Three cases of severe mpox reported in California, health officials say

Health experts are expressing concern over three cases of mpox in California that have resulted in severe illness, especially since none of the patients had traveled abroad, indicating local transmission of the Clade 1 variant. This situation raises alarms about the potential spread of the virus within communities and highlights the importance of vaccination and public health measures to prevent further outbreaks.

Recently, Santa Cruz has seen a resurgence of playful sea otters, particularly Otter 841, who have been stealing surfboards from unsuspecting surfers. This quirky behavior, reminiscent of past incidents, has sparked conversations about the interactions between wildlife and recreational activities. While it may be amusing to some, it highlights the need for awareness regarding marine life in popular surfing spots.

SpaceX has achieved a significant milestone by launching its 10,000th Starlink satellite into orbit, marking this as the 132nd Falcon 9 mission of the year. This accomplishment not only showcases SpaceX's rapid advancements in satellite technology but also highlights its commitment to expanding global internet access through the Starlink program. As the company continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and connectivity, this launch is a testament to its innovative spirit and operational efficiency.

The Millennium Seed Bank in Wakehurst, West Sussex, has been a vital player in conserving the planet's biodiversity for 25 years. As plant life faces increasing threats, this seed bank collects and stores seeds from around the world, ensuring they are available for future generations. In a recent podcast, Patrick Greenfield shares insights from his tour of the facility, detailing the meticulous process of seed preservation and highlighting how these efforts are already making a difference. This initiative is crucial not only for ecological balance but also for food security and climate resilience.

Eileen Collins, the first female commander of a spacecraft, shares her inspiring journey with the BBC. She emphasizes her determination to excel in a field traditionally dominated by men, aiming to prove that gender should not define capability. Collins' achievements not only pave the way for future female astronauts but also challenge stereotypes in the space industry, making her story significant for both women and aspiring astronauts everywhere.

NASA is looking for new ideas for moon landers as SpaceX falls behind schedule. This is significant because it opens the door for other companies like Blue Origin and Lockheed Martin to step in and potentially contribute to lunar exploration, which could accelerate the timeline for returning humans to the Moon.

A recent study warns that cuts in funding from wealthy nations to anti-malaria initiatives could lead to a catastrophic resurgence of the disease, potentially costing millions of lives and billions in economic losses by the end of the decade. This is particularly concerning as the fight against malaria is already challenged by factors like extreme weather and humanitarian crises, which increase exposure to the disease. The implications of these funding cuts are dire, highlighting the urgent need for sustained financial support to combat malaria effectively.

Get ready to sync your calendar with the cosmos! With the latest updates, you can now keep track of exciting astronomical events like rocket launches, meteor showers, and eclipses. This is not just about stargazing; it's about connecting with the universe and experiencing the wonders of space firsthand. The stunning images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope, including the barred spiral galaxy NGC 1512, remind us of the beauty and mystery that lies beyond our planet. Don't miss out on these celestial happenings!

George F. Smoot, a pivotal figure in cosmology who played a crucial role in confirming the Big Bang theory, has passed away at the age of 80. His groundbreaking work earned him a Nobel Prize in Physics, highlighting the significance of his contributions to our understanding of the universe's origins. Smoot's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and enthusiasts alike.