News
NASA’s Psyche En Route to Asteroid: Unlocking the Secrets of Planet Formation
On Earth, the planet’s iron core is responsible for the magnetic field that shields our atmosphere and enables life.
Led by Arizona State University on NASA’s behalf, the $1.2 billion mission will use a roundabout route to get to the asteroid. The van-size spacecraft with solar panels big enough to fill a tennis court will swoop past Mars for a gravity boost in 2026. Three years later, it will reach the asteroid and attempt to go into orbit around it, circling as high as 440 miles (700 kilometers) and as close as 47 miles (75 kilometers) until at least 2031.
The spacecraft relies on solar electric propulsion, using xenon gas-fed thrusters and their gentle blue-glowing pulses. An experimental communication system is also along for the ride, using lasers instead of radio waves in an attempt to expand the flow of data from deep space to Earth. NASA expects the test to yield more than 10 times the amount of data, enough to transmit videos from the moon or Mars one day.
The spacecraft should have soared a year ago, but was held up by delays in flight software testing attributed to poor management and other issues. The revised schedule added extra travel time. So instead of arriving at the asteroid in 2026 as originally planned, the spacecraft won’t get there until 2029.
That’s the same year that another NASA spacecraft — the one that just returned asteroid samples to the Utah desert — will arrive at a different space rock as it buzzes Earth.
On October 13, 2023, NASA’s Psyche spacecraft embarked on an extraordinary journey to study an asteroid of the same name. Carried by a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, Psyche’s mission is to investigate this metal-rich world and provide invaluable insights into the formation of rocky planets. Accompanying this ambitious endeavor is NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications technology demonstration, which will test laser communications beyond the Moon, paving the way for future exploration missions.
NASA/Aubrey Gemignani
The Psyche Mission
A Historic Launch:
Amidst great anticipation, Psyche successfully launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This momentous event marked the first-ever voyage to a metal-rich asteroid. As the spacecraft soared towards its destination, the fairings detached from the rocket, returning to Earth, and an hour later, Psyche separated from the rocket, preparing for the next phase of its mission.
Unveiling the Mysteries of Psyche:
Psyche promptly entered a planned safe mode, awaiting further commands from mission controllers on Earth. The spacecraft established communication with NASA’s Deep Space Network complex in Canberra, Australia, confirming its good health. With two-way communication established, scientists eagerly anticipate the treasure trove of scientific knowledge that Psyche will unlock.
A Metal World to Explore:
By August 2029, Psyche will begin orbiting the 173-mile-wide asteroid, becoming the first mission to explore a metal-class asteroid. With its high iron-nickel content, Psyche may be the remnant core of a planetesimal, offering valuable insights into the early stages of planet formation. This 26-month science investigation holds immense potential for expanding our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The Journey and Propulsion System:
Psyche’s journey to the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter spans six years and covers a distance of 2.2 billion miles. Powered by solar electric propulsion, the spacecraft employs charged atoms of xenon gas to create thrust, gently propelling it forward. Along the way, Psyche will utilize Mars’ gravity as a slingshot, further accelerating its journey towards the asteroid.
The Commissioning Phase:
The initial 100 days of the mission comprise a commissioning phase, during which all flight systems undergo thorough checks to ensure their health. Of particular importance is the readiness of the electric thrusters to continuously fire over long stretches of the trajectory. Simultaneously, the science instruments, including a magnetometer, gamma-ray and neutron spectrometer, and multispectral imager, will undergo active checkout.
Advancing Optical Communications:
One of the significant technological advancements accompanying the Psyche mission is NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications technology demonstration. Approximately three weeks into the mission, when Psyche is approximately 4.7 million miles away from Earth, this technology will be powered on. This marks NASA’s first test beyond the Moon of high-data-rate optical communications, a critical capability for future space exploration.
As Psyche embarks on its mission to unravel the mysteries of the metal-rich asteroid, excitement and anticipation fill the air. The discoveries made during this journey hold the potential to reshape our understanding of planet formation and evolution. Moreover, the technological advancements demonstrated by the Deep Space Optical Communications technology will pave the way for bolder goals and greater achievements in space exploration. NASA’s commitment to exploring the unknown and inspiring the world through discovery has never been stronger.
More Mission Information
Arizona State University leads the Psyche mission. A division of Caltech in Pasadena, JPL is responsible for the mission’s overall management, system engineering, integration and test, and mission operations. Maxar Space in Palo Alto, California, provided the high-power solar electric propulsion spacecraft chassis.
JPL manages the Deep Space Optical Communications project for the Technology Demonstration Missions program within STMD and the Space Communications and Navigation Program within the Space Operations Mission Directorate.
NASA’s Launch Services Program, based at Kennedy Space Center, is responsible for the insight and approval of the launch vehicle and manages the launch service for the Psyche mission. NASA certified the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket for use with the agency’s most complex and highest priority missions in early 2023 at the conclusion of a 2.5-year effort.
Psyche is the 14th mission selected as part of NASA’s Discovery Program, managed by the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
For more information about NASA’s Psyche mission go to:
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/
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
MALMÖ, Sweden /PRNewswire/ — Guided by the vision of creating a better everyday life for the many people, Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer, is stepping up efforts to support customers with low price while ensuring long-term growth. In many IKEA markets around the world*, the price of restaurant meals will be halved Monday through Friday, and children will eat for free.
With hundreds of millions of guests visiting IKEA restaurants every year, the company aims to inspire a better everyday life through food that is healthier, more sustainable, and affordable. As part of ongoing investments in the in-store experience, Ingka Group is introducing this price drop to help people stretch their budgets, nourish their families, and find a little more joy.
For example, in France, the price of lunch for a family of four, which includes two hot-meals with meatballs for adults and two meals for kids, will cost EUR 6.96 instead of EUR 19.9. In addition, all restaurant guests will receive a EUR 5 voucher to use in-store.
“Food has always been very important for IKEA, and we wanted to enable even more people to enjoy our restaurant offer while exploring our home furnishing range,” says Tolga Öncü, Ingka Retail Manager (COO) at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group). “Securing the lowest possible price for our products is always our utmost goal, and this is even more important in today’s times of economic uncertainties and cost-of-living pressures.”
At the same time, IKEA is refreshing its food offer with new dishes inspired by Asian flavours, expanding affordable, healthy options for customers.
“We always look for ways to bring more variety to our food offer, especially with new plant-based options,” says Lorena Lourido Gomez, Global Food Manager, IKEA Retail (Ingka Group). “We will soon launch our very first falafel, adding this popular food to our restaurants and, later, to our Swedish Food Markets. Good quality, low price, and making a positive difference for the planet – those ingredients remain a guiding star for our food business.”
Heading toward the end of FY25, IKEA remains focused on helping customers make the most of their finances while delivering value through both food and home furnishing.
*Austria, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, UK.
www.ingka.com/newsroom/latest-news
SOURCE IKEA
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Automotive
Slate Auto’s $20K EV Truck Dream Collapses Under Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”
Slate Auto’s sub-$20K electric pickup is no more—Trump’s new bill kills the EV tax credit that made the price possible.
Image Credit: Slate Auto
The Affordable EV Dream, Derailed
Slate Auto made waves in early 2025 by announcing an electric pickup truck with a revolutionary promise: a starting price under $20,000. With a minimalist, modular design and direct-to-consumer sales model, the company hoped to disrupt the industry by delivering a rugged, no-frills EV that everyday drivers could actually afford.
But that promise may now be broken.
In July 2025, the newly passed “Big Beautiful Bill” from President Donald Trump eliminated the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, a cornerstone of Slate’s pricing model. And as of now, Slate has quietly removed its sub-$20K price claims, signaling a dramatic shift in its market positioning.
What Was the Original Plan?
Slate Auto’s vision was simple:
Base price of the pickup: ~$25,000 Subtract $7,500 tax credit → final cost: $17,500 Optional bolt-on accessories and upgrades for customization
This formula positioned the Slate truck as a compelling solution for tradespeople, students, rural drivers, and eco-conscious buyers seeking low-cost alternatives to gas trucks.
What Changed?
The Trump administration’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” passed in July 2025, includes a provision that eliminates all federal EV tax credits starting September 30, 2025. That means:
No more $7,500 off at the point of sale Budget EVs like Slate’s are left to float—or sink—on their true retail pricing EV industry analysts warn of broader slowdowns in adoption
For Slate, it means their truck is no longer “America’s first under-$20K EV pickup.” Instead, the expected price now ranges from $25,000 to $27,500, and could rise to $35K with add-ons—putting it closer to competitors like the Ford Maverick Hybrid and Chevy Equinox EV.
The Fallout
This change hits hard for Slate, which built its brand on simplicity and accessibility. Without the tax credit:
Entry-level customers are priced out Preorder holders may cancel based on unexpected price hikes Market differentiation is weakened, as affordability was Slate’s primary value proposition
Meanwhile, critics argue the rollback of tax credits slows EV adoption at a critical time in the climate fight. Environmental groups and consumer advocates are already pushing back, saying the bill disproportionately hurts low- and middle-income Americans who were just beginning to consider electric vehicles.
What’s Next for Slate?
Slate says it still plans to begin production in late 2026, but without the EV credit, it must rework its pricing strategy and value offering. Possibilities include:
Offering fewer standard features Creating stripped-down fleet or worksite models Lobbying for state-level incentives to offset federal losses
Whether these changes will be enough to keep Slate competitive remains to be seen.
Final Thoughts
The electric vehicle space is undergoing seismic shifts, and the demise of the federal EV tax credit is likely to create ripple effects across the industry. For Slate Auto, the dream of a sub-$20K EV pickup may be over—but if they can pivot wisely, the company could still carve out a niche in the fast-evolving electric truck market.
Visit Slate Auto: https://www.slate.auto/en
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
astronomy
A New Interstellar Visitor: Meet 3I/ATLAS, the Third Object from Beyond Our Solar System
Astronomers have discovered 3I/ATLAS, only the third known interstellar object to enter our solar system—here’s what we know so far.
A Cosmic Rarity: Another Visitor from the Stars
In an exciting development for astronomers and space enthusiasts alike, scientists have confirmed the discovery of a new interstellar object—officially named 3I/ATLAS—currently passing through our solar system. This marks only the third known object from another star system to visit us, following the mysterious ‘Oumuamua in 2017 and the icy 2I/Borisov in 2019.
The object was first detected on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS telescope in Chile. Initially cataloged as A11pl3Z, further analysis confirmed that its speed and orbital trajectory are hyperbolic—meaning it’s not bound by the Sun’s gravity and is merely passing through, just like its rare predecessors.
What Do We Know About 3I/ATLAS?
Origin: The object’s interstellar origin is confirmed by its high velocity—traveling at around 60 km/s (37 miles per second)—and its hyperbolic orbit. Composition: Unlike ‘Oumuamua, which sparked debate due to its lack of a visible tail, 3I/ATLAS appears to be a comet, exhibiting a faint coma and short dust tail. Size: The comet’s nucleus could be as large as 10 kilometers (6 miles) across, though dust and debris around it may be inflating those estimates. Distance from Earth: It will come no closer than 150 to 240 million miles, posing no threat to our planet. Visibility: It’s currently about 420 million miles from the Sun and will reach its closest approach (perihelion) around October 29–30, 2025. After briefly disappearing behind the Sun, it may reappear for additional observation in December.
@stmblog 🚨 A comet from another star system is flying through our solar system right now! 🌠 Meet 3I/ATLAS — only the 3rd interstellar object ever seen! 👽✨ SpaceTok 3IATLAS Oumuamua Interstellar ScienceTok AstronomyFacts DidYouKnow CosmicVisitor #STMDailyNews https://stmdailynews.com/a-new-interstell…our-solar-system/ ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews – STMDailyNews
Why Interstellar Objects Matter
Interstellar objects are not just celestial curiosities—they are time capsules carrying information about the environments where they formed, likely in entirely different star systems. Their compositions, movements, and structures give scientists rare glimpses into the diversity of planetary building blocks in our galaxy.
‘Oumuamua puzzled scientists with its unusual shape and lack of comet-like activity, while 2I/Borisov looked more like a traditional comet. Now, 3I/ATLAS gives us another chance to compare and contrast these space travelers and deepen our understanding of how solar systems form and evolve.
Eyes on the Sky
Though faint and fast-moving, 3I/ATLAS is already being tracked by observatories around the world. With modern telescopes and tools that weren’t available even a decade ago, astronomers are optimistic about gathering unprecedented data on this rare visitor.
Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a casual cosmic tourist, it’s thrilling to know that something from another solar system is soaring through our cosmic backyard—reminding us of the vastness and wonder of the universe.
Sources:
Reuters: Newly Spotted Comet is Third Interstellar Object The Guardian: Mystery Object Likely from Beyond Our Solar System AP News: Astronomers Track Third Interstellar Visitor
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
🧠 Forgotten Genius Fridays
A Short-Form Series from The Knowledge by STM Daily News
Every Friday, STM Daily News shines a light on brilliant minds history overlooked.
Forgotten Genius Fridays is a weekly collection of short videos and articles dedicated to inventors, innovators, scientists, and creators whose impact changed the world—but whose names were often left out of the textbooks.
From life-saving inventions and cultural breakthroughs to game-changing ideas buried by bias, our series digs up the truth behind the minds that mattered.
Each episode of The Knowledge runs 30–90 seconds, designed for curious minds on the go—perfect for YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Reels, and quick reads.
Because remembering these stories isn’t just about the past—it’s about restoring credit where it’s long overdue.
🔔 New episodes every Friday
📺 Watch now at: stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge
🧠 Now you know.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
-
Urbanism2 years agoSignal Hill, California: A Historic Enclave Surrounded by Long Beach
-
News2 years agoDiana Gregory Talks to us about Diana Gregory’s Outreach Services
-
STM Blog2 months agoWorld Naked Gardening Day: Celebrating Body Acceptance and Nature
-
Senior Pickleball Report3 years agoThe Absolute Most Comfortable Pickleball Shoe I’ve Ever Worn!
-
Making a Difference3 years agoAPS BRINGS VOLUNTEER POWER TO SUPPORT VEGGIES-FOR-VETERANS
-
Senior Pickleball Report2 years agoACE PICKLEBALL CLUB TO DEBUT THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED INDOOR PICKLEBALL FRANCHISES IN THE US, IN EARLY 2023
-
Travel2 years agoUnique Experiences at the CitizenM
-
Automotive2 years ago2023 Nissan Sentra pricing starts at $19,950