Technology | 25HourNews

An Examination of How Ground Based Observations Complement Data from Spacecraft Missions In a groundbreaking collaboration, scientists from the University of Reading in the UK have been remotely photographing Jupiter for a vital NASA mission. The researchers, led by Dr. James O’Donoghue, have been using the Keck telescope in Hawaii to capture images of the gas giant without ever leaving their lab. This innovative approach to space research marks a new era of access to powerful telescopes, as scientists no longer need to travel to remote observatories to conduct their work. The images, which are downloaded within seconds of being taken, are being used in support of the ongoing NASA Juno spacecraft mission, providing valuable real time data to complement the spacecraft’s close up observations.The primary purpose of this remote photography is to study Jupiter's atmosphere, with a particular focus on the spectacular auroras that occur at its poles. By taking images of the planet in infrared, the scientists are able to measure Jupiter's temperature and observe how its brightness changes. These powerful light shows are driven by hundreds of trillions of watts of energy, and monitoring them helps researchers understand how energy flows through Jupiter's atmosphere and how the planet interacts with its surrounding space environment. The observations provide a crucial ground based perspective that complements the data gathered by the Juno spacecraft, which has been orbiting Jupiter since 2016.The use of remote technology is a significant step forward for planetary astronomy. In the past, scientists had to travel to special facilities or even to Hawaii to make these kinds of observations, a process that was both costly and time consuming. The ability to control a massive telescope from a research lab in Reading, UK, streamlines the research process and makes it more accessible. This technological advancement allows for more frequent and timely observations, enabling scientists to respond quickly to new developments in their research and to capture transient events in the planet's dynamic atmosphere. The photographs recovered from the observations not only show bright auroras but also reveal a unique detail: a black circle in front of Jupiter, which is actually the moon Callisto, appearing black because it is so bright it saturates the pixels of the infrared camera.The collaboration between the University of Reading and NASA highlights a new model for international space research. By combining the data from the Juno spacecraft, which provides close u
A New Era for British Tech: Government Policy and Private Investment Jensen Huang, the co founder and chief executive of US based chipmaker Nvidia, has declared that the United Kingdom is on track to become an "AI superpower." The statement comes amidst a wave of significant investments from global tech giants into the UK's burgeoning artificial intelligence sector, with companies committing billions of pounds to build new data centers and research facilities. This influx of capital signals a strong vote of confidence in the UK's potential to lead the next generation of technological innovation.The new investments are led by Nvidia's own commitment, which includes a new £500 million stake in the UK cloud computing company Nscale. This is part of a larger plan to build AI "factories" across the country, which will include as many as 120,000 of Nvidia's most advanced GPUs. These new data centers are set to be approximately 100 times more powerful than the fastest supercomputer currently in the UK. Nvidia is not alone in this push. Other major players, including Microsoft, Google, and OpenAI, have also announced billions in new funding for AI infrastructure and research, underscoring a collective belief in the UK’s strategic importance in the global AI race.The UK's strength in AI is rooted in a robust academic and research ecosystem. Huang praised the country's universities, which have produced leading AI companies like DeepMind, as well as innovative startups in fields such as autonomous vehicles. The concentration of top tier talent and world class research institutions has made the UK a prime location for venture capital, attracting the third largest amount of AI investment globally, behind only the US and China. Government initiatives have also played a crucial role. Recent policies, including the AI Opportunities Action Plan, have outlined a clear strategy to expand sovereign compute capacity and facilitate partnerships between the public and private sectors.However, challenges remain. Huang noted that securing enough electricity to power these massive, energy hungry data centers is a critical hurdle that will require significant investment in nuclear power and other energy sources. The UK government is also focused on developing a strong domestic AI industry to complement foreign investment and ensure that the nation's data is transformed into its own national interest. This two pronged approach of attracting foreign capital while fostering local innovation is key to realizing the full potential of the AI revolution
Why High End Brands are Becoming Prime Targets for Cybercriminals In a significant cyberattack on the luxury fashion industry, the parent company of Gucci, Balenciaga, and Alexander McQueen, Kering, has confirmed that private customer data was stolen by hackers. The breach has exposed personal details of millions of customers, including names, email addresses, phone numbers, and addresses. The attack, which was attributed to the group Shiny Hunters, highlights the growing vulnerability of high end brands to cyber threats. The company has stated that the hackers also accessed information about the total amount customers have spent at these stores, a detail that could be used for sophisticated future attacks.The breach was first identified by Kering in June, with the hackers claiming to have accessed the data as far back as April. According to the company, no sensitive financial information, such as credit card numbers, was compromised. However, cybersecurity experts have warned that the stolen data, particularly the spending information, could be a gold mine for cybercriminals looking to target high net worth individuals with phishing scams or other forms of social engineering fraud. The hackers reportedly attempted to ransom the stolen data from Kering, demanding a payment in Bitcoin. Kering, in line with advice from law enforcement agencies, refused to pay the ransom, which led the hackers to leak a small sample of the data online as proof.This incident is not an isolated event but rather part of a growing trend of cyberattacks targeting the luxury sector. Other major fashion houses and high end retailers have also reported data breaches in recent months. Analysts suggest that luxury brands are particularly attractive targets for cybercriminals for several reasons, including their clientele, which is often comprised of high net worth individuals, their complex global IT systems, and the potential for a large ransom due to the brand value they need to protect. The methods used in these attacks often involve social engineering, where hackers trick employees into giving up their login credentials.In response to the breach, Kering has begun notifying affected customers via email and is advising them to be vigilant. Cybersecurity experts recommend that customers who have shopped at any Kering brand take immediate precautions. This includes changing passwords for all online accounts, enabling two factor authentication wherever possible, and being extremely cautious of any suspicious emails, texts, or phone calls that ask for
How Google's New Data Center will Impact the UK's AI Sector Google's parent company, Alphabet, has announced a significant £5 billion investment in the UK, with the primary goal of bolstering the country's AI and cloud infrastructure. The announcement coincides with the official opening of a new Google data center in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, which is part of this larger financial commitment. This investment is set to power Google's AI-driven services such as Google Cloud, Workspace, and Maps, and is expected to create thousands of jobs across the country. The timing of this major pledge has drawn attention, as it comes just before a scheduled visit from President Trump.The investment is being positioned as a powerful vote of confidence in the UK economy and its strategic partnership with the US. According to a statement from UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the funds will be directed toward capital expenditure, research and development, and related engineering over the next two years. This includes significant work by Google DeepMind, the pioneering AI research arm of the company, which is based in London. The UK government has hailed the investment as a boost for its efforts to attract private capital and stimulate economic growth, particularly in the tech sector.Politically, the announcement is seen as a strategic move ahead of President Trump's state visit. Senior US officials have indicated that the visit will highlight a new science and technology partnership between the two nations, with billions of dollars in new investment expected to be announced. The delegation accompanying President Trump is reported to include several key US tech CEOs, which further underscores the focus on strengthening economic ties. Google's announcement serves as a major centerpiece of these broader economic discussions, signaling a commitment from a major US tech firm to the UK's future.The new Waltham Cross data center, which will be the first Google-owned facility in the UK, is also a key component of this investment. The state-of-the-art center is designed with advanced cooling technology to minimize water usage and is also equipped to provide heat recovery to local homes and businesses. This dual focus on technology and sustainability reflects a key part of Google's strategy. The investment is projected to support 8,250 jobs annually at UK businesses, reinforcing the positive economic impact of the move.
China Launches Anti Monopoly Probe into Nvidia Accusing the Tech Giant of Abusing Dominance China’s top market regulator has formally launched an anti-monopoly investigation into Nvidia, accusing the U.S. chip giant of abusing its dominant position in the Chinese market. The move comes as a major escalation in the global tech war, putting one of the world's most valuable companies directly in the crosshairs of Beijing. The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) is reportedly examining whether Nvidia's practices have stifled competition and innovation within China’s rapidly growing artificial intelligence (AI) and data center sectors.The investigation is believed to center on several key allegations. First, SAMR is looking into whether Nvidia has engaged in unfair pricing practices, particularly for its high-end AI chips that are essential for training large language models and other AI applications. Given that Nvidia holds a near monopoly in this space, with an estimated 90% market share, it is in a powerful position to dictate prices. The second major accusation is that Nvidia may be imposing restrictive contract terms on Chinese customers, forcing them to purchase other Nvidia products or services as a condition for getting their hands on the highly sought-after GPUs. This kind of "tying" arrangement is a classic target for anti-monopoly regulators.This investigation is not just about fair business practices; it is deeply intertwined with the geopolitical struggle for technological supremacy. The U.S. has imposed strict export controls on advanced AI chips to China, a move explicitly aimed at hindering the country's military and technological progress. In response, China is reportedly trying to boost its domestic chip industry. By taking action against a foreign company like Nvidia, Beijing may be sending a strong signal that it will not tolerate what it sees as market manipulation, while also potentially clearing the way for Chinese competitors to gain a stronger foothold.For Nvidia, the probe poses a significant business risk. China is one of its largest markets, and any penalties or restrictions on its operations could deal a major blow to its revenue. The company has already had to develop specialized, less powerful chips for the Chinese market to comply with U.S. export rules. A separate anti-monopoly investigation adds another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.The outcome of this investigation will have far-reaching implications for the global tech industry. If found guilty, Nvidia could face a massive fin
The Earth BioGenome Project: A Global Effort to Map All Life A new study on the DNA of Australia's peacock spider is captivating scientists and may hold a key to understanding how new species develop. Researchers are investigating the spider's "dark DNA," which may be the reason for its unusually high rate of speciation. While most animals have evolved into only five or ten distinct species, the tiny peacock spider has diversified into more than 100, making it a unique subject for genetic research. Scientists believe the secret lies not just in their visible genes, but in the mysterious parts of their genetic code that have long been an enigma.The "dancing" peacock spider is famous for its vibrant colors and intricate courtship rituals, which involve complex dance moves and rhythmic drumming. This behavior is at the center of the research. A team from the Sanger Institute is meticulously collecting and analysing samples from all known peacock spider species, cross referencing their DNA with their unique behaviors and songs to uncover which genes are responsible for specific traits. This work is fundamentally driven by questions about the process of how new species emerge over time and how biological diversity is created.The study has found that these spiders have three times more "dark DNA" than humans. Dark DNA refers to the vast majority of DNA sections that do not contain genes, and their function is largely unknown. Researchers propose that this dark DNA might be responsible for the spider's ability to quickly adapt to environments and form new species. While the research is still in its earliest stages, the team is optimistic that they have found a strong cause to investigate further. A better understanding of this dark DNA could change the way we understand evolution and contribute to broader efforts to map all living species' genomes.This groundbreaking research has implications far beyond the world of arachnids. The study of these rapidly diversifying creatures could provide a strong example for understanding evolution across all life forms. Sexual selection, with females choosing mates based on their dances and appearance, is also a potential driving force behind their rapid evolution. The hope is that by studying extreme cases like the peacock spider, scientists can gain general principles about how genes and dark DNA work, which in turn could shed light on how all living things evolve and relate to one another. The findings could contribute to the Earth BioGenome Project's mission to decode the genomes of
The regulatory hurdles facing drone delivery services The idea of receiving a steaming hot meal delivered by drone may sound futuristic, but the technology is edging closer to reality. Companies around the world are testing drones as an alternative to traditional delivery services, with promises of speed, efficiency, and reduced traffic congestion. As food delivery demand continues to rise, the question is no longer whether drones can deliver but when they will become a regular feature of urban life. Several pilot projects have already demonstrated the potential. In parts of the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, drones are being used to carry lightweight orders such as coffee, snacks, and fast food. Supporters argue that drones can slash delivery times, bypass road traffic, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with motorbike or car-based services. For restaurants, the technology offers a way to reach customers more quickly and expand service areas without relying heavily on human couriers. Yet challenges remain before drone delivery becomes mainstream. Regulations governing airspace, safety, and privacy are still evolving, and authorities are cautious about allowing large-scale operations in crowded cities. Technical limitations such as battery life, payload capacity, and weather conditions also restrict what drones can realistically carry. While a pizza or a cup of noodles may be feasible, larger family orders are currently beyond the capability of most delivery drones. Consumers, meanwhile, are curious but divided. Many welcome the novelty of high-tech deliveries and the promise of faster service. Others worry about noise, safety, and the potential loss of jobs in the gig economy. Some industry experts suggest that drones are most likely to succeed in niche areas—such as delivering food to remote locations, office complexes, or events—before scaling up to mass adoption in dense urban areas. Looking ahead, the next few years will be crucial in determining whether drones become a standard part of food delivery. As governments refine regulations and technology improves, the possibilities for broader use will expand. Companies are already investing heavily, betting that consumer appetite for speed and convenience will drive acceptance. Whether it is a box of sushi or a cup of hot coffee, the future of food delivery may soon take to the skies.
From Tourism to Technology The Caribbean’s Shift Toward Digital Innovation In recent years, artificial intelligence has emerged as a powerful tool for economic growth, with even small nations finding innovative ways to harness its potential. A tiny Caribbean island has become a striking example of how technology can generate new opportunities, attract investment, and diversify an economy that has long depended on tourism and agriculture. By strategically adopting AI solutions, the island has managed to create a model that not only brings in millions of dollars but also positions it as a hub for digital innovation in the region. The government of the island recognized early on that relying solely on tourism left the economy vulnerable to global disruptions such as pandemics and recessions. To address this challenge, officials partnered with international tech firms and startups to develop AI driven initiatives in sectors ranging from finance and logistics to healthcare and education. These projects have attracted both foreign investors and local entrepreneurs eager to be part of a growing digital ecosystem. The result has been a steady stream of revenue, new jobs, and rising international visibility. One of the most successful ventures has been the use of AI in financial services. By providing infrastructure for blockchain analysis, fraud detection, and digital payments, the island has carved out a niche in the fintech sector. Similarly, AI applications in agriculture have improved crop yields and reduced waste, while AI assisted health care solutions have expanded access to services in rural areas. Together, these efforts demonstrate how technology can reshape traditional industries and bring new income streams to small economies. The rise of AI on the island has also had an important cultural impact. Young people who might have once left for opportunities abroad are now finding meaningful work at home in technology, research, and creative industries. Universities and training centers have launched AI focused programs, ensuring that local talent can participate in the digital transformation rather than being left behind. This emphasis on human capital development has helped create a sustainable base for future innovation. Looking ahead, the island faces the challenge of balancing growth with regulation, ensuring that AI is used responsibly while continuing to attract international interest. If it can maintain this balance, experts believe it could serve as a blueprint for other small nations seeking to modernize their economi