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Science costs money – research is guided by who funds it and why
Science costs money: Funding is essential for scientific research, shaping its direction and outcomes. Government and private investments drive both basic and applied research, leading to innovation and societal benefits, particularly in health.
Last Updated on October 12, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Ryan Summers, University of North Dakota
Science costs money – research is guided by who funds it and why
Scientists have always needed someone to help foot the bill for their work.
In the 19th century, for example, Charles Darwin made an expensive voyage to the southernmost tip of the Americas, visiting many other places en route, including his famous trek through the Galapagos Islands. The fossil evidence Darwin collected over his five-year journey eventually helped him to think about an infinite variety of species, both past and present.
The HMS Beagle and its crew traversed these places while testing clocks and drawing maps for the Royal Navy, and the voyage was funded by the British government. Darwin’s position as a naturalist aboard the ship was unpaid, but, fortunately, his family’s private assets were enough to cover his living expenses while he focused on his scientific work.
Today, government and private funding both remain important for scientific discoveries and translating knowledge into practical applications.
As a professor of science education, one of my goals while preparing future teachers is to introduce them to the characteristics of scientific knowledge and how it is developed. For decades, there has been a strong consensus in my field that educated citizens also need to know about the nature of the scientific enterprise. This includes understanding who pays for science, which can differ depending on the type of research, and why it matters.
Funding for science is more than just the amount of money. To a large extent, the organizations that fund research set the agenda, and different funders have different priorities. It can also be hard to see the downstream benefits of scientific research, but they typically outweigh the upfront costs.
Basic research leads to new knowledge
Basic research, also called fundamental research, involves systematic study aimed at acquiring new knowledge. Scientists often pursue research that falls into this category without specific applications or commercial objectives in mind.
Of course, it costs money to follow where curiosity leads; scientists need funding to pursue questions about the natural and material world.
About 40% of basic research in the U.S. has been federally funded in recent years. The government makes this investment because basic research is the foundation of long-term innovation, economic growth and societal well-being.
Funding for basic research is distributed by the federal government through several agencies and institutes. For more than a century, the U.S. National Institutes of Health have sponsored a breadth of scientific and health research and education programs. Since 1950, the National Science Foundation has advanced basic research and education programs, including the training of the next generation of scientists.
Other federal agencies have complementary missions, such as the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, created in response to the Soviet Union’s launch of Sputnik in 1957. DARPA focuses on technological innovations for national security, many of which have become fixtures of civilian life.
Through a competitive review process at these agencies, subject experts vet research proposals and make funding recommendations. The amount of funding available from the NIH, NSF and DARPA varies annually, depending on congressional appropriations. Most of the awarded funds go to universities, research institutions and other health and science organizations that conduct research. The sum of research dollars awarded differs among states.
Applying research
Scientists undertake basic research to generate new knowledge with no specific end goal in mind. Applied research is different in that it aims to find solutions to real-world problems.
Research that investigates specific, practical objectives or improvements with commercial potential is more likely to attract private investors. Companies directly invest in research and development to gain a competitive edge and turn a profit. Private industry is more likely to sink dollars into applied rather than basic research because the potential payoff in the form of a new product or advance is more visible.
From discovery to real-world implementation
As applied research addresses problems, promising findings are moved toward clinical application or mainstream use. This research and development process can lead to tangible benefits for individuals and society.
Federal agencies such as the NIH make substantial investments in the basic and applied science underlying new drugs. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies heavily invest in the development of drug candidates. Recent reports have shown that industry has been responsible for 50% or more of the dollars invested in health and biomedical research in recent years. This expenditure includes significant spending to advance clinical trials – the studies that test new medical treatments before they get approved for use.
The NIH funded basic research that contributed to every single drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration between 2010 and 2016. This includes key work that led to COVID-19 vaccines. The COVID-19 vaccination campaign likely saved the U.S. more than $1 trillion in health care expenses that would have otherwise been incurred and also saved lives.
Initial NSF investments in research was instrumental in capturing images of black holes and exploring deep oceans. Basic research funded by NSF paved the way for everyday conveniences such as smartphones, the Google search engine and artificial intelligence. Other funded projects led to quality of life improvements such as American Sign Language and kidney matching for transplants. Educational programming, such as “Bill Nye the Science Guy” and “The Magic School Bus,” were NSF-backed projects, too.
It matters who pays: Funding shapes science
Funders and financial systems shape the trajectory of research across fields. Institutions advertise funding opportunities based on their current priorities. Changes in the amount of funding available ultimately direct the attention of researchers. Any interruptions to basic research, such as changes to financial supports or institutions, may threaten future discoveries and potential payoffs for years to come.
According to numbers reported by a coalition of research institutions, every dollar that NIH spends on research leads to $2.56 of new economic activity. For the 2024 fiscal year, this means, of the $47.35 billion Congress appropriated for NIH, the $36.94 billion awarded to U.S. researchers fueled $94 billion in activity through employment and the purchase of research-related goods and services.
Economist Pierre Azoulay and colleagues recently imagined an alternative history where NIH was 40% smaller and dispersed less money – a budget akin to current federal proposals. They argued that more than half of the drugs FDA approved since 2000 are tied to NIH-funded research that would have been cut under this scenario. This thought experiment underscores how valuable those basic research dollars are. https://www.youtube.com/embed/xk94il8L820?wmode=transparent&start=1369 ‘Last Week Tonight with John Oliver’ points out some seemingly outlandish basic research that has yielded surprising real-world applications.
Even seemingly out-of-touch or abstract studies may precede discoveries with major impact. Basic research into bee nectar foraging and movement around the colony, recently mentioned on “Last Week Tonight with John Oliver,” led to the development of an algorithm that distributes internet traffic between computer servers, which now powers the multibillion-dollar web-hosting industry. Learning about applications of research with visible societal impacts can help people understand and appreciate the role of funding in the scientific enterprise.
Ryan Summers, Associate Professor of Science Education, University of North Dakota
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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aerospace
Boom Supersonic Update 2026: Overture Progress, XB-1 Milestones, and What’s Next
Boom Supersonic’s 2026 update: XB-1 test success, Overture production timeline, funding progress, and the challenges facing the return of commercial supersonic travel.
By STM Daily News Staff
The race to bring back commercial supersonic travel is accelerating once again, led by Boom Supersonic, a Colorado-based aerospace company aiming to succeed where Concorde left off. As of 2026, the company has achieved meaningful technical milestones—but still faces significant financial, regulatory, and industrial hurdles.
Here’s a comprehensive look at where Boom stands today, and what it means for the future of high-speed air travel.
XB-1 Demonstrator Completes Historic Test Program
Boom’s experimental aircraft, the XB-1, has successfully completed its flight test campaign, marking a critical step toward validating the company’s supersonic technology.
- Achieved multiple supersonic flights in 2025
- Demonstrated aerodynamic stability and performance
- Tested “boomless cruise” capabilities to reduce sonic disturbances
The XB-1 program served as a scaled demonstrator for the company’s flagship commercial jet, proving that modern materials, software, and engine integration can support efficient supersonic flight.
With testing complete, the aircraft is expected to be preserved as a prototype, representing a turning point in private-sector aerospace innovation.
Overture: Boom’s Commercial Supersonic Jet
The centerpiece of Boom’s vision is the Overture, a next-generation supersonic passenger aircraft designed to carry between 60 and 80 passengers at speeds approaching Mach 1.7.
Current projected timeline:
- Prototype rollout: Targeted for 2026
- First flight: Expected around 2027
- Commercial service entry: Late 2020s (estimated 2029–2030)
Unlike Concorde, which catered primarily to elite travelers, Boom aims to position Overture with business-class pricing, potentially expanding access to faster global travel.
The aircraft is also being designed with sustainability in mind, including compatibility with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Funding and Financial Momentum
In recent developments, Boom Supersonic secured an additional $100 million in funding, reinforcing investor confidence in the company’s long-term vision.
However, building a supersonic passenger aircraft remains one of the most capital-intensive challenges in aviation. Continued fundraising and strategic partnerships will be essential as the company moves from prototype to production.
Boomless Cruise: A Potential Game-Changer
One of Boom’s most significant innovations is its focus on “boomless cruise,” a method of flying supersonically without producing an audible sonic boom on the ground.
If proven viable at scale, this technology could influence regulatory changes—particularly in the United States, where overland supersonic flight is currently restricted.
The ability to fly faster-than-sound over land would unlock major domestic routes, dramatically reducing travel times between cities like New York and Los Angeles.
Manufacturing Challenges and Delays
Despite technical progress, Boom’s manufacturing ambitions face uncertainty. A planned production facility in North Carolina has experienced delays, raising questions about when large-scale assembly will begin.
Scaling production from prototype to commercial aircraft remains one of the most difficult phases of any aerospace program, requiring supply chain coordination, workforce development, and regulatory alignment.
Industry Skepticism Remains
While Boom has secured interest from major airlines, skepticism persists within the aviation industry.
Key concerns include:
- Certification complexity and regulatory approval timelines
- Operational costs versus ticket pricing
- Long-term demand for supersonic travel
Even airline executives have expressed cautious optimism, with some suggesting the project’s success remains uncertain.
The Bigger Picture: A Defining Decade for Supersonic Travel
Boom Supersonic has moved beyond concept and into real-world testing, demonstrating that modern supersonic flight is technically achievable.
However, the next phase—bringing Overture to market—will determine whether supersonic passenger travel becomes a viable industry once again or remains an ambitious experiment.
If successful, Boom could redefine global travel times. If not, it will join a long list of bold aerospace ventures that struggled to overcome economic reality.
Sources and External Links
- Boom Supersonic – Year in Review
- XB-1 Aircraft Overview
- Overture Aircraft Specifications
- Funding Announcement
- Industry Perspective
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/
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.
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
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/
Science
New Glenn’s Third Mission Set for April 19 as Blue Origin Advances Commercial Space Capabilities
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin has confirmed the launch window for the third mission of its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket, marking another step forward in the company’s expanding role in commercial spaceflight.
New Glenn’s Third Mission
Launch Details and Timeline
The mission is scheduled to lift off no earlier than Sunday, April 19, 2026, from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The two-hour launch window opens at 6:45 a.m. EDT (10:45 UTC) and closes at 8:45 a.m. EDT (12:45 UTC).
Viewers can follow the mission through a live webcast hosted by Blue Origin, beginning approximately 30 minutes before liftoff.
Mission Payload: Expanding Space-Based Connectivity
At the heart of the mission is the deployment of the BlueBird 7 satellite, developed by AST SpaceMobile. The satellite is designed to enhance a growing direct-to-smartphone broadband network, an emerging technology aimed at delivering connectivity to standard mobile devices without the need for ground-based towers.
BlueBird 7 will contribute to expanding network capacity and is expected to support initial service rollout plans targeted for 2026. The broader initiative reflects a significant shift in how satellite infrastructure could complement terrestrial telecom systems, particularly in underserved or remote regions.
Reusability Milestone: Booster Returns Again
A key feature of this mission is the planned reuse of New Glenn’s first-stage booster, “Never Tell Me The Odds.” The booster previously demonstrated a successful launch and landing during the rocket’s second mission in November, underscoring Blue Origin’s commitment to reusable rocket technology—a cornerstone of cost reduction and operational efficiency in modern spaceflight.
If successful, this mission will further validate the reliability of the New Glenn system and strengthen its competitiveness in a market increasingly shaped by reusable launch vehicles.
Industry Context: Competing in a Rapidly Evolving Market
The New Glenn program represents Blue Origin’s answer to heavy-lift launch demands, positioning the company alongside major players such as SpaceX. As satellite constellations grow in scale and ambition, reliable and cost-effective launch services have become a critical component of the global space economy.
The inclusion of commercial payloads like BlueBird 7 highlights the increasing collaboration between aerospace firms and telecommunications providers, signaling a future where space-based infrastructure plays a central role in everyday connectivity.
Looking Ahead
With its third mission, New Glenn continues to build momentum as a next-generation launch platform. The combination of reusable hardware, commercial partnerships, and advanced payload capabilities places this launch among the most closely watched developments in the 2026 spaceflight calendar.
For ongoing updates, mission tracking, and live coverage, audiences can follow Blue Origin across its digital platforms or visit its official website.
Source
Blue Origin Official Announcement – New Glenn Third Mission
Related External Links
- Learn More About Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket
- AST SpaceMobile – Space-Based Cellular Broadband Network
- Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Information
- NASA Overview of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Operations
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