How to watch tonight's rare and "magical" celestial events
"Dec. 7 brings one of those magical moments when the sky changes dramatically before your very eyes," NASA said.
Mars
Mars Company Says It's Planning To Evolve Uncle Ben's Rice Brand Hours After Aunt Jemima Logo Retired
The company was founded in Minnesota by Frank C. Mars and has since spanned more than five generations.
NASA Rover Finally Bites The Dust On Mars After 15 Years
NASA's longest-running rover on Mars, Opportunity, has been pronounced dead, 15 years after it landed on the red planet.
For The First Time, Earthlings Can Hear Sounds From Surface Of Mars
Was there ever life on Mars? Maybe. Is there sound? Definitely. On Friday, NASA released audio of the Martian wind, the first time sound has been recorded on another planet's surface.
NASA Rover Falls Silent Amid Giant Mars Dust Storm
Controllers expect it will be several more days before there's enough sunlight to recharge Opportunity's battery through its solar panels.
New Mars Discoveries Advance The Case For Possible Life
New Mars discoveries are advancing the case for possible life on the red planet, past or even present.
NASA Plans To Put Robot Bees On Mars
The space agency says it is working on creating a swarm of robot bees that will fly around the surface of Mars.
After 8 Months Of Isolation, Mars Research Crew Emerges
Six NASA-backed research subjects who have been cooped up in a Mars-like habitat on a remote Hawaii volcano since January emerged from isolation Sunday. They devoured fresh-picked tropical fruits, vegetables and a fluffy egg strata after eating mostly freeze-dried food during their isolation.
Astronaut Breaks Space Time Record, Talks Mars With Trump
Astronaut Peggy Whitson broke the U.S. record Monday for most time in space and talked up Mars during a congratulatory call from President Donald Trump.
Elon Musk Expected To Detail Mars Mission & Settlement Tuesday
Are we ready to settle down on the red planet? Plans are going to be announced Tuesday about creating a permanent settlement on Mars.
Minnesota Man Among Finalists For Mars Program
The self-proclaimed "Minnesota Martian" has made the latest round of cuts for the Mars One Program. Jackson Kisling was one of more than 200,000 when he applied to be one of the first people to go to Mars. Now he's only up against 662 others.
Minn. Man Finalist In Mars Colonization Plan
A Woodbury man could be traveling to a place no human has ever seen. He's a finalist to be one of the first people to live on Mars. A Dutch company has a plan to colonize Mars before 2025. They have bubbles that astronauts would live in and a whole plan on how to exist.
Minn. Scientist Waiting To Inhale Air From Mars
How's the air on Mars? A Minnesota scientist hopes to find out, soon.
Police, Animal Group Give Different Stories On Injured Pit Bull
A 4-year-old pit bull named Cesar is recovering after being found near death earlier this week.
Look For Mars Tonight
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Latest News
Enjoy the adventures of the prehistoric at Jurassic Quest
This morning, WCCO's Adam Duxter got his dinosaur adventure on at Jurassic Quest.
"A Peace of My Mind" returns to Twin Cities
"After two years on the road, A Peace of My Mind returns home to the Twin Cities. Join us for an evening of celebration, stories and photos."
Twin Cities woman bakes 100 cakes, donates all to neighbors and strangers
Her neighbors received the first cake after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the couple to cancel their wedding.
Gaudreau secures shootout win as Wild beat Buffalo 3-2
Mats Zuccarello, Kirill Kaprizov and Freddy Gaudreau scored in the shootout, lifting the Minnesota Wild past the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 on Saturday night.
Man shot in both feet while interrupting suspected break-in
Police say an initial investigation revealed that the victim heard glass breaking and believes he interrupted people breaking into a vehicle.
Twin Cities News
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Twin Cities woman bakes 100 cakes, donates all to neighbors and strangers
Her neighbors received the first cake after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the couple to cancel their wedding.
Man shot in both feet while interrupting suspected break-in
Police say an initial investigation revealed that the victim heard glass breaking and believes he interrupted people breaking into a vehicle.
Dozens of dogs compete for the title of cutest puppy, raise thousands of dollars
A local dog derby is using the power of puppies to bring in money for their race next week.
Community leaders react to death of Tyre Nichols, demand change
The video of Tyre Nichols' death was unwatchable for some members of the Minneapolis community. For others, it was a sickening reminder of a similar video taken in May 2020.
"It's a challenge": 100 dive below White Bear Lake in world record attempt
White Bear Lake was the center of the ice scuba diving world Saturday, as hundreds from around the world set their sights on making history.
Greater Minnesota News
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"He's just a special person": Community shows support for custodian undergoing cancer treatment
He goes to school every day but never plays or coaches a game. Still, he's a big part of the Bemidji Athletic Department. His real name is Eric Nelson, but in Bemidji, it's just Big E, and he's special to the kids.
How to keep your pets happy and safe during a cold snap
A snow and ice-filled dog park hasn't stopped many pups from having fun, but the dropping temperatures are another story.
"It's going to be a good race": Mushers excited for John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon
As temperatures dip down to below-zero, there's a group of athletes who can't wait to get into the fresh, crisp air.
BCA identifies suspect in McLeod County shooting that injured 2 deputies
Investigators say Caturia and Malz went to Paul's home to serve a warrant for possession of child pornography.
2,300 fentanyl pills seized during Waite Park drug bust
Law enforcement in central Minnesota learned from the U.S. Postal Inspector that a large shipment of fentanyl pills were being sent to an address on the 800 block of 7th Street South in Waite Park.The package allegedly contained 2,300 pills.
Wisconsin News
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Snowy conditions lead to massive pile-up in Southern Wisconsin
Snowy conditions led to a massive traffic pile-up in southern Wisconsin on Friday that left Interstate 39/90 blocked for hours, authorities said.
Feds sue Wisconsin military department over discrimination
The lawsuit alleges that Michelle Hartness applied for a supervisory position within Wisconsin Emergency Management, a WDMA division, in 2016 after earning stellar reviews as a state emergency management director over the previous five years.
Wisconsin judge mulls what constitutes an address for voting
A Wisconsin judge is considering whether to make clear that local election officials can accept absentee ballots missing parts of a witnesses address.
Abortion front and center in Wisconsin Supreme Court race
A liberal judge running in a pivotal race to determine control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court touts her support for abortion rights. The winner of the April 4 election will determine whether the court remains under control of conservative justices or flips to a liberal majority.
Wisconsin's estimated budget surplus tops $7 billion
Wisconsin's projected state budget surplus is now forecast to reach $7.1 billion by July, up more than half a billion dollars from the previous estimate two months ago.
Politics
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Trump kicks off 2024 presidential campaign in New Hampshire and South Carolina
Trump focused on the Biden administration's handling of foreign policy issues such as the war in Ukraine, the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan and immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Community leaders react to death of Tyre Nichols, demand change
The video of Tyre Nichols' death was unwatchable for some members of the Minneapolis community. For others, it was a sickening reminder of a similar video taken in May 2020.
Minnesota Senate passes PRO Act
The Senate debated for several hours before officially passing a bill which would guarantee a right to an abortion in the state.
Margaret Brennan on documents found at former president and vice presidents’ homes
Margaret Brennan from Face the Nation sat down with top senators overseeing the intelligence committee.
Ronna McDaniel reelected RNC chair
Ronna McDaniel won a fourth term, despite her challenger getting a last-minute boost from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Consumer News
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Tips to help you save hundreds on your spring break trips
If you're hoping to escape the Minnesota freeze with the best deal in mind, some travel experts say to book your flight before anything else.
How wage theft drains millions of dollars from Minnesota families – and what's being done to stop it.
A CBS News Investigation dug into the data on reported wage thefts from state departments of labor, and found the total value of known cash withheld by employers is roughly $1.5 billion.
Take control of your money with these budgeting tips
"People worry about doing it right," Grant Meyer, a CPA with Financial Planning Association of Minnesota (FPA of Minnesota), said. "I would say the best thing is to do something because something is better than nothing."
Court reverses class action decision in Wisconsin Burger King lawsuit
A group of managers at Burger King filed a lawsuit in November 2019, alleging that they have to work more than 40 hours a week and spend most of their time doing the same work as nonexecutive employees at the restaurants.
Don't miss "Lake Chipotle's" polar plunge this Saturday
Facebook event advertising polar plunge at "Lake Chipotle" garners 1.6K responses from users.
Crime News
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Man shot in both feet while interrupting suspected break-in
Police say an initial investigation revealed that the victim heard glass breaking and believes he interrupted people breaking into a vehicle.
Video of Tyre Nichols' violent arrest released by Memphis police
Four videos released by the city of Memphis show different angles of Tyre Nichols being pepper sprayed, kicked in the head while being restrained, punched and struck multiple times with a baton.
Community leaders react to death of Tyre Nichols, demand change
The video of Tyre Nichols' death was unwatchable for some members of the Minneapolis community. For others, it was a sickening reminder of a similar video taken in May 2020.
Police: 15-year-old shot in the neck in St. Paul
Police in St. Paul say a teenager is in the hospital Friday night after he was shot in the neck.
BCA identifies suspect in McLeod County shooting that injured 2 deputies
Investigators say Caturia and Malz went to Paul's home to serve a warrant for possession of child pornography.
Health News
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Gay and bisexual men would be able to donate blood under rule change
Potential donors would be screened with a questionnaire that evaluates their individual risks for HIV based on sexual behavior, recent partners and other factors.
Minnesota Senate passes bill that would protect abortion rights in state law
After more than 14 hours of debate, the Minnesota Senate passed legislation that would codify abortion rights in the state; it now heads to the governor's desk for signature.
VA urges millions of veterans exposed to burn pits to file claims
The PACT Act takes the burden of proof off veterans, automatically linking asthma, some cancers and other illnesses to burn pit exposure.
"Safe Spaces" offers lifeline to human trafficking, abuse victims in Hennepin County
A new pilot program in the heart of the Twin Cities is offering a lifeline to victims of human trafficking and abuse.
Conjoined twins successfully separated at Texas hospital
The procedure, involving a team of 25 medical professionals, marked a surgical first for the Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth.
Entertainment News
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Jeremy Renner was run over by snowplow while trying to protect nephew
Jeremy Renner said he broke more than 30 bones in the accident.
John Mayer coming to the Xcel Center this spring
John Mayer announces North American spring tour, stopping at St. Paul's Xcel Energy Center on April 1.
First round of performers announced for 65th Annual Grammy Awards
Bad Bunny, Mary J. Blige, Brandi Carlile, Luke Combs, Steve Lacy, Lizzo, Kim Petras and Sam Smith will take the stage on "Music's Biggest Night."
Paris Hilton announces birth of first baby
You are already loved beyond words," Hilton wrote.
Australia could deny rapper Ye an entry visa over his antisemitism
Australia's Migration Act sets security and character requirements for non-citizens to enter the country.
Sports News
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Gaudreau secures shootout win as Wild beat Buffalo 3-2
Mats Zuccarello, Kirill Kaprizov and Freddy Gaudreau scored in the shootout, lifting the Minnesota Wild past the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 on Saturday night.
Northwestern beat Minnesota 81-61 for third straight win
Minnesota had a four-point lead six minutes into the game before Northwestern outscored the Gophers 29-7 over the next nine minutes.
Edwards scores 34, Timberwolves beat Kings 117-110
Anthony Edwards had 16 of his 34 points in the pivotal third quarter, D'Angelo Russell scored 25 points and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on for a 117-110 win against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday night.
Twins, fans enjoy Correa jolt as spring training nears
Correa picked two other teams before returning to Minnesota after those agreements fell through, but his $200 million contract was still pretty sweet for a fan base weary of a two-decade wait since the last time the Twins won a playoff series.
Twins prepare for spring training in Fort Myers, still in hurricane recovery
"There's still debris, there's still trees piled up on the side of the highways," said Twins pitcher Chris Paddack. "You're always seeing semi-trucks with palm trees or trash or whatever it might be."
Talking Points
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Talking Points
Talking Points: Driver's licenses for all (part 3)
A bill that's making its way through the Minnesota Capitol would make it possible for anyone an opportunity to get a driver's license, even if they don't have proof of legal immigration in the U.S. Esme Murphy spoke with our political analysts about the likelihood of the bill passes.
Talking Points: Driver's licenses for all (part 2)
A bill that's making its way through the Minnesota Capitol would make it possible for anyone an opportunity to get a driver's license, even if they don't have proof of legal immigration in the U.S. Esme Murphy spoke with Sen. John Jasinski who fears the licenses could lead to illegal voting.
Talking Points: Driver's licenses for all (part 1)
A bill that's making its way through the Minnesota Capitol would make it possible for anyone an opportunity to get a driver's license, even if they don't have proof of legal immigration in the U.S. Esme Murphy spoke with the author of that bill Sen. Zaynab Muhamed.
Talking Points: Bill would give Minnesotans without proof of legal immigration drivers licenses
A bill that's making its way through the Minnesota Capitol would make it possible for anyone an opportunity to get a driver's license, even if they don't have proof of legal immigration in the U.S.
University of Minnesota's medical facilities face uncertain future amid two proposals
What exactly is happening with the University of Minnesota's medical facilities and how much is it going to cost taxpayers?
Finding Minnesota
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How one man's passion turned into a snowmobile museum in Isle
Winters in our state mean lots of snowmobiling. And with that comes lots of memories.
Man turns his kids' old fort into "glass" cabin in Walker
"It's like a reverse snow globe, where you're sitting in the globe and the snow is outside," Keith Stetz said.
Finding Minnesota: How Cokato became "Sauna City"
When it's cold outside, there's at least one place you can go to get warm -- a sauna. In this week's Finding Minnesota, John Lauritsen shows us how Cokato became "Sauna City."
A ride along with Silent Run Adventures, a Monticello dog sledding team
Even in the ice and cold, there's a team near Monticello that's always ready to work their tails off. Silent Run Adventures is a dog sledding team that got off to a unique start.
Act of vandalism may have saved St. Paul Cathedral's historic stained glass windows
"They add to my prayers. They're not distracting at all, they're just the opposite," said visitor Terry Goerke.
Good Question
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Good Question: What are classified documents?
In the past few weeks, there has been a lot of talk about how sensitive information is stored in Washington.
Why do we use slang?
The English language is ever-evolving, thanks to new words or older ones getting new meanings. That informal type of speaking starts to become natural. So why do we use slang?
What exactly is ChatGPT?
"It's huge," said Loup Ventures' Gene Munster. "It's hard to understate how big ChatGPT can be."
How do you know whether you should visit the ER or urgent care?
Whether it's a winter-related injury or sickness around the holidays, health care facilities have been busy recently. The tricky part can be figuring out where to get help.
Is it OK to sleep with your pet?
According to the Academy of Sleep Medicine, almost half of Americans sleep with their pets.
Latest Galleries
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NEXT Weather: Snowstorms of 2022-2023
It's gonna be a long winter, but thanks to WCCO viewers' photo submissions, it's also going to be a pretty one!
Peeking into the homes of Santa Claus, his elves
We've seen it depicted in countless Christmas movies, but now we're getting an inside look at where Santa and his elves live.
The 25 greatest movies ever
Every 10 years, the British film magazine Sight & Sound invites critics to submit lists of their top 10 movies of all time. These are the results of their poll for 2022.
WCCO viewers share their holiday displays
We want to share the joy of the holidays with all of our viewers by sharing your festive displays. Here are some of your best and brightest holiday displays!
The No. 1 movie from the year you were born
Which movie was tops when you had your big premiere?
Weather
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Weather
NEXT Weather: 7 a.m. report
Meteorologist Joseph Dames has the latest forecast on this frigid NEXT Weather day.
NEXT Weather: 10 p.m. report
Saturday morning, it was 30 degrees colder than it was at the same time on Friday. The high temp on Saturday is expected to be 8 degrees, and snow is expected to fall in the south.
NEXT Weather: 5 p.m. report
On Sunday morning, temperatures will drop below zero, and Sunday and Monday will stay below 5 degrees. That puts the state around 20-25 degrees below average.
Tips for beating extreme heat
"The elderly and the really young," said CentraCare sports medicine physician Dr. George Morris. "Those are the two populations that I would worry about most."
What is Next Weather?
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
Latest Videos
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Restaurant recommendations from #BlackFoodieTravelGuy
The #BlackFoodieTravelGuy joins us Sunday morning to talk about his passion and inspiration.
NEXT Weather: 7 a.m. report
Meteorologist Joseph Dames has the latest forecast on this frigid NEXT Weather day.
WCCO digital update: Morning of Jan. 29, 2023
Esme Murphy has the latest headlines.
21st Annual Winter Kite Festival held at Lake Harriet
Kites of all shapes, sizes, colors could be spotted throughout the sky around Lake Harriet Saturday.
Cutest Puppy Contest held in Spring Park
Organizers say more than two thousand people came out to the Cutest Puppy Contest today in Spring Park.