Amazon is preparing to launch its first two Kuiper satellites on October 6. These satellites are part of Project Kuiper, which aims to provide internet connectivity to remote locations. The launch will allow Amazon to collect valuable data and test the performance of its satellites. The company plans to deploy its first production satellites in early 2024 and start beta testing with commercial consumers later that year.
Norwegian startup, Agoprene, led by CEO Celine Sandberg, is developing sustainable furniture foam as an alternative to petrochemical-based materials. Their experiments with seaweed-based materials have led to the creation of numerous foam samples, with applications in furniture and other industries. Sandberg hopes to inspire more startups to develop sustainable alternatives and foster a community of innovators addressing environmental challenges.
The FCC has fined Dish Network $150,000 for not properly disposing of its retired satellite, highlighting concerns about space debris. Dish Network admitted liability for leaving the EchoStar-7 satellite at a disposal orbit below the required elevation. The FCC’s enforcement action marks its first related to space debris. This settlement demonstrates the agency’s authority in enforcing space debris rules and emphasizes the importance of operators complying with their commitments. The issue of space debris has prompted NASA to explore solutions, such as TransAstra’s Flytrap capture bag, to mitigate the risks associated with space junk.
Fall has arrived, bringing with it the flu season and concerns about rising COVID-19 cases. Experts are unsure if COVID-19 is becoming a seasonal virus due to the different patterns observed in recent years. Factors such as societal behavior and immunity levels play a role in the apparent seasonality of the virus. As our immunity to the virus improves, the time between winter and summer surges may lengthen. Vaccine acceptance and booster shots also influence the likelihood of a winter surge. Developing an infrastructure to predict and prepare for COVID-19 outbreaks would enhance our ability to respond effectively.
Farmworkers in Maharashtra, India, are turning to substances like smokeless tobacco and alcohol to cope with the stresses of climate change. Extreme heat waves, floods, and crop failures have led to increased substance abuse among agricultural workers. The addictive nature of these substances poses serious health risks, but the lack of access to mental health professionals and support systems exacerbates the problem. Research and data collection are needed to address the issue of climate-related substance abuse and provide appropriate interventions.
Rafflesia, or the corpse flower, is facing extinction due to the destruction of its forest habitats in Southeast Asia. There are 42 species of Rafflesia, with 25 classified as critically endangered and 15 as endangered. Current conservation strategies are failing to protect two-thirds of these species. Scientists are urging for a cross-regional approach to save these remarkable flowers. The parasitic plant, which has no leaves, stems, or roots, extracts food and water from tropical jungle vines. Researchers are calling for increased habitat protection, better understanding of the plant, and new conservation methods.