From the Editors: UAE space plans get a big boost from astronaut hopefuls

HEARTENING NUMBERS: The huge number of applications — 4,305 — received by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre for the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme should come as no surprise, given that the country’s space programme has taken off in a big way. The number is a seven per cent increase from the first batch. Two of the 61 candidates who have been shortlisted from all these applications will join the Nasa Astronaut Candidate Class of 2021 and train in the US. The manner in which the entire selection process has been undertaken is also noteworthy. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

A POTENTIAL DISASTER AVERTED IN IRAN: A UN watchdog report has indicated Iran has moved advanced centrifuges from an above-ground plant at a uranium enrichment site to an underground one. This is a breach of the 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, which the Trump administration ditched. So serious, it seems, is the latest Iranian move on the nuclear issue that last week US President Donald Trump asked his staff for options on attacking Iran’s main nuclear site. This potential disaster was averted after Trump held off. But it goes to show just how devastating the consequences of Tehran’s nuclear programme can be for Iran and the region. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

A COVID-19 VACCINE FOR ALL: The news of another vaccine in a late-stage trial showing that it is nearly 95 per cent effective in fighting the coronavirus has brought renewed hope. But a statement from US President-elect Joe Biden that more people could die if President Donald Trump and his administration refused to coordinate on the pandemic showed just how things could go wrong if we do not help each other. Producing a vaccine is one thing, transporting it to those in need and ensuring that everyone has access to it is another. Only when COVID-19 vaccines are available to priority populations in all countries around the world can the pandemic be brought under control, which is why “no one is safe until everyone is safe”. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

KARACHI, LAHORE TO CLASH IN PAKISTAN SUPER LEAGUE FINAL TODAY: Karachi Kings skipper Imad Wasim said sticking to the basics in batting and bowling will be a key to their success as they take on Lahore Qalandars in a marquee Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 final in Karachi today. The Kings, helped by a stunning bowling performance of Mohammad Amir in the Super Over, held their nerves to book a place in the final. Lahore, on the other hand, sealed a berth for the final with a convincing 25-run win over Multan Sultans in Eliminator 2. It’s the first time these two teams are clashing for the title. [COMMENT BY: Gautam Bhattacharyya, Senior Associate Editor]

A TIP FOR HAPPINESS: Hollywood actor Donnie Wahlberg’s generosity has struck again! He recently left a $2,020 (Dh7,419.8) tip at a restaurant, continuing his habit of leaving generous gratuities to brighten the days of wait staff. It’s such a positive gesture amid such dreary times. So many people have been financially hit by the pandemic, and so showing a little extra appreciation for service staff such as those in restaurants, cinemas and food deliveries is always welcome. Whether it’s through a Dh5 tip, or a Dh500 tip, making someone’s day is a priceless feeling. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor — Features]