The ITER project in Provence, France, aims to demonstrate the feasibility of nuclear fusion at an industrial scale, using the world's largest magnetic confinement chamber, or tokamak. Signed in 2006 by multiple countries, the project has faced delays and budget increases but remains a significant international collaboration. Nuclear fusion offers a safer and less radioactive alternative to fission, with the potential to provide clean energy in response to climate change challenges. Despite setbacks, the project aims to stick to its 2035 target for the start of fusion operations.

In Provence, scientists are constructing the world's largest magnetic confinement chamber, the ITER project, to demonstrate the feasibility of harnessing nuclear fusion at an industrial scale. The project, involving over 30 countries, aims to generate net energy by 2035 despite facing significant technical and financial challenges. ITER's fusion method, which uses a tokamak to confine charged particles with a magnetic field, promises a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional nuclear fission. The project underscores the importance of international collaboration and the potential of fusion energy to address long-term energy and climate challenges.

The ITER project in Provence, France, aims to demonstrate the feasibility of nuclear fusion at an industrial scale using the world's largest magnetic confinement chamber, or tokamak. Signed in 2006 by multiple countries, the project has faced delays and budget increases but maintains international collaboration despite geopolitical tensions. Nuclear fusion offers safety and waste management advantages over fission, but challenges remain in achieving the high temperatures and precision required. ITER's success is seen as crucial for long-term clean energy solutions, especially in the context of climate change.

In Provence, scientists are working on the ITER project, aiming to demonstrate the viability of nuclear fusion, the same reaction that powers the Sun, on an industrial scale. The project involves constructing the world's largest magnetic confinement chamber in southern France. ITER, a collaboration of over 30 countries, faces challenges such as high temperatures and precise engineering. Despite delays and increased costs, the project aims to start operations by 2035. Fusion offers significant safety and environmental advantages over fission, with minimal radioactive waste. The project has endured geopolitical tensions, driven by a shared vision of clean energy to combat climate change.

Researchers from George Mason University's College of Public Health and Northeastern University in the United States have published research indicating a strong link between exposure to common pesticides and a decrease in sperm count. The study, which systematically reviewed 25 studies over a 50-year period, found consistent associations with lower sperm concentrations when exposed to organophosphates and N-methylcarbamates, two widely used classes of insecticides. The findings highlight the public health concern, especially for men planning to start families, and suggest policymakers should recognize insecticide exposure as a public health issue. Over the past 50 years, global sperm counts have halved, with recent trends showing an acceleration since the beginning of the century.

A study by researchers from George Mason University and Northeastern University indicates that pesticide exposure significantly reduces sperm concentration. The research, published in 'Environmental Health Perspectives,' reviewed 25 studies over 50 years, focusing on organophosphates and N-methylcarbamates. Findings show a consistent association between these pesticides and reduced sperm quality. Experts emphasize the public health risks and call for reduced pesticide exposure, especially for men planning to start families. The study aligns with previous research showing a global decline in sperm counts over the past 50 years, with an accelerated trend in recent decades.

Researchers from George Mason University and Northeastern University have found a strong link between exposure to common insecticides and lower sperm counts in men. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, reviewed 25 studies over 50 years and highlighted the impact of organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates on sperm concentration. The findings underscore the need for reducing insecticide exposure, especially for men planning to start families, and call for policymakers to address this public health issue.

A report by the Irish Civil Liberties Council (ICCL) warns of a 'European Security Crisis' due to the distribution of sensitive data through Real-Time Bidding (RTB) technology. The report highlights that RTB data, often including location and personal information, is being used to target EU military personnel and political decision-makers, posing risks of blackmail and hacking. The ICCL calls for urgent action from the US Federal Trade Commission and European authorities. Google and Microsoft are named as major players in the RTB system, with Google refuting claims of data misuse. The report underscores the need for stricter data protection measures to safeguard national security.

Researchers from George Mason University and Northeastern University have published a study linking common pesticide exposure to lower sperm concentration. The study, featured in Environmental Health Perspectives, reviewed 25 studies over 50 years, focusing on organophosphates and N-methylcarbamates. Findings consistently showed reduced sperm concentration linked to these insecticides. Public health concerns are raised, especially for men planning families. The study calls for policy recognition of insecticide exposure as a public health issue. Sperm counts have halved globally in the past 50 years, with an accelerated decline noted since the early 2000s.

In his Parisian restaurant, Chef Laurent Veyet creates gastronomic dishes featuring insects, promoting an eco-responsible culinary vision for sustainable food in the future. The FAO estimates a 70% increase in food production is needed to meet future demand, and edible insects offer a viable solution with their low environmental impact and high nutritional value. Wageningen University's Arnold Van Huis emphasizes the need for dietary changes due to the environmental challenges of traditional livestock farming. Despite initial reluctance, Chef Veyet has become a fervent advocate for insect consumption in Europe.

In a Parisian restaurant, Chef Laurent Veyet incorporates edible insects into his dishes, promoting them as a sustainable food source. Highlighting the environmental benefits, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced land and water use, the article discusses the potential of insects to meet the growing global food demand. Experts like Arnold Van Huis emphasize the need for dietary changes to accommodate the increasing population. Despite initial hesitations, Veyet has become a strong advocate for insect consumption, aiming to raise awareness about the environmental impact of our food choices.

On October 7, Hamas launched hundreds of rockets from Gaza into Israel, marking the start of 'Operation Al-Aqsa Flood' and escalating the military conflict in the Middle East. Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system, developed by the state-owned defense company Rafael since its deployment in 2011, has been a key element of the country's defense infrastructure, claiming a 90% interception rate. The system, designed to intercept rockets with a range of 4 to 70 km, consists of radar, the Tamir interceptor missile, and a command and control center. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) tout its effectiveness, experts like Jean-Loup Samaan of the Middle East Institute at the National University of Singapore question the metrics, noting the system only targets rockets threatening civilian areas. The Iron Dome's operational costs are high, with each Tamir missile costing around $50,000, leading Israel to seek financial support from the United States, which has provided nearly $3 billion for the system. Despite its operational success, the Iron Dome does not deter Palestinian groups from launching rockets, as evidenced by a recent surge in attacks from Hamas. The system's defensive capabilities are crucial, especially given the potential for regional escalation and the significant rocket arsenal of groups like Hezbollah.

The article discusses the Iron Dome, Israel's missile defense system, highlighting its development by Rafael, its operational components, and its claimed 90% interception success rate. Expert Jean-Loup Samaan questions the effectiveness and strategic impact of the system, noting its limitations and the continued threat from groups like Hamás. The article also covers the financial aspects, including significant U.S. funding, and the potential for regional escalation involving Hezbollah. Humanitarian concerns are raised regarding the impact of Israel's response on Gaza.

The Iron Dome, Israel's missile defense system developed by Rafael, has been crucial in intercepting rockets from Gaza, boasting a 90% success rate according to Israeli authorities. However, its effectiveness is debated, with experts like Jean-Loup Samaan questioning the accuracy of these claims and noting that it only targets rockets threatening populated areas. The system, partially funded by the U.S., faces challenges from increased rocket attacks by Hamas and potential threats from Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties and raised humanitarian concerns from the UN.

The Iron Dome, operational since 2011, serves as Israel's primary defense against rocket attacks. The article delves into the workings of this missile defense system, featuring insights from an expert to explain its functionality and significance.

The European Commission has reimposed a fine of approximately €376.36 million on Intel for breaching EU antitrust rules in the computer chips market by engaging in practices that excluded competitors. This follows the annulment of a previous €1.06 billion fine by the European Court of Justice in 2022, which could not determine the extent of the fine related to 'naked restrictions' practices. Commissioner Didier Reynders emphasized the Commission's commitment to ensuring serious antitrust breaches are sanctioned.

Stefano Liberti, an award-winning filmmaker and journalist, discusses the financialization of the global food system and its impact on low-income countries. He explains how food has become a commodity subject to market speculation, which affects food prices and food sovereignty. The Russia-Ukraine war has exacerbated grain supply shocks, with futures contracts and deregulation in the 1990s allowing for increased speculation. Liberti suggests regulating food exchanges and building food production systems in low-income countries to regain food sovereignty. The podcast 'The Star Ingredient' where Liberti speaks is funded by the European Journalism Centre, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The commodification and financial speculation of food have disproportionately affected low-income countries, stripping them of food sovereignty and making them vulnerable to price shocks from global events like the Russia-Ukraine war. Stefano Liberti, an award-winning journalist, argues for re-regulating food markets and building local food production systems to protect these countries. Historical context is provided on the deregulation of food markets in the 1990s, and potential solutions include tighter financial regulations and support for indigenous food production.

The article discusses the increased use of VPNs in Iran as citizens attempt to bypass intensified Internet censorship following the death of Mahsa Amini and subsequent nationwide protests. It highlights the challenges Iranians face in accessing reliable VPN services due to government efforts to block international traffic and VPN providers. Expert commentary from Simon Migliano of Top10VPN provides insights into the technical aspects of VPN usage and government censorship tactics. Personal accounts from Iranian citizens illustrate the impact of these restrictions on daily life.

NASA's Artemis program aims to send the first person of color and the first woman to the moon by 2024, with the first unmanned lunar orbit mission, Artemis 1, scheduled for August 29, 2022. This mission will test the Orion crew capsule and the Space Launch System rocket over a 42-day expedition. Following missions will see astronauts orbiting the Moon and, by 2025, landing on it. These steps are part of NASA's broader plan to eventually send humans to Mars.

The article explores the potential erosion of the US dollar's dominance as the world's reserve currency, highlighting recent moves by the BRICS nations and other global powers to develop alternative reserve currencies. It discusses the historical context of the dollar's hegemony, the reasons countries hold foreign exchange reserves, and the impact of US sanctions on Russia. Expert Luca Fantacci provides insights into the possible future fragmentation of the international monetary system, with multiple strong currencies competing for regional hegemony.

The future of high-speed rail travel in Europe envisions seamless, rapid connections between major cities like Paris and Berlin, driven by innovations such as Hyperloop and maglev technologies. The European Commission and organizations like Shift2Rail are pushing for a Single European Railway Area to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Companies like Nevomo and Zeleros are at the forefront, developing advanced rail systems to replace short-haul flights and reduce emissions. The article highlights the potential for significant advancements in rail travel, supported by political momentum and technological innovation.

A new report by British satellite company Inmarsat reveals that 97% of people view space as a threat, with concerns centered on climate impact and space debris. Inmarsat's CEO, Rajeev Suri, emphasizes the overlooked benefits of space technology and calls for stricter regulations and international cooperation to mitigate space debris. The report highlights the need for the space industry to better communicate its positive contributions to gain public support.

Franck Zal, a marine biologist and CEO of Hemarina, has discovered that sea worms possess a unique hemoglobin molecule capable of binding and slowly releasing oxygen, which could revolutionize organ transplants. The product developed, Hemo 2 Life, is undergoing tests to extend the viability of organs before transplantation, potentially improving transplant success rates.

Omar Wael, a 13-year-old from Egypt, inspired by the film Ready Player One, is developing his own metaverse using his mother's old clothes to create a sensory vest and glove. His project, 'The Other World,' aims to facilitate virtual learning and reduce environmental impact. Wael has received various awards and seeks funding to further develop his innovative virtual social world.

At VivaTech in Paris, French start-up Embodme showcased the Erae Touch, a touch-sensitive music controller with a thousand force sensors, and a new touchless touchscreen technology. CEO Edgar Hemery highlighted the device's versatility and precision in musical articulation. The Erae Touch, on the market since 2020, has been endorsed by artists like Coldplay and Jean-Michel Jarre. The touchless technology allows interaction with devices from a distance, offering potential hygiene benefits and new user experiences.

The global space industry has evolved from state-driven initiatives to a fertile ground for private investment, with billionaires and governments investing heavily in satellites, asteroid mining, and space tourism. At VivaTech 2022, Luca del Monte from the European Space Agency (ESA) discussed efforts to make Europe a leading hub for space companies by focusing on nurturing local talent, ensuring access to capital, and speeding up processes. ESA aims to transform from a research agency to an enabler and accelerator for space projects, partnering with the European Investment Fund and the European Commission to boost venture capital and private equity investments in the space sector.

The United Nations, in collaboration with Oceanix, is developing floating cities to address the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels. Oceanix's pilot project in Busan, South Korea, aims to create sustainable, self-sufficient communities that can adapt and move as needed. The cities will utilize renewable energy sources, innovative waste management, and shared mobility solutions. The project, supported by UN-Habitat and the Centre for Zero Waste, seeks to provide a resilient and environmentally friendly living solution for coastal populations.

A Swiss company, AirYacht, co-founded by Guillaume Hoddé and Mathieu Ozanne, aims to revolutionize luxury travel by combining yachts with helium-filled airships. The concept envisions a 60-meter yacht that can fly, using hybrid power initially with plans to switch to electric or hydrogen propulsion. The founders are currently seeking funding to develop a prototype.

Researchers in Spain are testing a new system to manage the increasing number of drones expected by 2050, with estimates suggesting up to 7.5 million personal and commercial drones in European skies. The BUBBLES project, involving academia, industry, and European institutions, aims to develop a separation management system for unmanned aircraft systems. This system generates security bubbles around each drone to prevent collisions, with real-time risk calculations and proposed evasive maneuvers. Israel Quintanilla from the Polytechnic University of Valencia elaborates on the project's capabilities.

Russia's Ministry of Defence claimed the first combat use of a hypersonic weapon, the Kinzhal, in Ukraine. Hypersonic weapons are distinguished by their ability to change trajectory and evade radar detection. Dr. Chris Combs and Dimitry Stefanovich provide insights into the military and strategic implications of their use. The strikes targeted an underground weapons storage in Ivano-Frankivsk and a fuel storage site in Mykolayiv. The use of hypersonic missiles by Russia in Ukraine raises concerns about a new arms race and the testing of advanced weaponry in conflict zones.

Peter Ternstrom and Tomasz Patan, co-founders of Jetson Aero, have developed the Jetson One, a fully electric flying car designed for recreational use. The Jetson One, which complies with US regulations and does not require a pilot's license, has sold out its 2022 production. The aircraft features advanced automated software, making it easy for novices to fly. Regulatory challenges exist in Europe, where the classification of such aircraft remains unclear. Ternstrom warns that Europe risks falling behind the US in the air mobility sector if regulations are not established soon. The company plans to develop a two-seater model and eventually a four-seater flying car by 2030.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the country's nuclear deterrent forces to a high alert mode, a move that has caused concern among NATO allies and calls for restraint from China. Nuclear arms expert Pavel Podvig clarifies that this does not indicate an imminent nuclear strike but rather a state of readiness. Strategic nuclear weapons, which have the capability to cause massive destruction over large ranges, are distinguished from tactical nuclear weapons. Podvig suggests that if Russia were to escalate the nuclear threat, it could involve the movement of nuclear weapons, but currently, there is no such activity. The US and NATO allies have responded calmly, emphasizing the irresponsibility of bringing nuclear weapons into the conflict in Europe.

The Optima Classical Academy in Florida is pioneering a virtual reality school, providing up to 1,300 students with Oculus headsets for immersive learning experiences. The initiative aims to offer an alternative educational model in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, featuring live VR sessions and independent study. The school claims to be the world's first virtual classroom, allowing students to explore historical and astronomical subjects in a shared virtual environment.

The next generation of AI-powered chatbots, developed by Five9, aims to enhance customer service by using human-like voices and detecting emotional states. The technology, which breaks down audio into sounds and tones, has been trained using recordings from actors like Joseph Vaughn. Five9's AI agents have already handled over 82 million calls for various sectors, including healthcare and retail. The new Virtual Voiceover tech is set to launch next year, promising significant cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.

In 2021, despite COVID-19 restrictions, significant advancements were made in urban mobility and transportation technology. Cities like Barcelona, Heidelberg, and Paris made strides towards car-free initiatives. Richard Browning's jetsuit, tested by the British Royal Marines and UK Metropolitan Police, showed potential for mainstream use. The eVTOL aircraft market saw developments from companies like Volocopter, Airbus, and Urban Aeronautics. Klein Vision's AirCar completed its first inter-city flight. The EU adopted proposals to enhance the Trans-European Transport Network, and space exploration saw a record number of successful missions.

On December 22, NASA, the Canadian Space Agency, and the European Space Agency plan to launch the James Webb Telescope, the most advanced space observatory ever built, to Lagrange point 2. This mission, involving over 10,000 people from 17 countries and costing over €9.5 billion, aims to explore cosmic phenomena such as the Big Bang, exo-planets, and star formation. The telescope, equipped with advanced infrared capabilities and a significant sunshield, will take 29 days to reach its orbit. The launch, facilitated by Arianespace's Ariane 5 heavy launcher, marks a significant milestone in space exploration.

The 'White Fox' restaurant in Mosul has introduced robot waiters, programmed by the local University of Mosul's mechatronics department. The owner, Rami Chkib Abdelrahman, was inspired during lockdown to innovate and combine different concepts from around the world, resulting in a service that includes a robot server and an interactive table for orders. The service has been well received by locals, including blacksmith Bashar Mahmud, who expressed his admiration and preference for the restaurant.

Blockchain technology, often associated with Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, is a versatile and secure method for verifying data in a decentralized network. Originating from a 1991 proposal by Stuart Haber and Scott Stornetta, and later developed by Satoshi Nakamoto, blockchain ensures data integrity through cryptographic hashes and a series of interconnected blocks. Different types of blockchains, including public, private, hybrid, and consortium, offer various levels of accessibility and control. The technology's potential extends far beyond cryptocurrencies, promising transformative impacts across multiple sectors.

A Russian filmmaking duo, director Klim Shipenko and actress Yulia Peresild, are set to make history by shooting the first feature film in space. They will launch on October 5 for a 12-day shoot aboard the International Space Station, producing a film titled 'The Challenge' with the support of Roscosmos and Channel One Russia. The film's plot revolves around a doctor performing an urgent operation on an astronaut. Seasoned astronaut Anton Shkaplerov will accompany them, taking on multiple roles including mission commander and actor. The duo underwent rigorous training to prepare for the mission, impressing their chaperone with their dedication and performance.

In the Beaubourg neighborhood of Paris, the new pizzeria Pazzi is making waves by being staffed entirely by robots, handling everything from order-taking to pizza preparation. Co-inventor Sébastien Roverso highlights the efficiency and quality control offered by robotics, while chef consultant Thierry Graffagnino, a triple world pizza champion, emphasizes the challenge of working with live dough and expresses enthusiasm for the innovative collaboration. The project, which took eight years to develop, aims to provide a unique and enjoyable experience for customers.

A new electric boat designed by the Swedish company Candela Speed Boat aims to address Venice's erosion problem caused by motorboat wakes. The boat uses hydrofoils to lift its hull, reducing water friction and energy expenditure, and operates quietly on battery power. Mikael Mahlberg, the company's communications manager, emphasizes the boat's minimal maintenance costs and environmental benefits, positioning it as the future of boating.

Richard Browning, founder of Gravity Industries, has developed the world's fastest jetsuit, capable of reaching speeds up to 136 km/hr. Weighing approximately 30 kilos, the jetsuit has been tested by the UK's Royal Marines for potential military use and by the UK's Great North Air Ambulance Service for mountain rescue operations, demonstrating real-world applications beyond its science fiction origins.

Robots are venturing into the realm of art and creativity, exemplified by 'Ai-Da,' an AI robot showcasing her unique portraits at London's Design Museum. Developed by Engineered Arts and the University of Oxford, Ai-Da uses cameras and AI algorithms to create original artworks. The exhibition raises questions about the nature of creativity and the role of technology in art.

Hungary's government, led by Finance Minister Mihály Varga, announced a significant reduction in capital gains tax on cryptocurrency earnings from 30.5% to 15% as part of its COVID-19 relief efforts. This move aims to make Hungary a competitive jurisdiction for crypto investors. The announcement comes amid growing institutional interest in cryptocurrencies, with major banks like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Citigroup exploring or engaging in crypto trading. Additionally, the European Investment Bank recently issued its first digital bond on the Ethereum blockchain, signaling further confidence in digital assets.

Hydrogen-fuelled vehicles are emerging as a promising alternative to electric cars, offering faster refuelling times and longer ranges. In Australia, the ACT government has launched the country's first public hydrogen refuelling station, which has received zero carbon certification. This initiative aims to encourage the adoption of hydrogen cars, supported by optimistic views from key figures like Shane Rattenbury and Alan Finkel. The success of this project could pave the way for more hydrogen infrastructure, contributing significantly to Australia's green future.

Private aerospace companies are making strides towards interplanetary human existence, with Project Helios developing a system to extract oxygen and metals from lunar soil. Supported by the Israeli Energy Ministry and the Israel Space Agency, this technology aims to reduce the cost of space travel and sustain extraterrestrial colonies. The process, called molten oxide electrolysis, could also have environmentally-friendly applications on Earth. The ultimate goal is to support NASA's Artemis programme and future missions to Mars, with a hopeful timeline of ten years for operational technology on the Moon.

Dogecoin's value surged by almost 50% in 24 hours, driven by its addition to the eToro trading platform and an announcement from Gemini to list the coin. Despite its origins as a joke cryptocurrency, Dogecoin has gained significant traction, partly due to endorsements from high-profile figures like Elon Musk. The cryptocurrency, initially created by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, has become popular for microtipping on social media. However, its extreme price volatility has led some trading platforms like Coinbase to avoid listing it.

A thousand companies showcased electric cars and intelligent driving solutions at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show, themed 'Embracing Change.' The event aims to boost auto industry sales post-pandemic. Lincoln unveiled the Zephyr Reflection concept car and Lincoln Corsair PHEV, while Polestar displayed its fully electric Polestar 2. Electric vehicle sales in China have nearly tripled in early 2021. Experts from IHS Markit and BYD Auto highlighted the importance of government support, market capital, and telecommunication technology in driving the industry's growth.

3D printing technology is being leveraged by a new generation of entrepreneurs to revolutionize the construction industry, making it faster, cheaper, and more sustainable. Sam Ruben of Mighty Buildings highlights the zero-waste benefits and labor efficiency of 3D printed homes. Despite the potential, experts like Michelle Boyd from the University of California, Berkeley, emphasize the need for public and regulatory acceptance of this innovative building method.