- Centerstage Events

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water in Mars

Scientists who have discovered liquid water below 6 to 12 miles under the surface of Mars, and the event listed on Monday, 12 August, 2024 takes the centerstage of this week.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 2

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water...

Scientists have discovered a reservoir of liquid water deep beneath Mars' rocky crust, according to data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander. The lander, which recorded over 1,300 Mars quakes from 2018 to 2022, helped researchers detect liquid water about 6 to 12 miles below the surface. This discovery is important for understanding Mars' water cycle and history. Previous evidence only showed water as ice or vapor on the planet.

Sunday, 11 August, 2024

The U.S. approves $20 billion in arms sales to Israel...

The U.S. approves $20 billion in arms sales to Israel, including over 50 F-15 fighter jets, air-to-air missiles, and other military equipment. Congress has been informed, but the weapons won’t be delivered immediately, with the earliest expected by 2026. The sale aims to strengthen Israel's military capabilities for the long term. The State Department emphasizes the importance of supporting Israel's self-defense as part of U.S. national interests.

Monday, 12 August, 2024

The World Health Organization declares mpox...

The World Health Organization declares mpox outbreaks in Congo and other African countries a global emergency, with cases spreading in over a dozen nations. More than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths have been reported, mostly in Congo. Few vaccines are available in Africa. The WHO and Africa CDC warn that the virus could spread further and call for international support to stop its spread, as deaths and cases continue to rise.

Tuesday, 13 August, 2024

The U.S. has approved the sale of 600 Patriot air defense...

The U.S. has approved the sale of 600 Patriot air defense missiles to Germany, costing around $5 billion. The deal aims to boost Germany's defense and enhance its cooperation with U.S. and NATO forces. The State Department has given approval, but Congress still needs to approve the sale. The Patriot system can defend against aircraft and missiles up to 100 kilometers away. Germany donated three systems to Ukraine after Russia's invasion in 2022.

Wednesday, 14 August, 2024

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has begun...

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has begun his second four-year term, focusing on economic growth and social reforms. After winning 58% of the vote in May, Abinader pledged to promote private investment, boost transparency, and strengthen public spending. He plans to double the country's $113-billion GDP by 2036. He also promised reforms on labor rights, social protection, and electoral independence, while criticizing Venezuela's recent elections. His Modern Revolutionary Party holds a strong legislative majority, easing the passage of reforms.

Thursday, 15 August, 2024

Lebanon's electricity company announces a complete power...

Lebanon's electricity company announces a complete power outage across the entire country, affecting essential services like the airport, Beirut port, and prisons. The shutdown is due to the Zahrani plant running out of fuel. Despite efforts to extend power, the plant’s fuel reserves are fully depleted. The company plans to restore electricity once gas oil is available. Beirut Airport is currently running on generators, with hopes the crisis will be short-lived.

Friday, 16 August, 2024

An oil spill, believed to originate from Venezuela's El Palito...

An oil spill, believed to originate from Venezuela's El Palito refinery, has contaminated a bay off the country's north-central coast in the Caribbean Sea. The spill has affected around 225 square kilometers, including the Morrocoy National Park, known for its beaches and mangroves. Some beaches and artisanal fishing boats in the Boca de Aroa area were impacted. The state-owned company PDVSA and the oil ministry have not yet commented on the incident. El Palito is Venezuela's smallest oil refinery.

Saturday, 17 August, 2024