In a move that feels like plucking a star from the sky, Microsoft has reportedly birthed a new state of matter—neither solid, liquid, nor gas. This topological cubit, a hybrid of semiconductor and superconductor, could catapult quantum computing into realms once reserved for science fiction. While skeptics argue that practical quantum computers remain decades away, Microsoft’s breakthrough hints at a future where the impossible becomes routine. Imagine solving problems that today’s computers stumble over—like untangling the Gordian knots of climate modeling or drug discovery. The race is on, and Microsoft just sprinted ahead.
Six Plymouth Prowlers, those quirky roadsters from the late '90s, are set to roll onto the auction block. Once dismissed as underpowered oddities, they’ve since become cult classics, adored for their audacious design and retro charm. One of the six boasts fewer than 300 miles on the odometer—a time capsule on wheels. Critics once lambasted the Prowler for its lackluster engine and steep price tag, but time has a way of rewriting history. Today, these cars are celebrated as bold experiments in automotive design, proving that even misfits can find their moment in the sun.
After 15 years of crafting waxed canvas masterpieces, Trakke is closing its doors. Known for their rugged backpacks and messenger bags, the Scottish brand became a beacon for quality and craftsmanship. Over 80,000 bags found homes with 50,000 loyal customers—a testament to their enduring appeal. For those who cherish their Trakke gear, this is a bittersweet farewell. The brand’s legacy will live on in the well-worn straps and patina of its creations, a reminder that even the best things must eventually come to an end.
For those who fret about celestial collisions, this week brought both relief and unease. An asteroid named 2024 YR4, measuring up to 300 feet across, initially had a 3% chance of striking Earth in 2032. While not a planet-killer, it could have leveled a city under the right conditions. Thankfully, updated calculations now peg the odds at a mere 0.16%. The catch? It’s more likely to hit the moon. So, while Earth breathes a sigh of relief, lunar enthusiasts might want to keep an eye on the sky.
The Arctic Circle may be behind us, but True Detective is far from finished. Season 5, helmed by Issa Lopez, will shift its gaze to Jamaica Bay, New York—a stark contrast to the icy isolation of Alaska. Production kicks off soon, with a 2027 release date in sight. Whether you loved or loathed the divisive fourth season, the show’s magnetic pull remains undeniable. After all, who can resist a mystery wrapped in shadows and steeped in atmosphere?
The 1996 Everest disaster continues to haunt climbers and armchair adventurers alike. John Krakauer’s seminal account, Into Thin Air, sparked debates that rage to this day. Who was to blame? What went wrong? A recent Slate article revisits the tragedy, offering fresh perspectives on an event that refuses to fade into history. Krakauer himself has taken to YouTube to defend his narrative, proving that even decades later, the mountain’s shadow looms large.