Research on Earth's systems and resources. Covers green energy, ocean oxygen and metal deposits, lunar exploration, and geothermal power.
Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have captured high-resolution images of a five-mile asteroid impact crater buried deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean. The data reveals minute-by-minute chaos after collision, including rocks flowing upwards to the crater floor and an 800-metre-plus high tsunami. The findings confirm the Nadir Crater w...
Scientists have found that the Pinnacles in Western Australia were formed about 100,000 years ago during a wet period, distinct from the current Mediterranean climate. The iron-rich nodules trapped helium from radioactive decay, providing a precise record of their formation.
Researchers from University of Texas at Arlington have identified 206 systems of interest for potential habitability, including one system where the planet is always situated in the HZ. The team analyzed data from NASA Exoplanet Archive and found F-type stars to be a promising case for life beyond Earth.
A new study reveals that climate experts believe the Earth is headed for a rise in global temperatures far higher than the 2015 Paris Agreement targets. Two-thirds of respondents think we may succeed in achieving net zero CO2 emissions during the second half of this century, indicating some optimism about mitigation efforts.
Researchers found that low gravity conditions in space weaken and disrupt the normal rhythmic beats of human bioengineered heart tissue samples. The tissues on the International Space Station beat about half as strong as those on Earth, and developed irregular beating patterns that can cause a human heart to fail.
Researchers at NJIT's Institute for Space Weather Sciences and Ying Wu College of Computing are developing an AI-powered space weather forecasting system called SolarDM. The system uses synthetic vector magnetograms to provide critical data for predicting solar eruptions, which could offer a three-day forecast horizon.
A new study reveals that Earth's surface temperature has varied more greatly over the past 485 million years than previously thought. The study, co-led by the Smithsonian and University of Arizona, confirms that carbon dioxide is strongly correlated with global temperatures across geological time.
A new report by international experts urges a collective approach to tackle plastic pollution, citing over 7,000 research studies on microplastics. The need for global reduction in plastic production and emission of microplastic particles is emphasized to avoid irreversible environmental damage.
The study presents a curve of global mean surface temperature that reveals significant fluctuations in Earth's temperature over the past 485 million years. The research confirms that carbon dioxide is strongly correlated with global temperatures across geological time.
Researchers from CNRS and Paris Institute of Planetary Physics developed an innovative imaging method to probe volcano internal structure. The study revealed a large magma storage zone beneath La Soufriere volcano, providing greater anticipation for volcanic eruptions.
Researchers suggest that if most dark matter is composed of microscopic primordial black holes, they should pass through the solar system at least once per decade, introducing a wobble into Mars' orbit. This detection could lend support to the idea that primordial black holes are a primary source of dark matter.
Researchers, including WVU astronomer Emmanuel Fonseca, use radio pulsars to detect gravitational waves generated by massive objects. The study will merge data from the Green Bank Telescope and CHIME radio telescope to achieve full coverage of each wave, revealing information about phenomenon and objects in distant galaxies.
A worldwide survey by Goethe University Frankfurt found that students in environmental studies are unaware of the main causes of biodiversity loss. The study identified eight response types with varying levels of understanding, with climate change being underestimated in many countries. The researchers suggest that this lack of knowled...
A team of geoscientists has identified the origin of the massive asteroid that wiped out 70% of Earth's species 66 million years ago. The study found the asteroid was a carbonaceous-type asteroid that formed outside Jupiter's orbit.
A rock formation spanning Ireland and Scotland has been confirmed as a rare record of the 'snowball Earth' period, when the globe was covered in ice. The Port Askaig Formation, composed of layers up to 1.1km thick, dates back to 662-720 million years ago during the Sturtian glaciation.
Seven rock samples collected along the fan front of Mars' Jezero Crater show evidence of minerals formed in water, suggesting a watery environment. While organic matter cannot be confirmed, these rocks may hold the key to finding remnants of ancient Martian life.
A new study from the University of Illinois Chicago proposes an alternative theory for the formation of Earth's continents, challenging the long-held leading theory. The researchers used computer models to investigate the origin of Archaean zircons, which date back to 2.5-4 billion years ago.
A new study suggests that the rising earth in Antarctica will impact future sea level rise, depending on how much global warming is controlled. If humans lower greenhouse gas emissions, upward shifts in solid earth could reduce Antarctica's contribution to sea level rise by about 40%, bolstering best-case scenarios for global sea level...
MIT researchers detected a clear signal of human influence on upper tropospheric ozone trends, separate from climate noise. The study provides insights into specific human activities driving this trend.
A new study by MIT and University of Chicago scientists pin down the origins of the moon's tenuous atmosphere, finding that meteorite impacts are the primary process. Over billions of years, these constant impacts have kicked up lunar soil, vaporizing certain atoms and lofting particles into a thin atmosphere.
A team of researchers suggests creating a lunar biorepository to store cryopreserved samples of at-risk animal species, leveraging the Moon's natural cold temperatures for long-term storage. The facility aims to protect biodiversity from extinction threats and challenges such as climate change and geopolitical conflicts.
A new study reveals that metallic minerals on the deep-ocean floor can produce oxygen, even in complete darkness. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions that only photosynthetic organisms generate Earth's oxygen and has significant implications for our understanding of the origin of life.
A recent study suggests that eco anxiety and 'lie-flat' lifestyles are costing the world trillions in lost productivity. The research, published in One Earth journal, highlights the need for major changes in global economic and political systems to address climate and biodiversity crises.
Researchers at Aberystwyth University have made a breakthrough in predicting the speed of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and their arrival time on Earth. This discovery improves our ability to forecast space weather events, providing crucial advance warnings for protecting vital technological systems.
A new study reveals that large wildfires can significantly impact the ozone layer through a 'smoke-charged vortex,' doubling aerosol burden in the middle stratosphere and buffering up to 40% of ozone depletion. This phenomenon highlights the need for continued research into climate change's effects on atmospheric chemistry.
A UC Riverside paper has opened the door to understanding more about life's beginnings and early evolution. The study weaves together data from ancient rocks, genomic studies of modern organisms, and recent breakthroughs about the evolving chemistry of the early oceans, atmosphere, and continents.
Research led by Heidelberg University reveals that small water-rich astronomical bodies in the early solar system supplied building materials for planets, including the Earth. These planetesimals brought water to Earth through their thermal evolution and point of origin.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a simple mechanism for optimal light-use efficiency of photosynthesis inspired by giant clams. This discovery could lead to the development of more efficient solar cells and renewable energy systems.
Researchers analyzed live-streams of hurricanes and storms, finding that people in affected areas used streams to discuss official risk advice and show support to impacted regions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how new technologies influence hazard risk perception and community engagement.
A new study published in Nature Geoscience presents evidence for the origin of Mars' organic material, revealing that it was formed through atmospheric photochemical reactions without life. The discovery confirms a decade-old theory and provides crucial insights into the formation of life's building blocks.
A study by Dan Chavas and his team found that the rough texture of the land surface in South America may prevent tornadoes from forming, while a smoother ocean surface in North America enhances their frequency. This challenges established wisdom about the role of the Gulf of Mexico in tornado formation.
Researchers analyzed local earthquakes and geochemical data from recent lava samples to determine the source of eruptions. The evidence implies a moderately-sized magma reservoir delivering magma to the surface, indicating continued volcanic episodes into the future.
Researchers uncover dark particles and lighter components with stones, suggesting asteroids played a key role in delivering water and life to Earth. The samples also contain unexpected minerals, offering insights into Bennu's evolution and the early solar system.
Conservationists and researchers propose preserving just 1.22% of the Earth's surface to protect threatened species from extinction, safeguarding wildlife for future generations. Protecting these sites could cost around $34 billion per year, but represents less than 0.2% of US GDP.
A USTC research team studied nitrogen isotope fractionation during terrestrial planet formation, finding that both early evolution and late-stage accretion contributed to the silicate Earth's nitrogen abundance. The study sheds new light on the origin of volatiles on our planet.
A UC Riverside study shows that extreme heat in Earth's past caused a decline in the exchange of waters from the surface to the deep ocean, which redistributes heat around the globe. This system has been crucial for regulating Earth's climate and removing anthropogenic carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
A new biomarker database, Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA), has been developed to improve astronaut health, but its findings may also be useful for people on Earth with limited mobility or bedridden conditions. The database provides insights into short and long-term health impacts of spaceflight.
Astrophysicists record radio emissions from Earth and view it as an exoplanet to understand potential signals from intelligent life. The mission marks a major achievement for NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program.
Astrophysicists calculate that two million years ago, the solar system encountered a cold, harsh interstellar cloud, which may have interfered with the sun's solar wind and affected Earth's climate. The heliosphere, a protective plasma shield, was compressed in such a way that it briefly placed Earth outside its influence.
A team of researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi calls for expanded protections to preserve the environments of the Moon and Mars, addressing biological contamination and other issues. They also recommend compliance incentives to existing sustainability policies, citing potential benefits for terrestrial technology development.
Researchers have found evidence of fresh water on Earth dating back to four billion years ago, shedding light on the planet's early history and the emergence of life. This discovery suggests landmasses and freshwater played a crucial role in supporting life within a relatively short time frame after the planet formed.
A Texas A&M-led team has created the first global map of seafloor biodiversity activity, uncovering key environmental factors that drive burrowing animals' activities and ecosystem health. The research highlights the critical role these animals play in regulating carbon, nutrient, and biogeochemical cycles.
A new study found that biodegradable teabags made from polylactic acid (PLA) can take years to break down in soil and cause harm to earthworms. The research highlights the need for clear disposal information on product packaging, as many manufacturers are not providing accurate guidance.
The study presents a comprehensive physical explanation for the sun's activity cycles, attributing them to Rossby waves mediated by planetary tidal influences. This model successfully explains the Schwabe cycle and other solar cycles, providing strong evidence for the planetary hypothesis.
Researchers have discovered a new parameter controlling the main auroral structure of planets, explaining differences in aurora displays on Earth, Saturn and Jupiter. This study provides insights into planetary magnetic fields and solar wind interactions, enhancing our understanding of space environments.
The NASA TESS-Keck Survey catalog features 126 exotic planets with detailed measurements allowing for comparisons with our solar system. Several planets stand out as touchstones for deepening astronomers' understanding of planetary formation and evolution.
Astronomers have discovered an Earth-like exoplanet 40 light-years away with a surface temperature of 42°C (107°F), making it potentially habitable. The discovery of Gliese 12 b offers insights into the evolution of habitability on planets across our galaxy.
A study published in Nature Geoscience elucidates the discrepancy between Martian and Earth-based organic matter. Researchers found that photodissociation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leads to organic matter with depleted carbon-13 content, pointing to an atmospheric process as the main source.
Researchers at Imperial College London and the University of Bristol studied 60 explosive volcanic eruptions worldwide to understand the frequency, composition, and size of eruptions. They found that magma buoyancy, storage time in shallower chambers, and reservoir size are key factors driving eruptions.
A study found that heavy snowfall and rain contribute to earthquake swarms in northern Japan by altering underground pressure. Climate conditions are linked to seismic activity, with the timing of intense precipitation events correlating with the start of quakes.
A team of researchers from the University of Rochester has uncovered evidence that a weak magnetic field millions of years ago may have fueled the proliferation of life. The study suggests that fluctuations in Earth's ancient magnetic field led to shifts in oxygen levels, enabling more advanced life forms to emerge.
A new study challenges the initial detection of a biosignature gas on K2-18b, suggesting that the data may be inconclusive. However, researchers believe it's possible for life to produce detectable levels of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in the planet's atmosphere.
Researchers have found ancient rocks in Greenland that retain signatures of a magnetic field with a strength of at least 15 microtesla, extending the magnetic field's age by 200 million years. The discovery sheds light on the planet's early conditions and may have played a critical role in making Earth habitable.
Scientists have recovered a 3.7-billion-year-old record of Earth's magnetic field, revealing it to be remarkably similar to today's field. The study provides the oldest estimate of the strength of Earth's magnetic field derived from whole rock samples.
Researchers found that human-induced fluid fluxes in the deep subsurface are higher than natural rates, posing environmental impacts. The study highlights the need to manage the subsurface responsibly for a green transition and sustainable future.
Researchers from the University of Potsdam have discovered a long-predicted phenomenon: the weak-to-strong transition in small amplitude space plasma turbulence. This finding confirms key predictions of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) turbulence theory and provides new insights into the universality of strong MHD turbulence.
The study suggests that graphitisation could provide simplicity and a clean environment required for life, theorising that an object roughly the size of the moon hit early Earth around 4.3 billion years ago, depositing iron and other metals that reacted with water to form useful nitrogen-containing compounds.
Researchers have discovered a star orbiting a massive black hole 33 times heavier than the sun's mass, located 1500 light-years away from Earth. The binary system Gaia BH3 contains an ordinary star that seems to have formed over ten billion years ago.
A new study by Heriot-Watt University found that large groups of spectator boats can create loud and sustained noise impacting marine mammals, fishes, and invertebrates. The research suggests event organizers should limit the potential impacts of underwater noise from motorized vessels.
Climate change causes melting of ice sheet, resulting in loss of about 5,000 meteorites per year. Researchers call for urgent action to preserve the scientific value of meteorites and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.