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NASA’s NEOWISE Mission: A Decade of Discovery and Defense in Space
On August 8, 2024, a historic era in space exploration and planetary defense drew to a close as the NEOWISE (Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer) mission concluded its operations. Launched initially as WISE in December 2009, this mission was rechristened NEOWISE in 2013 when it took on a new life focused on identifying and characterizing asteroids and comets that skirt close to Earth’s orbital path.
Ending the NEOWISE Mission
The Final Shutdown
In a solemn yet celebratory event at the Earth Orbiting Missions Operation Center, located within NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, engineers issued the final command to turn off NEOWISE’s transmitter. This last act was observed by mission members both past and present, along with top officials from NASA’s headquarters in Washington. Through NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, the command was dutifully relayed, officially decommissioning the spacecraft.
The Impact of Solar Activity
NASA pointed to the inevitable descent of NEOWISE in its orbit around the Earth, accelerated by increased solar activity, as a principal reason for the mission’s end. This solar activity heated the upper atmosphere, causing it to expand and exert additional drag on the spacecraft, which lacked its own propulsion system. Soon, NEOWISE will gracefully re-enter Earth’s atmosphere and disintegrate—a fiery finale to over a decade of monumental service.
A Legacy of Achievements
NEOWISE began its journey scanning the entire sky in infrared. This allowed for high sensitivity detection of celestial objects beyond the capability of previous surveys. Despite a running out of coolant in 2010, which was crucial for its infrared capabilities, NEOWISE transitioned to focusing on objects within our solar system that were naturally highlighted by the sun’s rays.
Under the stewardship of the Near-Earth Object Observations Program, NEOWISE excelled in its role. “The NEOWISE mission has been an extraordinary success story as it helped us better understand our place in the universe by tracking asteroids and comets that could be hazardous for us on Earth,” remarked Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. Throughout its extensive operation, NEOWISE contributed significantly to our planetary defense knowledge, detecting over 3,000 near-Earth objects, some 215 of which were new discoveries, and identifying 25 new comets.
Paving the Way for NEO Surveyor
One of the most tangible legacies of NEOWISE is the groundwork it has laid for subsequent initiatives, notably the NEO Surveyor mission. Expected to launch no earlier than 2027, NEO Surveyor will continue the vital task of scanning the skies for potentially hazardous objects. This next-generation telescope will focus on detecting ‘dark’ asteroids and comets—objects that reflect little visible light and are difficult to track from Earth.
Amy Mainzer, principal investigator for both NEOWISE and NEO Surveyor, encapsulated the transition, stating, “While it is sad to see NEOWISE retire, it has set a robust foundation for the next steps in our planetary defense efforts.”
By all measures, the NEOWISE mission has been a beacon of scientific triumph and international cooperation. As the sun sets on this chapter of space exploration, the global community looks eagerly towards the advancements and discoveries that will follow in its path, safeguarding our planet and shedding light on the dark corners of our solar system.
To stay updated on NEO Surveyor and other NASA missions, visit NASA’s official website.
{Source: NASA}
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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.
Last Updated on April 21, 2026 by Daily News Staff
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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