Seeing 'fireworks' on Earth from space | On the ISS this week June 26 - July 4, 2025

Ever wondered what’s happening beneath the waves just off Miami’s coast? Marine biologist Colin Foord gives us the scoop on the Coral City Camera, a livestream that brings the hidden world of urban coral reefs to your screen. He talks about why these reefs matter, how they’re surviving (or struggling) in an unlikely city setting, and what everyday viewers can learn from tuning in.

Editor’s Note: Most people think of coral reefs as distant, pristine ecosystems—but this story flips that idea on its head. Miami’s reefs are thriving (or at least hanging on) right under the noses of a bustling city, and Foord’s livestream makes their story accessible to anyone. It’s a cool reminder that nature isn’t just “out there” somewhere—it’s often right beside us, even in unexpected places. Plus, the project turns science into something anyone can engage with, no scuba gear required.

Seoul is dealing with an unexpected and unwelcome guest—lovebugs. These tiny insects have swarmed the city in massive numbers, clinging to buildings, cars, and even people, much to the annoyance of residents. While harmless, their sheer volume has turned sidewalks into bug-covered walkways, sparking frustration and memes alike.

Editor’s Note: Lovebug swarms might not be dangerous, but they’re a messy nuisance—and a reminder of how climate shifts or seasonal changes can disrupt urban life in unexpected ways. For Seoulites, it’s less about romance and more about the hassle of scraping bugs off everything.

Scientists have figured out a way to turn human urine into something surprisingly useful—materials that could be used for medical implants or even construction. Yep, you read that right. By chemically tweaking pee, they’ve created a process that might one day help build safer implants or eco-friendly materials.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a weird science headline—it’s a potential game-changer. If urine can be repurposed into medical-grade materials, it could reduce reliance on synthetic or expensive alternatives, making healthcare more sustainable and affordable. Plus, it’s a clever way to recycle something we usually just flush away. Win-win.

Early risers are in for a celestial treat on July 5—the dazzling Pleiades star cluster will appear alongside Venus in the predawn sky, with Uranus making a cameo for those with sharp eyes (or a telescope).

Editor’s Note: Stargazing moments like this are a reminder of how accessible (and awe-inspiring) the cosmos can be. No fancy gear needed—just a clear sky and a little enthusiasm. It’s a chance to pause and look up, something we don’t do often enough.

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden tools in East Asia—dating back a staggering 300,000 years—and they tell a fascinating story. These artifacts reveal that early humans weren’t just improvising; they were carefully crafting tools for specific tasks, like digging up edible plants, and deliberately traveling to lakeshores to forage. It’s a glimpse into how resourceful and intentional our ancient ancestors were.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about old sticks—it’s about rewriting our understanding of early human behavior. The fact that these tools were designed for a purpose and used in planned trips suggests a level of foresight and problem-solving we might not have fully appreciated before. It also hints at how deeply connected early humans were to their environment, using what they had to survive and thrive. For anyone curious about human origins, this is a big deal.