University of Rochester physicist Ranga Dias was terminated after a year-long investigation into data reliability concerns in several retracted papers he authored, despite denying any wrongdoing.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

SpaceX's sixth Starship launch will attempt a brief engine relight in space. This test, previously aborted due to roll control issues, is crucial for future Starship missions to achieve stable orbits and return to Earth.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

Niantic plans to create an AI model for navigating the physical world using data collected from Pokémon Go players and Scaniverse app users.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

In a two-hour YouTube documentary, Valve developers discuss the history of Half-Life 2 and reveal footage from the abandoned Episode 3. The episode featured a new ice gun that allowed players to freeze enemies, create cover, and climb walls.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

The International Space Station has been experiencing small but persistent air leaks in its Russian Zvezda service module for 5 years. US and Russian officials disagree on the cause and severity of the issue.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

Ben Affleck believes AI models will transform visual effects in filmmaking but won't replace creative filmmaking. He thinks current AI models are imitators and conceptual translators, better at translating styles than originating creative material.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Brendan Carr as the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Carr is a longtime opponent of net neutrality rules and wants to deregulate telecom companies, but regulate Big Tech and social media firms.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

A Pennsylvania private school closed after an AI-generated explicit photo scandal. A student created deepfakes of around 50 female classmates, and the head of the school was accused of not reporting it promptly after being informed in November 2023. Parents threatened legal action, leading to the school leaders' resignation or potential criminal penalties.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

SpaceX's Starship rocket is expected to reach a tipping point, moving from experimental to operational missions, with a goal of 400 launches in the next four years.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/

SilverStone, a PC case-maker, initially posted an April Fools' joke about releasing a beige PC case, but due to positive reactions, they have decided to release it in early 2025 in Japan for $130.

Source: https://arstechnica.com/author/benjedwards/