During the royal family's Christmas walk at Sandringham, Kate Middleton showed her humorous side when a man's chair broke, asking if he was okay and joking about too many mince pies, while also taking her time engaging with well-wishers and her children.
The Pentagon is tightening control over media access and public engagement, citing vetting processes to align with administration values, which may hinder transparency and public understanding of national security issues, reflecting a more closed-off, appearance-focused approach reminiscent of Trump-era tactics.
Nicole C. Rust emphasizes the importance of scientists communicating their work to the public, not only because it is often publicly funded but also because effective science communication can be highly motivating and beneficial for society. She offers insights and tips on how scientists can start engaging with the public to enhance understanding and appreciation of science.
Researchers in California planned a large-scale, secretive experiment to test solar geoengineering techniques like cloud brightening to potentially dim sunlight and combat climate change, but faced public backlash and regulatory hurdles after initial small-scale tests were conducted without community engagement or transparency.
NASA has issued a notice about a new outreach data collection effort focused on a small segment of the public involved in specific events, raising concerns about the limited scope and effectiveness of their broader public engagement and communication strategies, and highlighting a lack of comprehensive metrics and long-term planning for maximizing their global soft power and educational impact.
The article criticizes NASA's lack of a clear, transparent plan for its education and outreach activities amid significant budget cuts and organizational changes, questioning how the agency will measure success and maintain its global leadership in space exploration.
Speculation over Princess of Wales Kate Middleton's health has grown as she has been absent since undergoing abdominal surgery in January, with reports suggesting she may address her well-being at a public engagement next month. Sources indicate that she and Prince William are keen to be open about her recovery but will do so when they feel ready. Recent sightings suggest she has visited her children's school, and her return to royal duties may coincide with the conclusion of her children's school break in April.
Kate Middleton is expected to address concerns about her health at an upcoming public engagement following her abdominal surgery in January. The palace announced that she would not return to royal duties until after Easter, and friends of the couple expressed disappointment over the public scrutiny and Photoshop controversy surrounding a recent photo. Middleton's last public outing was on Christmas Day, and she is expected to resume royal duties after Easter, with no official health updates until then.
European farmers' protests are a significant political and electoral risk that should not be underestimated, as they highlight the struggles of small and family farmers. The protests have prompted national governments and the EU to adopt agriculture-friendly policies and make concessions, emphasizing the need for better understanding of the distributional effects of policies and more responsive decision-making. The political establishment's reactive response underscores the disconnect between elites and the public, calling for a more honest discussion and genuine engagement to address the grievances of farmers and similar categories.
Marine chemist Christopher Reddy, who played a key role in analyzing the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, discusses the emotional toll it took on him and the importance of not making science one's entire identity. Reddy emphasizes the need for scientists to communicate clearly and responsibly with the media during environmental crises, avoiding speculation and considering the impact of their words on affected communities. He also encourages scientists to engage with the public and influence policy at the local level, where relationships can be built with relevant decision-makers.
The Princess of Wales revealed an affectionate nickname for her youngest son, Prince Louis, as the family participated in The Big Help Out to renovate a building in Slough. The children were encouraged to get involved and were seen painting, drilling, and filling a wheelbarrow with sand. Louis was praised for his hard work and enthusiasm, and his mother affectionately called him "Lou bug" and "poppet." The family also added their handprints to a mural and enjoyed toasting marshmallows. The event was part of a nationwide effort to mark the end of the King's Coronation and promote volunteering.