5th March, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
● Desert Wonders: Awe-inspiring star dunes rise from desert landscapes, their arms stretching towards the heavens like giant, sandy pyramids. ● Nature's Architects: But how do these magnificent formations come to be? Scientists have been digging deep (literally!) for answers.
● Winds of Change: Unlike regular dunes, star dunes form where winds blow from multiple directions. ● Building Blocks: Over time, sand accumulates around a central point, creating a multi-armed, star-like structure. ● Towers of Sand: These dunes can reach colossal heights, up to 1,000 feet tall!
● Layers of Time: Scientists used ground-penetrating radar to peek inside a Moroccan star dune. ● Dune Diaries: They discovered distinct layers of sand, revealing how the dune grew over centuries. ● Ancient Clues: Studying these layers helps scientists unlock the secrets of past climates and wind patterns.
● Time Travelers: It takes centuries for star dunes to form fully. The dune studied accumulated about 6,400 metric tons of sand every year. ● On the Move: Star dunes don't stay put! Wind continuously shifts them, albeit very slowly (around 1.6 feet per year in the case of the Moroccan dune).
A World War II hero, Eisenhower brought a sense of stability and leadership to the post-war era. He served two terms, leaving office at 70.
● Awe-Inspiring Beauty: Star dunes aren't just a scientific puzzle but breathtaking natural wonders. ● Fragile Giants: Understanding these dynamic formations is key to their preservation in the face of climate change and human impact.