Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON April 21, 2025
Full News Archive
- Headline: 17th-Century Frescoes Rediscovered in Rome. Impact: If these frescoes had remained hidden, art historians might have had to rely solely on Instagram influencers for their Baroque education, leading to an art world dominated by selfies with paintings. Thank goodness for electricians with a penchant for art history.. Fact: Did you know that frescoes require a specific technique involving wet plaster? So, next time you start a DIY project, maybe don’t try to recreate the Sistine Chapel in your bathroom..
- Headline: Willy Ley: Visionary of Space Exploration. Impact: Ley’s prophetic predictions of space travel could have led to a faster space race had he been recognized in time. Instead, his ashes languishing in a basement probably delayed humanity's escape from Earth by several years. Thanks, New York real estate!. Fact: Did you know that Willy Ley was not only a visionary but also a science fiction writer? If only he’d written a story about his own ashes getting lost—now that would be a plot twist!.
- Headline: Federal Judge to Decide Google's Future. Impact: If a judge breaks up Google, we might finally see a world where ‘googling’ isn’t a verb. Future generations may ask, 'What does it mean to search for something?' and we’ll have to explain the concept of libraries. Yikes.. Fact: Did you know that Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has so many side projects it’s basically the tech equivalent of a kid with too many hobbies? One day they’ll be selling lemonade on Mars..
- Headline: Francis, the First Latin American Pope, Dies at 88. Impact: Francis’s passing marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, possibly leading to a future pope who thinks TikTok is a form of prayer. The church's social media strategy may never be the same.. Fact: Did you know that Francis was the first pope to choose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi? Clearly, he was aiming for a more earthy, relatable vibe. Too bad the Vatican still struggles with Wi-Fi..