwards to 2 AU.&nbsp;



Such an orbital path could allow for periods in which surface temperatures might be suitable for liquid water, although the planet’s distance from the star varies significantly over the course of its 647-day year.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-habitable-zone">Exploring the habitable zone</h2>



In astronomy, the habitable zone describes the span around a star where conditions could permit liquid water to persist. 



For stars like the Sun or HD 20794, this zone typically lies between 0.7 and 1.5 AU, encompassing the orbits of Earth and Mars in our solar system. 



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="zJchJoKMVx-4277975-12187" type="single"]</div>



HD 20794 d completes its orbit just shy of two Earth years, placing it well within reach of conditions that might harbor life.



According to the researchers, the planet's oscillation into and out of the habitable zone provides an exciting scenario for studying how planetary climates evolve and whether they can sustain liquid water.



If liquid water exists, the planet’s elliptical orbit would likely cause it to freeze at greater distances, then thaw as it approaches the star - offering a natural laboratory to examine how temperature fluctuations affect potential habitability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-we-found-super-earth-hd-20794-d">How we found super-Earth HD 20794 d</h2>



Confirming the discovery of exoplanet HD 20794 d demanded two decades of meticulous observations using the world’s most sophisticated instruments. 



Among them are ESPRESSO and HARPS, high-precision spectrographs that are critical in detecting subtle signals from exoplanets. 



The researchers also used YARARA, an advanced data-reduction algorithm developed at UNIGE, to filter out noise that had previously concealed any signs of the planet.



“We analyzed the data for years, carefully eliminating sources of contamination,” explained Michael Cretignier, a postdoctoral researcher at <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a> and co-author of the paper.&nbsp;



YARARA enabled the team to isolate the signals of HD 20794 d from the background noise. The result is a clearer understanding of the planet’s orbit and an emerging picture of what could be a potentially life-supporting environment.



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



Because of its location and the brightness of its star, HD 20794 d stands out as a target for upcoming observational campaigns and missions.&nbsp;



Scientists plan to employ telescopes such as the ANDES spectrograph on ESO’s Extremely Large Telescope (<a href="https://elt.eso.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ELT</a>) to probe its atmosphere, looking for biosignatures like oxygen or methane. 



If these molecules are detected, they could indicate biological processes similar to those on Earth.



In the meantime, the Center for Life in the Universe (<a href="https://www.unige.ch/sciences/cvu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CVU</a>) at UNIGE’s Faculty of Science is already investigating this planet’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitable-worlds-new-strategy-to-identify-planets-that-may-host-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a>. 



The experts are integrating diverse scientific disciplines to explore conditions that might allow life to arise and flourish on exoplanets.



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



Exoplanet HD 20794 d offers a revealing case study of a super-Earth occupying a shifting seat at the edge of its star’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-our-galaxys-planets-could-be-habitable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitable zone</a>. 



The research expands the horizon of exoplanetary science, reinforcing the notion that the universe may contain abundant worlds capable of supporting life. 



Each exoplanet discovery brings us closer to understanding the processes that give rise to habitable environments.



While multiple barriers remain - most notably, the need for more advanced observation techniques and sustained interdisciplinary collaboration - HD 20794 d stands as a powerful reminder of how far exoplanet exploration has progressed.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202451769" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a>,&nbsp;



Video Credit: © Gabriel Pérez Díaz, SMM (IAC)



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"Super-Earth" found just 20 light-years away is our best chance so far to find alien life

Over the past thirty years, astronomers have identified more than...

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped nearly every aspect of daily life, leaving no one untouched. While much of the focus has been on how adults adapted to remote work or how school-aged children coped with virtual learning, one group remained largely in the shadows: preschool children. 



These young learners, aged six and under, experienced profound disruptions to their routines as daycare centers closed, playdates vanished, and families retreated into isolation. 



Yet, until recently, little attention was paid to how these changes might have impacted their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-profoundly-impairs-childrens-cognitive-abilities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive and social development</a>.



A recent study by researchers at <a href="https://www.ucmerced.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Merced</a> has now brought this overlooked issue into sharp focus, revealing startling insights into the effects of the pandemic on preschoolers’ social cognition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-s-cognitive-skills-after-pandemic">Children's cognitive skills after pandemic</h2>



Led by Rose Scott, a professor of developmental psychology, the research team stumbled upon their findings almost by accident. They had been collecting data on children’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soy-foods-boost-cognitive-abilities-and-attention-span-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive skills</a> before the pandemic hit. When they resumed testing after lockdowns ended, they noticed something alarming.



“It was remarkable to see the drop in kids’ performance,” said Professor Scott. “On one of the tasks in my lab, children tested before the pandemic could pass at 2 and a half years old. Right after the lockdowns, we were seeing 5-year-olds not passing it.”



This unexpected decline prompted the team to dig deeper, uncovering a significant gap in a key cognitive skill among children aged 3½ to 5½, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinguishing-thoughts-from-facts">Distinguishing thoughts from facts</h2>



At the heart of the study lies the concept of false-belief understanding - a cornerstone of social <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-autism-benefit-from-learning-multiple-languages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognition</a>. This skill allows children to recognize that others can hold beliefs different from reality.



False-belief understanding is a crucial step in distinguishing thoughts from facts. It plays a vital role in fostering cooperation, communication, and learning.



For instance, understanding that someone else might not know what you know enables children to navigate social interactions more effectively. Without this ability, tasks like sharing, taking turns, or resolving conflicts become far more challenging.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-testing-children-s-abilities">Testing children's abilities</h2>



To assess false-belief understanding, the researchers designed simple yet clever tests involving puppets and toys. 



In one task, children watched as a puppet named Piggy placed a toy in one container and then left the stage. Another puppet appeared and moved the toy to a different container. When Piggy returned, the child was asked where Piggy would look for the toy. 



If the child understood false beliefs, they would say Piggy would check the first container (even though they knew the toy wasn’t there).



Current research shows that false-belief abilities develop significantly during a child’s first five years. Falling behind in this area can lead to struggles with peer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relationships</a> and academic tasks later in life.



“You think about what a child needs to do to interact with others in a classroom. They want to have friends, but have to take other perspectives into consideration to have effective social interactions,” explained Professor Scott.



“Like, ‘I know you want to play this now, but I really want to play this.’ It’s being able to hold those two viewpoints in mind and still interact.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-social-skills">Decline in social skills</h2>



The study included 94 children in the initial group, each given three false-belief tasks. Before the pandemic, 80% of 5-year-olds passed these tests. 



After the lockdowns, the success rate dropped to 63%. For children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, the results were even more concerning - only 51% passed, which is essentially equivalent to random guessing.



To ensure accurate comparisons, the researchers also evaluated the children’s language skills and measured their families’ socioeconomic status based on household income and parental education levels. 



Testing for the first group occurred between August 2019 and March 2020, just before the pandemic took hold. A second group, statistically similar to the first, was tested starting in September 2021.



The results showed a clear trend: children from lower-income households experienced a notable decline in cognitive abilities, while those from higher-income families showed minimal effects from the lockdowns. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-disparity">Why the disparity?</h2>



While the study doesn’t provide a definitive answer, Professor Scott suggested several possibilities.



For families with fewer resources, the stress of financial instability or mental health challenges may have limited opportunities for meaningful parent-child interactions. 



Additionally, children in these households might have spent more time engaging passively with electronic devices - an activity linked to weaker false-belief understanding.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-learning-loss">Pandemic learning loss</h2>



Follow-up assessments conducted in 2023 offered little relief. The low scores persisted, indicating that the pandemic’s effects on social cognition may linger longer than anticipated. 



“The low scores in false-belief understanding were still there, persisting like a wave,” noted Professor Scott.



This finding raises important questions about the long-term implications for these children. Will they catch up as they grow older, or will the gaps widen over time? The answers remain unclear, but the persistence of these deficits highlights the need for continued research and intervention.



The study’s findings also highlight the importance of addressing disparities in early childhood development. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds already face numerous challenges, and the pandemic appears to have exacerbated these inequities. 



By identifying the specific areas where these children are falling behind, researchers and policymakers can begin to explore targeted strategies to support their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-is-harming-kids-memory-and-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">growth and development</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-growing-concern">A growing concern</h2>



In March, Professor Scott presented her team’s findings at a conference in Pasadena, sparking widespread interest. Since the paper’s publication in November, the attention has only grown.



“Every time I talk about this, other people in my field say, ‘Oh, my gosh, this is it. This is what we're seeing in our data,’” said Scott.



In December, a colleague from another university emailed her to express how the UC Merced study clarified patterns they had observed in their own research on post-pandemic social cognition.



Professor Scott believes there may be more data waiting to be explored. “It's just that people haven't had the mindset of looking at kids before school age,” she said.



By shining a light on this overlooked demographic, the study opens the door for further exploration into how early childhood experiences shape cognitive and social development. 



As researchers continue to investigate, one thing is clear: the pandemic’s impact on preschoolers is a story that deserves far more attention than it has received so far.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-children-recover-after-pandemic">Helping children recover after pandemic</h2>



The UC Merced study serves as a wake-up call, urging society to pay closer attention to the youngest members of our communities. 



Early childhood is a critical period for brain development, and disruptions during these formative years can have lasting consequences. 



As schools, daycare centers, and families work to rebuild after the pandemic, it is essential to prioritize the needs of preschool children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. By doing so, we can help ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive, both cognitively and socially, in the years to come.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-80532-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Key social skills in young children declined after the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped nearly every aspect of daily life,...

Mountains can leave us in awe, but they rarely offer easy clues about what lies beneath them. The Tibetan Plateau, often called the "roof of the world," continues to baffle geologists and others curious about Earth’s hidden workings.



Many researchers have tried to figure out why this region keeps rising. One group recently tackled the question by analyzing ambient noise tomography recordings from northern Tibet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-tibetan-plateau-matters">Why the Tibetan Plateau matters</h2>



The research was a collaboration among Dr. Rizheng He of the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, Xiaohui Yuan of the Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum (GFZ), and Dr. Wei Li of the China University of Geosciences.



The experts studied seismic readings that reveal a complex picture of molten material deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquakes-linked-to-nearby-oil-extraction-fracking-sites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beneath the surface</a>.



The Tibetan Plateau was created by the Indian-Eurasian continental collision, which began around 50 million years ago. Some experts view this collision as one of Earth’s major events during the Cenozoic era.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hoh-xil-basin-is-rising">The Hoh-Xil Basin is rising</h2>



This basin in the northern region has caught the attention of scientists because it experienced a noticeable uplift and post-collisional magmatism in the Early Miocene.



Back then, molten rock found its way into shallower levels, hinting at processes below that might still be active today.



Past seismic studies struggled with coverage gaps in this remote area, leaving scientists without a full picture. Recent instrument deployments now shed more light on the vertical push and the patches of magma that might <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earthquake-activity-will-increase-due-to-glacial-retreat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sit below</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peering-into-the-crust">Peering into the crust</h2>



The scientists applied ambient noise tomography to map the subsurface. This approach interprets scattered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-detect-major-earthquakes-months-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic signals</a> to paint a three-dimensional view of the region’s crust and upper mantle.



The experts discovered areas in the upper mantle where S-wave speeds drop significantly below normal. Such zones suggest the presence of molten or partially molten rock, which could alter how the surface behaves under ongoing tectonic forces.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melt-signals-confirmed">Melt signals confirmed</h2>



“This model shows widespread low S-wave velocity anomalies in the northern Tibetan Plateau, requiring the presence of melts. The crustal and mantle melting aligns with exposed young <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunken-worlds-discovered-under-the-pacific-ocean-in-earths-mantle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magmatic rocks</a> in the Hoh-Xil Basin,” said Dr. He.



Experts see this melt as a sign that sections of the lithosphere might be thinning or breaking away, allowing heat to concentrate. When heavier parts of the mantle drop off, new magma can flow upward and cause the crust to thicken.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-tibetan-plateau-growth">Redefining Tibetan plateau growth</h2>



Geologically speaking, plateau growth often involves complicated feedbacks between deep rock dynamics and the overlying crust.



Many thought the northward expansion of Tibetan topography happened gradually, but the evidence for relatively quick uplift in the Hoh-Xil Basin raises new questions.



Post-collisional magmatism can change the thickness and temperature of the crust, creating localized pockets of expansion. That process has made the plateau’s northern edge rise at different intervals from the rest of the region, leaving a patchwork of uplift histories.



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



Scientists point to lithospheric mantle removal as a factor that encourages hotter rocks to appear closer to the surface. This results in partial melting, which eventually feeds magmatic growth and pushes the land upward.



A thinner mantle can also help channel molten material more efficiently, potentially intensifying local deformation. That can create zones of weakness, where rock flows more easily under tectonic stress and changes the mountain-building pattern.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-changes-expected">Future changes expected</h2>



Although the plateau sits far from many large cities, any shift in the ground’s shape could influence rivers and ecosystems downstream. People living in nearby valleys depend on these water sources.



Learning about heat and melt distribution helps experts predict how fast the plateau might continue to rise in the decades ahead. 



Ongoing geophysical surveys could reveal more hints of where crustal melting is strongest and where new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/continent-sized-islands-llsvp-found-inside-earth-are-100-times-taller-than-mount-everest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a> might emerge.



Researchers sometimes compare data from satellites with on-the-ground measurements. The goal is to pinpoint where new uplifts are likely and how they connect with deep mantle dynamics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seismic-data-and-fieldwork">Seismic data and fieldwork</h2>



Multiple institutions now share seismic data to fill in the knowledge gaps, especially in areas that were once inaccessible. 



Coordination among research teams is essential because each vantage point captures a different piece of the puzzle, ensuring that no corner remains unexplored.



Scientists also rely on geological fieldwork to examine magmatic rocks that formed during earlier uplift phases. Linking those samples with seismic images can tell a richer story about how the region evolved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-tibetan-plateau-may-change">How the Tibetan Plateau may change </h2>



Studies of the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen show that collisions can keep rearranging entire mountain systems for millions of years, creating ongoing shifts in crust and mantle structures.



More results from these advanced seismic arrays may reveal just how dynamic the Earth can be as it continues to mold this rugged corner of Asia.



According to some experts, the plateau’s continued growth might spark renewed magmatic activities. Those events could shape new local fault lines or modify existing ones in ways that surprise us.



Ongoing research in the Hoh-Xil Basin may reveal whether these melting regions shift or expand over time, changing how geologists envision the plateau’s future. Such activity might lead to even more localized uplifts that alter the entire profile of northern Tibet.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seismic</a> imaging in northern Tibet is shedding new light on how molten rock shapes high terrain. Each finding adds another piece to the story of how collisions can reshape entire landscapes.



Researchers will likely keep returning to these high-altitude terrains to refine their models and spot new anomalies.



Many aspects remain uncertain, yet the recognition of partial melting in the crust and mantle highlights the complex way mountains and basins evolve. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/nsr/article/11/9/nwae257/7721616" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Review</a>.



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Why the 'roof of the world' keeps rising over time

Mountains can leave us in awe, but they rarely offer...

The relationship between alcohol and mental health is complex. Alcohol can contribute to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, and people with these conditions are also more likely to misuse alcohol.



For decades, the prevailing belief was that individuals with depression and alcohol use disorder (AUD) drank primarily to self-medicate, seeking relief from negative emotions rather than pursuing pleasure. 



However, a recent study from the <a href="https://www.uchicagomedicine.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago Medicine</a> is challenging this assumption. The research reveals that people with AUD and depression experience significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alcohol-has-a-hidden-impact-on-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stimulation</a> and pleasure when intoxicated, much like those without depression. 



These findings not only reshape our understanding of alcohol’s effects but also open new doors for treatment strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-responses-to-alcohol">Tracking responses to alcohol</h2>



The study, led by Dr. Andrea King, professor of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience at UChicago, used innovative methods to track real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-small-amounts-of-alcohol-increase-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responses to alcohol</a> in natural settings.



With the help of smartphone technology, the researchers were able to capture how participants felt during drinking episodes, providing a more accurate picture than traditional lab-based studies.



"We have this folklore that people drink excessively when they're feeling depressed and that it's really about self-medicating," said King. 



"In this study of natural environment drinking and smartphone-based reports of the effects of alcohol in real-time, participants with AUD and a depressive disorder reported feeling acute, sustained positive and rewarding alcohol effects - just like their non-depressed counterparts."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-redefining-alcohol-addiction">Redefining alcohol addiction</h2>



The researchers followed 232 participants between the ages of 21 and 35 - a demographic known for higher rates of heavy drinking.



Half of the group met the criteria for AUD in the past year, and these individuals were evenly divided into those who had experienced major depressive disorder and those who had not. 



Participants were excluded if they had suicidal ideations or severe withdrawal symptoms, ensuring safety while maintaining a diverse sample.



Using their smartphones, participants answered questions every half hour during a typical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-alcohol-in-moderation-does-not-prolong-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinking episode</a> and a non-drinking episode. The data revealed that alcohol consumption reduced negative feelings, but the effect was small and not specific to depression or AUD status. 



On the other hand, the positive effects of alcohol were significantly higher in individuals with AUD compared to those without AUD. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pleasure-plays-a-key-role">Pleasure plays a key role</h2>



Surprisingly, the pleasurable effects were similar in both depressed and non-depressed individuals with AUD. This challenges the notion that alcohol addiction is solely driven by an attempt to alleviate distress.



"For nearly a decade, our group has been improving methods to use mobile technologies to measure real-time clinically meaningful outcomes in people with AUD and those at risk for alcohol-related problems," said study co-author Dr. Daniel Fridberg.



"These approaches allow us to bridge the gap between the lab and real life and have led to new insights that could one day result in better treatments."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-treatment-for-alcohol-addiction">Rethinking treatment for alcohol addiction</h2>



The implications of these findings are profound, particularly for how AUD and co-occurring depression are treated. Current treatment strategies often focus on reducing stress and alleviating depressive symptoms, assuming that these factors drive excessive drinking. 



However, King argues that this approach addresses only part of the issue. According to her, treatments must also target the heightened feelings of stimulation and reward that both depressed and non-depressed individuals with AUD experience.



"Currently, the focus of treatment is often on resolving stress and symptoms of depression, but that is only addressing one side of the coin if we don't also address the heightened stimulation, liking and wanting more alcohol that occur in both depressed and non-depressed people with AUD," said King. 



Her extensive research on human responses to alcohol underscores the importance of understanding how pleasure and reward pathways contribute to addiction. By broadening the scope of treatment to include these factors, clinicians may develop more effective interventions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-the-dark-side-of-addiction">Challenging the "dark side of addiction"</h2>



The study also calls into question a widely accepted theory about the progression of addiction. 



This theory proposes that repeated heavy drinking leads to changes in the brain's stress and reward systems, causing individuals to shift from drinking for pleasure to drinking to avoid withdrawal and stress. 



While this model has been influential, it does not fully account for the high levels of stimulation and pleasure observed in King’s research.



"As treatment providers, we're taught people with AUD are drinking to self-medicate and feel better," said King. "But what exactly are they feeling? From our study, it seems to be high levels of stimulation and pleasurable effects, with a modest decrease in negative states.” 



King compared these heightened feelings to an accelerator pedal, fueling dependency rather than merely easing discomfort. This perspective suggests that addiction is not solely about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spike-in-alcohol-use-during-the-pandemic-continues-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">escaping pain</a> but also about pursuing intense positive experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-sensitivity-to-alcohol">Long-term sensitivity to alcohol</h2>



King’s next project aims to extend these findings to older adults with long-term AUD. Specifically, she plans to examine whether individuals aged 40 to 65 who have struggled with AUD for decades still experience heightened pleasure when drinking. 



The prevailing theory would predict blunted positive responses and increased tolerance in these individuals, as prolonged exposure to alcohol is thought to dull its enjoyable effects. 



However, King’s previous research raises the possibility that some individuals retain sensitivity to alcohol’s pleasurable effects even after years of heavy drinking.



This upcoming study could provide critical insights into the long-term dynamics of AUD and its interaction with aging. If older <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-moderate-drinking-severely-harms-health-despite-past-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinkers</a> with AUD exhibit sustained sensitivity to alcohol’s rewarding effects, it would challenge existing assumptions about tolerance and addiction.



Moreover, it could inform the development of age-specific treatments that address the unique needs of older individuals with AUD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-for-better-treatments">New insights for better treatments </h2>



One of the most innovative aspects of this research is its use of mobile technology to gather real-time data in natural environments. 



Traditional lab studies often fail to capture the nuances of alcohol consumption in everyday life, where social, emotional, and environmental factors play a significant role. 



By using smartphones to track participants’ experiences, King and her team have created a more comprehensive and accurate picture of how alcohol affects individuals with AUD and depression.



"For nearly a decade, our group has been improving methods to use mobile technologies to measure real-time clinically meaningful outcomes in people with AUD and those at risk for alcohol-related problems," said Fridberg. 



"These approaches allow us to bridge the gap between the lab and real life and have led to new insights that could one day result in better treatments." 



This methodology not only enhances the validity of the findings but also sets a precedent for future research in addiction science.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-view-of-alcohol-addiction">Broader view of alcohol addiction</h2>



The University of Chicago Medicine study represents a significant step forward in understanding the complex interplay between alcohol, mental health, and addiction.



By challenging long-held beliefs and offering new perspectives, the research paves the way for more effective treatment approaches. It highlights the need to consider both the pleasurable and negative effects of alcohol when addressing AUD, particularly in individuals with co-occurring depression.



As scientists continue to explore these dynamics, the hope is that treatments will become more personalized and effective. Whether through medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of approaches, the ultimate goal is to help individuals achieve lasting recovery. 



By focusing on the full spectrum of alcohol’s effects, researchers and clinicians can work together to create a brighter future for those struggling with addiction.



The study is published in the <a href="https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.20240069" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Journal of Psychiatry</a>.



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Alcohol and depression: Study challenges self-medication theory

The relationship between alcohol and mental health is complex. Alcohol...

In a rapidly urbanizing world, grasslands and other green spaces are steadily disappearing. But what if there was a way to maintain these lush sanctuaries without the tiresome labor and cost? The solution may come from an unexpected source - fire.



Using fire to restore the land may seem paradoxical, yet it’s a practice that is deeply rooted in tradition. For generations, our ancestors relied on fire to sustain ecosystems.



Today, in our quest to balance progress and preservation, we've come full circle, rediscovering this ancient wisdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-can-save-grasslands">Fire can save grasslands</h2>



A group of researchers from <a href="https://www.kobe-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe University</a> in Japan has recently conducted a study that reveals the potential of controlled burning, a labor-saving technique, in preserving disappearing grasslands.



The findings suggest that this method could contribute not only to preserving biodiversity but also to the survival of endangered plant species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-burning-has-helped-grasslands-for-centuries">Burning has helped grasslands for centuries</h2>



Grasslands require consistent maintenance. Over centuries, humans have been utilizing techniques such as grazing, mowing, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/controlled-burns-reduce-carbon-emissions-from-soil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">controlled burning</a> to fend off overbearing forests from encroaching these pastures.



However, with a boom in urbanization and a subsequent decline in rural population, maintaining these green belts has become an increasing challenge.



This is where "prescribed" burning comes in - a technique that deliberately sets controlled fires. While fire may seem destructive, when managed carefully, it can be a vital tool in preserving these threatened ecosystems.



Led by master's student ASADA Airi and ecologist USHIMARU Atushi at Kobe University, the research sheds light on the significance of soil conditions in these fire management practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-s-impact-on-grasslands">Fire’s impact on grasslands </h2>



The study was conducted on a training site of the Japan Self-Defense Forces near Mount Fuji. Here, the team established 100 square-meter plots across the grasslands on four different types of soil.



Each plot's plant biodiversity and various physical and chemical factors were thoroughly studied and compared. 



The most intriguing part of the research revealed that some areas, particularly on young lava flows, were hotspots for endangered species.



The researchers observed that these young lava flows had greater overall species richness, native species richness, and prevalence of endangered species than grasslands on both young and old scoria bedrock.



The team concluded that acidity, soil depth, and rock and stone coverage played pivotal roles in supporting these unique ecosystems, thus enabling the survival of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-plants-are-facing-extinction-in-the-scottish-mountains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rare plants</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fire-helps-balance-ecosystems">Fire helps balance ecosystems</h2>



A key point illuminated by the research is the seemingly perfect balance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-ecosystems-constantly-share-energy-to-achieve-balance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> maintains. Acidic soils, which normally make nutrient absorption difficult for plants, help to counterbalance otherwise dominant species.



Controlled burning is a strategy to reset plant growth, allowing these often sidelined species a much-needed chance to thrive.



Ushimaru noted that the study pinpoints environments where managed burning can help support a significant variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-future-of-the-endangered-species-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered species</a>.



The findings are a step forward in our understanding of how to best preserve and restore grassland environments and species diversity through properly managed fire.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vital-role-of-grasslands">Vital role of grasslands</h2>



Grasslands are more than just open fields; they are essential ecosystems that support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>, store carbon, and regulate water cycles. 



Covering nearly 40% of Earth’s land surface, grasslands provide habitat for countless plant and animal species. Their deep-rooted vegetation helps prevent soil erosion, making them critical for maintaining healthy landscapes.



Beyond their ecological value, grasslands play a pivotal role in agriculture and food security. They support livestock grazing, which sustains rural economies, and their rich soils contribute to sustainable farming. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grasslands-support-climate-stability">Grasslands support climate stability</h2>



Additionally, grasslands act as natural buffers against extreme weather, absorbing excess rainfall and reducing the risk of floods and droughts.



However, with increasing urbanization and agricultural expansion, these landscapes are disappearing at an alarming rate. Without proper management, they risk being overrun by forests, invasive species, or completely degraded.



This is where techniques like controlled burning become invaluable, helping to maintain the delicate balance that allows grasslands to flourish.



By recognizing their importance and investing in conservation efforts, we can ensure that grasslands continue to provide essential benefits for both nature and human society.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ppp3.10629" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plants People Planet</a>.



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Controlled fires can help us save grasslands from disappearing

In a rapidly urbanizing world, grasslands and other green spaces...

In recent years, cold-water therapy has captured the imagination of wellness enthusiasts, athletes, and researchers alike. From icy plunges in natural bodies of water to brisk cold showers at home, this practice has gained traction as a potential tool for improving health and well-being.



But beyond the hype and anecdotal claims lies a question: does cold-water immersion truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wim-hof-method-helps-fight-stress-inflammation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deliver on its promises</a>? 



A team of researchers from the University of South Australia (<a href="https://www.unisa.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniSA</a>) set out to answer this by conducting the most comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of its kind. 



The findings offer a nuanced perspective, shedding light on both the benefits and limitations of this increasingly popular practice.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-cold-water-therapy">Impact of cold-water therapy</h2>



The researchers analyzed data from 11 studies involving 3,177 participants, examining how cold-water immersion influences stress levels, sleep quality, and overall quality of life.



While the results suggest that cold-water immersion may have positive effects, they also reveal that these benefits are often short-lived and highly context-dependent. 



"Cold-water immersion has been extensively researched and used in sporting contexts to help athletes recover, but despite its growing popularity among health and wellbeing circles, little is known about its effects on the general population," explained UniSA researcher Tara Cain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-term-stress-relief">Short-term stress relief</h2>



One of the key findings of the study was that cold-water immersion could reduce stress levels - but only temporarily.



Participants experienced lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> for approximately 12 hours after exposure. Interestingly, those who incorporated cold showers into their routines reported slight improvements in their quality of life. 



These showers lasted anywhere from 20 to 90 seconds, suggesting that even brief exposure to cold water might have some positive effects. However, the researchers noted that these benefits tended to fade after three months, indicating that consistency might be key to sustaining any gains.



Another intriguing discovery was the impact of regular cold showers on sickness-related absences. One study included in the analysis found that participants who took cold showers regularly experienced a 29% reduction in days missed due to illness. 



While this finding is promising, it raises further questions about the mechanisms behind such outcomes and whether they apply universally or only to specific groups. 



"We also found some links to cold-water immersion and better sleep outcomes, but the data was restricted to males, so its broader application is limited," noted Cain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-cold-water-therapy">Science behind cold-water therapy</h2>



Cold-water immersion involves submerging the body in water with temperatures typically ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). 



For this study, data was included only if participants were immersed at or above chest level for a minimum of 30 seconds. Practices like cold showers, ice baths, and cold plunges were all included in the analysis.



Dr. Ben Singh highlighted an unexpected aspect of the findings: cold-water immersion causes a temporary increase in inflammation.



"At first glance this seems contradictory, as we know that ice baths are regularly used by elite athletes to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise," said Dr. Singh.



However, the initial spike in inflammation is not necessarily harmful. Instead, it represents the body’s response to cold as a stressor. 



Much like exercise causes short-term muscle damage before leading to stronger muscles, this inflammatory response may help the body adapt and recover over time. This insight could explain why athletes continue to use cold-water therapy despite the temporary rise in inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-should-approach-with-caution">Who should approach with caution?</h2>



While the study suggests potential benefits, it also highlights the need for caution, particularly among individuals with pre-existing health conditions. 



The temporary increase in inflammation, though beneficial in certain contexts, could pose risks for those with chronic illnesses or other medical concerns. 



"Knowing this, people with pre-existing health conditions should take extra care if participating in cold-water immersion experiences as the initial inflammation could have detrimental health impacts," noted Dr. Singh.



The research emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own body and health status before diving into cold-water practices. For everyday wellness seekers, the findings serve as a reminder that what works for one person may not work for another.



"Whether you are an elite athlete or everyday wellness seeker -- it's important to understand the effects of what you put your body through," said Cain. This personalized approach is crucial when considering any health intervention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



Despite the promising findings, the study also revealed significant gaps in our understanding of cold-water immersion.



For instance, while there are many claims that it can boost immunity and mood, the evidence supporting these assertions remains weak. The researchers noted that more high-quality, long-term studies are needed to determine who benefits most and what the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ideal approach</a> might be.



"Right now, there isn't enough high-quality research to say exactly who benefits most or what the ideal approach is to cold-water immersion," said Cain.



The current data is limited in scope, focusing primarily on specific populations and short-term outcomes. Expanding research to include more diverse groups and longer observation periods will be essential to uncovering the full potential of this practice. 



Such studies could provide clearer guidance on how to incorporate cold-water immersion into daily life effectively and safely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-factors-to-consider">Key factors to consider</h2>



For those intrigued by the idea of cold-water therapy, the study offers valuable insights but also calls for a measured approach.



While the practice shows promise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/embracing-stress-mindset-is-actually-a-good-thing-for-athletes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reducing stress</a>, improving sleep, and enhancing quality of life, these effects are often fleeting and vary from person to person. 



Incorporating cold showers or other forms of cold-water exposure into a routine might yield some benefits, but consistency and individual tolerance are key factors to consider.



Ultimately, cold-water therapy is not a magic solution but rather one piece of the larger puzzle of health and well-being. As research continues to evolve, individuals are encouraged to listen to their bodies and consult healthcare professionals when necessary.



Whether you’re an athlete seeking recovery strategies or someone exploring ways to enhance your daily wellness, understanding the science and limitations of cold-water immersion can help you make informed choices.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317615" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Cold-water therapy: Temporary fix or long-term benefits?

In recent years, cold-water therapy has captured the imagination of...

As the global population ages, understanding how social interactions preserve cognitive health has become a pressing concern. 



Dementia - a condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior - is one of the most feared aspects of growing older. While researchers continue to explore potential treatments, prevention remains a key focus.



A recent study published online in Alzheimer's &amp; Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association sheds light on an intriguing possibility. 



The researchers found that frequent social activity may play a significant role in delaying or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/risk-of-dementia-is-much-higher-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preventing dementia</a> in older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-activity-may-help-prevent-dementia">Social activity may help prevent dementia</h2>



This research not only adds to our understanding of brain health but also offers practical insights into how everyday behaviors can shape aging outcomes.



"This study is a follow up on previous papers from our group showing that social activity is related to less cognitive decline in older adults," noted Dr. Bryan James, associate professor of internal medicine at Rush.



What sets this research apart is its deeper exploration of the connection between social engagement and dementia onset. The results suggest that older adults who remain socially active are less likely to develop dementia compared to their less engaged peers. 



In fact, the least socially active participants developed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/preventing-dementia-scientists-say-three-factors-matter-most/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a> an average of five years earlier than those who were more socially engaged.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-activity-as-a-protective-factor">Social activity as a protective factor</h2>



The protective effect of social activity appears to be significant. 



According to the study, frequent social engagement is associated with a 38% reduction in dementia risk and a 21% reduction in mild cognitive impairment risk. 



These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real-world implications for individuals and society.



For instance, delaying the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caffeine-consumption-may-lower-the-risk-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">onset of dementia</a> by five years could extend life expectancy by three additional years. 



Economically, this delay could reduce dementia-related costs by 40% over the next three decades, potentially saving approximately $500,000 in lifetime health care expenses per person who would otherwise develop the condition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-interactions-strengthen-brain-connections">Social interactions strengthen brain connections</h2>



The mechanisms behind these findings are still being explored, but researchers believe that social activity strengthens neural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-disruptions-could-signal-the-onset-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">circuits in the brain</a>. 



Engaging in conversations, participating in group activities, and maintaining relationships require the brain to process complex information. These interactions activate areas of the brain involved in thinking and memory, which may help maintain cognitive function. 



By keeping these neural pathways active, social engagement could make the brain more resilient to age-related changes and the accumulation of harmful proteins linked to dementia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-research">Focus of the research </h2>



The study drew data from the Rush <a href="https://www.rushu.rush.edu/research-rush-university/departmental-research/rush-alzheimers-disease-center/rush-alzheimers-disease-center-research/epidemiologic-research/memory-aging-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memory and Aging Project</a>, an ongoing longitudinal study that examines common chronic conditions of aging. 



Researchers followed 1,923 dementia-free older adults with an average age of about 80. Over time, 545 participants developed dementia, and 695 developed mild cognitive impairment. 



Each participant underwent yearly evaluations that included detailed medical histories and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function. 



Social activity levels were measured using a questionnaire that asked participants how often they engaged in six common social activities during the previous year. These activities included dining out, attending sporting events, volunteering, visiting friends or family, and taking trips.



Cognitive function was evaluated through a comprehensive battery of 21 tests designed to measure various types of memory, perceptual speed, and visuospatial abilities. At the start of the study, none of the participants showed signs of cognitive impairment. 



However, over an average follow-up period of five years, those who were more socially active demonstrated slower rates of cognitive decline. 



Importantly, the analysis accounted for other variables that might influence cognitive health, such as age, physical exercise, and overall health, ensuring that the observed benefits were directly tied to social activity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-engagement-to-protect-dementia">Social engagement to protect dementia</h2>



Why does social activity seem to play such a crucial role in preventing cognitive decline? While the exact reasons remain unclear, one theory suggests that social interactions challenge older adults to engage in complex interpersonal exchanges. 



As James noted, this could promote or maintain efficient neural networks in a case of "use it or lose it." Regular social engagement may act as a form of mental exercise, keeping the brain sharp and adaptable. 



Additionally, social activity often involves emotional and psychological benefits, such as reducing feelings of loneliness and depression, which are known risk factors for dementia.



The study’s findings highlight the potential value of social activity as a community-level intervention for reducing dementia risk. Encouraging older adults to stay connected with friends, family, and their communities could have far-reaching benefits. 



Programs that facilitate group activities, volunteer opportunities, or intergenerational interactions may help older adults maintain their cognitive health while also enhancing their quality of life. 



Future research will be essential to determine whether targeted interventions aimed at increasing late-life social activity can effectively delay or prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stop-googling-start-napping-to-reduce-dementia-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-life-and-brain-health">Social life and brain health</h2>



The study was made possible through the collaborative efforts of several researchers at Rush. 



The research adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the importance of social engagement in aging. By examining the relationship between social activity and cognitive health, these researchers have provided valuable insights that could inform public health strategies and individual lifestyle choices.



The findings also highlight the need for further investigation into the specific ways social activity influences brain health. 



For example, future studies could explore whether certain types of social interactions are more beneficial than others or whether the frequency and intensity of social engagement matter more than the specific activities themselves. 



Such research could help refine recommendations for older adults seeking to protect their cognitive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-cognitive-function">Preserving cognitive function</h2>



The implications of this study extend beyond the scientific community. 



For individuals, the message is clear: staying socially active is not just about enjoying life - it’s also about preserving cognitive function. 



Whether through joining clubs, attending community events, or simply spending time with loved ones, older adults can take proactive steps to support their brain health.



Families and caregivers can also play a role by encouraging their aging relatives to remain socially engaged and helping them find opportunities to connect with others.



At the community level, there is an opportunity to create environments that foster social interaction among older adults. Local governments, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare providers can work together to develop programs that bring people together. 



From senior centers to intergenerational initiatives, these efforts could help combat the isolation that often accompanies aging. By prioritizing social engagement, communities can empower older adults to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-engagement-and-cognitive-health">Social engagement and cognitive health</h2>



While the study provides compelling evidence of the benefits of social activity, it also raises important questions for future research. 



Can interventions designed to increase social engagement effectively delay or prevent dementia? How do different types of social interactions compare in terms of their impact on cognitive health? 



Answering these questions will require large-scale, long-term studies that track participants over many years.



In the meantime, the findings offer hope and practical guidance for addressing one of the greatest challenges of aging. By emphasizing the importance of social connections, this research reminds us that human interaction is not only a source of joy but also a powerful tool for maintaining brain health. 



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.14316" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's &amp; Dementia</a>.



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Social activity may delay the onset of dementia by years

As the global population ages, understanding how social interactions preserve...

In a world where reproductive health is becoming an increasingly important topic, scientists are constantly exploring new ways to address challenges related to fertility. One recent discovery is resveratrol, a natural compound found in common foods like grapes, blueberries, and raspberries.



This polyphenolic compound has long been celebrated for its anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, recent research suggests that its potential extends far beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healing-chronic-wounds-with-gold-and-red-wine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">general wellness</a>. 



A systematic review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences sheds light on how resveratrol could play a pivotal role in improving female fertility. This discovery opens up exciting possibilities for women seeking natural solutions to enhance their reproductive health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-resveratol-on-female-fertility">Impact of resveratol on female fertility</h2>



The researchers analyzed data from 24 studies, which included a total of 9,563 human participants. Among these, four studies specifically examined the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moderate-wine-consumption-reduces-cardiovascular-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact of resveratrol</a> on the number of matured oocytes. 



Two reported an increase, while the other two found no significant changes. On the other hand, two studies focusing on the quality of matured oocytes showed improvements in women who <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-polyphenols-promote-heart-health-youthful-skin-and-a-healthy-waistline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumed resveratrol</a>. 



These findings point to the compound's potential to enhance reproductive health naturally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-resveratrol-support-fertility">How does resveratrol support fertility?</h2>



One possible explanation for resveratrol's positive effects lies in its ability to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is known to damage mitochondrial DNA and accelerate cellular aging. 



By protecting against this damage, resveratrol may help preserve the integrity of oocytes and extend ovarian lifespan. Additionally, the compound activates sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a molecule that tends to decrease in aged oocytes. This activation could slow down cell aging and improve overall <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-production-in-a-warming-world-the-winners-and-losers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reproductive function</a>.



Beyond its effects on oocyte quality, the review also explored resveratrol's potential in addressing specific fertility challenges. 



For instance, it may offer benefits for women dealing with infertility caused by endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or obesity-related issues. 



By inhibiting pathways involved in androgen production and reducing inflammation, resveratrol could provide a natural approach to managing these conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mixed-results-on-miscarriage-rates">Mixed results on miscarriage rates</h2>



While the findings are encouraging, the review also revealed inconsistencies in data related to pregnancy and miscarriage rates. 



Among five studies that examined pregnancy outcomes, two reported an increase in pregnancy rates among women taking resveratrol, two found no difference, and one noted a decrease. 



Interestingly, the same study that observed a decline in pregnancy rates also reported a rise in miscarriage rates. Another study, however, found no significant changes in miscarriage occurrences. 



These mixed results highlight the need for more comprehensive research to fully understand the compound's effects on reproductive outcomes.



Resveratrol is generally regarded as safe when consumed in moderate amounts through diet or supplements, with doses up to five grams per day considered acceptable for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-red-wine-gives-some-people-a-headache/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">short-term use</a>. 



However, the long-term safety of high-dose supplementation remains uncertain, particularly concerning potential risks during pregnancy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



Lee Smith, professor of public health at Anglia Ruskin University (<a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARU</a>) and senior author of the paper, emphasized the importance of cautious optimism.



“Our systematic review on resveratrol and female fertility is a comprehensive overview of all current research, and it highlights the compound’s potential to improve reproductive outcomes and possibly pave the way for new, less invasive treatments, using natural substances,” he stated. 



However, Professor Smith also pointed out the limitations of the current evidence.



“Our findings are based on a number of limitations, including the limited number of human studies, the different parameters of each study and the lack of robust data on dosage and side effects, particularly related to birth defects or foetal abnormalities,” Smith explained. 



“There is a need for further clinical trials, involving human participants, in order to translate these promising results into practical recommendations for women looking to improve their fertility, including guidance on the safe and effective dosage of resveratrol.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resveratrol-and-female-fertility">Resveratrol and female fertility</h2>



The potential of resveratrol to support female fertility represents an exciting avenue for future exploration. 



If ongoing and future studies confirm its benefits, this natural compound could offer a less invasive and more accessible option for women seeking to enhance their reproductive health. 



For now, researchers urge patience and continued investigation to ensure that any recommendations are grounded in solid, reliable evidence. As science progresses, resveratrol may emerge as a valuable tool in the journey toward improved fertility.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/23/12792" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Molecular Sciences</a>. 



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Resveratrol in grapes and wine may naturally boost female fertility

In a world where reproductive health is becoming an increasingly...

<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.

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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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"

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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

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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

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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

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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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