Worst-behaved travelers, strange sea-level changes, postmark problems: Catch up on the day’s stories - CNN

5 Things PM: A Refreshing Start to the Year

As we bid adieu to 2023 and welcome a brand new year, we've got the scoop on the top five things that will help you navigate the world in the coming days. From shocking news stories to fascinating discoveries, here's what you need to know:

1. SpaceX Launches its First All-Civilian Mission

On December 24, 2023, SpaceX launched its first all-civilian mission, dubbed "Inspiration4." The crew of four astronauts, including billionaire businessman Jared Isaacman and his guests, completed a record-breaking 11-day stay in space. This historic mission marked the first time that civilians had traveled to space without being trained astronauts.

Key Facts:

• The Inspiration4 spacecraft was launched from the Kennedy Space Center's Pad 39A.
• The crew spent almost a week in space, during which they completed three orbits of the Earth and conducted two spacewalks.
• The mission aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of commercial spaceflight and inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers.

2. US Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Restrictions

In a surprise move, the US Supreme Court ruled on December 29, 2023, that abortion restrictions in Texas were constitutional. The decision came in response to a challenge from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which argued that the state's ban on most abortions was unconstitutional.

Key Facts:

• The ruling affects approximately 20% of all US pregnancies.
• The ACLU had argued that the Texas law was an unconstitutional infringement on women's reproductive rights.
• This decision has significant implications for abortion access across the United States and around the world.

3. Amazon Acquires a Majority Stake in Roomba-Making iRobot

In a surprise move, Amazon announced on December 26, 2023, that it had acquired a majority stake in iRobot, the maker of Roomba vacuuming robots. The deal valued iRobot at over $1 billion and marked Amazon's entry into the smart home cleaning market.

Key Facts:

• The acquisition gives Amazon control of iRobot's popular Roomba brand.
• iRobot is also known for its Braava mopping robot and Neato vacuuming robot.
• This move positions Amazon as a major player in the smart home industry, which is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

4. European Union Agrees on a New Climate Change Plan

On December 22, 2023, the European Union (EU) agreed on a new climate change plan aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030. The plan, which was finalized after months of negotiations, sets ambitious targets for renewable energy production and carbon capture.

Key Facts:

• The EU's climate change plan is part of a broader effort to reduce Europe's carbon footprint.
• The plan aims to increase the use of renewable energy from 27% in 2020 to at least 82% by 2030.
• This move positions the EU as a global leader in the fight against climate change.

5. World Health Organization Declares Monkeypox a Global Health Emergency

On December 23, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global health emergency due to its rapid spread across the globe. The declaration came after months of growing concern over the outbreak, which has affected over 100 countries.

Key Facts:

• The WHO's declaration acknowledges that the virus poses a significant threat to global health.
• The organization is urging governments and healthcare workers around the world to take precautions against monkeypox transmission.
• This move marks a significant escalation in efforts to contain the outbreak and develop effective treatments.

As we head into the new year, these five stories will shape the world of business, politics, and technology. From space travel to climate change, they demonstrate the complexities and challenges of our rapidly changing world. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to bring you the latest news from around the globe.