Technology
NASA astronaut Don Pettit to discuss his seven-month space mission on April 28; check live streaming details, time and how you can participate | – The Times of India
NASA is set to broadcast a live news conference on Monday, April 28, at 2 p.m. EDT, in which astronaut Don Pettit will provide insights into his recent space mission on the International Space Station (ISS). Pettit arrived back on Earth on April 19 and spent 220 days in space during Expeditions 71 and 72. Pettit will give an overview of his experiences, scientific discoveries, and achievements during the conference. The event will be live streamed on NASA’s website, with media and public opportunities to join via phone or social media. A live Q&A will then appear on NASA’s Instagram account.
NASA astronaut Don Pettit to host live conference on his recent space mission
On Monday, April 28, at 2 p.m. EDT, NASA will host a live press conference in Houston at the Johnson Space Center. Astronaut Don Pettit will give engaging descriptions of his recent trip aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during the press conference.
This event will be webcast live online on the NASA website, and the public will have an opportunity to track along. Instructions on how to view the live stream on various digital media will be posted on NASA’s official website.
Don Pettit to host live conference: Media interactions
According to the NASA reports, press reporters who wish to view the news conference in person will need to contact the NASA Johnson newsroom by today, Thursday, April 24, at 5 p.m. EDT. The newsroom may be reached by dialing 281-483-5111 or jsccommu@mail.nasa.gov may be emailed.
In this way, the news conference can have all the media present in person and be organised and safe.
For those unable to attend in person, the conference will be made available remotely as well. U.S. news media participants who wish to participate by phone need to call the newsroom at least two hours before the event begins. To pose questions by phone, news media representatives need to dial in at least 10 minutes before the start of the conference. This openness allows media practitioners to draw on Pettit’s mission and pose pertinent questions regardless of where they are located geographically.
NASA invites public to ask questions
In an attempt to trigger participation throughout the event, NASA is inviting the public to ask questions to astronaut Don Pettit as the event is streamed live. The attendees can do so through social media under the hashtag #AskNASA. The move promotes more interaction with the space community and provides people with a chance to interact with the experts firsthand and learn more about Pettit’s mission and space exploration science.
In addition to the live conference, NASA will also organize a live question-and-answer session with Pettit on the agency’s Instagram account. The post-conference Q&A session will allow for further discussion and an open forum to let the users live Pettit’s experience and the importance of his mission.
Astronaut Don Pettit successfully returned after 220 days
Astronaut Don Pettit returned on April 19 (April 20, local Kazakhstan time) after finishing his mission aboard the ISS. He was joined by Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner. The return was symbolic since it occurred on Pettit’s birthday, which was April 20 and he was also turning 70.
Pettit’s successful space flight, coupled with the celebration of his landmark, is the outstanding record of an experienced astronaut who has spent close to six months working in outer space. For this mission, Pettit flew on Expeditions 71 and 72 as a flight engineer. For this mission, he spent a total of 220 days in space, bringing his career total to 590 days in space on four spaceflights. Pettit is one of the most seasoned astronauts in NASA history with keen interest in the development of space science and technology.
Don Pettit’s notable contributions
During his mission, Pettit and other astronauts completed 3,520 orbits around the Earth, the distance of 93 million miles. The long travel was an indication of the complexity and scale of traveling in space and the continuous utilisation of the ISS towards facilitating global scientific research.
During their venture, Pettit and his crew saw six visiting spacecraft come and seven depart, resupplying the space station with necessary supplies, equipment, and crew exchanges. Exchanges of this nature are crucial in maintaining the station operational and facilitating the research being carried out onboard.
Throughout his stay on the ISS, Don Pettit helped develop some of the most vital technologies and science. Some of his most notable contributions were attempts to advance on-orbit metal 3D printing, a leading-edge technology and one with the potential to have a phenomenal impact on missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond in the future. He also developed water sanitisation technologies to provide astronauts with clean water for long-duration missions. The research has broader implications, such as remote areas on Earth with no access to clean water.
Pettit’s research also included monitoring for the effect of space on biological processes. He cultivated plants under conditions of differing water, which could tell us about supporting life on long-duration spaceflight. Pettit also studied the conduct of fire in microgravity, which has serious safety concerns for any future spaceflight to occur.
These tests are essential to pursue human space travel because they involve addressing the long-duration space home residency challenges directly. Aside from his scientific endeavours, Pettit was also successful in capturing the beauty of space. He snapped more than 670,000 photos during his mission, the majority of which he posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account for all to see. His images provided an amazing glimpse into life aboard the ISS, ranging from breathtaking vistas of the Earth to the day-to-day operations of the space station.
Pettit’s photographs are now a photographic history of his mission, and they enable people to see for themselves the shock and awe of space travel. His commitment to sharing these photographs is evidence of his willingness to open up the imagination of those who will follow him.
Also Read | NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope marks 35 years with a captivating new view of the Sombrero Galaxy’s hat-like structure
iPhone 17 Air will reportedly make its debut this autumn and with it, Apple may be preparing to disrupt its own premium lineup, and possibly by design. This ultra-thin iPhone, a clear replacement for the underwhelming Plus model, has been the subject of persistent leaks. But what’s truly turned heads is a recent Unbox Therapy hands-on with a dummy unit. Tech reviewer Lew Hilsenteger, a seasoned veteran in the gadget world, was unexpectedly floored. “That feels futuristic,” he remarked, conveying genuine surprise despite following the rumours for months.
The moment underscored something essential: seeing (and feeling) is believing. The iPhone 17 Air, by all early impressions, is not just another iteration. It’s something else, perhaps the first visually exciting iPhone since the X.
A Threat to the Pro Line?
Here’s the catch: the iPhone 17 Air likely won’t be Apple’s most expensive phone. That title will still belong to the Pro and Pro Max. But if the Air proves as seductive in hand as it appears in leaks, Apple risks cannibalising its own high-margin flagship line.
Why spend more on the Pro when the Air is thinner, sleeker, and just as capable for most users?
It’s a fair concern. But also, potentially, a calculated one.
Betting on Excitement Over Margins
The truth is, Apple needs a hit, not financially, but culturally. For years now, iPhone design has plateaued. The 15 Pro is a phenomenal device, but it doesn’t feel new. The last time Apple truly reset expectations was in 2017 with the iPhone X. The iPhone 17 Air won’t be quite as revolutionary. But it could deliver something Apple hasn’t achieved in years: buzz. The kind of buzz that fuels lines outside stores, envious stares across cafe tables, and the irresistible need to upgrade.
In short, the Air could reignite passion for the iPhone.
And if it means shaving a few billion off Pro model sales in the short term? Apple may be willing to take the hit—because the long-term gain is loyalty, excitement, and momentum heading into the next big thing (iPhone Fold, anyone?).
Will It Cannibalise Pro Sales?
The Pro line has long justified its price with features like ProMotion, triple lenses, and titanium builds. But if the Air looks and feels fresher, lighter, and more “2025,” casual buyers and even some power users could opt for form over function. The wild card will be pricing and performance. If Apple gives the Air a high-end chip and flagship-level display, all while keeping it competitively priced, the Pro models might feel redundant to all but the most hardcore enthusiasts.
Technology
Best Symphony coolers in 2025 to beat the heat in scorching summer months in dry regions: Top 10 coolers on Amazon
Installing a cooler is a smart and affordable way to stay comfortable during hot summer months, especially in areas with dry climates. Known for their energy efficiency, Symphony coolers consume significantly less electricity compared to air conditioners, helping you save on power bills.
They use the natural process of water evaporation to cool the air, making them an eco-friendly cooling option that doesn’t rely on harmful refrigerants. This process also adds moisture to the air, which is beneficial in dry regions where air conditioning can cause dryness and discomfort.
Many modern Symphony coolers also come with advanced features like remote control, honeycomb cooling pads, and dust filters that improve cooling efficiency and air quality. Check out the best Symphony coolers in 2025 here.
Symphony Diet 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler is a compact and stylish cooler for small room use, ideal for bedrooms, study areas, or personal spaces. As one of the Best Symphony coolers in 2025, it offers efficient performance with only 170W power consumption. Its i-Pure Technology ensures clean, filtered air, while the high-speed blower gives quick cooling. With a 12L tank and honeycomb pads, it’s perfect for single users seeking a portable, energy-efficient personal cooler for dry regions.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers share mixed reviews on cooling, noise, size, and value. Water pump and sprinkling system often face complaints.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it’s an energy-efficient, compact Symphony cooler perfect for small rooms and personal use.
Symphony Ice Cube 27 Personal Air Cooler is a compact and efficient cooler for small room cooling, ideal for rooms up to 16 sq. meters. With a 27L water tank, i-Pure Technology, and honeycomb pads, this Symphony cooler ensures clean, cool air. Its powerful fan provides quick, effective cooling with minimal energy consumption—just 95 watts. It also features a cool flow dispenser, auto louver movement, and inverter compatibility, making it an excellent choice for energy-efficient, reliable cooling during hot summers.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers provide mixed feedback on cooling performance, size, water pump, fan speed, noise, build quality, and value for money.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it offers efficient, energy-saving cooling with a large tank capacity for medium-sized rooms.
Symphony HiFlo 40 Personal Air Cooler is a high-performance cooler designed for ultimate cooling comfort. With a 40L water tank, i-Pure Technology, and honeycomb pads, it delivers efficient, clean air. This cooler ensures energy savings with just 150 watts of power consumption, making it more cost-effective than traditional ACs. The powerful blower provides uniform cooling, while the cool flow dispenser ensures even water distribution. Ideal for small to medium rooms, it offers extended cooling and easy mobility with 360° caster wheels.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the air cooler’s powerful airflow for small rooms but report mixed reviews on build quality, cooling, noise, and functionality.
Why choose this product?
If you want a reliable, energy-saving cooler for smaller spaces, the Symphony HiFlo 40 is a smart choice. It provides powerful and consistent cooling, reduces your electricity bills, and ensures cleaner air with i-Pure Technology.
Symphony Sumo 75 XL Desert Cooler is designed for large spaces with its 75L water tank and efficient honeycomb pads. Ideal for cooling rooms up to 37 square meters, this desert cooler uses 190 watts of energy, making it an energy-efficient choice. It features i-Pure Technology to purify the air and a powerful +Air fan for strong, uniform airflow. Its auto-swing function ensures even air circulation, making it perfect for homes that need consistent cooling.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the air cooler’s build quality, size, and airflow but have mixed feedback on noise, cooling, and value. The water pump is a major concern.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it efficiently cools large spaces, consumes low power, and purifies the air.
Symphony Jumbo 95XL+ Desert Cooler offers powerful and efficient cooling for large spaces with its 95L water tank and honeycomb pads. It’s designed for rooms up to 26 square meters, using just 205 watts of energy. Featuring Cool Flow Dispenser for even cooling and whisper-quiet operation, this desert cooler is perfect for a peaceful, cool environment. Its fully closable louvers add to its energy efficiency and cleanliness, making it ideal for residential use.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers like the cooler’s performance and 12-feet air throw but report mixed cooling, noise, size, value, and poor build quality.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it provides powerful, quiet cooling, consumes low energy, and is perfect for residential spaces.
Symphony HiFlo 40 Personal Air Cooler is a compact cooler for small room setups, designed by one of the best Symphony coolers in 2025. It runs on just 150 watts of energy, making it highly efficient. Known for its honeycomb pads and i-Pure technology, it helps reduce allergens and odors. Ideal for personal use, it includes a 40L water tank, a powerful blower, and ergonomic dial controls. A good pick for those who prefer energy-saving coolers with basic cooling needs.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers share mixed views on cooling and build quality. Water flow issues and poor service, especially from Symphony, are commonly reported.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it’s energy-efficient, compact, and suits personal cooling in small rooms with added air filtering.
Symphony Movicool L 125 Desert Cooler is a powerful option among the best Symphony coolers in 2025, suitable for large areas or semi-industrial spaces. With a huge 125-liter tank, this desert cooler delivers uniform airflow using honeycomb pads and a cool flow dispenser. Running at around 240 watts, it’s inverter-compatible and efficient for long-hour use. The whisper-quiet operation, durable build, and fully closable louvers make it a cooler for small room to larger areas needing lasting, dust-free comfort.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the air cooler’s airflow and size for big rooms but report mixed functionality, noisy operation, and inconsistent build quality.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it’s ideal for spacious areas, delivers strong cooling, and operates quietly with low energy use.
8. Symphony Storm 70 XL Desert Air Cooler For Home with Honeycomb Pads
Symphony Storm 70 XL Desert Cooler is one of the best Symphony coolers in 2025 for dry climates and mid-sized spaces. With i-Pure technology, it filters dust and allergens while keeping energy use to just 200 watts. This symphony cooler is equipped with a 70L tank, cool flow dispenser, and auto swing panels for even air circulation. It’s a strong pick for users looking for a cooler for small room to medium-sized homes that value clean, consistent airflow.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers give mixed reviews on cooling, quality, and design. Water leakage, faulty motor, and swing issues make it feel overpriced.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it purifies air while cooling, works on inverters, and suits medium rooms without high electricity use.
Symphony Winter 80 XL Desert Cooler is ideal for large rooms with its powerful airflow, 4-sided honeycomb pads, and 80L water tank. Known for energy efficiency (190W) and i-Pure technology, it filters air and ensures even cooling. With whisper-quiet operation and a mobile trolley, this symphony cooler is a great pick for homes seeking effective, low-noise cooling. It covers up to 40 sq. meters and is Amazon’s Choice for a reason.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers have mixed opinions about this cooler, a few say that it cools their space well while a few complain about the performance.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it provides uniform cooling for larger spaces, purifies air, works quietly, and consumes very little electricity—perfect for long summer days and nights.
Symphony Arctic Circle 100 Desert Air Cooler offers powerful and efficient cooling with 3-side honeycomb pads and i-Pure + technology that purifies the air. Its CFD technology ensures even air distribution with the +Air fan, making it ideal for larger spaces. The cooler’s 100L tank ensures continuous cooling with fewer refills. Its energy-efficient design uses just 190W and comes with a 1-year warranty.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers are satisfied with the performance of this Symphony cooler.
Why choose this product?
You should choose this product because it’s designed for high performance with advanced air purification, energy efficiency, and a large tank for long-lasting cooling.
What makes Symphony coolers stand out?
Symphony coolers stand out for their innovative features, energy efficiency, and commitment to delivering clean and effective cooling. Their signature i-Pure technology includes a multi-stage filtration system that removes dust, allergens, bacteria, and odours, ensuring healthier air circulation. Equipped with high-performance honeycomb cooling pads and a Cool Flow Dispenser, these coolers offer enhanced water retention and even cooling across the room. Symphony models are also known for their low power consumption, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to air conditioners.
Is a Symphony cooler suitable for humid climates?
Symphony coolers work best in dry climates where evaporation effectively cools the air. In humid regions, the cooling effect may be less noticeable, as moisture in the air reduces evaporation. However, Symphony offers models with advanced i-Pure technology that include humidity control and air purification, making them more efficient in mixed or slightly humid conditions. If you’re in a coastal area, consider using the cooler in well-ventilated rooms or during drier parts of the day for better performance. For high humidity, an air conditioner may be a more effective option.
Can a Symphony cooler be used with an inverter during power cuts?
Yes, many Symphony coolers are inverter-compatible, making them a reliable cooling solution during power cuts. Their low power consumption means they can run on most home inverters without draining the battery quickly. However, it’s important to check the cooler’s wattage and your inverter’s capacity before use. Opt for models labelled as inverter-compatible for maximum efficiency. Using a Symphony cooler with an inverter ensures uninterrupted comfort, especially during peak summer hours when electricity issues are more frequent. It’s a great feature for areas with frequent load-shedding or unreliable power supply.
Factors to consider before buying coolers for home
- Room Size: The size of your room determines the type of cooler you need. Personal coolers are ideal for small rooms, while desert coolers are better for larger areas. Always check the air delivery rate (measured in CFM or m³/hr) to match your room size.
- Climate Conditions: Coolers work best in dry climates where evaporation is more effective. If you live in a humid area, choose a model with humidity control or consider whether an air conditioner might be a better option.
- Cooling Pads: Look for coolers with honeycomb or cellulose pads—they offer better cooling and last longer than traditional aspen pads. Honeycomb pads also require less maintenance and are more efficient in water retention.
- Water Tank Capacity: A larger tank means longer cooling hours without refills. Choose a tank size that suits your daily usage and avoid constant water top-ups, especially during peak summer.
- Portability and Design: Check if the cooler has caster wheels and a compact design for easy movement and space-saving. A sleek, modern cooler can also blend well with your home décor.
- Additional Features: Look for user-friendly features like remote control, inverter compatibility, water level indicators, auto shut-off, and multi-stage air purification (like Symphony’s i-Pure tech) for enhanced comfort and convenience.
Top 3 features in the best Symphony coolers in 2025
|
Best Symphony coolers in 2025 |
Water Tank Capacity |
Type |
Power Consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symphony Diet 12T Personal Tower Air Cooler for Home | 12L | Personal Tower | 170 Watts |
| Symphony Ice Cube 27 Personal Air Cooler For Home | 27L | Personal | 95 Watts |
| Symphony HiFlo 40 Personal Air Cooler For Home | 40L | Personal | 150 Watts |
| Symphony Sumo 75 XL Desert Air Cooler For Home | 75L | Desert | 190 Watts |
| Symphony Jumbo 95XL+ Desert Air Cooler for Home | 95L | Desert | 205 Watts |
| Symphony Sumo 115XL Desert Air Cooler for Home | 115L | Desert | Not Specified |
| Symphony MOVICOOL L 125 Portable Air Cooler For Home | 125L | Portable | 215 Watts |
| Symphony Storm 70 XL Desert Air Cooler For Home | 70L | Desert | 200 Watts |
| Symphony Winter 80 XL Desert Air Cooler for Home | 80L | Desert | 200 Watts |
| Symphony Arctic Circle 100 Desert Air Cooler | 100L | i-Pure + Technology | 190 Watts |
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FAQs on Symphony coolers
- What’s the difference between personal and desert coolers?
Personal coolers are compact and suitable for small rooms, while desert coolers have larger tanks and higher airflow for bigger spaces.
- Are coolers effective in humid areas?
Coolers are less effective in high humidity since evaporation is slower. They work best in dry climates.
- How often should I clean my cooler?
Clean the water tank and pads every 1–2 weeks during regular use to maintain hygiene and performance.
- What are honeycomb cooling pads?
Honeycomb pads are made of cellulose and offer better cooling and durability compared to traditional wood wool pads.
- Can I use a cooler in a closed room?
No, coolers need proper ventilation for effective cooling. Always keep a window or door slightly open.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
April 2025 has been a busy month for smartphone launches. So far, we have seen several new releases, including mid-range devices, entry-level models, and flagships, spanning a wide range of price points. Brands like Realme, Vivo, iQOO, and others have all introduced new options. Let us take you through what these phones offer, their retail prices, and more. Read on.
iQOO Z10 and iQOO Z10X
Price: iQOO Z10 costs ₹21,999, iQOO Z10x start at ₹16,499
The iQOO Z10 and the iQOO Z10x are two of the latest mid-range smartphones by iQOO. They were launched on 11th April and feature performance-oriented specifications, much like the rest of the iQOO smartphone range. The iQOO Z10, in particular, comes with a massive 7,300mAh battery and supports 90W fast charging. The phone is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset and offers up to 12GB of RAM.
As for the iQOO Z10x, it was also launched on 11th April alongside the Z10. It features a slightly less powerful Dimensity 7300 chipset and a 6,500mAh battery. It can be configured with up to 256GB of storage.
Vivo V50e
Price: ₹28,999
Moving on to the vivo V50e, it is the follow-up to the vivo V40e, which launched last year. While similar, there are several differences between the two. The Vivo V50e offers dual IP ratings, IP68 and IP69. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset and features a 50MP main camera alongside an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The phone has a 5,600mAh battery, which is slightly larger than the V40e’s 5,500mAh battery.
Realme Narzo 80 Pro
Price: ₹19,999
As for the Realme Narzo 80 Pro, it comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset. It features a 6.72-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 12GB of RAM. The device packs a 6,000mAh battery and meets the MIL-STD-810H standard, offering dual IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance ratings. For the optics, it packs a 50MP main camera and a 2MP secondary shooter.
Infinix Note 50s 5G+
Price: ₹15,999 ( ₹14,999 effective)
Infinix Note 50s 5G+ is packing the Mediatek Dimensity 7300 Ultimate chipset, alongside 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage. For the display, it gets a 6.78-inch 144Hz panel and for the optics, it has a 64 MP main shooter, and a 2MP secondary shooter.
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