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SAVE 20%: As of April 11, the Shark FlexStyle styling and drying system is available at Amazon for just $239, down from $299.99. That's a 20% discount or $60.99 in savings.
Opens in a new window Credit: Shark Shark FlexStyle (HD430) $239 at AmazonIf you’re tired of spending all your cash on salon visits or overrated (and overpriced) hair styling tools, you’re in luck: Amazon’s got a Dyson Airwrap dupe available for 20% off.
As of April 11, you can snag the Shark FlexStyle for just $239, down from $299.99 at Amazon. That’s a savings of $60.99 and a hell of a lot cheaper than the $599.99 you’ll spend on the Airwrap.
SEE ALSO: Dyson Airwrap vs. Shark FlexStyle: Here's which hot air tool is worth your moneyThe Shark FlexStyle is a Mashable Choice Award winner and comes with two Auto-Wrap Curlers, an Oval Brush, a Paddle Brush, and a Concentrator. According to our Lead Shopping Reporter, Bethany Allard, it’s the closest thing to the real deal she’s tried.
“Between the FlexStyle and the Airwrap, it's hard for me to imagine a reason why you'd opt for the latter unless you're into big purchases for the sake of big purchases, or if you're especially loyal to Dyson,” writes Allard. “But if neither of those apply to you, then there's a better vacuum company making hair tech to throw a significantly smaller amount of your money behind.”
SAVE $17: As of April 11, get the Amazon Fire TV Stick (Like New) for $17.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's a discount of 49%.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Stick (Like New) $17.99 at AmazonApril is Earth Month, with Earth Day taking place on April 22. If you're looking for small ways to take care of the environment, buying used or refurbished tech items and reducing tech waste is a good place to start. You can do that at Amazon now, as there are tons of great discounted "like new" tech to snatch up as we speak. Whether you need a new TV or a streaming stick, you can feel good about what you're buying and reducing the amount of tech being sent to landfills.
As of April 11, get the Amazon Fire TV Stick (Like New) for $17.99 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $34.99. That's a discount of $17, or 49%.
SEE ALSO: The Fire TV Cube is $30 off at Amazon for a limited timeThis Fire TV Stick is the previous version that's since been replaced with a new model, but it's still very much worth picking up. The "Like New" designation means it's used, but it's been tested by Amazon and rated "fully functional." According to the retailer, that means it's been given a "full diagnostic test" as well as a thorough cleaning and inspection with data wipes when applicable. Also, any potentially defective parts have been identified and replaced.
You can use it to watch live TV channels, news, sports, and more as well as streaming platforms like Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock, and more, with options for music streaming from Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, and more as well. There's plenty to enjoy here, as well as free options like Tubi, Pluto TV, and more.
This model doesn't serve 4K, but it's a powerful streaming device that you just plug in to your TV and go. It's 50% more powerful than the 2nd generation of the Fire TV Stick, according to Amazon, and it supports full HD with Alexa voice commands and physical power and volume buttons.
It's a great way to save some cash and give a used Fire TV Stick a new life, so consider buying used instead of a new version.
Jack Black, Jason Momoa, Jared Hess, Danielle Brooks, Sebastian Hansen, Emma Myers and Torfi Frans Ólafsson sat down with Mashable to talk A Minecraft Movie and how to "win at life."
A Minecraft Movie opens in theaters nationwide and in IMAX on April 4.
SPEND $80, SAVE $20: As of April 11, spend $80 on P&G essentials at Amazon and get $20 back.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Spend $80, Get $20 Back on P&G Essentials Get DealWorking on a spring refresh for your home? If you've already handled the cleaning part, it might be time to do a big restock. All the essential items, like paper towels, laundry detergent, diapers, and other goodies are just waiting for you to replenish them so you have everything you need at home for just about any situation. Thanks to this Amazon deal, you can do all that and save some money to boot.
As of April 11, spend $80 on P&G essentials at Amazon and get $20 back. Simply add $80 of eligible items, found at the deal promo page, to your cart. You can watch as the meter at the top of the page fills up as you reach your $80 total. Then check out as usual. You'll get an email when your order has shipped, and your credit will apply to your Amazon account. This is not an instant credit off of your total like similar deals, so keep that in mind.
You can get just about anything P&G sells during this promotion, including Bounty paper towels, Pampers diapers, Charmin toilet paper, Tide pods, Swiffer dusters, Gillette razors, Olay skincare, and much more. Many of the items on offer come in bulk packages as well, so you can grab essential items for the whole family, up to and including tampons and intimate items.
You only get to apply this deal once per order, but once you've completed a single checkout, you can come back to do it again if needed. It's a pretty significant credit, and these days, any little bit helps.
SAVE $60+: April 11 is National Pet Day. Spoil your fur baby and save $60 or more with today's top deals from Chewy, Amazon, and more.
Best National Pet Day deals Best pet toy deal Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy (Medium, 2-pack) $8.95 (save $6.04) Get Deal Best pet bed deal Serta Ortho Cuddler (large) $67.49 (save $7.50) Get Deal Best pet tech deal Tractive Dog GPS Tracker $19.99 (save $30) Get DealAs a proud dog mom of two beagles, I'm always looking for a good deal on the essentials (e.g., puppy pads, dog food, and treats). I honestly can't go into any store without picking up at least two toys for the pups.
So, you can bet that National Pet Day is a holiday circled on my calendar. It's the perfect excuse to spoil your fur baby with toys, treats, and maybe a new orthopedic dog bed without breaking the bank. (My pups have the Serta Ortho Cuddler, and they love it.)
SEE ALSO: Attention pet owners: The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum is over $80 off at AmazonTo help you celebrate, I rounded up some of the best National Pet Day deals from Chewy, Amazon, and more retailers on April 11.
Best toy deal Opens in a new window Credit: ChuckIt! Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy (Medium, 2-pack) $8.95 at ChewyMy dogs go wild for these Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Balls. They're super bouncy and impressively tough. And right now, you can get the Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy (Medium, 2-pack) for just $8.95, down from $14.99, at Chewy.
If fetch is big in your household, you can get a launcher to make throwing even easier (it's $17.04 for two balls and a medium launcher).
Bonus deal: Chewy is offering new customers a $20 eGift card and free shipping when they spend $49 or more with the code WELCOME. Or, spend $30 and get a $10 eGift card with code TOYBOX.
More pet toy dealsMultipet Loofa Dog The Original Squeaky Plush Dog Toy (Medium) — $4.99 $6.89 (save $1.90)
KONG AirDog (Large) — $5.39 $15.99 (save $10.60)
Lamb Chop Squeaky (Regular) — $6.99 $12.59 (save $5.60)
Ethical Pet Skinneeez Extreme Unstuffed Cow Squeaky — $8.82 $12.49 (save $3.67)
Catstages Kitty Cube Cat Treat Puzzle Toy — $9.79 $11.99 (save $2.20)
SunGrow Boredom & Separation Anxiety Relief Stimulation Treat Dispensing Toy — $9.99 $10.99 (save $1)
MidWest Catty Scratch Cat Scratcher with Catnip (Large) — $11.97 $19.99 (save $8.02)
Pet beds can be expensive and hard to upkeep if your dogs are inherently destructive (my beagles have eaten countless beds, pillows, and blankets over the years). But sometimes, you can find discounts that make giving your pets the cozy spot they deserve easier.
The Serta Ortho Cuddler (Large) is currently on sale for $67.49, down from $74.99, at Kohl’s. I can say from experience that this one is well worth the cost.
It’s made with a removable orthopedic foam base and has supportive bolsters for your pet to snuggle up against. To wash it, all you have to do is take out the base and toss the cover in the washing machine. (I’ve washed mine numerous times, and it’s held up surprisingly well.)
Best pet tech deal Opens in a new window Credit: Tractive Tractive Dog GPS Tracke $19.99 at ChewyI’m constantly worried about my beagles escaping, either by digging under the fence or somehow opening the door. That’s why I bought my puppy a bumper and have AirTags attached to both of their harnesses.
But today, I found something that looks a little more reliable than my makeshift system: The Tractive Dog GPS Tracker is currently on sale at Chewy for just $19.99, down from $49.99. That’s a great deal and a small price to pay for some peace of mind.
This tracker attaches to any collar and has an accompanying app to create a “virtual fence” around your home. You’ll get an immediate notification on your phone whenever your pup goes outside of that zone.
The app will also track your pet’s activity levels (including how many calories they burn) and location history. There’s no limit to the range, and the tracker is waterproof. But it does look like you’ll have to pay a monthly fee for a subscription plan to use it.
More pet tech dealsiProven Dog & Cat Thermometer — $9.97 $14.97 (save $5)
Automatic Pet Water Fountain — $29.99 $34.99 (save $5)
PETLIBRO Cordless Pet Water Fountain — $59.49 $99.98 (save $40.49)
Furbo 360-degree Pet Security Camera — $64 $99 (save $35)
PETLIBRO Automatic Pet Feeder with Camera — $105.99 $159.99 (save $54)
GET $200 AND A FREE HEADSET: As of April 11, Samsung is offering a $200 credit and a free JBL headset to those who preorder their latest 3D gaming monitor — get the Samsung Odyssey 27-inch 3D 4K Gaming Monitor for $1,999.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Odyssey 27-inch 3D 4K Gaming Monitor $1,999.99 at SamsungBuilding a gaming PC is a rewarding experience, but it also takes a lot of time and money to get just right. Unlike a console, you'll need to buy a bunch of different accessories and peripherals to actually complete your rig, including a keyboard, mouse, a desk to house it all, and more. Perhaps one of the most important pieces of the puzzle, though, is a good monitor.
If you're looking to add a new one to your PC setup, Samsung is offering a great deal on its latest 3D gaming monitor. Preorder one, and get a $200 credit to the Samsung store, as well as a JBL Quantum One headset (a $299.95 value). The Samsung Odyssey 27-inch 3D 4K Gaming Monitor officially releases on April 28.
SEE ALSO: Nintendo Switch 2 tariff impacts: What we know so farImmersion is the name of the game with this monitor. The 4K display uses eye-tracking technology to produce 3D images without the need for any glasses, allowing you to stay in the game without anything weighing you down. It's also spatial-audio-enabled thanks to its built-in dual speakers, has a 165Hz refresh rate, and features edge lighting that mirrors whatever is on the screen. Preorder the monitor ahead of the April 28 release date to redeem the $200 credit and free headset.
While some tech prices are rising due to tariffs, we've got our eyes on the products that are dropping in cost. Fortunately, there are still deals hanging around on Amazon — and we suggest grabbing them while you can if you're in the market for upgrades.
Here are our top picks for the best Amazon deals of the day on April 11. If none of these are catching your eye, be sure to check out our selections from April 9 and April 10. Many of those deals are still live, including 50% off the Blink Video Doorbell and the lowest price to date on the Fitbit Google Ace LTE.
Our top pick: Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ (64GB, WiFi) $155.19 at AmazonWhile we just featured the Galaxy Tab A9+ a couple of days ago, we were pleasantly surprised to see that the budget tablet dropped another $2 on April 11. That makes it just $155.19 instead of $219.99, saving you just shy of 30%. Reliable and sturdy, the Galaxy A9+ can handle your everyday tasks proficiently. It packs an 11-inch display, expandable storage up to 1TB, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor, and quad speakers powered by Dolby Atmos. Our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) dubbed it the "best low-cost Android tablet you can buy" last year.
Amazon Echo Spot + free WiZ smart bulb Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Echo Spot + free WiZ Smart Bulb $64.99 at AmazonShy of a year old, the Echo Spot serves as a sleek, smart alarm clock to help you wake up and wind down each day. Thankfully, it doesn't have an integrated camera, as that would be hella creepy. It does, however, show you the time, weather, song titles, and more at a glance and lets you control your smart devices with your voice — including the WiZ smart bulb you can snag for free with this deal. As of April 11, the $79.99 price tag has been slashed to just $64.99 at Amazon.
Bose QuietComfort earbuds Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort earbuds $149 at Amazon"They may not be perfect, but if the Bose QuietComfort earbuds fit your ears, you'll be hard-pressed to find earbuds with better sound quality and battery life than these," Mashable's reviewer Bethany Allard writes in her review. The QuietComfort buds offer 8.5 hours of listening, customizable EQ settings, customizable tap controls, and Bose-quality sound. Plus, they're on sale for just $149 instead of the usual $179. That's 17% in savings.
Read our full review of the Bose QuietComfort earbuds.
Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus tablet with wireless charging dock Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus with wireless charging dock $89.98 at AmazonIf money's tight, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is a basic tablet that will still get the job done. It'll last you up to 13 hours per charge, features a strengthened aluminosilicate glass display and hexa-core processor that's 30% faster than the previous model, packs 3GB of RAM, and offers USB-C charging. Ultimately, it's a "great introductory tablet for anyone interested in entertainment functions like streaming, social media, and reading on the go," Mashable's reviewer writes. As of April 11, you can get it bundled with a wireless charging dock for only $89.98. That's 47% in savings.
Read our full review of the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus.
None of these deals catching your eye? Check out Amazon's daily deals for even more savings.
AVAILABLE NOW: Get the Google Pixel 9a smartphone for $499 at the Google Store.
Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel 9a $499 at GoogleIt's been just over six months since Google launched the new Pixel 9 generation of Android smartphones. On February 25, Google announced the Pixel 9a. Now, the wait is finally over. You can snag one of the newest Pixel devices for yourself by way of the Google Store.
Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Pixel 9a priceThe Pixel 9a fits in as the most affordable of the Pixel 9 devices, which sets it up as an entry-level phone below the base Pixel 9 model.
The Pixel 9a retails at $499, which makes it $300 less than the Pixel 9, the previous lowest cost current generation Pixel device.
Credit: Joe Maldonado / Mashable Pixel 9a specs: Everything you need to knowDon't let the price difference between the Pixel 9a and the Pixel 9 fool you. Google has packed the Pixel 9a with plenty of power.
In fact, the Pixel 9a is powered by the same Google Tensor G4 processor that you'll find inside the Pixel 9. This is the same processor that was created specifically for Google's intensive AI capabilities, so you'll find all of the Pixel 9's AI features in the Pixel 9a, including Magic Edit and Gemini AI Assistant.
The Pixel 9a has a 6.3-inch scratch-resistant Actua display with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 cover glass.
When it comes to memory, the Pixel 9a has 8GB of RAM and provides two different storage options, 128 GB or 256 GB.
Storage size isn't the only option you'll have to choose from when buying a Pixel 9a. The Pixel 9a comes in 4 different colors: Iris, Peony, Porcelain, and Obsidian.
Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableWith over 30 hours of battery life and 7 years of guaranteed Pixel updates, the Pixel 9a is built to last.
When it comes to the rear cameras, the Pixel 9a has a 48 MP main camera and 13 MP ultrawide camera. But, there's even more that sets Pixel 9a's cameras apart from the rest.
So long, camera bump Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableOne of the most interesting features of the Google Pixel 9a isn't what it has, but what it doesn't.
The Pixel 9a has a flat back design, meaning no camera bump.
The Pixel 9a is the only Pixel phone to sport a flat back profile. In fact, the Pixel 9a doesn't have the now-classic Pixel camera bar either. Instead, the back of the device is flat with the cameras found within a rounded water droplet-like design on the upper left hand side of the Pixel 9a.
Credit: Joe Maldonado / MashableWithout the camera bump, the Pixel 9a is unique not only among other Pixel phones but other smartphones as well.
Anker — the popular electronics company known for its headphones, speakers, power banks and more — has begun raising prices on its Amazon product listings amid new US tariffs. So far, over 120 of Anker's product listings have been affected. The Chinese company is one of the largest sellers on Amazon's platform.
SEE ALSO: How 'fake news' about tariffs posted on Elon Musk's X shifted trillions in the marketsSince President Trump announced massive tariffs on Chinese imports (which currently stand at 145%), those affected Anker products have seen an average price increase of 18%. This isn't the first company we've seen react strongly to the new tariffs, and it's possible it won't be the last. Just last week, gaming company Nintendo delayed preorders of the highly anticipated Switch 2 to assess the effect the tariffs would have on the new handheld console.
This story is still developing and could change in either direction, but you can expect pricing on all imported products to be volatile during this time.
OK Go is back with a new music video, and you know that means it's going to be mind-blowing. Sixteen years ago, they went viral with treadmills in the inventive "Here It Goes Again." In 2014, the quartet did quirky choreography while riding Honda UNI-CUBs for "I Won’t Let You Down," then two years later, they shot a whole dance video on an actual plane in zero gravity for "Upside Down & Inside Out." So how do they top themselves? With the help of robots.
The American rock band has partnered with Universal Robots to bring to life the dazzling concept for their latest, "Love," a music video for the title track from their new album And the Adjacent Possible. Man and machine dance together and with mirrors in their latest eye-popping video. But how did this all come together?
The exclusive video above takes fans behind the scenes of the shoot in a Budapest train station. The concept for the "Love" video emerged through a partnership with creative agency SpecialGuest, and was co-directed by Damian Kulash (OK Go's lead singer), Aaron Duffy, and Miguel Espada, and produced by 1stAveMachine, with technology integration by SpecialGuestX.
In a time where controversy brews around emerging tech entering creative spaces, Kulash makes the argument for using these Universal Robots to construct his visual expression. "What I care about is the ability to express an emotion and connect with other humans," the OK Go frontman explains in the behind-the-scenes video. "And what's amazing here is I think we're able to connect with humans in a new way because of the robots. They're letting us do something that humans simply couldn't."
Still, it took time and coordination to get "Love" just right. In a statement, Espada told Mashable, "It took 39 takes to get it right. The robots performed flawlessly — what made it challenging was coordinating 60 people around them in a single, continuous shot. It wasn't just about precision; it was about creating a choreography where mirrors, machines, and human movement came together to evoke something emotional."
“Honestly, we almost didn’t get it. It had to be one take — no exceptions," Andrew Geller, Executive Producer of “Love” from global production company 1stAveMachine shared in a statement. "Thirty industrial robots, all moving in perfect synchronization, with precision angles that left zero room for error. If we were even inches off our marks, the entire sequence would fall apart."
He went on to champion OK Go and directors Damian Kulash, Aaron Duffy, and Miguel Espada, saying they "pushed this creative to the absolute edge, and watching it all come together — against all odds — was nothing short of magic.”
And the Adjacent Possible is out now.
SAVE $30: As of April 11, the Fire TV Cube is on sale at Amazon for $109.99, 21% off its list price of $139.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Amazon Fire TV Cube (newest model) $109.99 at AmazonWith so many exciting shows and films dropping on streaming services soon, you want to make sure you've got everything you need to kick back and watch them. If you're looking for a little upgrade to your streaming setup, Amazon's Fire TV Cube is on sale right now at the retailer. With it, you can enjoy a high-quality picture on your TV for less.
The Fire TV Cube has been marked down from its list price of $139.99 to $109.99, offering a 21% discount. It's worth keeping in mind that it's listed as a limited time deal at the moment, so if you've had your eye on it now is the time to pick it up.
SEE ALSO: Enjoy incredible works of art on your TV with the 65-inch Samsung The Frame, now $500 off at Best BuyThis streaming device is worth the investment, too. Featuring support for Wi-Fi 6E and 4K Ultra HD resolution, streaming your favorite shows and films will come across smoothly and with a crisp picture quality. The Fire TV Cube also supports Dolby Vision, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio for those nights when you want to transform your space into a mini movie theater.
This limited-time deal may not last for long, so act fast to save on the Fire TV Cube at Amazon.
This isn't the only streaming device of Amazon's that's discounted right now. At the moment you can also save on the Fire Stick 4K Max and the Fire Stick 4K, if you're looking to spend a little bit less on streaming devices.
SAVE $230: As of April 11, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is on sale at Best Buy for $419.99, 35% off its list price of $649.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Samsung - Galaxy Watch Ultra Titanium Smartwatch 47mm LTE - Titanium Silver $419.99 at Best BuyIf you're an outdoorsy person and this warmer weather has you itching to get back out on some adventures, you'll want a smartwatch that can keep up with you. While some of the more premium smartwatches come with hefty price tags, occasionally you can score some nice deals on various models. At the moment, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has been marked down over $200 at Best Buy, which is well worth taking advantage of.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has been marked down from its list price of $649.99 to $419.99, allowing you to keep $230. This discount has been applied to multiple color options as well, so you can choose between the titanium silver smartwatch with a dark gray marine band, the titanium gray smartwatch with an orange marine band, the titanium white smartwatch with a white marine band, and the titanium gray smartwatch with a dark gray marine band.
SEE ALSO: The best smartwatch for every wristThis smartwatch is a perfect fit for people with a very active lifestyle, as its durable build can handle any adventure you take it on. It boasts a wide variety of health and fitness features to help you stay on top of your goals as well, including an Energy Score that shows you how ready you are to take on the day based on stats related to the previous day's sleep patterns, heart rate, and steps. In our hands-on review, we noted that, "It can reportedly handle temperatures between -4 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can tolerate deep-sea diving and other challenging environments."
If you've been looking for the ultimate smartwatch upgrade, this deal on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is worth a look.
Looking for more smartwatch deals? There are a couple more Samsung options on sale right now that are worth a look. Also at Best Buy, you can save on the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch7 right now, and at Amazon, the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is 20% off at the moment.
Two years ago, a star on its deathbed was charged with a heinous act — eating a planet — in a system 12,000 light-years away from Earth.
But new evidence has emerged in the case that astronomers say exonerates this elderly Milky Way star of the crime. Using the James Webb Space Telescope, a collaboration of NASA and its European and Canadian space counterparts, a team observed that while the planet did die in the belly of a stellar beast, it didn’t go down the way they once thought.
Rather than the star bloating into a red giant that then swallowed the Jupiter-sized world, the planet’s orbit had slowly shrunk, bringing it ever closer to its star. Eventually, the planet collided with the star.
It all boils down to culpability, and it seems, at least in this case, the distant planet essentially jumped down the star's throat.
"So the star actually did eat the planet, just not in the way we initially thought," Ryan Lau, an astronomer at the National Science Foundation's NOIRLab, told Mashable, "and it was maybe more the planet's fault."
SEE ALSO: Is there any hope for Earth after the sun dies? A glimmer. An artist's depiction of a planet grazing a star just before being completely engulfed. Credit: K. Miller / R. Hurt (Caltech / IPAC) illustrationIn the past, astronomers have found evidence of stars that have consumed planets, sometimes by doing a sort of post-mortem autopsy on what's left of the dead star. But research previously published on this particular event in the journal Nature presented the first direct evidence of a star engulfing a planet as it happened.
The incident was first seen five years ago as a sudden bright flash of visible light, which scientists named ZTF SLRN-2020. Later, they noticed that the star had already started to glow in infrared a year earlier — a clue that there was dust nearby, possibly in the wake of a destroyed planet.
They thought the star had turned into a red giant, a late stage in a star’s life when it grows much larger and can swallow nearby planets. Scientists have suggested it's likely the fate of the sun and Earth. But the new data from Webb revealed a twist: The star hadn't brightened as it would if it had indeed expanded.
That meant the star stayed about the same size — and the planet, roughly the size of Jupiter, came to it. Over millions of years, the planet edged closer and closer. Eventually, it grazed the star’s outer atmosphere until it was completely reeled in. The results and new conclusions are published in The Astrophysical Journal.
The collision caused a giant explosion, creating a swirling disk of gas and dust. By studying the aftermath, Webb detected molecules like carbon monoxide around the star.
"The planet eventually started to graze the star’s atmosphere. Then it was a runaway process of falling in faster from that moment," said Morgan MacLeod of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, in a statement. "The planet, as it’s falling in, started to sort of smear around the star."
As a Jupiter-sized planet passes through its star’s atmosphere, its orbit shrinks, eventually colliding and spewing material into a ring around the star. Credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / Ralf Crawford illustrationUnlike giant stars that explode into a supernova and collapse into a black hole, a medium star like the sun suffers a more tortured end by dying slowly. A so-called "planetary nebula" — a confusing misnomer because stars cause them, not planets — is a phenomenon made from the molted layers of an elderly star. Such spectacular clouds of gas and dust occur when a star withers away as it loses nuclear fuel.
Astronomers expect this is the future of the sun in about 5 billion years, though scientists still have a lot to learn about these events.
It would be impossible to watch a single star go through its entire lifecycle for obvious reasons: That would take billions of years, said Paul Sutter, a professor at Stony Brook University and author of How to Die in Space, in a 2022 interview with Mashable. But experts have been able to predict this kind of death for some planets by studying many stars at different intervals and how they interact with their surroundings at each age.
"It's like taking a snapshot of everyone on the Earth in one moment. You can't capture one person's lifetime, but you can see people being born, you can see people playing soccer in elementary school, and you can see people getting married. You can see people dying, getting sick," said Sutter, who wasn't involved in the new study. "You can reconstruct the life cycle of a person by putting together all these separate pieces, so we have a general picture of how stars evolve and how they live."
Webb's investigation of the gas in the aftermath prompts more questions for researchers about what actually transpired once the star swallowed the planet. Scientists hope to find and study others to collect more data.
In order to make the ultimate Saxon-style protein shake, you need a few key ingredients.
Appearing on The Tonight Show in the clip above, Saxon himself (aka The White Lotus star Patrick Schwarzenegger) demonstrates how it's done, from the copious quantities of protein powder to the slightly unnerving laughter.
Chef's kiss.
SAVE $30: As of April 11, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are on sale at Amazon for $149, 17% off their list price of $179.
Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds $149 at AmazonWarmer weather has arrived, and if you're spending more time outdoors, it's nice to have a pair of earbuds to keep you company. If you're looking to buy some new ones, there are some great deals to check out right now. One of our picks from our list of the best earbuds to buy in 2025, the Bose QuietComfort earbuds, are actually on sale at Amazon, so you can enjoy high-quality sound at a lower price.
The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are on sale right now for $149 at Amazon, 17% off their list price of $179. This deal applies to multiple colors as well so you can choose between the black earbuds, chilled lilac, or white smoke. They're currently listed as a limited time deal, though, so if they catch your eye there's no better time than now to add them into your virtual shopping cart.
SEE ALSO: Enjoy some music outside with the Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Speaker (2nd Gen), now 20 percent off at AmazonBoasting excellent sound quality and noise-canceling features, the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds will completely immerse you in the sounds you're listening to. As mentioned before, we consider them the best mid-budget pick in our roundup of the best earbuds, saying, "The QuietComfort’s sound quality is just phenomenal. With these earbuds, listening to Ethel Cain’s A House in Nebraska immersed me in the orchestrations. When Brick House by The Commodores came on, the earbuds elevated the snappy drum beats so that I may have been listening live."
On top of their sound quality, they also offer up to 8.5 hours of battery life so you can listen to your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks for longer between charges.
Treat yourself to some new earbuds with this deal on the Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds at Amazon.
If you're curious to see more earbuds on sale right now, you can also save on the Beats Studio Buds + at Amazon and the Sony WF-C700N earbuds have been discounted there as well.
When colossal asteroids rock Earth, it's not all doom and gloom.
The menacing asteroid that wiped out non-avian dinosaurs left a colossal marine crater in what's now the Yucatan Peninsula. But after analyzing deeply drilled rock core from the impact site created by the six-mile-wide asteroid, geologists have found compelling evidence that life soon thrived in the basin following the seismic episode.
The asteroid's impact stoked nutrients and chemicals to be released from beneath the seafloor, a process called hydrothermal activity. Similar activity naturally occurs today in the deep sea, where hydrothermal vents emit superheated chemical-rich fluid into the water, feeding unique colonies of life, including huge tubeworms, crabs, fish, microorganisms, and beyond.
"This study reveals that impact cratering events, while primarily destructive, can in some cases also lead to significant hydrothermal activity,” Steven Goderis, a researcher at Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium who co-authored the study, said in a statement. “In the case of Chicxulub, this process played a vital role in the rapid recovery of marine ecosystems.”
SEE ALSO: NASA dropped a new report. It's a wake-up call.The research was published this week in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications.
The colossal impact event, which triggered a mass extinction event over much of Earth's land and ocean environments, also filled the present-day Gulf of Mexico with nutrients for at least 700,000 years, the researchers concluded.
In the core drilled from the impact site, called "Chicxulub crater" (which you should Google for a novel Google-created search result), researchers found a ratio of the metallic element osmium that is associated with asteroid remnants. When the asteroid struck this region, its pulverized particles — which contained osmium — mixed beneath the seafloor and were emitted into the water, before eventually settling back down on the seafloor. When scientists drilled into the ocean bottom, they brought up this ancient seafloor, revealing that hydrothermal fluid containing asteroid remnants flowed into the gulf for hundreds of thousands of years.
The impact, which precipitated widespread hydrothermal activity, ultimately created a nutrient-rich oceanic bath, the researchers say.
A graphic showing how the environment in the Chicxulub crater following the impact could have spawned rich hydrothermal activity in the enclosed Gulf of Mexico. Credit: Sato et al. A gravity anomaly map of the Chicxulub crater in the Yucatan Peninsula. Credit: NASA Shuttle Radar Topography Mission"After the asteroid impact, the Gulf of Mexico records an ecological recovery process that is quite different from that of the global ocean, as continuous hydrothermal activity has created a unique marine environment," Honami Sato, an earth scientist at Japan's Kyushu University who led the research, explained.
If such a cataclysmic event could create extremely habitable conditions on a region of Earth, the same might happen on other worlds, too. It could happen on ocean moons, or in a related way, perhaps even on desert worlds. Mars, for example, is a planet bombarded with meteor strikes. Such impacts could melt the plentiful water ice in parts of Mars' subsurface, creating an inviting environment for microbes to thrive.
The risks of an asteroid impactFortunately for us earthling land-dwellers, the odds of a cataclysmic space rock impact are exceedingly small. Here are today's general risks from asteroids or comets both tiny and very large. Importantly, even relatively small rocks can still be threatening, as the surprise 56-foot (17-meter) rock that exploded over Russia and blew out people's windows in 2013 proved.
Every single day about 100 tons of dust and sand-sized particles fall through Earth's atmosphere and promptly burn up.
Every year, on average, an "automobile-sized asteroid" plummets through our sky and explodes, according to NASA.
Impacts by objects around 460 feet (140 meters wide) in diameter occur every 10,000 to 20,000 years.
A "dinosaur-killing" impact from a rock perhaps a half-mile across or larger happens on 100-million-year timescales.
SAVE $361.99: As of April 11, Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition 51mm smartwatch is available for $738 at Amazon. That’s 33% off its regular price of $1,099.99.
Opens in a new window Credit: Garmin Garmin epix Pro Gen 2 Sapphire Edition (51mm) $738 at AmazonI want a smartwatch that doesn’t just count steps and look vaguely sporty. I want something that could double as my wilderness survival kit if it had to. Garmin’s epix Pro Gen 2 Sapphire is exactly that and it’s currently $738 at Amazon, which is $362 off the usual price of $1,099.99. That’s not a casual discount. That’s the kind of cut that could replace half your gear bag.
This thing is unapologetically overbuilt, and I mean that in the best way. A scratch-resistant sapphire lens, titanium bezel, and a 1.4-inch always-on AMOLED display that somehow looks crisp even when you're drenched in sweat. It’s designed for larger wrists, sure, but it’s not clunky. It’s confident.
SEE ALSO: Live your Kawaii gamer dreams with this discounted Logitech POP ICON keyboard and mouse comboOne of my favorite ridiculous-but-useful features? The built-in flashlight. Not a metaphorical one. An actual LED with strobe modes. Try navigating a campsite or fumbling with gear in the dark and tell me that’s not genius.
Then there’s the training tech. Hill score and endurance score features track how strong you are on inclines and how all your workouts stack up into real-world stamina. Garmin has basically turned this thing into a wearable sports psychologist with its 24/7 health tracking, sleep insights, and morning reports that synthesize your readiness for the day like some kind of wrist-mounted oracle.
Price: $738.00 $1,099.99
Retailer: Amazon
Size: 51mm
Display: 1.4-inch always-on AMOLED
Lens: Scratch-resistant sapphire
Bezel: Titanium
Battery Life: Up to 16 days (384 hours)
Health Features: HRV, Pulse Ox, advanced sleep tracking, morning report
Fitness Features: Hill score, endurance score, strength training, running power
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
Compatibility: Android and iOS
Extras: Built-in flashlight, GPS, touchscreen, notifications, gesture control
It even tracks wrist-based running power, strength workouts, and has pacing tools dialed in for race day. So yes, you’re covered if you’re running a trail marathon or just want your smartwatch to flex harder than you do.
I think if you’ve been circling the idea of upgrading to a true performance smartwatch, this is the kind of deal that makes it a whole lot easier to say yes.
SAVE $369.96: As of April 11, Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 is available for $129.99 at Woot. That’s 74% off its original list price of $499.95.
Opens in a new window Credit: Harman Kardon Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 $129.99 at WootI’ve been side-eyeing high-end Bluetooth speakers for a while now, waiting for one to dip low enough that I could justify it without guilt. This? This is that moment. Harman Kardon’s Onyx Studio 8 is $129.99 at Woot right now, down from a wild $499.95. That’s a 74% discount, which feels like a typo they forgot to fix.
In my opinion, Onyx Studio 8 is what you get when audio engineers and interior designers actually talk to each other. The thing looks good enough to live on a bookshelf without screaming “tech bro” and sounds like you accidentally bought something for professionals. It’s got that warm, punchy low-end Harman Kardon is famous for, and the kind of clarity that makes even your sad playlist sound cinematic.
SEE ALSO: Live your Kawaii gamer dreams with this discounted Logitech POP ICON keyboard and mouse comboIt also has self-tuning, which I did not realize was a feature I needed until now. Power it on in a new room and it recalibrates to its surroundings automatically. No fiddling, no settings, no pretending you understand what “acoustic phase optimization” means. Just turn it on, and it sounds great.
Battery life clocks in at eight hours, and it can pair with two Bluetooth devices at once. If your partner insists on hijacking the playlist mid-dinner party, now they can. You’ll regret it, but they can. The anodized aluminum handle doubles as a base, which makes it genuinely portable and not just “portable” in the sense that you could move it but probably won’t.
Price: $129.99 $499.95
Retailer: Woot
Condition: New
Color: Black
Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Special Features: Self-tuning, dual-device pairing
Design: Anodized aluminum handle/base, premium materials
Eco-Friendly: Recycled plastic, FSC-certified packaging
Warranty: 1-year Harman Kardon manufacturer limited warranty
Shipping: Free for Prime members (excludes Alaska, Hawaii, and PO Boxes)
It even earns a few eco points thanks to recycled materials and soy ink packaging. Not saying this will singlehandedly save the planet, but it’s nice to know your speaker has a smaller footprint than your streaming habits.
For $129.99, this is one of those “add to cart before someone notices the mistake” kind of deals. I want it, and I don’t even need another speaker. That’s how good it is.
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