Supreme Court temporarily blocks full SNAP benefits even as they’d started to go out
Jennifer Ludden The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily granted the Trump administration’s request to block full SNAP food benefits during the government shutdown, even as residents in some states had already begun receiving them. The Trump administration is appealing a court order to fully restart the country’s largest anti-hunger program. The high court decision late Friday […]
Why Is the Milky Way Warped?
The UniverseFridays Our Milky Way’s Warped Disk Keeps Getting Weirder Observations show the disk of our galaxy is not flat but warped and waving. Astronomers are still working out the reasons why By Phil Plait edited by Lee Billings Observations from the European Space Agency’s Gaia mission have revealed a giant wave rippling through the […]
After California’s vote to counter Trump, here’s where redistricting stands
Larry Kaplow Loading… California voters this week made the biggest Democratic move yet against President Trump’s effort to reshape voting maps in favor of Republicans in the 2026 midterm elections. They overwhelmingly approved a map for congressional districts that could help Democrats win five more seats in the U.S. House. The ballot language itself referred […]
How Supermassive Black Holes Can Become Cosmic Nightmares
The UniverseFridays Do We Live in a Haunted Galaxy? Huge eruptions from the Milky Way’s supermassive black hole in the distant past may have sterilized much of the inner galaxy By Phil Plait edited by Lee Billings Stay connected to The Universe: Get email alerts for this weekly column by Phil Plait Galaxies are spooky […]
Why an interstellar comet has scientists excited
Jaclyn Diaz An ancient comet that entered our solar system this summer is offering a rare opportunity to learn more about distant planetary systems far beyond the reach of any spacecraft, researchers say. The comet is special both because it is interstellar — meaning it came from outside our solar system — and also because […]
Calvin Harris Accuses Financial Adviser of Stealing $22.5 Million
In an arbitration demand, DJ Calvin Harris has accused his financial adviser Thomas St. John of stealing money from him under the guise of a real estate investment. This is not what Calvin Harris came for. The DJ (real name Adam Wiles) has accused his financial adviser Thomas St. John of stealing over $22.5 million…
‘The bombing has been insane’: Palestinians scramble to flee Israeli assault on Gaza City
Thousands of families are attempting to flee Gaza City as the Israeli military confirms it has begun ground operations that are part of its large-scale assault aimed at occupying the city. Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, a mother of three from the city’s Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood told the BBC she had resisted leaving her home – despite…
Weird ‘Time Crystals’ Are Made Visible at Last
Weird ‘Time Crystals’ Are Made Visible at Last Time crystals, a state of matter once thought physically impossible, could soon be on a banknote By Elizabeth Gibney & Nature magazine A time crystal as seen under a microscope. A time crystal is a form of matter that shows continuous, repeating patterns over time, much like…
A U.N. inquiry accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza, joining a rising chorus
By The Associated Press GENEVA — A team of independent experts commissioned by the United Nations’ Human Rights Council has concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, issuing a report Tuesday that calls on the international community to end the genocide and take steps to punish those responsible for it. The deeply-documented findings by…
Who was Agnes Wanjiru, Kenyan woman killed near army base in 2012?
Relatives remember a dependable, kind and funny woman and remain traumatised by her death Perhaps the Kenyan market town of Nanyuki’s greatest claim to fame was that it straddles the equator. But now it has become synonymous with something darker. It was here where Agnes Wanjiru was born and lived and where she was brutally…
Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, UN commission of inquiry says
A United Nations commission of inquiry says Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. A new report says there are reasonable grounds to conclude that four of the five genocidal acts defined under international law have been carried out since the start of the war with Hamas in 2023: killing members of a group,…
Nixing Daylight Saving Time May Lower Risk of Obesity and Stroke
Our Body Clock Might Prefer Permanent Standard Time A new study suggests that permanent standard time may reduce obesity and stroke By Humberto Basilio edited by Lauren J. Young Winding clocks an hour back this fall, when daylight saving time ends for the year across much of the U.S., might do more than just disrupt…
On Texas border, uninsured people stress the health system. It’s set to get worse
By Sam Whitehead , Renuka Rayasam RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas — Dr. Jake Margo Jr. stood in the triage room at Starr County Memorial Hospital explaining why a person with persistent fever who could be treated with over-the-counter medication didn’t need to be admitted to the emergency room. “We’re going to take care of the…
Dancing With the Stars Secrets Revealed: Paychecks, Partners and More
Dancing With the Stars season 34 premieres Sept. 16. But before fans join hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro back in the ballroom, they can spin on over to read facts about the show. Polish up that Mirrorball Trophy because Dancing With the Stars is back. Season 34 premieres Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. EST…
Australia-PNG defence treaty: countries to agree to defend each other from military attack as China’s Pacific influence grows
Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea’s defence minister downplayed the delay to the Pukpuk defence treaty being formalised Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Australia and Papua New Guinea will agree to defend each other in the event of a military attack, part of a landmark defence agreement due to…
CDC Panel to Review Childhood Vaccines: What’s at Stake
CDC Panel to Review Childhood Vaccines: What’s at Stake What to know about the three shots under scrutiny by RFK Jr’s advisers and the data behind them By Mariana Lenharo & Nature magazine A child picks out a bandaid as he prepares to get his COVID vaccination in San Jose, Calif., in 2022. COVID shots are among several vaccines…
Appeals court says Lisa Cook can stay on the Federal Reserve board — for now
Scott Horsley A federal appeals court has blocked President Trump from firing a member of the Federal Reserve’s governing board, just ahead of a key vote on interest rates. On a two-to-one vote, the divided court upheld an earlier decision from a district judge who found that firing Lisa Cook would likely violate the Federal…
Why Trump’s state visit is mired with potential pitfalls despite careful planning
US President Donald Trump’s state visit to the United Kingdom this week will be no stranger to controversy, just as his first was six years ago. Back then, in June 2019, as well as taking tea with the late Queen, the US President called London Mayor Sadiq Khan “a stone-cold loser”, backed Boris Johnson in…
Pregnant Vanessa Hudgens Is Radiant in New Baby Bump Photos
Pregnant High School Musical star Vanessa Hudgens shared new pictures of her baby bump alongside husband Cole Tucker, with whom she shares a 14-month-old son. Vanessa Hudgens is soarin’, flyin’ with joy in new pics of her baby bump. The High School Musical alum showed off her glow while attending a friend’s wedding in Italy…
Cuban prisoners forced to work making cigars and charcoal for export to Europe, report claims
Madrid-based NGO estimates at least 60,000 inmates subject to forced labour with little or no pay in Cuban jails Prisoners in Cuba are forced to work producing the country’s world-famous cigars and marabu charcoal sold to European consumers, according to a new report. The Madrid-based NGO Prisoners Defenders estimates that at least 60,000 people are…
Constance Marten and Mark Gordon jailed for 14 years over baby’s death
A couple have been jailed for 14 years for the gross negligence manslaughter of their newborn daughter when they went on the run with her to avoid dealing with social services. Constance Marten, 38, and Mark Gordon, 51, were sentenced on Monday after being found guilty in July following a lengthy retrial at the Old…
Trump says military carried out strike on alleged Venezuelan drug cartel vessel
US president says three men were killed in the strike, adding that it occurred in international waters US politics live – latest updates Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States had carried out a strike on a second Venezuelan boat and killed three alleged terrorists he claimed were transporting drugs, expanding his administration’s…
5 new members added to CDC vaccine advisory panel ahead of key meeting
Pien Huang Just days before vaccine advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention meet to weigh who should get COVID vaccines this season, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has selected five more members to the committee he purged of Biden administration appointees in June. The new members of the influential Advisory Committee…
Two men found guilty of witchcraft plot to kill Zambia’s president
Conviction comes as Hakainde Hichilema faces growing criticism for suppressing political opposition Two men have been convicted in Zambia of planning to use witchcraft to kill the president, Hakainde Hichilema. Leonard Phiri, a village chief, and Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, a Mozambican citizen, were arrested in December after a cleaner reported hearing strange noises. Authorities said…
Mondays Really Are More Stressful on the Brain and Body
Mondays Really Are More Stressful on the Brain and Body By Tarani Chandola & Benjamin Becker edited by Daisy Yuhas For decades the term “Monday blues” has been shorthand for the collective groan that greets the start of each workweek. It’s also well documented in medical statistics. Mondays come with higher rates of anxiety, stress…
News spotlight: Deforestation linked to dramatic decline in Amazon rainfall
The Amazon rainforest, known for lush green canopies and an abundance of freshwater, is drying out. Deforestation is largely to blame, according to a new study. The study, published in Nature Communications, found that roughly 75 percent of the drop in rainfall can be directly linked to deforestation, Sachi Kitajima Mulkey reported for The New…
PM says he would never have appointed Mandelson had he known full Epstein links
Sir Keir Starmer has said he would “never” have appointed Peter Mandelson as his ambassador to the US if he had known the full details of his relationship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. In his first comments since sacking Lord Mandelson, Sir Keir said the Labour peer went through a proper due diligence process before…
Stanley Tucci to Cover 2026 Winter Olympics in the Most Fitting Way
Stanley Tucci is heading to Italy in February to help NBC cover the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games like only he could. Stanley Tucci is saying “ciao” to the Olympics. The Devil Wears Prada star will be heading to Italy next year to help NBC cover the 2026 Milan-Cortina winter games, the Emmy-winning actor announced on…
Officials announce a ‘framework’ for keeping TikTok online in the U.S.
John Ruwitch U.S. officials say they have reached a “framework” for a deal with China over the fate of the hugely popular short-video platform TikTok, an apparent breakthrough in the multi-year standoff over the ban against the Chinese-owned app. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the news after two days of talks with Chinese officials in…
A Utah church embarks on a healing journey in the aftermath of the Kirk assassination
Marisa Peñaloza OREM, Utah — On a beautiful Sunday, under sunny skies and a light breeze, people gathered at CenterPoint church for the first Sunday services since conservative activist Charlie Kirk was killed during a speaking event at nearby Utah Valley University. Inside the evangelical church, the air felt heavy. A 10-member band sang “Firm…
Starmer facing leadership questions after Mandelson sacking
Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure from within the Labour party over his handling of the sacking of the US ambassador Peter Mandelson. Labour MPs are expressing public and private frustration with the prime minister’s leadership, as he prepares to welcome US President Donald Trump on a state visit this week. Lord Mandelson was…
Where Prince Harry & Prince William Stand After Years-Long Feud
Prince Harry reunited with his father King Charles III for the first time in 19 months, but what does it mean for his ongoing estrangement from brother Prince William? Prince Harry only had one momentous family reunion during his latest trip to the U.K. After having a not-quite-hour-long tea with King Charles III at Clarence House…
Chinese economy weakens as consumer spending and factory output slows
Economists split on need for new Beijing stimulus amid headwinds from Trump tariffs and crisis-hit property sector Business live – latest updates China’s economy showed further signs of weakness last month, with important data revealing factory output and consumption rising at their weakest pace for about a year. The disappointing data adds pressure on Beijing…
Ted Danson, Mary Steenburgen Win Hearts With Emmys Acceptance Speech
Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen—who have been married for almost 30 years—received the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award during the Emmys 2025 at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater. Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen are in a good place at the Emmys 2025. After being honored with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award at the Sept. 14 ceremony, the…
‘The Book of Stolen Dreams:’ A Book Review
I’m sure my mind is playing tricks on me. I definitely remember reviewing The Secret of the Blood Key by David Farr, but as I look back through my GeekDad posts, it doesn’t seem to be there. What’s weird about this, is that Secret of the Blood Key is the second book of a series,…
Madeleine McCann suspect turns down Met Police interview
The prime suspect in the high-profile case of Madeleine McCann’s disappearance has declined to be interviewed by the Metropolitan Police, the force has said. The Met said an international letter of request was sent to Christian Brückner, ahead of his imminent release for a separate offence, for him to speak with them which he later…
Trump insists foreign workers are ‘welcome’ days after arrest of hundreds of South Koreans
US president says he doesn’t want to ‘disincentivize investment’ after images of workers chained and handcuffed caused widespread alarm in South Korea President Donald Trump has said foreign workers sent to the United States are “welcome” and he doesn’t want to “frighten off” investors, 10 days after hundreds of South Koreans were arrested at a…
Viruses in the Gut Protect Us and Change with Age and Diet
Little-Known ‘Gut Virome’ Protects Us—And Changes throughout Our Lives A new review study examines the “gut virome”: the microbiome’s mysterious viral population By Kate Graham-Shaw edited by Sarah Lewin Frasier Join Our Community of Science Lovers! Viruses have an understandably bad reputation. But deep in our digestive system, a lot of them are quietly working…
Bobby Hart, who co-wrote ‘Last Train to Clarksville’ and other Monkees hits, dies
By The Associated Press NEW YORK — Bobby Hart, a key part of the Monkees’ multimedia empire who teamed with Tommy Boyce on such hits as “Last Train to Clarksville” and “I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone,” has died. He was 86. Hart died at his home in Los Angeles, according to his friend and co-author,…
What to Know About Malawi’s Presidential Election
The decision by the country’s top court to overturn the last presidential race was hailed as a victory for democracy. But there are fears corruption will taint the vote on Tuesday. By Golden Matonga and Zimasa Matiwane Golden Matonga reported from Lilongwe, Malawi, and Zimasa Matiwane from Johannesburg. Malawi’s last presidential election five years ago…
Charlie Kirk murder suspect set to face aggravated murder charge in Utah
By Joe Hernandez , Bobby Allyn Utah prosecutors have booked the suspect accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk on an aggravated murder charge. Tyler Robinson was also arrested on charges of obstruction of justice and the felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, authorities said. The 22-year-old Utah resident has been detained…
Crafting with Caydo
Caydo sent me some of their products to see if they would scratch my crafting ADHD itch. I’ve used a variety of kits that claim to have everything you need, only to have to run to the store after a single project. Let’s see how they did. Amazon Price: $16 Diamond art is not something…
Emmys 2025 Winners: Full List (Live Updates)
See which TV shows and actors won big at the 2025 Emmy Awards ceremony, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, on Sept. 14. And the Emmy goes to… The 2025 Emmy Awards are just hours away from kicking off on Sunday, Sept. 14, meaning your favorite television actors and creators are about to come together to…
RFK Jr.’s MAHA report on children’s health leaves something out: nicotine
Yuki Noguchi Frances Daniels, a Baltimore mother of three, read the Trump administration’s 20-page report called “Make Our Children Healthy Again,” and noticed some notable words were missing from it: “Smoking” and “nicotine.” The word “tobacco” is mentioned once in the document, in a reference to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. “I was…
What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes and Way to Get Tested
Alpha-Gal Syndrome Explained: The Tick-Borne Allergy Affecting Diets Worldwide A single tick bite can trigger a bizarre meat allergy—here’s how alpha-gal syndrome is reshaping people’s diets. By Rachel Feltman, Fonda Mwangi & Alex Sugiura Rachel Feltman: For Scientific American’s Science Quickly, I’m Rachel Feltman. Imagine suddenly becoming allergic to a hamburger—or a steak or bacon…
‘Hatton was the people’s champion who fought with every part of his soul’
Ricky Hatton made his professional boxing debut in 1997 Ricky Hatton was remembered as a “warrior” who became the “people’s champion” as boxing legends and sporting greats paid tribute following the fighter’s death at the age of 46. Former world champion Hatton’s body was found at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester on Sunday and…
Chinese carmakers told to improve locking devices for UK market
UK insurers require critical modifications for sale in country with higher levels of car theft than China British authorities may have certain concerns about the cyber-spying threat from vehicles made in China, but it turns out the country’s manufacturers have security worries of their own. Insurers have told Chinese carmakers they need critical modifications for…
Mandelson should never have been ambassador, says Epstein victim’s family
The family of Virginia Giuffre, who became the most prominent victim of Jeffrey Epstein, has told the BBC that Lord Mandelson should never have been given the position of UK ambassador to the United States. In an exclusive interview on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Virginia’s brother Sky Roberts said the appointment “speaks to how deep…
Autism Has No Single Cause, Research Shows
Autism Has No Single Cause. Here’s How We Know Scientists will not find a simple answer to how autism arises, despite Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s promise to announce its causes sometime this month. Here’s what makes the condition so staggeringly complex By Allison Parshall edited by Dean Visser Soon after psychiatrist Leo Kanner first identified…
Emmys 2005: What the Award Show Looked Like 20 Years Ago
Nate Bargatze will host the 2025 Emmys on Sept. 14. But 20 years ago, it was Ellen DeGeneres who was doing the honors while Felicity Huffman, William Shatner and Lost were among the big winners. TV watchers, get your couch cushions ready: It’s almost time for the 2025 Emmys. The 77th Emmy Awards will broadcast…
Trump administration launches trial program to fast-track electric air taxis
By Chandelis Duster The Department of Transportation on Friday said the Federal Aviation Administration’s Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Integration Pilot Program (eIPP) will develop “new frameworks and regulations for enabling safe operations” and form partnerships with private sector companies as well as with state and local governments. The program will include at least five…
Brazilian musician identified as victim of 1976 killing by Argentina military
The bossa nova pianist Francisco Tenório Cerqueira Júnior went out for cigarettes after a concert in Buenos Aires – a forensic team has finally revealed his fate Early on 18 March 1976, Francisco Tenório Cerqueira Júnior, a Brazilian pianist who had played alongside some of Latin America’s greatest musicians, disappeared from the streets of Buenos…
Mexican congressional staffer resigns after TV comments about Charlie Kirk
A congressional staffer from Mexico’s ruling party has resigned after being called out online for comments he made on a major Mexican television news program about Turning Point USA executive director Charlie Kirk’s murder. The episode that unfolded at Milenio continued a trend of people losing their jobs over commentary about Kirk – a self-proclaimed…
‘We knew the family’: Utah town in disbelief after neighbour accused of killing Charlie Kirk
Washington, Utah, located just southwest of Zion National Park, is surrounded by cinematic mesas and has long been a hub for exploring the natural wonders of the American west. Yet the last 48 hours have left residents wondering how the portal to the most beautiful parts of the country may have produced one of its…
Early Experiments Show Fast-Acting Antidote Targets Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Early Experiments Show Fast-Acting Antidote Targets Carbon Monoxide Poisoning A study in mice and on human blood uses a new protein to snag carbon monoxide before it latches onto blood cells By Sara Novak edited by Sarah Lewin Frasier A new antidote is designed to rapidly address carbon monoxide poisoning. Join Our Community of Science…
Over 100,000 attend London rally organized by far-right activist, clashes break out
By The Associated Press LONDON — A London march organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson drew more than 110,000 people and became unruly on Saturday as a small group of his supporters clashed with police officers who were separating them from counterprotesters. Several officers were punched, kicked and struck by bottles tossed by people at…
Cardi B’s Daughter Kulture Is Her Mini-Me at New York Fashion Week
Cardi B and Offset’s 7-year-old daughter Kulture stole the spotlight as she and the “Up” rapper sat front row at Alexander Wang’s Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear Fashion Show wearing matching fur ensembles. Cardi B’s daughter Kulture is stealing the spotlight during New York Fashion Week. Indeed, the “I Like It” rapper and her 7-year-old daughter were…
Daniel Yon Explains Why Your Brain Is a Brilliant Illusionist
How Your Brain Constructs—And Sometimes Distorts—Your Experience of the World In his new book, Daniel Yon explains how our brain is constantly constructing reality By Rachel Feltman, Fonda Mwangi & Alex Sugiura Rachel Feltman: For Scientific American’s Science Quickly, I’m Rachel Feltman. You probably think you’re listening to my voice right now. But what if…
Thousands join Tommy Robinson rally, as counter-protesters demonstrate
More than 100,000 people have joined a march in central London organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, with a counter-protest by anti-racism campaigners also taking place. Protesters forming the “Unite the Kingdom” rally have gathered in Whitehall where they are hearing a series of speeches from people including Donald Trump’s former strategist Steve Bannon. The…
Scientists Map Nightlife and Communication of NYC Rats to Help Urban Planning and Pest Control
New York City’s Rats Have a Secret Nightlife—And a Language Humans Can’t Hear A new preprint field study reveals that New York City’s rats aren’t just survivors—they’re talkative city dwellers with their own hidden nightlife. Mapping their movements and conversations could offer insights to transform urban planning and pest control By Deni Ellis Béchard edited…
Jessica Simpson Makes Rare Comment About Ex Tony Romo
More than 15 years after Jessica Simpson and Tony Romo called it quits, the “With You” singer shared rare insight into a recent interaction her mom Tina had with the former Cowboys quarterback. Jessica Simpson knows that some love isn’t meant to last forever. Over a decade after she and Tony Romo officially called it…
South Korea outraged at 300 workers treated as ‘prisoners of war’ in US raid
As Hyundai-LG workers fly home after visa ordeal, Koreans bristle at ‘humiliation’ and sense of betrayal by Seoul’s ally More than 300 South Korean workers arrived at Incheon international airport on Friday afternoon, ending a week-long ordeal that began with the US Department of Homeland Security’s largest ever single-site raid by Immigration and Customs Enforcement…
Utah residents are reeling knowing the Charlie Kirk suspect is one of their own
By Marisa Peñaloza , David Condos UTAH – The arrest of Tyler Robinson sent shockwaves through the small community where his family lives. Washington, a city of around 30,000, sits next to St. George in Utah’s southwest corner. It’s a 3 ½-hour drive from the Utah Valley University campus. The 22-year-old is the suspect in…
North Korea executes citizens who distribute foreign TV shows, UN finds
Human rights report highlights crackdown on personal freedoms in most restrictive country in the world North Korea has executed people for distributing foreign television shows, including popular South Korean dramas, as part of an intensifying crackdown on personal freedoms, according to a UN human rights report. The curbs make North Korea the most restrictive country…
NASA’s JWST Hunts Dark Matter in Stunning Image of Bullet Cluster
The UniverseFridays Mesmerizing New JWST Image Sharpens Our View of Dark Matter’s Intergalactic Playground A swarm of galaxies called the Bullet Cluster is the biggest, best natural laboratory for studying dark matter that astronomers have ever seen By Phil Plait edited by Lee Billings The Bullet Cluster as seen by the James Webb Space Telescope…