2026
Artemis II launches
NASA launched Artemis II, sending four astronauts around the Moon on the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972. The flight marked a major step in the United States' effort to resume deep-space missions and eventually return crews to the lunar surface.
India's population lead over China widens
By 2026, India was clearly ahead of China as the world's most populous country, extending a demographic shift that United Nations analysts had identified in 2023. The contrast between India's younger population and China's aging, shrinking society carried long-term consequences for labor markets, growth, and geopolitics.
Rubaya coltan mine collapse
Heavy rain triggered a landslide at the Rubaya coltan mines in eastern Congo, killing more than 200 artisanal miners and nearby residents. The collapse highlighted the dangerous conditions of a mineral trade that feeds global electronics supply chains.
Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics open
Italy opened the Winter Olympics with events spread across Milan, Cortina d'Ampezzo, and other Alpine venues, the first Games to use such a dispersed model. The format reflected both the geography of the host region and the growing logistical pressures of staging winter sport in a warming climate.