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This week’s new questions

Why do dogs generally follow instructions, whereas cats largely ignore them? Will we ever build a space telescope that can see as far as the big bang?
RA5YK0 Dog jumping through a hoop held by a boy, Germany
Siegfried Kuttig/imageBROKER.com/Alamy

Humans have domesticated both cats and dogs. Why do dogs generally follow instructions, whereas cats largely ignore them?
Robert Morley
London, UK

Sophisticated research satellite orbiting Earth. Features realistic textures, solar panels, and deep space background with the blue planet below. Telescope in orbit around planet Earth. ; Shutterstock ID 2764478507; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other:
Alones/Shutterstock

Will we ever build a space telescope that can see as far as the big bang?
Mark Smith
Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, UK

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