Solar Explosion Triggers Communication Disruptions on Earth
An explosion on the sun has caused a massive plume of energized particles to soar through space at a speed of 900,000mph, triggering blackouts in Australia and South Asia. Physicists have identified the explosion as an M-class flare, which can lead to small (R1) to moderate (R2) radio blackouts on the daylight side of the Earth. Strong M-class flares, such as the one observed on Monday, have the potential to launch a coronal mass ejection (CME), comprising large clouds of plasma and magnetic field that erupt from the sun.
Space Shuttle Challenger Embarks on STS-41B Mission
On Feb. 3, 1984, space shuttle Challenger embarked on its fourth flight, STS-41B, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. The mission included practicing tasks required for the upcoming Solar Maximum Mission satellite retrieval and repair mission, successful test flights of the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) astronaut propulsion device during two untethered spacewalks, and the successful deployment of two commercial communications satellites, Westar VI and Palapa-B2. The crew for STS-41B was announced on Feb. 4, 1983, and the mission’s objectives underwent changes, ultimately including the Shuttle Pallet Satellite-01A (SPAS-01A) and practicing rendezvous maneuvers with the Integrated Rendezvous Target (IRT), an inflatable 6-foot balloon deployed from the payload bay.
New Study Offers Fresh Perspective on Seattle Fault Zone
New study from Washington State Department of Natural Resources offers fresh perspective on Seattle fault zone, potentially aiding in more accurate predictions of future seismic events. Study reveals major ancient fault in current location of Seattle fault, with potential to trigger a 7.2 magnitude earthquake. Results could help prevent substantial loss of life and economic damage.
Fortnite’s Rocket Racing v28.20 Update: New Tracks, Quests, and Improvements
Get ready to rev up your engines and hit the tracks with the latest update in Fortnite’s Rocket Racing v28.20! The Fortnite Team has introduced two new Advanced tracks that will put your rocket racing skills to the test. Buckle up and get ready to drift through twists and turns while showcasing the new colors of the Drift Smoke Trail. But that’s not all – there are also new Quests to prove your prowess as a pro racer.
Harvard Professor Claims New Evidence of Alien Spacecraft
Harvard astronomy professor Avi Loeb claims to have found new evidence of alien spacecraft in small magnetic spherules recovered from the Pacific Ocean. Despite facing criticism, Loeb defends his work as evidence-based and not opinion-driven. This is not the first time Loeb has made controversial claims about extraterrestrial objects, and he has founded The Galileo Project at Harvard to search for extraterrestrial life using machine learning and observatories.
Fortnite Players Express Frustration Over Speed-Reducing Movement Issues
Fortnite players are debating whether movement speed issues are intentional features or unintended bugs, with some expressing frustration over the game’s tendency to forcibly slow down players. The community remains divided on the matter, with some offering potential solutions to mitigate the movement problems. The ongoing discourse underscores the significance of movement mechanics in shaping the overall gaming experience for Fortnite enthusiasts.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023): A Budget-Friendly and Family-Friendly Tablet
The Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) is an affordable and family-friendly tablet with a 10.1-inch Full HD display, lightweight build, and Alexa smart display capabilities. Despite lacking a fingerprint sensor and Google app support, it offers significant value at £149.99 in the UK and $139.99 in the US. With a 25% faster processor and improved front camera, it’s a compelling option for both current and new tablet users.
Rumored Nintendo Direct Broadcast Sparks Excitement and Speculation
Rumors of a new Nintendo Direct airing next week have sparked excitement among fans, with speculations about potential announcements including Switch ports for The Legend of Zelda and Metroid Prime 4. As the rumored date approaches, fans eagerly await official confirmation from Nintendo, reflecting the enthusiasm and curiosity within the gaming community for upcoming releases and announcements.
CD Projekt Red Announces Veteran Developers for Cyberpunk 2077 Sequel, Project Orion
CD Projekt Red has announced the appointment of veteran developers to work on its Cyberpunk 2077 sequel, codenamed Project Orion. The core team members behind Cyberpunk 2077 have moved to North America to lead the development of the sequel, with the company’s North American arm leading the development. The studio also revealed the addition of experienced developers from Amazon Games, Blizzard, Ubisoft, and more. CD Projekt stated that Project Orion is in the ‘conceptual design’ phase and is currently hiring for various positions at its North American studios.
Google Maps on Android Auto Now Displaying 3D Buildings More Widely
Google Maps on Android Auto now displays 3D buildings by default, enhancing the navigation experience. Users can turn off this feature in settings. The addition of 3D buildings provides a more visually engaging experience for drivers, part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve navigation services.