SpaceWeather.com has information and some spectacular photos of the failed Russian rocket booster that languished in space since last year—until now.  Suddenly, while over Australia, the leftover fuel exploded and provided an unexpected show.  You should especially take note of this animated GIF of the fiery orb taken by Robert McNaught (of Comet McNaught fame).

Check out these photos and the explanation of an encounter between a juvenile white-bellied sea eagle and a grey heron.  The eagle chased the heron for some time, yet the heron eventually escaped—and even got some help from other birds, although they didn’t realize they were helping anyone.  Very cool.

This is a dangerous game, but it’s not surprising as I’ve said before.  “US contingency plans for air strikes on Iran extend beyond nuclear sites and include most of the country’s military infrastructure, the BBC has learned. It is understood that any such attack – if ordered – would target Iranian air bases, naval bases, missile facilities and command-and-control centres.”  See the article for specifics from the plan.  Also take note it points out people are growing increasingly disturbed and worried by these plans.

That’s mighty Christian of you.  “The Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego said in a letter to parishioners this weekend that it is considering declaring bankruptcy to avoid going to trial on more than 140 lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by priests.”  So spend decades hiding and protecting pedophiles in the priesthood, deny responsibility even when the issue explodes all around the world, and then shirk responsibility and avoid trial by declaring bankruptcy—a move intended solely to protect the Vatican’s money while once again victimizing the people who have been traumatized and abused at the hands of the church.  Disgusting.

Superlions!  Neat-oh!  “Marooned on an island, this group of lions should have died out. Instead, in an evolutionary twist, they’ve learned to swim and become strong enough to tackle their only prey… giant buffalo. Fearless, ferocious and mightier than the world has ever seen, this is the new breed of super-lion. Only one species of prey holds its attention: the buffalo — and in order to bring its powerful foe to the ground, it will take to deep water, use sophisticated hunting techniques and then silence the gigantic beast with a single swipe of a savage paw.”  Read the rest of the article for an explanation.  And keep in mind this is yet another undeniable example of evolution in progress, one we can see and measure and track and explain.  Or is someone going to tell me this was another last-minute design maneuver by some mystical voodoo doll-wielding deity?  Huh?  Anyone?  No, I didn’t think so.