it s having across the globe. it all comes as the president lifts those tough travel restrictions on eight african nations put in place to help slow the pandemic s spread. plus, the holiday celebrations scaled way back parts of europe locked down another year without tourists in bethlehem. the queen even skipping her traditional christmas. also, deadly winter weather a massive and fiery pileup on an icy interstate 29 million in the path of torrential rain, flash floods and snow. but is it enough to make a dent in those areas devastated by drought? and weeks after historic tornadoes ripped through the midwest, how the love and kindness of neighbors means new hope in one hard-hit kentucky town. and reaching for the stars like never before the countdown to lift-off for a telescope set to travel a million miles. announcer: this is nbc nightly news with lester holt good evening
launch is happening any moment, a telescope set to launch a million miles into space to unveil the secrets of the universe. we ll take you there live. here . ever notice how stiff clothes can feel rough on your skin? it s because they rub against you creating friction. and your clothes rub against you all day. for softer clothes that are gentle on your skin, try downy free & gentle. just pour into the rinse dispenser and downy will soften your clothes without dyes or perfumes. the towel washed with downy is softer, fluffier, and gentler on your skin. try downy free & gentle. recognized by the national psoriasis foundation and national eczema association. hey businesses! you all deserve something epic! so we re giving every business, our best deals on every iphone - including the iphone 13 pro with 5g. that s the one with the amazing camera? yep! every business deserves it. like ones that re-opened! hi, we have an appointment. and every new business that just opened! like aromatherapy r
three bedrooms. reporter: the kindness continues. ta m s nephew will pay for the utility bills. what will you say to people that want to help but don t know how? we didn t know how either. just get started. reporter: they have to commit to three months but the bonds forming now will last a lifetime. vicki nguyen, nbc news. coming up, a look at a new very extensive telescope set to launch later this week when the 11th hour continues. when the 11th hour continues