News August 14, 2024
This Gargantuan Lab Simulates Blasting Satellites Into Space
Satellites face an incredible challenge as they zoom around our planet at breakneck speeds of up to 17,000 miles per hour, enduring the harsh conditions of space while trying to precisely align their antennae back towards Earth. Before embarking on this perilous journey, satellites undergo rigorous testing to ensure every loose bolt is tightened and all electrical systems are functioning flawlessly. The newly opened National Satellite Test Facility in Oxfordshire, UK, offers a one-stop-shop for satellite manufacturers to conduct comprehensive tests under one roof.
The facility’s centerpiece is the massive vacuum test chamber, which can simulate the extreme conditions of space by lowering pressure to just 0.000001 millibars and temperatures ranging from -180 to 130 degrees Celsius. Satellites will spend weeks or months inside this chamber to ensure they can withstand the harsh environment of outer space.
After the vacuum test, satellites will be subjected to intense vibration and acoustic testing, where they’ll be shaken violently by electromagnetic engines simulating the conditions of launch, exposing any loose components. The facility’s giant speaker wall then blasts satellites with up to 146 decibels of white noise, mimicking the cacophony of rocket engines during liftoff.
Finally, satellite antennae are tested in a room lined with 40,000 insulating foam spikes, where they’re focused onto a receiver to check their ability to beam signals back down to Earth despite immense distances and speeds.
Supplements Companies Are Cashing In on the Ozempic Wave
The supplement industry has long been intertwined with weight-loss products, and now they’re capitalizing on the popularity of GLP-1 agonist drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide. These supplements are marketed as complementary to prescription meds or as alternatives, promising to alleviate side effects and support metabolic health. Companies like Nestlé and Vitamin Shoppe offer a range of products, from probiotics and fiber to multivitamins, designed to work in tandem with GLP-1 drugs. Meanwhile, meal delivery services like Daily Harvest and BistroMD cater specifically to patients taking these medications. Even physicians are getting in on the action, launching their own lines of supplements aimed at people taking GLP-1 meds. With side effects like gastrointestinal distress and muscle loss common among users of these prescription drugs, it’s no wonder that supplement companies are eager to capitalize on this trend.
HMD Skyline Review: The First Qi2 Android Smartphone
As I eagerly anticipated the arrival of Qi2 wireless charging on Android devices in 2024, I was thrilled to discover that HMD’s Skyline is the world’s first Qi2-certified phone on the market. This innovative device not only boasts magnetic charging capabilities but also allows for user-repairability and comes in a bold neon-pink hue. However, my excitement was short-lived as I encountered issues with the magnetic attachment and charging process. Despite being backward compatible with Qi chargers, the Skyline’s magnetic coils may not align properly, requiring the purchase of a Qi2 charger. While this limitation is frustrating, it’s reassuring to know that there are solutions available. Nevertheless, the phone’s magnetic connection strength leaves much to be desired, causing it to tilt and rotate when attached to a wireless charging stand. Despite these drawbacks, the Skyline remains an otherwise solid Android device with a sleek design, microSD card slot, and 256 GB of internal storage.
Instagram is failing to protect female politicians from abuse and anti-hate speech
Vice President Kamala Harris was among the 10 female politicians scrutinized by the Center for Countering Digital Hate’s recent study on Instagram’s handling of online abuse. The research found that one in 25 comments on these women’s posts are “highly likely” to be toxic, with a staggering 93% of reported abusive comments going unaddressed. This lack of action normalizes hate speech and can deter women from pursuing political careers. The CCDH is urging Instagram to enforce its community guidelines more transparently and provide support for female politicians facing online abuse.
How to wean your toddler off a tablet
It all starts with good intentions - you’re trying to calm your fussy toddler with a tablet, but new research suggests that this short-term solution may lead to long-term problems. A study found that excessive tablet use at age three-and-a-half is linked to increased anger in children by the time they’re five-and-a-half. The findings suggest that providing toddlers with tablets, especially when they’re upset, can backfire and hinder their emotional regulation skills. Instead of relying on screens, parents should focus on supportive interactions and play-based activities to help their children develop these essential skills. By transitioning away from tablet use and adopting alternative strategies for managing emotions, parents can set their kids up for success in the long run.