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How did life start on Earth? The answer is a big scientific mystery scientists are actively investigating. After talking with many scientists, host Regina G. Barber found that an abundance of water on Earth is most likely key, in some way, to the origin of life — specifically, in either deep sea hydrothermal vents or in tide pools. It's for this reason some scientists are also exploring the potential for life in so-called "water worlds" elsewhere in the solar system, like some of the moons of Jupiter and Saturn. This episode, Regina digs into two water-related hypotheses for the origin on life on Earth — and what that might mean for possible alien life.

Have another scientific mystery you want us to cover on a future episode? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.

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Most of those detained were arrested for carrying signs supporting a pro-Palestinian group recently banned as a terrorist organization in the UK.

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The decision comes as France, Canada and the UK have signaled similar steps in recent weeks.

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President Trump promised a weekend crackdown of Washington, D.C.'s homeless population and criminals. Trump activated federal agents to also be a show of force across the district.

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In western Colorado, firefighters are up against windy, hot weather as they try to protect homes and infrastructure from a pair of lightning-caused wildfires.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doubled down on his plan for Israel to seize control of Gaza City and the remaining sliver of Gaza not already under Israeli control.

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Some European leaders say that Ukraine must be included in any talks with Russia over ending the war.

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As the postwar international order continues to evolve, NPR explores its past and the present and asks what the future may look like.

Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said President Trump has the power to deploy the National Guard, but "none of the conditions exist" for the president to take over the city's police.

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In a new book, Mallary Tenore Tarpley says she's learned to reject perfectionism when it comes to recovery and accept her slip-ups as part of a messy "middle place" between sickness and health.