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Nasa names next astronauts for Artemis Moon programme

Nasa names next astronauts for Artemis Moon programme

Summary

NASA announced the crew for its Artemis III mission, planned for 2027. Instead of landing on the Moon, this mission will stay in low Earth orbit to test docking with lunar landers due to delays with SpaceX's Starship rocket needed for Moon landings.

Key Facts

  • Artemis III was initially planned as a crewed Moon landing but now will orbit Earth testing lunar lander dockings.
  • The crew includes commander Randy Bresnik, pilot Luca Parmitano, and mission specialists Andre Douglas and Frank Rubio.
  • Backup crew member Bob Heintz is a test pilot with significant space experience.
  • SpaceX’s Starship rocket, designed to carry astronauts from lunar orbit to the Moon surface, is delayed due to technology and refueling challenges.
  • The Starship must be refueled in Earth orbit, which has never been tested in space before.
  • Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a test, causing launchpad damage and delaying scheduled missions.
  • The Blue Moon cargo lander and Artemis 4 crewed lander launches face timeline uncertainty due to Blue Origin’s setback.
  • NASA aims for Artemis 3 in 2027 as a technology demo, Artemis 4 Moon landing by early 2028, followed by Artemis 5 for base building.
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Nasa has named the Artemis III crew - what is their mission?

Nasa has named the Artemis III crew - what is their mission?

Summary

NASA has chosen four astronauts for the Artemis III mission, planned for 2027. The crew will travel to low Earth orbit to practice docking with lunar landers but will not land on the Moon. The first Moon landing of the Artemis program is now scheduled for Artemis IV in 2028.

Key Facts

  • Artemis III will launch on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket from Florida.
  • The crew will fly inside the Orion capsule and stay in low Earth orbit about 290 miles above Earth.
  • They will dock with prototype lunar landers and test new spacesuits designed by Prada and built by Axiom Space.
  • The mission will last slightly longer than Artemis II’s nine days, including testing an upgraded heat shield on return.
  • NASA changed Artemis III’s mission because SpaceX’s Starship lander and its in-orbit refueling are not ready.
  • SpaceX’s refueling tech has made "limited progress" and may first be demonstrated in late 2026.
  • Artemis IV in 2028 will be the first crewed Moon landing of the Artemis program, targeting the Moon’s south pole.
  • Artemis V, also in 2028, will use Blue Origin’s Blue Moon lander to send more astronauts to the Moon.
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Wright says amount of oil through the Strait of Hormuz will ‘continue to rise’

Wright says amount of oil through the Strait of Hormuz will ‘continue to rise’

Summary

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said that more oil will move through the Strait of Hormuz as the U.S. and Iran work to end their conflict. He noted that the amount of oil passing through this important shipping route is already increasing significantly.

Key Facts

  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright made the comments on Tuesday.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key passage for oil shipping.
  • Wright said oil traffic through the strait is rising noticeably.
  • The increase is linked to efforts by the U.S. and Iran to end a conflict lasting over 100 days.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is important because a large share of the world’s oil passes through it.
  • Higher oil flow may indicate improving relations and stability in the region.
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Trump says U.S. must respond after Apache helicopter attack over Strait of Hormuz

Trump says U.S. must respond after Apache helicopter attack over Strait of Hormuz

Summary

President Donald Trump said on social media that the United States must respond after an Apache helicopter was attacked over the Strait of Hormuz. The incident raised tensions in a key international waterway.

Key Facts

  • An Apache helicopter was attacked over the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial channel for global oil transport.
  • President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. must respond to the attack.
  • The attack took place in a region known for geopolitical conflicts.
  • CBS News reported on the incident and President Trump’s reaction.
  • The situation may affect international security and shipping routes.
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Trump says Iran shot down U.S. Apache helicopter, crew rescued by sea drone

Trump says Iran shot down U.S. Apache helicopter, crew rescued by sea drone

Summary

President Donald Trump said that Iran shot down a U.S. Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. The two crew members were saved using a sea drone, marking the first time such a rescue method was used.

Key Facts

  • Iran shot down a U.S. Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The helicopter had two crew members on board.
  • Both crew members were rescued safely.
  • The rescue used a sea drone, which is an unmanned watercraft.
  • This was the first rescue mission involving a sea drone.
  • President Trump confirmed the incident and promised a response.
  • The event was reported by CBS News and correspondent Natalie Brand.
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Man who fought off Belfast knifeman with hurling stick named

Man who fought off Belfast knifeman with hurling stick named

Summary

A man named Maitiu Mag Tighearnan used a hurling stick to stop a knifeman attacking people on a street in north Belfast. The suspect was arrested after a person was seriously injured, and police called the event a critical incident.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened on Kinnaird Avenue in north Belfast on Monday night.
  • Maitiu Mag Tighearnan hit the attacker five times with a wooden hurling stick.
  • Police arrested a man on suspicion of attempted murder after a victim was seriously hurt.
  • The suspect is reportedly Sudanese and legally allowed to stay in Northern Ireland after coming from Dublin.
  • Tighearnan said he acted by chance to protect a young person and was not waiting for police.
  • Political leaders praised the bravery of people who helped stop the attack.
  • Protests are planned in Northern Ireland following the incident.
  • Northern Ireland’s justice minister urged calm and warned against those who want to cause trouble.
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The Guardian view on Ukraine and the prospects of peace: time to ramp up the pressure on Putin | Editorial

The Guardian view on Ukraine and the prospects of peace: time to ramp up the pressure on Putin | Editorial

Summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected a call from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for peace talks, insisting Russia would continue its military goals in eastern Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine has launched drone attacks on Russian cities and gained more ground on the battlefield, while European leaders discuss further support and sanctions against Russia.

Key Facts

  • Putin dismissed Zelenskyy’s invitation for face-to-face peace talks at an economic forum in St Petersburg.
  • Russia aims to keep control over the entire eastern Donbas region.
  • Ukraine conducted drone attacks on St Petersburg, hitting military targets and forcing residents to stay indoors.
  • Ukraine has regained more territory recently than Russia and is producing large numbers of drones.
  • The Russian military’s offensive has stalled due to high casualties and recruitment problems.
  • European Union defense ministers are considering more sanctions on Russia.
  • EU and G7 leaders will discuss peace talks and security guarantees for Ukraine soon.
  • Ukraine calls for anti-missile systems to protect its cities from attacks.
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Netanyahu and Trump started a war together. Now, their differing goals have put them at odds

Netanyahu and Trump started a war together. Now, their differing goals have put them at odds

Summary

Israel and the United States, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump, began a conflict with coordinated strikes against Iran and its allies. However, their goals have diverged, with Trump seeking a quick end to the war to reduce gas prices and Netanyahu aiming for a longer fight to defeat Hezbollah and Iran’s influence.

Key Facts

  • Israel struck targets in Lebanon and Iran, leading to missile retaliations from Iran.
  • Trump warned Israel not to attack Beirut but Israel did so anyway, causing tensions between the allies.
  • President Trump wants to end the war quickly and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to help lower global gas prices.
  • Netanyahu wants to continue fighting Hezbollah and Iran to ensure their defeat, despite pressure from the U.S.
  • Iran demands a full ceasefire in Lebanon as part of peace talks that Trump is supporting.
  • The fighting has strained U.S.-Israel relations, with Trump publicly criticizing Netanyahu’s approach.
  • Both leaders face elections this year, influencing their different priorities in the conflict.
  • Despite heavy fighting, Iran’s government and military programs remain largely intact.
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Drone boat rescues U.S. helicopter crew shot down by Iran

Drone boat rescues U.S. helicopter crew shot down by Iran

Summary

A U.S. Apache helicopter was shot down by Iran, and its two crew members were rescued by an autonomous drone boat called Corsair. The crew is now stable, and President Donald Trump has blamed Iran and promised a military response.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Apache attack helicopter was shot down by Iran.
  • The drone boat Corsair rescued the helicopter crew and moved them to a safe spot on the water.
  • From there, the crew was lifted onto a helicopter for evacuation.
  • Both crew members are in stable condition.
  • The Navy’s Task Force 59, which tests unmanned and AI technology, operated the Corsair.
  • Corsair is 24 feet long, can travel 1,000 nautical miles, carry 1,000 pounds, and move faster than 35 knots.
  • The Navy signed a $392 million contract with Saronic to build drone boats like Corsair.
  • President Donald Trump has blamed Iran and vowed a military response to the attack.
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Trump says Iran shot down US helicopter and vows to respond

Trump says Iran shot down US helicopter and vows to respond

Summary

President Donald Trump said Iran shot down a US Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. Two American crew members were rescued, and Trump said the US must respond to the attack.

Key Facts

  • The helicopter was an AH-64 Apache.
  • The attack happened near the coast of Oman while the helicopter was patrolling.
  • Two crew members were rescued safely by a US sea drone and are in stable condition.
  • This is the first Apache helicopter lost in the conflict with Iran.
  • President Trump said the US must respond to the attack but did not specify how.
  • Iran’s top negotiator suggested the attack was a response to broken commitments.
  • The incident happened while talks between the US and Iran were ongoing to end the regional conflict.
  • The situation is developing, and more updates are expected.
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Afghan Taliban forces open fire at protest sparked by dress code arrests

Afghan Taliban forces open fire at protest sparked by dress code arrests

Summary

Taliban forces in Herat, Afghanistan, opened fire on protesters demonstrating against the arrest of women for not following strict dress rules. At least two people, including a woman and a child, were reportedly killed, and several others were wounded during the clashes.

Key Facts

  • People in Herat protested against the Taliban’s arrests of women over dress code violations.
  • Taliban forces responded by shooting at protesters, killing a woman and a child.
  • Videos show security forces using sticks and guns against demonstrators.
  • More than a dozen people were injured and some hospitalized for gunshot wounds.
  • The Taliban say they are enforcing security and deny causing civilian injuries.
  • The U.N. raised concerns about women’s rights violations and arrests in Herat.
  • The Taliban’s dress code requires women to cover their hair and faces.
  • The UN urges respect for freedom of expression and accountability for violence.
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What We Know About The Belfast Knife Attack So Far

What We Know About The Belfast Knife Attack So Far

Summary

A man from Sudan in his 30s is being held by police in North Belfast after a knife attack. Politicians are urging calm while the police investigate and some want more details about the suspect's identity and immigration status.

Key Facts

  • The incident took place in North Belfast.
  • The suspect is a Sudanese man in his 30s.
  • He is held on suspicion of attempted murder.
  • Video footage of the attack has spread widely on social media.
  • Politicians in the UK Parliament (Westminster) and Northern Ireland Assembly (Stormont) have called for calm.
  • Some politicians demand quicker release of information about the suspect’s identity and immigration status.
  • The police are conducting an ongoing investigation.
  • The article also briefly mentions SpaceX preparing to debut on the stock market, unrelated to the attack.
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Former Air Canada pilot charged after allegedly flying without proper license for 16 years

Former Air Canada pilot charged after allegedly flying without proper license for 16 years

Summary

A former Air Canada pilot, Geoffrey Wall, has been charged for flying as a captain from 2009 to 2025 without the required airline transport pilot license. Air Canada discovered the issue, removed him from duty, and reported it to Transport Canada, the aviation regulator.

Key Facts

  • Geoffrey Wall flew more than 900 domestic and international flights as a captain without the proper license.
  • He held a commercial pilot license but lacked the required airline transport pilot license for a captain.
  • Air Canada found the problem during a documentation check and reported it to Transport Canada.
  • Wall was removed from active flying duties and is no longer employed by Air Canada.
  • Air Canada says safety was not compromised due to regular pilot training and checks.
  • Transport Canada fined Wall for flying without the correct license.
  • Wall also allegedly filed a false police report about stolen pilot documents.
  • The case is under active criminal investigation, limiting further comments from Air Canada.
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Screwworms in US: Human risk is low—but they can burrow through your skull

Screwworms in US: Human risk is low—but they can burrow through your skull

Summary

Screwworm flies, which eat living flesh, have reappeared in the US after being eradicated decades ago. Recent cases have been found mostly in Texas livestock, with one reported in a dog; humans can also be affected, though such cases are rare but serious.

Key Facts

  • Screwworm flies lay eggs in wounds of warm-blooded animals; their larvae eat living flesh.
  • Three new cases were reported by the USDA, making a total of five recent infections in the US.
  • Four cases were in calves in Texas; one case was in a dog with travel history to Mexico.
  • Screwworm was eradicated in the US Southwest by 1966 using sterile male fly releases.
  • The flies have been spreading northward from Central America since around 2022.
  • Screwworm infestations in humans can cause large, painful wounds that may get infected or even be fatal.
  • If the screwworms spread widely again, they could cause heavy financial losses to the Texas cattle industry.
  • Preventing infestations requires constant efforts because the flies reproduce quickly and their larvae damage muscle, cartilage, and bone.
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UK and allies impose sanctions on firms enabling West Bank settler violence

UK and allies impose sanctions on firms enabling West Bank settler violence

Summary

The UK, along with France, Norway, Australia, and Canada, has imposed sanctions on six companies and one individual linked to supporting violence by settlers in the West Bank. The UK government issued new advice urging British businesses not to engage in economic activities in illegal settlements but stopped short of banning trade.

Key Facts

  • The UK and four other Western countries sanctioned six firms and one individual tied to West Bank settler violence.
  • The UK foreign secretary, Yvette Cooper, chose not to impose a trade ban, citing enforcement difficulties.
  • Over 130 Labour MPs demanded a full trade ban to follow international court orders.
  • The UK’s updated guidance advises firms against business in illegal Israeli settlements but does not punish noncompliance.
  • Products from Israeli settlements have not received UK tariff benefits since 2005.
  • The UK continues to encourage trade with Israel inside pre-1967 borders due to Israel’s strong economy.
  • The UK has already sanctioned two Israeli ministers linked to extremist views and settlement policies.
  • The government called on Israel to ease restrictions on humanitarian aid entering Gaza.
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‘Earth’s first starfleet’: Nasa reveals Artemis III crew and project’s next steps

‘Earth’s first starfleet’: Nasa reveals Artemis III crew and project’s next steps

Summary

NASA announced the crew and next steps for its Artemis III mission, which will test lunar landers in orbit around Earth next year. The mission is part of a long-term plan to return humans to the moon, with the first lunar landing scheduled for Artemis IV in 2028.

Key Facts

  • Artemis III will be a two-week mission in low Earth orbit to test lunar landing systems.
  • The crew includes one Italian astronaut from the European Space Agency and three Americans.
  • The mission will test landers from private firms Blue Origin and SpaceX.
  • Blue Origin experienced a rocket launchpad explosion in May but aims to be ready for Artemis III.
  • NASA is working closely with Blue Origin and other partners to address challenges.
  • Artemis IV, planned for 2028, aims to land humans on the moon for the first time since 1972.
  • NASA plans to build a permanent moon base and conduct more exploration missions beyond Artemis.
  • Multiple spacecraft from different countries will operate in orbit simultaneously during these missions.
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After Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenians vote for peace over nationalism

After Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenians vote for peace over nationalism

Summary

Armenia held national elections shortly after a major military loss in the Nagorno-Karabakh region to Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his party won enough votes to keep control of parliament, signaling public support for his plan to focus on peace, reduce conflict, and move away from Russian influence.

Key Facts

  • Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan led the Civil Contract party in the elections.
  • The elections followed Armenia's defeat in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Azerbaijan in 2023.
  • Pashinyan’s party won 49.8% of the vote and secured a parliamentary majority with 64 out of 105 seats.
  • The public appears to support Pashinyan’s vision for peace and moving away from nationalism.
  • Peace efforts, including a peace agreement with Azerbaijan signed in 2023 at the White House, were central to Pashinyan’s campaign.
  • Opposition parties favor nationalism but won fewer seats compared to Pashinyan’s party.
  • The Armenian government is shifting focus away from the Nagorno-Karabakh issue in its security strategy.
  • The election outcome reflects Armenians’ desire for stability and less conflict after decades of war.
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Iran is turning Lebanon into a veto point — and we are letting it happen

Iran is turning Lebanon into a veto point — and we are letting it happen

Summary

The U.S. and Iran have linked discussions about Iran’s nuclear program with talks about Lebanon. Iran supports Hezbollah in Lebanon, and if Hezbollah rejects a ceasefire agreement, it could stop progress in the nuclear talks. Iran is using this connection to gain more influence in the region.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Iran have a memorandum of understanding (an agreement) that connects nuclear talks with Lebanon issues.
  • Hezbollah, a group based in Lebanon, is involved in the ceasefire talks brokered by the U.S.
  • Hezbollah’s refusal to accept the ceasefire could stop the progress of nuclear negotiations with Iran.
  • Iran has deliberately created this link to increase its power in regional discussions.
  • This tactic allows Iran to use pressure from the Lebanon situation to influence nuclear talks.
  • The situation shows how regional conflicts and diplomacy are linked in the Middle East.
  • The U.S. is currently allowing this situation to continue without breaking the connection.
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Map Shows World’s Best Airports for Layovers—According to 12 Key Criteria

Map Shows World’s Best Airports for Layovers—According to 12 Key Criteria

Summary

A new global study ranked the best airports for layovers based on 12 important factors. Singapore’s Changi Airport was named the top airport for layovers, followed by Dubai International Airport and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Airports are now focusing on making layovers more comfortable with better lounges, dining, and rest areas.

Key Facts

  • Singapore’s Changi Airport ranked first for layovers due to its dining, amenities, gardens, rooftop pool, and special relaxation rooms.
  • Dubai International Airport came in second, known for having 23 lounges and being the world’s busiest international airport.
  • Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport was third and the only North American airport in the top 10.
  • Airports are competing to turn layovers into part of the travel experience by adding good food, sleep spaces, and entertainment.
  • Airports in Asia, including China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia, performed well overall on food, lounge quality, and comfort.
  • The study reflects a shift where airports are judged not just on speed but also on how well they help travelers enjoy their wait.
  • Airlines face challenges like higher fuel costs and route disruptions, increasing the importance of airport layover experiences.
  • Travelers can even explore city tours and airport attractions like the Rain Vortex waterfall and outdoor trails at Changi Airport during layovers.
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Pilots are fine after U.S. helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz, Trump says

Pilots are fine after U.S. helicopter crashes near Strait of Hormuz, Trump says

Summary

A U.S. Army attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, but the two crew members were not hurt, President Donald Trump said. The cause of the crash is unknown amid ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and their allies in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The helicopter that crashed was a U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter.
  • The crash happened near the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway.
  • Both crew members survived without injuries, according to President Trump.
  • The cause of the crash is not yet clear.
  • The region is experiencing increased violence as Iran and Israel exchanged attacks recently.
  • Iranian TV reported that Israeli attacks killed at least two Iranian air-defense personnel.
  • The conflict has disrupted global markets by raising energy prices and food costs.
  • Efforts to create a lasting ceasefire since April have not succeeded, especially as Israel expands its operations against militias in Lebanon.
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