SpaceX launch: Four astronauts, including one German, head to ISS

The Sea-Eye 4 rescued more than 800 people from the central Mediterranean this week — including 200 minors and five pregnant women. The overcrowded ship was stuck at sea for days before getting permission to dock.

A crew of four astronauts finally launched from Cape Canaveral and are set to dock at the International Space Station after a delay of nearly two weeks. The crew includes German astronaut Mathias Maurer.

The four SpaceX crew members arrived at the International Space Station after a journey of about 21 hours, to begin a six-month research trip. Flight commander Raja Chari said the ISS was "a pretty glorious sight."

German doctors and their staff have been facing aggression and threats from vaccine opponents. They have described having frayed nerves as pandemic fatigue sets in among patients and medical staff.

In response to a surge in infections, the Bundestag has approved new legislation. Acting Chancellor Angela Merkel is set to meet state leaders to debate further action as the pandemic threatens to spiral out of control.

As Germany reports another dismaying record in COVID statistics, its hardest-hit states are planning stricter curbs. Among other things, the country's beloved Christmas markets are being canceled one by one.

Despite being the first genocide of the 20th century, the 1904-1908 massacre of the indigenous Herero and Nama peoples by German colonial troops in Namibia remains a little-known chapter of history. It was not until May of this year that Berlin officially recognised its responsibility for the atrocities. Our regional correspondents report.

German jihadist Nils D. has been found guilty of torturing a man to death while serving as guard at an "Islamic State" prison.

The general global trend towards protectionism has been boosted by the pandemic, as countries try to buy more locally. That's a serious threat to jobs in Germany.

German judoka Marie Dinkel was sexually abused by her coach when she was 13. Now 25, she speaks to DW about her experience, lack of trust and how she hopes to help others.

Germany is to shut down its last nuclear reactors next year. However, the country still has no place to store the 27,000 cubic metres of highly radioactive material it has already produced, with the amount set to grow as power stations are decommissioned and dismantled. German authorities have set a deadline of 2031 to find a permanent storage location – but for now, the waste is being stored in temporary locations, much to the anger of local residents. Our correspondents report.

Germany’s short-time work model prevents mass layoffs during an economic downturn when workers have less to do. When they do work, they get paid as usual. When they don't work, they get an allowance from the state. This helps keep the economy stable.