Lucy spacecraft’s surprise: Dinkinesh, a main-belt asteroid, revealed its binary nature, setting the stage for the mission’s study of Trojan asteroids.
The Lucy spacecraft, on its way to study the Trojan asteroids in Jupiter’s orbit, recently made an unexpected detour. During a test run past a main-belt asteroid named Dinkinesh, Lucy’s tracking system revealed a surprising revelation. Rather than encountering a single asteroid, Lucy discovered that Dinkinesh is actually a binary system, consisting of one larger asteroid and one smaller moonlet. This unexpected find has provided valuable insights and sets the stage for Lucy’s upcoming mission objectives.
When the Lucy spacecraft encountered asteroid Dinkinesh, it found 2 asteroids instead of 1. Lucy captured this image, showing the smaller satellite slightly behind the main asteroid, at 12:55 p.m. EDT (16:55 UTC) on November 1, 2023. At that time, the light travel time between the spacecraft and the asteroid – in the main asteroid belt – was some 30 minutes. The spacecraft and the asteroid were some 300 million miles (500 million km) from Earth. Yet Lucy was so perfectly targeted that it came within a minute of its scheduled closest approach, to pass approximately 270 miles (430 km) above the surface of Dinkinesh. Image via NASA/ Goddard/ SwRI/ Johns Hopkins APL/ NOAO.
Dinkinesh’s Binary Nature Unveiled: The name Dinkinesh, meaning “marvelous” in Amharic, perfectly encapsulates the astonishment experienced by the Lucy mission team when they realized the true nature of this asteroid. Initial glimpses of Dinkinesh in September indicated its potential binary nature, as its brightness changed over time. This phenomenon resembled the method used by astronomers to identify planets by observing the fluctuation in brightness when they pass in front of stars.
Lucy’s latest images of Dinkinesh confirmed the existence of the binary system. The parent asteroid was estimated to be about 0.5 miles (790 m) wide, while the moonlet measured approximately 0.15 miles (220 m) in size. This successful mini-mission made Dinkinesh and its moon the smallest main-belt asteroids ever to be well-imaged by a spacecraft, marking a significant milestone for scientific exploration.
Lucy’s Next Destination: After this unexpected encounter with Dinkinesh, Lucy’s trajectory now sets its sights on future objectives. In December 2024, the spacecraft will undergo a second gravity assist from Earth, propelling it toward the orbit of Jupiter. Once there, Lucy will embark on its primary mission of studying the Trojan asteroids. These asteroids have been captured by Jupiter’s gravitational pull and are believed to have coexisted with the gas giant for billions of years within its orbit around the sun.
Alteration of Lucy’s Mission Plan: Dinkinesh was not originally part of the Lucy mission’s itinerary. The spacecraft’s original plan involved visiting the main-belt asteroid (52246) Donaldjohanson in 2025, followed by a tour of nine Trojan asteroids beginning in 2033. However, the discovery of a conveniently located small asteroid presented an opportunity for Lucy to make an additional visit. Raphael Marschall of the Nice Observatory in France identified Dinkinesh, estimated to be 0.4 miles (700 m) in size. The mission team adjusted Lucy’s course, bringing it closer to the asteroid, and successfully executed the flyby from a mere 270 miles (430 km) away.
Lucy’s Journey So Far: Launched in October 2021, Lucy underwent its first flyby of Earth a year later. On January 24, 2023, the mission team added Dinkinesh as a new target, deviating from the original plan. Through a strategic maneuver, Lucy managed to observe this fascinating asteroid two years ahead of schedule. It is worth noting that Dinkinesh derives its name from the Ethiopian term for the famous human ancestor fossil known as Lucy, after which the spacecraft’s mission is named.
Significance of the Tracking System: Lucy’s encounter with Dinkinesh served as an excellent test for the spacecraft’s innovative tracking system. This system was developed to overcome the longstanding challenge of accurately determining the spacecraft’s distance from an asteroid and precisely pointing the cameras. By approaching Dinkinesh at a similar angle relative to the sun as it will during the Trojan asteroid encounters, scientists were able to practice under comparable conditions well in advance of the main mission.
Artist’s concept of the Lucy spacecraft making a close flyby of an asteroid. Image via NASA.
The Lucy spacecraft’s unexpected discovery of Dinkinesh’s binary nature during its test run past the main-belt asteroid has provided valuable insights into the diversity of celestial bodies within our solar system. This surprise encounter showcases the capabilities of Lucy’s tracking system and its ability to adapt to unforeseen opportunities. As Lucy continues its journey, it promises to unravel more mysteries surrounding the Trojan asteroids and contribute to our understanding of the fascinating celestial objects that reside within Jupiter’s orbit.
The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
Unmasking the Deception: The $300 Million Fraud Case Surrounding Arizona Athletic Grounds
Randy and Chad Miller face serious fraud charges after allegedly defrauding investors out of $300 million in their failed sports complex, revealing a cautionary tale for investors.
A huge sports facility illuminated by the light of sunset. Created by AI
In a tale that intertwines ambition with deceit, the shocking story of Randy and Chad Miller, the father-son duo behind what was once touted as the largest sports and entertainment complex in the United States, has taken a dark turn. Opening the sprawling Bell Bank Park—which boasts an impressive 194 fields and courts—in East Mesa just three years ago, the Millers had big dreams. But now, they find themselves embroiled in a federal indictment that claims they defrauded investors out of nearly $300 million.
A Grand Vision Becomes a Nightmare
The original vision for the sports complex, which has since been rebranded as Arizona Athletic Grounds, was ambitious. Randy Miller, the mastermind behind the project, had long dreamed of creating a hub for sports and entertainment that would attract families, athletes, and fans from across the nation. After years of planning and investment, the facility finally opened its doors, seemingly fulfilling a lifelong dream.
However, dreams of grandeur have turned into a nightmare, as the Millers face serious allegations of using the facility as a front for an elaborate fraud scheme. With the company declaring bankruptcy in 2023—reporting debts of a staggering $366 million—investors and stakeholders are left reeling.
The Allegations: A Web of Fraud and Deceit
According to the federal indictment, Randy and Chad Miller allegedly enriched themselves at the expense of investors, using funds raised from municipal bonds for personal luxuries rather than for the intended purpose of constructing and operating the sports complex. The FBI claims they employed fraudulent documents and misrepresented the financial viability of the project to lure in unsuspecting investors.
From lavish purchases of luxury vehicles to alleged misappropriation of funds for personal expenses, their actions paint a picture of greed and entitlement. Not only did the Millers reportedly pay themselves significantly beyond disclosed salaries, but they also misled investors with false financial projections and forged documentation purporting to show interest from customers.
A Cautionary Tale for Investors
This case serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of investing in large-scale projects. The Millers poured their aspirations into the Arizona Athletic Grounds but masked disappointing financial realities with misleading projections and falsified documents. The initial feasibility study performed in 2016 indicated the project would generate significantly lower revenues than anticipated—a warning sign that went ignored in pursuit of ambition.
In a staggering twist, the project opened to a far cry from its projected success, generating less than $28 million in its first year compared to the nearly $96 million touted to investors. With bankruptcy filings showing that investors recouped a paltry sum of less than $2.5 million from their $284 million investment, many are left to ponder how their trust could be so easily manipulated.
Legal Ramifications and Future Implications
As the case unfolds, Randy and Chad Miller are facing severe legal consequences, including charges for wire fraud, securities fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, they could spend decades in prison, a sobering reality for the once-celebrated entrepreneurs. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is also pursuing parallel action, further complicating matters for the Millers.
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This incident not only reflects the pitfalls that entrepreneurs can face but also highlights the responsibilities of investors to conduct thorough due diligence before committing funds to any venture. The tale of the Millers serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity, transparency, and community trust in business practices.
Conclusion
As this saga continues to unfold, the story of the Arizona Athletic Grounds serves as a reflection on ambition gone awry. It’s a stark reminder that behind every grand vision lies the essential need for honesty and ethical conduct. The community of East Mesa, once hopeful for a thriving sports destination, now faces the challenge of moving forward, learning from the past, and rebuilding trust in local business ventures. We can only hope that the lessons from this cautionary tale resonate not just within the realm of sports and entertainment but across all industries that forge the backbone of our economy.
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Los Angeles: Exciting developments are underway for Southern California drivers as the Metro initiates the I-105 ExpressLanes Project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and enhancing roadway safety. As one of the region’s major arteries, the I-105 has long been burdened by heavy traffic, and Metro’s innovative approach promises to transform the existing landscape for the better.
What’s Happening?
The I-105 ExpressLanes Project is set to convert the existing High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane, commonly known as the carpool lane, into not one, but two Metro ExpressLanes in each direction along the I-105. This enhancement is part of Phase 1 of the project, specifically Segment 1, which stretches between Sepulveda Boulevard and Central Avenue. This phase is anticipated to last approximately three years, during which significant improvements will be made.
As part of the construction process, crews will be actively engaged in demolishing and reconstructing several sound walls, as well as performing crucial roadway pavement construction along the corridor in Segment 1. These sound wall adjustments are needed to facilitate the necessary roadway upgrades and ensure a smoother driving experience.
Where Is All This Happening?
The primary work will take place along the existing sound wall area on Westbound I-105, specifically located between Domingues Channel and the Crenshaw Boulevard on-ramp. This location is critical, as it serves as a vital section of the highway that many rely on daily.
What Can You Expect During Construction?
Navigating through construction zones can sometimes be tricky, but here’s what you can expect during this project:
Access Points: Crews will enter the work area primarily from the freeway, meaning minimal disruptions to side streets.
Daytime Work Hours: Most of the construction activities will occur during daytime hours, making it easier for commuters to plan their travel. However, keep in mind that intermittent nighttime work may be necessary to perform certain activities safely, particularly those related to roadway pavement construction.
Landscape Restoration: Once the construction wraps up and improvements are complete, landscaping and any trees that have been removed will be restored, allowing the area to flourish once again.
Important Note on Scheduling
As with any large construction project, it’s crucial to understand that work activity is subject to change based on various factors, primarily weather conditions. Because construction can be dynamic, schedules may be adjusted according to the team’s assessments on-site.
In Conclusion
The I-105 ExpressLanes Project represents a forward-thinking solution to Southern California’s persistent traffic challenges. By converting the existing HOV lane into ExpressLanes, Metro is aiming not just to alleviate congestion, but to provide a safer and more efficient roadway experience for all. Keep an eye out for updates, stay informed, and plan your travel accordingly—we can look forward to a smoother ride on the I-105 in the years to come!
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The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
Workers who are in frequent contact with potentially sick animals are at high risk of bird flu infection.
Costfoto/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesRon Barrett, Macalester College
Disease forecasts are like weather forecasts: We cannot predict the finer details of a particular outbreak or a particular storm, but we can often identify when these threats are emerging and prepare accordingly.
The viruses that cause avian influenza are potential threats to global health. Recent animal outbreaks from a subtype called H5N1 have been especially troubling to scientists. Although human infections from H5N1 have been relatively rare, there have been a little more than 900 known cases globally since 2003 – nearly 50% of these cases have been fatal – a mortality rate about 20 times higher than that of the 1918 flu pandemic. If the worst of these rare infections ever became common among people, the results could be devastating.
Approaching potential disease threats from an anthropological perspective, my colleagues and I recently published a book called “Emerging Infections: Three Epidemiological Transitions from Prehistory to the Present” to examine the ways human behaviors have shaped the evolution of infectious diseases, beginning with their first major emergence in the Neolithic period and continuing for 10,000 years to the present day.
Viewed from this deep time perspective, it becomes evident that H5N1 is displaying a common pattern of stepwise invasion from animal to human populations. Like many emerging viruses, H5N1 is making incremental evolutionary changes that could allow it to transmit between people. The periods between these evolutionary steps present opportunities to slow this process and possibly avert a global disaster.
Spillover and viral chatter
When a disease-causing pathogen such as a flu virus is already adapted to infect a particular animal species, it may eventually evolve the ability to infect a new species, such as humans, through a process called spillover.
Spillover is a tricky enterprise. To be successful, the pathogen must have the right set of molecular “keys” compatible with the host’s molecular “locks” so it can break in and out of host cells and hijack their replication machinery. Because these locks often vary between species, the pathogen may have to try many different keys before it can infect an entirely new host species. For instance, the keys a virus successfully uses to infect chickens and ducks may not work on cattle and humans. And because new keys can be made only through random mutation, the odds of obtaining all the right ones are very slim.
Given these evolutionary challenges, it is not surprising that pathogens often get stuck partway into the spillover process. A new variant of the pathogen might be transmissible from an animal only to a person who is either more susceptible due to preexisting illness or more likely to be infected because of extended exposure to the pathogen.
Even then, the pathogen might not be able to break out of its human host and transmit to another person. This is the current situation with H5N1. For the past year, there have been many animal outbreaks in a variety of wild and domestic animals, especially among birds and cattle. But there have also been a small number of human cases, most of which have occurred among poultry and dairy workers who worked closely with large numbers of infected animals.
Pathogen transmission can be modeled in three stages. In Stage 1, the pathogen can be transmitted only between nonhuman animals. In stage 2, the pathogen can also be transmitted to humans, but it is not yet adapted for human-to-human transmission. In Stage 3, the pathogen is fully capable of human-to-human transmission.Ron Barrett, CC BY-SA
Epidemiologists call this situation viral chatter: when human infections occur only in small, sporadic outbreaks that appear like the chattering signals of coded radio communications – tiny bursts of unclear information that may add up to a very ominous message. In the case of viral chatter, the message would be a human pandemic.
Sporadic, individual cases of H5N1 among people suggest that human-to-human transmission may likely occur at some point. But even so, no one knows how long or how many steps it would take for this to happen.
Influenza viruses evolve rapidly. This is partly because two or more flu varieties can infect the same host simultaneously, allowing them to reshuffle their genetic material with one another to produce entirely new varieties.
Genetic reshuffling – aka antigenic shift – between a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza and a strain of human influenza could create a new strain that’s even more infectious among people.Eunsun Yoo/Biomolecules & Therapeutics, CC BY-NC
These reshuffling events are more likely to occur when there is a diverse range of host species. So it is particularly concerning that H5N1 is known to have infected at least 450 different animal species. It may not be long before the viral chatter gives way to larger human epidemics.
Reshaping the trajectory
The good news is that people can take basic measures to slow down the evolution of H5N1 and potentially reduce the lethality of avian influenza should it ever become a common human infection. But governments and businesses will need to act.
People can start by taking better care of food animals. The total weight of the world’s poultry is greater than all wild bird species combined. So it is not surprising that the geography of most H5N1 outbreaks track more closely with large-scale housing and international transfers of live poultry than with the nesting and migration patterns of wild aquatic birds. Reducing these agricultural practices could help curb the evolution and spread of H5N1.
Large-scale commercial transport of domesticated animals is associated with the evolution and spread of new influenza varieties.ben/Flickr, CC BY-SA
People can also take better care of themselves. At the individual level, most people can vaccinate against the common, seasonal influenza viruses that circulate every year. At first glance this practice may not seem connected to the emergence of avian influenza. But in addition to preventing seasonal illness, vaccination against common human varieties of the virus will reduce the odds of it mixing with avian varieties and giving them the traits they need for human-to-human transmission.
At the population level, societies can work together to improve nutrition and sanitation in the world’s poorest populations. History has shown that better nutrition increases overall resistance to new infections, and better sanitation reduces how much and how often people are exposed to new pathogens. And in today’s interconnected world, the disease problems of any society will eventually spread to every society.
For more than 10,000 years, human behaviors have shaped the evolutionary trajectories of infectious diseases. Knowing this, people can reshape these trajectories for the better.Ron Barrett, Professor of Anthropology, Macalester College
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Ron Barrett, Professor of Anthropology, Macalester College
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
