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Why did NASA's Swift Observatory fall to Earth?
Science

Why did NASA's Swift Observatory fall to Earth?

NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, a 3,200-pound spacecraft launched in November 2004, met its end on November 4, 2026, burning up in Earth's atmosphere over Indonesia. The observatory was designed to study powerful cosmic explosions like gamma-ray bursts, but atmospheric drag, intensified by recent solar activity, caused it to descend from orbit. While most of the observatory likely vaporized, the uncontrolled reentry raised questions about space debris and the safety of aging satellites.

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How does Google's Project Suncatcher satellite work?

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Why is Anthropic filing for its IPO now?
Business

Why is Anthropic filing for its IPO now?

AI research company Anthropic has publicly filed its S-1 investor prospectus, a key step before its initial public offering (IPO) expected later this fall. The filing, made on Monday, October 26, 2026, provides potential investors with a detailed look at the company's financial health, operational costs, and strategic risks. This move signals Anthropic's readiness to transition from a privately held startup to a publicly traded entity, aiming to capitalize on the intense investor interest in the artificial intelligence sector.

9d ago

How will NASA test its Artemis moon landers before astronauts launch?
Science

How will NASA test its Artemis moon landers before astronauts launch?

NASA is accelerating its timeline for returning humans to the Moon, aiming for astronaut landings by 2026. This ambitious goal hinges on the successful development and testing of new lunar landers. To meet this deadline, the space agency is streamlining its testing protocols, drawing inspiration from the urgent pace of the Apollo program. This accelerated approach means that critical tests for the Artemis program's lunar landers will be conducted with a heightened sense of urgency, prioritizing speed and efficiency to ensure crewed missions can proceed on schedule.

10d ago

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What happens if Democrats win Congress and investigate Elon Musk's DOGE?

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