The contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals to the scientific world are both profound and inspiring. Gayety covers the biggest news in science affecting gay people.
Every year on April 22, Earth Day reminds us of the urgent need to protect our planet—and this year, the message feels more powerful than ever. With the climate crisis growing and sustainability taking center stage, today isn’t just about planting trees (though that’s great too); it’s about uplifting those leading the charge toward environmental justice, especially in underrepresented communities.
And let’s be honest—Mother Nature knows no binaries.
From legendary activists to eco-minded drag queens and innovative grassroots organizations, LGBTQ+ individuals have long been at the forefront of climate advocacy. This Earth Day, we’re highlighting the change-makers who are blending pride with purpose in their fight for a sustainable future.
LGBTQ+ Environmental Trailblazers
Rachel Carson
An American marine biologist, writer, and conservationist, Carson’s groundbreaking 1962 book Silent Spring helped launch the global environmental movement. Her work led to the banning of DDT and inspired the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. Though she kept her personal life private, Carson’s lasting impact makes her an icon for both environmental and LGBTQ+ history.
Photo: Smithsonian Institution Archives
Harvey Milk
As the first openly gay man elected to public office in California, Milk was known for championing gay rights. But he also advocated for equality on multiple fronts, speaking out on environmental and social justice issues. His legacy lives on in San Francisco and far beyond.
Photo: California Museum
Pattie Gonia
Part drag queen, part environmentalist, and all fabulous—Pattie Gonia is redefining what climate activism looks like. Known for hiking in heels and donning nature-inspired drag, Pattie uses her platform to make climate activism inclusive, accessible, and joyful for the queer community.
As a legal practice manager at EarthJustice, Weber isn’t just fighting climate change—she’s making sure the movement itself is inclusive. A queer woman of color, she also founded an LGBTQ+ employee group at EarthJustice to uplift other queer environmentalists within the organization.
Photo: The Green Program
Organizations Making an Impact
OUT for Sustainability
Created by and for LGBTQ+ communities, OUT for Sustainability promotes climate resilience and environmental justice through service projects, summits, and events across the U.S.
This international group challenges members to cut their carbon footprints in half by 2030. Their six-step pledge blends individual action with collective advocacy and was even featured at the United Nations Climate Action Summit.
Out in Climate
Founded in 2022, Out in Climate connects over 1,000 queer climate professionals across industries, helping diversify the climate solutions space and ensure LGBTQ+ voices are heard where decisions are made.
Focused on making the outdoors more accessible to LGBTQ+ folks, this nonprofit leads inclusive backpacking trips, wilderness workshops, and community hikes. Because everyone deserves to enjoy nature—no gatekeeping allowed.
Celebrating Pride and Planet Earth
This Earth Day, we celebrate those who are using their voices, platforms, and passions to protect the environment while uplifting LGBTQ+ communities. Whether you’re joining a local clean-up, rethinking your carbon footprint, or supporting queer-led climate initiatives, your actions matter.
Let’s honor these trailblazers and organizations—and keep fighting for a future that’s inclusive, sustainable, and fabulous.
The space flight may have lasted just 10 minutes, but the memes? Infinite.
While Katy Perry and Gayle King’s suborbital journey with Blue Origin sparked headlines and social chatter, it was comedian and queer icon Meg Stalter who truly launched the internet into orbit. Her Instagram spoofs poking fun at the brief space trip quickly became the highlight of the post-flight buzz, proving once again that no one parodies pop culture quite like Stalter.
A Starry Flight Becomes a Meme Magnet
Blue Origin’s all-female space crew included singer Katy Perry, CBS Mornings host Gayle King, Nobel Peace Prize nominee Amanda Nguyen, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, film producer Kerianne Flynn, and Lauren Sánchez—Bezos’ fiancée and Blue Origin executive, who also piloted the mission.
The flight, which lasted a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it ten minutes, crossed just past the Kármán line—the internationally recognized edge of space—before gently returning to Earth in a capsule that landed in the West Texas desert. While Blue Origin positioned the mission as a historic moment for women in space, the internet had other ideas.
Enter Meg Stalter: Meme Queen of the Galaxy
Never one to miss a moment, Meg Stalter took to Instagram shortly after the flight to share a spoof that had fans howling. In one video, she impersonated Katy Perry singing a hilariously offbeat rendition of Vanessa Carlton’s A Thousand Miles—with giggles, awkward pauses, and signature Stalter-style quirky chaos.
“If I could fly… to Saturn or Mars, Do you think… I could touch the sky?” she crooned, surrounded by sparkly filters and dramatic lighting. The video was instantly reposted across social platforms, solidifying Stalter’s bit as the unofficial encore of the space launch.
In another clip, she dialed up the absurdity with a mock livestream as “Katy Perry” reporting back from her brief cosmic adventure. Cue a hilariously off-key version of What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong—followed by an unhinged interpretive dance to Perry’s own song, WOMAN’S WORLD.
Naturally, fans declared her the “true star of the launch.”
Katy, Gayle, and the Ground-Kiss Heard ’Round the World
While Stalter dominated the comedy circuit, the flight still delivered a few meme-worthy moments of its own. After the capsule’s landing, both Katy Perry and Gayle King dramatically dropped to kiss the ground—a moment quickly turned into a meme for everything from “Monday mornings” to “surviving Mercury retrograde.”
Footage of Gayle King hesitantly approaching the rocket before takeoff also went viral, with viewers calling her energy “deeply relatable.”
Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos himself reportedly took a bit of a tumble while hurrying to greet the crew post-landing. Though it appears the astronauts missed it, the internet most certainly didn’t.
Critics Raise Eyebrows, but the Internet Delivers
Despite the lighthearted tone, the flight wasn’t without criticism. Some questioned the value of such brief missions, especially during a time of global crises. Others debated whether a 10-minute suborbital hop even qualifies as “space travel.”
But for many, that conversation took a back seat to the entertainment value—led by Stalter’s pitch-perfect parody. It’s clear: space tourism may be serious business for Jeff Bezos, but for the rest of us, it’s meme fuel.
And if Blue Origin keeps sending celebrities into the cosmos, we can only hope Meg Stalter keeps spoofing them back to Earth.
The Mammoth Comeback: A Journey into De-Extinction
Imagine a world where the woolly mammoth roams the Earth again. Sounds like a scene from a sci-fi movie, right? But this is no fiction. Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company, is working to make this a reality by 2028. This isn’t just about bringing back an extinct species; it’s about exploring the possibilities of de-extinction. Let’s dive into this fascinating journey and see how this project is unfolding.
Colossal Biosciences: Pioneers of De-Extinction
Colossal Biosciences, based in Texas, is leading the way in de-extinction. This innovative start-up is making waves with its bold vision to restore lost species. But who are the people behind this mission, and what drives them to take on such a big task?
The Visionaries Behind the Mission
The people behind Colossal Biosciences are not just scientists; they are visionaries who see the potential of de-extinction in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change. They are driven by a passion for conservation and a desire to make a positive impact on the planet. They believe that by reviving extinct species, they can help restore ecosystems and bring balance back to nature.
Celebrity Influence: Chris Hemsworth and Paris Hilton’s Role
In a world where celebrity influence can make or break a project, Colossal Biosciences has some star power on its side. Celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and Paris Hilton are supporting the cause, bringing attention and funding to the project. Their involvement highlights the intersection of science, technology, and celebrity influence in modern conservation efforts. With their backing, Colossal Biosciences is gaining the visibility and resources needed to push forward with their plans.
The Science of De-Extinction: How It Works
At the heart of this project is cutting-edge genetic engineering technology, which is being used to recreate the woolly mammoth. But how exactly does this process work, and what makes it possible?
CRISPR and Genetic Engineering
CRISPR, a revolutionary gene-editing tool, is being used to splice woolly mammoth DNA into the genome of Asian elephants. This process involves identifying and editing specific genes that give the woolly mammoth its unique traits, such as its thick fur and ability to withstand cold temperatures. By combining these genes with those of the Asian elephant, scientists aim to create a hybrid species that can thrive in the Arctic tundra, much like its ancient ancestor.
From Asian Elephants to Woolly Mammoths
The process of creating a woolly mammoth involves more than just gene editing. It requires a deep understanding of the biology and ecology of both the woolly mammoth and the Asian elephant. Scientists must carefully select and edit the genes that will give the hybrid species the traits it needs to survive in its new environment. This includes not only physical traits like fur and fat but also behavioral traits that will help it adapt to life in the wild.
Beyond the Mammoth: Other Extinct Species in the Pipeline
Colossal Biosciences is not stopping at the woolly mammoth. The company has plans to revive other extinct species, including the dodo and the Tasmanian tiger. But what does this mean for the future of conservation, and how will these efforts impact the world?
The Dodo and Tasmanian Tiger: Next on the List
These iconic species are next in line for de-extinction, with the potential to restore lost biodiversity and ecological balance. The dodo, once native to the island of Mauritius, was driven to extinction by human activity in the 17th century. The Tasmanian tiger, also known as the thylacine, was a carnivorous marsupial native to Tasmania, Australia, and New Guinea. It was declared extinct in the 20th century due to hunting and habitat loss.
Reviving these species could have significant ecological benefits, but it also raises important questions about the impact on current ecosystems. How will these species fit into the modern world, and what role will they play in their respective environments?
The Ecological Impact of Reviving Extinct Species
Reviving extinct species could have significant ecological benefits, but it also raises important questions about the impact on current ecosystems. How will these species fit into the modern world, and what role will they play in their respective environments?
The Ethical and Environmental Debate
The de-extinction project is not without controversy. It has sparked a debate about the ethical and environmental implications of bringing back extinct species. While some see it as a way to right the wrongs of the past, others worry about the potential consequences.
The Pros and Cons of De-Extinction
While de-extinction offers exciting possibilities for conservation, it also poses challenges and risks that need to be carefully considered. On the one hand, reviving extinct species could help restore biodiversity and ecosystems that have been disrupted by human activity. On the other hand, it could lead to unforeseen consequences, such as the introduction of new diseases or competition with existing species.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Restoration
Proponents of de-extinction argue that it could help restore biodiversity and ecosystems that have been disrupted by human activity. By bringing back species that once played a crucial role in their environments, scientists hope to restore balance and promote the health of ecosystems. This could have far-reaching benefits for both wildlife and humans, as healthy ecosystems provide essential services like clean air and water, pollination, and climate regulation.
Ethical Considerations and Public Opinion
The ethical implications of de-extinction are complex, and public opinion is divided on whether it is a responsible or viable solution. Some argue that we have a moral obligation to bring back species that we have driven to extinction, while others believe that we should focus on conserving the species that are still with us. There are also concerns about the welfare of the animals involved in the de-extinction process, as well as the potential for commercial exploitation.
The Future of De-Extinction: What Lies Ahead
As Colossal Biosciences continues its work, the future of de-extinction looks promising but uncertain. What challenges and opportunities lie ahead, and how will this groundbreaking field evolve in the coming years?
Technological Advancements and Challenges
Advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology will play a crucial role in the success of de-extinction efforts. As technology continues to evolve, scientists will have access to new tools and techniques that could make the process more efficient and effective. However, there are also significant challenges to overcome, such as the need for extensive research and development, as well as the ethical and regulatory hurdles that must be addressed.
The Role of Public and Private Funding
Funding from both public and private sectors will be essential to support the research and development needed for de-extinction. While celebrity backing has brought attention and resources to the project, sustained funding will be necessary to ensure its success. This will require collaboration between governments, non-profit organizations, and private companies, as well as public support and engagement.
The Global Impact on Conservation Efforts
The success of de-extinction could have far-reaching implications for global conservation efforts, offering new tools and strategies for preserving biodiversity. By demonstrating the potential of genetic engineering and biotechnology, de-extinction could inspire new approaches to conservation and encourage greater investment in the protection of endangered species. However, it will also be important to ensure that these efforts are guided by ethical considerations and a commitment to the well-being of both wildlife and ecosystems.
Researchers have joyfully reported a delightful sighting of two same-sex marine giants sharing a loving moment together off the coast of Hawaii!
Dive into Humpback Whales’ Social Seas
Recently, something incredible happened off the coast of Hawaii. For the first time, photographers captured two humpback whales having intercourse. This eye-opening scene makes scientists rethink everything they know about these ocean giants. But here’s the kicker – the whales were both males!
When Lyle Krannichfeld and Brandi Romano captured this unique male-male “bonding,” they didn’t just get stunning photos—they sparked a whole new wave of questions about whale behavior.
Of course, this isn’t the first instance where gay mammals have been observed in their natural habitats.
Traditionally, spotting whale romance in the wild is tough, especially among males. Their hidden genitalia help them swim smoothly, but it also makes their mating habits mysterious. This recent Hawaiian encounter, where one male gently held the other, opens a whole new chapter in understanding whale love and friendship.
“This discovery challenges our preconceived notions about humpback whale behavior,” said Ph.D. student Stephanie Stack from the Pacific Whale Foundation. “While we have long recognized the complex social structures of these incredible creatures, witnessing the copulation of two male whales for the first time is a unique and remarkable event.”
Whales in the Wild: A Broader Perspective
It’s more than just humpback whales getting attention. Other sea mammals like dolphins and killer whales show us that same-sex behaviors might be more about making friends and building bonds than we thought. Each discovery tells us more about the complex and fascinating world beneath the waves.
It also offers a peek into how humpback whales might use these interactions for social reasons, like strengthening alliances or showing who’s boss. It’s a reminder that there’s still so much to learn about the deep blue sea and its inhabitants.
The military branch, US Coast Guard, announced on Wednesday that they have retrieved what are believed to be human remains from the ocean floor, located within the debris field of the Titan submersible. A comprehensive analysis will be conducted on these recovered materials.
Screengrab / CBS Boston
The Tragedy of the Titan Submersible
In light of the recent tragedy that unfolded in the depths of the North Atlantic, where the submersible Titan imploded during a mission to the Titanic wreckage site, questions have arisen about the fate of the bodies of the five men who were tragically lost.
Ocean’s Extreme Environment: A Grave Like No Other
The bodies of the Titan crew, submerged at the chilling depth of 12,500 feet underwater, are subjected to an incredibly unforgiving environment. Recognizing the unique conditions of this final resting place – extreme cold, intense pressure, and complete darkness – provides context to their fate.
The Titan Implosion: Immediate Aftermath
In the case of the Titan disaster, after the implosion of the submersible, the bodies of the crew were likely subjected to instantaneous trauma due to the sudden and dramatic pressure change. The subsequent steps in their journey involve settling into the deep-sea environment.
Deep-sea Decomposition: A Slow Process
Over time, the bodies will decompose in a process distinctly different from terrestrial decomposition. Factors like the low temperatures, high pressure, and absence of sunlight play pivotal roles in this deep-sea decomposition process.
Role of Scavengers: Nature’s Undertakers
Ocean scavengers are likely to contribute significantly to this process. The action of creatures like hagfish, amphipods, and rat-tail fish, combined with the slow decomposition, will eventually leave behind skeletal remains.
The Final Stage: Bones and Sediment
In the final stages, the bones will likely get buried in the seafloor sediment, marking the end of a solemn process that underscores the immense power of the ocean and the fragility of human life in such extreme conditions.
Remembering the Titan Crew
The fate of their bodies is a stark reminder of the finality of this loss. However, it is essential to remember the indomitable spirit of exploration these men embodied and the valuable contributions they made to deep-sea exploration.
FAQ: What Happens to the Bodies of the Titan Crew?
Did They Find the Bodies of Titan’s Crew?
Yes, the U.S. Coast Guard has reported that they have recovered what are being referred to as “presumed human remains” from the seafloor in the area where the debris of the Titan submersible was found.
What will happen to the bodies that were recovered from the Titan’s debris field?
The U.S. Coast Guard has announced that a formal analysis will be conducted on the presumed human remains that were discovered in the area of the Titan submersible’s debris field.
Who will perform the formal autopsy on the bodies of the Titan crew?
The U.S. Coast Guard will be responsible for conducting the formal analysis of the presumed human remains that were recovered from the Titan submersible’s debris field.
What Happened to the Titan Submersible?
The Titan submersible, a 22-foot vessel with five passengers, experienced a catastrophic implosion during a deep-sea exploration mission to the Titanic wreckage site, at a depth of approximately 12,500 feet.
When will we know the results of the autopsies of the bodies found in the Titan’s debris field?
The timeline for the results of the formal analysis of the presumed human remains found in the Titan submersible’s debris field has not been disclosed by the U.S. Coast Guard at this time.
What is the significance of finding presumed human remains in the Titan’s debris field?
The discovery of presumed human remains in the Titan’s debris field is a significant development in the investigation into the tragic accident. This could potentially provide more information on what exactly occurred during the implosion of the Titan submersible.
What Causes an Underwater Implosion?
An underwater implosion typically occurs when the hull of a submarine or submersible cannot withstand the immense pressure exerted by the surrounding water. This usually results from a weakness or failure in the hull structure or its pressure-resisting components.
What Happens to a Body When a Submersible Implodes?
The sudden change in pressure during an implosion would cause immediate trauma to the human body, essentially disintegrating it. The specifics, however, depend on various factors including the depth at which the implosion occurs and the design of the submersible.
How Do Bodies Decompose at the Bottom of the Ocean?
Decomposition at the ocean’s bottom is a slow process due to extreme cold, intense pressure, and complete absence of sunlight. The bodies would first be acted upon by scavengers. Over time, the slow decomposition process combined with the action of the scavengers would eventually leave behind skeletal remains.
What Happens to the Bones Left at the Ocean Floor?
The skeletal remains would likely become part of the seafloor over time, being buried under sediment, thereby becoming a part of the ocean’s ecosystem.
Can the Bodies of the Titan Crew Be Recovered?
Recovery of bodies from such extreme depths is incredibly challenging due to the unforgiving deep-sea environment. It requires specialized equipment and poses significant risks, hence it is rarely attempted. Following a submarine implosion, the extreme and rapid increase in pressure is immense. This instantaneous transition from a controlled environment to one of severe pressure is highly destructive. It’s unlikely that anything, including human bodies, would stay intact in such an event. It’s important to note that this is a worst-case scenario, and every effort is made in the design, construction, and operation of submarines to prevent such occurrences.
What Are the Measures to Prevent Submarine Implosions?
Preventing such incidents involves rigorous safety measures, including meticulous pre-dive checks, continuous monitoring of structural integrity, and adhering to operational limits, especially depth limits. Training for emergency scenarios and maintaining effective communication lines are also crucial.
How does the fate of the bodies of the Titanic passengers compare to those on the Titan submarine?
In both cases, the extreme pressure, low temperature, and limited light of the deep ocean would lead to similar processes of decomposition. The specific conditions would depend on factors like the exact depth and local marine life.
Can the bodies of the Titanic passengers still be found today?
Given the amount of time that has passed and the deep-sea conditions, it is highly unlikely that any recognizable human remains of the Titanic disaster can be found today.
What happened to the bodies of Titanic passengers that were never recovered?
Bodies that were not recovered would have likely undergone decomposition under the extreme conditions of the deep sea, similar to those experienced by the crew of the Titan submarine.
Are there bodies of Titanic passengers at the bottom of the ocean?
The exact fate of all the bodies from the Titanic disaster is unknown. In the days following the tragedy in 1912, some bodies were recovered by passing ships, but many were not. Due to the extreme depth and cold temperatures where the Titanic sank, any bodies not recovered soon after the sinking would have been subject to the forces of decomposition and scavenging marine life. Today, researchers believe that there are likely no recognizable human remains at the Titanic wreck site. Instead, remnants of clothing, shoes, and other personal belongings, which were more resistant to decomposition, may still exist. The Titanic’s debris field is expansive, spanning an estimated 15 square miles, meaning not all wreckage or associated remains have been found or thoroughly explored. As of September 2021, no identifiable human remains have been confirmed at the Titanic wreck site.
Will the bodies of the Titan submarine crew be found at the bottom of the ocean?
The potential for recovering the bodies of the Titan submarine crew from the ocean’s depths is complex and dependent on a multitude of factors. The wreckage is situated about 13,000 feet below sea level, where extraordinary pressure and cold temperatures can pose significant challenges for recovery missions. Typically, specialized tools such as remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) are used to explore the debris and its surrounding area in such scenarios. However, physically retrieving bodies from such profound depths is a considerable challenge. The length of time that bodies have been submerged could impact their state of preservation, thereby influencing the likelihood of successful recovery. While these challenges remain, the US Coast Guard announced on Wednesday that they have recovered “presumed human remains” from the seafloor in the vicinity of the Titan submersible’s debris field. A formal analysis is currently being conducted by the military branch to confirm these findings. Thus, while the situation is ongoing and complex, efforts are being made to recover and identify the remains of the Titan’s crew.
