News
NASA Selects Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab to Drive Lunar Mobility for Artemis Missions
NASA selects Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab to advance lunar mobility for Artemis missions. Lunar terrain vehicle development begins! 🚀🌕 #NASA #Artemis #MoonExploration
NASA’s Artemis program is set to make history by returning humans to the Moon and paving the way for future missions to Mars. In a significant step towards this ambitious goal, NASA has chosen three companies – Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab – to advance the development of a lunar terrain vehicle (LTV). This vehicle will enable astronauts to traverse the lunar surface, conduct scientific research, and prepare for upcoming Artemis missions.
Advancing Lunar Exploration:
The selection of Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab underscores NASA’s commitment to leverage private-sector expertise to enhance lunar capabilities. By partnering with these companies, NASA aims to combine its own rovers’ development experience with commercial innovation, ultimately advancing scientific discovery and long-term human exploration on the Moon.
Key Milestones and Contract Details:
The Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services contract, with a combined maximum value of $4.6 billion, will be delivered to the selected companies as a service from the industry. Each provider will start with a one-year feasibility study to develop a system that meets NASA’s requirements. This study will be followed by a task order proposal, where eligible providers will showcase a demonstration mission to test the LTV’s performance and safety ahead of Artemis V.
Features and Capabilities:
The LTV will be purpose-built to withstand the extreme conditions at the Moon’s South Pole, offering advanced technologies such as power management, autonomous driving, and state-of-the-art communication and navigation systems. Its capabilities will enable astronauts to explore, transport scientific equipment, and collect lunar surface samples. The LTV’s extended range will significantly enhance scientific returns by allowing astronauts to access locations that would be unreachable on foot alone.
A Partnership for Science and Discovery:
Aside from the Artemis missions, the LTV will continue operating remotely to support NASA’s scientific objectives on the Moon. During these periods, the provider will also have the opportunity to utilize the LTV for commercial lunar activities unrelated to NASA missions. This public-private partnership demonstrates NASA’s commitment to expanding lunar exploration beyond government-funded initiatives.
Looking Towards the Future:
Through the Artemis program, NASA plans to send astronauts, including the first woman and the first person of color, to explore the Moon. This undertaking aims to unlock scientific discoveries, drive technological advancements, create economic benefits, and lay the groundwork for future crewed missions to Mars. Alongside advanced rovers, the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft, as well as commercial human landing systems, the LTV serves as a cornerstone for NASA’s ambitious deep space exploration plans.
By strategically partnering with Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab, NASA is taking significant steps towards the realization of its Artemis program objectives. The development of the lunar terrain vehicle will empower astronauts to explore and conduct vital scientific research on the Moon’s surface, paving the way for humanity’s continued exploration of space. With these advancements, NASA is propelling us towards a future where humankind will make remarkable discoveries and eventually set foot on Mars.
Learn more about NASA’s Artemis campaign at:
What is the Artemis Program?
The Artemis program, led by NASA, is a program dedicated to exploring the Moon. It was established in 2017 through Space Policy Directive 1. The program aims to establish a human presence on the Moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. The long-term goal of the program is to establish a permanent base on the Moon, which will facilitate human missions to Mars.
The Artemis program has two main components that were originally part of the now-cancelled Constellation program: the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System, which is a reincarnation of Ares V. Other parts of the program, such as the development of the Lunar Gateway space station and the Human Landing System, are being carried out by both government space agencies and private spaceflight companies. The Artemis Accords and governmental contracts bind all these efforts together in a collaborative effort.
Artemis is a spaceflight program that involves the Space Launch System, Orion spacecraft, and the Human Landing System. The Lunar Gateway is also part of the program and supports human habitation. Additionally, there are supporting infrastructures such as Commercial Lunar Payload Services, VIPER rover, development of ground infrastructure, Artemis Base Camp on the Moon, Moon rovers, and spacesuits. However, some aspects of the program have been criticized, such as the use of the near-rectilinear halo orbit and the sustainability of the space program.
Orion’s first launch on the Space Launch System was originally scheduled for 2016. However, it was rescheduled and finally launched on 16th November 2022 as the Artemis 1 mission. The spacecraft carried robots and mannequins onboard. Artemis 2, the next crewed mission, is planned to launch in late 2025. Artemis 3, which will involve a crewed lunar landing, is scheduled for 2026. The Artemis 4 mission will involve docking with the Lunar Gateway in 2028. After that, yearly landings on the Moon are planned. (Wikipedia)
https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
News
Life Time Teams up with Ben and Collin Johns, and Pickleball 360, to Deliver Educational Pickleball Video Series
CHANHASSEN, Minn., April 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Life Time (NYSE: LTH), the nation’s largest provider of pickleball courts, programming and leagues, today announced it has teamed up with pickleball pros Ben and Collin Johns to provide members from beginner to advanced a series of 70 instructional videos to help take their game to the next level.
Lining up with April being National Pickleball Month and now available on the Life Time app, the videos will help pickleball players of all ages and abilities. Each features demonstrations by Ben and Collin, including:
- Basic pickleball orientation and rules
- Warmups and practice drills
- Singles and doubles dynamics
- Key play movements
- Advanced techniques
“We’re thrilled to team up with Ben and Collin as we serve our growing membership engaging in this incredible sport,” said RJ Singh, Life Time’s Chief Digital Officer and Leader of Life Time Racquet Sports. “In keeping with our member point of view commitment, these videos will help everyone, including those who’ve never picked up a paddle, to advanced players looking to improve their tournament play and grow to the elite level.”
“Life Time has taken pickleball by storm. I’ve had the privilege to play at several of its athletic country clubs and the Rancho San Clemente club is my absolute favorite venue,” said Ben Johns. “We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Life Time as the elite pickleball provider.”
Life Time launched its pickleball presence in 2021 and now has more than 635 permanent courts nationwide. Life Time is the largest owner and operator of both pickleball and tennis courts. It also recently named tennis legend Andre Agassi as its inaugural chair of the Life Time Pickleball and Tennis board.
Pickleball participation shows no signs of slowing down. A 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report says that 36.5 million people have played pickleball at least over the last year. On its courts, Life Time saw a 51% growth of pickleball players in 2023.
You can also learn more on world-champion pickleball player Ben John’s in this Experience Life article.
About Life Time®
Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of more than 170 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The Company’s healthy way of life communities and ecosystem address all aspects of healthy living, healthy aging and healthy entertainment for people 90 days to 90+ years old. Supported by a team of more than 37,000 dedicated professionals, Life Time is committed to providing the best programs and experiences through its clubs, iconic athletic events and comprehensive digital platform.
SOURCE Life Time, Inc.
KAYSVILLE, Utah, April 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Picklr, North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise, announced 276 total units sold to 36 unique direct franchising groups, which amounts to approximately 2,760 indoor courts, as they closed Q1 of 2024. More importantly, their extensively qualified franchising groups will be developing all of these units themselves over the next few years. In addition, 38 new clubs will open across the United States in 23 states, with 52 additional leases in final negotiations for openings in 2024 and 2025.
The beginning of 2024 also saw The Picklr announce a strategic partnership with Pickleball Inc., the parent company to the largest pickleball brands in the world, including the Carvana Professional Pickleball Association (PPA Tour), Pickleball Central, Pickleball Brackets/Pickleball Tournaments, PickleballTV and Pickleball.com. The partnership aligns two of the largest brands in pickleball and will drive franchise growth and new memberships at Picklr locations. In February 2024, Drew Brees was named Brand Ambassador, along with being an investor, as well as Owner/Area Developer of 30 Picklr franchises in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. Drew Brees, Picklr franchise owners, and corporate leadership also appeared at Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, where The Picklr was featured on Extra, discussing how important it is to bring more courts to pickleball players around the country.
As demand for premiere indoor pickleball facilities continues to grow globally, The Picklr’s leadership is in final discussions to bring franchises to an additional three continents while reinforcing their commitment to growing the game near corporate headquarters. Final master franchise agreements will be announced in Q2 for Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union. To support the rapid growth across multiple sectors, The Picklr has elevated their Executive Leadership Team with the promotion of Kathryn Bullough from Senior Vice President of Marketing to Chief Marketing Officer and Chris Walker from VP of Real Estate to Chief Development Office, as well as Madison Walker from Director of Human Resources to VP of People. With these promotions, 50% of the Executive Leadership Team that supports franchisees are female. As the game of pickleball continues to evolve, The Picklr has applied for five provisional patents and has trademarked The Picklr globally and will continue to be the leader in premier indoor pickleball facilities and a global ambassador for the pickleball community and sport. The Picklr will also partner with the Utah Black Diamonds team to operate the first-ever home facility for a professional pickleball team, named the Utah Black Diamonds Pickleball Center, outside of Salt Lake City, Utah
“Q1 was a significant quarter with the franchisees delivering strong EBITDA results on average of 38% along with rapid 62% membership growth with the annual churn rate was less than 12%. These key metrics drive the success of our franchisees. All Picklr’s open with a minimum of 250 founder memberships, but year to date, the new clubs are opening in the 500-600 range, which makes the clubs’ cash flow positive from day one. The Picklr provides outstanding operations and marketing support for all franchisees, to ensure the financial success of existing and all new clubs,” Jonathan Fornaci, President and COO. “We are so pleased with our Q1 results, and as we push into Q2, we look forward to opening new clubs around the country.”
ABOUT THE PICKLR:
At The Picklr, pickleball is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that fosters community, competition, and fun. With over 275 planned state-of-the-art facilities, with professional coaching, clinics, unlimited open play membership model and a vibrant atmosphere, The Picklr offers an unparalleled pickleball experience for players of all skill levels. All locations offer state-of-the-art professional-grade outdoor surfacing, onsite snacks and drinks, and access to free leagues, tournaments, and clinics. Follow The Picklr on Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok for news on locations and contests, or visit https://thepicklr.com/franchise/to learn more about owning a franchise.
SOURCE The Picklr
Automotive
Hyundai 2024 Santa Fe and Kona Win Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX Award
Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe and Kona named winners of Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award.
Exciting news for Hyundai enthusiasts! The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2024 Hyundai Kona have been named winners of the prestigious Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award by WardsAuto. Making Hyundai the only manufacturer with two vehicles on the list.
The Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX competition focuses on identifying driver interfaces that are user-friendly, navigation systems that are easy to program, and smartphone integration that allows for safe access to various features while on the road. This award evaluates the overall quality and comfort of the vehicles’ interiors, as well as the user-friendliness of driver-assist technologies.
This isn’t the first time Hyundai has been recognized by WardsAuto. Last year, the Hyundai Palisade took home an award, cementing the brand’s commitment to creating innovative and desirable vehicle experiences.
The 2024 Hyundai Kona stands out for its dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, offering a versatile interior that is both visually appealing and technologically advanced. With a price point of $35,000, the Kona provides great value for its modernist aesthetic and abundance of features.
The 3-row Santa Fe, on the other hand, impresses with its spacious interior, perfect for urban and outdoor activities. The Calligraphy grade’s ivory and olive-green geometric interior sets a new standard for vehicle interior design, revolutionizing the industry.
Wards judge, Christie Schweinsberg, praises both vehicles for their exceptional features and value. The Kona’s affordability makes it an accessible choice for many, while the Santa Fe’s thoughtful additions such as a drawer for second-row passengers and a UV-C sterilization tray for phones further elevate its appeal.
The evaluations for the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX competition took place during winter and early spring, giving judges ample time to experience the vehicles in their daily driving routines. Metrics such as design and aesthetics, comfort, materials, connectivity, and infotainment are taken into consideration, along with advanced driver-assist system content and overall value.
To celebrate the achievement, the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX awards ceremony will take place on June 6, 2024, during the AutoTech: Detroit Conference. This event promises to be a showcase of innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.
Hyundai continues to listen to its customers and push the boundaries of vehicle design and technology. With these awards, the brand proves its commitment to providing innovative, intuitive, and desirable vehicle experiences.
So if you’re in the market for a Hyundai, the 2024 Santa Fe and Kona should be at the top of your list. Not only do they offer exceptional interiors and user experiences, but they also represent the cutting-edge innovations that Hyundai stands for.
About Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company’s Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai’s 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.
Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok
To access additional content about cars and related topics, please explore the Automotive category on STM Daily News. https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/
About STM Daily News
STM Vlog and Podcast is dedicated to creating content that promotes Social Good. Our platform, Stories This Moment, highlights and profiles individuals who are making a positive impact on the world. From arts and entertainment to science, community activism, events, and philanthropy, we cover a wide range of topics to inspire and uplift our audience. Our goal is to spread positivity and reach people in a meaningful way. Through our engaging video content and informative podcast episodes, we aim to create a community of like-minded individuals who want to make a difference in the world. Join us on our journey to promote Social Good by checking out our STM Vlog and Podcast on YouTube. https://stmdailynews.com/about-us/
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