Researchers working on the Nasa mission say the extraordinary longevity of the gamma-ray burst may force them to change their theories about how these colossal blasts work.

BBC: Telescope spies cataclysmic blast

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin took the extraordinary step Thursday of sending a message through the media -- which he termed a "desperate SOS" -- advising the crowd at the convention center to march over the Crescent City Connection bridge to the west bank of the Mississippi River to find relief in neighboring Jefferson Parish.

CNN: vert.sandbag.drop.pool.jpg

"The X-ray spectrum of the loop is extraordinary, " said Dr Masaaki Sakano of the University of Leicester.

BBC: Arches Cluster, Leicester

So, Ray, thank you for your extraordinary service. (Applause.) Thank you.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama and Vice President Biden Address National Governors Association | The White House

It may not be all darkness for Abercrombie, however, as some analysts are still seeing a ray of light in the company, which was once lauded for an extraordinary brand and product mix.

FORBES: Analyst To Abercrombie: Show Us What You've Got