The Covid ‘lab leak’ theory isn’t just a rightwing conspiracy – pretending that’s the case is bad for science | Jane Qiu

Ever wondered where atoms—the tiny particles that make up everything around us—actually come from? A physicist breaks it down, explaining how these fundamental building blocks were forged in the cosmic fires of stars and the explosive chaos of the early universe. It’s a mind-bending journey from the Big Bang to the elements in your coffee cup.

Editor’s Note: Atoms are the invisible scaffolding of our world, but their origins are anything but ordinary. Understanding where they come from isn’t just trivia—it connects us to the universe’s grand story, from stardust to life itself. Plus, it makes you appreciate that your body is literally made of exploded star stuff. How cool is that?

Scientists have identified a completely new blood type—but here’s the twist: so far, it’s only been found in one woman from Guadeloupe. Researchers say her blood is so unique that, theoretically, she’s the only person in the world who could donate to or receive blood from herself. Now, they’re on the hunt to see if anyone else shares this rare trait.

Editor’s Note: Blood types aren’t just about A, B, or O—this discovery highlights how incredibly diverse human biology can be. While it’s fascinating science, it also raises practical questions: What happens if this woman needs a transfusion? Could there be others with the same blood type out there? Stories like this remind us how much we still don’t know—and why medical research keeps digging deeper.

Three countries—India, Poland, and Hungary—just marked a major milestone by sending astronauts to space for the first time in decades. They hitched a ride on Axiom Mission 4, a US commercial flight, which launched early Wednesday from Florida. The crew, led by a US commander, soared to the International Space Station in SpaceX’s shiny new Crew Dragon capsule. It’s a big moment, especially for nations that haven’t had a presence in space for years.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another routine ISS trip—it’s a comeback story. For India, Poland, and Hungary, sending astronauts after such a long gap signals renewed ambition in space. It also highlights how commercial spaceflight (thanks to companies like Axiom and SpaceX) is opening doors for more countries to join the cosmic club. In a world where space is becoming more crowded and competitive, missions like this could reshape who gets a seat at the table.

Astronauts aboard SpaceX's final Dragon crew capsule gave it a fitting name—"Grace"—as it soared into orbit for the first time. The reveal came from Ax-4 mission commander Peggy Whitson, adding a personal touch to the spacecraft's historic flight.

Editor’s Note: Naming a spacecraft might seem like a small gesture, but it humanizes the tech-heavy world of space travel. "Grace" marks the end of an era for SpaceX's Dragon capsules, which have been pivotal in ferrying astronauts to orbit. It’s a nod to both the elegance of engineering and the people who make these missions possible. Plus, it’s a cool bit of trivia for space fans.

A small soccer team in Vermont is scoring big—not just on the field, but for the environment too. The Vermont Green Football Club has become a local sensation by blending sports with sustainability, from eco-friendly practices to community activism. Oh, and they sweeten the deal with free ice cream, which might explain why their games keep selling out.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another feel-good story—it’s proof that sports can be a powerful platform for change. While most teams focus on wins and losses, Vermont Green is tackling climate action and community engagement, showing how small-scale initiatives can inspire bigger movements. Plus, who doesn’t love a team that pairs goals with gelato?