An Animated Energy Primer With Climate School Dean Alexis Abramson

This week's science news is a wild mix of cosmic threats and ancient mysteries. Researchers warn about swarms of "city-killer" asteroids lurking in our solar system—some big enough to wipe out entire urban areas if they hit Earth. On a lighter note, archaeologists uncovered the remarkably preserved remains of a Bronze Age toddler, nicknamed the "Ice Prince," buried with ornate artifacts that hint at a high-status burial.

Editor’s Note: The asteroid story is a sobering reminder that space isn't just pretty stars—it's also home to real dangers we're still learning to track. Meanwhile, the "Ice Prince" discovery gives us a touching glimpse into how ancient societies honored their young, proving that some human emotions transcend time. Both stories highlight how science helps us understand both the risks and the richness of our world.

Scientists are exploring whether mRNA technology—the same breakthrough used in COVID-19 vaccines—could be repurposed to target and eliminate HIV. Early research suggests it might help train the immune system to recognize and destroy the virus, offering hope for a long-elusive cure or better treatments.

Editor’s Note: HIV has been one of medicine’s toughest foes, with no cure despite decades of research. If mRNA can crack this puzzle, it’d be a game-changer—not just for HIV patients but for proving how adaptable this tech really is. It’s still early days, but the idea that the same tool that fought COVID might tackle another global scourge is pretty exciting.

A live TV show in Chile was suddenly interrupted when a 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit, visibly shaking cameras and equipment in the studio. The dramatic moment was caught on air, showing the immediate impact of the quake.

Editor’s Note: Earthquakes are a frequent reality in Chile, but seeing one disrupt live TV drives home how sudden and unsettling these events can be. It’s a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity—and how everyday life can be upended in seconds.

Ketamine, once known mainly as an anesthetic or party drug, is now gaining attention for its potential mental health benefits—but it’s not without risks. This article breaks down what science says about its effects, from promising depression treatment to concerns about misuse and side effects. Think of it as a double-edged sword: it could be life-changing for some, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Editor’s Note: Ketamine’s evolving role in medicine and recreation makes this a story worth watching. For people struggling with treatment-resistant depression, it might offer hope where other drugs have failed. But its rising popularity also raises questions about safety, regulation, and accessibility. Whether you’re curious about new therapies or wary of hype, this is a conversation that’s only getting louder.

Even if the federal government can't easily cut ties with Elon Musk's companies due to their critical role in national defense and space exploration, President Trump still has ways to make life harder for the tech mogul. Think tighter regulations or increased scrutiny—tools that could squeeze Musk without outright canceling contracts like those SpaceX holds with the Pentagon.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about Musk or Trump—it’s a peek into how much power the government holds over even the biggest private players when their work overlaps with national interests. If tensions escalate, it could set a precedent for how administrations handle influential tech leaders who operate in high-stakes sectors.