How Trump’s Jesus-like image and feud with the Pope are sparking backlash
Trump’s Controversial Image Sparks Debate
President Donald Trump has drawn increasing criticism following a post on Truth Social featuring an AI-generated depiction of him as a Jesus-like figure. The image, which has since been removed, portrayed Trump seemingly performing a healing act on a hospitalized individual. This visual came shortly after he published a detailed critique of Pope Leo XIV, sparking discussions about his religious symbolism and its implications. The BBC’s Sarah Smith delves into the ongoing tension between the president and the pope, as well as how his staunchest backers are responding to the controversy.
Artemis II Crew Breaks Lunar Distance Record
The Artemis II mission has marked a historic milestone, with its crew achieving a new record for the farthest distance from Earth traveled by humans. After a nine-day journey, the four astronauts returned to Earth, completing their orbital path around the Moon. The mission’s distance exceeded the previous Apollo 13 record of 248,655 miles (400,171km), though the crew continues to push further into space.
Jeremy Hansen, Canada’s first astronaut to venture into deep space, received a call from the prime minister during the mission. The crew, aboard the Orion spacecraft, shared personal reflections and updates via video link, emphasizing their connection to loved ones. Astronaut Reid Wiseman, whose wife passed away from cancer in 2020 at 46, highlighted the emotional significance of the mission for the team.
“It is so great to hear from Earth again,” said Christina Koch, one of the astronauts, following reestablished communication after the mission’s peak.
The mission’s primary focus is to test systems and prepare for future lunar landings, with NASA targeting a human landing by 2028. During their 10-day voyage, the crew conducted experiments, including practicing capsule maneuvers, and set a new benchmark for space exploration. Meanwhile, a rare public event unfolded as passengers on a commercial flight witnessed the launch of NASA’s first crewed Moon mission in half a century from just three miles away in Florida.
As the mission progresses, the crew remains in Earth’s orbit, with the spacecraft’s journey entering its third day around the Moon’s far side. The BBC’s Science Editor Rebecca Morelle has engaged with the astronauts ahead of their anticipated splashdown, capturing their insights into the mission’s challenges and triumphs. The Artemis II team’s achievements underscore the U.S. ambitions in space exploration, even as they navigate the complexities of their journey.