Thursday, December 19, 2024

This week’s Discovery newsletter examines new findings that change what we know about cannabis; investigates the central mystery of the Dead Sea Scrolls; tracks the U.S. rise of bird flu, dives into a forgotten Alaskan battlefield, finds that these foods (and this emotion) could extend your life ... and tests your knowledge of the stars of the sea.

PHOTOGRAPH BY REBECCA HALE, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC 

Cannabis now can be used recreationally in half of the United States. With rising use, new insights have emerged about weed’s physical and mental health effects. These studies change what we know about marijuana.

Related:
- This strange health disorder is on the rise among cannabis users 
- Do you smoke week recreationally? Here’s what experts want you to know.

PHOTOGRAPH BY PAOLO VERZONE/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC IMAGE COLLECTION 

Related: This rare disorder is a leading cause of blindness in young people

Also: Face blindness is more common than you think 

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEL SARTORE 

It’s the world’s biggest sea star. The roving, ravenous apex predator can span more than three feet across—and is able devour armored animals like urchins, snails, clams, and crabs. Scientists are trying to preserve the species, devastated by a mysterious wasting disease. What type of star is it? 

A. arm-wrestling bat star.
B. bloodless blood star
C. leather star
D. sunflower sea star 

Today’s Soundtrack: Slow Burn, Kacey Musgraves 

Bonus track: Burn One With John Prine, Kacey Musgraves (live, with John Prine) 

Today’s newsletter was edited and curated by David Beard and produced by  Amanda Williams-Bryant. Sign up here to get tomorrow’s Top Ten stories of the week or catch Sunday’s Photo of The Week.