Scientists think they've detected lightning on Mars: "Missing piece of the puzzle"
Researchers have documented 55 instances of "mini lightning" over two Martian years by eavesdropping on the whirling wind recorded by NASA's Perseverance rover.
Mars
SpaceX launches 11th Starship megarocket test
SpaceX on Monday launched its 11th test flight of the Starship megarocket, moving the company one step closer to its goal of bringing humans back to the moon and eventually to Mars. CBS News space contributor Christian Davenport has more.
Interstellar comet passing by Mars seen in rare images
The images taken by two Mars orbiters show a bright, fuzzy white dot of the comet, also known as 3I/ATLAS, appearing to move against a backdrop of distant stars.
NASA introduces 10 new astronaut candidates
The new selection of NASA astronauts will spend two years in training before becoming eligible for flight assignments.
The significance of Mars rover's latest discovery
This week, NASA said scientists took the biggest step yet toward discovering whether there was ever life on Mars when a rock sample collected by the Mars rover Perseverance contained potential biosignatures, which could suggest ancient signs of life. Douglas Jerolmack, a professor of Earth and environmental science at the University of Pennsylvania, discusses the significance of the discovery.
Mars rover uncovers strongest hints yet of potential signs of ancient life
NASA's Mars rover Perseverance has uncovered rocks in a dry river channel that may hold potential signs of ancient microscopic life.
Mars rocks may hold signs of ancient life
NASA's Mars rover Perseverance has uncovered rocks in a dry river channel that may hold potential signs of ancient microscopic life, according to scientists. Mark Strassmann reports.
New way to detect signs of life on Mars
Scientists have a new way to detect signs of life on Mars through an already-existing instrument called a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. Derrick Pitts, the chief astronomer and planetarium director at the Franklin Institute, joins with more.
Niger wants answers after largest piece of Mars sold for $5.3 million
The government of Niger has launched an investigation into what they call possible "illicit international trafficking" after a piece of Mars unearthed in the Sahara Desert was sold.
Americans on space race support
Sunday marks the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission -- the first to land humans on the moon. Now, NASA is in a multiyear effort to return astronauts to the moon starting in 2026, with an eye toward a crewed mission to Mars in the 2030s.
Piece of Mars sells at auction
NWA 16788, the largest piece of Mars on Earth, fetched $5.3 million at auction. Franklin Institute chief astronomer and planetarium director Derrick Pitts joins CBS News with more.
Largest piece of Mars on Earth sells for nearly $5.3 million at auction
A 54-pound meteorite from Mars sold for more than $5 million when it went up for auction on Wednesday at Sotheby's.
Mars rock could fetch millions at auction
A piece of Mars is going up for auction this week, and it could go for as much as $4 million.
First close-up images of Mars ridges show "dramatic evidence" of water
The new images by the Curiosity rover on Mars show "dramatic evidence" of ancient groundwater in crisscrossing low ridges, NASA said.
A new class of future NASA astronauts graduates
On Friday, 13 men and women celebrated their completion of NASA's Artemis astronaut training program, and are now candidates for future missions, which could include a trip to the moon and possibly Mars. "CBS This Morning: Saturday" co-host Dana Jacobson spoke with one of the recent graduates about the journey he just completed, and about the amazing ones that could lie ahead.
NASA's Steve Clarke says we might see manned missions to Mars by late 2030
The Deputy Associate Administrator for Exploration at NASA Steven Clark joins Margaret Brennan to discuss NASA's latest mission to Mars and the future of space exploration.
Mars volcano that dwarfs Earth's tallest ones seen in new image
It marks the first time Arsia Mons has been imaged on the planet's horizon, NASA said.
Mars beckons
Mankind has never been closer to setting foot on Mars. NASA is completing construction of its new Mars rover, in readiness for launching next summer, while SpaceX is firing prototypes of its Mars rocket engines, getting ready for short test flights in late 2020. David Pogue reports on the prognosis for manned exploration of the Red Planet, and how human endurance is being tested in a habitat constructed on the slopes of a Hawaiian volcano.
Preview: Mission to Mars
NASA's Mars 2020 mission, which launches for the Red Planet next summer, will feature not just a rover, but also a tiny helicopter that will detach and hover above the Martian surface. David Pogue talked with Mimi Aung, project manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, in this preview of Pogue's report for "Sunday Morning" June 23.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on the next giant leap for mankind
As the founder, CEO and lead designer at SpaceX, a private company that makes rockets and spacecraft, Elon Musk envisions a time when his reusable rockets will bring people to the moon and Mars. He's focused on humans becoming a "multi-planet species," and on the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, he speaks with Jeffrey Kluger (editor-at-large at Time magazine, and the co-author of "Apollo 13") about his vision for the future.
What a gold mine has to do with life on Mars
Belgian biologist Gaetan Borgonie found animal life 2 miles below the Earth's surface. He believes if life can exist there, it might exist on Mars.
Pence details plans to return to the moon before missions to Mars
In an interview with Major Garrett on "The Takeout," Vice President Mike Pence laid out the Trump administration's space policy, including planned missions to return to the moon and venture to Mars. The president, Pence said, "wants to send America on an unalterable trajectory to put astronauts on Mars." Find more of the interview on "The Takeout" podcast on Tuesday, July 23, 2019.
NASA's Mars Perseverance's snaps new selfie with a Martian dust devil
The latest selfie by NASA's Perseverance rover at Mars has captured an unexpected guest: a Martian dust devil.
Study suggests scientists were wrong about dark streaks on Mars
Slope streaks once believed to be signs of water on Mars might really be signs of rockfall and high winds, a new study says.
NASA rover captures giant dust devil devouring smaller one on Mars
The dust devil was about 210 feet wide, NASA said, but likely didn't last long after consuming the smaller whirlwind.
Americans weigh in on cost of living, Trump, expectations for 2026 in poll
More see Trump's policies responsible for economy today than Biden's; there are also concerns about AI impact on jobs.
Thousands of mourners gather at Bondi Beach to honor attack victims
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whose government earlier this year recongized a Palestinian state, was booed by the crowd.
Major outage leaves more than 130,000 customers in San Francisco without power
About 30% of San Francisco was without power at the height of the outage, according to utility provider PG&E.
DOJ releases trove of Epstein files including photos, grand jury testimonies
The Justice Department has released records from the Epstein files, the first documents to come to light under a new law signed by President Trump.
U.S. seizes a second vessel off the coast of Venezuela
It's the second time in recent weeks that the United States has interdicted a tanker, and it comes amid a large U.S. military build-up in Latin America.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
At least 9 killed, 10 wounded in shooting in South Africa, authorities say
"Some victims were randomly shot in the streets by unknown gunmen," the police said of the incident.
Rob Reiner's friends and colleagues share fond and funny memories
Friends and colleagues of Rob Reiner sat down with CBS News to share personal anecdotes and fond memories of him following the news of his tragic death.
U.S.
More U.S.
The enduring message of "It's a Wonderful Life"
Ted Koppel visits Seneca Falls, the Central New York town that's said to have inspired the 1946 Jimmy Stewart classic "It's a Wonderful Life," a film that celebrates smalltown virtues and happy endings, and which still has a powerful hold on our imagination.
Winning numbers announced for estimated $1.5 billion Powerball jackpot
Saturday's jackpot has an estimated cash value of $686.5 million, Powerball said. It's the game's seventh-largest among U.S. lottery jackpots.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
Three officers injured after responding to domestic violence call, police say
The suspect was killed, and the man who called law enforcement was also injured, officials said Saturday.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Rome introduces tourist fee for some Trevi fountain visitors
Tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain are now going to pay more than just the legendary coin toss over their shoulder.
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Trump reaches deal with 9 major drugmakers to lower prices
Nine drug manufacturers will offer their drugs to Medicaid recipients at most-favored-nation discounts in exchange for tariff exemptions.
Judge in nursing home bankruptcy case gives families fresh hope
A bankruptcy judge blocked an attempt by a nursing home chain's primary investor to shield himself from settlement payments and liability in lawsuits over allegations of poor care.
Politics
More Politics
Transcript: Kevin Hassett on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Americans weigh in on cost of living, Trump, expectations for 2026 in poll
More see Trump's policies responsible for economy today than Biden's; there are also concerns about AI impact on jobs.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
"Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" guests for Dec. 21, 2025
This week's guests include Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, who led the push for Friday's release of the Epstein files.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
This professional Santa's dream of spreading holiday cheer fuels stroke recovery
Brent Rasmussen had a massive stroke in 2023. Getting his "ho ho ho back" helped motivate his recovery.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Inside the FDA's vaccine uproar
A memo from Dr. Vinay Prasad, the head of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, may signal an effort to to rewrite the rules governing the U.S. vaccine system.
Trump administration unveils proposals to cut off transgender care for minors
The proposals run counter to the recommendations of most major U.S. medical organizations.
Measles outbreaks worsen in South Carolina, Arizona and Utah
Nationally, the measles case count is nearing 2,000 for a disease that has been considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000, a result of routine childhood vaccinations.
World
More World
Transcript: Kevin Hassett on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Thousands of mourners gather at Bondi Beach to honor attack victims
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whose government earlier this year recongized a Palestinian state, was booed by the crowd.
At least 9 killed, 10 wounded in shooting in South Africa, authorities say
"Some victims were randomly shot in the streets by unknown gunmen," the police said of the incident.
U.S. seizes a second vessel off the coast of Venezuela
It's the second time in recent weeks that the United States has interdicted a tanker, and it comes amid a large U.S. military build-up in Latin America.
A rare look inside LEGO's own secret shrine to the hugely popular toy
To what does LEGO owe its remarkable half-century success story? CBS News visits the toy giant's Denmark headquarters to find out.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet has won three Grammys and sold 10 million albums. Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee talk about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas.
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet Pentatonix has won three Grammy Awards and sold 10 million albums, while their YouTube videos have been streamed more than six billion times. David Pogue talks with group members Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas – and about introducing musical instruments to the mix.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers"
As a holiday treat for "Sunday Morning" viewers, The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," a highlight of Radio City's "Christmas Spectacular" since its debut in 1933.
Technology
More Technology
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
DraftKings hopes to score big with new prediction markets app
Sports betting companies face mounting competition from rapidly growing prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Japanese woman marries AI boyfriend
People are starting to develop lasting connections with artificial technology. Melissa J. Perry, the dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University, joins CBS News with more details.
TikTok nears deal to avoid U.S. ban
TikTok has signed a deal to sell its U.S. operations to a group of investors in America, a source familiar with the deal tells CBS News. Jo Ling Kent has more.
Science
More Science
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Police seek motive in deadly shootings
Authorities are seeking motive after the man responsible for the deadly shooting at Brown University and the murder of an MIT professor was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday.
Epstein survivor on partial files release
The Justice Department released a new batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday. Epstein survivor Sharlene Rochard joins with her reaction. Then, Spencer Kuvin, an attorney who represents some Epstein survivors, provides further analysis.
New photos in initial trove of Epstein files
The Justice Department on Friday released a batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Erica Brown and Katrina Kaufman report.
Investigators struggled to ID Brown suspect while gunman went on to kill again
The manhunt for the Brown University shooter was complicated by the early misidentification of a person of interest and limited, low-quality video footage.
Search for motive in Brown and MIT shootings
The manhunt for the suspect in Saturday's deadly shooting at Brown University is finally over. Police discovered 48-year-old Claudio Manuel Neves Valente dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday night. CBS News' Anna Schecter explains what led to the discovery.
Space
More Space
Space
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
"Wet lava ball" exoplanet may have an atmosphere, evidence shows
Super-Earth TOI-561b is about 40 times closer to its host star than Mercury is to the sun.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
"Son of Sam": A serial killer's reign of terror
Calling himself the "Son of Sam" in a letter left at one of the crime scenes, David Berkowitz claimed voices were ordering him to kill -- starting in the summer of 1976, he went on a 13-month spree of impulse killings in New York City that left six dead and seven injured
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet Pentatonix has won three Grammy Awards and sold 10 million albums, while their YouTube videos have been streamed more than six billion times. David Pogue talks with group members Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas – and about introducing musical instruments to the mix.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers"
As a holiday treat for "Sunday Morning" viewers, The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," a highlight of Radio City's "Christmas Spectacular" since its debut in 1933.
Almanac: December 21
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
The enduring message of "It's a Wonderful Life"
Is civility still alive in Seneca Falls, the Central New York town that fancies itself the inspiration of Bedford Falls, setting of the 1946 Jimmy Stewart film, "It's a Wonderful Life"? Senior contributor Ted Koppel visits Seneca Falls, which holds an annual festival devoted to a Hollywood classic's storybook vision of community; and talks with residents, visitors, and two of the film's surviving actors, who explain why a 79-year-old movie that celebrates smalltown virtues and happy endings still has such a hold on our imagination – while holding a mirror up to our own times.