Science Saturday: XR, CES 2024, climate change and space exploration

Extended reality

Get ready for a new entertainment experience! Apple is launching its new Vision Pro in the United States in February and in other countries later this year. Priced at $3,500, you can soon watch new shows and films from top streaming services, transport yourself to beautiful landscapes and enjoy an all-new spatial experience. It's an in-home 3D adventure like never before! Apple says its aim is to transform the virtual experience sector.

CES 2024

Artificial intelligence took center stage at CES 2024! The Consumer Electronics Show is the world's premier tech show. Held in the U.S. city of Las Vegas last week, it featured the latest innovations in the consumer electronics industry. The highlight of this year was how AI is driving innovations in people's lives, such as in food, retail and restaurant experiences. More than 130,000 attendees and over 4,000 exhibitors from more than 150 countries and regions attended the event.

Climate change

The world's largest ape is extinct due to climate change! A new study reveals that Gigantopithecus blacki struggled to survive after its habitat slowly transformed and its favorite food sources were reduced due to climate change. The primate, a distant cousin of orangutans, used to roam the forests of what is now southern China for 2 million years. It could grow up to 3 meters tall and weigh up to 270 kilograms.

Space exploration

Another delay for NASA's astronaut moon landing! The first human moon landing in more than 50 years has been delayed from late 2025 to September 2026. Challenges include developing the starship for lunar landings amid recent test failures and complex refueling plans. NASA also cites delays in spacesuit engineering. Its plan to send four astronauts on a voyage around the moon and back this year is also delayed to 2025 due to safety and technical issues.