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25 Oct. 13:47

Manhattan-Sized Comet Draws Attention of International Astronomers

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The comet 31/ATLAS, roughly the size of Manhattan and weighing around 33 billion tons, has become a focus of international astronomical study. According to Avi Loeb from Harvard University, this object far exceeds previously observed interstellar bodies, with a mass at least a thousand times greater than similar comets.

Loeb highlighted several unusual characteristics of 31/ATLAS. Notably, the comet exhibits an anti-tail—a stream of particles pointing toward the Sun rather than away, contrary to normal comet behavior. There was also detection of nickel emissions without iron, a rare phenomenon for such objects.

The comet also shows non-gravitational acceleration, and its trajectory suggests close approaches to several planets in the Solar System, including Jupiter, Venus, and Mars. Although NASA has not reported any threat, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) has initiated monitoring of the object. Observations are planned from November 27, 2025, to January 27, 2026.

Loeb urged the international community to remain vigilant regarding the comet and be prepared for potential unpredictable events.

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22 Dec. 10:50

TikTok Reaches Agreement to Restructure Its U.S. Operations

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TikTok has entered into an agreement to transfer control of its U.S. business to a newly formed investor-led joint venture. The decision was revealed through reports citing internal company documentation.

Under the terms of the deal, which is expected to be finalized on January 22, 2026, Oracle, Silver Lake, and the Abu Dhabi–based investment firm MGX will collectively acquire a 45 percent stake in TikTok’s American operations.

The joint venture, to be headquartered in Washington, will oversee data protection, algorithm security, content moderation, and software quality standards. These steps are designed to strengthen regulatory compliance and international confidence in the platform, including interest from regions such as Turkmenistan.

The move follows an executive order signed on September 26 by U.S. President Donald Trump, requiring the sale of TikTok’s U.S. assets to American investors.