Lights across the Earth are pictured in this NASA handout satellite image obtained by Reuters December 5, 2012.
Earth from Above: Sometimes, we all need a reminder that the Earth is in fact rather beautiful. These satellite images, all acquired from Google Earth, highlight our planet’s natural fractal patterns, from the ice of Greenland to the waters of Spain. (Flavorwire)
Recycling, Explained: Today, help save the Earth by recycling some stuff, then educate yourself on what all those cryptic recycling symbols and codes mean anyway. Actually, you may want to do that part first. (mental_floss)
What Makes the Earth Go ‘Round: From cuddly koalas and huggable hamsters to sensitive sloths and considerate kittens, these animals know what love is. And as we all know, love makes the world go ’round. Also, cute animals. (BuzzFeed)
The Earth’s Mass is 6 Sextillion Tons: And 14 other fun tidbits — plus one bonus fact — about the planet we call home. (Slate)
A Run Around the World: Looking for a great way to see the Earth? Try “ultrarunning.” Races can last for weeks at a time, and crisscross every corner of the world, from Colorado to Greece to Nepal. (The New York Times)
The Coldest City on Earth: Plenty of people are worried that the planet is warming up, but they’re probably not too concerned about that in Yakutsk, Siberia. Click here to see photos from what’s considered the coldest city on earth, although you might want to grab a sweater. (TIME.com)
And a Tribute to Space: We’re celebrating Earth today, but here’s a special shout-out to the zero-gravity parts of our universe. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, who’s been tweeting photos and recording duets with the Barenaked Ladies from his post aboard the International Space Station, shows happens when you wring out a washcloth in space. A mundane activity on Earth, yes, but in space, the result is oddly enthralling. (The Daily What)