How Trump’s Jesus-like image and feud with the Pope are sparking backlash
Trump’s Christ-like Portrayal and Clash with the Pope Ignite Controversy
President Donald Trump is facing mounting criticism following a post on Truth Social that depicted him as a Christ-like figure. The AI-generated image, which has since been removed, showed the leader appearing to heal a patient in a hospital bed. This visual came shortly after he delivered a detailed critique of Pope Leo XIV. Trump later clarified that he believed the image portrayed him as a physician. BBC journalist Sarah Smith delves into the tensions between the president and the pope, as well as the mixed reactions from his core supporters.
Feud with the Pope and Public Reaction
The president’s remarks targeting the pope have sparked debate, with some loyalists defending his stance while others question its theological implications. The image, though deleted, became a focal point for critics who argued it exaggerated his religious influence. Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign continues to rally backing from his most devoted followers, despite the controversy.
Apollo 13’s Record Broken by Artemis II Crew
During their 10-day lunar mission, the Artemis II crew surpassed the distance record previously held by the Apollo 13 astronauts in 1970. They reached 248,655 miles (400,171km) from Earth, with plans to venture even farther. Astronaut Christina Koch shared her emotions upon reestablishing contact with Earth, stating,
“It is so great to hear from Earth again.”
The team’s journey now includes navigating the Moon’s far side, a key milestone in their exploration.
Behind the Mission: Astronauts and Their Journeys
Astronaut Reid Wiseman’s wife passed away from cancer in 2020 at the age of 46, adding a personal dimension to the mission. The crew, including Jeremy Hansen—Canada’s first astronaut to travel beyond Earth’s orbit—conducted critical tasks aboard the Orion spacecraft, such as simulating maneuvers. Their mission, while not involving a lunar landing, marks a significant step toward NASA’s 2028 goal of returning humans to the Moon. The team also engaged with families via video links, reflecting on their experiences.
Launch and Public Spectacle
The launch of NASA’s first crewed Moon mission in five decades drew a crowd, with some passengers on a commercial flight witnessing the event from just three miles away. The BBC’s Science Editor Rebecca Morelle observed the spectacle as the most powerful rocket ever built ignited in Florida. Despite delays and technical hurdles, the mission successfully entered Earth’s orbit, setting the stage for its historic journey.
Legacy of the Mission
As the Artemis II crew continues their voyage, the mission underscores the US’s ambitions to lead lunar exploration. While the focus remains on future landing plans, the current flight highlights the challenges and triumphs of space travel. The team’s preparation, from suit fittings to final communications checks, reflects the meticulous efforts required to achieve such milestones.
