The Economic Times

The year 1946 saw a remarkable feat by the US Army as they bounced radar signals off the Moon, demonstrating that radio waves can traverse the ionosphere. This innovative test, called Project Diana, utilized modified radar equipment from WWII. The successful detection of lunar echoes not only confirmed this capability but also served as a catalyst for the evolution of radar astronomy and the broader realm of space exploration.

Mark your calendars! The NFL preseason kicked off on August 6 with the Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Carolina Panthers taking on the Arizona Cardinals. Now the preseason week 1 starts from today. Fans can enjoy an array of games spanning three weeks, broadcasted on local affiliates and national networks, with the NFL Network offering a robust lineup throughout the season.

Benes can appear as informal shorthand for benefits, while Beneis a Czech and Slovak surname derived from Benedikt, or Benedict. This Word of the Day explores the different uses of the term, its linguistic roots and how context can give the same spelling very different meanings.

Everyday life shows how opinions differ on art and people. A Korean proverb explains this subjective perception. It highlights that beauty and value are seen through personal lenses. Understanding varied perspectives fosters respect and reduces conflict in relationships. Embracing diverse viewpoints enriches life and strengthens individual growth.

Larsen & Toubro will build India's largest single-cluster artificial intelligence infrastructure facility. This project marks the company's entry into the AI Factory business. The facility will house ten thousand NVIDIA B300 GPUs for AI workloads. It will combine hyperscale data center infrastructure and accelerated computing capabilities.

Tamil Nadu's government signed ninety-seven new MoUs totaling over sixty-seven thousand crore rupees. These agreements were exchanged at the Vettri Tamil Nadu Investors Conclave 2026 event. The pacts are expected to generate employment for more than one lakh individuals across various sectors. Key industries benefiting include automotive, renewables, and life sciences. Electronics, R&D, and data centres also represent significant investment areas.

Parliament has approved the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. This legislation aims to enhance mineral exploration and development across India. It provides greater flexibility for mining lease holders regarding additional mineral inclusions. The bill also removes restrictions on the sale of minerals from captive mines.

Vibrio Vulnificus Louisiana Outbreak: Louisiana has reported five deaths linked toVibrio vulnificusinfections, raising concerns about the flesh-eating bacteria found in warm coastal waters. Here is what to know about the outbreak, oysters, symptoms and safety precautions.

Harbhajan Singh defends Gautam Gambhir against criticism for his coaching methods. He acknowledges Gambhir's straightforward approach may be difficult for some to accept. Gambhir's coaching saw India win major tournaments while facing Test defeats. Harbhajan believes Shubman Gill is an ideal leader for the Indian cricket team. He rates Gill highly as a cricketer and a human being.

Tata Trusts said Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT) cannot participate in its meeting due to restrictions imposed by the Charity Commissioner, preventing SRTT and Sir Dorabji Tata Trust from jointly nominating three members to the search committee for N Chandrasekarans successor. Tata Trusts may seek urgent legal relief, while Tata Sons reviews whether its August 18 AGM can proceed.

Kitchen cabinet shelves often attract dust and sticky residues, turning cleaning into a difficult task. However, a clever hack using aluminum foil creates a barrier over these shelves, capturing spills and crumbs before they cling to the surface. Once the foil gets dirty, simply peel it off and lay down a fresh piece. This technique streamlines kitchen upkeep and prolongs shelf cleanliness, making your space more manageable.

Maharashtra plans to make Marathi language knowledge mandatory for all cab drivers. Drivers failing to meet this requirement face potential license suspension or cancellation. The state transport minister confirmed the August 15 deadline for compliance. This rule aims to improve communication and ensure safer journeys for passengers.

Josh Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital, is set to buy the Los Angeles Lakers alongside former Disney CEO Bob Iger in a reported $12.5 billion deal. The blockbuster transaction has put Kushner in the spotlight, raising interest in the businessmans career, multibillion-dollar fortune, family background and rise from tech investor to NBA team owner.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims nearly nine million barrels daily leave the Strait of Hormuz. Vessel tracking services, however, report volumes closer to half this amount. Total Middle East crude exports remain below pre-conflict levels, according to tracking data.

Britain's economy saw unexpected growth in June, with gross domestic product rising. The economy expanded by 0.4% during the second quarter, exceeding forecasts. Keir Starmer resigned as prime minister amid political uncertainty during this period. New Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged to lower business costs and address household expenses. The Iran war is expected to slow future growth due to rising energy prices.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has joined a new political party. This move follows a court order impacting his former party's leadership. The new party aims to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan's long rule. Imamoglu faces corruption charges which he denies. The opposition's splintering could benefit the president's prospects.

Smelly shoes are a common issue, and simple solutions exist for this problem. Letting shoes air out completely helps reduce moisture and bacteria growth. Baking soda sachets can absorb humidity and eliminate unpleasant smells from footwear. A mixture of baking soda and white vinegar tackles stubborn odors effectively. Regular care and proper drying will keep your favorite shoes fresh.

Ancient philosopher Mencius believed true greatness lies in retaining a child's heart. Modern pressures can erode qualities like kindness and curiosity over time. Mencius's teaching suggests maturity does not require sacrificing sincerity and compassion. This wisdom encourages preserving essential human qualities despite life's complexities. Adults can gain wisdom without losing their innate sense of wonder and care.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson highlighted environmental concerns regarding oil pollution. Recent pollution along Qeshm Island shores points to a foreign bulk carrier. Iran demands compensation for extensive environmental damage over decades. The Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until US conditions are met. Commercial shipping continues under tight security amid volatile regional tensions.

Trump was secretly moved to a smaller military jet after an Iranian threat during his return from the NATO summit in Trkiye. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained on a decoy aircraft, while journalists and some White House staff believed Trump was aboard.

Since taking office, Giorgia Meloni's fashion has undergone a remarkable transformation. Embracing pastel hues and elegant silhouettes, she projects an aura of confidence and authority. This shift not only aligns with her pragmatic stance on the European Union but also signifies her evolution from an outsider to a respected leader.

Following a Supreme Court ruling that mandates the return of collected tariffs, major shipping companies are now issuing significant refunds to consumers.

Gold prices rose Rs 1,400 in two sessions, while MCX silver slipped marginally as softer US inflation lowered expectations of a near-term Fed rate hike. Investors now await US PPI data for further cues, while analysts expect profit booking in gold.

Human remains found during a 2023 demolition were identified as Brenda Marie LeBlanc. She had disappeared in the 1990s and was originally from New Brunswick. Genetic genealogy identified the remains in 2025 after years at the vacant property. Police are investigating LeBlanc's death as a homicide after the discovery. Authorities seek information regarding LeBlanc's whereabouts and activities during the 1990s.

Ford plans to move some Lincoln vehicle production from China to the United States. This significant shift is scheduled to begin in the year 2030. Tariffs and restrictions on Chinese technology influenced this strategic decision. US-produced models will be sold within the domestic American market. This move aims to bolster the American auto manufacturing base.

Warner Bros. and the Barbie creative team face stalled sequel negotiations. The team seeks higher upfront and backend compensation for the film. The studio has made multiple offers which were reportedly rejected. Active development is needed within four months to retain rights.

American Airlines is reorganizing its senior management team. New roles are being added to broaden oversight and boost performance. A former Spirit Airlines executive will now lead technical operations. The airline aims to close its profit gap with competitors like Delta and United. These changes are the first step in strengthening the team and accelerating execution.

Powerball draw: The Powerball jackpot has soared to approximately one billion dollars, marking it as the eighth-largest prize ever in the games history. The last winning jackpot was awarded to two fortunate players on May 2. Drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evening, with tickets available in forty-five states and additional territories.

President Trump visits California and Nevada to contrast his economic policies with Democrats. He aims to bolster Republican support in upcoming November elections. Trump will discuss the economy and criticise Democratic policies during his trip. California's governor criticizes the president's visit as a fundraising and attack mission.

Gold prices have soared to a two-month peak as consumer inflation in the U.S. showed signs of cooling. This easing in inflation has reduced the likelihood of an immediate interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve. Financial markets are now looking forward to the upcoming producer price data to validate this trend.

Oil prices dipped as demand forecasts for 2026 were lowered due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. Despite supply concerns from the conflict, a surprise build in U.S. crude inventories and stalled talks with Iran are impacting the market, with shipping risks in key straits adding to volatility.

Donald Trump is facing a lawsuit from The Intercept and Freedom of the Press Foundation seeking to halt Truth API, a paid service offering early access to his Truth Social posts. The plaintiffs allege the service violates the First Amendment and creates financial conflicts because Trump, Truth Media's largest shareholder, benefits.

Quote of the day by Hilary Duff offers a simple but powerful reminder about personal freedom. Other people will form opinions, make assumptions and interpret our choices through their own experiences. We cannot control all of that, and trying to do so can distract us from the life directly in front of us. What we can control is how thoughtfully we respond, whose advice we value, which criticism we learn from and which judgments we leave behind.

Quote of the day by Reese Witherspoon is a reminder that a meaningful life cannot be reduced to a perfect record of achievements. Every day will not produce a victory, and every year will not unfold according to plan. There will be missed opportunities, unexpected changes, disappointments and moments when progress seems frustratingly slow. But there will also be laughter, connection, growth, kindness, courage and unexpected reasons to be thankful.

In 1847, a Scottish obstetrician showed the world the use of chloroform as an anaesthetic during childbirth and surgery. Sir James Young Simpson tested the substance with colleagues in Edinburgh and later used it to reduce pain. His work helped spread anaesthesia in medicine and changed how doctors approached childbirth and surgical procedures.

In 1893, Rudolf Diesel published his design for a compression-ignition engine that aimed to improve engine efficiency and reduce dependence on existing steam and gasoline systems. His work later became the basis of diesel engines used in ships, trains, trucks, generators and industrial machines. Diesel also explored vegetable oils as fuel. His career later faced financial problems before his disappearance at sea in 1913.

European proverb of the day: A fair face may hide a foul heart teaches that physical beauty and a pleasant appearance do not reveal a person's true character. The proverb warns against judging people through looks, smiles or polite words. It says that actions, behaviour and time are better ways to understand intentions, character and motives.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will depart her role in August. She wishes to dedicate more time to her young children and family. Leavitt will continue serving as a top outside advisor to the President. She has been praised for her work since 2018 and her influence. Leavitt will also assist the Republican Party in upcoming midterm elections.

Arabic proverb of the day explains how promises gain value through action. The saying compares a promise with a cloud and fulfillment with rain. It teaches that words can create hope, but actions create results. The proverb also connects trust with accountability, consistency, reputation and past behavior. Its message remains useful in relationships, work and daily life.

Swahili proverb of the day: A Swahili saying teaches us that love is best expressed through tangible actions. True affection manifests not in grand promises, but in small, thoughtful deeds performed daily. Such consistent efforts pave the way for trust and solidify relationships, reminding us that our actions reveal the importance of those we cherish.

Quote of the Day by Ed Sheeran: Ed Sheerans quote, I want to have a career that evolves as I go on, explores the importance of growth, adaptability, creativity, and continuous development in professional life. The quote suggests that a successful career does not have to remain fixed, but can change naturally as a person gains experience, discovers new interests, and embraces new opportunities.

Quote of the day by Blake Lively focuses on women becoming agents of change instead of only receiving the benefits of progress. Her statement about female empowerment, self-advocacy and active leadership explains why women can take ownership of their narratives, question limits, use their voices and take part in decisions that shape workplaces, industries and society.