Human World

Image of blood vessel in brain looks like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

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December 23, 2010

Sure, we’ll play along. Scientists at Newcastle University in the U.K. decided a close-up image of a blood vessel looks like a reindeer with antlers flying through a starry sky.

As they saw it, even an eye and tail are visible as part of the pin head-sized vessel. So they enhanced the image to bring out the red nose and white antlers. Rudolph, is that you?

These scientists had been studying the inner workings of neurons in the hippocampus region of the brain when they happened upon this image and enhanced it for our holiday pleasure. Several news reports said the scientists were amazed at this image. Amused is more like it. Those crazy Brits!

Are we having a fun Christmas yet?

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December 23, 2010

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Human World

Deborah Byrd

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Deborah Byrd (asteroid 3505 Byrd) helps edit EarthSky.org and is a frequent host of EarthSky videos. Deborah created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Prior to that, she had worked for the University of Texas McDonald Observatory since 1976, and created and produced their Star Date radio series. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named in her honor in 1990, a Public Service Award from the National Science Board in 2003, and the Education Prize from the American Astronomical Society in 2020. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.