The astrolabe, used for centuries across European and Islamic cultures, was the “smartphone” of its time. It could tell the time, track stars, calculate your location, and even help make decisions—much like today’s high-tech gadgets, but from an earlier era.

Val Kilmer, the actor known for his legendary roles in Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors, has passed away at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed the tragic news on Wednesday. Fans and celebrities worldwide have taken to social media to honor his memory, reflecting on the incredible legacy Kilmer leaves behind in Hollywood.

The “Rat King” is a rare and unsettling phenomenon where several rats become physically entangled by their tails, sometimes due to injury or other factors. Often found in tight spaces, these rats appear to be “joined” but are actually trapped together. Most findings are of dead rats, but some live specimens have been reported.

The Great Wall of China, one of the world’s most famous structures, has captivated imaginations for centuries. Built to defend against invaders, it spans thousands of miles, but its true history involves far more than just protecting against external threats.

Windsor’s Market Cross House, famously known as “The Crooked House,” stands next to the Guildhall on Windsor High Street. Built in 1592, it originally served as a market structure. After being demolished in 1687, it was hastily rebuilt using unseasoned oak, leading to its wonky appearance.

In the late 18th century, Giovanni Battista Bugatti, better known as Mastro Titta, became Rome’s official executioner. His career spanned from 1796 to 1864, during which he conducted over 500 executions, making him one of the longest-serving executioners in history.

In 1939, on the eve of World War II, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill wrote a lengthy, unpublished essay pondering the existence of alien life. Despite his focus on global conflict, Churchill’s fascination with science led him to explore the possibility that we are not alone in the universe.

From 1985 to 1995, Emilio Scotto embarked on the longest motorcycle adventure ever, riding 456,729 miles across 279 countries. What began as a dream became a 10-year odyssey where he circumnavigated the globe twice, encountering both extreme challenges and unforgettable moments.

In 1996, Turkish Airlines introduced an Airbus A340-300 named TC-JDM, which would go on to earn the infamous nickname “Deli Mike.” The aircraft, originally designed for long-haul flights, quickly became known for its bizarre technical failures and odd behavior, leading to its nickname, which plays on the ICAO spelling alphabet—D for “Delta” and M for “Mike,” transforming into “Deli” (meaning “crazy” in Turkish).

For years, a photo circulated online of a soldier allegedly carrying a donkey through a minefield, said to prevent the donkey from setting off landmines. The true story, however, is far more touching. The donkey was carried out of pure compassion.