Current Affairs - May 26, 2024 Current Affairs

The University of Tokyo inaugurated the Atacama Observatory (TAO) in Chile's Antofagasta Region, situated at an elevation of 5,640 meters above sea level. This observatory has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the highest observatory globally. Led by Professor Yuzuru Yoshii, TAO aims to delve into cosmic mysteries such as dark energy and primordial stars, benefitting from its high-altitude location and advanced technological infrastructure.

Swiggy collaborated with "SHIELD" to enhance its fraud prevention capabilities within its Delivery Partner ecosystem. This partnership leverages SHIELD's device-first risk AI platform to minimize promo abuse and fraudulent activities, allowing Swiggy to focus resources on genuine users and improve overall platform integrity.

The world's first fully biodegradable pen, named the NOTE pen, was launched in India by Saurabh H Mehta from New Delhi. Featuring a recycled paper refill, non-toxic ink, and options of metal, paper, or bamboo exteriors, this innovation aims to address the significant issue of plastic waste generated by billions of discarded ballpoint pens annually.

The AK-203 assault rifles were delivered to the Indian Army from an Indo-Russian joint venture. Despite previous delays attributed to various factors, including the war in Ukraine and payment issues, the delivery marks progress in defence self-reliance and underscores the strong defence partnership between India and Russia.

Ed Dwight, America’s 1st Black astronaut candidate, made history by travelling to space at the age of 90 aboard a Blue Origin rocket, 60 years after he was initially considered for NASA’s astronaut corps. This milestone marked a significant moment in both space exploration and racial history.

Jyoti Atre, aged 55, from Bhopal, achieved the feat of becoming the oldest Indian woman to summit Mount Everest. She reached an altitude of 8,848.86 meters on her second attempt after weather conditions disrupted her 2023 climb at 8,160 meters. Jyoti Atre surpassed the previous record held by Sangeeta Bahl, who scaled Everest on May 19, 2018, at the age of 53.

World Turtle Day is celebrated annually on May 23 to promote awareness about the conservation of turtles and tortoises. It was initiated by American Tortoise Rescue in 2000 to educate people about the ecological importance of these creatures and the need for their protection. Activities such as adopting turtles or tortoises, donating to conservation efforts, or volunteering at rescue centres are encouraged to mark this day.

Sirbaz Khan, a notable Pakistani mountaineer, scaled Mount Everest without supplementary oxygen, marking him as the second Pakistani to achieve this feat. Khan aims to become the first Pakistani to conquer all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters. Starting his mountaineering career in 2016, he has since emerged as a pioneering figure in high-altitude climbing in Pakistan.

Australia and Uzbekistan have been selected as hosts for the 2026 and 2029 AFC Women’s Asian Cups, respectively. This decision underscores the increasing significance of women's football in Asia. While Australia will be hosting the event for the second time, Uzbekistan will become the first Central Asian nation to host the tournament. The AFC President, Shaikh Salman, announced this decision, with China currently holding the title of the AFC Women's Asian Cup champions.

Nishad Kumar and Preethi Pal secured medals at the World Para Athletics Championships held in Kobe, Japan. Kumar won a silver medal in the T47 high jump category, while Preethi Pal secured a bronze medal in the women's T35 200m final.