NASA's Orion capsule makes its closest approach to moon

14 Sept 01:45 Key points summarised by AI

NASA's uncrewed Orion capsule, part of the Artemis I mission, achieved its closest lunar approach in 50 years, flying within 80 miles of the moon's surface.
This critical flyby, setting Orion on its return path for a Dec. 11 splashdown, also saw the capsule travel farther than any previous human-rated spacecraft, reaching nearly 270,000 miles from Earth.
The mission serves as a vital test for the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon this decade, establish a sustainable base, and pave the way for future human exploration of Mars.
A primary objective of Orion's inaugural flight is to rigorously test the durability of its heat shield during its high-speed re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

Thailand secures US$200m World Bank loan for clean energy and low carbon cities

Today 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand secured a US$200 million loan from the World Bank to significantly invest in clean energy and low-carbon urban development initiatives.
The program aims to drive clean energy funding and low-carbon growth, ensuring a just transition for small and medium-sized enterprises, workers, farmers, and local communities.
Channelled through the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, the loan will fund energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas, including rooftop solar installations and electrical system modernizations, reducing initial capital burdens via Energy Service Companies (ESCOs).