Hypersonic plane ‘Talon-A2' that can circle ENTIRE earth in less than 7 hours at 4,000mph makes successful test flight
A HYPERSONIC plane that can travel around the entire Earth in less than seven hours has made two successful test flights.
Talon-A2 reached an incredible 3,800mph while in flight - more than five times the speed of sound.
6
6
6
The ground breaking flights were conducted in December 2024 and March 2025, the Pentagon 's Defence Department has revealed.
A simulation of a Talon-A2 flight shows the hypersonic drone being blasted into the sky by a carrier jet before zooming off.
Talon-A2 was launched from the world's biggest plane, Roc.
The giant carrier plane holds the record for the largest wingspan - coming in at a whopping 385-feet.
Once in the sky the hypersonic drone was released over the Pacific Ocean before later landing at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
During its flight Talon-A2 reached a jaw-dropping speed of 3,800 mph - which is more than five times the speed of sound.
But it's no surprise it can travel so quickly as the vehicle is powered by a hefty 5,000lb-thrust rocket engine.
Talon-A2 is operated by Stratolaunch - a company founded in 2011 by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen - as part of a Pentagon Defense Department initiative.
The historic flights mark the first time the US has conducted reusable hypersonic testing since its X-15 programme.
The X-15 programme was a collaboration with NASA, the US Air Force and the Navy.
The programme operated for nearly 10 years - setting a record speed of 5,100mph - before it was terminated in 1968.
This comes as the US has ramped up its hypersonic weapons research as tensions with China and Russia reach boiling point.
Meanwhile, a hypersonic passenger jet which could take travelers from London to New York City in just one hour is set to arrive as "as soon as the 2030s".
The Venus Stargazer is being developed by Venus Aerospace who revealed that it was planning a flight demo "later this summer".
The company said that thanks to a Nasa-funded breakthrough, the "record-setting" engine system is nearly ready to try out for real.
Venus hopes that its rocket engine will be able to blast passengers around the Earth in record time.
" Stargazer M4 is Earth's first hypersonic, reusable aircraft," Venus Aerospace boasted.
"No one has ever built a hypersonic platform that makes two-hour global transport cost-effective. Until now.
"Our flagship product, Stargazer, will ascend from a central airport using advanced propulsion systems.
"Our vehicle will accelerate from taxi to cruise speeds of Mach 4 at 110,000 feet with a top speed capable of Mach 9."
The engine is set to feature a new Nasa-funded nozzle design. That's the part of the rocket that "shapes and directs power".
This hi-tech nozzle will reportedly allow for speeds exceeding Mach 5 – or about 3,800mph.
6
6
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The Dark Side of AI: Are We Racing Toward a Future We Don't Want?
What if the future everyone is racing toward isn't the one we actually want? As artificial intelligence hurtles forward, promising to transform industries and redefine the workforce, the conversation often centers on its dazzling potential—efficiency, innovation, and progress. But beneath the surface lies a far more unsettling reality: the very foundation of our professional lives is shifting, and not necessarily for the better. Imagine a world where entry-level jobs vanish, career ladders collapse, and economic inequality deepens as millions are left scrambling to adapt. This isn't science fiction; it's a looming possibility that few are willing to confront openly. The AI future we're building may not be the one we're prepared to live in. Ai Grid explore the uncomfortable truths about AI's impact on work, society, and identity—realities that are too often glossed over in the race to embrace automation. From the disappearance of critical stepping-stone jobs to the psychological toll of widespread job displacement, the challenges ahead are as profound as they are complex. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities to rethink what work means and how we can shape a more equitable future. By examining the risks, the societal implications, and the potential solutions, this piece invites you to grapple with the question: Are we ready for the AI future we're creating? AI's Impact on Jobs How AI Is Transforming the Workforce AI is already transforming industries such as finance, law, consulting, and technology by automating tasks traditionally performed by humans. Entry-level positions are particularly vulnerable, with experts estimating that up to 70% of these roles could be affected. This shift could result in a 10-20% increase in unemployment as AI systems take over tasks such as: Document review: Automating the analysis of legal and financial documents. Automating the analysis of legal and financial documents. Data analysis: Using AI to process and interpret large datasets more efficiently than humans. Using AI to process and interpret large datasets more efficiently than humans. Customer service: Replacing human representatives with AI chatbots and virtual assistants. These roles, often seen as critical stepping stones for career growth, are at risk of disappearing, creating an 'experience gap' that could hinder younger workers from advancing professionally. Even physical labor jobs, once considered less susceptible to automation, are increasingly at risk. Advances in robotics are allowing machines to perform tasks in manufacturing, warehouse operations, and other traditionally human-dominated fields. This trend is shrinking job opportunities across multiple sectors, leaving fewer options for workers at all skill levels and intensifying the need for adaptability. Economic and Societal Implications The widespread adoption of AI is expected to create profound economic and societal challenges. As jobs disappear, securing sustainable employment or advancing in your career may become more difficult. The loss of entry-level roles disrupts traditional career pathways, leaving many workers without the foundational experience needed to transition into higher-level positions. On a broader scale, economic inequality could widen as individuals with AI-related skills thrive while others struggle to adapt. This disparity may exacerbate social tensions, as the psychological toll of job insecurity and financial instability grows. The potential for social unrest underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges through proactive measures. The societal impact extends beyond economics. Communities may face shifts in identity and purpose as traditional industries decline. The psychological effects of widespread job displacement, including stress and anxiety, could further strain social systems. These challenges highlight the importance of fostering resilience and adaptability at both individual and societal levels. The AI Future Nobody Wants To Talk About Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on AI job displacement by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Corporate Strategies: Automation as a Priority Many companies are adopting 'AI-first' strategies, prioritizing automation to reduce costs and improve efficiency. This trend is evident across various industries, with notable examples including: Amazon: Using warehouse robots to streamline operations and reduce reliance on human labor. Using warehouse robots to streamline operations and reduce reliance on human labor. Media outlets: Organizations like Business Insider employing AI tools for content generation, leading to workforce reductions. Organizations like Business Insider employing AI tools for content generation, leading to workforce reductions. Freelance platforms: Platforms such as Fiverr encouraging workers to integrate AI tools into their services to remain competitive. These corporate strategies emphasize the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements. By understanding how AI is reshaping industries, you can better position yourself to adapt and remain competitive in an increasingly automated job market. Addressing the Challenges: Potential Solutions To mitigate the challenges posed by AI, several strategies are being proposed to ensure a smoother transition for workers and society: Upskilling and Adaptation: Developing expertise in AI tools and focusing on areas where human creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking remain essential. Combining technical skills with uniquely human capabilities will be crucial for long-term success. Developing expertise in AI tools and focusing on areas where human creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking remain essential. Combining technical skills with uniquely human capabilities will be crucial for long-term success. Universal Basic Income (UBI): As automation reduces job opportunities, UBI is gaining traction as a potential safety net. This approach aims to provide financial stability while society adjusts to the new economic landscape. As automation reduces job opportunities, UBI is gaining traction as a potential safety net. This approach aims to provide financial stability while society adjusts to the new economic landscape. Policy and Regulation: Governments must prioritize discussions on AI governance, creating policies that manage the transition and ensure equitable distribution of AI's benefits. Effective regulation can help mitigate economic disruption and promote societal well-being. These solutions require collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments to address the multifaceted challenges posed by AI. By taking proactive steps, society can better navigate the complexities of this technological transformation. Emerging Opportunities in the AI Era While AI is expected to displace many jobs, it will also create new opportunities in emerging fields. Growth is anticipated in areas such as: AI-related roles: Careers in machine learning, data science, and AI system development. Careers in machine learning, data science, and AI system development. Green technologies: Jobs in renewable energy solutions and sustainable development. Jobs in renewable energy solutions and sustainable development. Healthcare: Roles in AI-driven diagnostics, personalized medicine, and advanced medical research. However, administrative, clerical, and repetitive physical labor jobs are likely to decline. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of reskilling to bridge the gap between displaced workers and the demands of the future job market. By focusing on education and skill development, you can position yourself to thrive in these emerging industries. Adapting to Rapid Change The rapid pace of AI development is compressing the timeline for societal adaptation. Automation of automation—where AI systems improve themselves—further accelerates this transformation, making traditional economic adjustments more challenging. This raises critical questions about the future of work: Will AI augment human labor or replace it entirely? For you, this means staying informed and adaptable is more important than ever. Understanding AI's trajectory and its implications can help you make strategic decisions about your career and future. By embracing lifelong learning and focusing on areas where human skills remain indispensable, you can navigate the uncertainties of the AI era with confidence. Shaping the Future with AI The fantastic impact of AI demands preparation and collaboration at every level. As a worker, prioritizing education and skill development is essential to remain competitive in an AI-driven economy. Companies must adopt ethical approaches to AI deployment, making sure that technological advancements benefit both businesses and employees. Governments, meanwhile, have a critical role in establishing regulatory frameworks and supporting societal adaptation. The AI era presents both challenges and opportunities. By taking proactive steps today, you can help shape a future where technology enhances human potential rather than replacing it. The choices made now will determine whether AI becomes a tool for empowerment or a source of disruption. Your ability to adapt and prepare will be key to thriving in this rapidly evolving landscape. Media Credit: TheAIGRID Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Reuters
an hour ago
- Reuters
Meta in talks for Scale AI investment that could top $10 billion, Bloomberg News reports
June 8 (Reuters) - Meta Platforms (META.O), opens new tab is in talks to make an investment that could exceed $10 billion in artificial intelligence startup Scale AI, Bloomberg News reported on Sunday.
Geeky Gadgets
2 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Beyond the Basics: 10 Surprising iPad Features You Need to Try
Your iPad is more than just a sleek device for browsing and entertainment—it's a robust tool packed with features that can elevate your productivity, creativity, and organization. Whether you're a casual user or a tech-savvy professional, understanding its capabilities can help you unlock its full potential. In the video below from Proper Honest Tech are ten impactful features your iPad offers right now, each designed to enhance your experience and streamline your tasks. Watch this video on YouTube. 1. Multitasking Made Simple The iPad's multitasking features are designed to streamline your workflow and make managing multiple tasks easier. With Split View, you can display two apps side by side, allowing you to compare data, reference information, or work on two projects simultaneously. For example, you could have a document open on one side while researching in Safari on the other. The Slide Over feature adds a floating third app to your workspace, ideal for quick tasks like replying to messages or jotting down notes without disrupting your main activities. Switching between apps is seamless—just swipe along the bottom of the screen to toggle between open apps. Additionally, Safari supports multiple windows, allowing you to manage research or projects across various tabs and views. These multitasking tools make your iPad a powerful device for productivity. 2. Intuitive Gesture Controls Gesture controls on the iPad make navigation faster and more intuitive, reducing your reliance on physical buttons. For instance: Swipe up with three fingers to access the App Switcher, allowing you to quickly move between open apps. Pinch with five fingers to return to the Home Screen instantly. You can also customize corner gestures for specific actions, such as taking screenshots, opening Quick Notes, or activating other shortcuts. These gestures are particularly useful for multitasking, as they allow you to perform actions with minimal effort. By mastering these controls, you can work more efficiently and navigate your iPad with ease. 3. Apple Pencil: A Customizable Power Tool The Apple Pencil is more than just a stylus—it's a versatile tool that adapts to your workflow. Its double-tap feature can be customized to switch between tools like the eraser and pen or to trigger shortcuts such as undo. Some models even allow you to squeeze the Pencil to activate specific actions, adding another layer of functionality. Whether you're sketching, annotating documents, or navigating your iPad, the Apple Pencil enhances precision and productivity. It's particularly valuable for creative professionals, students, and anyone who frequently works with visual or written content. By exploring its customization options, you can tailor the Apple Pencil to suit your specific needs. 4. Enhanced Safari Features Safari on the iPad is optimized for efficiency and productivity, offering features that make browsing more user-friendly. If you accidentally close a tab, the Show All Windows option allows you to recover it instantly, saving time and effort. Safari also identifies key details like phone numbers, addresses, and dates directly from web pages, allowing you to interact with this information without additional steps. For users who rely on the web for research or work, these features streamline the browsing experience. Whether you're managing multiple tabs or extracting important details from a webpage, Safari's enhancements help you stay organized and focused. 5. Quick Notes for Instant Ideas Capturing ideas on the go is effortless with Quick Notes, a feature designed for convenience and accessibility. By swiping from the bottom-right corner of the screen, you can create a note instantly, without needing to open the Notes app. These notes can be resized and positioned anywhere on your screen, making it easy to jot down thoughts while multitasking. Quick Notes are perfect for saving to-do lists, web links, or spontaneous ideas. They integrate seamlessly with other apps, making sure that your notes are always accessible when you need them. This feature is particularly useful for professionals, students, and anyone who values organization. 6. Effortless Screenshots Taking screenshots on the iPad is faster and more flexible than ever, thanks to customizable corner gestures. By swiping from the bottom-left or bottom-right corner, you can capture your screen instantly. For added functionality, these gestures can also be configured to trigger Quick Notes, allowing you to annotate or save visual information on the fly. This feature is especially useful for saving important details, sharing content, or creating visual references. Whether you're working on a project or simply browsing, the ability to take and manage screenshots efficiently enhances your overall experience. 7. Keyboard Shortcuts for Efficiency If you use a keyboard with your iPad, you can unlock a range of keyboard shortcuts that simplify common tasks. By holding the Command key, you can view app-specific shortcuts, such as opening new tabs in Safari, formatting text in Notes, or navigating between apps. These shortcuts are invaluable for professionals who rely on their iPad for writing, editing, or managing projects. They help reduce the time spent on repetitive actions, allowing you to focus on your work. Incorporating a keyboard into your iPad setup can significantly enhance your productivity. 8. Focused Reading with Line Guide The Line Guide feature in the Books app is designed to improve focus and comprehension. By highlighting one line of text at a time and dimming the surrounding content, it creates a distraction-free reading environment. This tool is particularly helpful for reading dense or complex material, such as academic texts or technical documents. You can adjust the dimming levels to suit your preferences, making sure a comfortable reading experience. Whether you're studying, working, or reading for leisure, the Line Guide feature helps you stay engaged and focused. 9. Customizing Default Apps Customizing your iPad's default apps allows you to tailor the device to your workflow. For example, you can set your preferred email client, web browser, or messaging app as the default, making sure a seamless experience when opening links or composing messages. This feature is particularly useful for users who rely on third-party apps for their daily tasks. By aligning your iPad's settings with your preferences, you can create a more efficient and personalized experience. 10. Smarter QR Code Scanning with Live Text The Live Text feature takes QR code scanning to a new level of convenience. Instead of requiring a separate app, you can scan QR codes directly from your screen—even in screenshots. Simply tap the code to access the linked content instantly. This feature is a significant time-saver for both personal and professional use. Whether you're accessing event details, making payments, or exploring new content, Live Text simplifies the process and enhances your iPad's functionality. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on iPad multitasking features. Source & Image Credit: Proper Honest Tech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
