Richard Branson heading for space this weekend
Branson and five crewmates plan to launch Sunday on the first fully commercial passenger flight to space.
Richard Branson
Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos race to space
Virgin Galactic's Richard Branson, and the world's richest man, Blue Origin's Jeff Bezos, are both riding their own rockets into space this month on separate missions, nine days apart.It will be Virgin Galactic's fourth flight to space, but the first carrying its founder. Mark Strassmann has the story.
Space tourism era ready for liftoff
Richard Branson is slated to be on his Virgin Galactic's maiden manned flight and the same goes for Jeff Bezos and his Blue Origin's first manned flight a few days later.
Billionaires' race to space heats up
This month, a pair of billionaires plan to begin a new era in civilian space travel. Virgin Group founder Richard Branson is set to fly to space on July 11 while Amazon's Jeff Bezos has his own flight planned for 11 days later. CBS News space analyst Bill Harwood joins CBSN's Lana Zak to explain more.
Station astronauts welcome civilian space travel
As billionaires Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson prepare for space flights, professional astronauts say bring it on.
Shooting billionaires into space
Two of the richest men in the world are now officially in a space race to make history. But for Sir Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos, there's a lot more at stake than just bragging rights. Tony Dokoupil has the details.
Jeff Bezos is heading to space in own rocket
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos announced Monday that he'll fly to space on his own rocket. The New Shepard, built by Bezos' space company Blue Origin, is set to blast off from West Texas on July 20. Christian Davenport, who covers NASA and the space industry for The Washington Post (owned by Bezos), joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss the significance of the upcoming flight.
Virgin Galactic completes third successful spaceflight
Saturday's spaceflight made New Mexico the third U.S. state to launch humans into space.
Sir Richard Branson
Sir Richard Branson's trans-Atlantic hot air balloon crossing in 1987 was just one of his death-defying adventures. The British businessman's record-breaking journey and his trans-Pacific adventure four years later are the subject of a new documentary, "Don't Look Down." First on "CBS This Morning," Branson discusses what his family thinks about his excursions and his concerns about President-elect Donald Trump.
Richard Branson joins "CBS This Morning" from Necker Island to discuss the crash
It is day three into the investigation of what caused a space plane to crash in California. Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson joins "CBS This Morning" from Necker Island to discuss the crash.
Virgin's Branson on future of travel industry
Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, discusses how the pandemic has impacted the travel industry and what the future of travel might look like. The Virgin Group consists of dozens of companies including airlines, hotels, a cruise line, a hyperloop and space travel.
Richard Branson company launches rocket from under plane's wing
Virgin Orbit asserts its method offers maximum flexibility since the launching Boeing 747s could take off from airports anywhere.
Virgin's Hyperloop carries first passengers in test run
Company claims test, in Nevada desert, was major advance for technology that could transport people at 620 miles an hour.
Virgin Atlantic files for bankruptcy as airline woes mount
Carrier is the second linked to Richard Branson to seek a court's relief from its debts because of the coronavirus.
Richard Branson pleads for U.K. rescue of Virgin Atlantic
Branson, seeking to save airline empire, said he'd offer as collateral the private islands he owns in the Caribbean.
Blue Origin launches New Shepard on successful test flight
The test flight is the latest in preparation for launching commercial passengers into space.
"Corporate astronaut": How billionaires are joining the space race
Six hundred people have already paid Virgin Galactic $250,000 for a ticket to space
Virgin Galactic announces new steps toward offering thrill rides to space
New Mexico officials have eagerly anticipated the arrival of space tourism by Virgin Galactic for more than a decade
Virgin Galactic moving operations to New Mexico
CBSN spoke to Sir Richard Branson, founder and CEO of Virgin Galactic, and New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham about space tourism and the state's new spaceport.
JFK's space legacy & Trump's new moonshot
In the new book "American Moonshot: John F. Kennedy and the Great Space Race," historian Douglas Brinkley takes a closer look at America's first space missions and how the Kennedy administration changed space exploration. Brinkley joins CBSN to discuss JFK's legacy and why the Trump administration is now pushing for a new moonshot.
Virgin Galactic reaches edge of space again in push to launch paying passengers
The SpaceShipTwo rocketplane was carried aloft from the Mojave Air & Space Port north of Los Angeles
Virgin founder Richard Branson says the rich may need "heavy taxes"
If wealthy can't make capitalism work for more people, "we deserve to have very heavy taxes," philanthropist says
Under Armour is developing spacesuits for Virgin Galactic
This comes as the race to make commercial space travel a reality is intensifying
12/13: CBS Evening News
Suspect in French terror attack killed by police; Richard Branson prepares for private space tours after Virgin Galactic flight.
Virgin Galactic clears major milestone
Virgin Galactic cleared a major milestone on Thursday by sending a spaceship from the Mojave desert to beyond Earth's atmosphere. The company is now on track to send private tourists into space. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans spoke with Richard Branson.
Live
Tehran threatens to retaliate after U.S. attacks vital Iranian oil hub
President Trump said that other countries would join the U.S. in sending warships to the Strait of Hormuz, but did not share more specifics.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
U.S. offers $10 million, chance to relocate for info on Iran's leaders
The State Department is seeking information on Iran's new supreme leader and nine other "key leaders" in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
Trump thanks TSA agents working with no pay amid government shutdown
TSA officers faced their first full missed paycheck Friday.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills 4 people and wounds at least 15
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
U.S.
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Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
2 former federal workers turned their firings into a movement to help others
Within days of their firings, two former federal workers launched a support group for fellow colleagues in the same situation. What started out as 20 people has grown to almost 5,000 members nationwide.
U.S. identifies 6 service members killed in refueling aircraft crash in Iraq
Six U.S. service members who were killed in a military refueling aircraft crash over Iraq last week have been identified as members of the Ohio Air National Guard and Florida-based crew members.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
MoneyWatch
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How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Politics
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2 former federal workers turned their firings into a movement to help others
Within days of their firings, two former federal workers launched a support group for fellow colleagues in the same situation. What started out as 20 people has grown to almost 5,000 members nationwide.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
White House proposes new underground visitor screening facility
The Trump administration has proposed the construction of an underground facility to screen visitors to the White House.
FCC chair threatens broadcast licenses as Trump criticizes Iran war coverage
Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr did not name specific networks, but his post included a reference to a Saturday morning Truth Social post from the president.
HealthWatch
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A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
World
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U.S. identifies 6 service members killed in refueling aircraft crash in Iraq
Six U.S. service members who were killed in a military refueling aircraft crash over Iraq last week have been identified as members of the Ohio Air National Guard and Florida-based crew members.
3 more members of Iran women's soccer team decline to accept asylum in Australia
Another three members of the Iran women's soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to their homeland, an Australian government minister said.
Pope Leo moves into papal residence eschewed by Pope Francis
His predecessor, Pope Francis, lived in a simple apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse in the Vatican.
What to know about Kharg Island, the Iranian oil site struck by U.S.
Kharg Island is a small, heavily fortified, and strategically valuable island off Iran's northern coast.
Russian strike on Kyiv region kills at least 6 people and wounds dozens
The attack hit four districts, damaging residential buildings, educational institutions and critical infrastructure, officials said.
Entertainment
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The 2026 Oscars are tonight. Here's how to watch live and what to know.
Hollywood's biggest stars are gearing up for the 98th annual Academy Awards. Here is what to know and how to watch the 2026 Oscars.
Oscars 2026: Behind the scenes with the best picture nominees
Watch scenes from the films nominated for best picture at the 98th annual Academy Awards, as well as interviews with the filmmakers.
Why the paparazzi aren't what they once were
The Academy Awards are on Sunday night and Hollywood's biggest stars will be under the watchful eye of the paparazzi. Barry Petersen reports that those who once made a lot of money for their shots are no longer.
Meet one of the last true paparazzi
Pascal Rostain, one of the last-standing "traditional" paparazzi photographers, talks to "CBS Saturday Morning" about how the industry has changed in a world of smartphones and social media.
Oscars 2026 predictions
Kat Rosenfield, a culture writer for the Free Press, joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to preview the 98th Academy Awards and discuss her new novel, "How to Survive in Woods." The Free Press is a Paramount publication.
Technology
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Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
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Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Judge in Charlie Kirk murder case makes ruling on media access
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk.
FBI: Synagogue attacker died by suicide
The suspect in the Michigan synagogue attack died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the FBI said at a news conference on Friday. CBS News correspondent Ash-har Quraishi has the latest.
Officials give update on synagogue attack
Officials in Michigan gave an update about Thursday's synagogue car ramming attack that the FBI is investigating as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community." CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more.
Space
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Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Jocelyn Peters and the Notebook
Why did a man eat pages from a notebook when facing questions about the murder of a third grade teacher? "48 Hours" correspondent Anne-Marie Green reports.
Watch: TSA lines amid DHS shutdown
Since the Department of Homeland Security shut down last month, Transportation Security Administration employees have been working without pay. Travelers around the U.S. saw long lines and delays as the agency grappled with staffing shortages and resignations.
Choke Point | Sunday on 60 Minutes
Iranian attacks on tankers and cargo ships have choked the flow of oil and goods through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting Persian Gulf oil producers to global markets. The disruption threatens to drive U.S. gas prices to record highs.
Two fired federal workers helping others like them
Two former federal workers are turning their firings into a movement to help others. Nikole Killion has their story.
Fliers facing long lines in U.S. amid DHS shutdown
Fliers in the U.S. experienced long lines at security as TSA agents worked without pay. Tim McNicholas has more on the major problems looming this spring break.