Scientists Say They’ve Found a Dwarf Planet Very Far From the Sun

The European Space Agency (ESA) is gearing up to send a small spacecraft to land on Apophis, the notorious "doomsday" asteroid, when it makes a historically close flyby of Earth in 2029. NASA is also considering a mission to study the same asteroid, but budget constraints might hold them back.

Editor’s Note: Apophis has been a source of both scientific fascination and public anxiety since its discovery, with early fears that it might one day collide with Earth (though those worries have since been ruled out). Landing a probe on it during its 2029 flyby—when it’ll pass closer than some satellites—could give us unprecedented insights into asteroid composition and behavior. Plus, it’s a big step for planetary defense, helping us prepare for any future space rocks that might actually pose a threat. Cool science with real-world stakes!

Scientists, including meteorologists and climate researchers, are taking a stand against the Trump administration's budget cuts to weather and climate research by organizing a 100-hour livestream. The marathon broadcast is both a protest and an effort to educate the public on the importance of their work—basically, they're using science to defend science.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about funding—it's about the broader tension between science and politics. When researchers feel forced to go on a 100-hour PR blitz to justify their existence, it signals a worrying disconnect between policymakers and the experts who help us understand (and survive) things like extreme weather and climate change. The stakes here are real, and the scientists are making sure we notice.

This weekend, the European Space Agency (ESA) is doing something delightfully quirky—they’re transmitting a waltz composed by Johann Strauss II all the way to NASA’s Voyager 1 probe, which is currently cruising through interstellar space. It’s a dual celebration: marking ESA’s 50th anniversary and honoring Strauss’s 200th birthday. Think of it as a cosmic birthday card mixed with a nod to human creativity.

Editor’s Note: Beyond the charm of sending music into the void, this story highlights how space agencies blend science with culture. It’s a reminder that space isn’t just about data and machinery—it’s also a canvas for human expression. Plus, it’s a fun way to celebrate milestones while bridging the gap between art and astrophysics. Who wouldn’t love a waltz among the stars?

A metal detectorist in the UK struck gold—literally—when they unearthed a rare 17th-century mourning ring engraved with a skull and a date, likely marking someone's death. The finder described doing "a bit of a dance" after the discovery in a Norfolk field, which experts say offers a poignant glimpse into historical grief rituals.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just a shiny trinket—it's a tangible connection to how people memorialized loved ones centuries ago. Finds like this help historians piece together personal stories from the past, and for detectorists, it’s a thrilling reminder that history can turn up underfoot (and make you dance in a field).

A guy in Illinois, Mike Kellner, has been quietly working on an incredible passion project for four decades: restoring a WWII B-17 bomber—nicknamed the "Desert Rat"—in his barn. And he’s not just doing it for display; he actually plans to get this piece of history back in the air.

Editor’s Note: Stories like this remind us how deep passion and patience can bring history to life. Kellner’s dedication isn’t just about preserving a plane—it’s a personal mission to honor aviation history in the most thrilling way possible: by making it fly again. For history buffs and aviation geeks, it’s a heartwarming example of how one person’s obsession can keep the past alive.