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Mar. 23, 2024World Meteorological Day

"When clouds appear like rocks and towers, the Earth"s refreshed with frequent showers"—there"s a whisper of truth to this old proverb for the storm clouds, also known as cumulonimbus or anvil clouds, which are pictured here. Today, on World Meteorological Day, we honour the marvel that is our atmosphere. This observance, which was first held in 1961, commemorates the establishment of the World Meteorological Organisation in 1950. But this day is more than just a nod to history; it is all about recognising the vital role meteorology plays in our lives. Weather forecasts may not always appear fully reliable, but thanks to advances in technology like satellites and supercomputers, they have come a long way. Because of these advancements, global weather models provide forecasts for up to 16 days and, the average lead time for tornado warnings has gone from -15 minutes in 1974 to around 15 minutes today. Cheers for the progress made and much more to come!Desktop Version

Fourth rock from the sun

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Back to the future

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A different kind of toucan

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Go hug a mountain, if you can

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Aug. 10, 2024Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA

California"s Joshua Tree National Park has a history that began way before it was made a national monument on August 10, 1936. Located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, it has been home to various cultures for thousands of years. Its earliest known residents were people from the Pinto Culture, who lived here from 8000 to 4000 BCE. Centuries later, this land was inhabited by the native Cahuilla, Serrano and Chemehuevi peoples. The park"s namesake, the Joshua tree, grows in a landscape covering 3,218 square kilometres. Despite their name, they are not really trees, but rather a kind of succulent. Native to southwest US and northern Mexico, they can grow up to 12 metres tall.Desktop Version

Mar. 27, 2024World Theatre Day

Today, all the world"s a stage. Every year on March 27, the curtains rise to thunderous applause in celebration of World Theatre Day—an ode to an art form that has influenced the masses for centuries. The day aims to promote theatre and raise awareness of how it has preserved ancient cultures, provided social commentary throughout history, and even helped form our language. Seen in the image today is the Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires, a symbol of Argentina"s rich theatrical heritage. Built in 1908, the theatre is renowned for its grand architecture and exceptional acoustics, making it one of the world"s premier opera houses. Over the years, it has hosted performances by legendary figures such as Enrico Caruso, Richard Strauss, Lily Pons, Marina de Gabaráin, Joss Stone, Branford Marsalis and many more. On this day, dedicated to drama, let"s appreciate this art form that continues to narrate stories in the most spectacular way!Desktop Version

Apr. 17, 2024Black bear cub emerges into spring

Welcome to the world, bear cub! After spending the first months of its life inside the den, this frizzy American black bear child may be puzzled by the outside world. The cubs are born between January and February, but they don"t leave their den until about mid-April or the beginning of May. When the young bears emerge into spring, they weigh around 2 kilograms and grow to about 36 kilograms by their first birthday. The weight of black bears—ranging between 45 and 272 kilograms in the case of adults—however, not only depends on their age, sex and the season but is also based on the diet available in their habitation. Black bears are the only bears found in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, USA, which provides the setting for today"s image.Desktop Version

Nov. 28, 2023Giving Tuesday

As we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of gift shopping and festive decorations, it"s time to remember the true spirit of times like these: generosity and kindness. That"s where Giving Tuesday comes in. This annual holiday, which falls on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the US, was initiated by the United Nations Foundation and New York"s 92nd Street Y—a cultural organisation and community center—over ten years ago. Their vision was to make a difference by providing joy to everyone through acts of charity. Generosity is something we can all practice, and there are many ways to become involved, such as volunteering at a local non-profit organisation, shelter, or food bank, donating to a charity, or simply giving a voice to people in need in your community. So, let"s jump on board with the millions of kind souls, shake hands, and share warm wishes far and wide!Desktop Version

Aug. 20, 2023International Lighthouse Weekend

Every year, on this day, lighthouse enthusiasts and maritime history buffs around the world come together to celebrate International Lighthouse Weekend, which was established by the members of the Ayr Amateur Radio Group in Scotland. It aims to honour the rich history and functionality of these iconic beacons. The event also encourages lighthouse workers and owners to welcome people to view their lighthouses. These humongous structures function by utilising a combination of light, instruments, and precise engineering.Desktop Version

Oct. 5, 2023World Teachers Day

World Teachers" Day, observed on October 5, celebrates our educators, professors, instructors, and all teachers who dedicate their lives to transmitting knowledge, skills and experience. The commemoration is based on the 1966 Paris Conference, held on the same day, in which the adoption of the "1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers" was discussed. The 1966 Recommendation not only acknowledges the essential role of teachers, but also establishes a framework for their rights, responsibilities, and the standards that define their craft.Desktop Version

Nov. 9, 2023Birch trees, Drammen, Norway

Norway is home to many beautiful natural features, and birch forests are one of them. Surrounded by the "silver forests" and situated within the embrace of the fjords, Drammen, a city in Norway, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Birch trees flourish at high altitudes, making them a natural fit for the mountainous region. When summer passes and autumn takes over, birch leaves transform into a mosaic of gold and crimson, in stark contrast to the slender trunks and pale bark. This striking seasonal change may be part of why birch trees are associated with new beginnings and renewal. These trees aren"t just for looks, they provide habitat and sustenance for wildlife and can be used for firewood and in construction.Desktop Version

A galaxy full of stars

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Remembering D-Day

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Oct. 3, 2023Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Sun, sand, and sea come together to create the stunning sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, made up of 74 isles located about 55 kilometres off the coast of Queensland, Australia. Visitors come here to enjoy activities like kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, camping and relaxing at exquisite resorts. It is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a national park, which ensures the protection of the islands, which were once home to the Ngaro people of Australia. This Aboriginal group is also known as the "Canoe People" due to their lifestyle, that revolved around their marine environment. Today, the island"s primary visitors are travellers, divers, campers and adventure seekers. So, pack your sunscreen and explore the pristine white-sand beaches on your next vacation to Australia!Desktop Version

Oct. 21, 2023International Archaeology Day

International Archaeology Day, celebrated on the third Saturday of October, is a tribute to the fascinating world of discovering our past through ancient sites and artifacts. Archaeological organisations across the world present events such as scavenger hunts, lectures, and interactive workshops, all programs to awaken your inner Indiana Jones. This day also piques our curiosity about the mysteries of the past and teaches us about societies and cultural heritage.Desktop Version