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The Trump administration has overhauled the $42 billion BEAD broadband program, prompting states to reduce fiber deployment and increase satellite use, notably Starlink. Louisiana and Vermont are preparing proposals that align with new priorities, raising questions about remaining funds and their future use amid political and industry disputes.
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Since September 6, 2025, multiple subsea fiber-optic cables in the Red Sea near Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have been cut, causing widespread internet slowdowns and increased latency across the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa. Key cables affected include SEA-ME-WE-4, IMEWE, and FALCON GCX. Microsoft and NetBlocks confirm traffic rerouting but warn of ongoing delays. The damage coincides with regional tensions involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
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Tesla shareholders voted over 75% in favor of Elon Musk's ambitious pay package, which could be worth up to $878 billion if all milestones are met. The plan ties Musk’s compensation to Tesla’s market growth and future AI ventures, amid ongoing debates over its size and Musk’s influence.
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Global markets gained as investors anticipate the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this month. Asian stocks hit new highs, while Wall Street remains near record levels amid signs of slowing inflation and expectations of monetary easing. Economic data continues to influence investor sentiment today, Thursday, 18 September 2025.
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NASA's latest Cygnus cargo spacecraft, launched by Northrop Grumman, experienced an early engine shutdown caused by conservative software settings. Despite the glitch, astronauts successfully captured the spacecraft with the station's robotic arm. The mission delivers vital supplies and research hardware to the ISS, with the spacecraft set for a planned reentry after six months.
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Recent articles highlight advances in personal tech, urban mobility, and autonomous vehicles. A budget-friendly smartphone, a robotic massage experience, a wireless car display, and Dubai's autonomous taxi showcase ongoing shifts toward smarter, more connected city living. These developments impact daily routines and transportation options.
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On October 13, 2025, SpaceX launched its 11th full-scale Starship test flight from Texas, marking the final flight of the second-generation rocket. The Super Heavy booster executed a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, while the Starship upper stage deployed eight mock Starlink satellites and splashed down in the Indian Ocean. This flight tested new heat shield configurations and dynamic maneuvers, advancing NASA’s Artemis lunar goals and SpaceX’s Mars ambitions.
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As of October 2025, OpenAI's valuation surged to $500 billion following a $6.6 billion secondary share sale by current and former employees to investors including SoftBank, Thrive Capital, and MGX. Despite not yet turning a profit, OpenAI has secured massive AI infrastructure deals with Oracle, Nvidia, and AMD, fueling rapid growth and complex partnerships across Silicon Valley's AI ecosystem.
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Recent studies reveal a rogue planet, Cha 1107-7626, accreting gas and dust at an unprecedented rate, blurring lines between stars and planets. Meanwhile, the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, larger than previously thought, passed near Mars and is being closely observed. Finnish scientists also captured the first image of two black holes orbiting each other, confirming their binary nature.
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In late October 2025, FBI Director Patel used a government jet to attend a performance by his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins, at Pennsylvania State University. The trip sparked media scrutiny and led to the ousting of a senior FBI aviation official. Patel defended his travel as compliant with rules, while criticism continues amid broader concerns about his personal use of government aircraft.
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Elon Musk publicly criticized US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, accusing him of trying to undermine NASA and questioning his intelligence. The feud centers on Duffy's proposal to reopen NASA contracts and potentially shift agency oversight to the Department of Transportation, amid ongoing debates over NASA's leadership and lunar program timelines.
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Vast's Haven Demo spacecraft launched into orbit from Cape Canaveral, aiming to establish a commercial outpost. Meanwhile, India launched its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, supporting military communications and lunar ambitions. The US and China progress with space-based interceptors and reusable rockets, signaling a new era in space activity.
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On November 14, 2025, Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie safely returned to Earth after a nine-day delay caused by space debris damage to their original Shenzhou-20 return capsule. They landed in the Gobi Desert aboard the newer Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. The incident highlights growing risks from orbital debris amid China's expanding space ambitions.
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President Trump has reversed his decision to withdraw Jared Isaacman's nomination as NASA administrator, citing new support and reassessment of his credentials. The move follows political debates over Isaacman's past donations and industry ties, with the Senate approval process still pending as of November 12, 2025.
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On November 7, 2025, Tesla shareholders approved a $1 trillion pay package for CEO Elon Musk, contingent on ambitious targets over the next decade, including boosting Tesla's market cap to $8.5 trillion, selling 12 million vehicles annually, and deploying one million robotaxis and humanoid robots. The package is the largest in corporate history but has drawn criticism over its size and Musk's political controversies.
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Elon Musk's AI startup, xAI, is reportedly valued at $230 billion following a new funding round, nearly doubling its previous valuation. The company is investing heavily in AI infrastructure, including supercomputers, amid ongoing debates over environmental impact, AI safety, and social influence. Musk's broader business ventures remain intertwined with xAI's growth.
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As of early December 2025, South Korea is progressing with plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines, backed by U.S. approval for fuel access. This move aims to counter North Korea's growing military threats, including drone and missile expansions. Meanwhile, South Korea's new president seeks dialogue with North Korea amid ongoing border tensions and military provocations.
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On November 14, 2025, Blue Origin successfully launched its New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral, carrying NASA's twin Escapade spacecraft bound for Mars. The mission aims to study Mars' upper atmosphere and magnetic fields, with arrival expected in 2027. The rocket's first-stage booster was recovered upright on an offshore barge, marking a key milestone in reusable rocket technology and intensifying competition with SpaceX.
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Ukraine is deploying advanced terrestrial and naval drones to counter Russian advances and improve battlefield resilience. Recent tests in Greece highlight NATO's push for indigenous drone technology amid ongoing conflict, while fog conditions in Ukraine challenge drone surveillance and Russian ground pushes in Pokrovsk intensify.
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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejects US military intervention amid reports of US contractors installing restricted land signs near the border. The incident, close to SpaceX facilities, has prompted diplomatic efforts and border boundary clarifications, highlighting ongoing US-Mexico tensions over sovereignty and security concerns.
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The world's top 100 arms manufacturers earned a record $679 billion in 2024, driven by increased military spending amid conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Revenues rose mainly in Europe and the US, with Asian companies facing declines due to Chinese procurement issues. Despite delays in US programs, demand remains high worldwide.
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U.S. lawmakers scrutinize NASA's lunar plans amid concerns over China’s space ambitions and internal program delays. Experts call for a restart of Artemis missions, citing budget issues and strategic competition. Nominee Jared Isaacman’s confirmation highlights urgency for leadership as NASA advances lunar and commercial space projects.