The Federal Aviation Administration announced Friday that it is moving to fine SpaceX $175,000 for failing to submit key data on a Falcon 9 rocket's trajectory ahead of a launch last August.
Why it matters: Thousands of objects are tracked in orbit today, including functional satellites, space junk and spent rocket bodies. Understanding a rocket's trajectory helps keep the rocket and spacecraft in orbit safe.
Quantum sensing devices that can gather ultra-precise data are being readied to test in the sky — and could define warfare and intelligence gathering in the 21st century.
Why it matters: Quantum computing usually gets the attention — and most of the funding — but quantum sensors are advancing quickly and are expected to be deployed sooner.
Thwaites Glacier, the largest glacier in West Antarctica, is melting faster in some spots than its shape would at first suggest, new studies show.
Why it matters: Thwaites tops the list of glaciers that keep polar scientists up at night. If it were to disintegrate into the ocean, the portions of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet it holds back could raise global sea levels by up to 10 feet.
/2023/02/16/1676579189491.gif?w=3840)
