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Fight, not Flight: Blue Origin sues NASA over $2.9 billion deal

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Blue Origin launches lawsuit against NASA after missing out on lunar lander contract to SpaceX.

Elon Musk (left) and Jeff Bezos (right) go head to head in the space race.

The firm of former Amazon boss Jeff Bezos is suing NASA over its $2.9 billion deal with Elon Musk.

The space agency awarded the pricey lunar lander contract to SpaceX, following the decision to fund one of the two companies back in April.

The funding will assist SpaceX in the development of a landing system that has the possibility to take astronauts down to the Moon’s surface by 2024. 

“Fundamental issues” Blue Origin Claims

Bezos’ firm Blue Origin says there were “fundamental issues” with the deal, after filing a lawsuit in the US Court of Federal Claims on Friday. 

With the support of the Government Accountability Officer (GAO), NASA made the decision to pick a single lunar lander provider due to a shortfall in funding. 

But Blue Origin says the decision is “unfair” and believe two providers are necessary to build the landing system. 

“The issues identified in this procurement and its outcomes must be addressed to restore fairness, create competition, and ensure a safe return to the Moon for America,” Blue Origin says.

The former Amazon boss’ firm and defence contractor Dynetics argue that NASA should award multiple firms with the funding. 

However the GAO rejected the complaint and says it “denies the protest arguments that NASA acted improperly in making a single award to SpaceX.”

NASA is yet to comment on the matter as officials review the details of the case, with a response expected by October 12.  

SpaceX is also yet to comment on the lawsuit.

Written by Rebecca Borg

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Big Tech, foreign governments react to Trump’s H-1B visa fee

Trump imposes $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, sparking urgent response from Big Tech and foreign governments

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Trump imposes $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, sparking urgent response from Big Tech and foreign governments

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In Short:
– Trump announced a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, starting next lottery cycle.
– Major companies urge H-1B holders to stay in the U.S. due to potential immigration issues.
Major technology companies and foreign governments are reacting to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas.
The charge will affect new applicants, not renewals or current holders, and is set to take effect in the next lottery cycle.The proposed fee could significantly impact technology and finance sectors reliant on skilled immigrants, particularly from India and China.

Companies such as Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Microsoft are advising their H-1B visa holders to remain in the U.S. and be cautious about international travel due to potential immigration status issues.


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Visa Implications

As Trump’s administration intensifies its immigration policies, major companies and officials abroad are assessing the implications.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs noted potential humanitarian consequences, highlighting disruptions for families. South Korea’s foreign ministry is also reviewing impacts on its skilled workforce.

Trump’s initiative aims to prioritise American workers and deter visa system abuses, according to a White House spokeswoman.

The full effects of this policy shift remain to be seen, with many companies weighing their next steps in response to this change.


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Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan meeting

Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan South Korea meeting to discuss trade and geopolitical tensions in six weeks

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Trump and Xi progress on TikTok deal, plan South Korea meeting to discuss trade and geopolitical tensions in six weeks

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In Short:
– Trump and Xi are progressing on a TikTok agreement and plan to meet in South Korea soon.
– Future discussions will address trade, security concerns, and regional tensions between the U.S. and China.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping made headway on a TikTok agreement and plan to meet in South Korea within six weeks.
Their call aimed to reduce tensions between the two superpowers, covering trade, illicit drugs, and the conflict in Ukraine. Despite suggestions of progress, a definitive agreement regarding TikTok remains unclear.Banner

The leaders agreed to further discussions at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in October.

Trump indicated that Xi would visit the U.S. later and that he would head to China next year.

Future Discussions

Trump confirmed that the TikTok deal is progressing, noting potential US control over the app’s algorithm.

Uncertainties remain, including ownership structure and control dynamics with ByteDance. Lawmakers express concerns over national security implications stemming from continued Chinese involvement.

Trump’s tariffs on Chinese exports have increased significantly, complicating relations further.

As trade discussions continue, regional tensions in Taiwan and the South China Sea remain on the agenda, though unaddressed in recent communications.


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Heathrow faces delays due to cyber attack disruption

Heathrow warns of delays following cyber attack disrupting European airports

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Heathrow warns of delays following cyber attack disrupting European airports

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In Short:
– Heathrow Airport warns of potential delays due to a cyber-attack affecting European airports.
– Passengers should arrive early and check updates with their airlines for regular information.
Heathrow Airport has issued a warning regarding potential delays following a cyber-attack that has impacted several European airports. Passengers are advised to arrive early and check for updates with their airlines.Banner

The cyber-attack, although primarily affecting systems in Europe, has caused ripple effects at Heathrow. Officials are working to restore normal operations as quickly as possible in coordination with European authorities.

Air Travel Impact

“It is still too early to say when the problem will be resolved,” it said.

Berlin Airport is also experiencing delays.

The attack targeted a business providing check-in and boarding systems for several airlines worldwide.

As a result, Brussels Airport staff are having to conduct manual check-in and boarding procedures due to the automated systems being down.

“This has a large impact on the flight schedule and will unfortunately cause delays and cancellations of flights,” it said in a statement on its website.

For further information on travel arrangements and logistics, please visit your respective airline’s website.


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