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Scientists have recreated helium hydride ions, the universe’s first molecules, under lab conditions. The study reveals these ions were far more effective in driving early star formation than older theories suggested. Published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the research reshapes understanding of early cosmic chemistry and challenges assumptions about how quickly the first stars emerged.

Mercury’s surface reveals it has been shrinking for billions of years due to cooling and faulting. A new study estimates the planet’s radius has contracted by 2.7–5.6 kilometers, offering the most precise figures yet. The findings sharpen understanding of Mercury’s thermal evolution and could help scientists apply the same techniques to tectonic studies on Mars and other rocky planets.

NASA and ISRO’s joint NISAR mission has successfully deployed its 12-meter radar reflector in orbit. This unique satellite, carrying dual L-band and S-band radars, will monitor Earth’s glaciers, volcanoes, earthquakes, and ecosystems with unmatched accuracy. The milestone reflects decades of research and showcases the strength of U.S.-India space collaboration, aiming to revolutionize Earth observation for science, policy, and sustainable development.

SpaceX’s upcoming 10th Starship test flight, scheduled for Aug. 24 from Starbase, Texas, is a milestone for the company’s ambitious rocket program. The launch will validate deployment systems, engine restart capability, and controlled reentry maneuvers, all vital for future crewed missions to the moon and Mars.

Kapata Nataka Sutradhari is a Kannada-language drama film that stars Dhiraj MV in the lead role. The film follows a Muslim man who gets stuck under an elephant in a Hindu temple during a ritual to fulfil his wish. The movie explores themes of social issues and inequalities with humor. Streaming soon.

Airtel is currently experiencing a network outage, as reported by users across India. Over the past 30 minutes, users have taken to social media and Downdetector to voice their complaints. The issues reported include the inability to make calls, send messages, or access mobile internet services, with some devices showing “no signal.”

August will see several major game releases, including a host of remasters and remakes and new titles for the Nintendo Switch 2. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater releases on August 28 across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X, while Gears of War: Reloaded hits PC and consoles on August 26.

Google is reportedly testing a new Live Translate feature within Circle to Search. Though not active yet, it was spotted in the app drawer alongside screen translation and song recognition. When enabled, it lets users choose translation for the whole screen or specific apps. The tool reportedly launches with a rainbow edge animation and offers a movable floating overlay to set language, minimise, or crop text, though the crop tool isn’t working yet. Currently, dynamic translations appear only briefly, limiting proper testing.