Author: bcbegley

Space

Hubble and Webb Teamed Up to Reveal the Hidden Faces of a Star-forming Region

On July 7, 2025, NASA released striking new images from the Hubble and Webb space telescopes showing two star clusters, NGC 460 and NGC 456, in the Small Magellanic Cloud—a nearby dwarf galaxy. By combining Hubble’s visible-light and Webb’s infrared views, scientists gained unprecedented insight into star birth and evolution in conditions resembling the early universe. The images reveal detailed gas, dust, and stellar structures, … Continue reading Hubble and Webb Teamed Up to Reveal the Hidden Faces of a Star-forming Region

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Technology

Germany accuses China of laser targeting aircraft in EU mission

Germany has accused the Chinese military of targeting one of its aircraft with a laser during an EU mission over the Red Sea. The incident, which forced the German plane to abort its mission and land safely in Djibouti, occurred during Operation Aspides, a defensive EU effort against attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels. Germany summoned the Chinese ambassador to protest, calling the laser targeting unacceptable … Continue reading Germany accuses China of laser targeting aircraft in EU mission

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Business

Exxon Mobil warns lower oil, gas prices could cut profit by over $1B

Exxon Mobil warned that lower oil and gas prices could reduce its second-quarter earnings by about $1.5 billion compared to the previous quarter. Brent crude prices fell 11% and U.S. natural gas prices dropped 9% in Q2 due to increased OPEC+ supply. Exxon is expected to report adjusted earnings of $1.53 per share for the quarter when it releases full results on August 1, the … Continue reading Exxon Mobil warns lower oil, gas prices could cut profit by over $1B

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Business

Samsung expects second-quarter profits to more than halve as it struggles to capture AI demand

Samsung Electronics forecast a 56% drop in second-quarter profits, projecting an operating profit of 4.6 trillion won, far below analyst expectations. The decline is attributed to inventory adjustments, U.S. restrictions on advanced AI chips for China, and lagging behind rivals like SK Hynix in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips critical for AI. Samsung is still working to get its latest HBM chips certified by Nvidia, the … Continue reading Samsung expects second-quarter profits to more than halve as it struggles to capture AI demand

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Business

Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner tapped to lead Hershey

Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner has been named the new chief executive of The Hershey Company, effective August 18, succeeding Michele Buck, who is retiring after nearly 20 years with Hershey. Tanner, who joined Wendy’s in 2024 after a long career at PepsiCo, will return to the consumer packaged goods sector. Hershey praised Tanner’s extensive experience in snacks, beverages, M&A, and innovation. Michele Buck will stay … Continue reading Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner tapped to lead Hershey

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Politics

New book exposes Jill Biden’s power grab amid husband’s political demise

A new book, 2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America, describes First Lady Jill Biden’s growing influence as President Joe Biden’s political fortunes declined. The authors say Jill Biden emerged as a powerful, protective figure who encouraged Biden to stay in the 2024 race even after a disastrous debate against Donald Trump raised concerns about his age and cognitive fitness. Her … Continue reading New book exposes Jill Biden’s power grab amid husband’s political demise

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Politics

Japan calls Trump’s latest tariff salvo ‘regrettable’

President Donald Trump’s recent letters announcing steep new U.S. tariffs on imports from over a dozen countries, including allies, have prompted “shock” and “regret” abroad while leaving room for further negotiations. Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and South Africa all expressed disappointment at the new tariffs—ranging from 20% to 36%—but signaled they would continue talks with the U.S. to try to reduce them before the … Continue reading Japan calls Trump’s latest tariff salvo ‘regrettable’

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Politics

UN adopts resolution on Afghanistan’s Taliban rule over US objections

The U.N. General Assembly passed a resolution Monday urging Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers to end their escalating oppression of women and girls and to eliminate all terrorist groups. Despite U.S. and Israeli opposition, the resolution passed 116–2 with 12 abstentions. It also calls for economic recovery and humanitarian aid for Afghanistan. The measure is nonbinding but signals global condemnation of the Taliban’s harsh policies since 2021, … Continue reading UN adopts resolution on Afghanistan’s Taliban rule over US objections

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Politics

French president greeted by King Charles as state visit begins

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte began a three-day state visit to the UK, greeted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in Windsor. It is the first French presidential state visit to Britain since 2008 and the first by an EU leader since Brexit. The visit aims to strengthen UK–France ties, with talks expected on migration, defence, security, and economic growth. Macron … Continue reading French president greeted by King Charles as state visit begins

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Politics

Rubio impostor using AI voice to call high-level officials

An imposter used AI-generated audio to mimic Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s voice and contacted senior U.S. officials and foreign ministers through Signal, according to a State Department cable. At least five people, including three foreign ministers, a U.S. governor, and a member of Congress, received fake voicemails or texts from the impersonator, who also created a fake Signal account using Rubio’s name. The scheme … Continue reading Rubio impostor using AI voice to call high-level officials

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U.S. News

Fugitive dad, Travis Decker, accused of killing 3 daughters possibly spotted in Idaho forest

Travis Decker, the Washington state man wanted for killing his three young daughters, may have been spotted over the weekend in Idaho’s Sawtooth National Forest, authorities said. A family reported seeing someone matching his description near Bear Creek, about 100 miles east of Boise. Decker has been missing since June 2, when the bodies of his daughters—ages 5, 8, and 9—were found at a Washington … Continue reading Fugitive dad, Travis Decker, accused of killing 3 daughters possibly spotted in Idaho forest

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U.S. News

Texas floods death toll climbs to more than 100

More than 100 people have died and many remain missing after devastating flash floods hit central Texas on July 4. Rescue teams continue searching through mud-covered riverbanks as further storms threaten the region. Among the dead are at least 27 girls and staff from Camp Mystic, with 11 others from the camp still missing. Kerr County was especially hard-hit, with 84 confirmed deaths. The White … Continue reading Texas floods death toll climbs to more than 100

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U.S. News

10 held in Texas detention center shooting that was ‘planned ambush’

Ten people have been arrested on attempted murder charges after a planned ambush outside the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, where a police officer was shot in the neck on July 4. According to the U.S. attorney, the suspects, dressed in black military-style gear, set off fireworks and vandalized property to lure Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel outside before opening fire. Officers recovered weapons, … Continue reading 10 held in Texas detention center shooting that was ‘planned ambush’

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U.S. News

Judge says case against Milwaukee judge who helped undocumented man evade arrest to continue

A federal magistrate judge in Wisconsin has recommended against dismissing the criminal case against Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan, who is accused of helping an undocumented man evade immigration arrest. Dugan, 65, faces charges of concealing a person sought by immigration authorities and obstructing removal proceedings. Her lawyers argued she has judicial immunity, but the magistrate ruled that immunity does not extend to criminal charges, especially … Continue reading Judge says case against Milwaukee judge who helped undocumented man evade arrest to continue

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U.S. News

LA Mayor Karen Bass confronts federal agents at Los Angeles park

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said she personally intervened to stop a federal immigration enforcement operation in MacArthur Park on Monday. Bass confronted U.S. Border Patrol agents, demanding they leave, and said they departed shortly after. Video showed uniformed authorities on foot and horseback moving through the park where children had been playing. Bass called the operation “absolutely outrageous.” Federal officials said Customs and Border … Continue reading LA Mayor Karen Bass confronts federal agents at Los Angeles park

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World News

Executions in Saudi Arabia reach a record high mostly over drug cases, Amnesty says

Executions in Saudi Arabia hit a record high in 2024, with 345 people executed last year and 180 in the first half of this year, according to Amnesty International. Activists highlight the kingdom’s growing use of the death penalty for nonviolent drug offenses, which make up about two-thirds of recent executions. Many foreign nationals on death row face unfair trials and lack legal representation, the … Continue reading Executions in Saudi Arabia reach a record high mostly over drug cases, Amnesty says

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World News

Monsoon floods sweep away 20 people and the main bridge linking Nepal to China

Monsoon rains triggered severe flooding in Nepal’s Bhotekoshi River on Tuesday, destroying the main Friendship Bridge linking Nepal and China at Rasuwagadi and leaving 20 people missing—14 Nepalis and six Chinese. Rescue teams, including an army helicopter, have saved 55 people so far. The flooding swept away homes, trucks, and parked vehicles at the border. The disaster has halted trade along this key route, forcing … Continue reading Monsoon floods sweep away 20 people and the main bridge linking Nepal to China

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World News

11 dead and hundreds arrested in Kenya’s anti-government protests

At least 11 people were killed and over 500 arrested during anti-government protests across Kenya on Monday, according to police. The demonstrations marked the 35th anniversary of the pro-democracy Saba Saba march and were fueled by anger over corruption, police brutality, and recent deaths in custody. Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, and reportedly live fire to disperse crowds in cities including Nairobi. Despite … Continue reading 11 dead and hundreds arrested in Kenya’s anti-government protests

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World News

5 IDF soldiers killed, 14 injured by roadside bombs in northern Gaza

Five Israeli soldiers were killed and 14 wounded in a Hamas roadside bomb attack in Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza, on Monday night. The bombs, detonated in succession during a ground operation, struck foot soldiers from the Kfir Brigade’s Netzah Yehuda Battalion and Gaza Division’s Northern Brigade. A Hamas cell also opened fire during the ambush. Israeli forces responded with air support to prevent possible abductions. … Continue reading 5 IDF soldiers killed, 14 injured by roadside bombs in northern Gaza

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World News

Man ‘commits suicide’ by ‘throwing self’ into jet engine on runway

A 35-year-old man died by suicide after running onto the tarmac at Milan Bergamo Airport and throwing himself into the engine of a Volotea Airbus A319 preparing for takeoff. He was not a passenger or airport employee and had entered the restricted area without a ticket, evading police before the fatal act. The incident led to temporary suspension of airport operations, flight cancellations, and diversions. … Continue reading Man ‘commits suicide’ by ‘throwing self’ into jet engine on runway

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Archaeology

Archaeologists unveil 3,500-year-old city in Peru

Archaeologists have discovered a 3,500-year-old city named Peñico in northern Peru’s Barranca province, believed to be a major trading hub linking Pacific coast, Andes, and Amazon communities. Founded between 1800-1500 BC, Peñico offers new insights into the fate of the Americas’ oldest civilization, Caral. The site features 18 structures, including temples and homes, with artifacts like clay sculptures and seashell necklaces, the BBC has reported. … Continue reading Archaeologists unveil 3,500-year-old city in Peru

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Space

German space capsule lost carrying ashes of 166 people

Bavarian startup The Exploration Company (TEC) is investigating the loss of its “Nyx Mission Possible” space capsule, which carried the ashes of 166 people and was supposed to return them to Earth after orbiting twice. The capsule re-entered the atmosphere but lost communication just before parachute deployment, and recovery is unlikely. TEC apologized to clients and formed an independent investigation team. The capsule also carried … Continue reading German space capsule lost carrying ashes of 166 people

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Business

10-year Treasury yield rises as Trump extends tariff deadline

U.S. 10-year Treasury yields rose Monday as investors reacted to trade tensions surrounding the expiration of a 90-day tariff reprieve, with tariffs set to revert to April levels this week. President Trump also threatened new 10% tariffs on countries supporting “Anti-American policies” of the BRICS group. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hinted at several upcoming trade announcements, CNBC has reported. BRICS leaders condemned Trump’s tariff actions … Continue reading 10-year Treasury yield rises as Trump extends tariff deadline

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Business

Apple hits back against ‘unprecedented’ €500m EU fine

Apple is appealing a €500 million fine from the EU for allegedly restricting app developers from informing customers about alternative offers outside its App Store. Apple calls the penalty “unprecedented” and argues the EU’s demands add unnecessary complexity for users and developers. The European Commission plans to defend its decision in court, BBC has reported. Analysts say Apple’s appeal was expected but highlights the complex, … Continue reading Apple hits back against ‘unprecedented’ €500m EU fine

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Business

CoreWeave to acquire Core Scientific in $9 billion all-stock deal

CoreWeave announced it will acquire data center provider Core Scientific in a $9 billion all-stock deal, aiming to boost its AI infrastructure. The acquisition will cut $10 billion in lease obligations and enhance efficiency, expanding CoreWeave’s U.S. data center capacity to 1.3 gigawatts with room for growth. The deal, expected to close in late 2025, values Core Scientific at a 66% premium, with its shareholders … Continue reading CoreWeave to acquire Core Scientific in $9 billion all-stock deal

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