China and Russia’s International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) plans to build a nuclear reactor on the Moon’s surface, according to a top Chinese space official. The project, part of China’s Chang’e-8 mission set for 2028, also includes installing solar arrays for power. China aims to construct a manned outpost near the Moon’s south pole by 2035, coinciding with NASA’s Artemis program that targets 2025 for its lunar landing. China envisions inviting 50 nations and thousands of global scientists under the “555 Project” to participate in ILRS. The initiative underscores China’s ambition to lead in space exploration and lunar colonization.
AI TO CURE ALL DISEASES?
Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis has made a bold prediction: AI could help eliminate all human diseases within the next decade. In a CBS interview, he explained how AI can dramatically shorten drug development timelines—from years to mere weeks—revolutionising healthcare. Hassabis also discussed the future of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), predicting it might emerge in 5 to 10 years. While today’s AI still lacks consciousness, its capabilities are expanding rapidly. Supporters, including Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas, are rallying behind this vision. Hassabis’ Nobel-winning work in protein structure prediction highlights AI’s potential to reshape medicine and extend human lifespans.
IMF DOWNGRADES ITS GLOBAL GROWTH FORECAST
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has downgraded its global growth forecast due to escalating US-China trade tensions. The IMF now projects 2.8% growth in 2025 and 3.0% in 2026—both lower than earlier estimates. These cuts follow a surge in tariff rates, with the US imposing 145% duties and China retaliating with 125%. The IMF warns that continued tariff hikes could lead to even greater economic losses for both nations. The US and China are urged to de-escalate the trade war as major trading partners and the global economy feel the impact of this ongoing conflict.
DELTA FLIGHT ENGINE CATCHES FIRE
A Delta Air Lines Airbus A330, flight DL1213, caught fire just before take-off at Orlando International Airport en route to Atlanta. Flames were spotted near the No. 2 engine during startup, prompting the crew to deploy emergency slides for immediate evacuation. All 282 passengers, along with 10 flight attendants and 2 pilots, exited safely with no injuries reported. Airport rescue teams responded swiftly to the incident. The airline confirmed that standard safety protocols were followed, and maintenance teams will investigate the cause of the fire. Shocking visuals of the blaze circulated widely on social media, sparking concern but no casualties.
US DEFENCE SECRETARY UNDER SCRUTINY
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is under intense scrutiny after reports revealed he shared sensitive military details about Yemen airstrikes in encrypted Signal chats, including with family members. The controversy intensified with Rep. Don Bacon becoming the first Republican to support his ousting. Hegseth has denied leaking classified “war plans,” asserting the messages were “informal, unclassified coordinations.” The leak has sparked debates on secure communication within the Pentagon and raised potential federal record-keeping violations. Despite ongoing investigations and staff resignations, Hegseth retains President Trump’s support. However, growing political pressure may soon force a leadership change at the Department of Defence.
