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NASA's BaDASS Mission Launches to Study Black Auroras from Poker Flat

NASA's BaDASS Mission Launches to Study Black Auroras from Poker Flat

NASA has launched a second sounding rocket from the Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska as part of the Black and Diffuse Aurora Science Surveyor (BaDASS) mission. This mission, led by Marilia Samara from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, aims to study black auroras, a phenomenon where auroral particles thin or shut off, creating dark shapes within the aurora. The launch is part of a series of missions from Poker Flat, which is operated by the University of Alaska Fairbanks under a contract with NASA. The mission follows a previous launch and precedes another scheduled mission to study ionospheric disturbances.

Schools Urged to Restore Civic Engagement Amid Decline in Civil Society

Schools Urged to Restore Civic Engagement Amid Decline in Civil Society

Rick Hess and Ashley Berner discuss the decline of civil society and its impact on education in a blog post for Education Week. They highlight the importance of schools in fostering civic engagement and community involvement. The discussion emphasizes the role of educational pluralism in supporting democratic life and the potential of new school models to expand civil society. The authors argue that schools with clear missions and values are more effective in producing community-engaged adults. They also explore the role of educational philanthropies and civic-building nonprofits in strengthening local communities.

Japan's Nikkei 225 Reaches Record High Amid Post-Election Rally

Japan's Nikkei 225 Reaches Record High Amid Post-Election Rally

Japan's Nikkei 225 index has reached new record highs following a post-election rally, driven by the 'Takaichi trade' after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's landslide victory in the Lower House. The index rose by 2.28% to close at 57,650.54, while the Topix index also saw gains, closing at a record 3,855.28. This surge is part of a broader rise in Asian markets, with South Korea's Kospi and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 also experiencing gains. The rally is attributed to investor confidence in the new government's economic policies. Additionally, shares of Softbank Group Corp saw a significant increase, closing with a 10.68% gain after an upgrade in its financial forecasts.

October 7 Attack Reshapes Jewish Philanthropy, Shifts Focus to Israel

October 7 Attack Reshapes Jewish Philanthropy, Shifts Focus to Israel

The October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel has led to a significant shift in Jewish philanthropy worldwide, with a focus on Israel-centric initiatives. Jewish organizations, which initially responded with emergency campaigns, have now transitioned to long-term Israel-focused frameworks. This shift has resulted in a 'mission drift,' where organizations that previously addressed diverse issues like poverty and mental health are now concentrating on Israel-related causes. The change has led to funding challenges for organizations that continue to focus on broader humanitarian efforts, as donor priorities have shifted towards supporting Israel.

Study Reveals Obesity Increases Risk of Severe Infections by 70%

Study Reveals Obesity Increases Risk of Severe Infections by 70%

A study published in The Lancet has found that individuals with obesity are 70% more likely to be hospitalized or die from infections compared to those with a healthy BMI. The research, involving over 500,000 participants, highlights that obesity significantly raises the risk of severe illness from infectious diseases such as flu, pneumonia, and Covid-19. The study suggests that obesity may weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. The findings call for urgent policy measures to support weight loss and promote healthy lifestyles.

Illinois Bill Aims to Empower Young Voters Through High School Registration

Illinois Bill Aims to Empower Young Voters Through High School Registration

State Representative Kimberly Du Buclet has introduced HB4339, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law, in Illinois. This legislation mandates that high schools offer students a voluntary, nonpartisan opportunity to register to vote. The bill aims to address structural barriers that prevent young people from participating in elections, such as registration deadlines and confusing rules. By facilitating early voter registration, the bill seeks to normalize civic engagement among young people and ensure they are not excluded from the democratic process.

Tom Hiddleston: A Journey Through Theater

Tom Hiddleston: A Journey Through Theater

Before becoming a household name in film, Tom Hiddleston made significant contributions to the world of theater. His stage performances have been l...

Analilia Mejia Wins New Jersey Democratic Primary, Defeating Tom Malinowski

Analilia Mejia Wins New Jersey Democratic Primary, Defeating Tom Malinowski

Analilia Mejia has emerged victorious in the New Jersey Democratic primary, defeating former congressman Tom Malinowski. The primary was held to fill the congressional seat left vacant by Mikie Sherrill, who resigned to become governor. Mejia, a former aide to Senator Bernie Sanders, secured the win with support from high-profile progressives like Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Despite Malinowski's initial lead and financial advantage, Mejia's campaign gained momentum, leading to her victory. She will now face Republican Joe Hathaway in the special general election on April 16.

The Third Reconstruction Initiative Aims to Address Racial Justice and Economic Power

The Third Reconstruction Initiative Aims to Address Racial Justice and Economic Power

A series titled 'Toward a Third Reconstruction' has been published by Dēmos and Nonprofit Quarterly, featuring insights from nine experts and leaders. The series explores the need for a new societal framework that addresses racial justice, economic power, and democratic reform. The initiative draws inspiration from historical movements like the Civil Rights Movement and aims to confront white supremacy and authoritarianism. The series emphasizes the importance of building economic power and reforming democracy to achieve a vision of a 'Beloved Community,' as envisioned by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Truth, Repair, and Transformation process is highlighted as a model for rethinking philanthropy and addressing economic disparities.

U.S. Faces Decline in International Travel Interest Due to Policy Changes

U.S. Faces Decline in International Travel Interest Due to Policy Changes

Recent findings from The State of the International Traveler Study by Future Partners indicate a decline in global interest and intent to visit the United States. Historically a top destination, the U.S. is now experiencing a drop in its appeal among international travelers. This trend is attributed to evolving traveler preferences and policy changes that have introduced new barriers. Key factors include increased National Park fees for foreign visitors, social media screening requirements, and a new $250 visa integrity fee for travelers from non-Visa Waiver Program countries. These measures have contributed to a perception of increased friction and cost, making the U.S. less attractive compared to destinations that are perceived as more accessible.

National Organization for Rare Disorders Highlights State Disparities in Rare Disease Care

National Organization for Rare Disorders Highlights State Disparities in Rare Disease Care

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has released its 2025 State Report Card, evaluating all 50 states and Washington, D.C. on policies affecting over 30 million Americans with rare diseases. The report indicates that while there have been improvements in telehealth and prescription affordability, significant gaps remain in ensuring timely access to life-sustaining care. The nation received a 'B' grade overall, but this average conceals wide disparities among states. Key findings include poor medical nutrition coverage, with 13 states failing, and inadequate protection against short-term insurance plans in 22 states. Only four states received an 'A' grade, highlighting the uneven protection landscape.

Greensboro Unveils New Public Art Sculpture 'May-Bee and the Bot'

Greensboro Unveils New Public Art Sculpture 'May-Bee and the Bot'

A new public art installation titled 'May-Bee and the Bot (In the Uncanny Valley)' has been unveiled in Greensboro, North Carolina. The 28-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture, created by Portland-based artist and engineer Pete Beeman, is located along the Downtown Greenway at West Market Street. The sculpture features a kneeling robot, known as Bot, with a large honey bee perched on its head. Visitors can interact with the sculpture by turning a hand crank on Bot's leg, which causes the bee's wings to flutter. The artwork is designed to symbolize the intersection of nature and technology, with the honeybee representing the natural world and the robot symbolizing technological advancements and the future of artificial intelligence. The installation is illuminated for viewing both day and night and was funded by The Cemala Foundation and other contributors.

Michael B. Jordan: A Journey Through Iconic Roles

Michael B. Jordan: A Journey Through Iconic Roles

Jordan has captivated audiences with his powerful performances and diverse range of roles. From television to the big screen, Jordan has consistent...

‘Come fight me’: Shakur Stevenson challenges Ilia Topuria to boxing match

‘Come fight me’: Shakur Stevenson challenges Ilia Topuria to boxing match

Shakur Stevenson challenges Ilia Topuria to a boxing match.

‘The division’s on standstill. It’s crazy!’: Joaquin Buckley rips state of welterweight matchmaking

‘The division’s on standstill. It’s crazy!’: Joaquin Buckley rips state of welterweight matchmaking

Joaquin Buckley wants to see more movement in the UFC’s welterweight division.

NFL free agency 2026: NY Giants’ DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches has uncertain future

NFL free agency 2026: NY Giants’ DT Rakeem Nunez-Roches has uncertain future

Is the veteran defensive tackle part of the solution, or part of the problem?

The Rise of Michael B. Jordan: From Child Actor to Hollywood Star

The Rise of Michael B. Jordan: From Child Actor to Hollywood Star

Jordan has become a household name in Hollywood, known for his compelling performances in blockbuster films and critically acclaimed dramas. Born o...

Israel's FINQ launches US ETFs managed solely by AI

Israel's FINQ launches US ETFs managed solely by AI

By Steven Scheer and Suzanne McGee TEL AVIV/PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island, Feb 10 (Reuters) - Israel fund manager FINQ said on Tuesday it was entering the U.S.

Patriots' Will Campbell sorry for Super Bowl media snub

Patriots' Will Campbell sorry for Super Bowl media snub

New England Patriots rookie left tackle Will Campbell apologized to the media on Tuesday, two days after he skipped out on reporters following the team's loss in Super Bowl LX.

US used mobile launchers for missiles at Qatar base as Iran tensions rose, satellite pictures show

US used mobile launchers for missiles at Qatar base as Iran tensions rose, satellite pictures show

By Marine Delrue Feb 10 (Reuters) - U.S. forces in Qatar's al-Udeid, the biggest U.S. base in the Middle East, put missiles into truck launchers as tensions with Iran ratcheted up since January, analysis of satellite images showed, meaning they could be moved more quickly.