Science

Giant ancient 'lion' discovered in Kenya

The beast had massive fangs and weighed up to 1,500 kilograms. The bones were found years ago, but had been believed to belong to another animal.  

Five facts about death

The science of dying

Can one explain death objectively and scientifically? When does it begin? What happens afterwards? What do near-death experiences show? Do we have a soul? Five aspects about dying from biology, medicine and physics.  

3D-printed hearts: We'll have to wait a bit longer for the real thing

Heart disease and stroke are the leading killers of people globally. A tiny heart prototype made using a 3D printer shows progress, but scientists say we're a ways off being able to print organs for transplant.  

Stratolaunch

World's largest aircraft completes first test flight

The Stratolaunch aircraft is designed to launch satellites and eventually passengers into space. The plane has two fuselages, 28 wheels, six engines and a wingspan almost double that of an Airbus A380.  

Endangered species

The death of the rare Yangtze giant softshell turtle

The over 90-year-old female turtle died a day after an aborted attempt at artificial insemination. The Suzhou city government said experts have collected the turtle's ovarian tissue for future research.  

Being grateful is good for our mental health — even if it's hard sometimes

When we only focus on what's missing from our lives, we can develop a sense of negativity that's hard to shake. Taking time to appreciate the good stuff — trite as it may seem — is important, especially in tough times.  

You can actually train your "humor muscle"

Can't find anything to laugh about? That's a pity, because according to a new study, laughter actually makes people happier.  

Opinion: Israel is playing politics on the moon

Whether it lands or crashes, Israel's Beresheet moon mission can only score big, politically, says DW's Zulfikar Abbany, as space becomes one of the most competitive domains next to land, air and sea.