Edition 144
October 26, 2026
Young chess prodigy, green initiatives, Mars food, art history, and food for trash!
Bodhana Sivanandan breaks Judit Polgar's 38-year-old chess record
An 11-year-old chess prodigy has shattered a 38-year-old record, becoming the youngest female player ever to earn the International Master title. This incredible feat follows her recent achievement of becoming the youngest player to qualify for the Woman Grandmaster title.
Denmark to ban mink farming in government U-turn
Denmark is ending mink farming by 2029, prioritizing animal welfare over a long-standing industry. This decision marks a shift away from its past status as a top fur producer.
UH Hilo Students Win $50K NASA Award for Mars Food
UH Hilo students landed a $50K NASA award for their innovative Mars food system, inspired by ancient Hawaiian land management. Their "ʻOhā Kanu" concept adapts traditional practices for a resilient, zero-waste astronaut diet.
Star Clusters in Van Gogh’s Starry Night Matches Taurus Sky From July 1889, Shows Study
New research suggests Van Gogh's iconic "The Starry Night" depicts the actual night sky of July 1889, featuring the Hyades star cluster and Venus. The astronomical study found a striking match to the pre-dawn sky over Saint-Rémy, grounding the painting in real observation.
India’s First Garbage Café: Exchange Trash for Food
People can exchange plastic and other waste for food and essential items, giving discarded materials a reason to be collected instead of littered. It’s a simple idea with a powerful message: waste isn’t always worthless.
