Latest news with #TMT
Gizmodo
2 days ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
The U.S. Could Lose a Crucial Futuristic Telescope to Spain if Trump's Budget Passes
Spain has offered to spend up to €400 million ($471 million) to host the Thirty Meter Telescope, an enormous observatory project facing imminent cancellation due to U.S. budget constraints. If Spain strikes a deal, the TMT would be built on La Palma in the Canary Islands rather than on Mauna Kea, a mountain in Hawaii. In 2016, La Palma became the backup location for the observatory in case the primary site in Hawaii didn't work out as an option, according to the TMT International Observatory. Now more than ever, it looks like that may be the case. President Donald Trump's Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal for the National Science Foundation (NSF), which is funding the TMT's development, would reduce the agency's budget by nearly 60%. To make ends meet, the NFS has opted to halt progress on the TMT and instead prioritize development of the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) project in Chile. Now that U.S. investment in the TMT has been thrown into question, Spain is chomping at the bit to take over the project. On July 23, Diana Morant, the Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities in Spain, announced that the Spanish government is willing to pay hundreds of millions of dollars to move construction of the telescope to La Palma. 'Spain wants and can be the home of the future of astronomy and astrophysics,' Morant said, according to a statement translated from Spanish. 'We have the capacity and the political will to do so.' The TMT would bring significant scientific value to Spain. With its nearly 100-foot-wide (30-meter-wide) light-collecting mirror, this optical telescope would be one of the largest in the world. It's one of three huge ground-based telescopes currently in development, including the GMT and the European Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). Spain already contributes to the ELT—the largest of the three telescopes. Once complete, these huge observatories will allow astronomers to study the cosmos with extremely high resolution. In response to Morant's announcement, the TMT International Observatory said there has not been a final decision about the telescope's future at its primary site in Hawaii. Whether Trump's budget proposal actually passes will likely be the deciding factor, and there's reason to believe that it won't. Congress has shown signs that it would broadly resist NSF budget cuts, according to Inside Higher Ed. Still, the project faced significant hurdles long before Trump's second term, largely due to mounting federal pressure on the NSF to cut costs by pursuing one major telescope project instead of two. The TMT has also been mired in controversy due to the fact that its primary construction site is located on a sacred Hawaiian mountain. In 2019, thousands of protestors gathered on the Mauna Kea Access Road to halt construction of the telescope, according to the Honolulu Civil Beat. TMT developers chose this site for its exceptionally dark, light pollution-free skies, making it a premier vantage point from which to observe the cosmos. There are already 13 astronomical observatories seated atop this mountain. La Palma isn't as advantageous. The Spanish site sits at a significantly lower altitude than Mauna Kea, which means the telescope would have to peer through more layers of the atmosphere. This would lower the quality of observations, according to Nature News. If the U.S. moves forward with the proposed NSF budget, that may be a sacrifice worth making. Spain certainly seems to think so. 'Faced with the risk of paralyzing this major international scientific project, the Spanish government has decided to act with a redoubled commitment to science and major scientific infrastructures for the benefit of global knowledge,' Morant said.
The Australian
2 days ago
- Business
- The Australian
Sovereign AI needs solutions for the energy bottleneck
Artificial intelligence is fast becoming the backbone of innovation across Australia, powering everything from public services to national defence capabilities. But behind this lies a critical dependency: infrastructure. Without sovereign control of the data centres, chips, and power systems that fuels our AI, Australia risks falling behind in the global digital race. As AI's influence grows, so does the need for Australia to develop and control AI technologies within its borders. That is, national AI governance and development. A concept known as 'sovereign AI'. Sovereign AI ensures systems reflect Australian values and ethics, comply with regulations, and support the country's strategic interests. Relying on overseas infrastructure to support our AI capabilities has the potential to impact our ability to retain economic value and independent control over critical digital infrastructure, including safeguarding our data. In this way, sovereign AI is not only a matter of technological capability but also of national security and long-term economic resilience. But it requires more than just models and algorithms. It also needs chips, onshore data centres and electricity. Lots of electricity. Data centres need 24/7, reliable, high-quality electricity supply with built-in redundancy. Deloitte's TMT Predictions 2025 highlights that the rapid growth of AI data centres is already pushing operators to adopt more sustainable and forward-looking technology and energy solutions. Peter Corbett is National Telecommunications, Media and Technology Industry Lead Partner at Deloitte Australia Elsewhere, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has forecast that data centres could consume up to 15 per cent of the country's electricity by 2030 under a high-growth projection. Even the more conservative projection estimates an 8 per cent share (up from 5 per cent today). For Australia, this presents a real challenge. Building sovereign AI capability in any serious sense will require investment in the technology and energy infrastructure to power our data centres. If not, we risk importing capability through hyperscalers (large cloud service providers), ceding control and sovereignty in the process. Or alternatively (and possibly even worse) building data centres on a grid that is not equipped to support its needs. At the heart of this challenge is a shift in the software-hardware dynamic. Historically, hardware has always led while software followed. Now, the coin has flipped, and AI development is surging ahead of infrastructure. Software capabilities are outpacing the physical systems required to support them. Hardware, energy, and networks are playing catch-up to software's rapid evolution. So, what technologies can we adopt to prevent this energy bottleneck constraining our nation's sovereign AI capacity? One of the most promising pathways to manage the surging power demands of generative AI is improving chip-level energy efficiency. A new generation of gen AI–specific chips can now train advanced models in 90 days while consuming just 8.6 GWh, less than one-tenth the energy of prior-generation chips for the same task. Both the private sector and government need to work together to secure a pipeline of chips from global manufacturers to ensure Australia can access the latest high-efficiency semiconductors. Another key technology driving lower data centre energy usage is liquid cooling. It can reduce power consumption by up to 90 per cent compared to traditional air-based systems and is better suited to manage the intense heat generated by densely packed, high-performance AI chips. However, it also introduces water usage concerns, as AI data centres may require vast quantities of freshwater for cooling, a resource that is both finite and increasingly under pressure. Balancing energy efficiency with sustainable energy production and responsible water use will be critical as this technology scales. In Australia, one solution is to co-locate data centres with renewable energy infrastructure. Projects like Snowy Hydro 2.0 provide access to water, energy and grid infrastructure that can grow alongside data centre demand. Similarly, positioning centres near wind or solar farms offers an opportunity to use clean power while reducing the need for additional infrastructure. Offloading AI workloads to edge devices is another tool to manage power demands. This is especially effective for applications where latency is crucial or where sensitive data and privacy needs are high. By processing data locally, edge computing reduces reliance on central data centres and limits the transmission of sensitive information across networks. This not only conserves energy and reduces network strain, but also strengthens data security by keeping information closer to its source. As edge capabilities grow, this distributed approach will enable a more efficient and secure balance between edge and core infrastructure. Australia must align its digital ambitions with its physical infrastructure capacity. As the nation advances towards sovereign AI capabilities, energy availability and management represent significant constraints. Through deliberate frameworks and robust public-private collaboration to drive strategic infrastructure investment and technologies, Australia can establish the foundation necessary to support a secure and sustainable AI ecosystem. Peter Corbett is National Telecommunications, Media and Technology Industry Lead Partner at Deloitte Australia. - Disclaimer This publication contains general information only and Deloitte is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this publication. About Deloitte Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ('DTTL'), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. Please see to learn more. Copyright © 2025 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved. -
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
6 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Your brain might have aged faster during the pandemic, even without Covid-19
The Covid-19 pandemic may have accelerated the ageing of the human brain, even in people who were never infected, according to a new study. Mounting stress, prolonged isolation, and widespread disruption during the pandemic appear to have left lasting biological effects on brain structure. Researchers have now found measurable signs of this accelerated ageing across the general population, with older adults, men, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds being most affected. The study, led by researchers at the University of Nottingham and published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications, titled Accelerated brain ageing during the Covid-19 pandemic, analysed brain scans of 996 healthy adults sourced from UK Biobank, which holds the de-identified biological and health data of over half a million people. The scans taken before and after the pandemic showed that brains aged an average of 5.5 months faster during lockdown. The findings showed that while men aged about six months faster, women aged by around 4.5 months. Those from disadvantaged backgrounds experienced up to seven months of additional brain ageing. According to the researchers, this is the first major study to isolate pandemic stress from actual Covid infection and still find evidence of measurable brain ageing. How did researchers measure brain ageing? Using AI models trained on more than 15,000 brain scans, scientists calculated each participant's 'brain age gap'—the difference between how old their brain appeared versus their actual age. A larger gap indicated faster ageing. They compared people scanned twice before the pandemic with those scanned once before and once after. The latter group, who lived through lockdowns, social isolation, and economic stress, showed significantly faster brain ageing. Can stress actually age your brain? Emerging research suggests it can. Chronic stress, lack of social stimulation, disrupted routines, and reduced cognitive engagement can all affect brain regions responsible for memory and executive function. The researchers emphasised that brain health is shaped not only by disease but also by environmental factors and everyday experiences. Who was most affected by accelerated brain ageing? According to the study, the most affected groups were: Men (33 per cent more acceleration than women) Older adults Individuals from low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds The findings suggest that socioeconomic vulnerability, limited healthcare access, and lower social support systems heightened the impact of pandemic-related stress. How did Covid infection affect the brain differently? While brain ageing was seen across the general population, cognitive decline was reported only in those who had been infected with Covid-19. Infected individuals performed worse on mental flexibility and processing speed tests, especially the Trail Making Test (TMT), which is often used to assess early dementia symptoms. Thus, while pandemic stress altered brain structure, infection was linked to functional cognitive decline. Are these brain changes permanent? It is unclear. Since the study only measured two time points per person, researchers cannot yet confirm whether brain ageing will stabilise or reverse over time. However, they remain cautiously optimistic. 'Our study highlights the pandemic's significant impact on brain health, beyond direct infection effects, and underscores the need to address broader social and health inequalities,' the authors noted. How can you protect your brain now? Even if the pandemic aged your brain slightly, there are proven ways to support brain health: Maintain regular social connections Engage in physical activity Follow a brain-healthy diet Prioritise mental well-being and sleep Keep your mind active with learning and problem-solving While ageing is inevitable, experts say the rate of cognitive decline can still be influenced. According to experts, by avoiding certain everyday habits, like prolonged sitting, skipping meals, excessive screen time, chronic stress, and social isolation, we may be able to slow down cognitive ageing and protect our mental well-being.
Mint
6 days ago
- Business
- Mint
Upcoming IPO: VMS TMT gets SEBI nod to launch IPO
VMS TMT Limited has been issued final observation by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), allowing them to raise funds through an initial public offering (IPO). The company submitted its IPO documents to SEBI on March 27, 2025. The initial public offering includes a completely fresh issue of 1.5 crore equity shares, according to the draft documents submitted on March 27, 2025. Previously, on September 27, 2024, the firm had submitted draft documents for an IPO of the same size but subsequently retracted that draft on October 23. The company based in Gujarat intends to allocate ₹ 115 crore from the net proceeds of the IPO for debt repayment, with the remainder designated for general corporate uses. Promoters possess a 96.28% ownership in VMS TMT. The other 3.72% of shares are held by public shareholders, which include Chanakya Opportunities Fund I and Kamdhenu. Arihant Capital Markets has been designated as the sole book running lead manager for managing the public issue. VMS TMT Limited specialises in the production of Thermo Mechanically Treated Bars (TMT Bars), with its manufacturing plant situated in Bhayla Village, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. TMT Bars are known for their high strength and are widely utilized in the construction sector because of their superior strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. The company primarily operates in the State of Gujarat, with over 97.49% of its operational revenue derived from this region. VMS TMTL Limited has strategically emphasized the retail sector, which accounts for more than 77.48% of its current revenue from operations. The company promotes and sells TMT bars under the Kamdhenu brand name. At present, VMS TMT boasts a strong distribution network that includes 3 distributors and 227 authorized dealers. This network effectively spans key areas throughout Gujarat, omitting the Saurashtra and Kutch regions. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Livintech Expo 2025 by TMT: ‘Biggest tech fair for Malaysians'
LOCAL technology retailer Thunder Match Technology Sdn Bhd (TMT) will be organising LivinTech Expo 2025, 'the largest and most anticipated tech fair of the year'. Organised in collaboration with Courts Malaysia, the event will take place at Level 5 (Pink Zone) of the Pavilion Bukit Jalil Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur, on Aug 1-3. The company says the event promises to be a defining moment for Malaysians, showcasing how innovation is reshaping homes, workplaces and lifestyles across the nation. LivinTech Expo 2025 will feature more than 100 local and international brands offering cutting-edge products and solutions that redefine modern living. From high‑performance PCs, laptops and gaming rigs to AI‑powered gadgets, smartphones, components and accessories, visitors will experience first-hand how the latest tech is transforming the way we work, play and connect. 'LivinTech Expo 2025 is set to be Malaysia's biggest and most exciting tech fair in recent years, and certainly the most ambitious expo we've ever curated,' said TMT sales and marketing director Eric Chan. 'Malaysia has not seen a tech fair of this scale in many years and that inspired us to take on the challenge of creating something truly remarkable. That is why we are introducing LivinTech Expo 2025, bringing together an unprecedented mix of brands, products and experiences, from cutting‑edge PCs and smartphones to AI innovations, along with exclusive promotions and deals you simply will not find anywhere else.' The three-day event, expected to welcome more than 60,000 visitors, will feature Malaysia's most dynamic brands alongside leading international names, with interactive zones and live showcases offering hands‑on experiences with breakthrough technologies. It is a celebration of how innovation, from AI devices to the latest gaming console and peripherals is shaping the way we live, work and play. Adding to the excitement, visitors who spend more than RM500 during the expo will stand a chance to win from a prize pool worth RM20,000. The first 100 customers each day will receive exclusive early-bird rewards, while special bonus hours at 1pm and 7pm will feature limited-time offers and surprise promotions. 'Part of what makes LivinTech Expo special is the energy and spontaneity we want visitors to feel when they are here,' said Chan. 'We truly hope that every visitor who walks through the LivinTech Expo will leave feeling inspired – whether it's discovering a new gadget that makes life easier or simply enjoying immersive innovation up close. We want this expo to spark new ideas and possibilities for everyone.' As Malaysia's largest technology retailer with 48 branches nationwide, TMT continues to strengthen its market leadership through strategic engagement and a focus on elevating the customer experience. For more information, visit TMT's official website here, official Facebook page here, official Instagram account here and official TikTok account here.
