For the first time, one of the Space exploration by NASA managed to scoop up some rock sample from an asteroid; the technology was superb; spaceship approached the asteroid beyond the moon, just scoop up sample (same way Chandrayan did at moon surface), sent it to earth by parachute that landed on ground in Utah almost at the same spot that was designated originally and scientists were waiting to collect it! The spaceship continued its journey for further exploration. This may open up many new approaches in space mission.

      On the earth of course there are many pressing issues: Indonesia is moving fast forward in carbon trading whereas African countries want some form of tax to polluting countries to catch up with global climate control goals. With El nino active now, next year is expected to be major climate driven event of excessive warming. Already July was declared as the hottest month in living memory but 2024 may over take it - not a good sign of things to come. One good news - many car manufacturers around the world are now reducing the proportion of use of rare earth in many auto components as conservation measures as well as with an eye on global rare earth trading block. Recently concluded G20 in India made many lofty goals for action but it remains to be seen how sincere are nations to follow it up.

Happy reading!