Latest news with #MARVEL
Forbes
6 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
DOE Wooing U.S. Firms To Create Nuclear Fuel Production Lines
A look inside the fuel element storage pool in a German nuclear power plant. w The U.S. government has launched an experiment for domestic companies to create and operate commercial nuclear fuel production lines to feed at least three new reactors by next year. The U.S. Department of Energy is calling its new effort to create a private-industry nuclear fuel supply chain the 'Fuel Line Pilot Program.' The new effort was announced July 15 by Energy Secretary Chris Wright. 'America has the resources and the expertise to lead the world in nuclear energy development, but we need secure domestic supply chains to fuel this rapidly growing energy source and achieve a true nuclear energy renaissance,' Wright noted in a press statement. 'The Trump Administration is accelerating innovation, not regulation, and leveraging partnerships with the private sector to safely fuel and test new reactor designs that will unleash more reliable and affordable energy for American consumers.' DOE's invitation to interested U.S. companies took the official form of a 'Request for Application' in the fuel line pilot project. Qualified U.S. companies have until Aug. 15 to submit initial applications to the DOE's contracting office in Idaho. Also located there in Idaho Falls is the DOE's Idaho National Laboratory where experiments are taking place to develop a microreactor in a project called MARVEL that stands for 'Microreactor Applications Research Validation.' Rendering of MARVEL Microreactor. The nuclear fuel line project objective is for companies to product commercial fuel for nuclear reactors using the DOE's authorization process that would provide federal oversight. The pilot project will assist the federal government with research and development as well as a demonstrate what can be achieved. 'Applicants will be responsible for all costs associated with the construction, operation, and decommissioning of an advanced nuclear fuel line, as well as the procurement of all nuclear material feedstock,' DOE noted. Once successful, this nuclear fuel made in the U.S. would 'help end America's reliance on foreign sources of enriched uranium and critical materials, while opening the door for private sector investment in America's nuclear renaissance,' according to the DOE. The DOE's application request specifies that an acceptable advanced nuclear fuel line must have: 'The value proposition for applicants is twofold: DOE authorization will (1) unlock the next level of private funding; and (2) provide a fast track to an NRC license, and hence, commercialization for authorized fuel fabrication lines,' states the DOE's 14-page application request. The nuclear fuel supply chain project was launched to support another recent DOE initiative to spur commercialization of new reactors. In June, Wright announced a new pilot program to accelerate the testing of advanced reactor designs. These operations would be authorized by DOE in locations outside the confines of DOE national laboratories (where current experiments are taking place in sites operating under U.S. government top secret protocols). The DOE is currently reviewing applications from qualified U.S. reactor companies. The agency intends to select at least three advanced reactor designs having 'a reasonable chance to operate' and achieve criticality by next July 4, noted a June 18 announcement for the 'DOE Pilot Reactor Program.' The federal government has embarked on a series of actions to revive nuclear power and expand its role in private industry, while also pushing to develop and deploy energy-hungry AI applications throughout the nation.
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Does Fantastic Four First Steps have a post-credits scene
The latest Marvel movie is finally arriving in cinemas and it is expected to be a significant entry in the franchise. This is despite the fact studio heads including Kevin Feige having dubbed it as their first standalone movie. That might mean that audiences can be comfortable in going to see the release without needing to have seen one of the many films or television spin-offs released beforehand. However, that doesn't mean that there won't be any meaningful connections to the overall franchise. It is also the first time these characters will be seen on the big screen since the rights reverted back from Fox to Disney and Marvel. According to the movie's synopsis, the film is set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world. It is a different version of Earth from any of the previous movies. Fans will need to stay in their seats (Image: MARVEL) Audiences will be introduced to Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn and Ebon Moss-Bachrach's versions of Marvel's First Family. Otherwise known as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ben Grimm/The Thing. Together they are known as the Fantastic Four and they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner. If Galactus' plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it wasn't bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal for the heroes. Sue Storm has a significant meeting in one of the scenes (Image: MARVEL) Fans will want to remain in their seats even after the film appears to have finished and before the lights come back on. That is because not only is there a post-credits scene but there is also a mid-credits scene. We will not spoil everything that happens in the scenes however, reports suggest that it will have huge ramifications for upcoming titles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is no surprise at all considering that one of these scenes was directed by Joe and Anthony Russo. The pair directed films including Avengers Infinity War, Endgame and are set to return with Doomsday. There is also a post-credits scene right at the end of the movie. Similarly to more recent comic book movie releases, this scene is a more light hearted and fun add-on to the film rather than including any major reveals. The new Fantastic Four has already earned an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. At the time of writing it does not yet have a fan score, with the general public only just being able to go see the film for themselves. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is in cinemas now.
Indian Express
13-07-2025
- Indian Express
Maharashtra deploys AI-powered MARVEL system for wildlife tracking and surveillance system
In a significant step towards reducing human-wildlife conflict in Maharashtra, the government-led initiative MARVEL (Maharashtra Research and Vigilance for Enhanced Law Enforcement) has signed an MoU with the state forest department. The technology to be developed under this project is being adapted to forest-edge zones near tiger reserves like Tadoba, Nawegaon-Nagzira and Pench, as well as proposed areas like Ramtek, Deolapar, Parashivni, and Pauni. MARVEL was initially developed for law enforcement surveillance and is harnessing its AI-driven capabilities in governance-related interventions. In the case of the forest department, the project aims to detect and deter wildlife from entering villages, ensuring both human safety and animal conservation using AI capabilities. The system deploys smart camera poles equipped with AI modules near forest boundaries. These function as 'virtual walls,' automatically detecting approaching animals and triggering gentle deterrents, such as lights and sounds, to nudge them back into the forest. This soft, non-intrusive method is proving to be a practical solution to mitigate conflict without harming the animals. To address the large number of innocent lives being lost to man-animal conflict, a special Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Saturday, in Nagpur, with MARVEL for remedial measures. The agreement was exchanged in the presence of Revenue Minister and Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Minister of State for Finance Ashish Jaiswal, CEO MARVEL, and district superintendent of police (rural) Dr Harssha Poddar, and senior officials of the Tiger Projects. MARVEL was established with the foresight of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to effectively use artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce accidents and crime. Under this MoU, a total of 3,150 AI-based cameras will be installed along the borders of villages surrounding the tiger projects. Sirens will be set up in densely populated areas of the villages and connected wirelessly to these cameras. The cameras will have technology to independently identify tigers and leopards using a combination of visual, thermal, and acoustic data. As soon as a tiger or leopard is captured by a camera, the connected sirens in the village will alert the villagers. As per the agreement, 875 cameras and sirens will be connected in the Pench Tiger Project, 525 in the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, where 140 pre-installed cameras will be upgraded with audio modules, 600 in the Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve, and 1,145 units in the Nagpur Forest Division (Territorial), said Dr Harssha Poddar. The camera systems are equipped with high-resolution sensors, night vision, and built-in microphones. They primarily use edge-based AI model inference for real-time detection, reducing latency and dependency on network connectivity, with cloud support for analytics, archival, and remote management. For better detection level alerts, we prefer to use a cloud or server, said MARVEL officials. Real-time alerts are sent through multiple channels, including SMS, mobile apps, Telegram, and local hooters. These alerts are available in regional languages and typically reach stakeholders within seconds, due to the system's sub-second processing capability. Pilot deployments near Tadoba have already shown positive outcomes, informed the officials. Human-wildlife interactions have decreased, and no fatal incidents have been reported in the areas covered since MARVEL's implementation. Comprehensive training modules, field workshops, and remote support have been planned to ensure local staff are skilled in operating, maintaining, and expanding the AI systems. The expansion roadmap follows a modular strategy, with each deployment phase lasting approximately 24 weeks. Initial efforts in this project focus on high-risk buffer villages, with further scale-up planned in a phase-wise manner over the next 12-18 months, depending on the outcomes. Looking ahead, MARVEL aims to enhance its capabilities further with drone surveillance, AI-driven path prediction, and deeper analytics. Thermal imaging is already a core component, and future integrations will be pursued through partnerships with technology providers and stakeholders. The initiative is backed by a strong collaborative framework in the form of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). MARVEL operates under the Government of Maharashtra, in partnership with IIM Nagpur for academic and policy collaboration, and with Pinaca Technologies as the technical implementation partner.
Sustainability Times
25-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'America's First Nuclear Reactor in 50 Years': This Ultra-Compact Power Source Will Deliver Electricity Where No Grid Can Reach
IN A NUTSHELL 🔬 MARVEL is an advanced test reactor designed to promote the development and testing of microreactor technologies at the Idaho National Laboratory. is an advanced test reactor designed to promote the development and testing of microreactor technologies at the Idaho National Laboratory. 🚀 The project is divided into three strategic phases, focusing on design finalization, operational testing, and decommissioning over a two-year period. 🤝 INL invites private-sector collaboration to leverage MARVEL's capabilities for maturing novel nuclear technologies and demonstrating innovative use cases. 🌟 As the first new reactor at INL in over forty years, MARVEL represents a significant milestone in U.S. nuclear energy development. In an era where the demand for clean and sustainable energy is ever-increasing, innovative solutions are paramount. The Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project is poised to revolutionize nuclear energy development in the United States. Managed by the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for the Department of Energy (DOE), this groundbreaking initiative introduces an advanced test reactor that could pave the way for future microreactor technologies. As the first new reactor constructed at the INL site in over forty years, MARVEL stands as a beacon of progress and innovation in the realm of nuclear energy research. The Role of MARVEL in Advancing Nuclear Energy The MARVEL project is a significant leap forward in nuclear energy research and development. Designed as a sodium-potassium (NaK)–cooled test reactor, MARVEL serves as a physical test bed at INL's Transient Reactor Test Facility (TREAT). Its primary goal is to facilitate integrated testing of nuclear reactor components, autonomous controls, microgrid interfaces, and process heat applications in a real nuclear environment. This initiative not only supports the DOE's advanced microreactor research but also acts as a catalyst for private-sector nuclear energy development. The compact core of MARVEL consists of 36 uranium hydride fuel rods, each containing five fuel meats enriched to 19.75% U-235. These rods are moderated by hydrogen and surrounded by a beryllium neutron reflector, leveraging existing technology and off-the-shelf components for expedited construction. The use of high-assay, low-enriched uranium from existing research materials ensures the project's feasibility and efficiency. By providing a platform for testing and demonstrating advanced nuclear technologies, MARVEL is set to transform the landscape of nuclear energy research. 'Space Needs Nuclear Now': This New Global Race to Harness Atomic Power Beyond Earth Is Accelerating Faster Than Expected Phased Operation and Strategic Implementation MARVEL's operation is meticulously divided into three strategic phases over a two-year period. Currently in its first phase, the project focuses on finalizing design, acquiring environmental permits, fabricating components, and conducting safety preparations. This phase is expected to culminate in fuel loading and initial criticality at the TREAT facility by late 2027 or early 2028. The progression of these phases underscores the project's commitment to rigorous testing and validation of nuclear technologies. Upon completion of the first phase, MARVEL will transition into its second phase, which emphasizes testing power production systems and supporting industrial demonstrations under real operating conditions. This phase invites industrial end users to design and fabricate the equipment and processes they wish to demonstrate. Given the project's short duration, potential stakeholders are encouraged to prepare in advance to maximize the opportunity for technological advancement. The final phase focuses on decommissioning activities, providing invaluable opportunities for post-irradiation examination and end-of-life research. 'Bury Them Deep': Nuclear Reactors Planted One Kilometer Underground Could Deliver Cheap and Ultra-Safe Energy for Decades MARVEL as a Catalyst for Microreactor Development INL positions MARVEL as a pivotal development tool for advancing microreactor technologies. The project aims to provide a comprehensive platform that the private sector can leverage to mature novel nuclear technologies and demonstrate innovative new use cases for microreactors. With an 85-kWth reactor capacity, MARVEL will produce over 10 kWe of electricity in its initial operational stage. As operations progress, the reactor will offer process heat above 572°F to end-users for demonstration purposes, showcasing its versatility and potential applications in various industries. Since its establishment in 1949, INL has constructed 52 reactors, with MARVEL marking the first new build in over four decades. This milestone represents a new era in U.S. nuclear development, reflecting the nation's commitment to pioneering sustainable and efficient energy solutions. By fostering innovation and collaboration between public and private sectors, MARVEL is set to drive significant advancements in nuclear technology. 'FBI at the Door': A 12-Year-Old's Bedroom Science Experiment Triggers Federal Response and Alarms National Security Experts Looking Ahead: The Future of Nuclear Innovation As the MARVEL project progresses, its impact on the future of nuclear energy cannot be overstated. The DOE's invitation to private-sector nuclear developers to participate in experiments and demonstrations at MARVEL underscores the project's collaborative nature and its potential to catalyze groundbreaking advancements in microreactor technologies. By harnessing the capabilities of MARVEL, stakeholders can explore new frontiers in nuclear energy, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future. The project's success will hinge on the continuous engagement of industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers who share a common vision for innovative energy solutions. As we look to the future, one question remains: How will the advancements made possible by MARVEL reshape the global energy landscape and address the pressing challenges of our time? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (28)
Scottish Sun
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Marvel star and Brit actress wife reveal they are expecting their second child
The pair welcomed their first baby in October 2022 pregnancy reveal Marvel star and Brit actress wife reveal they are expecting their second child Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MARVEL star Tom Hiddleston and his Fresh Meat actress wife Zawe Ashton are expecting their second child. Zawe, 40, confirmed the news in an interview with British Vogue. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 1 Tom Hiddlestone and Zawe Ashton, pictured last night, are expecting their second child Credit: Splash She showed off her bump as she posed in a series of gowns by designer Emilia Wickstead, who dressed her for the closing of the SXSW festival in London last night. 'I feel like I'll be very held on an evening where, as an expectant mother, you can feel a little bit exposed,' Zawe told Vogue ahead of the event. She then took to the red carpet wearing the blue number, which was casually draped around her growing bump. Zawe was joined by Loki star Tom, who held her hand and looked sharp in a grey suit. read more on Tom and Zawe secret arrival Tom Hiddleston welcomes first baby with Zawe Ashton after engagement The couple welcomed their first child in October 2022.
