Author: bcbegley

Space

NASA Fears Mars Imager Probe MAVEN May Be Lost

NASA may have lost contact permanently with its long-running Mars orbiter, MAVEN, which has been silent since December 6 while passing behind Mars. Analysis suggests the spacecraft is tumbling and has left its planned orbit, making recovery unlikely. MAVEN exceeded its original two-year mission, studying Mars’ upper atmosphere, the solar wind, and helping relay communications for rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance. Multiple attempts to locate … Continue reading NASA Fears Mars Imager Probe MAVEN May Be Lost

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Space

Sick astronaut, rest of crew splash down in Pacific after undocking from ISS

NASA’s ISS Crew-11 safely returned to Earth, splashing down in the Pacific off San Diego early Thursday morning. The mission was cut short due to a medical issue affecting one astronaut, though the individual remained stable and no emergency evacuation was needed. Crew-11 undocked from the ISS Wednesday evening after preparing cargo and reviewing return procedures. The team included two Americans, a Japanese astronaut, and … Continue reading Sick astronaut, rest of crew splash down in Pacific after undocking from ISS

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Technology

Bluetooth devices with Google Fast Pair vulnerable to “WhisperPair” hack

Security researchers have discovered a vulnerability called WhisperPair that allows attackers to hijack Google Fast Pair–enabled Bluetooth devices. The flaw affects more than a dozen products from major manufacturers, including Sony, JBL, Google, and OnePlus, even if users have never used Google services. Attackers can exploit the weakness in seconds from up to 14 meters away, often without the victim noticing. Once connected, hackers can … Continue reading Bluetooth devices with Google Fast Pair vulnerable to “WhisperPair” hack

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Technology

Verizon to issue $20 credits to customers affected by cell service outage

Verizon announced it will issue $20 account credits to customers affected by a nearly daylong cellular outage on Wednesday. The disruption, which halted voice and data services nationwide, lasted from around noon until late evening. Verizon apologized for the failure and said customers can redeem the credit through the myVerizon app. The company did not explain the cause of the outage, while lawmakers raised concerns … Continue reading Verizon to issue $20 credits to customers affected by cell service outage

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Technology

5 Million Accounts Removed Under Australia’s New Social Media Ban

Nearly five million social media accounts belonging to Australian teenagers have been removed or deactivated since a law banning users under 16 took effect last month. The law requires major platforms to take reasonable steps to block underage users or face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the early results encouraging, though officials acknowledged the figures offer only … Continue reading 5 Million Accounts Removed Under Australia’s New Social Media Ban

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Business

White House says 25% semiconductor tariffs a ‘phase one’ action

The U.S. Commerce Department announced a 25% national security tariff on certain high-end semiconductors. A White House official said the move is a “phase one” step to protect the U.S. chip sector and may be followed by additional actions. Further announcements could come after negotiations with other countries and companies. President Trump has previously warned of imposing tariffs as high as 100% on chips not … Continue reading White House says 25% semiconductor tariffs a ‘phase one’ action

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Business

Coinbase CEO says key crypto vote can be rescheduled after 11th hour cancellation

Senators say they will continue pushing a major cryptocurrency bill after a last-minute committee vote was postponed. The legislation, intended to create clear rules for the crypto industry, has stalled amid long-standing disagreements among lawmakers, crypto firms, and banks. Opposition from Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, who cited concerns over limits on crypto rewards and reduced regulatory authority, contributed to the delay. Banking Committee Chair Tim … Continue reading Coinbase CEO says key crypto vote can be rescheduled after 11th hour cancellation

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Business

Taiwan will invest $250 billion in U.S. chipmaking under new trade deal

The U.S. and Taiwan reached a trade agreement aimed at expanding semiconductor manufacturing in the United States, the Commerce Department announced. Taiwanese chip and technology firms will invest at least $250 billion in U.S. production, backed by $250 billion in credit guarantees from Taiwan’s government. In return, the U.S. will reduce reciprocal tariffs on Taiwan to 15% and eliminate them on certain goods, while offering … Continue reading Taiwan will invest $250 billion in U.S. chipmaking under new trade deal

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Politics

Japan, Philippines sign new defence pacts amid surging China tensions

The Philippines and Japan signed two defense agreements, including an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement allowing their forces to exchange supplies such as fuel, ammunition, and food during joint training. Japan also pledged $6 million in security assistance to build facilities for donated patrol boats, boosting Manila’s naval capabilities. The agreements deepen military ties amid regional tensions, with both countries emphasizing freedom of navigation and opposition … Continue reading Japan, Philippines sign new defence pacts amid surging China tensions

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Politics

More Democrat reps involved in ‘refuse illegal orders’ video report receiving inquiry from US attorney

Three Democratic lawmakers said they are being investigated by federal prosecutors for participating in a video urging service members to refuse illegal orders. Reps. Jason Crow, Chrissy Houlahan, and Maggie Goodlander said they were contacted by the U.S. attorney in Washington seeking interviews related to the video. The November message, which included other Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds, was released during debate over President Trump’s … Continue reading More Democrat reps involved in ‘refuse illegal orders’ video report receiving inquiry from US attorney

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Politics

Democratic lawmakers file articles of impeachment against Kristi Noem

Democratic Rep. Robin Kelly introduced articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. Kelly alleges Noem obstructed Congress, violated public trust, and engaged in self‑dealing, and claims she has the support of 70 members of Congress. Noem and the Trump administration have defended the agency’s actions, calling the incident an … Continue reading Democratic lawmakers file articles of impeachment against Kristi Noem

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Politics

Trump signs a law returning whole milk to school lunches

Whole milk is returning to school cafeterias nationwide after President Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, overturning Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk. Schools in the National School Lunch Program can now offer whole, 2%, 1%, and skim milk, as well as nondairy alternatives that meet nutritional standards. The law allows parents to request nondairy milk for their children without a doctor’s note … Continue reading Trump signs a law returning whole milk to school lunches

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Politics

Senate Republicans block Venezuela war powers resolution

The Senate blocked a war powers resolution that would have required President Trump to get congressional approval before further military actions in Venezuela, with Vice President JD Vance breaking a 51-50 tie. The measure was prompted by a recent U.S. operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro without prior congressional notice. Two Republicans who had initially supported the resolution, Josh Hawley and Todd Young, reversed … Continue reading Senate Republicans block Venezuela war powers resolution

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U.S. News

Best friends die in Florida after sand hole traps them underground

Two 14-year-old boys, George Watts and Derrick Hubbard, died after a sand hole they were digging at Sportsman Park in Inverness, Florida, collapsed and trapped them for over an hour. Emergency responders pulled the boys from the hole and began CPR, but Derrick died on Sunday, and George died at the hospital on Tuesday. Their families described them as best friends who shared a close … Continue reading Best friends die in Florida after sand hole traps them underground

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U.S. News

12 people displaced after fire tears through Atlantic City apartment building

A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at the Brighton Towers condo building in Atlantic City, displacing at least 12 residents. Flames were seen pouring from the eighth floor of the 13-story building around 4:51 a.m., forcing residents to evacuate via stairs. Twelve units were rendered uninhabitable due to fire and water damage, with the Red Cross assisting residents in finding temporary housing. Around 80 … Continue reading 12 people displaced after fire tears through Atlantic City apartment building

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U.S. News

Ex-lawmaker who advocated protecting kids gets 17 years in prison for sharing child sex abuse videos

Former South Carolina Republican lawmaker RJ May was sentenced to 17½ years in federal prison for distributing hundreds of videos of children being sexually abused while publicly advocating for child protection laws. The judge called his actions deeply hypocritical and emphasized the lasting harm to the victims. May pleaded guilty to sharing the videos over a five-day period in 2024 and resigned from the legislature … Continue reading Ex-lawmaker who advocated protecting kids gets 17 years in prison for sharing child sex abuse videos

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U.S. News

Bondi defends seizing reporter’s devices over alleged classified leaks involving foreign adversary

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Justice Department authorized the seizure of Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson’s devices in a classified leak investigation, reigniting debate over press protections. Bondi said she rescinded previous guidance shielding journalists from searches, emphasizing that the probe involves classified material that could endanger U.S. service members. Agents seized Natanson’s work and personal laptops, phone, and smartwatch, while the Post … Continue reading Bondi defends seizing reporter’s devices over alleged classified leaks involving foreign adversary

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U.S. News

DHS: ICE officers in Minneapolis shoot Venezuelan man in the leg

An ICE agent shot a Venezuelan man in the leg in North Minneapolis after he resisted arrest and allegedly attacked the officer. Two others joined the assault with a snow shovel and broom handle during the struggle. The man had fled a traffic stop and crashed his vehicle before the confrontation, and he was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The other two individuals involved were taken … Continue reading DHS: ICE officers in Minneapolis shoot Venezuelan man in the leg

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World News

Pope Leo’s mosaic portrait ready for Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

The Vatican Mosaic Studio of the Fabric of Saint Peter has completed a mosaic medallion honoring Pope Leo XIV, the Holy See announced. Following tradition, the mosaic was finished just over eight months after his election and will be installed in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, near the portrait of Pope Francis. The 137-centimeter roundel was crafted with glass enamels and gold … Continue reading Pope Leo’s mosaic portrait ready for Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

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World News

Yulia Tymoshenko reportedly accused of scheming to bribe Ukrainian MPs

Ukrainian anti-corruption investigators have accused former Prime Minister and opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko of orchestrating a scheme to bribe MPs, including some from President Zelenskyy’s party, to influence parliamentary votes. Tymoshenko’s Fatherland party offices were raided, and cash was seized, but she denies the allegations, calling the investigation politically motivated ahead of possible elections. The accusations reportedly involve payments to secure votes on dismissals of … Continue reading Yulia Tymoshenko reportedly accused of scheming to bribe Ukrainian MPs

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World News

US announces next phase of Gaza ceasefire plan, committee is formed

The United States has announced the start of the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, alongside the formation of a technocratic committee to govern the territory. This phase focuses on demilitarization, reconstruction, and transitional governance, though major details remain unresolved. The move comes despite Israeli opposition, particularly over Hamas’ disarmament and the continued holding of a hostage’s remains, prompting Israel to keep the Rafah … Continue reading US announces next phase of Gaza ceasefire plan, committee is formed

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World News

Zelensky declares energy emergency as biting cold persists

Ukraine has declared a state of emergency in its energy sector, particularly affecting Kyiv, as ongoing Russian strikes leave thousands without power, heat, or water during severe winter conditions. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of deliberately targeting energy infrastructure to exploit freezing temperatures, which have dropped to around -20°C in the capital. The announcement comes amid comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said Ukraine … Continue reading Zelensky declares energy emergency as biting cold persists

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World News

European troops arrive in Greenland to boost the Arctic island’s security

Troops from several European countries, including France, Germany, Norway and Sweden, are deploying to Greenland to strengthen security as tensions rise between the United States and its European allies. The move follows talks in Washington between Danish, Greenlandic and U.S. officials that revealed a “fundamental disagreement” over President Donald Trump’s stated desire to take control of Greenland. Denmark plans to expand its military presence on … Continue reading European troops arrive in Greenland to boost the Arctic island’s security

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Business

Gold hits record as inflation data cements Fed rate cut bets

Gold reached a record high Tuesday, driven by lower-than-expected U.S. inflation data and ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties, while silver also hit a new peak. U.S. core CPI rose 0.2% month-on-month and 2.6% year-on-year in December, strengthening bets on Federal Reserve rate cuts later this year. Investors see lower interest rates as favorable for non-yielding metals, amid safe-haven demand amid tensions involving the U.S., Iran, … Continue reading Gold hits record as inflation data cements Fed rate cut bets

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Business

China’s annual trade surplus hits a record $1.2 trillion

China’s December exports surged 6.6%, beating expectations, while imports rose 5.7%, marking their fastest growth in three months. This strong performance pushed the country’s 2025 trade surplus to a record $1.19 trillion, up 20% from 2024. Trade with the U.S. continued to decline sharply, with exports falling 30% in December and imports dropping 29%, highlighting ongoing tensions. Officials emphasized the need for dialogue to improve … Continue reading China’s annual trade surplus hits a record $1.2 trillion

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