Salina Turda: From Salt Mine to Entertainment Center

The Romanian salt mine Salina Turda has been transformed into an underground entertainment center. Salt extraction began in this location as early as the 11th century and ceased in 1932 due to economic non-feasibility, after which the mine was used as warehouses and a bomb shelter. A tourist complex was established there in the 2010s: since then, it features a Ferris wheel, mini-golf, bowling, billiards, table tennis, and boat rentals.

The Most Dangerous Toy in History: Atomic Energy Lab

The most dangerous toy in history is the 'Atomic Energy Lab for Kids' with radioactive Uranium-238. The set was sold in the USA in the 1950s: inside were test tubes with real uranium ore (the authors assured there was no radiation risk if the instructions were followed), a Geiger counter, and other tools for 'exciting experiments'. This item was released due to the lack of strict safety standards for toys at the time, but it failed spectacularly due to radiation fears and a very high selling price.

China builds its Hyperloop project

In China, a Hyperloop project is being developed, where the train will reach speeds up to 1000 km/h. Planned routes include Shanghai–Hangzhou, which would cover 200 km in 9 minutes, and Beijing–Shanghai.

Tourist Breaks Swarovski Crystal 'Van Gogh's Chair'

A tourist broke the 'Van Gogh's Chair' sculpture made of Swarovski crystals at the Palazzo Maffei museum in Verona. It is an interpretation of the chair from Vincent van Gogh's painting 'Bedroom'. Surveillance footage shows that the visitors waited for the staff to leave the room to take photos on Nicola Bolla's exhibit. Fortunately, the sculpture was restored. Information about the extent of damage and holding the tourists accountable has not been disclosed.

Matthew McConaughey and Nic Pizzolatto: Reunited for a Movie

Matthew McConaughey and screenwriter Nic Pizzolatto ('True Detective') are together again - this time for a feature film about private detective Mike Hammer. The new picture will be a reimagining of the classic detective: modern setting, tough style, and, judging by the cast, a lot of characteristic male angst - primarily, of course, from McConaughey.

Micron Halts DDR4 Memory Module Production

Micron is halting the production of DDR4 memory modules. Previously, Samsung and SK Hynix made the same decision. Now, all three giants will produce modern and promising DDR5, LPDDR5, and HBM. Gamers are advised to forget about budget builds as the price of DDR4 has already begun to rise due to the shortage.

Quentin Tarantino Becomes the Highest-Paid Screenwriter in History

Quentin Tarantino has become the highest-paid screenwriter in history. Insider Jeff Sneider discovered that Netflix paid the master $20 million for an unused script. The film, which tells the story of Cliff Booth (a sequel to 'Once Upon a Time in... Hollywood'), was supposed to be the tenth in Tarantino's list, but he decided not to direct it. The film will be directed by David Fincher.

Quentin Tarantino Becomes the Highest-Paid Screenwriter in History

Quentin Tarantino has become the highest-paid screenwriter in history. Insider Jeff Sneider discovered that Netflix paid the master $20 million for an unused script. The film, which tells the story of Cliff Booth (a sequel to 'Once Upon a Time in... Hollywood'), was supposed to be the tenth in Tarantino's list, but he decided not to direct it. The film will be directed by David Fincher.

New 'Blue' Metro Line Under Construction in Dubai

A new 'blue' metro line is being built in Dubai, featuring the world's highest station (74 meters) and a viaduct over the Dubai Creek Bay. Promised are stunning views of the Burj Khalifa, waterfronts, and other attractions directly from the windows of the wagons, with a total length of 30 km and 14 stations in nine districts, including the international airport. The opening is planned for September 2029.

Astronomers Capture First Image of Sun's South Pole

Astronomers have captured the first-ever image of the Sun's south pole. Prior to this, all photos and videos were taken from the equator level, but this time, the Solar Orbiter probe was successfully positioned at a 17-degree angle after performing gravitational maneuvers near Venus. According to scientists, the new data will allow for a better study of the star, and in October, they will also obtain images of the north pole.

The Safest Places on a Plane

The safest places on a plane are now officially at the tail and near the wings. Experts conducted an analysis of aviation incidents and acknowledged that the rear part of the aircraft is the safest. During emergency landings, collisions, or runway overruns, the main impact is on the front part of the plane, while the tail section is less susceptible to damage. Another relatively safe zone is near the wings. The wing is one of the most robust parts of the aircraft structure, and seats located near it receive additional protection. Additionally, emergency exits are typically located in this area, allowing for rapid evacuation if necessary.

New BMW Cars Learn to Turn On Indicators Automatically

The new BMW vehicles are learning to turn on indicators automatically - this feature is already being tested in the prototype of the new iX3. It will work through cameras and sensors inside the cabin: the car will know if you look in the mirror with the intent to change lanes, and it will activate the appropriate indicator. They also promise up to 800 km of range and other AI features (such as automatic braking to avoid hitting pedestrians). Prices and design will be shown at the presentation in September.

New World Record in Truck Reversing

50-year-old driver Marko Hellgrewe set a new world record for reversing a truck. The man spent six hours and 22 minutes behind the wheel, moving only backward at an average speed of 20 km/h. During this time, he covered a distance of 124.7 km and made 476 turns, for which he was officially entered into the Guinness Book of Records.

World's Largest Tetris Game in UAE

The largest Tetris game in the world will be played in the UAE - instead of a field, a 150-meter Dubai Frame will be used and color-changing drones will act as the pieces. The mega-tournament of this iconic puzzle is organized by Red Bull in collaboration with The Tetris Company: The qualifying rounds are held directly on the company's website in online Tetris, and the best players will be invited to the final in December to play with drones. Flight and accommodation expenses are promised to be covered, and the winner will receive $5000.

Norwegian Woman Makes History at the South Pole

Norwegian Karen Killesæ made it into the Guinness World Records as the youngest woman to reach the South Pole alone on skis. At the time of recording the record, she was 21 years and 249 days old. To prepare for such a challenge, Karen had to build muscle mass - typically, polar explorers are taller, heavier, and older than her. The athlete also went on winter hikes and trained regularly. As a result, the athlete managed to cover a distance of 1130 kilometers in less than 54 days.

The International Club of Bores Exists

The International Club of Bores exists. Its membership already numbers several million people – all of whom are proud of their "dullness". Bores from all over the world gather in special online groups to discuss all sorts of dull things. For example, coat hangers, dismantling electronic devices, tire pressure, and so on. In the community, you can't post overly emotional or interesting posts, use exclamation marks, or various emojis. All posts are moderated according to the "standards of dreariness". The organizers even make an annual calendar featuring club members with the dullest hobbies.

Astronomers Record Extreme Cosmic Explosions

Astronomers have recorded some of the most powerful cosmic explosions in the history of science. The powerful cosmic outbursts have been named 'extreme nuclear transitions' (ENT). This is a process in which supermassive black holes tear stars apart. These stars are at least three times heavier than the Sun, leading to a massive release of energy. According to astronomers, the new data will help deepen their knowledge of the distant Universe.

“Trillions of Dollars Await on the Moon”

British scientists have discovered 6500 craters on Earth's satellite that could contain over 30,000 tons of valuable metals. Among them, there is a high concentration of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and more, transported there by asteroids that have been 'bombarding' the surface for billions of years. As the Moon has no atmosphere and no tectonic plates, the metals are not blown away by winds, washed away by rains, or drawn deep under the lunar regolith, but remain lying in the craters.

Parents in Sweden jailed for children's unbrushed teeth

In Sweden, parents were jailed because their children did not brush their teeth. The couple took three children to the dentist - the doctor discovered extensive cavities in the patients and removed several teeth. After the procedure, he reported the situation to the police. As a result, an investigation began, and the unfortunate parents were sentenced to almost a year in prison. The couple denied their guilt, but the judge decided that the parents should be punished.

Swiss Authorities Offer Incentive to Move to Albinen

Swiss authorities will pay you $22,000 to move to the Alpine village of Albinen. It's a picturesque village with breathtaking views of the Alps. Recently, its population has significantly decreased to 250 residents. To revitalize the village, the government is offering an incentive. You can receive $22,000, plus an additional $11,500 for each child that moves with you. If you live there for 10 years, you'll receive a local passport.