Photo Hebdo: takeoff of the Soyuz rocket, dead whales on a beach… The news of the week in pictures

Friday, September 23, takeoff was successful at Baikonur (Kazakhstan) for the rocket Soyuz who will join the international space station. A technical feat, but above all diplomatic because at edge found an American and two Russian cosmonauts. A very rare example of cooperation between the two powers. On land, in Tasmania in southern Australia, 200 whales have been found dead. Rescuers couldn’t do anything.

In Thailand, 1,500 caged birds come together for a singing competition under the encouragement of trainers. In India, a young woman smiles as the 9 Nights Festival approaches. This Hindu gathering promises a profusion of colors. On an orchid, some see a human form. Yet this is only the work of nature.