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An interactive map has revealed the surprising realities of where you would emerge if you dug straight through the Earth. Contrary to popular belief, Americans often think they would end up in China, while Britons assume they would reach Australia. However, the map shows that those in the UK would actually surface in the ocean near New Zealand, while most European countries lead to the sea, with central Spain being one of the few exceptions. Similarly, Americans would find themselves in the ocean, with the nearest land being the remote Heard Island and McDonald Islands. The map allows users to input their location to discover their true antipodal point, highlighting connections between major cities worldwide, such as Christchurch in New Zealand and A Coruña in Spain. Before embarking on any digging adventures, users are encouraged to check the map to ensure they are appropriately dressed for their unexpected destination. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIn the remote Australian Red Center, approximately 1,500 kilometers from the nearest city, lies the Joint Defence Facility Pine Gap, a highly secretive military communications base operated by Australia and the United States. Established in 1966 during the Cold War, it was initially presented as a space research facility but has since been revealed to be a key site for the CIA's intelligence operations, particularly in monitoring Soviet missile capabilities. Today, the base employs around 1,000 personnel, split evenly between Australians and Americans, yet remains off-limits to the public, with strict security measures in place. Pine Gap is believed to play a crucial role in global surveillance and military coordination, notably during conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. Despite ongoing protests against its operations and a plethora of conspiracy theories surrounding it, the facility continues to be vital for U.S. intelligence in the Asia-Pacific region. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 11 ameznews.inA rare case of bird flu has been confirmed in a resident of the South West of England, marking the first human infection with the H5N1 strain in the UK. The individual, who has had regular contact with infected birds, is reported to be in good health, and health authorities have assessed the risk to the public as very low. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has traced all contacts of the infected person, who is currently self-isolating, with no evidence of further transmission. Experts emphasize that while avian flu can occasionally jump to humans, such occurrences are extremely rare, and human-to-human transmission is even less common. Professor Isabel Oliver from UKHSA reassured the public, stating that robust monitoring systems are in place to detect and manage such cases. Scientists agree that the current strain does not show signs of efficient human transmission, underscoring the need for a calm and measured response. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 2 pmeznews.inIn a harrowing tale from Indonesia, an orangutan named Pony was rescued from a life of exploitation in a brothel in the village of Kareng Pangi, Central Kalimantan, where she was used as a sex slave. Found in early 2003, Pony was discovered chained, with her hair shaved and her body covered in sores. Despite numerous rescue attempts by animal rights groups and local authorities being obstructed by villagers who viewed her as a "good luck charm," a police operation eventually freed her. Since her rescue, Pony has undergone a lengthy rehabilitation at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Reintroduction Center, where she initially struggled but made significant progress by 2013, successfully adapting to a pre-release environment. This tragic case highlights the broader issue of illegal wildlife trade, with estimates suggesting over 20,000 orangutans have been affected in recent years. 
Published: Dec 21 2025, 10 pmeznews.inResearch suggests that the notion of the human brain fully maturing at age 25 is overly simplistic. While the prefrontal cortex, responsible for rational thought and cognitive control, does continue to develop into the mid-twenties, this does not mean that brain development ceases at that age. A 2013 study highlighted that individual maturation timelines can vary significantly, with some areas of the brain maturing earlier, particularly in women. Recent findings from a large-scale study involving nearly 125,000 MRI scans indicate that while certain brain properties peak early in life, changes continue throughout adulthood. Experts emphasize that there is no universal timeline for brain development, as it is influenced by various factors, including individual differences and specific brain regions. Thus, while age 25 may mark a point of significant development, the brain remains adaptable and capable of change well beyond this age. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 10 ameznews.inA new study highlights the growing threat posed by megaconstellations of satellites, particularly to astronomy and light pollution. The research, led by NASA Ames scientist Alejandro Borlaff, warns that by 2040, nearly 40% of Hubble telescope images could be compromised by satellite interference, with newer telescopes facing even higher risks. The surge in satellite numbers, driven by companies like SpaceX's Starlink, has raised concerns about light pollution affecting even remote areas, as well as the potential for catastrophic collisions in space, known as Kessler syndrome. Experts, including Dr. John C. Barentine, emphasize the urgent need for updated international regulations to manage satellite launches and mitigate their impact on both terrestrial and space-based observations. The study underscores the necessity for responsible de-orbiting practices and a stronger policy framework to safeguard the future of astronomical research. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 2 ameznews.inA webcam at Yellowstone National Park recently captured a "dirty explosion" at Black Diamond Pool, ejecting superheated water and mud up to 40 feet into the air. This event marks the first time such an explosion has been recorded on camera since a larger eruption in July 2024 damaged a nearby boardwalk and forced tourists to evacuate. The National Park Service noted that rocks the size of grapefruits were propelled hundreds of feet skyward, with the explosion attributed to a blockage in the hot spring's plumbing system. Since then, smaller eruptions have occurred sporadically, prompting the closure of Biscuit Basin to visitors. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has been monitoring the site, emphasizing that the recent activity does not indicate an impending larger eruption, as the underlying magma chamber remains stable and inactive for the foreseeable future. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 9 ameznews.inIn Burundi's Rusizi River, swimming is strongly discouraged due to the legendary crocodile known as Gustave, who is rumored to have killed over 300 people, primarily children and adolescents, since 1987. This notorious creature, estimated to be over 20 feet long and weighing around 2,000 pounds, has become a figure of folklore, with sightings and attacks peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Experts, including herpetologist Patrice Faye, have linked Gustave to numerous fatal incidents, although many attacks go unreported, particularly affecting impoverished communities. Witnesses describe Gustave as having distinctive scars from previous encounters with hunters. While reports of Gustave have dwindled in recent years, with claims of his possible death remaining unverified, the legend endures, leaving locals to wonder if he is still lurking in the waters, waiting for his next opportunity. 
Published: Dec 22 2025, 12 ameznews.inAs the holiday season brings feasting and festivities, it also leads to a daunting pile of dirty dishes, often left to soak in kitchen sinks—one of the germiest spots in the home. A 2019 study from Cardiff Metropolitan University revealed that kitchen sinks and tap handles harbor high levels of bacteria, including harmful strains like _E. coli_ and _Klebsiella pneumoniae_. These bacteria thrive in damp environments, making soaking dishes in warm water particularly risky. Experts warn that this practice can hinder effective cleaning, as bacteria may survive standard washing methods. To combat this, Dr. Brian Labus from the University of Nevada recommends washing dishes promptly and regularly disinfecting sinks with soapy water followed by an antibacterial spray. For those using dishwashers, opting for models with superheated steam can enhance sanitation. Keeping kitchens clean is essential, especially during the busy holiday season. 
Published: Dec 23 2025, 12 ameznews.inIn a historic moment for space exploration, astronaut Bruce McCandless II made headlines on February 7, 1984, when he became the first human to conduct an untethered spacewalk from the space shuttle Challenger. Alongside fellow astronaut Bob Stewart, McCandless donned a Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) and ventured into the void of space, hurtling at nearly 28,900 kilometers per hour (18,000 miles per hour). Despite the daunting speed, the MMU allowed for a gentler experience, moving at just a few miles per hour using nitrogen thrust. McCandless, reflecting on the experience, expressed a mix of elation and pride, likening his freedom from the shuttle to "slipping the surly bonds of Earth." His wife, watching from mission control, felt the tension of the moment, but McCandless lightened the mood with a quip about his leap into history, solidifying his place in the annals of space exploration. 
Published: Dec 22 2025, 7 amFor the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
