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Lucy Spacecraft’s Surprise Discovery: Dinkinesh Reveals Binary Nature
Lucy spacecraft’s surprise: Dinkinesh, a main-belt asteroid, revealed its binary nature, setting the stage for the mission’s study of Trojan asteroids.
Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Daily News Staff
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.
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.
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.
Source: NASA
Check out this article from Earthsky https://earthsky.org/space/lucy-spacecraft-to-visit-asteroid-nov-1-2023/?mc_cid=c07b5b936a&mc_eid=36fb49e54a
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The Knowledge
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026 Across Southern California
Metrolink offers fare-free rides for Earth Day 2026 across Southern California, encouraging sustainable travel and reduced emissions.
Metrolink Offers Fare-Free Rides for Earth Day 2026
LOS ANGELES — April 22, 2026 — In a continued push toward sustainable transportation, Metrolink will once again offer systemwide free rides on Earth Day, inviting commuters and travelers to leave their cars behind and explore a cleaner way to move across the region.
A One-Day Opportunity to Ride Free
On Wednesday, April 22, passengers can board any Metrolink train — including the Arrow service — without purchasing a ticket. The initiative is part of the broader celebration of Earth Day, encouraging environmentally conscious travel choices.
The fare-free program is designed to appeal to both regular riders and first-time users, particularly those navigating Southern California’s persistent traffic congestion and rising fuel costs.
Encouraging Sustainable Travel Habits
“Earth Day is a reminder that small changes, like choosing public transit over driving one day a week, can have a meaningful impact on our environment,” said Doug Chaffee, chair of the Metrolink Board.
With gas prices continuing to strain household budgets, the agency hopes the initiative will inspire more residents to consider rail as part of their regular commute.
Regional Connections Expand Access
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion aligns with similar efforts by other Southern California transit providers. Riders can seamlessly connect to services operated by: LA Metro and the Orange County Transportation Authority, Riverside County Transportation Commission, San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and Ventura County Transportation Commission.
These partnerships extend the reach of fare-free travel across a six-county region, making it easier for riders to explore destinations without relying on personal vehicles.
Service Adjustments and Rider Tips
Passengers should note that trains will operate on a reduced weekday schedule, implemented earlier this spring. Despite the adjustment, all Metrolink lines and station cities remain in service.
For those planning a trip:
- No ticket is required — simply board the train
- Bikes are welcome, with capacity ranging from three bikes per standard car to nine in designated bike cars
- A curated destination guide highlights attractions within walking or biking distance of stations
Environmental and Economic Impact
Metrolink is also promoting its Personal Impact Calculator, a digital tool that allows riders to estimate how switching from driving to rail can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower fuel expenses.
A Broader Trend in Public Transit
Fare-free transit days have gained traction nationwide as agencies look to boost ridership and promote sustainability. Southern California’s expansive commuter rail network makes it particularly well-suited for such initiatives, offering a viable alternative to one of the country’s most car-dependent regions.
Bottom Line
Metrolink’s Earth Day promotion is more than a one-day free ride — it’s a strategic effort to shift commuter behavior, reduce environmental impact, and showcase the convenience of regional rail. For Southern Californians, April 22 presents a low-risk opportunity to rethink how they travel.
Source: Metrolink
https://metrolinktrains.com/news/metrolink-goes-fare-free-for-earth-day-on-april-22
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Money Management: The Importance of Financial Literacy
You may have mastered the core subjects like math and grammar in school, but financial literacy – or understanding the basics of money management in order to help you make better financial decisions – often goes overlooked before adulthood. It’s not so much a course of study as it is a plan of action. When you understand how to earn, save, spend and invest wisely, you aren’t just building a stable future for yourself, but your family and community as well.
(Feature Impact) You may have mastered the core subjects like math and grammar in school, but financial literacy – or understanding the basics of money management in order to help you make better financial decisions – often goes overlooked before adulthood. It’s not so much a course of study as it is a plan of action.
Financial literacy in the United States has remained stagnant at generally low levels for several years, according to research from TIAA Institute and the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center, with even lower levels among Gen Z. Yet greater financial literacy – including key aspects such as goal-setting, budgeting, saving, credit management and investing – is strongly linked to better financial outcomes, including lower rates of debt constraint and financial fragility.
While emboldening yourself to understand financial terms can be a little overwhelming at first, once you have a grasp of basic concepts you can begin to get a handle on your money and make better financial decisions. Simply put: When you understand how to earn, save, spend and invest wisely, you aren’t just building a stable future for yourself, but your family and community as well.
From nonprofit partnerships to volunteer-led programs and fee online resources, Schwab and its employees help millions of people every year build the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their financial futures by serving as board members, mentors, role models and educators.
Because financial health is a lifelong journey, the earlier people learn vital money skills, the better. That’s why the financial advisory services provider develops education programs geared toward kids that continue into adulthood, helping people no matter where they are on their journeys.
Talk Money
It’s never too early to start a conversation about financial literacy. Having teens identify goals that are important to them – such as concert tickets or a first car – can kickstart coversations about money. Working with your child (and a financial advisor, if necessary) on a plan for saving to realize those goals can serve as a jumping off point. After achieving some success, their enthusiasm may grow, which is a powerful motivator to keep saving.
Support School Initiatives and Programs
Outreach programs that empower young people to make smart financial decisions is key to a bright future. Programs like Money Matters – Schwab’s flagship financial education program utilized by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America – gives young people hands-on experience with all aspects of money and investing.
This example, and others, don’t just include program funding – they build partnerships that create impact and opportunity with national collaborations that reach more than 17 million youth annually, empowering young people with the tools and confidence to make smart financial decisions for life.
Spread the Financial Love
Championing financial literacy empowers everyone – individuals, families and communities. By serving as a board member, mentor, role model or educator to help bring financial literacy to others in your community, you can supply the tools and knowledge to lead programs that focus on giving back, empowering future generations in countless ways.
To learn more about financial literacy and find resources to empower your local community, visit SchwabMoneywise.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
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SUVs and EVs Take Center Stage at the 2026 New York International Auto Show
(Feature Impact) The 2026 New York International Auto Show is shining a spotlight on the latest in automotive innovation, from advanced technology to the growing shift toward electric vehicles. One automaker, Kia, is using the show to highlight two versatile SUVs designed to offer more space, capability and flexibility for modern drivers.
Watch this video to learn more
The all-new 2027 Kia Seltos has grown in size, offering a roomier interior with additional legroom, headroom and cargo space. It also adds a hybrid powertrain, making it the only vehicle in its class with three powertrain options. The SUV comes packed with advanced safety features, a more capable all-wheel-drive system and premium interior touches, including dual 12.3-inch display screens and an available panoramic sunroof.
The automaker is also showcasing the all-electric EV3, a compact SUV designed to make electric vehicle ownership more practical. With an estimated range of up to 320 miles, fast-charging capability and optional all-wheel drive, it balances performance, technology and everyday usability. Its intuitive features and flexible design make transitioning to electric simpler for a wider range of drivers.
Both models represent Kia’s commitment to providing options that blend capability, innovation and style. To learn more, visit Kia.com.
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