It says that if in this space any closed-curve object, such as a rubber band, can be shrunk to a point, then the space is topologically equivalent to a sphere.

FORBES: Plugging A Math Gap

"But our concerns with Iran's development of space launch vehicle technologies are obviously well-known: Any space launch vehicle capable of placing an object in orbit is directly relevant to the development of long-range ballistic missiles, " she told reporters.

CNN: Reports: Monkey soars from Iran into space -- and back

The preferred way to deal with rogue asteroids is still a Hollywood-style heroic space mission to knock the object off course, or possibly blow it up although almost surely as an unmanned effort.

ECONOMIST: The American Association for the Advancement of Science

The Lebanese authorities clearly object to Israel's almost routine infringement of their air-space but have very little ability to do much about it.

BBC: Analysis: Strike adds complexity to tense region

The report also examines the possibility that it could have been space junk burning up on re-entry -- citing the Satview website, which notes that an object from orbit was due to burn through Earth's atmosphere at around that time.

CNN: Fireball lights up sky over Bangkok