Space

SpaceX launches 2 private lunar landers to the moon

Two private lunar landers, Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost and Japan’s ispace’s Resilience, launched on January 15 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Blue Ghost, part of NASA’s CLPS program, is carrying 10 research payloads and will spend 25 days in Earth orbit before heading to the moon for a touchdown in Mare Crisium. Resilience, with a microrover named Tenacious, is … Continue reading SpaceX launches 2 private lunar landers to the moon

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Technology

Moon rover-inspired robot could be a game-changer for Japan’s aging farmers

Japan’s aging population, with a third over 65, is causing a significant labor shortage, particularly in agriculture. The number of farmers under 60 has dropped drastically, leading to a reliance on robotics to address the issue. Tamir Blum, founder of Kisui Tech, is developing AI-assisted farming robots, like the Adam, designed to help with tasks such as carrying produce, cutting grass, and spraying pesticides. Kisui … Continue reading Moon rover-inspired robot could be a game-changer for Japan’s aging farmers

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Business

John Deere faces U.S. lawsuit over farmers’ ability to repair tractors

John Deere is facing a federal lawsuit filed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the states of Illinois and Minnesota, accusing the company of forcing farmers to use only authorized dealers for repairs, thereby boosting profits. The lawsuit stems from complaints that Deere restricts access to its software and repair tools, making it difficult for farmers to fix their own equipment or use independent … Continue reading John Deere faces U.S. lawsuit over farmers’ ability to repair tractors

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Business

FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods

U.S. regulators have banned the dye Red 3 from food products due to its cancer risk, nearly 35 years after it was prohibited in cosmetics. The FDA’s decision follows a petition from health advocates, citing studies that showed the dye caused cancer in lab rats. The ban applies to food, dietary supplements, and oral medicines but not to external products like cosmetics. Manufacturers have until … Continue reading FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods

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Business

Wall Street soars on record bank profits and cooling inflation

US stocks surged on Wednesday following a positive inflation report and strong bank earnings. The Dow rose 703 points, or 1.65%, with the S&P 500 up 1.83% and the Nasdaq climbing 2.45%. Inflation data showed a slowdown in core consumer prices, easing concerns about rising inflation and interest rates. Robust fourth-quarter profits from major banks, including JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Citi, Wells Fargo, and BlackRock, … Continue reading Wall Street soars on record bank profits and cooling inflation

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Politics

Biden, in farewell address, warns about dangers of unchecked power in wealthy

In his farewell address, President Joe Biden reflected on his political career and achievements, including leading the country out of the pandemic and advancing infrastructure and climate change initiatives. He expressed pride in his administration’s accomplishments but warned of the growing concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, which he said threatens democracy. Biden also highlighted his role in securing a … Continue reading Biden, in farewell address, warns about dangers of unchecked power in wealthy

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Politics

South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol arrested

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol became the first sitting president to be arrested after a dramatic standoff with investigators. Yoon, 64, is under investigation for insurrection related to a failed martial law order on December 3. Despite being impeached by parliament, Yoon’s removal from office depends on a ruling by the Constitutional Court. His arrest followed a weeks-long standoff with investigators, who scaled walls … Continue reading South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol arrested

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Politics

Rubio tells Senate committee the “top priority” of State Department will be U.S. in confirmation hearing

During his confirmation hearing, Sen. Marco Rubio, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump as secretary of state, described China as the “most potent and dangerous near-peer adversary” the U.S. has faced, highlighting the country’s technological, industrial, economic, geopolitical, and scientific competition. Rubio stressed the importance of confronting China’s influence more forcefully, claiming the U.S. must prioritize national interests. He also defended Trump’s foreign policy decisions and … Continue reading Rubio tells Senate committee the “top priority” of State Department will be U.S. in confirmation hearing

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Politics

Speaker Johnson removes Mike Turner as Intelligence Committee chair

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) decided not to reappoint Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) as chair of the House Intelligence Committee, a role Turner held since 2022. The move came after complaints from the Freedom Caucus and MAGA-aligned members of the party, with some attributing the decision to pressure from Mar-a-Lago. Johnson described the change as a need for a “fresh start” for the committee, despite praising … Continue reading Speaker Johnson removes Mike Turner as Intelligence Committee chair

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Politics

Pam Bondi Vows to End ‘Weaponization’ of Justice if Confirmed as Attorney General

Pam Bondi, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for Attorney General, pledged to restore “one tier of justice for all” and address the weaponization of the Justice Department against political opponents. Bondi, Florida’s first female Attorney General, has been a strong Trump supporter, serving as his defense lawyer during his first impeachment and co-chair of Women for Trump in 2020. More than 100 former DOJ officials … Continue reading Pam Bondi Vows to End ‘Weaponization’ of Justice if Confirmed as Attorney General

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U.S. News

Southwest pilot removed from cockpit, booked for DUI

A Southwest Airlines pilot, David Paul Allsop, was removed from the cockpit before a flight from Georgia to Chicago on Wednesday after allegedly showing signs of intoxication and smelling of alcohol. He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Southwest Airlines apologized for the disruption, ensuring customer safety and rescheduling flights. Allsop’s bail was set at $3,500, and he was released on bond. … Continue reading Southwest pilot removed from cockpit, booked for DUI

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U.S. News

Texas sheriff’s deputy killed, suspect fatally shot after large search in Houston

Texas sheriff’s deputy Jesus Vargas, a 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County sheriff’s department, was fatally shot on Wednesday while attempting to serve an arrest warrant in Houston. Vargas, working with a U.S. Marshal’s task force, was targeted by a suspect with a lengthy criminal history, including aggravated assault. A large-scale search involving helicopters and K-9 units ensued, culminating hours later when law enforcement located … Continue reading Texas sheriff’s deputy killed, suspect fatally shot after large search in Houston

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U.S. News

Pacific Palisades residents sue Los Angeles department of water and power

Residents and businesses in Pacific Palisades have sued Los Angeles’ Department of Water and Power (LADWP), claiming unpreparedness and a failed water system worsened the Palisades Fire, which began January 7, destroyed 5,000 structures, and caused eight deaths. The lawsuit, filed in California Superior Court, seeks damages for property losses, living expenses, and lost income, citing the empty Santa Ynez Reservoir and ignored fire warnings … Continue reading Pacific Palisades residents sue Los Angeles department of water and power

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U.S. News

Guards ‘systematically and casually’ beat New York inmate to death, lawsuit says

The son of Robert L. Brooks Sr., who died after a brutal beating by guards at Marcy Correctional Facility in New York, filed a federal lawsuit alleging systematic violence and negligence. Brooks, a 43-year-old Black inmate, died in December 2023, a day after being handcuffed, beaten, and lifted by his neck in an attack caught on body camera footage. The lawsuit names over a dozen … Continue reading Guards ‘systematically and casually’ beat New York inmate to death, lawsuit says

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U.S. News

Sinaloa cartel leader ‘El Mayo’ in plea talks in Brooklyn federal case, prosecutor says

Sinaloa cartel co-founder Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, 76, is negotiating a plea deal with U.S. federal prosecutors in Brooklyn to avoid a trial that could result in the death penalty. Arrested in New Mexico in July after decades on the run, Zambada faces 17 counts of drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and money laundering. During a hearing, he chose to keep his lawyer despite a conflict … Continue reading Sinaloa cartel leader ‘El Mayo’ in plea talks in Brooklyn federal case, prosecutor says

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World News

Ukraine losing ground on the battlefield as Trump team pushes ceasefire

With Donald Trump set to re-enter the White House, Ukraine faces mounting challenges. Its troops are struggling against Russia’s advances, with limited resources and dwindling military aid prospects. Russia continues its offensive, gaining territory in Donetsk while Ukrainian forces defend key positions. Ukraine’s defense priorities include stabilizing frontlines and bolstering capabilities, with allies pledging further aid. Talks of ending the conflict remain unlikely, as Moscow … Continue reading Ukraine losing ground on the battlefield as Trump team pushes ceasefire

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World News

After cable damage, Taiwan to step up surveillance of ‘flag of convenience’ ships

Taiwan will enhance surveillance and inspection of foreign-flagged ships after a Chinese-linked cargo vessel allegedly damaged an undersea communication cable. Authorities plan to board suspicious vessels near sensitive areas and strengthen monitoring of undersea cables and landing points. Taiwan’s National Security Bureau emphasized international cooperation with the U.S. and Europe to address cable sabotage risks. The incident adds to concerns over China’s “gray zone” tactics, … Continue reading After cable damage, Taiwan to step up surveillance of ‘flag of convenience’ ships

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World News

Russian missile attack forces Ukraine to shut down power grid

Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure across multiple regions, including Lviv and Kharkiv. Ukrainian forces shot down 30 of 43 missiles and 47 of 74 drones, but emergency power outages were imposed in six regions. The assault aims to cripple Ukraine’s power grid during winter, exacerbating energy shortages. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urged Western allies to expedite air defense … Continue reading Russian missile attack forces Ukraine to shut down power grid

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World News

South Africa criticized for ‘horrific’ mining crackdown after 78 bodies pulled from underground

South Africa’s government faces criticism after cutting off food and water to illegal miners underground, leading to at least 78 deaths and over 100 others presumed dead from starvation at the Stilfontein mine. Rescuers have saved 166 people following a court-ordered operation, with survivors described as severely emaciated. Unions and opposition parties have condemned the government’s handling, calling it a display of negligence. The government … Continue reading South Africa criticized for ‘horrific’ mining crackdown after 78 bodies pulled from underground

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World News

Israel and Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal ending 15 months of conflict, confirmed by U.S. President Joe Biden. The agreement includes a complete ceasefire, Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of hostages held by Hamas. UN Secretary General António Guterres emphasized prioritizing aid to alleviate suffering. However, the ceasefire, set to begin on January 19, follows continued violence, with Israeli airstrikes reportedly … Continue reading Israel and Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal

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Space

Enormous, mountain-size asteroid will be visible from Earth this weekend in rare ‘once in a decade’ event

The asteroid (887) Alinda, measuring 2.6 miles wide, recently passed within 7.6 million miles of Earth on January 8 and will peak in brightness on January 12, visible through binoculars or a good telescope. This rare event occurs once a decade, with Alinda being one of the five largest asteroids to pass close to Earth in the next 175 years. While it poses no threat, … Continue reading Enormous, mountain-size asteroid will be visible from Earth this weekend in rare ‘once in a decade’ event

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Space

SpaceX launches 21 Starlink satellites from Florida, lands booster for 15th time

SpaceX launched 21 Starlink satellites, including 13 with direct-to-cell capabilities, from Cape Canaveral on January 13. The Falcon 9 rocket’s first-stage booster successfully landed in the Atlantic Ocean after eight minutes, marking its 15th launch and landing. The upper stage deployed the satellites into low Earth orbit about 65 minutes after liftoff, Space.com has reported. This launch was SpaceX’s sixth of 2025, following a busy … Continue reading SpaceX launches 21 Starlink satellites from Florida, lands booster for 15th time

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Space

Strange Flashes Could Be Signs of Closest Object Seen Near a Black Hole

A supermassive black hole in the galaxy 1ES 1927+654, located 275 million light-years from the Milky Way, has baffled astronomers with its unusual behavior. Recent observations suggest the black hole’s fluctuations are caused by a white dwarf star orbiting dangerously close to its event horizon. The star’s orbit is shrinking, causing rapid changes in the black hole’s X-ray emissions. The dense white dwarf, which is … Continue reading Strange Flashes Could Be Signs of Closest Object Seen Near a Black Hole

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Technology

China’s newest humanoid robot is ready to serve like never before

Chinese startup Pudu Robotics has launched the D9 humanoid robot, designed to transform how we interact with machines. Standing 5.57 feet tall, the D9 can carry up to 44 pounds, walk at speeds of 4.5 mph, and navigate stairs and slopes while maintaining balance. It features advanced sensors for real-time 3D mapping, enabling autonomous navigation and self-positioning. The robot has diverse applications, such as ground … Continue reading China’s newest humanoid robot is ready to serve like never before

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Business

Southwest Airlines pauses corporate hiring, most summer internships to cut costs

Southwest Airlines is pausing corporate hiring, promotions, and most summer internships, while suspending some employee team-building events to reduce costs and improve margins. CEO Bob Jordan emphasized the importance of financial performance and said the company would evaluate hiring needs as necessary. The airline is also halting its long-standing employee rallies and other activities to focus on profitability. This move comes after pressure from activist … Continue reading Southwest Airlines pauses corporate hiring, most summer internships to cut costs

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