News
Celebrating 25 Years of Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace with a Theatrical Return
“Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace celebrates its 25th anniversary with a limited theatrical return from May 3 – May 5, 2024. May the Force be with you!”
Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Daily News Staff
Exciting news has been unveiled for Star Wars fans worldwide as Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace is set to make a grand return to theaters from May 3 to May 5, 2024, in celebration of its 25th anniversary. The announcement, shared by Empire Magazine, comes adorned with a stunning new poster by artist Matt Ferguson, adding to the fervor surrounding this iconic film.
Re-releasing The Phantom Menace
The re-release promises to transport audiences back to the captivating world of Star Wars, featuring unforgettable moments such as the intense Darth Maul vs. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn duel, the exhilarating Boonta Eve Podrace, and the epic battle of Naboo. This cinematic experience is a chance to relive the origins of the Skywalker Saga, witness Anakin Skywalker’s initial encounter with the Jedi, the galactic civil war’s nascent stages, and the insidious machinations of Palpatine.
As fans eagerly anticipate the return of The Phantom Menace to the big screen, Empire Magazine has unveiled exclusive photos of the original cast, including beloved characters and thrilling scenes that have left an indelible mark on the Star Wars universe.
To complement this exciting revival, Empire Magazine has prepared an issue dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Star Wars prequels, featuring insightful interviews with key cast members like Hayden Christensen, Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, and more. Additionally, readers can delve into the behind-the-scenes magic with producers, stunt coordinators, and concept designers, exploring iconic sequences and rarely-seen concept art from the trilogy.
With the anticipation building up, fans are encouraged to grab a copy of Empire’s special issue, available from February 15, to delve deeper into the legacy of The Phantom Menace. So, mark your calendars for this special cinematic event and relive the magic of Star Wars Episode 1 on the big screen once more.
Don’t miss out on this limited-time opportunity to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace in theaters from May 3. May the Force be with you as you embark on this nostalgic journey!
Source: starwarsnewsnet.com and Empire Magazine
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Science
October Meteor Showers Give Phoenix Skywatchers a Reason to Look Up
Phoenix skywatchers have several chances to catch October’s meteor showers. Here’s when to watch the Taurids and Orionids—and how moonlight affects the view.
Last Updated on October 10, 2026 by Daily News Staff
PHOENIX — October is bringing several opportunities to spot shooting stars over the Valley, with the Draconids reaching their October 8–9 peak and more meteor activity ahead.
The Draconids remain active through October 10, although viewers should expect a light display as the peak passes. Under favorable conditions, the shower typically produces only a handful of meteors per hour. timeanddate.com
Next, the Southern Taurids have an annual activity peak around October 14. Known for occasional bright fireballs, the shower continues into November. The stronger Orionids peak on the night of October 21 into the morning of October 22, typically producing 10–20 meteors per hour under dark skies. A bright Moon will interfere with this year’s display. American Meteor Society
The Orionids originate from debris left by Halley’s Comet. For Phoenix viewers, the best opportunity will be after moonset and before dawn, weather permitting. City lights will further reduce the number visible. amsmeteors.org
NASA recommends finding a viewing area away from streetlights, allowing about 30 minutes for eyes to adjust, and watching a broad stretch of sky. No telescope is needed—just a comfortable chair and patience. NASA Science
ECurious about what’s happening above us? Explore more space stories and science explainers in The Knowledge at STM Daily News.xplore more space, science and everyday
Local News
Maricopa Boil Water Advisory Lifted After Negative E. Coli Tests
Maricopa boil water advisory lifted: Global Water–Santa Cruz Water Company customers in Maricopa can resume normal tap water use after follow-up testing found no E. coli.
MARICOPA, Ariz. — A precautionary boil water advisory for Global Water–Santa Cruz Water Company customers in the city of Maricopa was lifted Thursday, October 8, after repeat testing found no E. coli in water samples. The utility announced the cancellation at approximately 2 p.m. Arizona time.
The advisory was issued October 7 after two preliminary tests indicated possible contamination. Customers were temporarily instructed to use bottled water or boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking it or using it for food preparation.
With follow-up results negative, affected customers no longer need to boil water for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth or washing dishes, according to the utility.
The advisory affected the utility’s customers in the city of Maricopa, located in Pinal County. It was not a countywide warning for Maricopa County or Phoenix.
Residents can visit Global Water Resources’ official notice page for updates or call 866-940-1102 with questions.
Automotive
Hyundai Unveils All-New Tucson With Bold New Look, Smarter Hybrid Tech
Hyundai has unveiled the all-new Tucson, bringing bolder styling, a next-generation hybrid targeting up to 42 mpg, AI-powered infotainment and the rugged new XRT PRO.
Hyundai’s popular compact SUV gets a major makeover with a targeted 42 mpg hybrid, AI-powered infotainment and a more adventurous XRT PRO model.
Hyundai is preparing the Tucson for its next chapter, unveiling an all-new version of its popular SUV with a dramatically revised design, next-generation hybrid technology and a new digital experience built around artificial intelligence.
Hyundai Motor Company introduced the all-new Tucson in New York City against the Manhattan skyline, calling the redesigned model its “boldest SUV” yet.
For buyers, however, the bigger story may be what lies beneath the new styling. Hyundai is combining improved hybrid efficiency, more advanced infotainment and additional off-road capability in an effort to make the Tucson equally comfortable handling weekday commuting, family duty and weekend adventures.
A Bolder Tucson Takes Shape
The new Tucson adopts Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” design philosophy, giving the SUV a more muscular and purposeful appearance.
Rather than simply updating the outgoing Tucson, Hyundai appears to be pushing the model toward a stronger SUV identity while maintaining the everyday practicality that has helped make the Tucson one of the company’s most important global vehicles.
The new exterior is complemented by a redesigned cabin emphasizing space, storage and easier-to-use controls. Hyundai says the interior includes flexible storage solutions and available relaxation features designed to make longer trips more comfortable.
That combination could be important in a compact SUV segment where shoppers increasingly expect vehicles to serve several roles at once — commuter, family vehicle, road-trip machine and recreational vehicle.
Hybrid Targets Up to 42 MPG
One of the most significant changes is Hyundai’s Next-generation Hybrid System.
Hyundai says the new system is targeting fuel economy of up to 42 mpg, while also attempting to preserve responsive driving performance.
If that target carries through to production specifications and official fuel-economy testing, it could make the Tucson Hybrid particularly attractive to drivers who want SUV practicality without moving to a fully electric vehicle.
The strategy also reflects a broader automotive trend. Hybrids have increasingly become an important middle ground for consumers looking to reduce fuel consumption without changing their driving and charging habits.
Final EPA fuel-economy figures and U.S.-market specifications will ultimately determine how the new Tucson compares with its competitors.
Pleos Connect Brings AI Into the Cabin
Technology is another major focus of the redesign.
The Tucson introduces Hyundai’s Pleos Connect next-generation infotainment platform, which incorporates Gleo AI, an expanding app marketplace and a redesigned user interface.
Hyundai describes Pleos Connect as an evolving digital platform rather than simply a conventional infotainment system.
That could allow the Tucson’s capabilities to expand over time as software, applications and connected services develop.
The important question for drivers will be whether all that technology actually makes everyday tasks easier. Automakers continue adding increasingly sophisticated screens and software to their vehicles, but intuitive controls and minimal driver distraction remain just as important as the number of available features.
Tucson XRT PRO Heads Further Off the Pavement
Hyundai is also expanding the Tucson’s adventurous side with the introduction of the Tucson XRT PRO.
The more rugged model adds enhanced off-road technologies, including Hyundai’s first Smart Terrain Assist, or STA.
The system is designed to help the vehicle adapt to changing terrain and provide drivers with additional confidence when leaving paved roads.
The XRT PRO could broaden the Tucson’s appeal among buyers who like the practicality of a compact crossover but want more capability for camping, outdoor recreation and light off-road travel.
More detailed specifications will help determine just how far the XRT PRO moves beyond the appearance-oriented adventure packages commonly offered in the compact SUV market.
A Major Vehicle in Hyundai’s Bigger Product Push
The importance of the new Tucson extends beyond a single model.
“Millions of families around the world count on the Hyundai TUCSON, and this is the best one we have ever built,” Hyundai Motor Company President and CEO José Muñoz said during the announcement.
Muñoz also said the Tucson begins what Hyundai describes as the most ambitious product offensive in its history.
The automaker plans to introduce more than 100 new or refreshed vehicles globally by 2030, including 58 in North America.
That makes the Tucson something of an opening act for Hyundai’s next generation of vehicles.
The Tucson Enters Its Next Era
Compact SUVs remain some of the most versatile vehicles on the market, and Hyundai appears determined to keep the Tucson competitive by improving several areas simultaneously rather than relying on styling alone.
A targeted 42-mpg hybrid powertrain could appeal to fuel-conscious drivers. Pleos Connect and Gleo AI represent Hyundai’s push toward increasingly software-driven vehicles. Meanwhile, the new XRT PRO gives the Tucson lineup a more adventurous option.
There are still important details to come, including complete U.S. specifications, EPA-certified fuel economy, trim levels, pricing and availability.
But Hyundai’s message is already clear: the next Tucson is intended to be more than a routine redesign.
It is being positioned as a showcase for where Hyundai believes the modern SUV is headed — bolder in appearance, smarter inside and more efficient underneath.
Source: Hyundai Motor Company. Specifications and fuel-economy figures discussed by Hyundai are preliminary and may vary by market. Final U.S. specifications and EPA ratings may differ.
Sources & Related Links
- Hyundai Motor Company — Official All-New Tucson Announcement
Hyundai’s original newsroom announcement covering the redesign, next-generation hybrid system, Pleos Connect, Gleo AI and Tucson XRT PRO. Hyundai
Hyundai Motor: All-New Tucson Official Announcement - Hyundai — All-New Tucson Highlights
Official product page with more detail on the “Art of Steel” design, Pleos Connect, 17-inch display, app marketplace, hybrid technology and XRT PRO. Hyundai
Explore the All-New Tucson - Hyundai USA — Tucson
Hyundai’s U.S. consumer page for Tucson information, specifications, trims and future model updates.
Hyundai USA: Tucson - PR Newswire — All-New Hyundai Tucson Press Release
The syndicated release announcing the new Tucson and Hyundai’s target of up to 42 mpg for its next-generation hybrid system. PR Newswire
Read the Original PR Newswire Release - Car and Driver — 2027 Hyundai Tucson
Independent coverage with additional U.S.-market specifications, including powertrain, interior, cargo and XRT Pro information. Car and Driver
Car and Driver: 2027 Hyundai Tucson Details - Road & Track — 2027 Hyundai Tucson
Additional independent coverage of the Tucson redesign, hybrid powertrain, Pleos Connect and XRT Pro off-road features. Road & Track
Road & Track: New Hyundai Tucson Details
