Japan ASDF fighter crashes off Ibaraki Pref.
WorldTOKYO -- A Japanese Air Self-Defense Force F-2 fighter crashed into the ocean off Ibaraki Prefecture, eastern Japan, during a training exercise on Thursday.
New species teem in Cambodia's threatened karst
WorldA biologist might go a lifetime without discovering a new species. It took a team exploring Cambodia's limestone karst a single night to find three.
Mind the gap: tourists drawn to Oman's giant sinkholes
WorldShrouded in fog in the lush mountains of southern Oman, a giant chasm plunges into the landscape, echoing with mysterious sounds that have spawned myths and legends among nearby tribes.
Massive French wildfire now contained, 16,000 hectares affected, local authorities say
WorldA massive wildfire that has scorched through 16,000 hectares (39,537 acres) of forest and villages in southern France since Tuesday has now been contained, local authorities said on Thursday.
OpenAI releases ChatGPT-5 as global AI race accelerates
WorldOpenAI unveiled ChatGPT-5 on Thursday, describing it as a major leap forward in artificial intelligence, with enhanced abilities in reasoning, task automation, and coding. The new model is being rolled out free to all users, as the company continues to compete globally in the rapidly evolving AI race.
Canada sends troops to eastern province as fire damage grows
WorldCanada is sending troops and coast guard personnel to its easternmost province on Thursday to confront wildfires that have forced hundreds to evacuate, as the country endures one of its worst fire seasons on record.
Cockatoos can bust a move: Australian research
WorldKnown for their rowdy cries and mischievous antics, Australia’s cockatoos also have serious dance skills, with researchers documenting 30 unique moves across 10 species.
Pacific microstate sells first passports to fund climate action
WorldA remote Pacific nation selling passports to fund climate action has approved just six applicants since early this year, but officials said Thursday that interest in joining the low-lying, largely barren island is increasing.
Japanese population sees record drop in 2024
WorldThe population of Japanese nationals fell by a record amount -- more than 900,000 people -- in 2024, official data showed, as the country battles to reverse its perennially low birth rates.
Dangerous dreams: Inside internet's 'sleepmaxxing' craze
WorldFrom mouth taping to rope-assisted neck swinging, a viral social media trend is promoting extreme bedtime routines that claim to deliver perfect sleep -- despite scant medical evidence and potential safety risks.
