Mental Floss

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Marsaili McGrath, Getty Images for KC Events

On January 14, 2016, the world lost one of its most enigmatic actors when Alan Rickman passed away following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. We’re looking back at 10 surprising facts about the beloved actor.

Jennifer M Wood








J. Malcolm Greany, Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

The celebrated photographer—who was born on this day in 1902—once mutilated his own negatives. On purpose.

Jake Rossen






Warner Bros.

Still waiting for your Hogwarts acceptance letter? Still dreaming of the day you can walk through the Great Hall doors for the first time? Well now you can, because there are newly-constructed luxury apartments right next to the real Great Hall from Harry

Hannah Wigandt






Matt Cardy/Stringer, Getty Images

It's our closest neighbor in the solar system, but we still have a lot to learn about the Moon—from how it formed to what's on its dark side.

Michele Debczak




iStock.com/traumschoen

Architectural innovation has been a defining feature of societies since then our ancient relatives began construction shelters 400,000 years ago. From energy-efficient designs to community-based spaces, these seven designs could help shape the future.

Kristance Harlow