Mars science laboratory delayed to 2011

The Mars Science Laboratory mission, originally slated to launch next year, has been delayed until 2011, NASA announced today.

Second-tier jobs will have clout in Obama era

We know who the new secretary of state will be in president-elect Barack Obama's administration. But what about the second-tier appointees who could end up immensely powerful?

$1 million inaugural package for disadvantaged

A Va. businessman has spent $1 million to bring to Barack Obama's inauguration disadvantaged people, terminally ill patients, wounded soldiers and others down on their luck.

Crisis as Canada PM suspends Parliament

Canada's Prime Minister said Thursday that he's been allowed to suspend Parliament, a decision that that allows him to delay a vote that could bring down his new government.

Long-term risk in troop brain injuries
Many of the thousands of troops who suffered traumatic brain injuries in Iraq and Afghanistan are at risk of long-term health problems including depression and Alzheimer's-like symptoms, researchers say.

Jewish settlers, Israeli troops clash

Israeli security forces stormed a disputed house in Hebron on Thursday, dragging out some 250 settlers who barricaded themselves inside and hurled rocks, eggs and chemicals.

Solar car completes first round-the-world trip

The first solar-powered car to travel around the world ended its journey at the U.N. climate talks Thursday, arriving with the message that clean technologies are available now to stop global warming.

Israelis can't escape troubles in world travels
Accustomed to war and instability at home, Israelis have long looked overseas for an escape, earning them a reputation as among the most intrepid — and noticeable — world travelers.

Teen girls charged in nursing home abuse

Two teenage girls who worked at a Minn. nursing home have been charged with abuse, accused of taunting, spitting on and groping residents who suffered from Alzheimer's and other disorders.