The Army Chiefs of India and the US have underscored the importance of partnerships between the two forces to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, both the general stressed that ties between the two armies are growing strong.

Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs' meet: Delegates from 30 nations participate in meet

Russian and Chinese warships are conducting joint maritime patrols in the Pacific Ocean.

Russia-China conduct joint maritime patrols in Pacific Ocean

Sea levels in the south-west Pacific are rising faster than the global average; WMO warns nearby islands to evacuate

Climate change impacts increase in south-west Pacific

As China strives to increase its influence in the Pacific, New Zealand announced it will invest in a "combat-capable" military force and defend its interests there.

New Zealand to boost defence expenditure to protect interests in Pacific

In this segment of the global market roundup, a market wrap of Asia Pacific markets is trading mixed as rising bond yields continue to put pressure on equities in the wake of the US credit downgrade.

Oil markets set for sixth week of gains

New Zealand is boosting its defence capabilities in a bid to protect its interests in the Pacific as China seeks to assert more influence in the region. Releasing policy documents in Wellington that set out the government's new defence schools and strategies Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and Defence Minister Andrew Little said that New Zealand is facing more geostrategic challenges than it has in decades.

New Zealand to boost its defence and security

Beijing in Washington sees each other as a bit of a threat in the Pacific. The Pentagon appears to be working to increase the range of its frontline ammunition. Both are the largest naval presence in the world so this certainly means that more preparations will be needed for the Americans to take on China in case hostilities break out.

China views the US as a threat in the Pacific

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned against 'new imperialism' in the Pacific during a landmark first visit to the region. He denounced actions by big powers saying they threaten the sovereignty of smaller states. China, the United States, Australia and several other nations have strategic and geopolitical interests in the region.

Macron denounces 'new imperialism' in the Pacific

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday criticised the spread of "new imperialism" in the Pacific while he was on his landmark visit to the region on Thursday (July 27), as he issued a warning of a threat to the smaller states' sovereignty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is in the Indo-Pacific and particularly in Oceania new imperialism appearing, and a power logic that is threatening the sovereignty of several states -- the smallest, often the most fragile," he stated&nbsp;in the island state of Vanuatu.</p>

<p>Macron&nbsp;embarked on his first-ever visit by a sitting French leader to an independent Pacific state, aimed at underscoring the importance of France in a region over which the United States and China are competing for diplomatic, military and economic influence.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rafale-jet-sales-boosted-by-india-deal-propels-frances-arms-exports-to-record-high-619718">Rafale jet sales make France's arms exports soar to&nbsp;record&nbsp;high</a></p>

<p>"Our Indo-Pacific strategy is above all to defend through partnerships the independence and sovereignty of all states in the region that are ready to work with us," Macron stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 1.6 million citizens of France live in the Asia-Pacific across seven overseas territories which include New Caledonia and French Polynesia, as well as an exclusive economic zone which is spread over nine million square kilometres (3.5 million square miles).</p>

<p>At a time when the United States and its allies seek to counter the growing sway of China in the region, an "alternative" is being offered by France, said a presidential advisor, with plans of increasing aid and development to tackle natural catastrophes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Macron relaunches Indo-Pacific approach</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Macron relaunched the Indo-Pacific approach of France in the aftermath of a bitter row that took place after a submarine contract with Australia was cancelled, making France a balancing power in the region which remains dominated by the tussle between the US and China.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;France President Macron on 5-day visit to New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The French president has been on a five-day visit to the region which included a stopover in New Caledonia and will continue in Papua New Guinea. For the first time, a French president travelled to independent nations in the Pacific region and didn't&nbsp;just visit the French overseas territories. France enjoys sovereignty over three territories in the Pacific which includes French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna.</p>

<p>In a third referendum, New Caledonians rejected independence on the subject in December 2021, even though&nbsp;pro-independence movements, which were supported by the indigenous Kanak population, boycotted the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday criticised the spread of "new imperialism" in the Pacific while he was on his landmark visit to the region on Thursday (July 27), as he issued a warning of a threat to the smaller states' sovereignty.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday criticised the spread of "new imperialism" in the Pacific while he was on his landmark visit to the region on Thursday (July 27), as he issued a warning of a threat to the smaller states' sovereignty. "There is in the Indo-Pacific and particularly in Oceania new imperialism appearing, and a power logic that is threatening the sovereignty of several states -- the smallest, often the most fragile," he stated in the island state of Vanuatu. Macron embarked on his first-ever visit by a sitting French leader to an independent Pacific state, aimed at underscoring the importance of France in a region over which the United States and China are competing for diplomatic, military and economic influence. ALSO READ | Rafale jet sales make France's arms exports soar to record high "Our Indo-Pacific strategy is above all to defend through partnerships the independence and sovereignty of all states in the region that are ready to work with us," Macron stated. Around 1.6 million citizens of France live in the Asia-Pacific across seven overseas territories which include New Caledonia and French Polynesia, as well as an exclusive economic zone which is spread over nine million square kilometres (3.5 million square miles). At a time when the United States and its allies seek to counter the growing sway of China in the region, an "alternative" is being offered by France, said a presidential advisor, with plans of increasing aid and development to tackle natural catastrophes. Macron relaunches Indo-Pacific approach Last year, Macron relaunched the Indo-Pacific approach of France in the aftermath of a bitter row that took place after a submarine contract with Australia was cancelled, making France a balancing power in the region which remains dominated by the tussle between the US and China. WATCH | France President Macron on 5-day visit to New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea | World News | WION The French president has been on a five-day visit to the region which included a stopover in New Caledonia and will continue in Papua New Guinea. For the first time, a French president travelled to independent nations in the Pacific region and didn't just visit the French overseas territories. France enjoys sovereignty over three territories in the Pacific which includes French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and Wallis and Futuna. In a third referendum, New Caledonians rejected independence on the subject in December 2021, even though pro-independence movements, which were supported by the indigenous Kanak population, boycotted the vote. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French President Macron criticises 'new imperialism' in Pacific

<p>As per Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, as Moscow steps up its military presence in the Pacific, Russia plans to move its newest nuclear submarine to a permanent base in the Kamchatka Peninsula in August this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Citing a source close to the military department, TASS stated that “the submarine Generalissimo Suvorov will make an inter-naval transition from the Northern Fleet (in the Arctic) to the Pacific Fleet in August”. &nbsp;TASS further added that “the transition will be carried out along the Northern Sea Route, in a submerged position.”</p>

<h2><strong>The Russian submarine - Generalissimo Suvorov&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The submarine Generalissimo Suvorov, which entered service at the end of 2022, carries up to 16 nuclear-tipped Russian Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles, each of which can carry more than one nuclear warhead.</p>

<p>The Generalissimo Suvorov was among several new vessels commissioned by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2022 after he promised to further strengthen the country’s navy. At that time, Russian news agencies reported that the commissioning of Generalissimo Suvorov was meant to bolster the nuclear-powered fleet at the Rybachiy submarine base on the Kamchatka Peninsula.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-affects-russian-energy-giant-gazproms-profits-net-profit-down-by-414-in-2022-595729">Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Replacement of Russia’s ballistic missile submarines</strong></h2>

<p>As per reports from Russian agencies, the Generalissimo Suvorov submarine is the sixth vessel of the Russian Borei class of smaller and stealthier submarines. These submarines are likely to replace Russia’s previous generation&nbsp;of ballistic missile submarines.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Kalibr missiles’</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this year, Russia had plans to equip several Navy vessels with Kalibr missiles. With the use of these Kalibr missiles, submarines will not only be able to hit land and sea targets but also submarines.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US journalist detained in Russia for espionage | Russia intercepts US jets</strong></p>

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<p>The Kalibr missile family is made up of several variants, including long–range cruise missiles and anti-submarine torpedoes. As per reports, almost all newly built and most upgraded units will be equipped with Kalibr missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin’s plan to expand the Russian navy</strong></h2>

<p>Putin aims to develop further the defence capabilities of Russia. Earlier too, with the commissioning of the Generalissimo Suvorov submarine, Putin pointed out that “we will increase the pace and volume of construction of various ships, equip them with the most modern weapons”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his attempt to ensure the safety and security of Russia, he added that “all in all, everything to reliably ensure Russia’s security, the protection of our national interests in the world ocean”. &nbsp;</p>

<p>(with inputs from agencies)</p>

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As per Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, as Moscow steps up its military presence in the Pacific, Russia plans to move its newest nuclear submarine to a permanent base in the Kamchatka Peninsula in August this year.

As per Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, as Moscow steps up its military presence in the Pacific, Russia plans to move its newest nuclear submarine to a permanent base in the Kamchatka Peninsula in August this year. Citing a source close to the military department, TASS stated that “the submarine Generalissimo Suvorov will make an inter-naval transition from the Northern Fleet (in the Arctic) to the Pacific Fleet in August”. TASS further added that “the transition will be carried out along the Northern Sea Route, in a submerged position.” The Russian submarine - Generalissimo Suvorov The submarine Generalissimo Suvorov, which entered service at the end of 2022, carries up to 16 nuclear-tipped Russian Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles, each of which can carry more than one nuclear warhead. The Generalissimo Suvorov was among several new vessels commissioned by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2022 after he promised to further strengthen the country’s navy. At that time, Russian news agencies reported that the commissioning of Generalissimo Suvorov was meant to bolster the nuclear-powered fleet at the Rybachiy submarine base on the Kamchatka Peninsula. ALSO READ | Ukraine war affects Russian energy giant Gazprom's profits; net profit down by 41.4% in 2022 Replacement of Russia’s ballistic missile submarines As per reports from Russian agencies, the Generalissimo Suvorov submarine is the sixth vessel of the Russian Borei class of smaller and stealthier submarines. These submarines are likely to replace Russia’s previous generation of ballistic missile submarines. ‘Kalibr missiles’ Earlier this year, Russia had plans to equip several Navy vessels with Kalibr missiles. With the use of these Kalibr missiles, submarines will not only be able to hit land and sea targets but also submarines. WATCH | US journalist detained in Russia for espionage | Russia intercepts US jets × The Kalibr missile family is made up of several variants, including long–range cruise missiles and anti-submarine torpedoes. As per reports, almost all newly built and most upgraded units will be equipped with Kalibr missiles. Putin’s plan to expand the Russian navy Putin aims to develop further the defence capabilities of Russia. Earlier too, with the commissioning of the Generalissimo Suvorov submarine, Putin pointed out that “we will increase the pace and volume of construction of various ships, equip them with the most modern weapons”. In his attempt to ensure the safety and security of Russia, he added that “all in all, everything to reliably ensure Russia’s security, the protection of our national interests in the world ocean”. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia's Generalissimo Suvorov to move to a permanent Pacific base in August

<p>United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports.&nbsp;This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the capital Port Moresby on Monday and held a meeting with 14 Pacific Island leaders. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gross-interference-china-summons-japanese-envoy-over-g7-communique-594902">'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique</a></p>

<p>During the signing ceremony, Blinken said, "The defence cooperation was drafted by the United States and Papua New Guinea as equals and sovereign partners."&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this new security agreement, the United States will be able to have more access to military and other facilities in PNG. Blinken on holding a meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape said,&nbsp;"New Zealand is an important partner in the Pacific and around the world. &nbsp;U.S.-NZ partnership is key to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region."</p>

<h2><strong>Biden's cut short Asia trip&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Amid a debt crisis in the United States, President Joe Biden cut short his Asia trip last week to address the impending issue of the US debt ceiling that can potentially push Washington into default. His trip included stops in Port Moresby and Sydney, Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Strategic significance of PNG</strong></h2>

<p>PNG is a key strategic region for the US in the South Pacific and by increasing its reach in the region it can thwart China's growing maritime influence. The Pacific Islands were also the site of key battles during World War Two.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-at-indias-delhi-cinema-67-people-inside-hall-safely-evacuated-594909">Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated</a></p>

<h2><strong>US-PNG defence pact</strong></h2>

<p>PNG in a statement on Saturday termed the defence pact as an opportunity to boost the islands' infrastructure as well as national defense.&nbsp;“Papua New Guinea does not have enemies but it pays to be prepared. Territorial dispute is (imminent), as in the case of Ukraine-Russia,” the statement said.</p>

<p>“This agreement is not about geopolitics but rather recognizes the country’s need to build its defence capabilities because border disputes are inevitable in the future,” it said. It is interesting to note that the statement said DCA does not stop Papua New Guinea from working with other nations including China.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>The DCA is for 15 years and as per the statement it can be terminated if not satisfied with. "It will not have immunity for criminal conduct of visiting USA forces personnel and assets developed under DCA will be owned by PNG Government and for military installation of the PNG Defence Force," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports.

United States and Papua New Guinea have signed a new bilateral defence pact at a time when China is expanding its influence in the Pacific region, as per reports. This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the capital Port Moresby on Monday and held a meeting with 14 Pacific Island leaders. Also Read | 'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique During the signing ceremony, Blinken said, "The defence cooperation was drafted by the United States and Papua New Guinea as equals and sovereign partners." With this new security agreement, the United States will be able to have more access to military and other facilities in PNG. Blinken on holding a meeting with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape said, "New Zealand is an important partner in the Pacific and around the world. U.S.-NZ partnership is key to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region." Biden's cut short Asia trip Amid a debt crisis in the United States, President Joe Biden cut short his Asia trip last week to address the impending issue of the US debt ceiling that can potentially push Washington into default. His trip included stops in Port Moresby and Sydney, Australia. Strategic significance of PNG PNG is a key strategic region for the US in the South Pacific and by increasing its reach in the region it can thwart China's growing maritime influence. The Pacific Islands were also the site of key battles during World War Two. Also Read | Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated US-PNG defence pact PNG in a statement on Saturday termed the defence pact as an opportunity to boost the islands' infrastructure as well as national defense. “Papua New Guinea does not have enemies but it pays to be prepared. Territorial dispute is (imminent), as in the case of Ukraine-Russia,” the statement said. “This agreement is not about geopolitics but rather recognizes the country’s need to build its defence capabilities because border disputes are inevitable in the future,” it said. It is interesting to note that the statement said DCA does not stop Papua New Guinea from working with other nations including China. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine × The DCA is for 15 years and as per the statement it can be terminated if not satisfied with. "It will not have immunity for criminal conduct of visiting USA forces personnel and assets developed under DCA will be owned by PNG Government and for military installation of the PNG Defence Force," it added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US, Papua New Guinea sign defence pact amid China's rising influence in Pacific

The U.S. has been on a mission to militarise the Indo-Pacific region. Claiming power over the Indo-Pacific seems up top on America’s agenda and the Indo Pacific strategy released by the White House says it in as many words, “the U.S. is an Indo-Pacific power.” Is the Indo-Pacific America’s newest market to push its weapons or is this simply a pawn to gain footprint and power in the region while building its own economy?

Is USA prepping Indo-Pacific for war? Will it slash & burn, cut & run, again?

<p>The South Pacific Ocean nation of Vanuatu was struck by small tsunami waves following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in the far Pacific. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves less than 1.5 feet were measured off Lenakel- a port town in the island nation. According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the earthquake was located near the Loyalty Islands, a province in the French territory of New Caledonia. The site is southwest of Fiji, north of New Zealand and east of Australia where the Coral Sea meets the Pacific. The threat of a tsunami has largely passed and alerts regarding the same were lifted in the region.</p>

<p>Vanuatu's National Disaster Management Office advised people to evacuate coastal areas and rush to safety at higher altitudes. The authorities also urged people to listen to radios for updates and further advisories.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Strong currents recorded in several Pacific nations</strong></h2>

<p>Not just Vanuatu, strong and unusual currents were faced by several Pacific nations such as Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea and Guam. New Zealand is also expected to face strong waves in its coastal areas, according to the country’s National Emergency Management Agency.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Pacific Ocean is prone to earthquakes?</strong></h2>

<p>A large part of the Pacific Ocean is a part of the ‘ring of fire’, a term used to describe an area where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. It is a direct result of plate tectonics and the movement and interaction of several tectonic plates.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will the Pacific Ocean witness a mega quake?</strong></p>

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<p>The Pacific Ocean is surrounded by several tectonic plates, including the Pacific Plate, the North American Plate, the Eurasian Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate, and others. The Ring of Fire encompasses the subduction zones, where oceanic plates are forced beneath the continental plates or other oceanic plates during the process of plate convergence. This subduction process leads to the formation of deep ocean trenches and volcanic activity.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-caledonia-tsunami-earthquake-updates-i-what-we-know-so-far-593989">Watch:&nbsp;New Caledonia tsunami, earthquake updates I What we know so far</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition to earthquakes, volcanic activity is also common in the ‘ring of fire’. As the oceanic plate subducts beneath the continental plate, the intense heat and pressure cause the mantle to partially melt, forming magma. This magma rises to the surface, resulting in volcanic eruptions and the formation of volcanic arcs, such as the Andes in South America, the Cascades in North America, and the Japanese archipelago.</p>

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The South Pacific Ocean nation of Vanuatu was struck by small tsunami waves following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in the far Pacific. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves less than 1.

The South Pacific Ocean nation of Vanuatu was struck by small tsunami waves following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in the far Pacific. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves less than 1.5 feet were measured off Lenakel- a port town in the island nation. According to the US Geological Survey, the epicentre of the earthquake was located near the Loyalty Islands, a province in the French territory of New Caledonia. The site is southwest of Fiji, north of New Zealand and east of Australia where the Coral Sea meets the Pacific. The threat of a tsunami has largely passed and alerts regarding the same were lifted in the region. Vanuatu's National Disaster Management Office advised people to evacuate coastal areas and rush to safety at higher altitudes. The authorities also urged people to listen to radios for updates and further advisories. Strong currents recorded in several Pacific nations Not just Vanuatu, strong and unusual currents were faced by several Pacific nations such as Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea and Guam. New Zealand is also expected to face strong waves in its coastal areas, according to the country’s National Emergency Management Agency. Why Pacific Ocean is prone to earthquakes? A large part of the Pacific Ocean is a part of the ‘ring of fire’, a term used to describe an area where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. It is a direct result of plate tectonics and the movement and interaction of several tectonic plates. Watch: Gravitas: Will the Pacific Ocean witness a mega quake? × The Pacific Ocean is surrounded by several tectonic plates, including the Pacific Plate, the North American Plate, the Eurasian Plate, the Philippine Sea Plate, and others. The Ring of Fire encompasses the subduction zones, where oceanic plates are forced beneath the continental plates or other oceanic plates during the process of plate convergence. This subduction process leads to the formation of deep ocean trenches and volcanic activity. Watch: New Caledonia tsunami, earthquake updates I What we know so far In addition to earthquakes, volcanic activity is also common in the ‘ring of fire’. As the oceanic plate subducts beneath the continental plate, the intense heat and pressure cause the mantle to partially melt, forming magma. This magma rises to the surface, resulting in volcanic eruptions and the formation of volcanic arcs, such as the Andes in South America, the Cascades in North America, and the Japanese archipelago. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Vanuatu struck by small tsunami after 7.7 magnitude earthquake in ‘ring of fire’ region

Race between Washington and Beijing will have an impact on the Pacific. Later this month, US President Joe Biden is scheduled to travel to Papua New Guinea. According to the White House, Biden will stop there on his way from the G7 leaders summit in Hiroshima to the QUAD leaders summit in Sydney. He will be the first sitting US president to visit the Pacific nation.

Washington and Beijing race for influence across the Pacific

NATO is reportedly planning to open a liaison office in Tokyo. After Russia, Is NATO now provoking China? Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Why does United States want to open a NATO office in the Pacific?

Economies in Asia and the Pacific are projected to grow 4.8% this year and next year, improving on the 4.2% growth rate in 2022, according to the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) April 2023, released today.

ADB: Developing economies in Asia-Pacific to grow 4.8% in 2023 and 2024

ADB says Asia and Pacific to grow by 4.8% in 2023 & 2024

<p>A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean.</p>

<p>Physicist Avi Loeb announced that an ocean expedition worth $1.5 million to Papua New Guinea is being organised by him in search of fragments of an object which crashed off the coast of the country's Manus Island in 2014.</p>

<p>The object was noticed by Loeb in 2019 and it was identified as the first ever discovered interstellar meteor, which means its origin lies outside our solar system.</p>

<p>As per Loeb, the interstellar origin of the meteor was confirmed to NASA by the Department of Defence’s space command in April 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/aliens-on-distant-exoplanets-scientists-say-terminator-zones-could-harbour-life-573183">Aliens on distant exoplanets? Scientists say ‘terminator zones’ could harbour life</a></p>

<p>Loeb and his team also reached the conclusion that the meteor was tougher compared to all other 272 meteors listed in the Centre for Near Earth Object Studies catalogue of NASA.</p>

<p>“Intrigued by this conclusion, I established a team that designed a two-week expedition to search for the meteor fragments at a depth of 1.7km on the ocean floor. Analysing the composition of the fragments could allow us to determine whether the object is natural or artificial in origin,” wrote Loeb in a post on Medium.</p>

<p>“We have a boat. We have a dream team, including some of the most experienced and qualified professionals in ocean expeditions. We have complete design and manufacturing plans for the required sledge, magnets, collection nets and mass spectrometer,” he further stated.</p>

<p>As per Loeb, there is a possibility that the meteor is tough “because they are artificial in origin…launched a billion years ago from a distant technological civilisation.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Is an alien looking at us from Mars?</strong></p>

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<p>A ship with a magnetic sledge is expected to be used for the ocean expedition. The team will include seven sledge operations along with a scientific team.</p>

<p>“We will tow a sledge mounted with magnets, cameras and lights on the ocean floor inside of a 10km×10km search box. A number of sources have been used to narrow the search site to this relatively small search box,” wrote Loeb and his team.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean.

A Pacific expedition is being planned by a prominent Harvard physicist to find what he believes to be an alien artefact which has fallen from space into the ocean. Physicist Avi Loeb announced that an ocean expedition worth $1.5 million to Papua New Guinea is being organised by him in search of fragments of an object which crashed off the coast of the country's Manus Island in 2014. The object was noticed by Loeb in 2019 and it was identified as the first ever discovered interstellar meteor, which means its origin lies outside our solar system. As per Loeb, the interstellar origin of the meteor was confirmed to NASA by the Department of Defence’s space command in April 2022. ALSO READ | Aliens on distant exoplanets? Scientists say ‘terminator zones’ could harbour life Loeb and his team also reached the conclusion that the meteor was tougher compared to all other 272 meteors listed in the Centre for Near Earth Object Studies catalogue of NASA. “Intrigued by this conclusion, I established a team that designed a two-week expedition to search for the meteor fragments at a depth of 1.7km on the ocean floor. Analysing the composition of the fragments could allow us to determine whether the object is natural or artificial in origin,” wrote Loeb in a post on Medium. “We have a boat. We have a dream team, including some of the most experienced and qualified professionals in ocean expeditions. We have complete design and manufacturing plans for the required sledge, magnets, collection nets and mass spectrometer,” he further stated. As per Loeb, there is a possibility that the meteor is tough “because they are artificial in origin…launched a billion years ago from a distant technological civilisation.” WATCH | Is an alien looking at us from Mars? A ship with a magnetic sledge is expected to be used for the ocean expedition. The team will include seven sledge operations along with a scientific team. “We will tow a sledge mounted with magnets, cameras and lights on the ocean floor inside of a 10km×10km search box. A number of sources have been used to narrow the search site to this relatively small search box,” wrote Loeb and his team. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Harvard physicist in search for ‘alien artefact’ that fell from space

<p>After providing valuable scientific data and serving the science community for more than a decade, the Indo-French satellite 'Megha-Tropiques' (MT-1) now rests in peace at a remote location in the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>Just as they had intended, the Indian space agency, ISRO, successfully de-orbited the satellite (gradually brought the satellite closer to Earth from its orbit) and made it re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.</p>

<p>This process is a brutal one where the re-entering object undergoes sustained exposure to high speeds and temperatures well over 2500 degrees Celsius, thus completely burning it up.</p>

<p>ISRO on Tuesday announced that the re-entry experiment was successfully, adding that they performed two 20-minute firings of the satellites on-board propulsion system.</p>

<p>This firing was done to ensure that the satellite gets pulled further into the influence of Earth's gravity and eventually burns up as it enters the denser layers of the Earth's atmosphere.</p>

<p>"The final perigee (the closest distance the satellite is from the earth) was estimated to be less than 80 km indicating that the satellite would enter the denser layers of the Earth's atmosphere and subsequently undergo structural disintegration. The re-entry aero-thermal flux analysis confirmed that there would be no surviving large debris fragments" ISRO said.</p>

<p>Based on telemetry data, ISRO also confirmed that the satellite re-entered Earth's atmosphere and would have disintegrated, with the final impact somewhere deep in the Pacific Ocean. The entire process of de-orbiting and re-entry was carried out by ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complex process of manoeuvring the satellite, lowering its orbit, facilitating re-entry and burning it up in the upper atmosphere is part of ISRO's effort to reduce space debris.</p>

<p>WION had earlier reported, based on a NASA revelation, that there are more than 47,000 pieces of space debris that are larger than 10cm in size. Had the de-orbiting not been done, MT-1 too could have ended up as a long-term resident in space, without serving any useful purpose.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/100mn-millimeter-sized-space-debris-a-serious-threat-to-astronauts-sats-nasa-chief-scientist-552192">100mn+ millimetre-sized space debris a serious threat to astronauts, says NASA chief scientist</a></p>

<p>While larger pieces of debris such as defunct satellites and rocket upper stages are easier to track, it is the smaller pieces of millimetre-sized debris that pose more of a threat to space assets and space-walking astronauts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-and-why-isro-is-disposing-off-a-defunct-indo-french-satellite-569090/amp">How and why ISRO is disposing off a defunct Indo-French satellite</a></p>

<ul>
</ul>

<p>ISRO has taken up proactive measures to improve the compliance level with the internationally accepted guidelines on space debris mitigation, the Indian Space agency said.&nbsp;Efforts are underway to build indigenous capabilities for tracking and monitoring space objects to safeguard Indian space assets.</p>

<p>ISRO System for Safe and Sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM) has been established to spearhead such activities, ISRO added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'Megha-Tropiques' was an&nbsp;Indo-French Joint Satellite Mission for studying the water cycle and energy exchanges in the tropics. The main objective of this mission is to understand the life cycle of convective systems that influence the tropical weather and climate and their role in associated energy and moisture budget of the atmosphere in tropical regions.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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After providing valuable scientific data and serving the science community for more than a decade, the Indo-French satellite 'Megha-Tropiques' (MT-1) now rests in peace at a remote location in the Pacific Ocean.

After providing valuable scientific data and serving the science community for more than a decade, the Indo-French satellite 'Megha-Tropiques' (MT-1) now rests in peace at a remote location in the Pacific Ocean. Just as they had intended, the Indian space agency, ISRO, successfully de-orbited the satellite (gradually brought the satellite closer to Earth from its orbit) and made it re-enter the Earth's atmosphere. This process is a brutal one where the re-entering object undergoes sustained exposure to high speeds and temperatures well over 2500 degrees Celsius, thus completely burning it up. ISRO on Tuesday announced that the re-entry experiment was successfully, adding that they performed two 20-minute firings of the satellites on-board propulsion system. This firing was done to ensure that the satellite gets pulled further into the influence of Earth's gravity and eventually burns up as it enters the denser layers of the Earth's atmosphere. "The final perigee (the closest distance the satellite is from the earth) was estimated to be less than 80 km indicating that the satellite would enter the denser layers of the Earth's atmosphere and subsequently undergo structural disintegration. The re-entry aero-thermal flux analysis confirmed that there would be no surviving large debris fragments" ISRO said. Based on telemetry data, ISRO also confirmed that the satellite re-entered Earth's atmosphere and would have disintegrated, with the final impact somewhere deep in the Pacific Ocean. The entire process of de-orbiting and re-entry was carried out by ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), Bengaluru. The complex process of manoeuvring the satellite, lowering its orbit, facilitating re-entry and burning it up in the upper atmosphere is part of ISRO's effort to reduce space debris. WION had earlier reported, based on a NASA revelation, that there are more than 47,000 pieces of space debris that are larger than 10cm in size. Had the de-orbiting not been done, MT-1 too could have ended up as a long-term resident in space, without serving any useful purpose. Also read | 100mn+ millimetre-sized space debris a serious threat to astronauts, says NASA chief scientist While larger pieces of debris such as defunct satellites and rocket upper stages are easier to track, it is the smaller pieces of millimetre-sized debris that pose more of a threat to space assets and space-walking astronauts. Also read | How and why ISRO is disposing off a defunct Indo-French satellite ISRO has taken up proactive measures to improve the compliance level with the internationally accepted guidelines on space debris mitigation, the Indian Space agency said. Efforts are underway to build indigenous capabilities for tracking and monitoring space objects to safeguard Indian space assets. ISRO System for Safe and Sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM) has been established to spearhead such activities, ISRO added. 'Megha-Tropiques' was an Indo-French Joint Satellite Mission for studying the water cycle and energy exchanges in the tropics. The main objective of this mission is to understand the life cycle of convective systems that influence the tropical weather and climate and their role in associated energy and moisture budget of the atmosphere in tropical regions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Defunct Indo-French satellite ‘Megha-Tropiques’ now in pieces, laid to rest in Pacific Ocean

China has opened a new shooting front in the Pacific. Chinese vessels recently hit a Filipino coast guard boat with military-grade laser, and Beijing has zero regrets.

Gravitas: Is China preparing for a war in the Pacific? Here's proof.

Ocean and its depths have always been a fascinating topic for us humans. New research has uncovered an amazing opportunity we might have missed. Moohita Kaur Garg tells you all you need to know.

New life forms on rare Pacific island

Beijing's design for Pacific region have taken a huge meaning, Fiji's new government has decided to end the policing agreement with China. In 2011, both countries inked a memorandum of understanding.

Fiji snubs China in Pacific, ends 2011 security pact; to remove Chinese from its police force

According to preliminary data, airlines in the Asia Pacific region flew 13.4 million passengers internationally in November, compared with just 1.8 million in the same month a year earlier.

Asia Pacific Airlines see 500% jump in international demand

Nearly 10 percent of Tonga's fighting force is in Hawaii this month, training side by side with militaries from across the Indo-Pacific region. The tiny kingdom is the only South Pacific island nation participating in the Rim of the Pacific naval exercises just as the region finds itself at the center of competing U.S. and Chinese diplomatic and military efforts. VOA’s Jessica Stone reports from Honolulu, Hawaii.

WION-VOA Co-Production| Tonga takes part in Pacific naval drills

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