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Max Verstappen Reigns Supreme: Dominant Display in First Japanese Grand Prix Practice Session

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JAPAN: Max Verstappen showcased his prowess on the track during Friday’s opening practice for the Japanese Grand Prix. Following Red Bull’s recent setback in Singapore, the reigning world champion took control from the get-go, securing the top spot throughout the session.

Max Verstappen, at 25 years old, was on a mission to reclaim his top driver status. He clocked an impressive 1:31.647, outpacing Carlos Sainz by a notable 0.626 seconds. Lando Norris secured the third-fastest time of the session.

Undeterred by the weather conditions, with cloudy skies, sticky air, and a track temperature of 37°C coupled with 75% humidity, Verstappen’s determination was palpable. He even waited at the pit lane’s end for several minutes for FP1 to commence.

Setting the pace with his RB19 adorned with flo-viz paint, Max Verstappen’s opening gambit was a swift 1:33.7. Meanwhile, Sainz experienced an unexpected spray from Lando Norris’ McLaren, with both drivers donning the flo-viz effect.

With a mix of Pirelli’s hard, medium, and test tires in play, Verstappen continued to dominate, dropping his time to an impressive 1:33.3. As the session progressed, Verstappen transitioned to test rubber, further pushing the boundaries of his performance.

Despite Max Verstappen’s exceptional run, he expressed dissatisfaction with George Russell, feeling obstructed by the Mercedes driver. Verstappen’s sheer pace placed him 1.4 seconds ahead of teammate Sergio Perez, who was also driving on the same tires.

As the session concluded, Verstappen maintained his lead, followed by Sainz and Norris. Charles Leclerc made an impressive surge, securing fourth place, with local favourite Yuki Tsunoda earning a respectable sixth-place finish.

The session ultimately revealed Max Verstappen’s unyielding determination and ability to perform under pressure, setting the stage for an electrifying weekend at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Also Read: NASA’s Webb Telescope Discovers Carbon on Europa’s Surface, Boosting Potential for Life

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx to Cap Off Epic Mission with Daring Descent and Desert Touchdown

UNITED STATES: NASA’s OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission is poised for its most daring feat yet as it nears Earth for a high-stakes atmospheric reentry and recovery. On September 24, after a seven-year odyssey, the spacecraft will deliver a historic payload—a capsule bearing surface material from the asteroid Bennu, marking a groundbreaking achievement for NASA.

Launched on September 8, 2016, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Base, OSIRIS-REx embarked on a two-year journey to rendezvous with Bennu. After reaching orbit around the asteroid in August 2018, OSIRIS-REx meticulously scanned and mapped its rugged surface for two more years.

In a pivotal moment on October 20, 2020, OSIRIS-REx descended to Bennu’s surface, retrieving vital material that was safely stored in the sample return capsule. A May 2021 propulsion system burn set the probe on a 1.2-billion-mile rendezvous course back to Earth.

As OSIRIS-REx draws closer, the most challenging phase of the mission awaits—the capsule’s atmospheric re-entry and landing. Teams have rigorously rehearsed each step over the past six months, knowing that precision is paramount.

The critical separation of the sample capsule is slated for 6:42 a.m. EDT at an altitude of approximately 63,000 miles above Earth. Ensuring flawless alignment is imperative, as the slightest deviation could jeopardize the entire mission. Upon entering Earth’s upper atmosphere at 10:42 a.m. EDT, the return capsule will hurtle through a fiery descent, protected by a specially designed shell. 

This will enable it to withstand intense heat and forces up to 32 times Earth’s gravity, all while enveloped in a blazing inferno. At around 10:50 a.m. EDT, the main parachute will deploy, gently lowering the capsule for its anticipated landing in the Utah desert at 10:55 a.m. EDT.

The world will hold its breath as this remarkable journey culminates in a historic touchdown. Subsequently, meticulous procedures will follow, ensuring the integrity of both the capsule and the precious Bennu samples.

Once verified safe, the capsule will be transported to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, where scientists from around the globe will embark on a new era of asteroid research, unlocking the secrets of our cosmic past.

Also Read: Hackers Claim ‘Donald Trump is Dead’ on Son’s X Account

Revolutionizing Electric Mobility: Toyota Unveils Cutting-Edge Battery Technology Roadmap

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UNITED STATES: Toyota, a pioneer in automotive innovation, has charted an ambitious course towards the future with its groundbreaking battery technology roadmap. This visionary plan encompasses the development of four next-generation battery types, including three innovative liquid electrolyte battery technologies and one utilizing next-gen solid-state battery technology.

The first in line is the Performance battery type, set to debut in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) by 2026. Employing lithium-ion chemistry, these batteries promise an impressive driving range of nearly 800 kilometres. 

This advancement is bolstered by enhanced aerodynamics and reduced weight. Notably, it is expected to be 20 percent more cost-effective and boast superior charging capacity compared to current battery technology.

Following closely is the Popularisation battery, featuring lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and built with the pioneering bipolar technology that Toyota originally introduced with nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. 

Anticipated to hit the market between 2026 and 2027, this battery type marks a significant stride in battery evolution. Not to be outdone, the High-Performance battery pack combines lithium-ion chemistry with a high nickel cathode, enabling an extraordinary driving range exceeding 1000 kilometres. 

Slated for release in 2027-2028, this technology anticipates a remarkable 10 percent reduction in cost and a rapid DC fast charging time of under 20 minutes for a 10-80 percent charge.

Simultaneously, Toyota is pushing the boundaries with solid-state batteries, projected to achieve the same remarkable 1000 kilometres of driving range. These batteries promise enhanced durability, swifter charging, and reduced power depletion. However, they come with the trade-off of a comparatively shorter battery lifespan.

With a bold vision, Toyota envisions that 3.5 million BEVs will grace the roads by the close of this decade. These groundbreaking battery technologies are poised to revolutionize the next generation of electric vehicles, not only for Toyota but for the wider automotive industry. This monumental leap forward stands as a testament to Toyota’s unwavering commitment to a sustainable and electrified future.

Also Read: Mahindra Partners with Volkswagen for Cutting-Edge Electric Motors to Power Next-Gen EVs

Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G Series Revolutionizes Handheld Gaming with Next-Level Processing Power

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UNITED STATES: Chip manufacturer Qualcomm has introduced its cutting-edge Snapdragon G Series handheld gaming lineup, promising a new era of immersive gaming experiences. 

This innovative portfolio, spanning three tiers (G1, G2, and G3), introduces the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Platform as the latest powerhouse processor.

Mithun Chandrasekhar, Senior Director of Product Management at Qualcomm, expressed excitement about the potential of the new Snapdragon G Series. 

The Snapdragon G1 is tailored for fanless handheld gaming devices, prioritizing lag-free connectivity and extended battery life for seamless game streaming, whether from local sources or via the cloud. 

The Snapdragon G1 Gen 1 Platform, the inaugural member of the G1 family, boasts a Qualcomm Kryo CPU (8 Core) paired with the Adreno A11 GPU, ensuring high-quality handheld game-streaming experiences.

Moving up the tiers, the Snapdragon G2 introduces full-featured mobile and cloud gaming, enhanced by a highly optimized processor and cutting-edge 5G and Wi-Fi 6/6E capabilities provided by the Qualcomm FastConnect 6700 Mobile Connectivity System. 

The first product in this tier, the Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 Platform, encompasses the latest Kryo CPU (8 Core), a gaming-optimized Adreno A21 GPU, and the Snapdragon X62 5G Modem-RF System.

At the pinnacle of this lineup is the Snapdragon G3, powered by the formidable Snapdragon G3x Gen 1. Devices built on this platform promise best-in-class gaming experiences across a wide array of gaming ecosystems. 

The Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 Platform showcases a Kryo CPU (8 Core) and Adreno A32 GPU, offering over 30% faster CPU performance and 2 times faster GPU performance compared to its predecessor.

Collaborating with Qualcomm on handheld gaming devices powered by Snapdragon G Series platforms are industry leaders such as AyaNeo, Huaqin, Inventec, and Thundercomm. 

With these advancements, Qualcomm is set to redefine the handheld gaming landscape, providing gamers with unparalleled processing power and versatility.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: The Future of Smartphones with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

TikTok Slapped with Record $368 Million Fine for Children’s Privacy Breaches in Europe

IRELAND: European regulators have delivered a resounding message to social media giant TikTok, imposing a staggering $368 million fine for severe lapses in safeguarding children’s privacy. This landmark penalty marks the first time the immensely popular video-sharing platform has faced consequences for violating the European Union’s stringent data privacy regulations.

Ireland’s Data Protection Commission, the premier privacy regulator in charge of major tech companies with their headquarters in Dublin, imposed the fine. Their exhaustive investigation uncovered significant deficiencies in shielding the privacy of minors.

A critical revelation was that default settings for adolescent accounts left them accessible to the public, granting unrestricted entry for viewers and commentators alike.

Additionally, the “family pairing” feature, designed to empower parents to manage their children’s account settings, was found to be inadequately stringent. This loophole enabled adults to activate direct messaging for users aged 16 and 17 without their explicit consent, potentially compromising their privacy.

The platform was also found to subtly steer teenage users towards more “privacy intrusive” options during both the sign-up and video posting processes.

TikTok, however, contested the regulatory ruling. The company contended that many of the features and settings criticised by the regulator had already been rectified before the commencement of the investigation in 2021. They emphasized that accounts for users under 16 had been made private by default, and direct messaging for users aged 13–15 had been disabled.

Elaine Fox, TikTok’s head of privacy for Europe, asserted in a blog post that “most of the decision’s criticisms are no longer relevant as a result of measures we introduced at the start of 2021.”

This recent fine is not the first instance of TikTok facing financial penalties over data protection concerns. Earlier this year, UK data privacy regulators imposed a £12.7 million ($15.7 million) fine on TikTok for mishandling children’s data and breaching protections for young users’ personal information.

Also Read: TikTok Ban in State of Montana Prompts the App to File a Lawsuit

Microsoft Set to Unveil Redesigned Xbox Series X “Brooklin” with Enhanced Features

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UNITED STATES: Leaked documents from the Federal Trade Commission vs. Microsoft case have unveiled the tech giant’s plans for a revamped Xbox Series X, slated for release in October 2024. Codenamed ‘Brooklin’, this redesigned console is expected to bring a fresh wave of innovation to the gaming community.

Departing from the rectangular form of its predecessor, the new Xbox Series X will feature a distinctive cylinder-like design, ditching the physical disc drive for a streamlined digital experience.

What’s more, the internal storage is set to double, offering gamers a capacious 2TB of space, a significant upgrade from the current model.

The console’s power source will be an AMD APU using the cutting-edge Zen2/RDNA2 architecture on a 6nm process. An exciting addition is the inclusion of a front-facing USB Type-C port for swift power delivery, enhancing convenience for users.

With a starting price of $499 (approximately Rs 41,000), the Brooklin promises not only innovation but also affordability, aligning with the current model’s cost.

Beyond the console, Microsoft is poised to introduce a new controller, codenamed ‘Sebile’, later this year. Packed with features like accelerometer-enabled gyro support, a two-tone colour scheme, direct cloud connectivity, Bluetooth 5.2, and an upgraded Xbox Wireless 2 connection, it is set to elevate the gaming experience.

The document also teases intriguing features like ‘precision haptic feedback’ and ‘VCA haptics doubling as speakers’, leaving enthusiasts eager for more details. Moreover, the buttons and thumbsticks are promised to be quieter, and users may expect a user-replaceable battery, a modular thumbstick, and a lift-to-wake function.

Looking ahead, Microsoft is already laying the groundwork for the next-generation Xbox, slated for release in 2028. Rumours suggest a cloud hybrid console with a potential shift to ARM architecture, indicating a dynamic future for gaming enthusiasts worldwide.

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Max Verstappen Escapes Penalty in Impeding Incident, AlphaTauri’s Absence Deemed a ‘Sporting Disappointment’

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SINGAPORE: Formula 1 fans and pundits were left scratching their heads as AlphaTauri chose not to attend the hearing into Max Verstappen’s impeding of Yuki Tsunoda during qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix. The decision, described as a “sporting disappointment” by Martin Brundle, added intrigue to a weekend already marked by surprises.

Max Verstappen’s day took a turn for the worse during qualifying at the demanding street circuit when Liam Lawson bumped him down to 11th on the timesheet, preventing him from participating in the pole position shootout. 

Even more concerning were the three stewards’ investigations that loomed over Max Verstappen, one of which centered on his actions during the session.

Onboard footage showed Max Verstappen obstructing Tsunoda, forcing the AlphaTauri driver to abandon his lap. While stewards deemed it impeding, Verstappen received only a reprimand, leaving Brundle and many in the paddock astonished.

In his column, Brundle expressed his surprise, stating, Max Verstappen didn’t get a penalty for impeding Yuki Tsunoda in qualifying when considering other penalties applied to other drivers this season.

Adding to the intrigue, AlphaTauri opted not to attend the hearing, citing a lack of a formal summons and the absence of a complaint lodged with the FIA. The decision left Brundle disappointed, especially considering their status as the junior Red Bull team.

However, the weekend held more challenges for Red Bull than just the hearing. Carlos Sainz seized the opportunity, ending Red Bull’s 15-race winning streak and Verstappen’s 10-race run. A perplexing handling issue with the RB19 left Verstappen in fifth place, while Sergio Perez managed eighth.

Despite the setbacks, Red Bull remains in contention for the Constructors’ Championship, needing just a one-point advantage over Mercedes in the next race in Japan to clinch the title.

Also Read: Aston Martin Calls for Consistency in FIA Penalties Following Verstappen’s Light Sanction

Rocket Lab’s Streak of Success Shattered: Anomaly Ends Radar Satellite Mission

NEW ZEALAND: Rocket Lab faced a setback during the launch of a radar Earth-observation satellite early Tuesday morning (Sept. 19). The Electron rocket, tasked with carrying a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) spacecraft for California-based Capella Space, took off from Rocket Lab’s New Zealand site at 2:55 a.m. EDT (0655 GMT; 6:55 p.m. local New Zealand time).

While the initial stages of the launch proceeded as planned, a critical incident occurred shortly after the separation of the Electron’s two stages, resulting in the premature end of the flight.

Rocket Lab’s telemetry data, shared during the live broadcast of the launch, indicated a decline in the velocity of the rocket’s upper stage shortly after the activation of its single Rutherford engine.

The cause of this decline remains speculative, with possibilities including an ignition failure or a premature shutdown. Rocket Lab, however, refrained from identifying a specific proximate or ultimate cause, promising to release further information as it becomes available.

This mission, dubbed “We Will Never Desert You,” marked Rocket Lab’s ninth launch of the year and its 41st overall. The unfortunate anomaly put an end to an impressive streak of 19 consecutive successful launches, with the company’s last failure occurring in May 2021.

The primary objective of “We Will Never Desert You” was to place one of Capella Space’s advanced “Acadia” satellites into a circular orbit approximately 395 miles above Earth’s surface. This mission represented the second in a four-launch contract aimed at deploying these cutting-edge SAR satellites into the heavens.

The preceding mission under this contract, “We Love the Nightlife” on Aug. 23, saw an Electron employing a previously used first-stage engine—a significant milestone for Rocket Lab’s pursuit of booster reusability. Notably, the company also achieved the recovery of the Electron’s first stage in that mission, employing a parachute-aided ocean splashdown.

Contrarily, “We Will Never Desert You” did not incorporate a preflown engine, and no plans for rocket recovery were mentioned by Rocket Lab prior to or during the webcast. This unexpected turn of events serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of space exploration and the resilience required to forge ahead.

Also Read: NASA’s Lunar Cameras Uncover Hidden Secrets of the Moon’s South Pole

Tesla’s Cybertruck Secures a Staggering 2 Million Pre-Orders, Crowdsourced Tracker Reveals

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UNITED STATES: In a revelation that underscores the fervent anticipation surrounding Tesla’s highly anticipated electric pickup, a crowdsourced reservation tracker independent of the automaker has employed ingenious calculations to estimate an astounding 2 million pre-orders for the Cybertruck.

The angular design, a point of contention among critics and enthusiasts, seems to have spurred a wave of reservations, propelling Tesla into uncharted territory.

The tracker, which publicly discloses over 47,000 self-reported reservations, offers a unique insight into the Cybertruck’s popularity. Notably, the majority of prospective buyers are gravitating towards the dual-motor and tri-motor variants, while the single-motor and quad-motor versions constitute a smaller share. Additionally, a staggering 70 percent of future Cybertruck owners are considering the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, according to the document.

While the figures presented are not precise, the creators of the spreadsheet acknowledge the intricate calculations and numerous adjustments made over time.

Remarkably, with a nominal $100 refundable deposit, Tesla has amassed a monumental $200 million solely from Cybertruck pre-orders. This financial windfall is expected to be channelled into furthering the pickup’s development, contingent on the accuracy of the estimates.

Although it is anticipated that a portion of reservation holders may opt out once the initial Cybertrucks are delivered, even if 80 percent of pre-orders were cancelled, Tesla would still boast an impressive customer base of 400,000.

Previously, the same crowdsourced tracker estimated that the all-electric pickup had garnered 1 million pre-orders in May 2021, with figures climbing to 1.25 million in August 2021 and 1.3 million in November 2021, marking a two-year milestone since its unveiling.

Elon Musk has hinted at a special handover event slated for later this month, signalling the imminent entry of the Tesla Cybertruck into the market. The vehicle’s unprecedented popularity heralds a new era in electric vehicle innovation and consumer enthusiasm.

Also Read: Erdogan Asks Elon Musk to Consider Tesla Factory in Turkey

Riders Unite for Safety: Historic MotoGP Debut in India Raises Concerns

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INDIA: Excitement and anticipation are mounting as India prepares to host its first-ever MotoGP round at the iconic Buddh International Circuit this weekend. However, concerns over track safety have cast a shadow over the event, making safety the focal point of discussions among riders.

The Buddh International Circuit, originally designed for Formula 1 races from 2011 to 2013, faced criticism due to its outdated safety features. The most significant concerns revolve around the placement of walls a mere three meters from the asphalt, with particular attention drawn to the safety at Turn 3, one of the slower corners of the track.

In response to these concerns, the venue underwent substantial upgrades, including an extension of run-off areas and partial resurfacing. Yet, as of last week, it had not received homologation by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM).

Aprilia rider Aleix Espargaro, a vocal advocate for rider safety, spearheaded discussions among riders, culminating in a united front regarding safety issues. “In India, all the riders together are going to walk the track before we get on the bike to understand the situation,” Espargaro emphasized.

Riders are determined to ensure their voices are heard. They plan to hold a vote among themselves on any matters concerning their safety.

As the inaugural Indian Grand Prix looms, riders and organizers alike are committed to addressing safety concerns head-on. With discussions and safety measures in place, fans can expect an action-packed race weekend that not only showcases the thrill of MotoGP but also prioritizes the well-being of the riders.

This unity among riders signifies a positive step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of MotoGP participants. As India gears up for this momentous event, the collective resolve of the riders promises to create a safer and more secure racing environment.

Also Read: India Revs Up for MotoGP Bharat: A High-Speed Showdown at Buddh International Circuit