Even after centuries of exploration and scientific advancement, Earth continues to surprise us in ways that feel almost unbelievable. From its immense age of roughly 4.5 billion years to its constantly shifting surface, the planet is far more dynamic than it appears on the surface.

Earth Day is April 22nd this year, so in the spirit of celebrating here are 9 things scientists “discovered” about Earth and how it works during the past year: 

1. Earth has another moon

2. The deepest known ecosystem was found under the sea

3. Gold is leaking from Earth’s core

4. Thawing Arctic permafrost is increasing global warming

5. Beavers are environmental heroes

6. Underground earthquakes were discovered

7. Wolves saved aspen trees

8. Microlightning may have created life on Earth

9. Renewable energy can power the planet

Read the full article to learn more about each discovery.