Daily News

NASA’s Psyche Mission Achieves Milestone with Laser Communication from Space

NASA’s Psyche mission achieves milestone with deep space laser communication, paving the way for faster and more efficient exploration.

Published

1 year ago

November 26, 2023

Rod Washington

1 PIA25664 DSOC FLT.width 1320 — NASA’s Psyche spacecraft is shown in a clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations facility near the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Dec. 8, 2022. DSOC’s gold-capped flight laser transceiver can be seen, near the center, attached to the spacecraft.
Credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky

NASA’s Psyche mission has reached a significant milestone by successfully demonstrating the most distant laser communications in space. This groundbreaking technology experiment, conducted aboard the Psyche spacecraft, holds the potential to revolutionize NASA’s missions and deepen our understanding of the universe’s origins. In this blog post, we will explore the recent achievements of the Deep Space Optical Communications technology demonstration (DSOC) and its implications for future space exploration.

The DSOC Experiment:
Launched in October, the Psyche mission aims to explore a metal asteroid located in the outer region of the main asteroid belt, between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Accompanying the spacecraft is the DSOC, designed to test high-bandwidth laser communications. Unlike traditional radio wave systems, the invisible near-infrared laser used in DSOC has the potential to transmit data at speeds 10 to 100 times faster.

NASA to Discuss Optical Communications Demo Riding with Psyche

https://q5i.09c.myftpupload.com/nasa-to-discuss-optical-communications-demo-riding-with-psyche/

First Light Achievement:
The DSOC recently achieved a significant milestone called “first light.” Engineers successfully sent and received data encoded in a laser beam from a distance of nearly 10 million miles (16 million kilometers) away. The laser signal traveled to the Hale Telescope at the California Institute of Technology’s Palomar Observatory, surpassing the distance of the moon from Earth by a factor of 40. This achievement marks a critical step towards advancing communication technology for future human missions to Mars.

Implications for Deep Space Communication:
The successful demonstration of laser communications across deep space opens new possibilities for the transmission of scientific information, high-definition imagery, and even streaming video. With the potential to transmit data at unprecedented speeds, laser communications could significantly enhance scientific research and exploration efforts. These advancements would enable scientists and researchers to gather more data and make groundbreaking discoveries about our universe.

The Future of Laser Communications:
While laser communications have been tested in space before, DSOC’s achievement marks the first successful attempt at sending laser signals across deep space. This feat demonstrates the precision required to aim and point laser beams over millions of miles. Moving forward, the DSOC team will focus on refining the laser’s pointing accuracy and further optimizing the system.

Challenges and Future Prospects:
As the Psyche spacecraft continues its journey, the DSOC team will face challenges such as the time it takes for laser messages to travel across vast distances. Despite these obstacles, the potential benefits of optical communication in deep space are immense. By utilizing laser technology, NASA can transmit larger amounts of data, leading to more significant discoveries and advancements in space exploration.

NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, soars into the sky after lifting off from Kennedy Space Center’s historic Launch Complex 39A in Florida at 10:19 a.m. EDT on Oct. 13, 2023.

NASA’s Psyche mission and the DSOC experiment have achieved a remarkable milestone with the successful demonstration of laser communications from deep space. This breakthrough paves the way for faster, more efficient data transmission in future space missions, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the universe and aiding in the exploration of Mars and beyond. As the mission progresses, scientists and engineers will continue to refine this technology, unlocking new frontiers in space exploration and research.

NASA’s Deep Space Optical Comm Demo Sends, Receives First Data https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasas-deep-space-optical-comm-demo-sends-receives-first-data

Author

Rod Washington

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts

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Related Topics:deep space laser communication NASA Psyche mission

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Rod Washington

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.

Consumer Corner

Capital One Customers Face Issues with Direct Deposits: What You Need to Know

Published

4 days ago

January 16, 2025

Rod Washington

On Thursday, a significant number of Capital One customers reported problems with their direct deposits, causing concern for many who rely on timely access to their funds. As of Thursday morning, more than 2,000 users had expressed frustration over the banking service’s failure to show their expected direct deposits, according to Down Detector, a reputable platform that tracks website and app outages.

By the afternoon, it appeared that some progress had been made, with reports of outages reducing to just over 1,700 by 4:10 p.m. Eastern Time. However, for those affected, the issue created a tense situation, as direct deposits are often critical for managing monthly bills and living expenses.

@stmblog
🚨 Having issues with direct deposits? We’re here to help! Contact our support team for quick assistance. #CustomerSupport #CapitalOne ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

Real Concerns from Real Customers

Social media was abuzz with complaints, as many customers turned to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustrations. One user summed up the sentiment succinctly: “Some of us have bills to pay and groceries to buy. At least keep us in the loop.” This highlights not only the inconvenience of the technical issue but also the anxiety it causes for individuals who count on their bank to provide reliable services.

Capital One’s Response

In response to the outcry, Capital One acknowledged the issue and assured its customers that it was actively working to resolve the glitch. While specific details about the nature of the technical difficulties have not been disclosed, the bank has expressed its commitment to restoring normal operations as quickly as possible. As financial tech failures can prompt feelings of mistrust, transparency in communication is key during these situations.

What Should Affected Customers Do?

For Capital One customers experiencing issues with their direct deposits, here are a few steps to consider:

Check for Updates: Stay informed by checking Capital One’s official social media channels and website for updates regarding the technical issues.
Contact Customer Support: If you haven’t received your expected payment, contact Capital One’s customer service for clarification on your account status.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your bank account for updates on your direct deposit status and any other service announcements.
Plan for Contingencies: If you anticipate payments may be delayed, consider adjusting your budget temporarily to accommodate any unexpected expenses.

Conclusion

Banking issues like those experienced by Capital One customers on Thursday serve as a reminder of our reliance on financial institutions for our everyday needs. While banks strive to deliver seamless services, technical hiccups can happen. For now, it’s crucial for customers to remain patient and informed as Capital One works diligently to resolve the situation and restore access to their funds.

If you’ve been affected, share your experience and solutions. Community support during these times can make all the difference!

CBS News Reporting on the issue: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/capital-one-direct-deposit-issues/

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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City

Developments in Phoenix: Valley Metro Begins Testing Trains on South Central Extension!

Published

6 days ago

January 15, 2025

Rod Washington

Great news for the residents of south-central Phoenix! As of November, 2024, Valley Metro has officially begun testing trains on the highly anticipated South Central Extension of the light rail. This new 5.5-mile route is set to enhance access to public transportation, connecting downtown Phoenix all the way to Baseline Road—bringing convenience and mobility to more neighborhoods than ever before!

Connecting Communities

The South Central Extension is more than just a transportation project; it’s a lifeline for connecting communities within Phoenix. By bridging the gap between downtown and southern areas of the city, Valley Metro aims to provide a seamless travel experience for commuters, students, and visitors alike. With access points along Washington and Jefferson streets, as well as 1st, 3rd, and Central avenues, this expansion is set to make daily commuting smoother and more efficient.

Safety First!

As trains start to roll out during this initial testing phase, safety remains a top priority. Valley Metro has issued important safety tips for both pedestrians and motorists to ensure everyone stays safe throughout the process:

Follow Traffic Signals: Always obey traffic signals and make use of designated crosswalks when crossing streets near the light rail.
Stay Alert: Listen for warning signals and train sounds. Light rail trains can approach quickly and quietly, so being attentive is crucial.
Keep Off the Tracks: Remember, light rail trains are designed to be silent, making it easy to overlook them. Avoid standing on or near the tracks—stay safe and keep a respectful distance.
Platform Access: Please refrain from entering the new station platforms during this testing phase as they are currently closed. Your safety and the safety of our testing crews is paramount.

Get Ready for 2025!

As testing ramps up towards the projected opening in mid-2025, excitement is building across the city. Whether you commute for work, school, or leisure, the South Central Extension promises to provide more accessible and efficient public transportation options. It’s a step forward in creating a more connected and vibrant Phoenix!

Stay tuned for updates from Valley Metro regarding the progress of the South Central Extension, and let’s celebrate the strides we’re taking towards a more connected, sustainable future. Phoenix, your public transport experience is about to get a whole lot better! 🚆✨

https://www.valleymetro.org/project/south-central-extension-downtown-hub

https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/valley-metro-testing-trains-new-expansion-into-south-phoenix/75-e832f4b8-bb44-4942-9cd9-b4604a7bd403

https://stmdailynews.com/

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News

Kohl’s Announces Closure of 27 Underperforming Stores by April 2025: What This Means for the Retail Giant

Published

1 week ago

January 11, 2025

Lynette Young, Daily News Staff

Kohl's store closures — Image Credit: Kingofthedead

In a significant move to bolster its long-term viability, Kohl’s has announced the closure of 27 underperforming stores across the United States by April 2025. This decision comes at a time when the retail landscape is continuously evolving, and industry giants like Sears and JCPenney are stark reminders of what can happen when businesses fail to adapt.

Why the Closures Matter

As department store chains face increasing pressure from online retailers and changing consumer habits, maintaining a lean and efficient operation is crucial. Tom Kingsbury, Kohl’s outgoing CEO, emphasized the importance of making difficult choices to ensure the health and future of the business. By selectively closing stores, Kohl’s aims to avoid the pitfalls that have befallen some of its rivals in recent years.

The closures represent less than 3% of Kohl’s approximately 1,150 locations, which shows that while the company is taking action, it’s also confident in the strength of its remaining stores. Kingsbury, who is set to step down on January 15th, will be handing over the reins to Ashley Buchanan, the current CEO of Michaels, signaling a potential shift in strategy as Kohl’s forges ahead.

The List of Closures

The upcoming store closures span multiple states, with several locations concentrated in California and Illinois. Below is a detailed rundown of the locations set to close:

Alabama: Spanish Fort – 21000 Town Center Ave.
Arkansas: Little Rock West – 13909 Chenal Parkway
California: Multiple locations, including San Diego, Mountain View, and Pleasanton among others.
Colorado: Arapahoe Crossing (Aurora) – 6584 S Parker Road
Georgia: Duluth – 2050 W Liddell Road
Idaho: Boise – 400 N Milwaukee St.
Illinois: Plainfield and West Dundee (Spring Hill).
Massachusetts: Stoughton – 501 Technology Center Drive
New Jersey: East Windsor – 72 Princeton Hightstown Road
Ohio: Blue Ash and Cincinnati (Forest Park).
Oregon: Portland Gateway – 10010 NE Halsey St.
Pennsylvania: Pottstown – 351 W Schuylkill Road
Texas: North Dallas – 18224 Preston Road
Utah: Riverton – 13319 S 3600 W
Virginia: Herndon and Williamsburg.

These closures reflect ongoing efforts to optimize Kohl’s portfolio, ensuring that its resources are concentrated in locations with the highest potential for growth.

@stmblog
📉 Kohl’s announces store closures, 🏬 shifting focus to e-commerce, 💡 led by CEO Tom Kingsbury, 🔍 adapting retail strategy, 🤝 prioritizing custome ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

The Bigger Picture

While the closures are indeed a challenge, they also present an opportunity for reinvention. As Kohl’s looks to sharpen its focus and adapt to changing consumer preferences, the company may shift resources toward strengthening its e-commerce platform, enhancing customer experience, and introducing more innovative store formats.

Kohl’s has already shown a willingness to experiment with partnerships and unique retail concepts, such as collaborations with major brands and shifts towards becoming a more experience-driven shopping environment. These closures may enable the chain to move forward with a more agile and responsive strategy.

Looking Ahead

As Kohl’s navigates this transitional period and under incoming leadership, all eyes will be on how it capitalizes on its strengths while learning from the complexities of the retail industry. The decisions made now could shape the future of the brand and its ability to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Ultimately, consumers can expect to see a more streamlined and efficient Kohl’s that is better equipped to meet the demands of the modern shopper. As the company moves through these changes, one thing is certain: it’s committed to evolving while keeping its loyal customers at the heart of its strategy.