News
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}
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/
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Last Updated on May 16, 2026 by Daily News Staff
National Small Business Month
Every May, communities across the United States recognize Small Business Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the entrepreneurs, family-owned companies, startups, and local shops that help drive the American economy. From neighborhood restaurants to innovative tech startups, small businesses continue to play a vital role in creating jobs, supporting communities, and inspiring innovation.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses account for millions of jobs nationwide and represent the backbone of local economies. Throughout May, organizations, chambers of commerce, and business leaders host networking events, educational workshops, and promotional campaigns to support entrepreneurs and encourage consumers to shop locally.
One of the highlights of the month is National Small Business Week, which honors outstanding entrepreneurs and business owners making a difference in their communities.
For consumers, Small Business Month is also a reminder that supporting local businesses helps strengthen neighborhoods and keeps communities thriving. Whether it’s dining at a local café, shopping at an independent store, or hiring a local service provider, every purchase can make an impact.
Learn more about Small Business Month and related events through the official U.S. Small Business Administrationwebsite.
Related External Links
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
- National Small Business Week – SBA
- SCORE – Mentoring and Resources for Small Businesses
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Small Business Resources
- Forbes Small Business News and Insights
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
News Brief
Earthquake Swarm Shakes Southern California Near Salton Sea
Earthquake Swarm: A swarm of earthquakes near California’s Salton Sea and Brawley area has prompted increased monitoring by seismologists as hundreds of tremors shake the region.
A swarm of earthquakes has been rattling Southern California near the Salton Sea, drawing attention from residents and seismologists across the region.
Salton Sea earthquake swarm?
The activity is centered near Brawley in Imperial County, an area known for frequent seismic movement due to its location within the Brawley Seismic Zone. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, hundreds of small earthquakes have been recorded over the past several days, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of approximately 4.7.
Residents throughout Imperial Valley, parts of Riverside County, and even portions of Arizona reported feeling shaking from several of the larger quakes. Minor incidents such as falling objects and brief power disruptions were also reported, though no major injuries or widespread structural damage have been confirmed at this time.
The region sits near the southern end of the San Andreas Fault and is considered one of California’s most geologically active areas. Scientists say earthquake swarms are relatively common near the Salton Sea because of the interaction between tectonic fault systems and geothermal activity beneath the surface.
While experts continue to monitor the situation closely, they emphasize that earthquake swarms do not necessarily indicate that a larger earthquake is imminent. However, officials encourage residents to review emergency preparedness plans, secure heavy furniture, and keep emergency supplies ready.
The Salton Sea region has experienced similar seismic swarms in the past, making it an important area of study for earthquake researchers and emergency management agencies.
For continued updates on this developing story and other regional news, visit STM Daily News.
Related External Links
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – Earthquake Monitoring
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- California Earthquake Preparedness Guide
- Ready.gov – Earthquake Safety Tips
- USGS – Salton Trough and Seismic Activity
Stay informed with the latest breaking news, trending stories, and real-time updates from around the world on STM Daily News. Visit our Stories This Moment page for continuously updated coverage on major events, technology, transportation, science, entertainment, and more.
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Consumer Corner
Frustration at the Pump: Why Americans are Exploring Electric Vehicles
Exploring Electric Vehicles: For more than one-third of Americans, one simple number is leading them to research electric vehicles: the final tally at a recent gas station fill-up. The pump is no longer just the close of a sale; for a growing number of drivers, it’s where questions begin.
Frustration at the Pump: Why Americans are Exploring Electric Vehicles
(Feature Impact) For more than one-third of Americans, one simple number is leading them to research electric vehicles: the final tally at a recent gas station fill-up.
This, according to new research from Hyundai Motor America, isn’t a hypothetical situation. In fact, 23% of respondents reported it’s happened to them more than once. For nearly half of Americans, pulling up to the pump now brings frustration or outright dread.
Many drivers have a number in mind where the math begins shifting, and once the shift happens, it rarely goes away. The pump is no longer just the close of a sale; for a growing number of drivers, it’s where questions begin.
For 23% of those surveyed, $5 per gallon is where they would start considering alternatives to a gas-powered vehicle. While some say they wouldn’t consider alternatives based on gas costs at all, this meaningful share of Americans points toward a specific tipping point.
Some begin by comparing models or brands while others find themselves on an automaker’s website, further along in the process than they initially expected to be. Most don’t act on this impulse right away, but drivers are increasingly caught somewhere between curious and committed – and 46% of those surveyed said they’d be likely to seriously research an EV.
The desire to leave the pump behind, which an EV would allow for, is a deal nearly half of respondents said they would take. However, the transition isn’t frictionless as charging access and range anxiety remain the top concerns for 28% of potential buyers.
While the move toward electric vehicles is often framed as a long-term decision made with spreadsheets and financial planning, for many Americans, it’s beginning somewhere smaller: a routine fuel stop and an eye-opening receipt.
If you’ve found yourself dismayed at the pump, find more information on electric vehicles at HyundaiUSA.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
eSOURCE:
Hyundai
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