Science Boeing faces hard questions about Starliner and its future in space Boeing’s Starliner will return to Earth as soon as next week — but the crew will stay in space into next year. It’s another blow for Boeing, and could have major implications for its space business. Joel Rose Play AudioListen 4 mins
Science Long overlooked, menstrual blood is a treasure trove for science NPR’s Ailsa Chang talks to Mother Jones’ Maddie Oatman about her recent reporting revealing how menstrual blood has long been an overlooked source of key medical information. Ailsa Chang Play AudioListen 6 mins
Science Scientists explore how bats can eat so much sugar Bats can consume an extraordinary amount of sugar without getting sick. Scientists are trying to learn if bats have something to teach humans when it comes to controlling and treating conditions like diabetes. Play AudioListen 6 mins
Science The first commercial spacewalk will be conducted later this week Four astronauts aboard a SpaceX capsule will attempt the historic private spacewalk. It's a high-risk operation with lots that could go wrong, but with a potentially great view. Geoff Brumfiel Play AudioListen 4 mins
Environment In Palau, residents are divided on easing fishing restrictions Palau made history a decade ago when it closed off 80% of its oceans to any kind of fishing. A proposal to open up some of its marine sanctuary to fishing has divided residents on how best to protect the oceans around the Pacific nation. Emily Feng Play AudioListen 8 mins
Science NASA will bring stranded astronauts back on SpaceX — not Boeing's Starliner NASA had been weighing whether it would be safe enough to return two astronauts to Earth on Boeing's Starliner. Nell Greenfieldboyce Play AudioListen 4 mins
Science NASA will bring stranded astronauts back on SpaceX — not Boeing's Starliner Boeing's troubled Starliner remains docked at the International Space Station as NASA decides it is too risky to bring the astronauts home on the spacecraft. The two astronauts will return in February. Nell Greenfieldboyce
Environment A lithium mine in Serbia could rev up Europe's e-vehicles, but opposition is fierce A proposed lithium mine in Serbia is spurring protests over its potential impact on the environment. The mineral is in high demand because it’s crucial for the batteries that run electric vehicles. Rob Schmitz Play AudioListen 8 mins
Environment The biggest diamond in over a century is found in Botswana — a whopping 2,492 carats The Botswana government says the huge 2,492-carat diamond is the second-biggest ever discovered in a mine. It's the biggest diamond found since 1905. It weighs approximately half a kilogram. The Associated Press
Arts & Life More Paul Allen treasures are up for sale: Art, outer space, and computer history Dyer Oxley
