“Holding on for a ride” by Alexander Fine.
Animal: Brown Bear
“Mother brown bear trying to go and her cubs want a ride instead of walking.”

With just one month left before the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards closes for entries, they've given us a sneak preview of some of the hilarious images submitted thus far. From clingy kids to a three-headed giraffe, these photos are sure to bring a smile to your face.

The Awards, founded in 2015, caters to both professional and amateur photographers and uses humor to bring attention to conservation issues. Each year, the photo contest supports a sustainable conservation organization. This year, the Whitley Fund for Nature will receive that support. The UK-based non-profit supports local conservation leaders working in their home country and has assisted more than 200 conservationists in 90 countries over the past 30 years.

“It’s a pleasure to be working with the Comedy Wildlife team—fantastic partners who share our commitment to generating vital awareness of conservation through the power of photography,” says Stefan Maier, Nikon Europe senior general manager marketing. “With only one month to go to enter the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards, we’ve loved seeing all the hilarious entries so far, and look forward to receiving more entertaining wildlife shots over the next month.”

The contest is free to enter and is accepting submissions until July 31. So, if you have a humorous wildlife photo you'd like to share, what are you waiting for? The winner will receive a safari in Kenya's iconic Maasai Mara, while other prizes include Nikon photo equipment. And, for the first time, all of the finalists will see their work on display in a special exhibit in London.

Check out some silly early entries for the 2024 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards.

“Laughing outloud” by Ingo Hamann.
Animal: Seal
“This newborn seal seems to be laughing at a good joke.”

“Three heads are better than one” by John Mullineux.
Animal: Giraffe
“Two male giraffe were fighting shortly after drinking some water in the green Kalahari. They again started sizing each other up but ended up scooching over to a third giraffe. In a single moment, the three formed one body with three heads.”

“Did You Hear the One About The….?” by Wendy Kaveney.
Animal: Polar bear
“Anthropomorphic antics of polar bears (Ursus maritimus) telling each other jokes and laughing hysterically.”

“Slow hands” by Harry Collins.
Animal: Three toed sloth
“A sloth in Costa Rica that looks like he may have been a guitar player in a previous life. This image gives new meaning to Eric Clapton's nickname ‘slowhand.'”

“Watch Out For That Tree” by Mark Koster.
Animal: Male mallard duck
“A male mallard flying appears to be running into a tree at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale, actually was flying behind it!”

Open to both professionals and amateurs, the photo contest is open for entries until July 31.

“Pick Me Pick Meeeeee” by Thomas Van Puymbroeck.
Animal: Sea turtle
“Who wants to live in a plastic-free ocean? Meeeee.”

“Three's A Crowd” by Deena Sveinsson.
Animal: Chinstrap penguins
“When we finally arrived at Half Moon Island in the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica our unassuming expedition ship was greeted by a beautiful white and snowy landscape. We zipped across the cold ocean waters, and upon disembarking the zodiacs, the group was careful to follow the increased biosecurity measures that were put into effect in Antarctica due to the bird flu. Arriving in the spring and the very early tourist season, we didn't have the large number of chinstrap penguins I had imagined we would. I expected thousands of them, but we were only greeted by a few hundred. As this was our first stop in Antarctica, I quickly started to take the usual photographs we all seemed to see. But then, in the distance, I saw these three chinstrap penguins hanging out with one another, having a good time. I walked as quickly as I could with a torn meniscus and a sprained MCL on my right knee. When I reached the penguins, it happened suddenly, there seemed to be a slight ruckus and some disagreement. Shortly after that, the penguin pair briskly walked off leaving the poor little lone fella wondering why he was left. I couldn't help but laugh when I viewed this photo on the back of my camera. How humanlike. And how awful it must be to be that third wheel.”

“Not a good idea” by Anton Pretorius.
Animal: Buffalo and cattle egret
“This western cattle egret thinking of having a go at the male organ of a buffalo.”

“Peak A Boo!” by Tilan Weerasinghe.
Animal: White-breasted waterhen
“A water cock giving a hilarious action.”

Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by the Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards.

Related Articles:

Adorably Funny Winners of the 2024 Comedy Pet Photo Awards

Funny Finalists of the 2023 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

Kangaroo Strumming an Air Guitar Wins Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards

These Early Entries From the 2022 Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards Are a Hoot

READ: Funny Early Entries of the 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards

“Sleeping cuckoos” by Luke Chambers (UK). First Place, Over 18.
Species: Black-thighed Cellophane-cuckoo bees, Epeolus variegatus
“Two cuckoo bees (Epeolus variegatus) fast asleep, grasping onto the grass with their mandibles. Still with a few drops of morning dew on them.”

The UK's leading insect science charity has announced the winners of its annual photo competition. Each year, the Royal Entomological Society asks amateur insect photographers to bring the miniature world of bugs to life, and this year was no exception. Luke Chambers was named the overall winner for his interesting look at two bees and their unusual sleeping habits.

Sleeping insects also netted 17-year-old Gustav Parenmark the win in the under 18 division. His winning image shows a banded demoiselle damselfly at rest. Parenmark, who is also a previous winner, shared the secret to his success in capturing the damselfly at rest.

“Waking up early is the key to photographing sleeping odonates,” he shares. “This species of damselfly is usually very skittish, but I went out at 4 a.m. to capture them inactive, making them easier to photograph.”

While macro photography is often used to capture insects, the competition's smartphone category proves that this type of photography can be accomplished without expensive equipment.

“Photography like this provides a window into the astonishing complexity and beauty of the insect world,” shares head judge Dr. Tim Cockerill, who is a broadcaster, photographer, and senior lecturer at Falmouth University. “It’s so often that technological advances destroy our engagement with the natural world, but the results of our competition show exactly the opposite trend can be possible. At a time when insects face huge threats, I hope this collection of stunning images helps to showcase just how important—and beautiful—they really are.”

Scroll down to see our favorite winners and finalists of the 2023 Royal Entomological Society photo contest.

Here are the winners of the 2023 Royal Entomological Society photo contest.

“Tranquility” by Gustav Parenmark (Sweden). First Place, Under 18.
Species: Banded Demoiselle damselfly, Calopteryx splendens, male
“I was able to find many of these gorgeous banded demoiselle by a river near my home in Gävle, Sweden. With the help of the nearby blades of grass I could create foreground and background elements in order to create depth in the image.”

“Caddisfly larvae in a jelly egg sac” by Tim Jonas (UK). Second Place, Over 18.
Species: Mottled Sedge caddisfly, Glyphotaelius pellucidus
“Photographed in-situ on a leaf overhanging water, this image shows recently hatched caddisfly larvae inside a transparent gelatinous egg sac. The larvae will drop into the water where they live as aquatic insects throughout the larval and pupal stages.”

“A forest gem” by Alexander McKerracher (Canada). Environment Specially Commended.
Species: Wavy-lined Emerald Moth, Synchlora aerata, male
“This photo features a beautiful Wavy-lined Emerald Moth sitting on a mossy log. Taking a break from its adventures through the trees, this moth is displaying all of its beauty for us to appreciate.”

“Purple Fire” by Gustav Parenmark (Sweden). Under 18 Specially Commended.
Species: Leafcutter bee, Megachile lagopoda
“The nature reserve of ”Södra Hällarna”, located on the western coast of Gotland, Sweden is home to a very delicate fauna of bees, such as this Megachile lagopoda, a powerfully built insect that I found sleeping in some greater knapweed, (Centaurea scabiosa).”

“Look into my eyes” by Pete Burford (UK). Portraits Specially Commended
Species: Damselfly
“Here is a Damselfly covered in Dew in the middle of the night. Insects are cold blooded, so as the temperature cools at night, they are unable to move. Dew then sticks to the Damselfly and covers it completely.”

“Pollinator” by Michael Wood (UK). Over 18 Smartphone Specially Commended.
Species: Common carder bumble bee, Bombus pascuorum
“A bee doing bee things.”

“Gold digger” by Paul Fraser (UK). Portraits Specially Commended.
Species: Digger Wasp, Crabonidae
“A close-up portrait of a digger wasp species that I found excavating chambers in a raised bed planter at my work.”

“Photography like this provides a window into the astonishing complexity and beauty of the insect world.”

“Robber fly breakfast” by Jamie Smart (UK). Second Place, Under 18.
Species: Slender-footed robber fly, Leptarththrus brevirostris
“I was up early one morning and decided to have a wander around our wild garden with my camera when I saw this fly on grass. I didn't realize until looking on the computer that he was actually eating another fly! Double whammy!”

“Crimson-speckled moth perching” by Abdullah Shehabuddeen (Saudi Arabia). Under 18 Smartphone Specially Commended.
Species: Crimson Speckled moth, Utetheisa pulchella
“A white moth, spotted all over with beautiful red, orange, yellow, and black patterns, is perched onto delicate white flowers that contrast against the lush background greenery. This photo reflects nature's astounding colors and beauty.”

“A wasp joined us for a cream tea” by Abi Batten (UK). Smartphone Specially Commended.
Species: German wasp, Vespula germanica
“Wasp who seemed to enjoy sharing a cream tea with us, favored raspberry jam over blackcurrant and was very polite.”

“Moths and mountains” by Marian Coburn (UK). Over 18 Smartphone Specially Commended.
Species: Emperor moth, Saturnia pavonia, male
“A male Emperor moth (Saturnia pavonia) at rest on heather on the slopes of Meall Buidhe with the peak of Stuchd an Lochain in the background. These are two Scottish mountains (Munros).”

“Natures jewels” by Nikita Richardson (Australia). Behavior Specially Commended.
Species: Cotton harlequin bugs, Tectocoris diophthalmus, final-instar nymphs.
“A cluster of male harlequin bugs.”

“Earwig” by Zhang Yimeng (China). Under 18 Smartphone Specially Commended.
Species: Earwig, Eudohrnia metallica
“I took a walk in Yunnan in the evening to see it, very beautiful, lying on a leaf so I took a picture.”

“Junk bug” by Rosa Dunbar (Australia). Behavior Specially Commended.
Species: Lacewing larva, Chrysopa sp.
“The junk bug, a voracious predator in the insect world, earns its name by wearing plant matter and the exoskeletons of past victims on its back as part of an intricate camouflage to deceive predators.”

Royal Entomological Society: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by the Royal Entomological Society.

Related Articles:

Photo Contest Winners Give a Close-Up Look at the Beauty of Water

Macro Photography Highlights Beauty of Extinct and Endangered Insects

Enchanting Macro Photos Take Us Inside the Magical World of Tiny Insects

Watch a Cast of Insects Take Flight in This Extreme Slow-Motion Video Filmed at 3,200 FPS

READ: Pair of Resting Cuckoo Bees Wins the Royal Entomological Society’s Insect Photo Competition

“Plane In Front Of Eclipse” by Ryan Spangenberg. First Place.

Millions turned out to watch April 8's North American solar eclipse, and Kolari Vision helped photographers safely capture images of the total eclipse. To celebrate the big event, Kolari ran its inaugural Solar Eclipse Photography Contest. Now, they've announced the winners and several exceptional honorable mentions.

Ryan Spangenberg won the competition with his unique image of a plane hugging the side of the total eclipse. Two incredible moments of totality by Keith Double and Justin Castel took home second and third place, respectively. For the honorable mentions, two standouts are cool composite images by both Joe Luther and Jonathan Sullivan that clearly show all the phases of the eclipse.

Kolari, known for its infrared filters and camera conversions, used the photo contest to educate the public about documenting such an event. Its 15-stop and 20-stop ND filters allow photographers to safely take photos of the solar eclipse without ruining their camera equipment.

ND filters work by reducing the amount of light that enters the camera lens without compromising the color or hue of the image. This makes them perfect for photographing eclipses. However, just because these filters keep cameras safe, it doesn't mean they are safe for the human eye.

“Do not look through the optical viewfinder on your DSLR camera when pointing it at the Sun, even when using an ND filter, and DO NOT look directly at the Sun through an ND filter,” Kolari warns. “These filters are not rated for your eyes, and your eyes will be damaged if you do this. However, it is perfectly safe to use live view or look through the EVF on a mirrorless camera.”

If you are looking for another eclipse opportunity, an annular eclipse will take place on October 2, 2024. It will be fully visible in South America and appear as a partial eclipse in North America.

Scroll down to see more winning solar eclipse photography and get ready to enter Kolari Vision's next photo competition. Its fourth biannual Infrared Photo Contest is now open for submissions.

Here are the winning images of Kolari Vision's Solar Eclipse Photography Contest.

“Dark Day” by Keith Double. Second Place.

“Moment Of Totality” by Justin Castel. Third Place.

“Total Eclipse Chrono” by Joe Luther. Honorable Mention.

“Eclipse IRChrome” by Jonathan Sullivan. Honorable Mention.

“The Diamond Rings” by Noah Cote / Noah Cote Photography. Honorable Mention.

“Phoenix” by Thomas Streiff. Honorable Mention.

“Solar Glow” by Travis Brooks. Honorable Mention.

“2024: An Eclipse Odyssey” by Mike Denison. Honorable Mention.

Kolari Vision: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Kolari Vision.

Related Articles:

Epic Photos of Twin Planes Flying Through the Solar Eclipse

Stunning Winners From the First Annual Infrared Photography Contest

Perfectly Timed Photo Captures a Person “Holding” a Total Solar Eclipse

The Most Spectacular Photos and Videos of the 2024 Great North American Eclipse

READ: Solar Eclipse Photo Contest Winners Celebrate North America’s Recent Total Eclipse

“Untitled” by Eric T’Kindt. Overall Winner and Gold, Gymnastics.

A dynamic image of Japanese gymnast Daiki Hashimoto has won the 2024 World Sports Photography Awards. The image, shot by Belgian photographer Eric T'Kindt, shows Hashimoto twisting in the air during his horizontal bar routine at the 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. The routine netted Hashimoto a gold, so it's only fitting that the image also garnered T'Kindt the top prize.

The Belgian photographer's image beat out more than 9,000 that were submitted to the photo contest by more than 1,400 professional sports photographers from over 80 countries. It also topped the Gymnastics category, one of 24 in the competition. From aquatics and equestrian to baseball and basketball, a full range of sports are represented in what is the only global award for sports photography.

“I am once again astounded by the exceptional talent showcased in this year’s entries,” says Sophie Collins, chief marketing officer at MPB. MPB, the world’s largest platform to buy, sell, and trade used photography and videography equipment, is the contest's primary sponsor. 

“Photography has the unique ability to capture the raw emotions and intense moments of sports, telling stories that resonate deeply with viewers long after the moment has passed,” she continues.

Scroll down to see some of our favorite winners across the 24 categories, then hop over to the official gallery to view all the winners and finalists.

Here are the winners of the 2024 World Sports Photography Awards.

“Duck Dive” by Ryan Pierse. Overall, Third Place and Gold, Aquatics.

“A new superhero? The perfect match between a spotlight and a head” by Issac Julián Morillas Sánchez. Overall Runner-up and Gold, Other.

“Untitled” by Benjamin Lau. Gold, Racquet Sports.

“Rainbow Hair” by Steph Chambers. Gold, Basketball.

“Dobbsanity” by Kevin Sabitus. Gold, American Football.

“50th Anniversary Score” by Bruce Bennett. Gold, Ice Hockey.

“Tennis” by Marc Aspland. Gold, Tennis.

Over 9,000 images by more than 1,400 professional sports photographers were entered into the contest.

“The Dynamic Duo” by Andrew Moss. Gold, Boxing.

“Luciano Benavides” by Pavol Tomaskin. Gold, Motor Sports.

“Mikaelas World – Ski Weltcup” by Alexander Hassenstein. Gold, Winter Sports.

“The Sprint” by Tetsu Lee. Gold, Athletics.

“Untitled” by James Startt. Gold, Cycling.

“Maul” by Morgan Treacy. Gold, Rugby.

“World Sports Photography Awards tell compelling stories of the emotion, passion, athleticism, and focus that are at the heart of sport.”

“Submerged” by Sean M. Haffrey. Gold, Swimming & Diving.

“Cristiano Ronaldo Odyssey” by Marcelo Guelber Goes. Gold, Football (Soccer).

“Dunk” by Lindsey Wasson. Gold, Baseball

“Upside down – Judo Paris Grand Slam 2023” by Victor Joly. Gold, Martial Arts.

“Glorious Mud” by David Davies. Gold, Equestrian.

“Reflection” by Volodya Voronon. Gold, Urban & Extreme.

World Sports Photography Awards: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to publish photos by the World Sports Photography Awards.

Related Articles:

Incredible Action Sports Photography

24 Dynamic Winners of the World Sports Photography Awards

Naomi Osaka Rescuing a Butterfly Wins World Sports Photography Awards

Former Baseball Star Ken Griffey Jr. Becomes Sports Photographer, Snaps Amazing Action Shots

READ: High-Flying Gymnast Wins the 2024 World Sports Photography Awards

A fascinating video by Adrian Kozakiewicz of Insecthaus shows how all types of creepy crawlies can hatch from tiny eggs. In the short clip, we see a small egg inKozakiewicz’s hand and then, a split second later, the large adult version of what emerges. Whether you like bugs or not, the video is a cool look at the reproduction of these small animals.

Most of what we see are insects—various beetles, butterflies, a Praying mantis, and more. However, there is an occasional curveball, like a crab and what looks to be an enormous snail. The variety certainly keeps you on your toes, as the size of the egg isn't always indicative of how large the final result will be.

While as mammals, our reproduction works quite differently, much of the rest of the animal kingdom lays eggs. From fish and birds to reptiles and insects, eggs are the main reproductive vehicle. Often laid in clusters, eggs allow these animals to produce live offspring without having to worry about carrying them internally. For many animals, this keeps their offspring safe from predators and environmental dangers.

So get ready for an adventure and press play on the video to see all of the invertebrates that hatch from these eggs.

Insecthaus: YouTube | Instagram | TikTok
h/t: [Reddit]

Related Articles:

15 Fascinating Animal X-Rays From the Oregon Zoo

Extremely Detailed Macro Portraits of Colorfully Exotic Insects

12 Incredible X-Rays Reveal How Different Pregnant Animals Look

Watch a Cast of Insects Take Flight in This Extreme Slow-Motion Video Filmed at 3,200 FPS

READ: Before-and-After Shots of Tiny Eggs and the Invertebrates That Hatch From Them

Photo: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

Marge Simpson has been a pop culture icon since she first appeared on television screens in 1987. But from the looks of things, she might be older than you think. In 2023, archeologists in Egypt revealed several treasures that they'd unearthed, including a 3,000-year-old coffin. When experts opened the casket at a press conference, eagle-eyed viewers noticed a painting of a woman inside the coffin's cover that looked all too familiar.

With a tall blue coif, yellow skin, and a light green dress, the woman looked shockingly like The Simpsons' matriarch. In reality, she's actually the daughter of a high priest in El-Ashmunein, and her name is Tadi Ist. The sarcophagus was discovered in an ancient cemetery in Minya, an Egyptian city on the western bank of the Nile. The cemetery was filled with the tombs of high-ranking officials and priests, and the archeologists were able to excavate numerous treasures.

The cemetery dates back to the 20th Dynasty, the last to rule during Egypt's New Kingdom Period. Stretching from 1189 BCE to 1077 BCE, it was a period when the pharaohs lost enormous power to high priests. The Marge Simpson sarcophagus, while drawing much amusement from commenters on Reddit, is actually quite important.

The portrait of the high priestess is surrounded by 12 depictions of her in different positions. These are representations of the 12 hours, with officials from the Supreme Council of Antiquities stating, “It is a rare and important scene ever. Every scene of the hour has its shape.”

While the Marge Simpson sarcophagus is just one of over 25,000 artifacts found at the site, its discovery has been a fun way to merge popular culture and archeology.

In 2023, archeologists in Egypt revealed a sarcophagus with a painting that looks eerily familiar.

Photo: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

With a tall blue coif, yellow skin, and a light green dress, the woman looked shockingly like Marge Simpson.

Redditors had a field day making funny comments about the connections between ancient Egypt and The Simpsons.

Comment
byu/Ainsley-Sorsby from discussion
infunny

Comment
byu/Ainsley-Sorsby from discussion
infunny

Comment
byu/Ainsley-Sorsby from discussion
infunny

h/t: [Upworthy]

Related Articles:

View the Reconstructed Face of a 30,000-Year-Old Egyptian Man

Ancient Egyptian Coffins Sealed 2,600 Years Ago Are Opened for First Time in History

3,200-Year-Old Egyptian Tablet Shows They Took Attendance at Work and Recorded Absences

4,500-Year-Old Egyptian Wood Statue With Rock Crystal Eyes Boasts Incredible Craftsmanship

READ: 3,000-Year-Old Egyptian Coffin Includes Drawing That Looks Just Like Marge Simpson

Brazilian Amazon (Photo: gustavofrazao/Depositphotos)

In a victory for the planet, deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon has continued to plummet. According to data from Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research, INPE, deforestation reached a six-year low in May 2024. This promising trend began in 2023 after deforestation peaked in 2022.

The INPE shared that 193 square miles of rainforest were cleared in May, bringing 2024's total deforested area down 54% over the same period last year. The yearly total will be capped on July 31, which marks the peak of Brazil's dry season and is the date used by the government to calculate annual deforestation.

The sharp decline in deforestation coincides with the term of Brazil's current president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was sworn into office in January 2023. A key talking point of President Lula's campaign was the environment. In fact, he pledged to stop illegal logging and made a target of zero deforestation by 2030.

The Cerrado in Brazil (Photo: Angeladepaula via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

While great strides have been made in preserving the rainforest, there is concern for the adjacent region, the Cerrado. This vast tropical savanna has seen an increase in environmental destruction at the same time that the Brazilian Amazon has seen increased protection measures. This leads many to believe that illegal loggers have simply taken their activities elsewhere.

The Cerrado, which is home to 800 species of trees and a wealth of animals, is the second-largest biome in South America and the most biodiverse savanna in the world. It is also a major center of agriculture, with an enormous amount of livestock and grain production. Unfortunately, it is not constitutionally part of the country's National Heritage, and only 1.5% of its area falls under environmental protection. This makes it particularly vulnerable for those looking to exploit the environment without the government's watchful eye.

So, while we continue to have good news about the Brazilian Amazon, Brazil will need to move swiftly to also keep all of its ecosystems safe.

h/t: [Mongabay]

Related Articles:

Lasers Uncover 2,500-Year–Old Cities Underneath the Amazon Rainforest

Ownership of World’s Oldest Rainforest Is Returned to Its Aboriginal Inhabitants

Brazil Pledges $204 Million To Restore Damaged Woodland in the Amazon Rainforest

Canadian Conservation Group Buys Out Hunting Rights for B.C. Rainforest To Protect Indigenous Wildlife

READ: Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon Reaches a Six-Year Low

Photo: Csabai-29

Since it first entered Jupiter's orbit in 2016, NASA's JunoCam has given the world an unparalleled look at the planet. This visible-light camera/telescope sits in the Juno space probe and sends data back to Earth each time it completes a flyby of the gas giant. Thanks to citizen scientists who process the raw data that NASA uploads, we can see a crisp, clear view of Jupiter in all its glory.

While the JunoCam was only supposed to be operational for 20 months, as this was the original length of the Juno mission, it's still providing us a view of the planet and will continue to do so as long as the probe remains operational.

The photos it provides, particularly of Jupiter's cloud formations and swirling storm systems, are particularly impressive. It's important to remember that the colors we see here are all added in post-production. The JunoCam itself has three color filters—red, blue, and green. As it faces the planet, it snaps images to produce photo strips that are then stitched together to create a complete image.

The people who take the time to process this data enhance the final image so the colors appear as they would to the human eye, even if the raw data looks different.

Of course, taking photos of Jupiter isn't the only thing on Juno's mind. In fact, the imagery is a secondary goal to help with public outreach. In reality, the main aim of the mission is to learn more about Jupiter's composition and how it was formed.

Still, given the stunning visual results, we can't help but be grateful that NASA thought to incorporate a camera to give us a detailed view of the giant planet. Scroll down to see some of our favorite JunoCam photos and see NASA's JunoCam website to discover the newest featured images created by citizen scientists.

Here are some spectacular images of Jupiter taken by NASA's JunoCam.

Photo: Enhanced image by Betsy Asher Hall and Gervasio Robles based on images provided courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS, processing by Prateek Sarpal, © CC NC SA

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Gerald Eichstad/Sean Doran © CC NC SA

Photo: Enhanced image by Kevin M. Gill (CC-BY) based on images provided courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS, Processing by Brian Swift CC BY

Photo: NASA / JPL-Caltech / SwRI / MSSS / Björn Jónsson © CC NC SA

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Gerald Eichstadt/Sean Doran © CC NC SA

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Gerald Eichstadt/Sean Doran © CC NC SA

Photo: NASA / SwRI / MSSS / Tanya Oleksuik © CC NC SA

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS, processing by David Marriott

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS, processing by Gerald Eichstädt/Seán Doran, © BY NC ND

Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS/Georgios_NK

Related Articles:

Green Bolt of Lightning Captured on Jupiter by NASA’s JunoCam

James Webb Space Telescope Captures Spectacular Auroras on Jupiter

Incredible Footage Captures the Moment a Comet Collides With Jupiter

NASA’s JunoCam Shares Stunning Rendering of Jupiter’s “Frosting-Like” Clouds

READ: Jupiter’s Most Stunning Images Captured by NASA’s JunoCam in Sharp Detail

Photo: Thomas J. O'Halloran, U.S. News & World Reports. Light restoration by Adam Cuerden, Public domain

Throughout history, women have been working hard to ensure that the female voice is heard. Whether that means being involved in politics, working as a social activist, becoming the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, or breaking barriers in athletics, women have gone the extra mile to gain equality and advocate for a better world.

Regardless of age, race, or nationality, powerful women like Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Jane Goodall provide inspiration to millions of little girls and women. By working with purpose, confidence, and intuition, they demonstrate that having strength and embodying fearlessness doesn't have to mean sacrificing your vulnerability. And all of these women show that failure shouldn't be an obstacle to meeting your goals.

So in honor of all the incredible women who have blazed a trail forward—both in the past and present—we've put together a list of 50 inspirational quotes. The words of these wise women prove that through action, anything is possible. Just as they took charge of their own lives, their logic will make you inspired to transform your own.

So get ready to get motivated and start moving toward your dreams.

Enjoy 50 inspiring quotes from powerful female leaders throughout history to get you motivated.

Photo: NASA; restored by Adam Cuerden via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Being a Woman

“Girls are capable of doing everything men are capable of doing. Sometimes they have more imagination than men.” – Katherine Johnson, mathematician and one of the first African-American women to work as a NASA scientist

“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.” – Serena Williams, professional tennis player who has won more Grand Slam singles titles than any man or woman in the Open Era

“We need to understand that there is no formula for how women should lead their lives. That is why we must respect the choices that each woman makes for herself and her family. Every woman deserves the chance to realize her God-given potential.” – Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and the first woman nominated for U.S. president by a major political party

“Women should do for themselves what men have already done—occasionally what men have not done—thereby establishing themselves as persons, and perhaps encouraging other women toward greater independence of thought and action.” – Amelia Earhart, first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean

“My mother told me to be a lady. And for her, that meant be your own person, be independent.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg, second female justice appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court

Photo: Stock Photos from JStone/Shutterstock

Discrimination

“Tremendous amounts of talent are being lost to our society just because that talent wears a skirt.” – Shirley Chisholm, first Black woman elected to U.S. Congress

“A girl should not expect special privileges because of her sex but neither should she adjust to prejudice and discrimination.” – Betty Friedan, writer and activist credited with sparking the 20th-century wave of feminism

“I raise up my voice—not so I can shout but so that those without a voice can be heard… We cannot succeed when half of us are held back.” – Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate

Photo: Guillermo Kahlo via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Facing Hardship

“At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.” – Frida Kahlo, 20th-century Mexican painter 

“I really think a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.” – Serena Williams

“Always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what you believe in. And, when you stumble, keep faith. And, when you're knocked down, get right back up and never listen to anyone who says you can't or shouldn't go on.” – Hillary Clinton

“Have no fear of perfection; you'll never reach it.” – Marie Curie, chemist who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.

“Think like a queen. A queen if not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.” – Oprah Winfrey, media mogul and North America's first black multi-billionaire

Photo: Anil496 (CC BY-SA)

Staying Positive

“I’ve had to learn to fight all my life – got to learn to keep smiling. If you smile things will work out.” – Serena Williams

“Nothing is worth more than laughter. It is strength to laugh and to abandon oneself, to be light.” – Frida Kahlo

“You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist.” – Indira Gandhi, first female Prime Minister of India

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” – Rosa Parks, American civil rights activist

“Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility. Make decisions based on what should happen, not what shouldn’t.” – Michelle Obama, former U.S. First Lady

Photo: Stock Photos from JStone/Shutterstock

Being Self-Confident

“I don't have a feeling of inferiority. Never had. I'm as good as anybody, but no better.” – Katherine Johnson

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt, former U.S. First Lady and U.S. Delegate to the United Nations General Assembly

“If you're always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” – Maya Angelou, Pulitzer-prize nominated poet

“Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained.” – Marie Curie

“I was a person with dignity and self-respect, and I should not set my sights lower than anybody else just because I was Black.” – Rosa Parks

“There's power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.” – Michelle Obama

Photo: Stock Photos from Rob Crandall/Shutterstock

Unity

“Pursuing peace means rising above one's own wants, needs, and emotions.” – Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister of Pakistan

“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” – Audre Lorde, former writer, poet, and activist best known for her works on intersectional feminism

“We’re all water from different rivers, that’s why it’s so easy to meet; we’re all water in this vast, vast ocean, someday we’ll evaporate together.” – Yoko Ono, performance artist and peace activist

“Tolerance and compassion are active, not passive states, born of the capacity to listen, to observe and to respect others.” – Indira Gandhi

“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Enacting Change

“Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don't believe is right.” – Jane Goodall, world's foremost expert on chimpanzees and environmental activist

“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.” – Shirley Chisholm

“Social change is brought about by those who dare and act, who can think unconventionally and who can court unpopularity.” – Indira Gandhi

“We are here, not because we are law-breakers; we are here in our efforts to become law-makers.” – Emmeline Pankhurst, leader of the UK suffragette movement

“Do what you feel in your heart to be right—for you’ll be criticized anyway.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

“If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou

“Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg

“We cannot solve a crisis without treating it as a crisis. […] And if solutions within the system are so impossible to find, then maybe we should change the system itself?” – Greta Thunberg, climate change activist

Photo: Underwood & Underwood (active 1880 – c. 1950)[1] (Public domain)

Pursuing Your Goals

“Technique and ability alone do not get you to the top; it is the willpower that is most important.” – Junko Tabei, first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest

“Do not stop thinking of life as an adventure. You have no security unless you can live bravely, excitingly, imaginatively; unless you can choose a challenge instead of competence.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

“I’ve learned that making a ‘living’ is not the same as ‘making a life.’” – Maya Angelou

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act. The rest is merely tenacity.” – Amelia Earhart

“Success is only meaningful and enjoyable if it feels like your own.” – Michelle Obama

“Passion is the log that keeps the fire of purpose blazing.” – Oprah Winfrey

“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life—and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.” – Georgia O'Keeffe, painter often recognized as the “Mother of American modernism”

Photo: Stock Photos from Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock

Aging

“Aging is not ‘lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

“Some people are old at 18 and some are young at 90. Time is a concept that humans created.” – Yoko Ono

The Future

“The next decade cannot be a decade of confrontation and contention. It cannot be East vs. West. It cannot be men vs. women. It cannot be Islam vs. Christianity. That is what the enemies of dialogue want.” – Benazir Bhutto

“The greatest danger to our future is apathy.” – Jane Goodall

“Every moment wasted looking back, keeps us from moving forward…In this world and the world of tomorrow, we must go forward together or not at all.” – Hillary Clinton

“Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow’s reality.” – Malala Yousafzai

This article has been edited and updated.

Related Articles:

14 Famous Female Painters Every Art Lover Should Know

13 Trailblazing Female Artists to Celebrate on Women’s Equality Day

15+ Feminist Fashions to Empower the Strong Women in Your Life

Inspirational Posters of Women Innovators Are Available to Download For Free in 8 Languages

READ: 50 Inspirational Quotes by Powerful Women in History

Photo: Esteban Moctezuma Barragán

In the newest case of a thrift store find actually being an important artifact, a woman in Washington, D.C., has just returned a genuine Mayan vase she purchased for $3.99. About five years ago, Anna Lee Dozier was perusing the 2A Thrift Store in Clinton, Maryland, when the vase caught her eye.

Left on a clearance shelf near the register, the vase intrigued Dozier, who has worked with Mexican Indigenous communities in her role as a human rights advocate with Christian Solidarity Worldwide. So, she scooped it up, paid the nominal price, and brought it home.

“I could see that it had some kind of link to Mexico, in terms of what it looked like, and since it's a country that I work on and it's really important to me, I thought it would be just a nice little thing to take home and put on the shelf and to remind me of Mexico,” she told NPR.

Dozier could see that the vase was old, but she assumed that it was a replica and didn't think much of it until a recent visit to Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology. While looking at an exhibition of Mayan vases there, she realized just how similar they were to the pottery she had at home.

To quell her doubts, she asked museum staff what she'd need to do to get her own vase authenticated. They referred her to the Mexican embassy, who asked her to send in images of the thrift store find. Upon viewing the material she provided, Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History contacted her to confirm that the vase was real and that they wanted it back.

Happy to comply, Dozier worked with authorities to ensure that the vase, which dates to between 200 CE and 800 CE, made its way home. Now, after a ceremony at Washington D.C.'s Cultural Institute of Mexico, the vase is on its way to the Museum of Anthropology, where it will be studied before being sent to one of the country's smaller museums.

Un valioso testigo de nuestra historia maya regresa a su hogar #México.

Gracias a la generosidad de Anne Lee Dozier, ciudadana estadounidense, recuperamos una vasija clásica, datada entre el 200 y 800 d.C. Esta joya histórica será reintegrada al acervo del @INAHmx para… pic.twitter.com/ySsF1vCU5k

— Esteban Moctezuma Barragán (@emoctezumab) June 18, 2024

Dozier was thrilled to play a role in getting the vase back to its homeland. “I would like it to go back to its rightful place and to where it belongs,” she told a local news outlet. “I'd also like it out of my home because I have three little boys and now I'm petrified, well it's gone now, but I was petrified that at any moment I could be the one after 2,000 years to finally wreck it.”

Interestingly, this thrift store find was just one of many artifacts that the Cultural Institute was shipping back to Mexico. Most of them were dropped off anonymously. The organization ships artifacts back monthly, with about 90% of them being deemed authentic once they arrive.

Mexican Ambassador Estaban Moctezuma Barragan, who attended the ceremony, applauded Dozier's decision to step forward and send the vase back rather than attempt to sell it for a high value.

“When you have strong roots, and you know them, and you honor them,” he shared. “She recognized that a whole country, a whole culture, cares about it, and we are deeply in gratitude with her.”

For Dozier, there's no doubt in her mind that she did the right thing.

“Giving it back feels so much better than it would if I put it on eBay and I got a bunch of money,” she said. “It's really important to recognize that some of these things, especially with such historical and cultural value to an entire country and people—you can't really put a number on that.”

A woman named Anna Lee Dozier bought a vase at a thrift store for $3.99, but she found out it's actually nearly 2,000 years old and worth a lot more.

h/t: [NPR]

Related Articles:

TikToker’s $50 Facebook Marketplace Find Sells for $85,000 at Sotheby’s

Thrift Store Painting Bought for $4 Turns Out to Be an N.C. Wyeth Painting Worth $250K

Magnificent 18th-Century Chinese Vase Accidentally Discovered in Someone’s UK Kitchen

Antique Map Acquired at Estate Sale Turns Out to Be an Extremely Rare 14th-Century Portolan Chart

READ: Woman’s $4 Thrift Store Find Turns Out To Be a Nearly 2,000-Year-Old Mayan Vase