Die Geschichte nimmt aus Sicht der Öffentlichkeit im Mai 2019 ihren Anfang, als die New York Times von Rudy Giulianis Reiseplänen in die Ukraine berichtet. Er will sich in Kiew mit dem eben gewählten Präsidenten Selenskyj treffen, und der Anwalt weiß selbst sehr genau, dass seine Absichten heikel sind. "Wir mischen uns nicht in eine Wahl ein, wir mischen uns in eine Ermittlung ein, wozu wir das Recht haben", sagt er der Zeitung. Man könne meinen, es sei unangemessen, aber "daran ist nichts illegal". Giuliani will, dass in der Ukraine Ermittlungen verfolgt werden, für die es kaum eine Grundlage gibt - "weil diese Informationen sehr, sehr hilfreich für meinen Klienten sein werden und sich als hilfreich für meine Regierung herausstellen könnten".

From the point of view of the public, the story began in May 2019, when the New York Times reported of Rudy Giuliani´s travel plans to Ukraine. He had intended to meet with the newly elected President Zelensky in Kiev, and the lawyer himself knew that his intentions were precarious. "We are not interfering with an election, we are interfering with an investigation, and we have a right to that", he told the newspaper. It could be seen as inappropriate, but "there was nothing illegal there". Giuliani wants the investigations, for which there is barely any evidence, to be carried out in Ukraine - "because this information is going to be very, very helpful to my client and could prove helpful to my government as well".

From a public perspective, the story begins in May 2019, when the New York Times reports Rudy Giuliani’s travel plans to Ukraine. He wants to meet the recently elected President Zelensky in Kiev, and the lawyer himself knows very well how delicate his intentions are. “We are not interfering in an election, we are interfering in an investigation, which we have the right to do,” he tells the newspaper. One could argue that it is inappropriate, but “there is nothing illegal about it”. Giuliani wants Ukraine to start investigations for which there is hardly any basis – “because this information will be very, very helpful for my client and could turn out to be very helpful for my government.”


Der Anwalt und frühere New Yorker Bürgermeister scheint sich mit rechten Verschwörungsfantasien infiziert zu haben, die auf Trumps Gegenkandidatin bei der Wahl 2016 fixiert sind: Hillary Clinton habe mit Akteuren in der Ukraine konspiriert, sagten Kritiker damals, um einen Anlass für die Russland-Ermittlungen in den USA zu konstruieren. Dieser Vorwurf war allerdings nie ernst zu nehmen.

The lawyer and former mayor of New York City seems to have indulged in right-wing conspiracy fantasies, fixated on Trump´s opponent in the 2016 election: The critics at the time claimed that Hillary Clinton had conspired with persons in Ukraine in order to create a pretext for Russian investigations in the USA. This accusation, however, was never to be taken seriously.

The lawyer and former New York mayor seems to be infected with right-wing conspiracy fantasies focused on Trump's opponent during the 2016 elections: Hillary Clinton. She has conspired with agents in the Ukraine, critics said back then to construct an excuse for the Russia investigations in the US. However, this accusation was never meant to be taken seriously.


Dabei geht es um genau die Ermittlungen, über die Trump im Juli am Telefon mit Selenskyj so prominent sprechen wird. Die Version Giulianis und des Präsidenten lautet: Der frühere Vizepräsident und derzeit aussichtsreiche Bewerber für die Präsidentschaftskandidatur der Demokraten, Joe Biden, habe als Ukraine-Beauftragter der Obama-Regierung auf die Entlassung des damaligen ukrainischen Generalstaatsanwalts Wiktor Schokin gedrängt. Und zwar, um die von ihm verantwortete Untersuchung des Gasunternehmens zu stoppen, in dessen Aufsichtsrat sein Sohn Hunter Biden tätig war. Biden senior habe die Ukraine finanziell erpresst, um die korrupten Machenschaften seiner Familie zu vertuschen.

This is exactly the kind of investigation that Trump spoke about so clearly on in the telephone conversation with Zelensky later on in July. The president´s and Giuliani´s version is as follows: Former vice president and currently a candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination Joe Biden had urged for the dismissal of the former Ukrainian Attorney General Viktor Schokin during his time as the Obama administration's representative to Ukraine. The goal was to prevent an investigation into the gas company for which he himself was responsible, and where his son, Hunter Biden served as a member of the board of directors. Biden senior had blackmailed Ukraine financially in order to conceal the corrupt machinations of his family.

This is exactly the kind of investigation that Trump would talk about so prominently on the phone with Zelensky in July. Giuliani’s and the President's version are: former Vice President and currently most promising Democratic presidential candidate, Joe Biden, in his role as the Obama administration's representative to Ukraine, had pushed for the dismissal of the Ukrainian Attorney General at the time, Victor Shokin. This was in order to stop the investigation of the gas company on whose board his son Hunter Biden was a member. Biden senior had blackmailed Ukraine financially to cover up the corrupt activities of his family.


Tatsächlich war der Ablauf etwas anders. Als Joe Biden forderte, der ukrainische Generalstaatsanwalt müsse gehen, waren die Ermittlungen gegen das Gasunternehmen bereits abgeschlossen, Hunter Biden war davon nie direkt betroffen. Schokin wurde zudem selbst zutiefst korruptes Gebaren vorgeworfen, die US-Regierung war bei Weitem nicht der einzige westliche Partner, der auf seine Entlassung drängte. Im Übrigen unterstützte die Obama-Regierung sogar ausdrücklich die Ermittlungen gegen das Unternehmen.

The reality was somewhat different. At the time when Joe Biden demanded that the Ukrainian Attorney General leave, the investigations against the gas company had already been completed and Hunter Biden was never directly affected. In addition, Schokin himself was accused of deeply corrupt behavior, and the US government was by no means the only Western partner to insist on his dismissal In addition, the Obama administration expressly supported the investigation of the company.

In reality, things happened somewhat differently. When Joe Biden demanded that the Ukrainian Attorney General be dismissed, the investigations against the gas company had already been concluded. Hunter Biden was never directly involved. Shokin himself was also accused of deeply corrupt conduct, and the US government was by no means the only Western partner pressing for his dismissal. Incidentally, the Obama government even explicitly supported the investigations into the company.


Störungen bei Instagram Facebook und Whatsapp: Soziale Medien sind down

Instagram, Facebook, and Whatsapp disruption: Social media are down

Service disruptions at Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp: social media pages are down


Nutzer weltweit melden massive Störungen bei Instagram und Facebook. Demnach sind vor allem Deutschland, Großbritannien und Spanien betroffen. Auf der Website allestörungen.de berichten Nutzer, dass Facebook seit etwa 15.30 Uhr immer wieder nicht lädt. Auch Instagram gibt die Fehlermeldung aus, dass Inhalte nicht geladen werden konnten. Auch Whatsapp scheint von der Störung betroffen, wenn auch bisher nicht im selben Umfang.

Users worldwide are reporting massive disruptions to Instagram and Facebook. According to reports, Germany, Great Britain, and Spain have been the most affected. Users at allestörungen.de are reporting that Facebook has not loaded since around 3:30 p.m. Instagram is also returning an error message that content cannot be loaded. Even Whatsapp seems to be affected by the interruption, although not to the same degree.

Users throughout the world have reported massive disruptions to Instagram and Facebook. Germany, Great Britain and Spain have been particularly affected. Users have reported to the website allestörungen.de that since about 3:30 p.m. the social media pages have repeatedly been failing to load. Instagram has also been issuing error messages that content cannot be loaded. WhatsApp, too, seems to be affected by the problem, if, thus far, not to the same degree.


Instagram und Co. öfter von Störungen betroffen

Instagram and other social media often affected by disruptions

Instagram & Co. often affected by service disruptions


Es ist nicht der erste massive Störfall in diesem Jahr. Bereits im März und im Juli waren die Dienste für mehrere Stunden ausgefallen. Und wie in den vorherigen Fällen greifen Nutzer auch diesmal vor allem auf Twitter zurück, um ihrem Ärger Luft zu machen.

This is not the first widespread failure this year. Services were down for several hours in March and July. And, as during past incidents, users are falling back to Twitter to vent their frustration.

This is not the first case of massive disruptions this year. Back in March and July the services were out of action for several hours. And as in the previous cases, users are using Twitter in particular to air their dissatisfaction.


Polnische Wissenschaftler in der Antarktis gerettet

Polish scientists saved in Antarctica
Polish Scientists Rescued in Antarctica


Drei polnische Wissenschaftler sind von der chilenischen Luftwaffe aus dem Eis der Antarktis gerettet worden. Sie waren mit einem Schlauchboot unterwegs und mehrere Meilen von ihrer Basis entfernt, als ihr Motor versagte. Sie hatten Glück im Unglück - weniger als eine Stunde brauchte der chilenische Rettungshubschrauber für die Bergung.

Three Polish scientist were saved by the Chilean air-force from the icy Antarctica. They were travelling in a dinghy and were several miles from their base when their engine failed. They were lucky - the Chilean rescue helicopter arrived in less than an hour.

Three Polish scientists have been rescued from the Antarctic ice by the Chilean Air Force. They were en route in an inflatable boat, several miles away from their base, when their engine failed. They were lucky in their misfortune – it took the Chilean rescue helicopter less than an hour to rescue them.


Eduardo Mosquera, Kommandeur der 4. chilenischen Luftbrigade:

Eduardo Mosquera, commander of the 4th Chilean air brigade said:

Eduardo Mosquera, Commander of the 4th Chilean Air Brigade:


"Um 9:30 Uhr erhielten wir die Nachricht, um kurz vor zehn sind wir gestartet, und gute 20 Minuten spàter waren wir über dem Schlauchboot".

"We received the message at 9:30am, we were on our way shortly before 10, and in around 20 minutes we reached the dinghy".

“At 9:30 am we received the message, shortly before 10:00 am we took off, and about 20 minutes later we were above the inflatable.”


Polen betreibt auf King George Island seit 1977 die Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station , 19 Wissenschaftler arbeiten dort. Die verfrorenen Forscher wurden sicher zu ihrer Forschungsstation zurück gebracht.

Poland has been running the Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station on King George Island since 1977 and there are currently 19 scientists working there. The lost scientists were safely brought back to their research station.

Poland has operated the Henryk Arctowski Polish Antarctic Station on King George Island since 1977; 19 scientists work there. The thoroughly chilled scientists were safely returned to their research station.


Achtung: Smartphone NIE kabellos aufladen

Warning: NEVER Charge your Smartphone Wirelessly

Warning: Never Charge Your Smartphone Wirelessly


Practical but Dangerous
Handy but harmful


Induktive Technik via Qi-Standard ist zwar extrem praktisch, sollte aber dennoch nicht verwendet werden.

Although extremely practical, inductive technology via Qi standard should not be used.

Although inductive technology via Qi standard is extremely convenient, it should not be used.


Da zuletzt gleich mehrere neue Smartphones auf den Markt gekommen sind, die kabelloses Aufladen unterstützen und sich sehr gut verkaufen - allen voran die neuen iPhone-11-Modelle, möchten wir noch einmal eine Studie von Anfang Juli ins Gedächtnis rufen. Das kabellose Laden von mobilen Geräten ist zwar äußerst praktisch, aber nicht unbedingt empfehlenswert.

Since many new smartphones have recently come onto the market that support wireless charging and sell well—especially the new iPhone 11—we'd like to remind you of a study done at the beginning of July. Charging mobile devices without a cord is practical but not necessarily recommended.

Since several new smartphones that support wireless charging have been released on the market recently and are selling very well – especially the new iPhone 11 models – we would like to remind readers of a study carried out in early July. Wireless charging of mobile devices is indeed convenient, but not necessarily recommended.


Higher Temperatures Stress the Battery
Higher temperatures harm battery


Forscher warnen vor dem kabellosen Laden von Smartphones. Dieses ist laut den Erkenntnissen der Univerity of Warwick nämlich für die Geräte extrem schädlich. Grund dafür ist die deutlich größere Wärmeentwicklung. Lädt man ein Handy normal per Kabel auf, erhitzt sich der Akku binnen drei Stunden auf 27 Grad. Beim kabellosen Aufladen haben die Forscher selbst bei perfekter Ausrichtung des Smartphones auf dem Ladepad hingegen stets über 30 Grad gemessen. Liegt das Handy etwas neben der Spule, steigt die Temperatur noch höher. Darüber hinaus steigt dabei auch die Wattstärke des Ladepads, was wiederum den Stromverbrauch in die Höhe treibt.

Researchers warn against charging smartphones wirelessly. According to the findings of the University of Warwick, this is extremely dangerous for the devices. The reason for this is the significantly higher buildup of heat. If one charges a cell phone normally (with a cable), the battery reaches 80.6 degrees within three hours. But with wireless charging, researchers measured over 86 degrees even if the smartphone was perfectly aligned on the charging pad. If the cell phone is placed near the coil, the temperature is even higher. Moreover, the wattage of the charging pad increases, which in turn jacks up the use of power.

Scientists are warning against wireless charging of smartphones. According to the University of Warwick, it is extremely harmful to the devices. The reason for this is the significant increase in heat generation. If a mobile phone is being charged normally via cable, the battery heats up to 27 degrees Celsius within three hours. When charging wirelessly, even if the smartphone was perfectly aligned on the charging pad, the scientists always measured over 30 degrees Celsius. If the mobile phone is positioned slightly to the side of the coil, the temperature rises even higher. In addition, the wattage of the charging pad increases, which in turn increases power consumption.


Capacity and Service Life
Capacity and service life


Laut den Forschern ist die Temperatur für die Haltbarkeit von Akkus ein entscheidender Faktor. Da spielt jedes einzelne Grad eine Rolle. Beim Laden mit höheren Temperaturen buße die Batterie nicht nur an Kapazität ein, sondern sie halte auch insgesamt nicht so lange durch. Die Lebensdauer fällt also geringer aus. Die Forscher raten deshalb dazu, das Smartphone stets per Kabel aufzuladen. Da ein Akkutausch bei modernen Smartphones stets mit hohen Kosten verbunden ist, dürfte das ein hilfreicher Tipp sein. Apple hat zuletzt die Kosten für einen Akkutausch sogar noch einmal erhöht - und zwar für alle iPhones.

According to the researchers, temperature is a decisive factor in a battery's durability. And every degree matters. When charging with high temperatures, the battery not only loses capacity, but doesn't last as long. And this decreases its service life. Therefore, the researchers recommend always charging the smartphone with a cable. Since replacing batteries is expensive with modern smartphones, that may be a useful tip. Apple has even recently increased the costs for replacing batteries (again), applicable to all iPhones.

According to the scientists, temperature is a deciding factor for the durability of batteries. Every single degree is relevant. When charging at higher temperatures, the battery not only loses capacity but also durability. Its service life is therefore shorter. Thus, the scientists recommend that smartphones should always be charged via cable. Since replacing the battery in modern smartphones is always quite expensive, this should be a helpful tip. Apple has recently increased the cost of battery replacement for all iPhone models.


Dabei ist die Technik äußerst bequem:Einfach das Gerät auf ein entsprechendes Ladepad legen - diese sind mittlerweile sogar bereits in vielen Restaurants, Flughäfen, Hotels sowie Autos installiert - und der Akku wird ohne lästigem Kabelsalat und mühsamer Steckerfummelei aufgeladen. Da sich mit Qi (steht für induktive Energieübertragung) ein weltweiter Standard durchgesetzt, bei dem ausnahmsweise sogar Apple mitmacht, gibt es kaum Einschränkungen. Dennoch sollte die Technologie laut den Forschern nur im Ausnahmefall angewendet werden.

The technology is extremely convenient: Simply lay the device on an appropriate charging pad—these are even installed in many restaurants, airports, hotels, and cars—and the battery will be charged without a cumbersome "cable salad" and tedious fumbling for a plug. Since with Qi (which stands for "inductive energy transfer") a worldwide standard is enforced that even Apple adheres to by way of exception, there are hardly any restrictions. However, according to the researchers, the technology should not be used.

The technology is extremely convenient: simply place the device on an appropriate charging pad – these have now been installed in many restaurants, airports, hotels and cars, and the battery is charged without getting cables tangled or fiddling with plugs. Since Qi (which stands for inductive energy transfer) has become an established global standard which even Apple supports, there are virtually unlimited possibilities. Nevertheless, according to the scientists, the technology should only be used in exceptional cases.


Everest-Stau-Fotograf: 13 Achttausender in sechs Monaten

Photographer of Everest queues: Thirteen 26,000-foot peaks in six months

Everest traffic photographer: 13 Eight-thousanders in six months


Ein nepalesischer Bergsteiger hat nach eigenen Angaben innerhalb von nur sechs Monaten 13 der 14 höchsten Berge der Welt bestiegen. Nirmal Purja (36) habe die Spitze des Manaslu in Nepal erreicht und damit einen Rekord aufgestellt, teilte sein Expeditionsveranstalter mit.

A Nepalese climber claims to have ascended thirteen of the world's fourteen highest mountains in just six months. Nirmal Purja (36) reached the top of Manaslu in Nepal and set a record, said the organizer of his expedition.

By his own account, a mountaineer from Nepal climbed 13 of the 14 highest mountains in the world in just six months. Nirmal Purja (36) reached the summit of the Manaslu in Nepal and set a new record, according to his expedition's organizer.


Der frühere Soldat will alle 14 Achttausender in sieben Monaten erklimmen. Purja nennt sein Projekt "Mission Possible". Er machte schon einmal international Schlagzeilen: Von ihm stammt ein im Frühling viral gegangenes Foto von Bergsteigern, die auf dem Mount Everest Schlange stehen.

The ex-soldier wants to climb all fourteen peaks in seven months Purja calls his plan "Mission Possible". He has already made international headlines: A picture that went viral in the spring, showing climbers standing in line on Mount Everest, was one of his shots.

The former soldier wants to climb all 14 eight-thousanders in seven months. Purja calls his endeavor “Mission Possible”. He already made international headlines: He took the picture of mountaineers queuing on Mount Everest that went viral this spring.


Das Bild des Massenandrangs löste eine Debatte über stärkere Sicherheitsmaßnahmen auf dem 8848 Meter hohen Berg und höchsten Gipfel der Erde aus. Im Mai waren innerhalb weniger Tage elf Kletterer bei der Besteigung gestorben.

The photo of the massive line triggered a debate about stricter safety measures on the 29,000 feet-high mountain, the world's highest. In May, eleven climbers died while climbing within a few days of each other.

The picture of the huge crowd sparked a debate on stronger security measures for the 29,028 feet high mountain, the highest summit in the world. Eleven mountaineers died within a few days in May, during their ascent.


Ein Problem für Purja könnte die Besteigung des 14. Achttausenders werden: Zurzeit sperren chinesische Behörden den Xixabangma-Berg in Tibet. Als Grund dafür wird unter anderem schlechtes Wetter genannt. Anfang Woche schrieb Purja auf Twitter, dass Nepals Regierung mit China sprechen wolle, um ihm den Aufstieg zu ermöglichen.

Climbing the fourteenth 26,000-foot peak could be a problem for Purja. The Chinese authorities are blocking access to Mount Xixabangma in Tibet. Bad weather is one of the reasons given for this. Early in the week, Purja tweeted that Nepal's government wants to talk to China to allow him to climb the mountain.

Climbing the 14th eight-thousander may become a problem for Purja: currently Chinese authorities are currently blocking the Xixabangma mountain in Tibet. One of the reasons cited for this is bad weather. Earlier this week, Purja wrote on Twitter that the Nepalese government wants to negotiate with China to enable his ascent.


Vier tote Elefanten auf Sri Lanka entdeckt

Four dead elephants discovered in Sri Lanka


Unter den toten Tieren sei auch eine trächtige Elefantenkuh, teilte ein Polizeisprecher am Freitag mit. "Wir vermuten, dass die Elefantenvergiftet wurden".

A pregnant cow elephant was also found among the dead animals, stated a police spokesperson on Friday. "We suspect that the elephants were poisoned."

There is also a pregnant elephant amongst the dead animals, a police spokesman said on Friday. “We assume the elephants have been poisoned.”


Die vier Kadaver wurden in einem Schutzgebiet nahe der berühmten und von vielen Touristen besuchten früheren Felsenfestung Sigiriya gefunden. Die Tiere waren dem Polizeisprecher zufolge vermutlich zwischen 15 und 25 Jahre alt. Es wurde eine Autopsie angeordnet, um die Todesursache festzustellen.

The four bodies were found in a protected area near the ancient Sigiriya rock fortress, which is popular with tourists. According to the police spokesperson, the animals were believed to be aged between 15 and 25 years old. An autopsy was ordered to determine the cause of death.

The four carcasses have been found in a sanctuary close to the famous rock fortress Sigiriya, which attracts many tourists. According to the police spokesman, the animals were probably between 15 and 25 years old. To find the cause of death, an autopsy has been mandated.


Auf Sri Lanka werden jedes Jahr fast 200 Elefanten getötet. Die Täter sind oft Bauern, auf deren Land die Tiere sich zuvor schadlos gehalten hatten. Zugleich werden jährlich rund 50 Menschen von Elefanten getötet. Dies geschieht meist, wenn die Tiere durch nahe ihres Lebensraums gebaute Dörfer ziehen.

Almost 200 elephants are killed every year in Sri Lanka. They are often killed by farmers on whose land the animals had previously been living without causing damage. Around 50 people are also killed by elephants annually. This normally happens when the animals pass through villages near their habitat.

Almost 2,000 elephants are being killed each year in Sri Lanka. The culprits are usually farmers, on whose lands the elephants feed themselves. At the same time around 50 people are being killed by elephants annually. This usually happens when animals travel through villages built close to their habitat.


In Sri Lanka leben Schätzungen zufolge nur noch etwa 7.000 Elefanten. Auf ihre Tötung steht theoretisch die Todesstrafe.

According to estimates, there are only around 7,000 elephants remaining in Sri Lanka. Killing an elephant can incur the death penalty.

According to estimates, about 7,000 elephants are still living in Sri Lanka. In theory, killing an elephant carries the death penalty.


Festgehaltener britischer Öltanker verlässt den Iran

Impounded British oil tanker leaves Iran


Der britische Öltanker "Stena Impero" verlässt mehr als zwei Monate nach seinem Festsetzen durch den Iran die Hafenstadt Bandar Abbas. Das gab das Seefahrtsamt Bandar Abbas laut der Nachrichtenagentur IRNA bekannt. Die iranischen Revolutionsgarden hatten den unter britischer Flagge fahrenden Tanker am 19. Juli unter dem Vorwurf festgesetzt, Vorschriften des Seerechts im Persischen Golf missachtet zu haben.

British oil tanker the Stena Impero is leaving the port of Bandar Abbas after being held by Iran for more than two months. This was announced by the maritime transport office in Bander Abbas according to the news agency IRNA. Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized the British tanker on July 19 under the pretext that it had violated maritime law in the Persian Gulf.

The British oil tanker Stena Impero leaves the seaport of Bandar Abbas, after more than two months detainment by Iran. This has been announced by the Bandar Abbas maritime administration, according to the news agency IRNA. The Iranian revolutionary guards detained the tanker operating under the British flag on July 19th, based on allegations of having violated of maritime law regulations in the Persian Gulf.


Management von Thomas Cook in der Kritik

Management of Thomas Cook Under Criticism


Der zuständige Wirtschaftsausschuss des Unterhauses will die Pleite des Reisegiganten Thomas Cook umfassend untersuchen. Dabei soll es um die Gehaltspakete des Vorstands ebenso gehen wie um die Frage, warum die britische Regierung dem ums Überleben kämpfenden Unternehmen nicht finanziell beispringen mochte. "Unser Interesse gilt der Aufsicht in der Firma ebenso wie der Kontrolle durch externe Buchprüfer", teilte die Ausschussvorsitzende Rachel Reeves in London mit. "Offenbar haben wir es mit einem schlimmen Beispiel von Managementgier zu tun".

The competent economic committee of the House of Commons wants to examine the failure of travel giant Thomas Cook in detail. The management's salary packages will be studied, as well as why the British government refused financial help for the company as it fought for survival. "We are focusing on supervision inside the company and monitoring by outside auditors," said committee chairman Rachel Reeves in London. "We are obviously dealing with a serious case of management greed."

The economic committee of the House of Commons wants to investigate the bankruptcy of travel giant Thomas Cook. The main concerns are the salary packages of the board members, as well as the question of why the British government denied financial support during the corporation’s battle for survival. “Our interest is in the oversight of the corporation, as well as external auditors,” committee chairman Rachel Reeves explained in London. “Apparently, we are dealing with a bad example of management greed.”


Laut Experten werden Gene beim Darmkrebsrisiko überschätzt

Experts say the role of genes in the risk of intestinal cancer is overestimated

Role of Genes Overestimated in the Risk of Intestinal Cancer, Experts Say


Die Rolle der Gene beim familiär erhöhten Darmkrebsrisiko ist offenbar bisher überschätzt worden. Zu diesem Schluss kommen Forscher des Deutschen Krebsforschungszentrums (DKFZ) Heidelberg in einer aktuellen Studie. Andere Risikofaktoren wie familiäre Ernährungsgewohnheiten wiegen demnach wahrscheinlich schwerer als bislang angenommen. Das habe Konsequenzen für Berechnungen des individuellen Darmkrebsrisikos, betonen die DKFZ-Wissenschafter.

The role played by genes in the increased risk of common intestinal cancer has apparently been overrated until now. This was the conclusion reached in a recent study by researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg. Other risk factors such as family eating habits are more serious than previously assumed. This has consequences for determining the individual risk of intestinal cancer, say the scientists at the Center.

An increased risk of intestinal cancer through genetic predisposition has apparently been overestimated. This is the conclusion of researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg in a recent study. Other risk factors such as family dietary habits have a larger impact than previously supposed. This is of significance in calculating an individual's risk of intestinal cancer, the DKFZ scientists emphasize.


Elon Musk allows Tesla shares to rise
Musk Makes Tesla Shares Rise


Dies schrieb Musk in einer am Donnerstag (Ortszeit) vom Branchenblog "Electrek" veröffentlichten E-Mail an Tesla-Mitarbeiter. Die Nachfrage sei stark, so dass Tesla 110'000 Bestellungen verbuchen könnte, hiess es in Musks Rundschreiben weiter.

Musk wrote this in an e-mail to Tesla employees published on Thursday (local time) by the industry blog "Electrek". The demand is so strong that Tesla was able to process 110,000 orders, according to Musk's e-mail.

This is what Musk wrote in an email to Tesla employees on Thursday (local time), as published by the industry blog “Electrek”. In his circular, Musk stated that demand was high and Tesla orders could reach about 110,000.


Die Herausforderung sei, die Autos zügig an die Kundschaft zu bringen. Dazu müsse Tesla zum Quartalsende so viele Ressourcen wie möglich aufbieten.

The challenge is getting the cars to customers quickly. To do so, Tesla had to mobilize as many resources as possible by the end of the quarter.

The challenge would be to get the vehicles in the hands of customers quickly. To achieve that, Tesla would have to rally as many resources as possible toward the end of the quarter.


Anlegern gefielen die Informationen: Teslas Aktien gingen mit einem Plus von über sechs Prozent aus dem Handel. So stark hat der Kurs seit fast vier Monaten nicht mehr zugelegt. Im zweiten Quartal hatte Tesla gut 95'000 Autos ausgeliefert und damit seinen bisherigen Bestwert erreicht.

Investors liked this information: Tesla shares closed the day with a gain of over six percent. The rate has not increased as much in four months. In the second quarter, Tesla delivered a good 95,000 cars and hit its previous high value.

This satisfied investors: Tesla shares closed over 6 percent higher. Share prices had not risen by this much in close to four months. In the second quarter, Tesla reached its current delivery record of around 95,000 cars.


Musk braucht Rekorde, um seine hohen Ziele zu erreichen. 2019 will er insgesamt 360'000 bis 400'000 Wagen ausliefern. Dafür müssen im laufenden und kommenden Vierteljahr sechsstellige Zahlen her. Vor allem der günstigste Tesla Model 3 ist gefragt, doch hier sind die Gewinnspannen gering. Trotz des Booms gab es zuletzt Verluste.

Musk needs records to achieve his ambitious goals. In 2019 he wants to deliver a total of 360,000 to 400,000 cars. The company would have to hit six-digit figures in the current and upcoming quarter to do so. The less expensive Tesla Model 3 is in particular demand, but profit margins are low here. There were recent losses despite the boom.

Musk needs records to achieve his ambitious objectives. In 2019, he intends to deliver between 360,000 and 400,000 cars. This involves six-digit figures for this and the coming quarter. The least expensive Tesla Model 3 is the most popular, but its profit margins are slim. Despite the boom, there have been recent losses.


Will britische Regierung Brexit-Gesetz umgehen? Johnson zurückhaltend

Will the British government bypass the Brexit law? Johnson abstained

Does the British Government Want to Circumvent the Brexit Bill? Johnson Remains Reserved


Der britische Premierminister Boris Johnson hält sich darüber bedeckt, ob er nach Möglichkeiten einer Umgehung des zuletzt vom Parlament beschlossenen Gesetzes gegen einen ungeregelten Brexit sucht. Auf eine entsprechende Frage sagte er am Freitag vor Journalisten lediglich, seine Regierung werde sich an geltendes Recht halten.

The British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is being discrete about whether he is trying to find ways of bypassing the law on unregulated Brexit recently passed by the Parliament. When questioned to that end, Johnson has merely told journalists that his government would comply with applicable law.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is keeping a low profile on whether he is looking for ways to circumvent the bill recently passed by Parliament against a no-deal Brexit. When asked the question on Friday, he told journalists only that his government would abide by the law.


Das Gesetz sieht vor, dass die Regierung eine Verschiebung des Austrittstermins beantragen muss, sollte bis Mitte Oktober kein Abkommen mit der EU erzielt sei. Johnson kritisiert dies als "Kapitulationsgesetz", das die Verhandlungen mit der EU erschwere.

The law obliges the government to request a postponement of the date of withdrawal if an agreement with the EU cannot be reached by mid-October. Johnson criticizes this as a "capitulation law" that makes negotiating with the EU more difficult.

The law stipulates that the government must request a postponement of the withdrawal date if no agreement with the EU is reached by mid-October. Johnson criticized this as a "capitulation law" that would make negotiations with the EU more difficult.


Der ehemalige britische Premierminister John Major hatte am Donnerstag die Vermutung geäußert, Johnson könne versuchen, "politische Schikane" einzusetzen, um das Gesetz zu umgehen. Johnson könne einen Verfahrenstrick einsetzen, der das Inkrafttreten des Gesetzes auf die Zeit nach dem EU-Austritt verschiebe.

On Thursday, the former British Prime Minister John Major expressed the suspicion that Johnson might attempt to use "political chicanery" to circumvent the law. Johnson might use a procedural trick that would postpone the law's entry into force until after the withdrawal from the EU.

Former British Prime Minister John Major expressed the suspicion that Johnson may try to use political chicanery to circumvent the law. Johnson could use a procedural trick to postpone the law taking effect until the time after Britain's withdrawal from the EU.


Johnson sagte, er strebe einen Vertrag mit der Europäischen Union an. "Wir sind zuversichtlich, die EU am 31. Oktober zu verlassen, und der beste Weg ist der mit einer Vereinbarung".

Johnson said he is striving for a treaty with the European Union. "We're confident about leaving the EU on October 31, and the best path is to do so with an agreement."

Johnson said that he wanted a treaty with the European Union. “We are confident that we will leave the EU on October 31st, and the best way forward is with an agreement.”


Iran fährt offenbar Urananreicherung hoch

Iran is apparently starting Uranium enrichment

Iran Appears to Be Increasing Its Uranium Enrichment


Irans Präsident Hassan Rohani hat im Streit über die Rettung des historischen Atomabkommens den Druck auf die europäischen Vertragspartner erhöht. "Leider zeigen die europäischen Staaten Unfähigkeit oder mangelnde Bereitschaft, wenn es um konkrete Aktionen geht", sagte Rohani am Donnerstag bei einer Pressekonferenz am Rande der UN-Vollversammlung in New York. Für den Fall, dass sie nicht zu ihren Versprechen stünden, stellte er "weitere Schritte" weg von den Vereinbarungen des mühsam ausgehandelten Abkommens von 2015 in Aussicht.

Iran's president Hassan Rohani has increased pressure on European contract partners about the rescue of the historic nuclear deal. "Regrettably the European states are showing an inability or lacking readiness when it comes to concrete action," Rohani said on Thursday at the press conference on the sidelines of the US General Assembly in New York. In case they do not stand by their promise, he put in view "further steps" away from the agreements of the laboriously negotiated convention of 2015.

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani has increased pressure on the European contracting partners in the conflict over how to rescue the historic nuclear deal. “Unfortunately, European nations are demonstrating incompetence or unwillingness when it comes to specific actions,” Rouhani said on Thursday during a press conference on the fringes of the UN General Assembly in New York. In the event that they would not stand by their pledges, he promised “further steps” away from the agreements of the treaty, negotiated with difficulty in 2015.


Hintergrund ist der Konflikt um das internationale Abkommen zur Verhinderung einer iranischen Atombombe, das als Gegenleistung die Zusage an Teheran enthielt, die Wirtschaftsbeziehungen zu normalisieren. Die USA stiegen 2018 im Alleingang aus dem Abkommen aus, um Iran mit "maximalem Druck" zu einem Kurswechsel in der als aggressiv erachteten Nahostpolitik zu zwingen. Die Regierung von Präsident Donald Trump will ein neues Abkommen mit härteren Auflagen aushandeln und setzt inzwischen wieder auf harte Sanktionen gegen Teheran. Iran reagierte darauf zuletzt mit einem Wiederhochfahren der im Vertrag begrenzten Urananreicherung.

The backdrop is the conflict about the international convention to prevent an Iranian nuclear bomb, which in return contained a promise to Tehran to normalize economic relations. The USA single-handedly got out of the agreement in 2018 in order to force Iran into a change of course with "maximum pressure" in what was considered aggressive Near East politics. The leadership of President Donald Trump wants to deal a new agreement and is imposing hard sanctions against Tehran in the meantime. Iran last reacted to this with a relaunching of the uranium enrichment limited in the contract.

The background of all this is the international treaty to prevent an Iranian nuclear bomb, which in return contained a promise to Tehran to normalize economic relations. The US unilaterally withdrew from the treaty in 2018 to use “maximum pressure” to force Iran to change the course of its Middle East policy, which was perceived as aggressive. President Donald Trump’s government wants to negotiate a new agreement with tighter restrictions and has reverted to tougher sanctions against Tehran. Iran recently reacted to this by increasing its uranium enrichment, which is limited by the treaty.


Die Internationale Atomenergiebehörde (IAEA) bestätigte in einem Bericht, dass die Islamische Republik die Anfang September installierten Zentrifugen nun auch mit Uran nutzt oder zumindest zur Nutzung vorbereitet hat. Nach IAEA-Angaben bereitet Iran zudem den Aufbau von mehr als 300 weiteren Zentrifugen vor.

The international nuclear energy authority (IAEA) confirmed in a report, that the Islamic Republic is now utilizing centrifuges installed at the beginning of September using Uranium, or has at least prepared them for use thus. According to IAEA information, Iran is moreover preparing the construction of over 300 more centrifuges.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed in a report that the Islamic Republic is now using centrifuges installed in early September with uranium or has at least prepared them for use. According to IAEA information, Iran is also preparing to assemble over 300 additional centrifuges.


Vielleicht seien die Europäer nicht bereit, ihren Teil des Deals zu tragen und ließen deshalb die Iraner mit den Kosten und der Last drückender US-Sanktionen alleine, mutmaßte Rohani. Es werde aber trotzdem weitere Gespräche geben, die hoffentlich eine Lösung brächten.

Perhaps Europeans are not prepared to carry their end of the deal and may for this reason leave Iranians alone with the costs and the burden of pressurizing US sanctions, Rohani presumed. However, more discussions are planned, which will hopefully bring a solution.

Perhaps the Europeans are not willing to carry their part of the deal, thus abandoning the Iranians to the cost and burden of the oppressive US sanctions, Rouhani speculated. But there would be continued talks, hopefully leading to a solution.


Rohani bestreitet weiter Irans Verwicklung in Angriffe in Saudi-Arabien

Rohani continues to deny Iran's involvement in attacks in Saudi Arabia.

Rouhani continues to deny Iran’s involvement in attacks in Saudi Arabia


Allerdings hat sich die Gemengelage nach einem Angriff auf eine wichtige Ölanlage in Saudi-Arabien Mitte September geändert: Deutschland, Frankreich und Großbritannien folgten am Montag der US-Einschätzung, dass Teheran für die Attacke Verantwortung trage. Ursprünglich hatten sich die von Iran unterstützten Huthi-Rebellen in Jemen zu dem Angriff bekannt, was von den USA jedoch als falsches Bekenntnis gewertet wurde. "Wir haben nichts damit zu tun", bekräftigte Rohani am Mittwoch seine Position.

However, the situation changed after an attack on an important oil plant in Saudi Arabia in mid-September. Germany, France and Great Britain followed the US assessment on Monday that Tehran was responsible for the attacks. Originally, the Huthi rebels in Yemen supported by Iran had committed to the attack, which the USA weighed up as a wrongful confession, though. "We have nothing to do with that," Rohani augmented his position.

The convoluted situation has certainly changed since an attack on an important oil plant in Saudi Arabia in mid-September. On Monday Germany, France, and Great Britain shared the US assessment that Tehran was responsible for the attack. Originally, Houthi insurgents, supported by Iran, claimed responsibility for the attack in Yemen, but the US classified the claim as false. “We had nothing to do with it,” Rouhani reaffirmed his position on Wednesday.


"Diejenigen, die solche Anschuldigungen erheben, müssen Beweise dafür vorlegen", sagte Rohani. Das hätten die europäischen Anführer in den Gesprächen mit ihm während der UN-Generaldebatte allerdings nicht gekonnt. Stattdessen hätten sie sich nur darauf berufen, dass die Rebellen in Jemen einen Angriff wie diesen nicht ausführen könnten. Rohani hatte sich in den vergangenen Tagen mit Bundeskanzlerin Angela Merkel, Frankreichs Präsident Emmanuel Macron und dem britischen Premierminister Boris Johnson getroffen.

"Those people who make such accusations have to provide evidence of this on a rolling basis," Rohani said. The European leaders were apparently not able to do that during talks with him at the UN General Assembly. Instead they would have only relied on the fact, that the rebels in Yemen could not carry out an attack like this. Rohani has in recent days met with Chancellor Angela Merkel, France's President Emmanuel Macron and the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

“Whoever makes such accusations must provide evidence,” Rouhani said. But during the talks with him at the UN General Assembly, European leaders were not able to do so. Instead they had only referred to the fact that the insurgents in Yemen would not have been able to execute such an attack. In the past few days, Rouhani had met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.


Vor möglichen Gesprächen mit US-Präsident Trump müssten zunächst die weitreichenden Sanktionen der US-Administration aufgehoben werden, verlangte Rohani. Er forderte die Regierung in Washington auf, auf eine Politik von "Dialog und Vernunft" umzuschwenken.

Before potential talks with US president Trump, the wide-reaching sanctions imposed by the US administration should have to be lifted, Rohani demanded. He urged the government in Washington to switch to a policy of "dialogue and reason."

The far-reaching sanctions of the US administration would have to be lifted before talks with US President Trump would become a possibility, Rouhani demanded. He urged the government in Washington to change their policy to one of “dialogue and reason.”


Komet von anderem Stern durchkreuzt Sonnensystem

Comet of another star crosses solar system

Comet From Another Star Crosses Solar System


Astronomen beobachten derzeit einen Kometen aus den tiefen des Weltalls. Das gelang zuvor erst einmal. Der Komet lässt Rückschlüsse auf andere Sonnensysteme zu.

Astronomers are currently observing a comet from deep space. This has been achieved before. The comet helps draw conclusions about other solar systems.

Astronomers are currently observing a comet from the depths of space. This has only happened once before. The comet allows conclusions to be drawn about other solar systems.


Was anfangs nur eine Vermutung war, ist nun bestätigt: Ein interstellarer Gast kreuzt durch unser Sonnensystem. Der Komet aus der Tiefe des Weltraums wurde nach seinem Entdecker auf 2I/Borisov getauft und hat das Interesse von Astronomen auf der ganzen Welt geweckt.

What used to be only a speculation has now been confirmed: An interstellar guest crosses through our solar system. The deep space comet was named 2I/Borisov after its discoverer and has aroused the interest of astronomers all over the world.

What started out as an assumption has now been confirmed: an interstellar guest is crossing our solar system. The comet from the depths of space has been named 2I/Borisov after the person who discovered it and is attracting interest from astronomers around the world.


Der weitgereiste Komet war am 30. August vom Amateurastronomen Gennadi Borissow am Margo-Observatorium auf der Krim entdeckt worden - mit einem selbstgebauten Teleskop von 65 Zentimetern Durchmesser. Nachbeobachtungen verschiedener Observatorien bestätigten nicht nur, dass es sich um einen unbekannten Kometen handelt, sondern zeigten auch, dass er nicht aus unserem Sonnensystem stammt.

The travelling comet was discovered on August 30th by an amateur astronomer Gennadi Borisov at the Margo observatory in Crimea.- and that using a self-made telescope with a 65 centimeter diameter. Later research by various observatories confirmed, not only that this was a previously unseen comet, but also that the comet did not originate from our solar system.

The widely-traveled comet was discovered on August 30 by amateur astronomer Gennadi Borisov at the Margo observatory in Crimea – with a self-made telescope only 65 centimeters in diameter. Follow-up observations by various observatories not only confirmed that it was an unknown comet, but also showed that it does not originate from our solar system.


2I/Borisov ist nach 1I/'Oumuamua von 2017 erst das zweite interstellare Objekt, das bei einem Durchflug unseres Sonnensystems gesichtet wurde.

2I/Borisov is only the second interstellar object sighted while travelling through our solar system, after 1I/'Oumuamua from 2017.

After 1I/'Oumuamua in 2017, 2I/Borisov is only the second interstellar object found traveling through our solar system.


2I/Borisov bietet Astronomen die seltene Chance, aus der Nähe Einblicke in ein fremdes Sonnensystem zu bekommen, bevor er auf Nimmerwiedersehen entschwindet. Erste Beobachtungen zeigen, dass der interstellare Komet denen unseres eigenen Systems ähnelt, wie das astrophysikalische Institut der Kanaren berichtete. "Die gegenwärtige Geschwindigkeit des Kometen ist hoch, ungefähr 150.000 Kilometer pro Stunde, was in dieser Entfernung deutlich oberhalb der typischen Geschwindigkeiten von Objekten liegt, die die Sonne umkreisen", berichtete etwa Davide Farnocchia von der US-Raumfahrtbehörde Nasa in einer Mitteilung.

2I/Borisov is a rare opportunity for astronomers to obtain a closer look into an unknown solar system, before the comet disappears never to be seen again. First observations show that the interstellar comet resembles the comets of our own solar system, as the Canary Islands Astrophysical Institute reported. "The comet's current speed is high, about 150,000 kilometers per hour, which at this distance is well above the typical speeds of objects orbiting the Sun," said Davide Farnocchia of the US space agency NASA in a press release.

2I/Borisov offers astronomers a unique opportunity to gather insights into alien solar systems before it disappears forever. First observations show how the interstellar comet resembles those of our own system, according to the Astrophysical Institute of the Canaries. “The current velocity of the comet is high, around 150,000 kilometers per hour, which is considerably higher than the typical velocities of objects circling the sun,” Davide Farnocchia of the US space agency NASA reported in an announcement.


Der Komet ist den Analysen zufolge auf einer sogenannten Hyperbelbahn unterwegs, die ihn aus unserem System hinausführt - und eindeutig interstellarer Herkunft, wie die Internationale Astronomische Union (IAU) mitteilte. Sie ist auch für die Benennung und Kategorisierung von Himmelskörpern zuständig. Zu Ehren seines Entdeckers bekam der interstellare Schweifstern, der zunächst unter der Katalognummer C/2019 Q4 geführt worden war, von ihr die Bezeichnung 2I/Borisov, wobei der erste Teil des Namens darauf hinweist, dass es sich um das zweite interstellare Objekt handelt, das in unserem Sonnensystem entdeckt worden ist.

According to the International Astronomic Union (IAC) the comet is of distinctly interstellar origins, and is currently moving along a hyperbolic path which is leading it out of our system, as the International Astronomical Union (IAU) announced. The Union is also responsible for naming and categorizing celestial bodies. The interstellar comet, at first listed under the catalogue number C/2019 Q4 was given the designation 2I/Borisov in honor of the astronomer who discovered it, the first part of the name indicating that it was the second interstellar object discovered in our solar system.

According to the analyses, the comet is traveling on what is known as a hyperbolic trajectory, which leads it out of our system, and it is undoubtedly of interstellar origin, the International Astronomic Union (IAU) announced. The IAU is also responsible for naming and categorizing celestial objects. In honor of its discoverer, the interstellar comet received the name 2I/Borisov, after having initially been catalogued under the number C/2019 Q4. The first part of its name, 2I, indicates that it is the second interstellar object discovered in our Solar System.


Die Astronomen haben Glück: Im Gegensatz zu 1I/'Oumuamua wurde 2I/Borisov bereits im Anflug gesichtet. So bleiben den Forschern viele Monate für Untersuchungen. "Das Objekt wird Mitte Dezember die größte Helligkeit erreichen und dann noch bis April 2020 mit mittelgroßen Teleskopen zu sehen sein", erläuterte Farnocchia. "Danach wird es bis Oktober 2020 nur noch mit größeren, professionellen Teleskopen zu beobachten sein".

The astronomers are lucky: Unlike 1I/'Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov was sighted while approaching. The researchers had several months to study it. "The object will reach maximum brightness in December and will be visible through medium-sized telescopes until April 2020", explained Farnocchia. "After that, it will be possible to observe the comet with large professional telescopes until October 2020".

Astronomers are lucky: contrary to 1I/‘Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov was spotted during its approach. This gives astronomers several months to investigate. “The object will reach its brightest luminosity in mid-December and will be observable until April 2020 with mid-sized telescopes,” Farnocchia explained “After that, you will only be able to observe it until October 2020 with bigger, professional telescopes.”


Mehrere Observatorien haben den Besucher bereits ins Visier genommen. So bestimmte ein Team um Karen Meech von der Universität Hawaii, die bereits die Charakterisierung von 1I/'Oumuamua geleitet hatte, in einer ersten Untersuchung den Durchmesser des Himmelsobjekts auf 2 bis 16 Kilometer. Aufnahmen des Gemini-Observatoriums auf Hawaii zeigen einen deutlichen Schweif des Kometen.

Multiple observatories have already began observing the visiting comet. A team led by Karen Meech from the University of Hawaii, who had already led the description of 1I/'Oumuamua, determined in the first study the diameter of the celestial object to between 2 and 16 kilometers. Recorded images from the Gemini observatory in Hawaii clearly show the tail of the comet.

Several observatories already targeted the visitor. A team led by Karen Meech from the University of Hawaii, who already lead the characterization of 1I/'Oumuamua, determined that the diameter of the celestial object is between 2 and 16 kilometers. Images of the Gemini observatory on Hawaii showed the comet's distinct tail.


Forscherinnen und Forscher des astrophysikalischen Instituts der Kanaren (IAC) haben bereits ein erstes sogenanntes Spektrum von dem interstellaren Schweifstern gewonnen, das eine Art Fingerabdruck seiner chemischen Zusammensetzung bietet. "Das Spektrum dieses Objekts ähnelt solchen von Kometen unseres Sonnensystems, und das weist darauf hin, das ihre Zusammensetzung ähnlich sein muss", berichtete IAC-Forscherin Julia de León. Diese Beobachtung lege nahe, dass sich Kometen in anderen Sonnensystemen durch ähnliche Prozesse formen könnten wie in unserem, ergänzte de Leóns Kollege Javier Licandro.

Researchers at the Canary Islands Astrophysical Institute (IAC) have already garnered a first so-called spectrum of the interstellar comet, which is similar to a fingerprint of its chemical composition. "This object´s spectrum is similar to the ones in our solar system and this indicates that its composition must be similar", reports the IAC researcher Julia de León. This observation suggests that comets in other solar systems could be formed through similar processes as ours, de León's colleague Javier Licandro added.

Researchers at the Astrophysical Institute of the Canaries (IAC) have already obtained a first spectrum from the interstellar comet, which is like a fingerprint of its chemical components. “The spectrum of this object is similar to that of comets in our system – which suggests a similar composition,” IAC researcher Julia de León reported. This observation indicates that comets in our and in other solar systems are formed in similar processes, de León's colleague Javier Licandro added.


Die Entdeckung von gleich zwei interstellaren Besuchern innerhalb von nur zwei Jahren deutet nach Einschätzung der IAU darauf hin, dass diese Objekte einen neuen Weg zur Erforschung bestimmter Prozesse in anderen Sonnensystemen eröffnen könnten. Wie häufig solche Stippvisiten sind, ist allerdings noch schwer abzuschätzen. Einen der nächsten interstellaren Besucher könnte möglicherweise eine geplante Satellitenmission der europäischen Raumfahrtagentur Esa abfangen.

According to the IAU, the discovery of two interstellar comets in just two years suggests that these objects could provide a new way of researching certain processes in other solar systems. However, it is still difficult to estimate how frequent these comet visits may be. One of the next interstellar comets could be intercepted by a planned satellite mission by the European Space Agency Esa.

According to the IAU, the discovery of two interstellar visitors within just two years suggests that these objects could open up a new way of researching specific processes in other solar systems. However, it is still difficult to estimate how often such visits will occur. One of the next interstellar visitors could possibly be intercepted by a planned satellite mission of the European Space Agency ESA.


Die Agentur will bis 2028 auf einer Warteposition in 1,5 Millionen Kilometern Entfernung von der Erde die dreiteilige Raumsonde "Comet Interceptor" (deutsch etwa Kometen-Abfangjäger) stationieren. Sie soll laut Esa-Wissenschaftsdirektor Günther Hasinger entweder auf einen noch unberührten, frischen Kometen aus unserem eigenen Sonnensystem lauern, oder auf einen interstellaren Besucher wie 1I/'Oumuamua.

The agency wants to place a three-part space probe, the "Comet Interceptor" at a waiting position at a distance of 1.5 million kilometers from Earth by 2028. According to science director at ESA Günther Hasinger, the probe should either intercept an new, intact comet from our own solar system or an interstellar object such as 1I/'Oumuamua.

By 2028, the agency plans to station a three-part space probe called “Comet Interceptor” in a waiting position 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth. It will either be looking out for an untouched, new comet from our own solar system, or for an interstellar visitor like 1I/'Oumuamua.


Erste Landung auf Pekings neuem Mega-Airport Daxing

First airplane landing on Beijing's new mega-airport Daxing

First Landing on Beijing's New Mega-Airport Daxing


Pünktlich vor dem 70. Geburtstag der Volksrepublik ist es soweit: Auf dem neuen Mega-Airport im Süden der chinesischen hauptstadt ist eine erste Passagiermaschine der China United Airlines gelandet, eine besondere Ehre für Kapitän und Crew.

Just before the 70th birthday of the People´s Republic: China United Airlines' first passenger aircraft has landed at the new mega-airport in the south of the Chinese capital, which was a special honor for the captain and his crew.

Just in time for the 70th anniversary of the People’s Republic: the first passenger plane of China United Airlines landed at the new mega-airport to the south of the Chinese capital, a special honor for captain and crew.


Bis 2022 sollen auf dem neuen Flughafen rund 45 Millionen Fluggäste jährlich abgefertigt werden, 2025 sollen es dann bereits 72 Millionen sein. Chinas Präsident Xi Jinping persönlich verkündete die Eröffnung des 450 Milliarden teuren Projekts. Das jüngste Prestigeprojekt Chinas wird wegen seiner sechsarmigen Gebäudestruktur auch "Seestern" genannt.

Around 45 million passengers are expected to use the airport by 2022, and by 2025 the number should rise to 72 million. President Xi Jinping personally announced the opening of the 450 billion euro project. China´s latest prestige project is also called the "starfish" due to its building structure.

By 2022, around 45 million passengers are expected to be handled at the new airport, and by 2025, the figure should reach 72 million. China's President Xi Jinping personally announced the opening of the 450 billion project. China's latest prestige project is also called “starfish”, due to its six-armed building design.


Der Komplex verfügt über vier Start- und Landebahnen, die später auf sieben erweitert werden sollen und ist mit dem weltweit größten automatischen Flugverkehrsmanagementsystem ausgestattet. Eine neue U-neue U-Bahn transportiert Passagiere in nur 20 Minuten in die Innenstadt Pekings.

The complex has four runways to date, which will later be expanded to seven, and is equipped with the world's largest automatic air traffic management system. A new subway will be used to transport passengers from the airport to the Beijing city center in only 20 minutes.

The complex has four runways for arrival and departure, with plans to extend the number to seven, and is equipped with the world’s largest automatic air traffic management system. A new subway transports passengers to downtown Beijing in just 20 minutes.


Schon während des Baus hatten die Chinesen mehrfach verlauten lassen, dass Berlin von Peking lernen könne. Die Eröffnung des seit 2006 im Bau befindlichen - und wesentlich kleineren - Hauptstadtflughafens in Deutschland wurde bislang immer wieder verschoben. In Peking dagegen landete schon nach vier Jahren eine erste Passagier-Maschine.

During construction, the Chinese stated repeatedly that Berlin could learn from Beijing. The opening of the much smaller Berlin airport, which has been under construction since 2006, has repeatedly been postponed. Conversely, the first passenger airplane landed in Beijing after only four years.

Even during construction, the Chinese had repeatedly stated that Berlin could learn from Beijing. The opening of the much smaller airport in Germany's capital city, which has been under construction since 2006, has been postponed repeatedly. Whereas in Beijing, the first passenger plane was able to land after only four years.


Neues Überschallflugzeug soll 2030 fliegen: In viereinhalb Stunden von London nach Sydney

New Supersonic Aircraft to fly in 2030: Four and a half hours from London to Sydney

New Supersonic Aircraft to Fly by 2030: From London to Sydney in Four and a Half Hours


Von London nach Sydney in nur viereinhalb Stunden - davon träumt die britische Raumfahrtagentur UK Space Agency. Möglich machen soll diesen, für die 2030er Jahre angepeilten Flug im Überschalltempo ein spezieller Antrieb (Synergetic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine, Sabre), den das Unternehmen Reaction Engines aus Oxfordshire entwickelt, zitierte der US-Sender CNN die Agentur. "Das ist die Technologie, die das definitiv bewerkstelligen könnte", sagte Agenturchef Graham Turnock dem Sender. "Wir sprechen von den 2030er Jahren für die Inbetriebnahme, und die Arbeit ist schon sehr fortgeschritten".

Flying from London to Sydney in only four and a half hours, is what the British UK Space Agency is dreaming of. What will facilitate supersonic flying in the 2030's is a special drive (Synergetic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine, Sabre), which the Reaction Engines company from Oxfordshire will develop, American broadcaster CNN quoted the agency as having said. "That is the technology that could definitely do that," Agency director Graham Turnock told the broadcasting house. "We are talking about the 2030's for the launch, the work is already far advanced."

From London to Sydney in no more than four and a half hours – this is the dream of the United Kingdom Space Agency. The US broadcaster CNN quoted the agency as saying that a special propulsion system (Synergetic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine, SABRE), being developed by the company Reaction Engines from Oxfordshire, will make this supersonic flight, planned for 2030, possible. “This is technology that could definitely deliver that,” agency director Graham Turnock told CNN. “We're talking the 2030s for operational service, and the work is already very far advanced.”


Um das Projekt voranzutreiben, will die britische Raumfahrtagentur mit der australischen enger zusammenarbeiten. Ein Flug von der britischen Hauptstadt zur australischen Metropole dauert derzeit etwa 20 Stunden. Als bisher einziges Überschallflugzeug für Passagierbeförderung hatte die Concorde von 1976 bis zur Einstellung ihres Betriebs 2003 die Strecke New York-Paris abgedeckt und dafür drei bis dreieinhalb Stunden gebraucht. Im Jahr 2000 kam es zu einem Unfall beim Start einer Concorde auf dem Pariser Flughafen Charles de Gaulle, bei dem alle 109 Insassen ums Leben kamen. Im vergangenen Jahr gab der US-amerikanische Flugzeugbauer Lockheed Martin Pläne bekannt, gemeinsam mit der US-Raumfahrtbehörde Nasa ein Überschallflugzeug zu entwickeln, das "X-Plane". Auch Virgin Galactic hat solche Entwicklungen im Programm.

In order to drive the project forward, the British space agency wants to work closer with the Australian one. A flight from the British capital to the Australian metropolis currently takes about 20 hours. As the only supersonic aircraft for passenger transportation so far, Concord had been covering the distance between New York and Paris from 1976 to 2003, taking three to three and a half hours. In the year 2000, at the Paris Charles de Gaulle airport, there was an accident when starting a Concorde where all 109 passengers lost their lives. In the past year, the US American aircraft builder Lockheed Martin announced plans to develop a supersonic aircraft together with the US space authority Nasa, namely the ‘X-Plane.' Virgin Galactic also has these kinds of developments in its program.

To drive the project forward, the United Kingdom Space Agency intends to work together more closely with its Australian counterpart. A flight from the British capital to the Australian metropolis currently takes about 20 hours. As the only supersonic aircraft for transporting passengers, the Concorde covered the route New York-Paris, which took three to three and a half hours, from 1976 until 2003, when it ceased operation. In the year 2000, an accident occurred at take-off at the Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris. All 109 passengers died. Last year, the US aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin revealed plans that they have partnered with the US space agency NASA to develop a supersonic aircraft, the “X-Plane”. Virgin Galactic is also developing a similar aircraft.


"Sabre wird die Welt kleiner machen mit seinem Hochgeschwindigkeits-Punkt-zu-Punkt-Transport", schreibt Reaction Engines unter anderem auf seiner Homepage. Der Sabre-Antrieb könnte für effizientes Reisen genutzt werden mit einer Geschwindigkeit von Mach 5 - das bedeutet fünfmal so schnell wie der Schall. Zudem seien solche Flugzeuge auch außerhalb der Erdatmosphäre einsetzbar und ermöglichten damit die "nächste Generation wahrhaft wiederverwendbarer Rahmfahrtgeräte".

"Sabre will make the world smaller with its high-speed point to point transport," Reaction Engines has written on its home page, amongst other things. The Sabre drive could be used for efficient travel with a speed of Mach 5—that signifies five times the speed of light. In addition, such aircraft can also be used outside the earth's atmosphere and thus enable the "next generation of authentically reusable space devices."

Reaction Engines writes on its homepage “SABRE will make the world smaller through high-speed point-to-point transport.” The SABRE engine could be used for efficient travel at Mach 5 – five times the speed of sound. Furthermore, such aircraft could also operate outside the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the “next generation of truly reusable space launch vehicles.”


Aufruhr in Washington: Trump will anonyme Tippgeber in Ukraine-Affäre aufspüren

Unrest in Washington: Trump wants to track down anonymous whistleblowers in the Ukraine scandal

Turmoil in Washington: Trump Wants to Track Down Anonymous Whistle-Blower in Ukraine Affair


In der Ukraine-Affäre um möglichen Machtmissbrauch des US-Präsidenten will Donald Trump mögliche undichte Stellen im Weißen Haus aufspüren.

Donald Trump wants to track down possible leaks in the White House in connection with the Ukraine scandal about the possible abuse of power.

In the Ukraine affair about the possible abuse of power by the US President, Donald Trump wants to track down possible leaks in the White House.


"Ich will wissen, wer dem Whistleblower die Informationen gegeben hat", sagte Trump am Donnerstag vor Mitarbeitern der US-Gesandtschaft bei den Vereinten Nationen in New York. Die betroffene Person sei fast "ein Spion" und mit solchen sei man in der Vergangenheit "ein bisschen anders" umgegangen als heute.

"I want to know who provided the whistleblower with the information", said Trump on Thursday to the staff members of the US Embassy in the United Nations in New York. The person concerned was practically "a spy" and spies were dealt with "somewhat differently" in the past.

“I want to know who provided information to the whistle-blower,” Trump told staff members of the United States Mission at the United Nations in New York on Thursday. The person in question is close to “a spy” and those have been dealt with in the past “a little bit differently” than today.


Das wurde als Einschüchterungsversuch gegen Tippgeber gewertet. Die Veranstaltung war eigentlich nicht öffentlich. Mehrere US-Medien verbreiteten am Freitag jedoch Audiomitschnitte von der Ansprache. Demokraten reagierten empört auf die Aussage des Präsidenten.

This was considered an attempt to intimidate whistleblowers. However, the event was not open to the public. However, several US media broadcast audio recordings of the speech on Friday. Democrats reacted with indignation to the president's statement.

This was considered an attempt at intimidating the whistle-blower. Technically speaking, the event was not public, but several US media circulated audio recordings of the speech on Friday. The Democrats reacted with outrage to the statement of the president.


Die Demokraten im US-Repräsentantenhaus hatten am Dienstag Vorbereitungen für ein Amtsenthebungsverfahren gegen Trump angekündigt. Ihre Vorwürfe stützen sich vor allem auf die schriftliche Beschwerde eines anonymen Geheimdienstmitarbeiters, der schwere Anschuldigungen gegen Trump und dessen Regierungszentrale erhebt. Auf großen öffentlichen Druck hin waren die Schilderungen des Hinweisgebers am Donnerstag publik gemacht worden.

The Democrats in the US House of Representatives announced preparations for impeachment proceedings against Trump on Tuesday. Their accusations are based primarily on a written complaint by an anonymous secret service agent who raised serious allegations against Trump and his government office. Following intense public pressure, the whistleblower's statements were made public on Thursday.

The Democrats in the US House of Representatives had announced on Tuesday that they were preparing impeachment proceedings against Trump. Their accusations are based in particular on the written complaint of an anonymous secret intelligence agent, who is making serious charges against Trump and his government headquarters. The whistle-blower's account had been made public on Thursday following strong public pressure.


Im Rahmen seiner Arbeit will der Whistleblower Informationen mehrerer Regierungsmitarbeiter erhalten haben, wonach der US-Präsident "die Macht seines Amtes nutzt", um zu erreichen, dass sich ein anderes Land zu seinen Gunsten in die US-Wahl 2020 einmischt.

As part of his statement, the whistleblower alleges to have received information from several government officials that the US president is "using the power of his office" to get another country to interfere in his favor in the 2020 US election.

As part of his job, the whistle-blower claims to have received information from several government employees, according to which the US president “is using the power of his office” to get another country to intervene in his favor in the 2020 US elections.


Im Zentrum der Vorwürfe steht ein umstrittenes Telefonat zwischen Trump und dem ukrainischen Präsidenten Wolodymyr Selenskyj Ende Juli, in dem Trump seinen Amtskollegen zu Ermittlungen ermunterte, die seinem politischen Rivalen Joe Biden schaden könnten. Dabei geht es um frühere Geschäfte von Bidens Sohn Hunter in der Ukraine und angebliche Bemühungen, seinen Sprössling vor der ukrainischen Justiz zu schützen. Biden liegt im Rennen um die demokratische Präsidentschaftskandidatur für die Wahl 2020 vorne.

At the core of the accusations is a controversial telephone conversation between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the end of July, in which Trump encouraged his colleague to conduct investigations that could harm his political rival Joe Biden. This is about Hunter Biden´s earlier business ventures in Ukraine and Joe Biden´s alleged attempt to protect his son against Ukrainian justice. Biden is leading the race for the democratic presidential candidacy for the 2020 election.

At the center of the accusations is a controversial telephone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in late July, in which Trump encouraged his colleague to conduct investigations that could damage his political rival Joe Biden. These involve past business dealings by Biden’s son Hunter in the Ukraine and alleged efforts to protect his offspring from Ukrainian justice. Biden is ahead in the race for the democratic presidential primaries in the 2020 election.


Der Whistleblower beschuldigte das Weiße Haus mit Blick auf das Ukraine-Telefonat auch der Vertuschung: Führende Regierungsmitarbeiter hätten sich bemüht, die genaue Wortlautfassung des Gesprächs unter der Decke zu halten. Wie üblich sei ein elektronisches Wortlaut-Protokoll angefertigt worden. Dies sei nach dem Gespräch auf Anweisung von Juristen aus dem Weißen Haus aber aus einer dafür gewöhnlich vorgesehenen Datenbank entfernt und stattdessen in einem besonders geschützten System gespeichert worden. Bislang wurde nur ein grobes Gesprächsprotokoll veröffentlicht.

The whistleblower also accused the White House of a cover-up with regard to the telephone call to Ukraine: Leading government officials had attempted to keep the exact contents of the conversation concealed. As usual, an electronic text record was prepared. However, this record was removed from the database following the instructions of White House Lawyers after the interview and stored in a specially protected system instead. Only the rough draft of the conversation was released to date.

The whistle-blower also accused the White House of cover-ups with regard to the Ukraine phone call. Leading government officials had tried to keep the exact wording of the conversation secret. As usual, an electronic transcript had been made. On instruction from White House lawyers, after the conversation, the transcript was removed from the database usually provided for this purpose and was instead stored in a specially protected system. So far, only a rough transcript of the conversation has been published.


Die Identität des Hinweisgebers ist nicht öffentlich bekannt. Die "New York Times" berichtete, es solle sich um einen Mitarbeiter des Auslandsgeheimdiensts CIA handeln.

The whistleblower´s identity was not made public. The New York Times reported that the person concerned is an employee of the CIA Foreign Intelligence Agency.

The identity of the whistle-blower is not publicly known. The “New York Times” reported that it was a CIA foreign intelligence officer.


Trump stellte am Freitag erneut die Glaubwürdigkeit der Quelle in Frage. In einer Serie von Tweets zu dem Thema schrieb der Präsident unter anderem, der "sogenannte Whistleblower" habe Informationen aus zweiter Hand verbreitet, die sich als unzutreffend herausgestellt hätten. Daher gebe es vielleicht gar keine Tippgeber oder Spione.

On Friday, Trump questioned the credibility of the source. In a series of tweets, the President wrote, among other things, that the "so-called whistleblower" had received second-hand information which turned out to be untrue. Therefore, there were likely no whistleblowers or spies.

Trump again questioned the credibility of the source on Friday. In a series of tweets on the topic, the president wrote, among other things, that the “so-called whistle-blower” had distributed second-hand information which had been proven incorrect. Therefore, there could not even be any whistle-blower or spy at all.


Wie Trump sich in New York über jene äußerte, die dem Whistleblower Informationen zugespielt haben sollen, löste aber Empörung aus. Die Vorsitzende des US-Repräsentantenhauses, Nancy Pelosi, reagierte beunruhigt und beklagte, Trumps Aussage unterlaufe einmal mehr die Integrität der Regierung.

However, the way Trump spoke about those who are said to have passed the information on to the whistleblower caused outrage. Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker in the House of Representatives was unsettled and said that Trump´s statement once again undermined government integrity.

But the way Trump spoke in New York about the whistle-blower's sources caused outrage. The Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, was concerned and complained that Trump's statement was once again undermining the integrity of the government.


Im Repräsentantenhaus laufen bereits seit Monaten in verschiedenen Ausschüssen diverse Untersuchungen gegen Trump und dessen Umfeld. Angesichts der Ukraine-Vorwürfe treiben die Demokraten nun Ermittlungen mit neuer Wucht voran, um ein mögliches Amtsenthebungsverfahren gegen Trump in Gang zu setzen.

Various committees in the House of Representatives have been conducting various investigations against Trump and his associates for months. In light of the Ukraine allegations, the Democrats are pursuing investigations with renewed momentum to launch a possible impeachment trial against Trump.

In the House of Representatives, several investigations against Trump and his associates have been underway for months in various committees. In light of the Ukraine accusations, the Democrats are now driving investigations forward with renewed force in order to start a possible impeachment trial against Trump.


"Der Whistleblower hat uns einen Fahrplan für unsere Untersuchung gegeben", sagte der Chef des Geheimdienstausschusses im Repräsentantenhaus, Adam Schiff. Trump griff Schiff scharf an, warf ihm eine falsche Darstellung der Dinge vor und forderte erneut den Rücktritt des Ausschussvorsitzenden. Trump beschimpft Schiff regelmäßig und hatte bereits vor Monaten dessen Rückzug verlangt.

"The whistleblower has given us a roadmap for the investigation ", said Adam Schiff, the Head of the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee. Trump sharply criticized Schiff, accusing him of misrepresentation and again demanded that the Committee Chairman resign. Trump often criticized Schiff and had been demanding his resignation for months.

“The whistle-blower has given us a road map for our investigations,” the chair of the Select Committee on Intelligence in the House of Representative Adam Schiff said. Trump attacked Schiff sharply, accused him of a false depiction of facts and again demanded the resignation of the committee chair. Trump insults Schiff frequently and demanded his resignation months ago.


Mehr als 300 frühere US-Regierungsmitarbeiter aus dem Sicherheits- und außenpolitischen Bereich, die mehrheitlich unter demokratischen, aber auch unter republikanischen Präsidenten tätig waren, stellten sich in einer am Freitag veröffentlichten Erklärung hinter die von den Demokraten eingeleitete Untersuchung für ein mögliches Amtsenthebungsverfahren. Sollten sich die Vorwürfe bewahrheiten, wäre das "ein skrupelloser Machtmissbrauch" durch Trump, hieß es darin.

In a statement published on Friday, more than 300 former US government employees from security and foreign policy domains, the majority of whom worked under Democratic presidents as well as a few Republican presidents, supported the investigation initiated by the Democrats for a possible impeachment trial. In the statement, it was claimed that, should the accusations prove to be true, it would mean "an unscrupulous abuse of power" by Trump.

In a statement released on Friday, more than 300 former US government officials from the security and foreign policy sectors, most of whom worked under Democratic but also under Republican presidents, backed the investigation launched by the Democrats for possible impeachment proceedings. Should the accusations prove to be true, this would be “an unscrupulous abuse of power” by Trump, the statement said.


Für das weitere Prozedere gibt es keinen genauen Zeitplan. Mit ihrer Mehrheit im Repräsentantenhaus könnten die Demokraten ein sogenanntes Impeachment-Verfahren zwar anstrengen. Die Entscheidung über eine tatsächliche Amtsenthebung fiele aber im Senat, wo Trumps Republikaner die Mehrheit haben. Die Aussichten auf Erfolg eines solchen Verfahrens sind daher gering. Bisher wurde noch kein US-Präsident durch ein Impeachment-Verfahren des Amtes enthoben.

There is no exact plan for further proceedings. The Democrats could initiate impeachment proceedings due to holding the majority in the House of Representatives. However, the decision regarding an actual removal from office would be made in the Senate, where Trump's Republicans hold the majority. Therefore, such a procedure has low chances of success. To date, no US President has been removed from office through an impeachment procedure.

There is no exact schedule for further procedure. With their majority in the House of Representatives, the Democrats could indeed initiate what is known as impeachment proceedings. But the decision for the actual removal from office is made in the Senate, where Trumps Republicans constitute the majority. The prospects for success of such a procedure are therefore small. So far, no US president has been removed from office through an impeachment procedure.


VW-Betriebsrat: Arbeitsplätze werden "schleichend" abgebaut

VW Works Council Jobs being cut "stealthily"

VW Works Council: Jobs to be Cut "Gradually"


Die Pläne der Marke VW, in der Produktion die Kosten weiter zu senken, könnten zu Lasten der Fertigung in Deutschland und Europa gehen. Diese Sorge treibt den Betriebsrat des Autobauers um. Die Marke will ihre jährlichen Fabrikkosten von zehn Milliarden Euro bis 2023 um zwei Milliarden Euro senken. Davon sollen 500 Millionen Euro schon in diesem Jahr eingespart werden.

Volkswagen's plans to further reduce production costs could affect production in Germany and Europe. This is cause for concern for the car manufacturer's works council. The firm wants to cut its annual factory costs of EUR 10 billion by EUR 2 billion by 2023. EUR 500 million of this figure is to be saved this year.

VW's plans to further reduce production costs could be at the expense of manufacturing in Germany and Europe. This is causing concern for the car manufacturer's works council. The brand wants to reduce its annual factory costs of 10 billion euros by 2 billion euros by 2023. 500 million euros should already be saved this year.


Ein Schlüssel dafür sind die Personalkosten. Der 2016 zwischen Unternehmen und Betriebsrat verhandelte "Zukunftspakt" sieht bis 2020 bereits den Abbau von 14.000 Arbeitsplätzen allein in Deutschland vor. Grundsätzlich gilt: Ein Arbeitsplatz kann beim Autobauer nur dann abgebaut werden, wenn quasi bewiesen wird, dass die damit verbundenen Tätigkeiten nicht mehr erforderlich sind. Zudem gilt eine Beschäftigungssicherung bis 2029.

Personnel costs are one approach. The "future package" negotiated between the company and the works council in 2016 calls for the abolition of 14,000 jobs in Germany alone by 2020. Essentially, a job with the car manufacturer can be cut only if there is some form of evidence that the activities associated with the job are no longer required. In addition, an employment guarantee is in force until 2029.

A key to this are staff costs. The "future pact" negotiated between company and works council in 2016 foresees the loss of 14,000 jobs just in Germany by 2020. Basically, the rule is that a job can only be cut at the car manufacturer when it is effectively proven that it is no longer needed. Furthermore, a job guarantee is in effect until 2029.


Wie unsere Zeitung nun aus Betriebsratskreisen erfuhr, werden allerdings Arbeitsplätze in der Produktion, die eigentlich nicht zur Disposition stünden, "schleichend" über einen anderen Weg abgebaut - also am offiziellen Kurs vorbei. So würden frei werdende reguläre Stellen häufig nicht wiederbesetzt.

People associated with the works council told our newspaper that production jobs should not in fact be affected will be cut "stealthily" in another way—circumventing the official policy. Consequently, regular positions that become vacant are often not re-filled.

As our newspaper learned from sources in the works council, jobs in production which were actually not to be cut will be "gradually" disposed of via another way - avoiding the official path. Allegedly, such regular jobs vacancies are often no longer filled.


Der Betriebsrat habe in diesen Fällen keine Möglichkeit, die Wiederbesetzung zu erzwingen. Mittlerweile fehle an vielen Stellen Personal, die Arbeitsverdichtung nehme zu, die Sorgen vor einem allmählichen Ausbluten der Fahrzeugwerke würden größer. Damit wachse auch die Befürchtung, dass die Fahrzeug-Produktion nach und nach aus Deutschland und Europa abgezogen werden könnte, weil sie in anderen Teilen der Welt günstiger ist. Von VW hieß es dazu nur: "Eine Anpassung des Beschäftigungsvolumens erfolgt wie vereinbart sozialverträglich entlang der demografischen Kurve".

In such cases, the works council has no way of enforcing the refilling of those posts. Meanwhile, there are personnel shortages in many places, workloads are increasing, and concerns are growing that the car plant will gradually hemorrhage. There are also increasing fears that car production might gradually shift away from Germany and Austria because it is cheaper in other parts of the world. VW merely states that, "as agreed in social contracts, the volume of employment will be adjusted along the demographic curve".

The works council has no opportunity in these cases to force positions to be refilled. In the meantime staff are missing on many fronts, workloads are increasing, and concerns are growing about automobile plants being gradually bled dry. This increases concerns that automobile production will be further withdrawn from Germany and Europe, as it is cheaper to produce in other parts of the world. VW has merely stated that "As agreed upon, adjustments to levels of employment will occur in line with social acceptability along the demographic curve".


Die Marke VW will die Produktion weltweit noch mehr standardisieren und neue Projekte zentral steuern. Auch dadurch sollen Kosten gesenkt und zudem Entscheidungen beschleunigt werden - dahinter steht das Ziel, die Produktivität und damit die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit zu erhöhen. Produktionsvorstand Andreas Tostmann sagte auf einer Manager-Konferenz in Berlin: "Gerade in unsicheren Zeiten vom Brexit bis zum drohenden Handelskrieg zwischen den USA und China sind wir gut beraten, uns krisenfest zu machen".

VW wants to standardize worldwide production even more and control new projects centrally. This should also reduce costs and accelerate decision-making—the aim behind this is to boost productivity and hence competitiveness. At a manager conference in Berlin, Director of Production Andreas Tostmann said: "We are well advised to make ourselves crisis-resistant particularly in uncertain times with Brexit and an imminent trade war between the United States and China".

The VW brand wants to further standardize production worldwide and steer new projects centrally. This should help lower costs and also accelerate the decision making process, with an aim towards raising productivity and therefore competitiveness. Head of Production Andreas Tostmann said at a manager conference in Berlin: "In particular in times of uncertainty from Brexit, to a potential trade war between the USA and China, we are well advised to make ourselves crisis-proof".


Auf diesem Weg gebe es bereits Erfolge: So würden zum Beispiel in diesem Jahr erstmals seit 2013 die Produktionskosten je Fahrzeug im Vergleich zum Vorjahr sinken. Vor Journalisten sagte Tostmann, dass sich die Produktionszeit für den Golf 8, der am 24. Oktober in Wolfsburg vorgestellt werden soll, um 1,1 Stunden verkürze. Exakte Zahlen zur Produktionsdauer nennt VW nicht, nach Informationen unserer Zeitung beträgt sie beim Golf 7 rund

Successes have already been achieved along this path: This year, for example, production costs per vehicle have fallen relative to the previous year for the first time since 2013. Tostmann told reporters that the production time for the Golf 8, to be rolled out in Wolfsburg on October 24, has been reduced by 1.1 hours. VW does not provide exact figures on the length of production, but according to information from our newspaper, the time required to manufacture a Golf 7 is around

This way forward has already borne fruit. For example, this year saw the first decrease in production costs per vehicle compared to the previous year since 2013. Tostmann announced in front of journalists that the production costs for the Golf 8 to be unveiled in Wolfsburg on October 24 will be reduced by 1.1 hours. Precise figures relating to production time were not given by VW; our newspaper's information suggests for the Golf 7 around


In unserer Region ist das Stammwerk Wolfsburg die einzige VW-Fabrik, in der Fahrzeuge produziert werden. Die Werke Braunschweig und Salzgitter fertigen Komponenten. Für Wolfsburg gilt VW-intern die Faustregel, dass dort jährlich 800.000 Autos gebaut werden müssen, damit das Werk zufriedenstellend profitabel ist. 2018 lag die Auslastung in Wolfsburg aber bei nur rund 700.000 Fahrzeugen - bedingt durch die sinkende Diesel-Nachfrage und die Probleme bei der Umstellung auf das neue Verbrauchs- und Abgas-Prüfverfahren WLTP.

In our region, the main plant at Wolfsburg is the only VW site where cars are made. The plants in Braunschweig and Salzgitter produce parts. An internal VW rule of thumb applies to Wolfsburg whereby 800,000 cars must be manufactured there each year so that the plant remains sufficiently profitable. However, production capacity in Wolfsburg was only about 700,000 vehicles in 2018 due to the falling demand for diesel and difficulties with conversion to the new WLTP fuel consumption and emission testing procedure.

In our region, the main Wolfsburg plant is the only VW plant which produces automobiles. The plants at Braunschweig and Salzgitter manufacture components. For Wolfsburg there is a rule of thumb at VW that annually 800,000 automobiles are required to be assembled for the plant to achieve a satisfactory level of profitability. The year 2018 however saw a level at Wolfsburg of only around 700,000 vehicles - a result of falling demand for diesel and problems with moving over to WLTP, the new test procedure for fuel consumption and exhaust.


Wie Produktionsvorstand Tostmann bereits im vergangenen Jahr angekündigt hat, sollen in Wolfsburg "perspektivisch" allerdings eine Million Autos vom Band rollen. Das soll die Bündelung der Golf-Produktion im Stammwerk möglich machen - weil das Werk Zwickau durch die Umrüstung zum Standort für die E-Auto-Produktion die Golf-Fertigung abgibt.

Tostmann announced last year that one million cars should roll off the assembly line in Wolfsburg "in the future." That should allow Golf production to be focused in the main factory, as the Zwickau plant is being converted to electric car manufacture and will discontinue the manufacture of Golfs.

As head of production Tostmann had already announced the previous year, Wolfsburg should "expect" one million automobiles coming off the production line in the long term. With the concentration of Golf production at the main plant, this should be possible, as the Zwickau plant will lose its Golf assembly due to the location's switch to electric car production.


Außerdem werden in Wolfsburg die SUV Tiguan und Tarraco (Seat) produziert. Allerdings entwickelten sich die Verkaufszahlen von Golf und Tiguan zuletzt rückläufig. Daher ruhen die Erwartungen nun auf dem Golf 8. Er soll trotz aller Anstrengungen zum Aufbau der E-Mobilität vorerst das Brot-und-Butter-Auto der Wolfsburger bleiben.

The SUV Tiguan and Tarraco (Seat) are also made in Wolfsburg, but sales of the Golf and Tiguan have been falling lately. So expectations now rest on the Golf 8. Despite all efforts to develop e-mobility, the Golf 8 is to remain the primary product of Wolfsburg for the moment.

Further, the SUVs Tiguan and Tarraco (Seat) will be produced in Wolfsburg. However, sales of Golfs and Tiguans have recently been decreasing. Expectations are thus resting on the Golf 8. Despite all efforts to develop e-mobility, it will for the time being remain Wolfsburg's bread and butter automobile.


Mit Voodoo zur Prostitution gezwungen: Menschenhändler verurteilt

Forced into prostitution by use of voodoo: Convicted human traffickers

Forced Into Prostitution With Voodoo: Human Traffickers Sentenced


Junge Frauen aus Nigeria sind mit Schwüren belegt, ins Ruhrgebiet geschleust und zur Prostitution gezwungen worden. Sechs mutmaßliche Menschenhändler müssen dafür ins Gefängnis.

Young women from Nigeria are made to take oaths, trafficked into the Ruhr area and forced them into prostitution work. Six presumed human traffickers have to go to prison.

Young women from Nigeria were compelled to take ritual oaths, smuggled into the Ruhr areas and forced into prostitution. Because of this, six suspected human traffickers have been sent to prison.


Sechs mutmaßliche Menschenhändler aus Nigeria sind am Freitag in Bochum zu Bewährungs- und Haftstrafen von bis zu acht Jahren und drei Monaten verurteilt worden. Die Angeklagten hatten junge Frauen aus Nigeria ins Ruhrgebiet geschleust und zur Prostitution gezwungen. Um ihren Gehorsam zu erzwingen, hatten die ausreisewilligen Nigerianerinnen noch in der Heimat vor einem Voodoo-Priester einen rituellen Schwur ablegen müssen.

On Friday in Bochum six presumed human traffickers from Nigeria were convicted to parole and prison terms of up to eight years and three months. The accused had smuggled young women from Nigeria into the Ruhr area and forced them into prostitution. In order to make them obey, the Nigerian women willing to leave their country had to take a ritual oaths with a voodoo priest in their homeland first.

Six suspected human traffickers from Nigeria have been sentenced on Friday in Bochum to suspended sentences and prison sentences of up to eight years and three months. The accused had smuggled young women from Nigeria into the Ruhr area and forced them into prostitution. To compel them to obedience, the would-be emigrant Nigerian women had to take a ritual oath in front of a voodoo priest in their home country.


Die Opfer waren zwischen 17 und 22 Jahre alt. Sie wurden mit Hilfe von libyschen Schleusern in Schlauchbooten über das Mittelmeer gebracht. Der Traum von einer besseren Zukunft erfüllte sich jedoch nicht. In Deutschland angekommen, wurden sie auf verschiedene Bordelle verteilt, um die angeblichen Schleuserkosten von durchschnittlich 25 000 Euro abzuarbeiten. Der Lohn wurde ihnen deshalb komplett abgenommen.

The victims were aged between 17 and 22 years old. They were brought across the Mediterranean Sea with the help of Libyan smugglers in inflatable boats. However, their dream of a better future did not come true. Once arrived in Germany, they were distributed to various brothels in order to work off the supposed trafficking costs of an average of 25,000 Euro. Their wage was therefore completely reduced.

The victims were between 17 and 21 years old. With the help of Libyan traffickers, they were brought across the Mediterranean to Europe in inflatable boats. However, their dream of a better future remained unfulfilled. Upon arriving in Germany, they were distributed among various brothels to work off the supposed trafficker costs of around 25,000 euros. Their entire wages were taken away from them.


Die Angeklagten - vier Männer und zwei Frauen - hatten das Einschleusen und die anschließende Verteilung der jungen Nigerianerinnen auf Bordelle im Prozess zugegeben. "Die Arbeit machte den Frauen körperlich und psychisch schwer zu schaffen", sagte Richterin Isabel Hoffmann bei der Urteilsverkündung. "Einige waren richtig angewidert".

The accused, four men and two women, had admitted the trafficking and the subsequent distribution of the young Nigerians to brothels in court. "The work was physically and emotionally difficult to bear," Judge Isabel Hoffmann during the sentencing. "Some of them were really disgusted."

The defendants – four men and two women – had admitted during the trial that they had smuggled in the young Nigerians and subsequently distributed them among brothels. “The work was hard on the women, both physically and psychologically,” said Judge Isabel Hoffmann when sentencing. “Some of them were thoroughly disgusted.”


Die Urteile lauten auf gewerbs- und bandenmäßiges Einschleusen von Ausländern, Menschenhandel, Zuhälterei und schwere Zwangsprostitution.

The judgements are for commercial and gang-based trafficking of foreigners, human trafficking, pimping and severe coerced prostitution.

The defendants were convicted for commercial and gang smuggling of foreigners, human trafficking, procurement and aggravated forced prostitution.


UFO calls for negotiations with Lufthansa


FIm Dauerstreit mit dem Lufthansa-Konzern hat die Flugbegleitergewerkschaft Ufo erneut mit Streiks gedroht.

As the dispute with the Lufthansa Group goes on, the air steward union UFO has again threatened strikes.

During its ongoing dispute with the Lufthansa Corporation the Union for Flight Attendants, UFO, again threatened strikes.


Sollte das Unternehmen nicht an den Verhandlungstisch zurückkehren, werde die Gewerkschaft "am 14. Oktober über die Arbeitskampfmaßnahmen im LH-Konzern informieren", teilte Ufo-Tarifvorstand Daniel Flohr am Freitag mit. Lufthansa und ihre Tochter Eurowings lehnen es seit Monaten ab, mit der Ufo Tarifverhandlungen zu führen. Dabei geht es auch um die Frage, ob die Gewerkschaft Tarifverträge bei der Lufthansa rechtmäßig gekündigt hat.

If the company does not return to the negotiating table, the labor union will "announce industrial action at the Lufthansa Group on October 14th," stated UFO vice-chairman Daniel Flohr on Friday. Lufthansa and its subsidiary Eurowings have for months refused to conduct wage negotiations with UFO. The question is whether the trade union has lawfully terminated collective negotiations with Lufthansa.

If the company should not return to the negotiation table, the union will “give notice about industrial actions in the LH group on October 14”, UFO chairman Daniel Flohr stated on Friday. Lufthansa and its daughter Eurowings refused for months to return to collective bargaining with the UFO - which also entails the question if the union lawfully cancelled collective agreements with the Lufthansa.


In diesem Punkt sieht sich Ufo nach einer Entscheidung des Arbeitsgerichtes Frankfurt nun gestärkt. Lufthansa wollte feststellen lassen, dass die Tarifverträge nicht gekündigt seien. Das Gericht wies die Anträge ab. Das Unternehmen bestätigte die Entscheidung und prüft, dagegen Rechtsmittel einzulegen. "Dass ein zweites Gericht die Sache völlig anders sieht, halte ich für unwahrscheinlich", sagte Ufo-Vorstand Flohr.

UFO views its position as strengthened following a ruling by the Frankfurt Labor Court. Lufthansa wanted to establish that the collective negotiations had not been terminated. The court rejected its claims. The company acknowledged the ruling and is considering an appeal. "I consider it unlikely that a second court will view the situation in a completely different way," said Flohr.

In this point the UFO sees itself strengthened by the Frankfurt labor court. Lufthansa wanted to determine that the collective agreements have not been cancelled. The court rejected the petitions. The company confirmed the decision and examines the possibility for appeals. “I think it’s unlikely that a second court sees the case completely differently”, UFO chairman Flohr said.