Holy Grail of AI or hype? What OpenAI's GPT‑6 Astra can do, and what it can't

Pentagon Set to Choose Between Boeing and Northrop for Navy's Next Stealth Fighter

The US Department of Defense is nearing a decision on a multi-billion dollar contract for the Navy's next-generation stealth fighter jet. The two contenders in the running are aerospace giants Boeing and Northrop Grumman. The new aircraft is designed to succeed the ageing F/A-18 Super Hornet, which currently serves as a core carrier-based fighter. The future jet will incorporate advanced stealth capabilities and is projected to enter active service sometime in the 2030s.

Earthquake of magnitude 5.0 hits flood-ravaged Nepal

5.3-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Tibet Weeks After Deadly Border Floods

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Tibet shortly after a separate tremor hit the region last week. On August 26, catastrophic flash floods devastated areas along the Tibet-Nepal border, causing widespread destruction. The disasters have intensified concerns about the environmental vulnerability of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Scientists point to rising temperatures and accelerating glacier melt as key contributors to the flooding. The death toll in Nepal from the floods has climbed to 1,357 people.

Dembélé, Mbappé, Kane and Messi headline 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist

The 2026 Ballon d'Or race has officially begun, with a high-profile shortlist of contenders competing for football's most prestigious individual honour. Defending champion Ousmane Dembélé will face strong competition from Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, and Lionel Messi, among others. On the women's side, the contest is expected to see a shift in dynamics following the absence of previous winner Aitana Bonmatí. The winners across all categories will be revealed at a ceremony held in London on October 26.