Latest news with #LaPalma
Fast Company
4 days ago
- Science
- Fast Company
Trump's budget cuts may hand Spain a scientific prize worth billions
BY As the U.S. backs away from key climate, aid, and scientific investments, Europe is stepping in to pick up the slack. Europe's latest intervention? Saving a plan to build one of the world's largest, cutting-edge telescopes. This week, the Spanish government offered to pay $470 million to take over one of the most ambitious astronomy projects in history, known as the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). In the deal, Spain would also provide the unconstructed mega-telescope a home atop a rugged peak on La Palma, one of the Canary Islands off the coast of Africa. After massive proposed cuts to the National Science Foundation's $9 billion budget, the project faced a financing shortfall that likely spelled its doom. Trump's cuts, detailed in late May, slash the foundation's budget by more than half, jettisoning funding for the TMT while keeping another $3 billion telescope project, the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) – under construction now in Chile – alive. 'Faced with the risk of this major international scientific project being halted, the Government of Spain has decided to act with renewed commitment to science and major scientific infrastructures for the benefit of global knowledge,' Spain's Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities Diana Morant said. When constructed, the telescope will be a modern scientific marvel. Named the Thirty Meter Telescope for the size of its mirror, the project was designed to take on some of astronomy's most compelling questions, searching the deep skies for signs of extraterrestrial life, evidence of the universe's origins and clues about the nature of dark matter. Compared to images from the James Webb Space Telescope, a triumph of engineering itself, the TMT will produce images four times sharper. A controversial telescope Pondering the universe's biggest mysteries is a shared human experience, but the TMT's journey to investigate them has proven surprisingly divisive. The plan to build a mega-telescope with a mirror as big as a blue whale began in 2003. The project evolved over time into a consortium of scientists from around the globe, an organization now known as the TMT International Observatory (TIO). The group determined that the ideal site for the massive lens was the summit of Hawaii's highest peak, Mauna Kea. While Mauna Kea's high, dry summit attracts astronomy projects and already hosts thirteen other telescopes, the peak's history as a sacred place in Hawaiian culture prompted a public outcry from residents and conservationists who wanted the TMT built elsewhere. The mountain is known as the home of the god Wakea and plays a central role in native Hawaiian creation stories, a status that inspired a resistance movement against plans to further develop the area. It's not the project's first pick, but Spain's offer to host the project is a natural fit. The Spanish island of La Palma was already the telescope's backup plan, and like Mauna Kea it offers a remote, high perch with consistently clear skies and infrastructure already in place from other international observatories. 'In 2019, the Government of Spain already expressed its willingness for the TMT to be built on this island, and now, six years later, it is taking a decisive step with a strategic investment that will benefit the European Union, Spain, the Canary Islands, and especially La Palma,' Spain's Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities said. Trump-era cuts to science funding weren't the first time that the U.S. budget imperiled at least one of the two major next-generation telescopes in the works. With the GMT still on track, its counterpart might have a brighter future under an eager government across the ocean. 'While some countries are cutting science investments and even denying it, Spain is a refuge for science,' Morant said. The super-early-rate deadline for Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies Awards is tonight, July 25, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Apply today. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Taylor Hatmaker is a writer and photographer based on the West Coast. She was previously a Senior Editor at TechCrunch, where she specialized in social media, gaming and online culture. More
Globe and Mail
22-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Liminatus Pharma, Inc. Initiates Strategic Review of Blockchain-Integrated Treasury Strategy
LA PALMA, Calif., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Liminatus Pharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIMN), a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development of targeted cancer immunotherapies, today announced that it has initiated a strategic review to evaluate the potential inclusion of regulated digital asset strategies as part of its broader treasury management framework. This internal review is part of Liminatus's continued commitment to strong financial stewardship and balance sheet optimization. While its core focus remains firmly on advancing cancer therapies, the Company believes it is prudent to assess innovative financial instruments—including blockchain-based assets—that may enhance treasury efficiency and diversify non-operating capital reserves. 'Liminatus remains fully committed to our mission of developing life-changing cancer therapies,' said Chris Kim, CEO of Liminatus Pharma, Inc. 'At the same time, we believe responsible treasury management is essential to supporting our long-term goals. This review is not a shift in our business focus, but an effort to evaluate modern financial tools—such as regulated digital assets—that may enhance the way we manage non-operating capital.' Liminatus emphasizes that this is an exploratory process only. As of today, the Company has not entered into any agreements regarding the acquisition, custody, or use of digital assets. Any potential future steps would be subject to approval by the Board of Directors and undertaken in full alignment with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations and public company disclosure standards. About Liminatus Pharma, Inc. Liminatus is a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing immunotherapies for patients with cancer. The Company is advancing a pipeline of novel therapies targeting cancer antigens and tumor-specific immune responses. Liminatus is also committed to responsible innovation in capital strategy to support its long-term scientific and operational objectives. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding management's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words 'anticipate,' 'believe,' 'continue,' 'could,' 'estimate,' 'expect,' 'intends,' 'may,' 'might,' 'plan,' 'possible,' 'potential,' 'predict,' 'project,' 'should,' 'will,' 'would' and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on our current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects. Future developments affecting Liminatus may not be those that Liminatus has anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond the control of Liminatus), or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Liminatus undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. In addition, statements that 'we believe' and similar statements reflect beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to Liminatus as of the date of this press release, and while Liminatus believes such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and such statements should not be read to indicate that Liminatus has conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain, and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements as predictions of future results. Liminatus's actual future results may be materially different from what it expects. Liminatus qualifies all forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Zilbershlag, Israel embrace challenge at U18 Euros
MAYA ZILBERSHLAG and the Israel Under-18 Women's National Team have high hopes despite a tough group at the European Championship in La Palma, Spain (photo credit: YEHUDA HALICKMAN) She's not just playing the game – she's chasing greatness. The Israel Under-18 Women's National Team opened its European Championship campaign on Saturday in La Palma, Spain, as coach Shira HaElion's squad looks to make a successful run in the annual event. Advertisement However, it won't be easy for the young blue-and-white, as it is in a group with one of the strongest teams in the competition – France – along with Serbia and Montenegro in Group A play. The blue-and-white opened on Saturday with a 78-53 loss to France and took on Montenegro on Sunday. HaElion does have a number of promising up-and-coming players, including Maya Zilbershlag, who has been listed on FIBA's website as one of the '10 Players to Watch' and led Israel with 16 points in the loss to France. Just ahead of the tournament, the team's star guard spoke to The Jerusalem Post about a number of topics, including the team's goals for the competition. 'From a team perspective, to go as far as possible,' Zilbershlag began. 'We have to believe in ourselves and that we are very capable of beating any team on a given day and do the best we can. From a personal perspective, I will try to help the team as much as possible and give my all for us to succeed.' Advertisement As for what she's excited about, Zilbershlag explained that it's the opportunity to play with teammates she has been on the court with for many, many years. 'I'm looking forward to playing with many of my teammates, as we have played together for many years – from May Bayko, May Elmaliach, and Lee Teichman to Mika Yanay and Noa Maged – all of them. I'm so excited.' Pushing to be better Zilbershlag began playing basketball at the tender age of three and followed in the footsteps of her brothers. She played professional ball this past season at just 16 years old for Hapoel Kfar Saba. 'It was a challenging season, both as a team and for me personally,' Zilbershlag explained. 'Playing at Kfar Saba helped me a lot to develop and build a different and stronger mentality. Playing with older players also has a positive effect on younger players. Advertisement As for next season, my goals are to continue progressing and see my game develop while playing on a better team where I can get significant minutes and really grow. However, I still haven't signed with a team yet, so we shall see.' Zilbershlag had the opportunity to showcase her skills abroad when she participated in the Exodus Europe Camp, which featured many of the top young talents from around the continent. 'It was a nice experience. It's a totally different world and different from the game in the US. I think it was important that I had the chance to take part in this type of camp and see how others view the game. The game is different, and the people are different. Seeing more players and other players while getting to know them was important and fun at the same time.' High school championships are always great to win – and that's exactly what Zilbershlag did at Rabin Kfar Saba. Advertisement 'The high school championship made history, and I'm really proud of all the girls. I'm proud that we managed to win it as a team that has played together for many years. The one great thing about playing at Rabin was that the school helps with our studies and is also very considerate of our schedules, so it's much easier to integrate the two when the school is very supportive in this matter.' Last year, the Israel Under-16 team had a strong run that earned Zilbershlag rave reviews, including being listed on FIBA's website as one of the '10 Players to Watch' for the upcoming Under-18 European Championship. At last year's event, Zilbershlag averaged a stunning 18.9 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. The FIBA website described her as 'a physically strong and dominant guard. She could be the one to inspire Israel to success and is being touted to soon make a transition to senior action after also shining in the Israeli League.' Zilbershlag also reflected on the Under-16 EuroBasket: Advertisement 'I think it's amazing to see the young women who put us on the map last year and managed to reach such an insane achievement. It was nice to be able to represent the country and really play well as a team. I think anything that can be done to help the team win is especially important to us in this situation.' As for the women's game, the 17-year-old believes it is growing in Israel – but more can certainly be done to help it reach the next level. 'I think it's amazing to see how women's basketball is developing around the world, and I believe that in Israel it's also slowly developing. But we need to give it another push, because it's no less important.' Zilbershlag was short, sweet, and to the point when asked about her ultimate goal: 'Reaching the WNBA.' She's not just playing the game – she's chasing greatness.
The Independent
02-07-2025
- Science
- The Independent
Citizen astronomers see moment star explodes by playing ‘spot the difference'
Citizen scientists have spotted the moment a binary star system exploded after playing 'spot the difference' with images from two telescopes on opposite sides of the planet. The volunteers had joined the Kilonova Seekers project to identify cosmic explosions of neutron stars and black holes colliding in distant galaxies. They managed to identify a cataclysmic variable star, named GOTO0650, which had undergone 'extreme brightening' compared to an image taken just two days before. The results have been published in a paper in the scientific journal Astronomy and Astrophysics. A cataclysmic variable star is a binary star system made up of a white dwarf primary and a secondary star which are so close to each other that the gravity of the white dwarf distorts the second one. For the Kilonova Seekers project, members of the public are asked to compare data from two gravitational-wave optical transient observer (GOTO) telescopes – one in La Palma in the Canary Islands and the other at Australia's Siding Spring Observatory. More than 3,500 people take part in the project from countries around the world. Professor Laura Nuttall, from the University of Portsmouth, said: 'I'm really proud of everything Kilonova Seekers is achieving. 'We're engaging with people in just about every time zone, and thanks to their enthusiasm for the project, they are making discoveries and contributing to furthering our understanding of astrophysics.' Dr Lisa Kelsey, from the University of Cambridge, said: 'Citizen science is a powerful way to make novel serendipitous discoveries in vast datasets that would normally need to be analysed in depth by scientists. 'With over 2.8 million classifications so far, the discovery of GOTO0650 is really the pinnacle of two years of consistent hard work from our volunteers. 'Without the Kilonova Seekers volunteers flagging this object, rapid follow-up would not have been possible, and this object may have been missed entirely.' Co-lead of Kilonova Seekers, Dr Tom Killestein, at the University of Warwick, said: 'Kilonova Seekers is a unique opportunity for members of the public to take part in true real-time astrophysics. 'Remarkably, public volunteers identified this star as an object of interest within three and a half hours of the image being taken by the GOTO telescopes – this discovery could have been missed among many other objects without their efforts.' Volunteer Cledison Marcos da Silva said: 'This discovery was very important to me, as I was going through a serious health problem and the citizen science we do at Kilonova Seekers was distracting me from my situation. 'I never imagined that we would discover such a bright transient, so it was a huge surprise, and we were very happy when we found out. 'This discovery shows the importance of citizen science, both scientifically and personally. Even from your bed, or on the street with your cell phone, there is the possibility of making a very important discovery.' Another participant Mayahuel Torres-Guerrero said: 'It was very exciting when GOTO0650 produced an echo outburst on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. It was a great journey for someone who has studied social sciences like me.'
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Manchester Airport to offer direct flights to 'best-kept secret' spot in 2026
and Jet2holidays have announced the launch of new flights and breaks from Manchester Airport in 2026. The companies are now offering services to La Palma from Manchester Airport next summer. As part of the expansion, the same destination will be offered from London Stansted, starting in winter 2026/2027. The new flying programme means two weekly services (Monday and Friday) will be on sale year-round from Manchester Airport to La Palma, starting from April 3, 2026. AVIAREPS describes La Palma as the Canary Islands' 'best-kept secret', sharing what visitors can expect on their next trip. It said: 'La Palma, known as 'La Isla Bonita', the beautiful island, is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve with 19 protected natural spots offering a memorable getaway with an adventurous twist. 'Holidaymakers can wander luscious woodlands paired with breathtaking sea views and follow this by enjoying a spot of stargazing under twinkling skies. 'Sleepy seaside villages and resorts like Los Cancajos and Puerto Naos offer black-sand beaches and peaceful promenades, while the capital Santa Cruz charms with its cobbled streets and colonial-style buildings. 'At the heart of the island, the volcanic landscape promises epic hikes and postcard-perfect panoramas. Holidaymakers will be able to book excursions too, to make their holiday extra special and see all the wonderful sights the island has to offer.' Raquel Rebollo, Minister of Tourism of the Cabildo of La Palma, said: 'The UK market is one of our priorities to open and attract to La Palma and we are delighted to have achieved this, thanks to great collaboration and hard work with Jet2 and other partners. 'One of the main goals of this administration is to open new doors and tap into new markets, such as the UK, and this announcement just shows how much potential there is to grow tourism on our island.' She added: 'The UK market is one of our priorities to open and attract to La Palma, which emphasises the importance of incorporating these new direct flight routes to the island. This will gain a niche of visitors that was a priority to give a direct access to La Palma. 'One of the main objectives we have pursued since the beginning of our mandate," Rebollo said, "is to broaden our horizons and enter new markets, such as the British market, which has a great potential for development and growth on our island.' Steve Heapy, CEO of and Jet2holidays, said: 'The launch of La Palma gives holidaymakers and independent travel agents the chance to enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer. 'We are delighted to be expanding our presence across the Canary Islands from London Stansted and Manchester Airports by adding this brand-new gateway to our portfolio, appealing to holidaymakers looking to explore the island's natural beauty. 'Offering customers and independent travel agents even more choice, we are also pleased to be adding a selection of hotels across scenic resorts, available to book now.' Manchester Airport is undergoing a huge transformation, with millions of pounds being used to make changes in the terminals. Recommended reading: Manchester Airport announces new transformation project for Terminal 3 Cheap last-minute summer holiday spots you can fly to from Manchester Airport Manchester Airport parking guide - find your best option for long and short stays Terminal 3 is among those seeing changes with the project set to remodel the terminal's entrance, security hall and departure lounge, giving passengers more space. It will also make way for new retailers and update the look and feel of the building. The Northern hub launched its ambitious transformation programme in 2015. It involves doubling the size of Terminal 2 and closing Terminal 1 – but now the airport has set out how it plans to use some of the space in Terminal 1 after it closes to expand the adjoining Terminal 3.
