Huge galaxy cluster is wrapped in a cocoon 20 million light-years wide, NASA space telescope finds

South Africa had become a leader in cutting-edge medical research, particularly in HIV and tuberculosis, thanks to years of investment and collaboration. But recent funding cuts by the Trump administration—slashing nearly $50 million in U.S. support—have gutted critical programs, shuttered labs, and left scientists scrambling. The damage threatens not just South Africa’s progress but global health efforts, especially in fighting diseases that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

The inspiring documentary "SALLY"—chronicling the trailblazing journey of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space—is now available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu. The award-winning film dives into her groundbreaking career, personal life, and enduring legacy, offering a fresh look at a pivotal figure in space exploration.

Editor’s Note: Sally Ride's story isn’t just about space—it’s about shattering ceilings and redefining what’s possible. With women still underrepresented in STEM fields today, revisiting her achievements feels especially timely. Plus, streaming makes her story more accessible than ever, perfect for sparking curiosity in the next generation of explorers.

China just took a big step toward its moon ambitions by successfully testing a safety system for its next-gen astronaut capsule, the Mengzhou. The "pad-abort test" simulates an emergency escape during launch—think of it as a spacecraft eject button—and nailing it means future crews have a better shot at surviving a worst-case scenario. There’s even video proof of the capsule’s escape rockets firing as planned.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a technical win for China’s space program; it’s a signal they’re serious about landing astronauts on the moon by 2030. With the U.S. and others also racing back to the lunar surface, these milestones matter—they show who’s got the tech (and the grit) to turn space dreams into reality. Plus, every successful safety test makes space travel a little less risky for everyone.

Even when you can't consciously recall a memory, your brain is still quietly using it to steer your decisions. New research suggests that hidden traces of forgotten experiences light up memory-related brain activity, subtly shaping your behavior without you realizing it.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just a quirky brain fact—it could change how we think about everything from marketing to therapy. If forgotten memories still pull our strings, understanding that hidden influence might help us make better choices or even uncover why we act in ways we can't explain. It’s a reminder that our brains work in ways we’re often completely unaware of.

Turns out octopuses are even more fascinating than we thought—their arms aren’t just for grabbing snacks or solving puzzles. Researchers found that these clever cephalopods use their limbs like tiny environmental sensors, sampling the microbial world around them. It’s like each arm has its own built-in lab, testing the microscopic life on surfaces they touch. Who needs a microscope when you’ve got eight smart limbs?