At the southernmost point of Roosevelt Island, in the heart of New York City’s East River, stands a monumental bronze bust of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States. The island was renamed in his honor in 1973, the same year modernist architect Louis Kahn was commissioned to design a memorial to Roosevelt’s “Four Freedoms”: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. Decades later, Kahn’s vision was realized in Four Freedoms State Park, where trees form a triangular approach to the powerful centerpiece—FDR’s likeness framed in granite and sky. In that same spirit of visionary leadership and public purpose, the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy is launching Art X Freedom, a new public art initiative inspired by Roosevelt’s ideals and Kahn’s architectural legacy. The program transforms the park into a platform for artistic expression, civic engagement, and dialogue around freedom and social justice.  Debuting September 10, coinciding with the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly and the anniversary of the end of World War II, Art X Freedom opens with Camouflage, a major site-specific installation by Ai Weiwei. Wrapped in camouflage netting, the 3.5-acre memorial becomes an immersive sanctuary prompting reflection on truth, visibility, protection, and the enduring effects of conflict. Visitors will be invited to add their own messages about freedom, weaving personal voices into the collective artwork. Camouflage is debuting September 10. The date coincides with the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly and the anniversary of the end of World War II. (Iwan Baan) Born in Beijing and now living in Portugal, Weiwei is a contemporary artist and activist. Weiwei left China in 2015 after facing years of government pressure for criticizing its human rights record, and has since established studios in cities around the world. Weiwei’s work blends traditional craftsmanship with bold ideas, driven by a strong stance on authority and history—and freedom. Following Weiwei’s installation, Art X Freedom will commission future artists to design for the site. They will be selected through a juried RFP process.  “This is the first initiative of its kind to transform a presidential memorial into a space for living artistic inquiry,” said Howard Axel, CEO of the Conservancy. Co-chaired by Agnes Gund and Allison Binns, Art X Freedom affirms the enduring power of art to reflect the present—and to help shape a freer, more just future. Roosevelt deeply understood the importance of arts and culture. When he assumed the presidency in 1933, the nation was grappling with the Great Depression. In the years leading up to World War II, Roosevelt introduced the New Deal to revive the economy and create employment. One key initiative was the establishment of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1935, which provided jobs for 8.5 million Americans, including many artists. Across the nation, musicians, actors, dancers, writers, photographers, painters, and sculptors were commissioned to produce public works. Beyond offering economic relief, the WPA made art and culture accessible to everyday Americans. Art X Freedom carries forward a similar vision—investing in creativity and expanding access to the arts.

The First Congregational Church of Abington, Massachusetts, was established in 1711. Besides the First Church, there were three additional churches founded in the town’s other villages: The Second Church in South Abington (now Whitman) Third Church of East Abington (now Rockland), and the Fourth Church at North Abington. This edifice was the third building of the congregation, and was built in 1819. The structure was only used as a church for 30 years until 1849, when the congregation built a new church nearby. This structure was sold and converted to a Masonic Hall and District Court for some years. Major changes to the building include the destruction of the steeple from the Gale of 1869, and in 1885, the present entryway was added, extending about 20 feet from the facade to provide a more adequate stairway to the second floor. Today, the building is used as a church for a local Brazilian congregation.

If you’re familiar with the Japanese art of wood joinery, you’ll likely find kumiko equally intriguing. The traditional craft emerged in the Asuka era between about 600 and 700 C.E. and similarly eschews nails in favor of perfectly cut pieces that notch into place. Intricate fields of florals and geometric shapes emerge, creating a decorative panel that typically covers windows or divides a room. A video from The Process, a YouTube channel exploring various manufacturing sectors and hand-crafted techniques, visits the workshop of Kinoshita Mokuge. Viewers are welcomed into the meticulous, labor-intensive process of producing elaborate, interlocked motifs. Japanese Arts also offered a glimpse into this art form a few years back during an equally calming visit to Kurozu Tetsuo’s studio. Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $7 per month. The article Unwind with the Ancient Japanese Art of Kumiko, a Wood Joinery Technique appeared first on Colossal.

We're well into Spring, which means it's time to start prepping your lawn for Summer gatherings with friends and family. Just like riding mowers, the right push mower can make all the difference in how you care for your lawn, with both gas and battery-powered options, self-propelled models, and multiple configurations for mulching and bagging. Brands like Toro, Cub Cadet, and DeWalt have options for yards as small as a quarter of an acre all the way up to one full acre.Also: The best lawn mowers of 2025 What is the best push mower right now? I chose the DeWalt 2x20V Max as the best push mower on the market. With up to a 90-minute run time while using both batteries or 45 minutes on a single one, adjustable self-propelled speed, and included grass bag. If you're looking for something more budget friendly, the Murray 20-inch push mower retails for under $300. You can keep reading below to find out more about the DeWalt 2x20V Max, Murray 20-inch mower, and my other picks for the best push mowers. Sort by All The best push mowers of 2025 Show less The DeWalt 2x20V Max is a great battery-powered and self-propelled lawn mower that's lightweight, easy to assemble, and even easier to use.Why we like it: Last mowing season, DeWalt sent me the 2x20V Max to test, and it has all but replaced my Husqvarna riding mower. With dual 20V batteries, I can get up to 90 minutes of mowing time if I use both batteries. Or if I just use one, about an hour. And the adjustable pace of the self-propelled feature is nice for saving both battery life and my lungs because I don't have to jog to keep up with it. It also comes with an attachable bag for easy clean-up of clippings.Who it's for: If you've got a yard thats about a half acre or less, and you don't want to mess with mixing two-cycle oil for a gas push mower, the DeWalt 2x20V Max is a great choice. You can use either one or both batteries, so you can keep one on the charger while mowing with the other for continuous use.Who should look elsewhere: If you've got a bigger yard, you might want to think about springing for a rear-engine "mini" riding lawn mower or even a full-sized lawn tractor to help cut down on mowing time.DeWalt 2x20V Max features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Battery | Form factor: Self-propelled push mower | Engine size: N/A | Maximum yard size: 0.5 acre Pros Two batteries included Grass clippings bag included Adjustable speed Dual-blade cutting deck Cons Long charge time for batteries The DeWalt 2x20V Max is a great battery-powered and self-propelled lawn mower that's lightweight, easy to assemble, and even easier to use.Why we like it: Last mowing season, DeWalt sent me the 2x20V Max to test, and it has all but replaced my Husqvarna riding mower. With dual 20V batteries, I can get up to 90 minutes of mowing time if I use both batteries. Or if I just use one, about an hour. And the adjustable pace of the self-propelled feature is nice for saving both battery life and my lungs because I don't have to jog to keep up with it. It also comes with an attachable bag for easy clean-up of clippings.Who it's for: If you've got a yard thats about a half acre or less, and you don't want to mess with mixing two-cycle oil for a gas push mower, the DeWalt 2x20V Max is a great choice. You can use either one or both batteries, so you can keep one on the charger while mowing with the other for continuous use.Who should look elsewhere: If you've got a bigger yard, you might want to think about springing for a rear-engine "mini" riding lawn mower or even a full-sized lawn tractor to help cut down on mowing time.DeWalt 2x20V Max features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Battery | Form factor: Self-propelled push mower | Engine size: N/A | Maximum yard size: 0.5 acre Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less Why we like it: Ego Power+ has made a name for itself in the battery-powered lawn equipment market with its high-quality tools. And the 600 Series electric push mower is no exception. With up to an hour of mow time on a single battery, 7 cutting heights, and 3 functions in one tool (cutting, mulching, bagging).Who it's for: If you're looking to save a bit of money switching from gas equipment to electric, or looking to buy your first mower and want a high-quality model that isn't going to require an entire weekend to learn how to use.Who should look elsewhere: If you need a wider cutting deck for a larger lawn, you might want to check out full-sized riding mowers or even a zero-turn if you have lots of landscaping to mow around. Ego Power+ 600 Series features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Battery | Form factor: Electric push mower | Engine size: N/A | Maximum yard size: 0.5 acres  Pros 3-in1 functionality 7 cutting heights Battery and bag included Cons Short run time Only one battery included Why we like it: Ego Power+ has made a name for itself in the battery-powered lawn equipment market with its high-quality tools. And the 600 Series electric push mower is no exception. With up to an hour of mow time on a single battery, 7 cutting heights, and 3 functions in one tool (cutting, mulching, bagging).Who it's for: If you're looking to save a bit of money switching from gas equipment to electric, or looking to buy your first mower and want a high-quality model that isn't going to require an entire weekend to learn how to use.Who should look elsewhere: If you need a wider cutting deck for a larger lawn, you might want to check out full-sized riding mowers or even a zero-turn if you have lots of landscaping to mow around. Ego Power+ 600 Series features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Battery | Form factor: Electric push mower | Engine size: N/A | Maximum yard size: 0.5 acres  Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less We're all familiar with the typical gas-powered push mower, but technology has come a long way since your dad's time. With a self-propelled feature, you can spend less time wrestling with your mower to get the yard done and more time doing what you'd actually like to do.Why we like it: The 11-inch rear wheels make it easier to navigate uneven terrain, and the included grass bag makes cleaning up easier and holds 1.9 bushels of clippings so you don't have to stop as often to empty it. You can also choose to have a side-discharge or mulching setup depending on how you like to care for your lawn.Who it's for: Since the gas tank on this mower is so small, it's really best suited for lawns no larger than a quarter of an acre. And if you're already using Cub Cadet gas lawn equipment, it will fit in perfectly with your existing lawn care arsenal.Who should look elsewhere: Gas push mowers can be finicky, so if you don't want to mess with mixing two-cycle oil or your local laws limit fossil fuel emissions, you might want to consider a battery-powered push mower.Cub Cadet Signature SCP100 features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Gasoline | Form factor: Gas push mower | Engine size: 163cc | Maximum yard size: 0.25 acres  Pros Self-propelled 1.9 bushel grass bag included 3 year warranty Cons Gas requires two-cycle oil mix Engine requires yearly maintenance We're all familiar with the typical gas-powered push mower, but technology has come a long way since your dad's time. With a self-propelled feature, you can spend less time wrestling with your mower to get the yard done and more time doing what you'd actually like to do.Why we like it: The 11-inch rear wheels make it easier to navigate uneven terrain, and the included grass bag makes cleaning up easier and holds 1.9 bushels of clippings so you don't have to stop as often to empty it. You can also choose to have a side-discharge or mulching setup depending on how you like to care for your lawn.Who it's for: Since the gas tank on this mower is so small, it's really best suited for lawns no larger than a quarter of an acre. And if you're already using Cub Cadet gas lawn equipment, it will fit in perfectly with your existing lawn care arsenal.Who should look elsewhere: Gas push mowers can be finicky, so if you don't want to mess with mixing two-cycle oil or your local laws limit fossil fuel emissions, you might want to consider a battery-powered push mower.Cub Cadet Signature SCP100 features - Cutting width: 21 inches | Power source: Gasoline | Form factor: Gas push mower | Engine size: 163cc | Maximum yard size: 0.25 acres  Read More Show Expert Take Show less Murray 20-inch push mower Push mowers are one of those things you can spend as much or as little as you want. And if you're looking for a solid, budget-friendly model, the Murray 20-inch push mower is a great choice.Why we like it: While it won't blow you away with cool features, the Murray gas push mower gives you a 20-inch cutting width and 5 different cutting heights to help keep your lawn under control all season long. And for about $250, even if you need an emergency replacement for your current mower, you can't hardly beat the price.Who it's for: If you're buying your first push mower or have a very small lawn, you can get a lot of use out of the Murray 20-inch push mower. Ideal for lawns up to half an acre with simple controls and easy pull-cord start.Who should look elsewhere: If you're more experienced with push mowers, you'll want to invest in a more robust model with more features like self-propelled movement or battery power.Murray 20-inch pus mower features - Cutting width: 20 inches | Power source: Gasoline | Form factor: Gas push mower | Engine size: 125cc | Maximum yard size: 0.5 acres  Show more Show less Self-propelled push mowers have become more and more popular over the years as people look for ways to make caring for their lawn easier. And the Toro Recycler Max allows you to set the pace to match your natural walking speed.Why we like it: With a 22-inch cutting deck, it's slightly larger than other push mower models, allowing you to make fewer passes, saving you more time on lawn care. A specially designed suspension system helps reduce shocks and bumps that can cause fatigue and pain in your wrists and hands. And you can choose between regular mowing with side-discharge, mulching, or bagging configurations to fit your lawn care needs.Who it's for: The Toro Recycler Max is rated for lawns up to 1 acre, which is good news for anyone with a larger suburban lawn and doesn't have the space to store and maintain a full-sized lawn mower. The Recycler Max easily folds and hangs to save space in garages and storage sheds.Who should look elsewhere: While this self-propelled lawn mower is rated for up to 1 acre lawns, if your yard has a lot of landscaping or uneven terrain, you might want to consider a rear-engine mini rider or even a full-sized tractor to prevent twisting ankles and other injuries.Toro Recycler Max features - Cutting width: 22 inches | Power source: Gasoline | Form factor: Self-propelled gas push mower | Engine size: 163cc | Maximum yard size: 1 acre Pros Adjustable self-propelled speed Bagger and mulching configurations Folds and hangs for storage Rated for lawns up to 1 acre Cons On the expensive side Requires regular maintenance Self-propelled push mowers have become more and more popular over the years as people look for ways to make caring for their lawn easier. And the Toro Recycler Max allows you to set the pace to match your natural walking speed.Why we like it: With a 22-inch cutting deck, it's slightly larger than other push mower models, allowing you to make fewer passes, saving you more time on lawn care. A specially designed suspension system helps reduce shocks and bumps that can cause fatigue and pain in your wrists and hands. And you can choose between regular mowing with side-discharge, mulching, or bagging configurations to fit your lawn care needs.Who it's for: The Toro Recycler Max is rated for lawns up to 1 acre, which is good news for anyone with a larger suburban lawn and doesn't have the space to store and maintain a full-sized lawn mower. The Recycler Max easily folds and hangs to save space in garages and storage sheds.Who should look elsewhere: While this self-propelled lawn mower is rated for up to 1 acre lawns, if your yard has a lot of landscaping or uneven terrain, you might want to consider a rear-engine mini rider or even a full-sized tractor to prevent twisting ankles and other injuries.Toro Recycler Max features - Cutting width: 22 inches | Power source: Gasoline | Form factor: Self-propelled gas push mower | Engine size: 163cc | Maximum yard size: 1 acre Read More Show Expert Take Show less Latest news on push mowers While gas-powered models are still dominating the market, battery-powered push mowers are gaining popularity as people look for more eco-friendly ways to care for their lawns. Even old-school reel style mowers are making a bit of a comeback because they don't use any gas or electricity, making them some of the most carbon neutral options available. What are the tariffs in the U.S.? The recent US tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and string trimmers may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production. Lawn equipment, which many brands use parts that are manufactured in these nations, may experience price increases of up to 20%, making them less affordable for consumers. Manufacturers contemplate relocating assembly operations to countries with tariff exemptions, but such moves involve logistical challenges and substantial costs. Companies like Stanley/Black+Decker, which source many of their engines and electrical parts from China may be greatly affected as tariffs fluctuate, causing disruptions in the supply chain. Overall, consumers should brace for higher prices and potential shifts in product availability within the home entertainment market. Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest. Also: Tariff exemptions for electronics offer a break for tech - but not for longWhat is the best push mower? I chose the DeWalt 2x20V Max as the best push mower for its double-battery power, 90-minute run time, and ability to switch between side-discharge, mulching, and bagging configurations. The 21-inch cutting width and adjustable self-propelled speed make quick work of lawns up to half an acre. Best push mowerPricePower sourceCutting widthDeWalt 2x20V Max $650 Battery 21 inches Ego Power+ 600 Series $400 Battery 21 inches Cub Cadet Signature SCP100 $400 Gas 21 inches Murray 20-inch push mower $250 Gas 20 inches Toro Recycler Max $550 Gas 22 inches Show more Which push mower is right for you? Just like with full-sized riding mowers, it can be hard to nail down exactly what you need for your yard while shopping for a new push mower. Make sure you pay close attention to the maximum yard size rating and power source so you're not overspending on features you won't use or end up with a model that won't last more than a single season. Buy this best push mower...If you need...DeWalt 2x20V Max A well-rounded, battery-powered push mower with a 21-inch cutting deck, one hour run time, and bagging/mulching capabilities. Ego Power+ 600 Series A high-quality, battery-powered lawn mower for lawns up to half an acre. Cub Cadet SCP100 A gas-powered push mower with mulching and bagging capabilities and a self-propelled feature. Murray 20-inch push mower A budget-friendly push mower with a 20-inch cutting deck for lawns up to half an acre. Toro Recycler Max A high-quality self-propelled push mower for lawns up to 1 acre. Show more Factors to consider when buying a push mower: With so many options to choose from, picking out a new push mower for your lawn care arsenal can feel overwhelming. So here are a few things to keep in mind while you narrow down your options:Price: Knowing your budget before you start looking not only helps keep you from overspending in general, but also helps you find the best balance between price and features. Two mower models may have the same price, but one may have extra features you won't use or conversely, not have everything you need to properly care for your yard.Cutting width: The wider the deck, the fewer passes you must make to finish mowing your lawn. While the vast majority of push mowers have a 21-inch cutting deck, 20—or 22-inch models are available to suit smaller or larger spaces.Power source: Gas engines are still the most popular option for push mowers, but they require yearly maintenance and frequent fueling, which can get pricey as the summer stretches on and gas prices rise as folks travel more. Battery-powered options are more expensive, but they save you money in the long run. Show more How I test and research push mowers: While testing and researching each push mower on this list, other ZDNET experts and I kept these criteria in mind:Comfort and ease-of-use: You're going to be spending a lot of time using your new push mower, and that can become a hassle very quickly if the model you chose doesn't have an ergonomic design or suspension system to help reduce vibrations and shocks. Controls should be easy to understand and within easy reach for quick adjustments on-the-fly or emergency stopping.New features: Brands like to do yearly refreshes of popular models, offering new features like self-propelled movement, battery power, and more cutting configurations. Some even offer larger motors and gas tanks/batteries for longer run times or wider cutting decks for quicker mowing.Storage and maintenance: A push mower needs to be stored properly in order to keep it in good running order season after season. Every mower on this list was chosen for its ability to fold, hang, or otherwise be easily stored during the off-season and in between cuttings. Show more What is the difference between a push and self-propelled mower? It's all in the name. A push mower cannot move forward under its own power and requires a person to actually, well, push it in order to make a complete pass. Self-propelled models act more like cars, with rear-wheel drive and adjustable speeds. Self-propelled models are popular because they take less effort to use, which means you won't be as worn out when you're done mowing your lawn. Show more How long should a push mower last? While there is no hard and fast rule for how long a push mower should last you, it's not unreasonable to expect to get at least five years out of a solid model. But with regular maintenance, cleaning, and proper storage, you could squeeze up to 10 mowing seasons out of your push mower. Show more Latest updates We tested the DeWalt 2x20V in 2024 and added it as our best overall pick for push mowers. We also chose an all-new set of other options to help you find the right fit for your lawn. More push mowers to consider Show less View now at The Home Depot Manual reel mowers are making a bit of a comeback as people look for more eco- and budget-friendly ways to care for their lawn. The 5-blade, 16-inch barrel has four adjustable cutting heights and a lightweight design for easier use. Full Review Read Full Review Scotts reel mower Manual reel mowers are making a bit of a comeback as people look for more eco- and budget-friendly ways to care for their lawn. The 5-blade, 16-inch barrel has four adjustable cutting heights and a lightweight design for easier use. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at The Home Depot One of the biggest names in power tools also has an excellent battery-powered push mower. The LXT uses two 18V batteries for up to 40 minutes of run time and comes packaged with two additional batteries for continuous use. Full Review Read Full Review Makita 18V X2 LXT One of the biggest names in power tools also has an excellent battery-powered push mower. The LXT uses two 18V batteries for up to 40 minutes of run time and comes packaged with two additional batteries for continuous use. Read More Show Expert Take Show less Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

Looking for help with today's New York Times Wordle? Here are hints, clues and commentary to help you solve today's Wordle and sharpen your guessing game.

Editor's take: We already have too much personal information floating around on the internet, and it's seemingly leaked on a monthly basis. So, is having snapshots of your screen taken every few seconds, stored and indexed – even locally – safe? These images could contain sensitive information that anyone with access to your computer can see. To me, it sounds like a bad idea. Let me hear your thoughts in the comments. Microsoft has officially launched its controversial Recall feature, but only for users of new Copilot+ PCs. The AI-powered tool, which captures screenshots every few seconds to build a searchable timeline of on-screen activity, returns nearly a year after Microsoft postponed it following a wave of privacy backlash. This time, the company disabled it by default and made it removable. Unveiled in 2024 alongside Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative, Recall aimed to act as an AI memory for the device. It indexes everything from visited websites to opened documents and past chats, allowing users to "scroll back" in time with natural language queries. However, early builds showed that Recall often captured sensitive material – passwords, private messages, and financial data – without redaction. Security researchers and privacy advocates quickly raised concerns about the tool's implications. Critics warned that if an attacker or malicious software gained access to Recall's local archive, it could expose a user's most private data. Microsoft responded by pulling the feature from preview builds, placing it in beta for five months, and reworking its privacy safeguards. Over the last couple of weeks, Windows Insiders tested the updated version in the preview channel, presumably without complaint. The updated feature launching this week includes several key changes. Most notably, Recall is now an opt-in feature. Users must manually enable it, and data is processed locally on the device – not uploaded to the cloud. Access to Recall's timeline also requires Windows Hello biometric authentication. Microsoft has added controls to pause data capture, exclude certain apps or websites, and delete stored content. Users can uninstall Recall completely through the system settings menu. To do so, go to Settings > System > Installed apps, search for "Recall," and select Uninstall. To opt-in, head to Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & snapshots and toggle the switch. // Related Stories Microsoft is launching Recall exclusively on Copilot+ PCs, a new class of Windows 11 laptops with built-in NPUs for local AI processing. Most existing PCs are not compatible and will not receive the feature.

Table of Contents Table of Contents Definitely, Maybe (2008) Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) King Kong (2005) Before we discuss what’s leaving Netflix, let’s talk about what’s coming. When you read this, Havoc, a new action movie starring Tom Hardy, will be streaming on the service. Next month, a new Vince Vaughn comedy, Nonnas, begins streaming on May 9. Plus, the Fear Street series gains another entry, Fear Street: Prom Queen, on May 24. While those three movies will live on the service for a long time, a handful of movies are leaving Netflix on May 1. One of those movies is Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, an excellent animated film that follows the adventures of Miles Morales. Learn more about Across the Spider-Verse and two other movies below. Recommended Videos We also have guides to the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+. Related Universal Definitely, Maybe must be on the list of Ryan Reynolds’ most underrated movies. Sure, Reynolds’ signature humor and wit are all over this performance. However, this rom-com features the Deadpool actor’s softer side — one with more empathy and compassion. Manhattanite Will Hayes (Reynolds) is currently going through a divorce when his 10-year-old daughter, Maya (Abigail Breslin), asks how he met her mother. Will turns this story into a game by naming three women from his past and changing their names so Maya can guess which woman became her mother. The charming tale becomes a way for Will to reexamine his life as he reminisces about the one who got away. Stream Definitely, Maybe on Netflix. Image via Sony Pictures Animation If Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is Batman Begins, then Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is The Dark Knight. Not only is it one of the most innovative animated movies, but Across the Spider-Verse will eventually be associated with some of the best sequels ever made. In Brooklyn, Miles (Shameik Moore) struggles to balance his personal life with his Spider-Man duties. When the villainous Spot (Jason Schwartzman) is too much for him to handle, Miles and Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld) travel through the multiverse and meet an entire society of Spider-People. However, Miles finds himself at odds with their leader, Miguel (Oscar Isaac), who pits the other Spiders against him. With few allies, Miles must trust his gut and follow his heart to save the multiverse.  Stream Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse on Netflix. Universal Pictures After exploring Middle-earth in the landmark Lord of the Rings trilogy, Peter Jackson tackled the most famous gorilla in cinematic history for King Kong. As a remake of the 1933 movie, King Kong picks up during the Great Depression, with director Carl Denham (Jack Black) setting sail for Skull Island. Joining Carl are actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts), Jack Driscoll (Adrien Brody), and a small crew. After a violent encounter with the natives, the film crew realizes the real threat is Kong, a 25-foot ape and ape predator on the island. Kong kidnaps Ann, but she surprisingly forms a strong bond with the beast while in captivity. It all culminates with a spectacular New York City battle with stunning visual effects that still hold up 20 years later. Stream King Kong on Netflix. Editors’ Recommendations

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All clear Weapons of war are launching from Cape Canaveral for the first time since 1988 Unlike a recent hypersonic missile test, officials didn't immediately confirm Friday's flight was a success. Stephen Clark – Apr 25, 2025 8:21 pm | 6 File photo of a previous launch of the Army's Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on December 12, 2024. Credit: Department of Defense File photo of a previous launch of the Army's Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on December 12, 2024. Credit: Department of Defense Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only   Learn more The US military launched a long-range hypersonic missile Friday morning from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on a test flight that, if successful, could pave the way for the weapon's operational deployment later this year. The Army's Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon fired out of a canister on a road-mobile trailer shortly after sunrise on Florida's Space Coast, then headed east over the Atlantic Ocean propelled by a solid-fueled rocket booster. Local residents shared images of the launch on social media. Designed for conventional munitions, the new missile is poised to become the first ground-based hypersonic weapon fielded by the US military. Russia has used hypersonic missiles in combat against Ukraine. China has "the world's leading hypersonic missile arsenal," according to a recent Pentagon report on Chinese military power. After a successful test flight from Cape Canaveral last year, the long-range hypersonic weapon (LRHW)—officially named "Dark Eagle" by the Army earlier this week—will give the United States the ability to strike targets with little or no warning. The Dark Eagle missile rapidly gained speed and altitude after launch Friday morning, then soon disappeared from the view of onlookers at Cape Canaveral. Warning notices advising pilots and mariners to steer clear of the test area indicated the missile and its hypersonic glide vehicle were supposed to splash down in the mid-Atlantic Ocean hundreds of miles north and northeast of Puerto Rico. Success not guaranteed A US defense official did not answer questions from Ars about the outcome of the test flight Friday. "A combined team of government, academic, and industry partners conducted a test on behalf of the Department of Defense from a test site at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station," the official said. "We are currently evaluating the results of the test." This missile launch and a similar one in December are the first tests of land-based offensive weapons at Cape Canaveral since 1988, when the military last tested Pershing ballistic missiles there. The launch range in Florida continues to support offshore tests of submarine-launched Trident missiles, and now is a center for hypersonic missile testing. The Pentagon has a long-standing policy of not publicizing hypersonic missile tests before they happen, except for safety notices for civilian airplanes and ships downrange. But the Defense Department declared the previous Dark Eagle test flight a success within a few hours of the launch, and did not do so this time. Hypersonic missiles offer several advantages over conventional ballistic missiles. These new kinds of weapons are more maneuverable and dimmer than other missiles, so they are more difficult for an aerial defense system to detect, track, and destroy. They are designed to evade an adversary's missile warning sensors. These sensors were originally activated to detect larger, brighter incoming ballistic missiles, which have a predictable trajectory toward their targets after boosting themselves out of the atmosphere and into space. A hypersonic weapon is different. It can skim through the upper atmosphere at blistering speeds, producing a much dimmer heat signature that is difficult to see with an infrared sensor on a conventional missile warning satellite. At these altitudes, the glide vehicle can take advantage of aerodynamic forces for maneuvers. This is why the Pentagon's Space Development Agency is spending billions of dollars to deploy a network of missile tracking satellites in low-Earth orbit, putting hundreds of sophisticated sensors closer to the flight path of hypersonic weapons. Dark Eagle is designed to fly at speeds exceeding Mach 5, or 3,800 mph, with a reported range of 1,725 miles (2,775 kilometers), sufficient to reach Taiwan from Guam, or NATO's borders with Russia from Western Europe. The US military says it has no plans to outfit its hypersonic weapons with nuclear warheads. In a statement on Thursday, the Department of Defense said the weapon's official name pays tribute to the eagle, known for its speed, stealth, and agility. Dark Eagle offers a similar mix of attributes: velocity, accuracy, maneuverability, survivability, and versatility, the Pentagon said. "The word 'dark' embodies the LRHW's ability to dis-integrate adversary capabilities," the statement said. "Hypersonic weapons will complicate adversaries' decision calculus, strengthening deterrence," said Patrick Mason, senior official performing the duties of the assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics, and technology A US Army soldier lifts the hydraulic launching system on the new long-range hypersonic weapon (LRHW) during Operation Thunderbolt Strike at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on March 3, 2023. Credit: Spc. Chandler Coats, US Army Dark Eagle is the land-based component of the Pentagon's effort to field hypersonic missiles for combat. The Navy will use the same system on its ships to provide a sea-launched version of the hypersonic weapon called Conventional Prompt Strike, which will be placed on destroyers and submarines. The Army and Navy programs will use an identical two-stage missile, which will jettison after depleting its rocket motors, freeing a hypersonic glide vehicle to steer toward its target. The entire rocket and glide vehicle are collectively called an "All Up Round." "The use of a common hypersonic missile and joint test opportunities allow the services to pursue a more aggressive timeline for delivery and to realize cost savings," the Defense Department said in a statement. A long road to get here The Congressional Budget Office reported in 2023 that purchasing 300 intermediate-range hypersonic missiles would cost $41 million per missile. Dynetics, a subsidiary of the defense contractor Leidos, is responsible for developing the Common Hypersonic Glide Body for the Army's Dark Eagle and the Navy's Conventional Prompt Strike programs. Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor charged with integrating the entire weapon system. The military canceled an air-launched hypersonic weapon program in 2023 after it ran into problems during testing. The Pentagon said Army commanders will use Dark Eagle to "engage adversary high-payoff and time-sensitive targets." The hypersonic weapon could be used against an adversary's mobile missile forces if US officials determine they are preparing for launch, or it could strike well-defended targets out of reach of other weapons in the US arsenal. Once in the field, the missile's use will fall under the authority of US Strategic Command, with the direction of the president and the secretary of defense. Defense News, an industry trade publication, reported in February that the Army aimed to deliver the first Dark Eagle missiles to a combat unit before October 1, pending final decisions by the Pentagon's new leadership under the Trump administration. This illustration from the Government Accountability Office compares the trajectory of a ballistic missile with those of a hypersonic glide vehicle and a hypersonic cruise missile. Credit: GAO Dark Eagle suffered multiple test failures in 2021 and 2022, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service. Military crews aborted several attempts to launch the missile from Cape Canaveral in 2023 due to a problem with the weapon's launcher. The program achieved two successes last year with test flights from Hawaii and Florida. The December launch from Cape Canaveral was an important milestone. "This test builds on several flight tests in which the Common Hypersonic Glide Body achieved hypersonic speed at target distances and demonstrates that we can put this capability in the hands of the warfighter," said Christine Wormuth, then-secretary of the army, in a Pentagon statement announcing the result of the test flight. The Dark Eagle readiness tests build on more than a decade of experimental hypersonic flights by multiple US defense agencies. Hypersonic flight is an unforgiving environment, where the outer skin of glide vehicles must withstand temperatures of 3,000° Fahrenheit. It's impossible to re-create such an extreme environment through modeling or tests on the ground. While the Army and Navy hope to soon deploy the first US hypersonic missile for use in combat, the military continues pursuing more advanced hypersonic technology. In January, the Pentagon awarded a contract worth up to $1.45 billion to Kratos Defense & Security Solutions for the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) program. Kratos partners with other companies, like Leidos, Rocket Lab, Firefly Aerospace, and Stratolaunch, to test hypersonic technologies in their operating environment. The program aims for a rapid cadence of suborbital test flights, some of which have already launched with Rocket Lab's Electron rocket. With these experiments, engineers can see how individual components and technologies work in flight before using them on real weapons. The Biden administration requested $6.9 billion for the Pentagon's hypersonic research programs in fiscal year 2025, up from $4.7 billion in 2023. The Trump administration's budget request for fiscal year 2026 is scheduled for release next month. Stephen Clark Space Reporter Stephen Clark Space Reporter Stephen Clark is a space reporter at Ars Technica, covering private space companies and the world’s space agencies. Stephen writes about the nexus of technology, science, policy, and business on and off the planet. 6 Comments