December 9, 2025

Japan’s Shichi-Go-San Festival Now Blesses Pets Amid Declining Childbirth Rates

At Tokyo’s Ichigaya Kamegaoka shrine, pets in kimonos join the traditional Shichi-Go-San festival. Once a children’s rite, the event now embraces dogs, reflecting Japan’s low birth rates and a booming pet industry.

December 9, 2025

Mysterious Red Lights From Space Are Rare 'Red Sprites', Not Alien Signals

Bright red flashes seen above thunderstorms are rare electrical bursts called red sprites, confirmed by NASA. Unlike usual lightning, sprites shoot upwards, creating jellyfish-shaped red glows in the upper atmosphere.

December 9, 2025

Delhi's Air Quality Improves Slightly to 'Poor' with AQI 291 on Dec 9

Delhi's air quality improved on Tuesday morning to an AQI of 291, moving from 'very poor' to 'poor'. Weather forecast shows fog and mild temperatures.

December 9, 2025

NSW Keeps Overseas Rehoming of Greyhounds Despite Fatal Risks, Rejects Track Suspension

NSW will continue sending retired greyhounds overseas despite a report finding this practice harmful. The government rejected halting racing if new track safety standards aren't met by year-end.

December 9, 2025

Powerful 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Japan, 23 Injured, Tsunami Hits Coast

A strong 7.5 magnitude quake hit northern Japan late Monday, injuring 23 and causing a tsunami. Authorities warned of aftershocks and higher megaquake risk. Tsunami warnings were later lifted.