The Host Sun of Exoplanet K2-18b
Sky and Telescope
"This artist's concept shows what exoplanet K2-18b could look like based on science data. The exoplanet is 8.6 times as massive as Earth, orbits the cool dwarf star K2-18 in the habitable zone and lies 120 light-years from Earth." Caption from NASA. Image by NASA, CSA, ESA, J. Olmsted (STScI), Science: N. Madhusudhan (Cambridge University). Learn more about the exoplanet here.
Sky and Telescope
"This artist's concept shows what exoplanet K2-18b could look like based on science data. The exoplanet is 8.6 times as massive as Earth, orbits the cool dwarf star K2-18 in the habitable zone and lies 120 light-years from Earth." Caption from NASA. Image by NASA, CSA, ESA, J. Olmsted (STScI), Science: N. Madhusudhan (Cambridge University). Learn more about the exoplanet here.
Consumers Widely Accept Lab-Grown Diamonds, Even If Fewer Prefer Them
JCK Online
In a poll of 2,000 college-educated men and women, ages 25 to 60, with a household annual income over $75,000, 74% were open to a lab-grown diamond engagement ring.
JCK Online
In a poll of 2,000 college-educated men and women, ages 25 to 60, with a household annual income over $75,000, 74% were open to a lab-grown diamond engagement ring.
GIA's U.S. Labs Are Again Accepting Overseas Gems, but the Stones Can't Stay
JCK Online
The Gemological Institute of America offers gem identification and grading services to individuals and to the gem and jewelry trade. They recently have been unable to accept shipments from outside of the United States because of new rules related to tariffs. This article explains how the labs can continue to serve clients from outside of the United States.
JCK Online
The Gemological Institute of America offers gem identification and grading services to individuals and to the gem and jewelry trade. They recently have been unable to accept shipments from outside of the United States because of new rules related to tariffs. This article explains how the labs can continue to serve clients from outside of the United States.
41,000 Years Ago, Auroras Appeared Across the Globe
Sky and Telescope
From the article: "A weakened geomagnetic field left Earth almost defenseless against harmful cosmic radiation 41,000 years ago, but that didn't stop humans from thriving." The image above shows the aurora borealis (the Northern Lights) over Chena Hot Springs, Alaska, photographed by LCDR Gary Barone, NOAA Corps (ret.) in April 2013.
Sky and Telescope
From the article: "A weakened geomagnetic field left Earth almost defenseless against harmful cosmic radiation 41,000 years ago, but that didn't stop humans from thriving." The image above shows the aurora borealis (the Northern Lights) over Chena Hot Springs, Alaska, photographed by LCDR Gary Barone, NOAA Corps (ret.) in April 2013.
Innovative Device Allows South American Paleontologists to Share Fossils With the World
Smithsonian Magazine
Quote from the article: "PaleoScan offers scientists at far-flung institutions a less expensive way to digitize their collections and preserve at-risk specimens of fish, turtles, pterosaurs and more."
Smithsonian Magazine
Quote from the article: "PaleoScan offers scientists at far-flung institutions a less expensive way to digitize their collections and preserve at-risk specimens of fish, turtles, pterosaurs and more."
Emerald: Birthstone for May
Geology.com
Emerald is the traditional birthstone for the month of May. Emerald is a green variety of the beryl mineral family. It is the world's most popular green gem. Image copyright iStockphoto / mikheewnik.
Geology.com
Emerald is the traditional birthstone for the month of May. Emerald is a green variety of the beryl mineral family. It is the world's most popular green gem. Image copyright iStockphoto / mikheewnik.
"Transformational" Satellite Will Monitor Earth's Surface Changes
EOS
From the article: "The mission, jointly operated by the United States and India, will measure minute changes to land, ice, and ecosystems around the globe."
EOS
From the article: "The mission, jointly operated by the United States and India, will measure minute changes to land, ice, and ecosystems around the globe."
What Are Solar Power "Droughts"?
EOS
From the article: "...solar power use is also accompanied by solar power shortages, or "droughts," when demand exceeds supply for at least 3 days. Such shortages can leave millions without access to cooling or cooking abilities."
EOS
From the article: "...solar power use is also accompanied by solar power shortages, or "droughts," when demand exceeds supply for at least 3 days. Such shortages can leave millions without access to cooling or cooking abilities."
Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Could Be Even Worse Than Feared
NBC News
Block diagram view of the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is produced by subduction of the Juan de Fuca Plate under the western edge of the North America Plate. The movements of these plates produce the earthquakes of the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Public domain image by the United States Geological Survey.
NBC News
Block diagram view of the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is produced by subduction of the Juan de Fuca Plate under the western edge of the North America Plate. The movements of these plates produce the earthquakes of the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Public domain image by the United States Geological Survey.
Scientists Strive to Explain the Strange Weather on Other Planets
Smithsonian Magazine
Jupiter's signature stripes and swirls are actually cold, windy clouds of ammonia and water, floating in an atmosphere of hydrogen and helium. Jupiter's iconic Great Red Spot is a giant storm bigger than Earth that has raged for hundreds of years. Image of Jupiter by Kevin M. Gill created from data collected by NASA and displayed here under a Creative Commons license (CC-BY).
Smithsonian Magazine
Jupiter's signature stripes and swirls are actually cold, windy clouds of ammonia and water, floating in an atmosphere of hydrogen and helium. Jupiter's iconic Great Red Spot is a giant storm bigger than Earth that has raged for hundreds of years. Image of Jupiter by Kevin M. Gill created from data collected by NASA and displayed here under a Creative Commons license (CC-BY).
Scientists in Brazil Discover the Oldest Known Ant Fossil
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "The odd-looking specimen with scythe-like jaws indicates that early ants were spread widely across the globe while dinosaurs still roamed."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "The odd-looking specimen with scythe-like jaws indicates that early ants were spread widely across the globe while dinosaurs still roamed."
Fossils of the Green River Formation
Geology.com
Spectacular fish, animal, plant, insect, and other fossils have been found in the rocks of the Green River Formation in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. Shown above is a fossilized bat found in the formation. It is the most primitive bat known. Photo by the National Park Service.
Geology.com
Spectacular fish, animal, plant, insect, and other fossils have been found in the rocks of the Green River Formation in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. Shown above is a fossilized bat found in the formation. It is the most primitive bat known. Photo by the National Park Service.
Trump Moves to Open Seabed Mining - Unnerving Other Nations
Gift Article from the Washington Post
A seafloor manganese nodule collected from the Pacific Ocean. Manganese nodules are often rich in manganese, iron, nickel, copper, and cobalt. The nodule is about four inches across. Creative Commons image by Walter Kolle.
Gift Article from the Washington Post
A seafloor manganese nodule collected from the Pacific Ocean. Manganese nodules are often rich in manganese, iron, nickel, copper, and cobalt. The nodule is about four inches across. Creative Commons image by Walter Kolle.
TMC Submits Application for Deep Sea Mining Under U.S. Law
Mining.com
TMC (The Metals Company) is a Canadian mining company who claims: "We produce base metals from polymetallic nodules, providing the raw materials for building infrastructure, power generation, transmission, and batteries." Source.
Mining.com
TMC (The Metals Company) is a Canadian mining company who claims: "We produce base metals from polymetallic nodules, providing the raw materials for building infrastructure, power generation, transmission, and batteries." Source.
Gold Hits a Record High of $3,400, the Third Milestone in Two Weeks
JCKonline
From the article: "Trade tensions, the volatile U.S. stock market, and fears of President Trump removing Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell were leading investors to embrace gold as a 'safe haven'."
JCKonline
From the article: "Trade tensions, the volatile U.S. stock market, and fears of President Trump removing Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell were leading investors to embrace gold as a 'safe haven'."
The Many Uses of Gold
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Why China Curbing Rare Earth Exports Is a Huge Blow to the United States
BBC
From the article: "China has now also imposed export controls on a range of critical rare earth minerals and magnets, dealing a major blow to the US. The move has laid bare how reliant America is on these minerals." Uses of Rare Earth Elements Graph by Geology.com.
BBC
From the article: "China has now also imposed export controls on a range of critical rare earth minerals and magnets, dealing a major blow to the US. The move has laid bare how reliant America is on these minerals." Uses of Rare Earth Elements Graph by Geology.com.
Rare Earth Element Production is Up... China Is Still the Big Producer
Geology.com
This chart shows a history of rare earth element production, in metric tons of rare earth oxide equivalent, between 1950 and 2022. It clearly shows the United States' entry into the market in the mid-1960s when color television exploded demand. When China began selling rare earths at very low prices in the late 1980s and early 1990s, mines in the United States were forced to close because... read the full caption and article.
Geology.com
This chart shows a history of rare earth element production, in metric tons of rare earth oxide equivalent, between 1950 and 2022. It clearly shows the United States' entry into the market in the mid-1960s when color television exploded demand. When China began selling rare earths at very low prices in the late 1980s and early 1990s, mines in the United States were forced to close because... read the full caption and article.
NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover Studies Trove of Rocks on Crater Rim
NASA
From the article: "The diversity of rock types along the rim of Jezero Crater offers a wide glimpse of Martian history... The diversity of rocks they have found there has gone beyond their expectations."
NASA
From the article: "The diversity of rock types along the rim of Jezero Crater offers a wide glimpse of Martian history... The diversity of rocks they have found there has gone beyond their expectations."
The Moon's Far Side Is Strangely Dry -
It's Much More Parched Than the Side That Faces Earth
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Soil samples from the far side of the moon suggest the little-known, distant face of our natural satellite is much drier than the side that faces Earth". Image of the "Far Side of the Moon" as captured by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter.
It's Much More Parched Than the Side That Faces Earth
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Soil samples from the far side of the moon suggest the little-known, distant face of our natural satellite is much drier than the side that faces Earth". Image of the "Far Side of the Moon" as captured by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter.
In a Town Inundated by Flood Water, One House Remained Dry
Gift Article from the Washington Post
From the article: "A family in western Tennessee built levees around their home -- and managed to keep floodwaters from deluging it earlier this month."
Gift Article from the Washington Post
From the article: "A family in western Tennessee built levees around their home -- and managed to keep floodwaters from deluging it earlier this month."
Largest Fancy Vivid Blue Diamond Ever at Auction Could Fetch $50M
JCKonline
Christie's is set to offer the largest fancy vivid blue diamond ever to appear in an auction. It is a 23.24-carat pear-shape gem with an auction estimate of $35 to $50 million. The gem is part of their Magnificent Jewels sale in Geneva.
JCKonline
Christie's is set to offer the largest fancy vivid blue diamond ever to appear in an auction. It is a 23.24-carat pear-shape gem with an auction estimate of $35 to $50 million. The gem is part of their Magnificent Jewels sale in Geneva.
Satellite Data Show Ground Motion of Burma Earthquakes
NASA Earth Observatory
NASA scientists employed a pixel-tracking method to reveal how much the ground shifted during one of the largest documented surface ruptures of its type. The map above was NASA's Image of the Day for April 15th. Image by NASA Earth Observatory.
NASA Earth Observatory
NASA scientists employed a pixel-tracking method to reveal how much the ground shifted during one of the largest documented surface ruptures of its type. The map above was NASA's Image of the Day for April 15th. Image by NASA Earth Observatory.
Tree Rings Bear Witness to Illegal Gold Mining Operations in the Amazon
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Mercury concentrations in fig trees could provide useful information about mining activity in the rainforest over time."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Mercury concentrations in fig trees could provide useful information about mining activity in the rainforest over time."
Major Budget Cuts Proposed for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Public Radio
After making landfall in Cuba, Hurricane Ian enters the Gulf as a category 3 storm with a trajectory aimed at the gulf coast of Florida. Image by NASA Earth Observatory.
National Public Radio
After making landfall in Cuba, Hurricane Ian enters the Gulf as a category 3 storm with a trajectory aimed at the gulf coast of Florida. Image by NASA Earth Observatory.
Assessment of Undiscovered Oil and Gas Resources in the Los Angeles Basin
United States Geological Survey
"Using a geology-based assessment methodology, the U.S. Geological Survey estimated undiscovered, technically recoverable mean resources of 61 million barrels of oil and 240 billion cubic feet of gas in the Los Angeles Basin Province." Image and caption by the United States Geological Survey.
United States Geological Survey
"Using a geology-based assessment methodology, the U.S. Geological Survey estimated undiscovered, technically recoverable mean resources of 61 million barrels of oil and 240 billion cubic feet of gas in the Los Angeles Basin Province." Image and caption by the United States Geological Survey.
Buried Sediments Point to an Ancient Ocean on Mars
EOS Science News
From the article: "Ground-penetrating radar data collected by [China's] Zhurong rover reveal gently sloping sediments in Mars's northern lowlands that hint at a shoreline."
EOS Science News
From the article: "Ground-penetrating radar data collected by [China's] Zhurong rover reveal gently sloping sediments in Mars's northern lowlands that hint at a shoreline."
Colombian Emerald Miner, Hernando Sanchez, Is Killed in His Home by a Sniper
Colombia Reports
Eight months earlier, his business partner was killed in a similar fashion. Thirteen years earlier Sanchez survived another assassination attempt. The roots of this violence appears to be a combination of emeralds, drugs, money and mine ownership.
Colombia Reports
Eight months earlier, his business partner was killed in a similar fashion. Thirteen years earlier Sanchez survived another assassination attempt. The roots of this violence appears to be a combination of emeralds, drugs, money and mine ownership.
A European Conference on the Status of Space Debris Calls for Immediate Action
Sky & Telescope
An image representing the distribution of space debris around Earth, with objects color-coded by size. Image produced by ESA.
Sky & Telescope
An image representing the distribution of space debris around Earth, with objects color-coded by size. Image produced by ESA.
A Newly Discovered and Brilliantly Green Comet Is Dazzling Astronomers
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Initial observations suggest the comet, called C/2025 F2 (SWAN), will continue getting brighter as it approaches the sun. Northern Hemisphere viewers with binoculars can currently spot it in early morning skies."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Initial observations suggest the comet, called C/2025 F2 (SWAN), will continue getting brighter as it approaches the sun. Northern Hemisphere viewers with binoculars can currently spot it in early morning skies."
A New Satellite Will Map the Carbon Content of Rainforests From Space
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "After more than ten years of development, the European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to launch 'Biomass' - a satellite that will map the carbon content of the world's rainforests." The image is by ESA / ATG Medialab and is displayed here under a Creative Commons license CC-BY-SA 3.0 IGO.
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "After more than ten years of development, the European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to launch 'Biomass' - a satellite that will map the carbon content of the world's rainforests." The image is by ESA / ATG Medialab and is displayed here under a Creative Commons license CC-BY-SA 3.0 IGO.
Field Gemology: Sapphires and Demantoid Garnets from Northern Madagascar
Gemological Institute of America
Wim Vertriest, GIA's manager of field gemology, explores the gems and minerals of Madagascar. He also explains the purpose of field gemology. The photo features two heat treated rubies produced from rough mined in Madagascar.
Gemological Institute of America
Wim Vertriest, GIA's manager of field gemology, explores the gems and minerals of Madagascar. He also explains the purpose of field gemology. The photo features two heat treated rubies produced from rough mined in Madagascar.
Stone Tools Discovered in China Resemble Neanderthal Technology Used in Europe
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Archaeologists previously assumed that East Asia did not see considerable tool development during the Middle Paleolithic, but new findings might change that widely held idea."
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Archaeologists previously assumed that East Asia did not see considerable tool development during the Middle Paleolithic, but new findings might change that widely held idea."
How GSA and OTF Shaped My Paleontology Path
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
A post by Sinjini Sinha, 2017 On To the Future Scholar in the "Careers, Reflection and Scientific Communication" category of the Speaking of Geosciences Blog.
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
A post by Sinjini Sinha, 2017 On To the Future Scholar in the "Careers, Reflection and Scientific Communication" category of the Speaking of Geosciences Blog.
USGS Summary: M 7.7 Earthquake, Mandalay, Burma (Myanmar)
United States Geological Survey
On March 28, 2025, at approximately 12:50 PM local time, a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck near Mandalay, the second largest city in Burma (Myanmar), home to 1.2 million people. The shallow depth of the quake, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), resulted in intense shaking that devastated the region and was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand. The link above is to a USGS article page. You can see the USGS events page for more information.
United States Geological Survey
On March 28, 2025, at approximately 12:50 PM local time, a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck near Mandalay, the second largest city in Burma (Myanmar), home to 1.2 million people. The shallow depth of the quake, about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), resulted in intense shaking that devastated the region and was felt as far away as Bangkok, Thailand. The link above is to a USGS article page. You can see the USGS events page for more information.
Help Stop the Spotted Lanternfly
USDA.gov
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that is causing an enormous amount of damage to our trees and important crops. You can help stop the spread of this pest by finding and destroying spotted lanternfly eggs. The eggs are commonly found on tree trunks, the underside of branches, and other flat surfaces outdoors. They may look like a patch of cracked mud at this time of year. Photo by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
To learn more about the spotted lanternfly, Penn State Extension has compiled lots of useful information.
USDA.gov
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that is causing an enormous amount of damage to our trees and important crops. You can help stop the spread of this pest by finding and destroying spotted lanternfly eggs. The eggs are commonly found on tree trunks, the underside of branches, and other flat surfaces outdoors. They may look like a patch of cracked mud at this time of year. Photo by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
To learn more about the spotted lanternfly, Penn State Extension has compiled lots of useful information.
How to Destroy Spotted Lanternfly Eggs
WHTM - abc27 News
This video shows you how to scrape and destroy spotted lanternfly eggs.
WHTM - abc27 News
This video shows you how to scrape and destroy spotted lanternfly eggs.
Brazil's Rivers Are Leaking
EOS Science News
From the article: "Wells overpumping groundwater could be forcing rivers to seep underground, a new study shows. Regions with intensive irrigation activities are at the most risk."
EOS Science News
From the article: "Wells overpumping groundwater could be forcing rivers to seep underground, a new study shows. Regions with intensive irrigation activities are at the most risk."
The Rivers That Science Says Shouldn't Exist
EOS Science News
From the article: "At first glance, these waterways make no sense. A new review article details why they are the way they are."
EOS Science News
From the article: "At first glance, these waterways make no sense. A new review article details why they are the way they are."
Unusual Drainages of the Americas
Wiley Online Library
From the article: "While most rivers and lakes follow predictable principles of hydrology and geology, a few seem to defy the rules. Some rivers diverge rather than converge; some rivers flow in two directions; some lakes have not one but two outlets; some watersheds have ambiguous boundaries." This article provides detailed examples with maps.
Wiley Online Library
From the article: "While most rivers and lakes follow predictable principles of hydrology and geology, a few seem to defy the rules. Some rivers diverge rather than converge; some rivers flow in two directions; some lakes have not one but two outlets; some watersheds have ambiguous boundaries." This article provides detailed examples with maps.
USGS Deploys Equipment to Measure Waves in Upper Mississippi River's Pool 13
United States Geological Survey
A buoy marks the location of equipment during the 2024 monitoring season. The equipment was placed below the water surface to monitor waves and water clarity from early April through mid-September, 2024. Photo by Kristen Bouska, USGS.
United States Geological Survey
A buoy marks the location of equipment during the 2024 monitoring season. The equipment was placed below the water surface to monitor waves and water clarity from early April through mid-September, 2024. Photo by Kristen Bouska, USGS.
Glacial Losses in the Swiss Alps
(Before and after of the Great Aletsch and nearby glaciers)
NASA Earth Observatory
From the article: "Images bridging four decades show where the largest glacier in Switzerland and its neighbors have been losing ice." NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Kathryn Hansen with image interpretation by Christopher Shuman, UMBC (retired).
(Before and after of the Great Aletsch and nearby glaciers)
NASA Earth Observatory
From the article: "Images bridging four decades show where the largest glacier in Switzerland and its neighbors have been losing ice." NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Kathryn Hansen with image interpretation by Christopher Shuman, UMBC (retired).
From Worlds That Look Like Cotton Candy to Others Covered in Volcanoes,
These Are the Strangest and Most Captivating Exoplanets
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Scientists are using an array of instruments to detect other planets, some of which may harbor life - and others that most definitely don't." The image is composed of an artist's impression of ten hot exoplanets similar to Jupiter outside of our solar system. Image by ESA / Hubble and NASA.
These Are the Strangest and Most Captivating Exoplanets
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Scientists are using an array of instruments to detect other planets, some of which may harbor life - and others that most definitely don't." The image is composed of an artist's impression of ten hot exoplanets similar to Jupiter outside of our solar system. Image by ESA / Hubble and NASA.
Gold Hits $3,100 an Ounce, Yet Another New Benchmark
JCKonline
This is an all-time high for the price of gold.
JCKonline
This is an all-time high for the price of gold.
The Many Uses of Gold
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Diamond: Birthstone for April
Geology.com
Diamond is the traditional birthstone for the month of April. These days, a person born in April has many options for birthstone jewelry. Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds, and they are available in a variety of colors. Another option is a natural colored diamond - if you are willing to pay a premium price. Image copyright iStockphoto / Greg Stanfield.
Geology.com
Diamond is the traditional birthstone for the month of April. These days, a person born in April has many options for birthstone jewelry. Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds, and they are available in a variety of colors. Another option is a natural colored diamond - if you are willing to pay a premium price. Image copyright iStockphoto / Greg Stanfield.
Climber Dies in Fall on Ben Nevis, U.K.'s Highest Mountain
CBS News
From the article: "One young climber died and another was injured after they fell over the weekend on the United Kingdom's tallest mountain, Ben Nevis in Scotland, rescuers said Monday."
Ben Nevis is located in Scotland near the community of Fort William (directly below the "SC" of Scotland), in the map above.
CBS News
From the article: "One young climber died and another was injured after they fell over the weekend on the United Kingdom's tallest mountain, Ben Nevis in Scotland, rescuers said Monday."
Ben Nevis is located in Scotland near the community of Fort William (directly below the "SC" of Scotland), in the map above.
M 7.0 Earthquake: 73 km SE of Pangai, Tonga
United States Geological Survey
The earthquake was felt on numerous islands within the Tonga and Niue archipelagos.
United States Geological Survey
The earthquake was felt on numerous islands within the Tonga and Niue archipelagos.
Coastal Hydrogeology: Waties Island, South Carolina
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
Understanding Local Factors Controlling Ecology and Habitat Resiliency on Waties Island, South Carolina
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
Understanding Local Factors Controlling Ecology and Habitat Resiliency on Waties Island, South Carolina
More About Colored Diamonds
Geology.com
Colored diamonds are diamonds that have a noticeable bodycolor when viewed in the face-up position. Brown and yellow are the most common colors in natural colored diamonds. Diamonds with natural pink, blue, orange, green, red, and violet bodycolors are extremely rare. Images in the wonderful collection of colored diamonds shown above are used with permission of IBD Fancy Colors LLC.
Geology.com
Colored diamonds are diamonds that have a noticeable bodycolor when viewed in the face-up position. Brown and yellow are the most common colors in natural colored diamonds. Diamonds with natural pink, blue, orange, green, red, and violet bodycolors are extremely rare. Images in the wonderful collection of colored diamonds shown above are used with permission of IBD Fancy Colors LLC.
Curiosity Rover Detects Long-Chain Carbon Molecules on Mars
Science
From the article: "Fatty acid byproducts could be the remains of microbes - or not."
Science
From the article: "Fatty acid byproducts could be the remains of microbes - or not."
Anthropocene Deserves Official Recognition, Some Experts Maintain
EOS Science News
From the article: "The International Union of Geological Sciences chose not to designate a new geologic epoch, but the matter is not yet settled."
EOS Science News
From the article: "The International Union of Geological Sciences chose not to designate a new geologic epoch, but the matter is not yet settled."
Vice President Vance Visiting Greenland as Trump Eyes U.S. Territorial Expansion
Gift Article from the Washington Post
Gift Article from the Washington Post
The Deep Frontier of Mantle Magma Supply
EOS Science News
From the article: "Compared with crustal magma systems, little is known about the deep sources of volcanic supply chains. Interdisciplinary efforts can help answer key questions about how magma migrates from the mantle."
EOS Science News
From the article: "Compared with crustal magma systems, little is known about the deep sources of volcanic supply chains. Interdisciplinary efforts can help answer key questions about how magma migrates from the mantle."
M 7.7 Earthquake Hits Myanmar and Thailand; Bangkok High-Rise Collapses
Gift Article from the Washington Post
The earthquake's epicenter was near the city of Mandalay. More than 600 miles away in Bangkok, a high-rise under construction collapsed.
Gift Article from the Washington Post
The earthquake's epicenter was near the city of Mandalay. More than 600 miles away in Bangkok, a high-rise under construction collapsed.
1 in 8 Californians Now Face Extreme Fire Danger
Gift Article From the Washington Post
One in 8 Californians now live in places at risk for the kinds of devastating wildfires that tore through Los Angeles this winter, according to a Washington Post analysis of state fire maps released on Monday.
Gift Article From the Washington Post
One in 8 Californians now live in places at risk for the kinds of devastating wildfires that tore through Los Angeles this winter, according to a Washington Post analysis of state fire maps released on Monday.
Key Findings in the National Water Availability Assessment
United States Geological Survey
This interactive website highlights key scientific findings of the National Water Availability Assessment report through engaging stories, plain-language explanations, and interactive data visualizations.
United States Geological Survey
This interactive website highlights key scientific findings of the National Water Availability Assessment report through engaging stories, plain-language explanations, and interactive data visualizations.
Greenland Is Hard to Defend. As Trump Threatens, the Danes Are Trying.
Gift Article from the Washington Post
...as tensions rise across a melting, militarizing Arctic, Greenland, the world's largest island, is back on the map.
Gift Article from the Washington Post
...as tensions rise across a melting, militarizing Arctic, Greenland, the world's largest island, is back on the map.
What Marks the Southern Boundary of the Arctic?
Geology.com
Boundaries of the Arctic: This map shows the three boundaries commonly used to define the southern geographic extent of the Arctic: 1) the Arctic Circle (shown as a dashed blue line); 2) the area where the average temperature of the warmest month is less than ten degrees Celsius (shown as a solid red line); and, 3) the arctic treeline (shown as a solid green line). Public domain image from the CIA Factbook, treeline added by the National Snow and Ice Data Center.
Geology.com
Boundaries of the Arctic: This map shows the three boundaries commonly used to define the southern geographic extent of the Arctic: 1) the Arctic Circle (shown as a dashed blue line); 2) the area where the average temperature of the warmest month is less than ten degrees Celsius (shown as a solid red line); and, 3) the arctic treeline (shown as a solid green line). Public domain image from the CIA Factbook, treeline added by the National Snow and Ice Data Center.
NYC Will Eventually Have to Abandon Part of Its Water Supply If It Keeps Getting Saltier
Associated Press
From the article: Suburban road salt is contaminating ten percent of NYC's reservoir water supply, threatening its future use.
Associated Press
From the article: Suburban road salt is contaminating ten percent of NYC's reservoir water supply, threatening its future use.
Rock Salt: A Sedimentary Rock With Many Uses that is Composed of the Mineral Halite
Geology.com
Rock Salt of various colors offered for sale at a spice shop in the Chandni Chowk markets in Old Delhi, India. Photo by Christopher Bellette / Alamy Stock Photo.
Geology.com
Rock Salt of various colors offered for sale at a spice shop in the Chandni Chowk markets in Old Delhi, India. Photo by Christopher Bellette / Alamy Stock Photo.
Water Stored in the Mantle for Millions of Years May Be Linked to Continental Volcanism
EOS Science News
From the article: "New research shows that intraplate volcanism is more likely to occur over areas of the mantle that are more hydrated - particularly those that have been hydrated for a long, long time."
EOS Science News
From the article: "New research shows that intraplate volcanism is more likely to occur over areas of the mantle that are more hydrated - particularly those that have been hydrated for a long, long time."
Seismometers Provide Fuller Picture of Los Angeles Groundwater
EOS Science News
From the article: "A new method to evaluate deep aquifers shows even torrential rains have not fully replenished groundwater beneath Los Angeles."
EOS Science News
From the article: "A new method to evaluate deep aquifers shows even torrential rains have not fully replenished groundwater beneath Los Angeles."
A New Hydrothermal Feature at Yellowstone
United States Geological Survey
From the article: "The summer of 2024 was a busy time, with July's hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin and the first hydrothermal explosion ever recorded by geophysical monitoring data in Norris Geyser Basin. In addition to these higher energy events, a new hydrothermal feature popped up right in front of our eyes - literally!"
About the photo: Looking south from near a pullout along the Mammoth to Norris road just north of the Nymph Lake overlook. On the other side of the marsh is a tree-covered rhyolite lava flow, and at the base of the flow is a new thermal feature marked by a plume of steam and that formed in early August 2024. Photo by Mike Poland, USGS, September 1, 2024.
United States Geological Survey
From the article: "The summer of 2024 was a busy time, with July's hydrothermal explosion at Biscuit Basin and the first hydrothermal explosion ever recorded by geophysical monitoring data in Norris Geyser Basin. In addition to these higher energy events, a new hydrothermal feature popped up right in front of our eyes - literally!"
About the photo: Looking south from near a pullout along the Mammoth to Norris road just north of the Nymph Lake overlook. On the other side of the marsh is a tree-covered rhyolite lava flow, and at the base of the flow is a new thermal feature marked by a plume of steam and that formed in early August 2024. Photo by Mike Poland, USGS, September 1, 2024.
Studying This Slow-Moving Alaskan Landslide May Help Avert Future Disaster
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: If the landslide at the Barry Arm fjord collapses, its falling ice and rock could generate a devastating 650-foot-high tsunami. See the story and video about the Lituya Bay Tsunami below.
The aerial photograph above shows the landslide at Barry Arm fjord with the Barry Glacier below and to its right, and, the Cascade Glacier descending the slope on the left of the moving mass. The photo was taken by Christian E Zimmerman, Ph.D., Director of the Alaska Science Center. Public Domain.
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: If the landslide at the Barry Arm fjord collapses, its falling ice and rock could generate a devastating 650-foot-high tsunami. See the story and video about the Lituya Bay Tsunami below.
The aerial photograph above shows the landslide at Barry Arm fjord with the Barry Glacier below and to its right, and, the Cascade Glacier descending the slope on the left of the moving mass. The photo was taken by Christian E Zimmerman, Ph.D., Director of the Alaska Science Center. Public Domain.
The Most Visited - and the Least Visited - National Parks in 2024
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: America's national park sites saw a record number of visitors last year. Great Smoky Mountains, Zion and Grand Canyon national parks are perennial favorites among travelers. The image above is a photograph from Joshua Tree National Park by Brad Sutton, NPS staff member.
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: America's national park sites saw a record number of visitors last year. Great Smoky Mountains, Zion and Grand Canyon national parks are perennial favorites among travelers. The image above is a photograph from Joshua Tree National Park by Brad Sutton, NPS staff member.
How to Value Opal and Why It's a Head-Scratcher (Video Included)
Black Opal Direct
This article contains a video in which Justin, owner of Black Opal Direct, explains how opals are graded using the 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight) and how the grading goes into other characteristics of opal such as body tone, brightness, pattern, play-of-color, color combinations, and more. Hear it from an expert.
Black Opal Direct
This article contains a video in which Justin, owner of Black Opal Direct, explains how opals are graded using the 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight) and how the grading goes into other characteristics of opal such as body tone, brightness, pattern, play-of-color, color combinations, and more. Hear it from an expert.
All About Opals of All Kinds
Geology.com
Opal is one of the world's most popular gemstones and the birthstone for the month of October. A nice precious opal can flash every color of the spectrum with an intensity and quality of color that surpasses the fire of diamond. Visit the Geology.com Gemstones page.
Geology.com
Opal is one of the world's most popular gemstones and the birthstone for the month of October. A nice precious opal can flash every color of the spectrum with an intensity and quality of color that surpasses the fire of diamond. Visit the Geology.com Gemstones page.
Understanding the Connection Between Isla Tortuga Volcano and
Magmatism in the Guaymas Basin (Gulf of California, Mexico)
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
From the article: "As Isla Tortuga is a relatively young volcano in the central Gulf of California, Mexico, one might expect it to be frequently visited by geologists. However, after Rodey Batiza's expeditions in the 1970s, to our knowledge no other geologists have set foot on the island for research purposes."
About the map: The base map is a blank vector graphic created by Yavidaxiu and distributed under a Gnu Free Documents License. Semhur improved the appearance of the map and added geographic boundaries. Then, Kmusser changed the projection of the map to standardize it with similar maps on Wikipedia, and Wikigraphists improved the map, added the push pin, and shared it under a Creative Commons License. Thanks to everyone!
Magmatism in the Guaymas Basin (Gulf of California, Mexico)
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
From the article: "As Isla Tortuga is a relatively young volcano in the central Gulf of California, Mexico, one might expect it to be frequently visited by geologists. However, after Rodey Batiza's expeditions in the 1970s, to our knowledge no other geologists have set foot on the island for research purposes."
About the map: The base map is a blank vector graphic created by Yavidaxiu and distributed under a Gnu Free Documents License. Semhur improved the appearance of the map and added geographic boundaries. Then, Kmusser changed the projection of the map to standardize it with similar maps on Wikipedia, and Wikigraphists improved the map, added the push pin, and shared it under a Creative Commons License. Thanks to everyone!
A Sign in Space
A Sign in Space YouTube Channel
A Sign in Space is an interdisciplinary project by media artist Daniela de Paulis, in collaboration with the SETI Institute, the European Space Agency, the Green Bank Observatory and INAF, the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics.
A Sign in Space YouTube Channel
A Sign in Space is an interdisciplinary project by media artist Daniela de Paulis, in collaboration with the SETI Institute, the European Space Agency, the Green Bank Observatory and INAF, the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics.
Forget About Rare Earth Minerals. We Need More Copper
National Public Radio
From the article: The demand for copper has surged in the past two decades, driving its price up nearly 75% since 2020.
National Public Radio
From the article: The demand for copper has surged in the past two decades, driving its price up nearly 75% since 2020.
Gold Hits New Milestone --- $3,000 an Ounce
JCKonline
From the article: "On March 14, the spot price of gold crossed a once unimaginable milestone -- $3,000 an ounce."
JCKonline
From the article: "On March 14, the spot price of gold crossed a once unimaginable milestone -- $3,000 an ounce."
The Many Uses of Gold
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
Geology.com
The United States government currently mints coins from gold and other precious metals; however, they are intended for investment and collecting. They are not intended for use as legal tender.
USGS Releases Assessment of Undiscovered Oil and Gas Resources in WY and MT
United States Geological Survey
The U.S. Geological Survey released its assessment of potential for undiscovered oil and gas in formations under Wyoming and parts of southern Montana as well as parts of western South Dakota and Nebraska, assessing that there are technically recoverable resources of 47 million barrels of oil and 876 billion cubic feet of gas. Map by the United States Geological Survey.
United States Geological Survey
The U.S. Geological Survey released its assessment of potential for undiscovered oil and gas in formations under Wyoming and parts of southern Montana as well as parts of western South Dakota and Nebraska, assessing that there are technically recoverable resources of 47 million barrels of oil and 876 billion cubic feet of gas. Map by the United States Geological Survey.
A New Perspective on the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill:
What Can Benthic Foraminifera Tell Us 14 Years After the Spill?
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
What Can Benthic Foraminifera Tell Us 14 Years After the Spill?
Speaking of Geosciences Blog
World's Largest Oil Spills Map
Geology.com
This map shows the location of eleven of the world's largest oil spills. The colored squares indicate the source of the spill - war (red), a well on land (green), a well in the ocean (blue) or a ship (black). Map copyright by Geology.com.
Geology.com
This map shows the location of eleven of the world's largest oil spills. The colored squares indicate the source of the spill - war (red), a well on land (green), a well in the ocean (blue) or a ship (black). Map copyright by Geology.com.
Tiny Icequakes Ripple Through Greenland's Largest Ice Stream
EOS Science News
Tiny quakes have been recorded in the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream. This glacier is the largest ice stream on Greenland and carries about 12% of the island's ice discharge into the North Atlantic Ocean.
EOS Science News
Tiny quakes have been recorded in the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream. This glacier is the largest ice stream on Greenland and carries about 12% of the island's ice discharge into the North Atlantic Ocean.
Students Walked Past This Rock for 20 Years...
It Turned Out to Host 66 Dinosaur Footprints From the Jurassic Period
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "A paleontologist studied the 200-million-year-old prints that had been hiding in plain sight, then discovered even more tracks in another rock sitting in a nearby parking lot."
It Turned Out to Host 66 Dinosaur Footprints From the Jurassic Period
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "A paleontologist studied the 200-million-year-old prints that had been hiding in plain sight, then discovered even more tracks in another rock sitting in a nearby parking lot."
The Six Most Amazing Discoveries Made by Exploring Uranus
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Don't let the placid and bland surface fool you -- Uranus is a singularly dynamic planet." Image of Uranus by NASA and Caltech.
Smithsonian Magazine
From the article: "Don't let the placid and bland surface fool you -- Uranus is a singularly dynamic planet." Image of Uranus by NASA and Caltech.