Skip to main content

Featured

U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

article

Celestial Spectacle: Final Supermoon of 2024 and Meteor Shower Light Up the Sky

 

Stargazers are in for a treat this Friday night as the final Supermoon of 2024 graces the sky, accompanied by the dazzling Leonid meteor shower. This celestial event promises a spectacular display, with the Full Beaver Moon reaching its peak illumination at 4:29 PM EST.

A Supermoon occurs when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. This is the fourth and final Supermoon of the year, and it won’t be until October 2025 that we witness another one.

Adding to the night’s splendor, the Leonid meteor shower will peak, offering the chance to see up to 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions. However, the bright Supermoon may obscure all but the brightest meteors. For the best viewing experience, try to catch the meteors during the early morning hours when the Moon is lower in the sky.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of the year’s most stunning astronomical events. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or just enjoy gazing at the night sky, this Supermoon and meteor shower combination is sure to be a memorable sight.


Comments