Category Archives: Space Travel

Luxury stores with the most beautiful interiors - Luxebook Luxury stores with the most beautiful interiors - Luxebook Arushi Sakhuja and Jade CrastoThe link between retail stores and architecture has always been very strong. For this reason, many brands have taken the help of several famous designers to design their luxury stores to make it an experience. The result? A series of boutiques around the world that look like art installations. LuxeBook takes you through the most remarkable and intriguing shop interiors from pool-inspired designs to opulent chandeliers and sculptures. Are you a design enthusiast? A traveller? Then these stores will leave you awe-inspired. Burberry Mykonos, GreeceBurberry GreeceThe Burberry pop-up store in Nammos Village gives you a glimpse of true Mediterranean aesthetic. Immersed in nature, the structure is presented with a palette of pistachio green and beige and is enriched with blue and pink summer shades. Throughout the store, fixtures and details are built with a variety of materials and textures, from plywood to mirrored, glossy finishes and a dash of greenery. The outdoor terrace features a wooden pergola inspired by traditional Mykonos buildings, with TB Summer Monogram blue siding. The ground floor features a blank canvas wall where visitors can add illustrations and custom tags, similar to the Burberry Bond Street store.Glossier, SeattleGlossier, SeattleLocated in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood and designed by Glossiers in-house team, the 2,800-square-foot retail space is the brands largest physical store to date. A large sculpture at the centre of the space is designed to look like a boulder covered in moss and colourful mushrooms, influenced by the flora of the Pacific Northwest region. This is based on a landscape installation created by designer Lily Kwong for the pop-up and a terraced hill is evoked by a stack of flat thin cushions upholstered in various green textiles and leathers along the large store windows. Walls around the store are finished in light-toned textured walls and beige and dusty-pink tiles cover the floor. On the exterior, doors and window trims are painted a dark blush hue to match the Glossier logo and contrast the buildings cream brickwork, making it look palatial. Aesop, Hong KongAesop, Hong KongAesop has added yet another store to its extensive retail network in Hong Kong. The store features an interior design by architecture practice Nadaaa from Boston. Evoking a refined state of construction, Aesop reflects an immersive sense of calm, by drawing on a neutral, natural palette. With extensive use of raw materials and exposed finishes, the store uses beams of reclaimed Oak shelves set on blackened steel frames, offering a wonderful textual interplay. An elongated sink of oxidised copper punctuates the sophisticated industrial aesthetic.Dolce & Gabbana Rome, ItalyDolce & Gabbana Rome, ItalyDolce & Gabbana is well known for its exaggerated designs that steer clear of sobriety. Over the years the brand has designed the image of a new Italian aesthetic in the world. Their boutique in Piazza di Spagna, in Rome, the heart of the Eternal City, the capital of Italian history and culture, could not be less. Housed within the walls of a majestic sixteenth-century palace, the shop looks like a real Roman temple made of marble, mosaics and frescoes. A digitalised fresco depicting Greek gods is the focal point of luxury fashion brands store. Set within a 16th-century palazzo the store reflects a city synonymous with magnificence and uniqueness. Circular mosaics have also been embedded into the high-gloss floors, inscribed with the words paradise, love and beauty.Selexyz Dominicanen Maastricht, NetherlandsSelexyz Dominicanen Maastricht, NetherlandsThe contemporary building interior of the Bookstore Selexyz Dominicanen was designed by Merkx+Girod architects in Maastricht, Netherlands for the Dutch booksellers Selexyz Dominicanen. Merkx+Girod were commissioned by the Dutch booksellers to convert the interior of the former Dominican Church in Maastricht into a modern bookstore. The interior design takes advantage of the spatial magnificence of the churchs architecture. To satisfy BGNs need for 1,200 m2 of selling space and given that the churchs floor area is of only 750 m2, Evelyn Merkx and Patrice Girod thought to insert an oversized walk-in bookcase. In order to preserve the character of the church while achieving the desired commercial square footage, the architects decided to insert an oversized walk-in bookcase where the books are kept. The lighting, which is an all but integral part of the stores design, manifests itself in the chorus by way of a traditional chandelier above the crucifix-shaped table located in the caf area.Gavello Nel Blu, Mykonos, GreeceGavello Nel Blu, Mykonos, GreeceGavello Nel Blu, designed by SAINT OF ATHENS, is a jewellery store with an interior that resembles a real swimming pool: light blue tiles. This jewellery shop on the Greek island of Mykonos was designed to resemble a 1960s swimming pool. Creative agency Saint of Athens worked with Dive Architects on the project for Italian brand Gavello to make the store stand out from its neighbours.As you enter the shop, you get the impression that you are swimming in an empty pool. The walls and floors are made of light blue tiles, and a ladder and beach balls stamped with the brands logo decorate this soothing world. There are also lockers to store your things and red and white striped cushions. The architects have also included other accessories such as mirrors, display cases, and display cones for an even greater vacation feel! Innovative, isnt it? The jewelry is displayed on a rectangular table in the centre of the store as well as inside four niches embedded into the blue tiled walls. The goal behind the design of this store was to show that with a few square meters, you can create a surreal and innovative space while still representing the image of a brand. That you can create a store in which you want to enter into.Moniker, OsloMoniker, OsloMoniker Fashion Universe, in Oslo, is a 1,500-square-metre concept store that Norwegian design studio Snhetta said is supposed to feel like a treasure hunt. Called Moniker Fashion Universe the 1,500-metre-square concept store is located in the heart of Oslos shopping district, near the newly renovated Valkyrien Square. Fixed partition walls create a maze of rooms set within a different visual universe built around different personality traits and based on, for example, space travel, motor racing and the French Riviera. Just like the womenswear department, which is split into five zones that are built around five different personality traits, Moniker Man is split into two distinct zones built around the character traits of sensitive and ambitious. Featuring striped fabrics, plenty of foliage and a lilac and yellow colour palette, Delons zone takes its design cues from the French Riviera. According to the studio, the playful design of this zone is designed to challenge our conception of what falls into the categories of feminine and masculine. In the ambitious zone, which pays homage to Paul Newman, the design team created a classic ambience through a luxurious material palette. This is contrasted with industrial materials that nod to the racing industry.Idli by Thierry Journo Jaipur, IndiaIdli by Thierry Journo Jaipur, IndiaExperience Jaipur through a contemporary lens at lifestyle boutique Idli, the brainchild of French designer Thierry Journo. The theatrical space features trompe loeil canopy and breezy palm tree murals, where handmade furnishings and hand-painted vases mingle with colourful fashion creations. The new store, on Subhash Marg, in C-Schemethe citys poshest residential areais filled with light and showcases his work at stints as a copyist at the Louvre, in collaborations with Thierry Mugler and Andree Putman, and as an illustrator for John Galliano.The space comes alive with doorways that are framed by striped, trompe loeil canopies, tropical palms and grass on the wall and paper lanterns in a rainbow of colours hanging from the ceiling. The entire effect is fantastical, quintessentially French. Sabyasachi, New YorkInto the world of SabyasachiSabyasachi built its first international store in the United States in the West Village of New York. The store is intended to depict Mukherjees trip from Kolkata to New York and to showcase the opulent richness for which his creations are recognised. The store reflects a classic look, suited to the modern customer, and is inspired by historic residences and palaces of the Indian metropolis. The corridors are filled from floor to ceiling with framed paintings influenced by Persian dynasty Qajar art, 16th-century Mughal miniatures, Indian Pichhwais, and antique pictures. Glass chandeliers hung low from the ceiling illuminated this decked-out maze, where tables were overflowing with food served on silvera custom arrangement for the event.JJ Valaya, AerocityPhoto Courtesy: JJ ValayaFar from the frantic throng, the flagship shop has various design schools. The master couturier created, developed and designed everything in the store, which takes a maximalist but never gaudy approach to design. The store contains a tiny reception area and a jewellery department featuring Aulerth and the new bridge-to-luxury brand, JJV. A winding staircase brings you to the actual treasure, which has equal room for his couture and home lines. The shop is adorned with the designers photographic works, and his home space is an expression of his passion for photography, travel, and all things luxurious. With over three decades of experience in the business, the designer is an institution in his own right, and his designs have a luxurious, old feel to them. A room is dedicated to some of his most expensive and complex bridal lehengas, which are displayed in a museum-style setting and coupled with beautiful dupattas and shawls. He recognises the need for a bridge or pret companies that cater to other minor events, as well as curate travel outfits. JJ Valayas charm is that it is maximalist yet the needlework is ageless.Arjun Kilachand, Mumbai

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Luxury stores with the most beautiful interiors - Luxebook

If time is one of the four dimensions of the Universe, why can we only travel forward in time?

Its true that we live in four dimensions, with three dimensions of space and one of time.

However, the time dimension is different to the three space dimensions because of the way we choose to define it and the way the Universe is constructed.

Nevertheless, one of the remarkable features of physics is that travel into the past does appear to be possible.

A wormhole could make backwards time travel possible. Credit: Mark Garlick / Science Photo Library / Getty Images

According to Einstein, time flows more slowly in stronger gravity.

Imagine two people, one on Earth and the other near a black hole, where time flows more slowly because of the stronger gravity.

We view them on Monday, but by the time the person on Earth reaches Friday, the person near the black hole has only reached Wednesday.

If there was a bridge between the two and Einsteins theory permits one known as a wormhole it would be possible for the person on Earth to travel back from Friday to Wednesday.

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Is it really possible to travel back in time? - BBC Sky at Night Magazine

view from Mars Getty Images / Nzoka John

Is it time for humans to inhabit space? SpaceX and NASA certainly think so. Elon Musk's space company had its first rocket test flight and Musk has been vocal about his goal to reach Mars. NASA has also made strides towards space habitation byannouncing the crew manning the next mission to the moon and unveiling 3D-printed habitats for four people to live like they would on Mars.

The moon is also viewed as the next colonizable territory for the world, which has launched the U.S. into a fierce space race with China. NASA's Artemis mission aims to get people to the moon once again and use that knowledge to "take the next giant leap: sending the first astronauts to Mars." While the effort has set into high gear, there are plenty of critics of space colonization.

Some argue that there are far too many hurdles to jump before we can actually inhabit space, while others see it as the way of the future.

So far, much of our exploration of space has been through robots and technology, however, humans "canmovefasterthanrobotsandmakequickerdecisions," NASA chief scientist James Green told Upfront. This could allow for Mars and the moon to be studied and analyzed far faster and more efficiently. Sending humans to Mars could be a huge step in discovering whether it once contained life.

NASA revealed a potential habitat for four astronauts to live in Mars-like conditions in preparation for a Mars expedition in the future. "What can take a rover days and weeks to analyze, a person can study in just hours," Green added. NASA also emphasized the goal of its Artemis mission to the moon is to "allow our robots and astronauts to explore more and conduct more science than ever before."

While some view extraplanetary habitation as a way for the human race to survive, others see space travel and colonization as merely a distraction from addressing the problems on Earth. "We should deal with our own environmental issues here first," wroteBruce Dorminey inForbes."Then worry about terraforming Mars." The lessons learned "from cleaning up our own planet and preserving its flora and fauna will only help us when terraforming the world next door."

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Climate change is currently one of the largest problems human civilization is facing. It is threatening our resources and livelihood. Advancing technology like carbon capture methods and geoengineeringas well as switching to renewable energy can help combat climate change but require more investment to come to fruition. "The billions if not trillions of dollars needed to colonize Mars could, for example, be better spent investing in renewable forms of energy to address climate change," argued Zahaan Bharmal of TheGuardian. "There is no guarantee that the same fate would not befall Mars colonists."

Humans are meant to explore and space is simply the next treasure trove of discovery. "The greatest accomplishments come from taking risks, exploring the unknown, and reaching for the stars," remarked Lauren Brace forThe Central Trend. "For a planet that is constantly evolving, it seems only fitting that we expand our horizons to another destination out of this world."

Exploration and discovery are tenets of the human experience and "we pick up the mantle of ourexplorer ancestors, and we explore again," Jack Brady opined inTheMichigan Daily. Having an otherworldly goal gives society a goal to work toward and "expanding, outwardly-focused civilizations are farless likely to turn onthemselves," per Fred Kennedy inForbes. Brady adds that space exploration "gives us an opportunity to dream again to change our course as a species forever."

While the idea of being a species of more than one planet is exciting, the "idea of living on another world where we can't be outside just doesn't sound that appealing," according to Bill Nye. In reality, neither the moon nor Mars has an atmosphere or environment that humans can freely live on as they do on Earth. Mars in particular would require terraforming or "transforming Mars into a more Earth-like habitat," according to USA Today.

"Everything on Earth, from its atmosphere to its climate to its gravity, is a factor that we have evolved around," and in turn, humans have the "extreme disability to survive anywhere other than Earth,"Skyler Verrone wrote in an opinion forThe Triangle. Essentially, "it'sanenormouschallengetogethumanssafelytothesedestinations," senior scientist for the Planetary Science Institute AmandaHendrix told Upfront.

With threats like climate change and nuclear war, moving to the moon or Mars might just be our only hope. Elon Musk has long supported this idea, saying that becoming interplanetary will "safeguard the existence of humanity in the event that something catastrophic were to happen." Perhaps a "Planet B" is not a terrible idea.

Life on Earth is fragile as it is and any number of world-ending events could occur. "In the last 500 million years of the Earth's history there have been five mass extinctions of species," NASA's director of planetary scienceJim Greene, told NBC News."If we're going to live as a species, we're going to have to 'back up' in other places ... and that place is Mars."

Even if we do decide to move to the moon or Mars, the cost is a substantial barrier. Humans "require a vast support infrastructure to provide things like water, food, and breathable air," Bharmal continued. All of these require significant technological advancement in addition to the cost of actually moving people on Earth to the moon or Mars.

"The question isn't whether or not we're technologically capable of doing it, because we are. The question is whether or not we have the political will to do it,"NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine. Governments have long expressed interest in putting man back on the moon and traveling to Mars but fell short when it came to budget. However now, there are private investors like Elon Musk as well as better technology. "The question is: Will we receive the budgetto do it right now?"

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The pros and cons of space colonization - Yahoo News

The actor Ed Harris plays NASA flight director Gene Kranz in the 1995 film Apollo 13, directed by Ron Howard.Credit: Landmark Media/Alamy

Failure is not an option, NASAs legendary flight-operations director Gene Kranz is said to have remarked, as seen in the 1995 film Apollo 13. Actor Ed Harris portrayed Kranz as he guided his team to save a spacecraft that had run into trouble on the way to the Moon. In the movie, as in real life, the three astronauts on the Apollo 13 mission pulled off a spectacular fix and returned safely to Earth.

Not all space ventures have such a tidy ending. A 2019 attempt by Israeli company SpaceIL to land on the Moon crashed. On 20 April this year, a spectacular intentional detonation ended the first major test flight of Starship, the worlds largest rocket, which SpaceX in Hawthorne, California, is building to carry humans back to the Moon and to Mars. The craft had spun out of control four minutes after lifting off its launch pad in Texas. Five days later, a robotic mission from the Japanese company ispace, based in Tokyo, tried and failed to land safely on the Moon.

Moon mission failure: why is it so hard to pull off a lunar landing?

Its crash-landing was devastating not only for the small team of engineers that had built and flown the spacecraft, but also for others whose hopes were riding along with it. When the lander crashed, it pulverized two rovers designed to travel around and explore the Moons surface one built by the space agency of the United Arab Emirates and the other by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. A camera system built by Canadensys Aerospace of Toronto, Canada, which was designed to photograph the rovers deploying, also went up in smoke.

The scientists and engineers involved should not be discouraged by these failures. Space is hard. This is a truism trotted out every time theres an attempt to launch from this planet or land on another. But it is accurate. Those who wish to explore the cosmos should expect to fail perhaps many times before they can succeed.

Engineering requires iteration, time and again: first to design machines that might work and then to test them against as many possible scenarios in which things could, and of course do, go wrong.

As with all failures, the Starship explosion will teach scientists and engineers valuable lessons before the craft attempts to fly again. Along with studying why the rockets 33 engines did not all ignite and burn as they were supposed to, SpaceX also needs to reckon with the extensive environmental damage caused when Starships launch pelted nearby communities with more sand and debris than expected. NASA is watching this process closely, because it is depending on Starship for its plans to send humans back to the Moon in the coming years.

Private ispace Moon landing fails: researchers are investigating

Ispace, too, will study and learn from its missions problems, ahead of a planned second launch next year. It looks as if the spacecraft ran out of propellant just before reaching the surface, causing it to crash-land.

Humans live in a culture in which it seems as if everything must go right the first time we try it, but that is not how successful products are developed, nor how science unfolds especially in space. Back in the 1960s, both the US space programme and the Soviet Unions equivalent went through a process of trial and error, as they tried time after time to land the first Moon missions, and failed repeatedly. Both learnt from each attempt and incorporated those lessons the next time around.

Kranz did not actually say Failure is not an option although that didnt stop him using the phrase as the title of his 2000 autobiography. In research and development, failure is indeed an option. In fact, it can be a necessary learning objective on the path to success.

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In space, failure is an option often the only one - Nature.com

Virgin Galactic announces return to space, crew

Las Cruces native and New Mexico State University graduate Jamila Gilbert is one of four Virgin Galactic employees who will serve as a mission specialists to evaluate the astronaut experience when the company returns to space later this month. The aerospace and space travel company Virgin Galactic yesterday announced the crew and its plans to return to space after close to two years in order to conduct the final assessment of the spaceflight system and astronaut experience before commercial service begins in late June. Returning to space is what we have all worked towards, President of Spaceline Missions and Safety Mike Moses said in a statement. Our mission specialists were selected for their diverse expertise, and they couldnt be better suited to validate the astronaut training program and overall experience. After this flight we will begin flying our customers to space. Gilbert, according to a news release, is a non-engineer who has been with the company since 2019 where she has been an integral part of our team, leading internal communicationsas a Latina woman of Purpechan-Mexican roots, a visual artist and a communications professional who speaks four languages, Jamila will bring a different perspective from the pilots and engineers who have flown before her. Last month, Virgin Galactic completed its glide flight from Spaceport America, another key step, the company said, before starting commercial flights.

Santa Fe District 1 Councilor Renee Villarreal announced yesterday she wont run for re-election come Nov. 7. When I first started on this path as an elected official, I indicated that I would commit to two terms (eight years), and then step down to create space for the next leader as part of my values of building community leadership and ensuring diverse voices have access to positions of power, Villarreal says in a statement. Villarreal also praised Alma Castro, a local organizer and owner of Caf Castro, who announced her intentions to run for the seat last week. I am thrilled to see another woman of color run for public office and am proud of Alma Castro for stepping up! Villarreal says. I have known Alma through the decades and have appreciated her leadership as a community organizer and small business owner. As a local Santafesina, she is running for the right reasons. Several other candidates also reportedly indicated their interest in the District 1 seat yesterdaythe start of the public financing campaign period. Villarreals announcement leaves two vacant seats in the upcoming municipal election; District 3 Councilor Chris Rivera also announced last week he wont seek re-election, whereas Districts 2 and 4 Councilors Michael Garcia and Jamie Cassutt will each seek another term.

I am not in LA, so I cannot walk a picket line as I did in 1988, but I want to go on the record with my full and complete and unequivocal support of my Guild. So writes Santa Fe-based Game of Thrones author/creator George RR Martin in a recent blog post supporting Writers Guild of America union members, who went on strike May 2. Martin notes that he has experienced several such strikes since he began writing for television and film in 1986. The 1988 strike, the first I was a part of, lasted 22 weeks, the longest in Hollywood history. The 2007-2008 strike, the most recent, went for 100 days. This one may go longer. The issues are more important, imnsho, and I have never seen the Guild so united as it is now. In a subsequent post yesterday, Martin expounds upon what he considers the most important issue at stake in the strike: the so-called mini rooms that the Guild is hoping to abolish, and the terrible impact they are having on writers at the start of their careers. Martin learned how to write for TV, he says, in the writers room on the set of The Twilight Zone; I was the most junior of junior writers, maybe a hot(ish) young writer in the world of SF, but in TV I was so green that I would have been invisible against a green screen, Martin writes. And that, in my opinion, is the most important of the things that the Guild is fighting for. The right to have that kind of career path. To enable new writers, young writers, and yes, prose writers, to climb the same ladder. The way shows work now, he says, the showrunner assembles a mini-room, made up of a couple of senior writers and a couple newcomers and the chance to learn on set has been lost. Variety magazine reported yesterday several major studies are suspending first-look and other deals amid the ongoing strike.

State Public Education Secretary Arsenio Romero yesterday announced five new members of his leadership team, who will oversee areas ranging from policy to curriculum to equity. These education leaders embody our vision to boost student outcomes across the board, Romero said in a statement. Thought, care and intention were put into the selection process to produce a varied team of individuals poised to affect change. This is my personal dream team. Seana Flanagan, who has been in the position of managing director in an interim capacity, has been named to that position; she has been with PED since 2014, and previously served as division director of education quality. Gregory Frostad, former interim Policy and Legislative Affairs director and Safe and Healthy Schools director is now assistant secretary of Policy and Research. Amanda DeBell, who is currently Albuquerque Public Schools Zone 3 schools associate superintendent will be the departments deputy secretary of Teaching, Learning and Innovation. KatieAnn Juanico, who formerly worked for San Felipe Pueblo as its education director, is now assistant secretary of Indian Education for the state. The only out-of-state hire, Candice Castillo, is currently executive officer of Student Support Services at Houston Independent School District and will be coming to New Mexico to serve as deputy secretary of Identity, Equity and Transformation. According to a news release, Castillo will oversee such things as federal programs, safe and healthy schools, language and culture, and the Black and Hispanic education acts, as well as student, school and family support.

Reported May 8: New cases: 293 (includes the weekend); 681,034 total cases. Deaths: 0 Statewide fatalities: 9,236; Santa Fe County has had 410 total deaths; Statewide hospitalizations: 57; patients on ventilators: four. The state health department will stop reporting daily COVID-19 cases on May 11.

The Centers for Disease and Prevention most recent May 4 community levels map shows two New Mexico counties have turned yellow, depicting medium levels: Colfax and McKinley. The rest of the counties remain green, aka have low levels.

Resources: Receive four free at-home COVID-19 tests per household via COVIDTests.gov; Check availability for additional free COVID-19 tests through Project ACT; CDC interactive booster eligibility tool; NM DOH vaccine & booster registration; CDC isolation and exposure interactive tool; COVID-19 treatment info; NMDOH immunocompromised tool kit. People seeking treatment who do not have a medical provider can call NMDOHs COVID-19 hotline at 1-855-600-3453.

You can read all of SFRs COVID-19 coverage here.

On the most recent episode of KSFRs CinemaScope podcast, host Nazneen Akhtar Rahim talks with stand-up comedian Mona Shaikh, the first Pakistani female comedian to be selected for the Laughs Factory Funniest Person in the World Competition. Host of her own show Minority Reportz, Shaikh talks about how she broke into the industry. Stand-up comedy is a hard life, Shaikh says. So, if you grew up in a normal stable loving home, theres no need to do stand-up. Being born and partially raised in Pakistan, she never planned to enter the industry, she says, noting: I truly believe that you dont choose comedy; comedy chooses you.

As part of its Culture Shifters series, Huffington Post spotlights 23-year-old filmmaker Kymon Greyhorse (Navajo and Tongan), whose short film I Am Home was chosen for the 2023 Sundance Film Festival just six months after Greyhorsewho grew up in both New Mexico and Utahgraduated from the University of New Mexico. I Am Home, the story notes, began as a poem Greyhorse wrote during the pandemic while isolating in Albuquerque. All of that built-up loneliness and feeling lost and confused of what the future looked like for meit was like I was almost desperate for anything that would ground me while I was slowly drifting off, Greyhorse tells Huffington Post. I wanted to feel family. I wanted my anxiety to fade away and for someone to tell me that Im good and that this feeling isnt forever. So I took all of those emotions and put it to words. Last year, Greyhorse released his first narrative short film Can I Love You? inspired by his mother and the addiction and violence she encountered growing up on the Navajo reservation. About the film, Greyhorse says in his directors statement: My mom was the backbone of the family, the responsible one that grew up too fast. She tried her best to hide and protect my aunt and uncles from the ugliness but would soon watch them indulge in the same poisons of substance abuse, domestic violence, and neglect. She had dreams she thought mightve been too big. Ones that seemed too good to be true. Ultimately, he says, the film is a love letter to my mom.

While we normally eschew spreading conspiracy theories, were making an exception for one that involves our favorite topic: chile peppers. In this case: jalapeos. Dallas-based D Magazine dining critic Brian Reinhart began his investigation into the de-spicification of jalapeos in his own kitchen, writing: Its not just you: jalapeo peppers are less spicy and less predictable than ever before. As heat-seekers chase ever-fiercer varieties of pepperCarolina reapers, scorpions, ghoststhe classic jalapeo is going in the opposite direction by design. He then speaks with Dallas-area chefs, many of whom agree jalapeos have lost their fieriness. But you cant just yak with Texans if you want to investigate chile peppers; you have to consult the expertsin this case: Stephanie Walker, extension vegetable specialist at New Mexico State University, advisory board member of that universitys Chile Pepper Institute, and chair of the 2023 New Mexico Chile Conference. Walker says shes heard the complaints about jalapeos diminishing kick and, it turns out, she has a theory, which Reinhart characterizes as the vast jalapeo conspiracy. We wont completely spoil the story of how jalapeos lost their punch (its a good read) but suffice it to say: big processing, cross-breeding and Texas shoulder some of the blame.

The National Weather Service forecasts another relatively calm day for Santa Fe, with sunny skies, a high temperature near 72 degrees and north wind 5 to 15 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. However, elevated fire conditions are in effect throughout much of the state and, yesterday, interagency fire officials reported the Las Cocas fire, burning just south of Guadalupita in Mora County. As of last night, the fire was at estimated at 75 to 100 acres and 10% containment, with volunteer firefighters digging hand lines; and Santa Fe hot shots en route. The cause of the fire is under investigation. In the wake of last years devastating Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon wildfire, caused by prescribed burns, fire officials this week say they postponed a scheduled prescribed burn scheduled to have begun Sunday in the Carson National Forest in response to this weeks dangerous fire weather.

Thanks for reading! The Word almost wishes she was in New Jersey so she could visit the Toni Morrison: Sites of Memory exhibition at Princeton University Library, about which Jasmine Liu writes compellingly in the LA Times Review of Books.

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Virgin Galactic Announces Return to Space, Crew | - Santa Fe Reporter

Experience the extraordinary world of space travel in Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya

Humans love to travel, to explore, and to experience new things. And because of that love and curiosity, it even pushed for the development of space exploration where astronauts go out of the earth to travel the universe and explore the unknown.

But not all of us can do that. The good thing is, some hotels and accommodations are bringing the space travel experience closer to its customers through space themed hotels and parks. One of those establishments is the Grande Centre Point Space. Located at Pattaya, in Thailand, this hotel is named as Thailand's first-ever space themed hotel.

A product of innovative cutting edge design and technology, this hotel has 490 space rooms and suites inspired from actual space capsules, 12,000 square meter space water park, game zones, and a lot more.

Prior check-in, guests can already have a taste of spaces top-notch technology. By moving their hands to the 88 square meter interactive wall, they can embark on fun and exciting adventures by completing computer generated missions.

In time of entering their capsules, they will be greeted by a space equipped with Wi-Fi, bathtub, shower, balcony with overlooking view of Pattaya Beach, that they enjoy with complimentary snacks and softdrinks in every room. Meanwhile, those who will book their own space suites will have all of the mentioned features plus built-in bluetooth speaker, capsule coffee with its machine, and jacuzzi. At night time, guests can opt to switch on the space light features in the room. These lights mimic the wonders of celestial space at night. Its like exploring the universe while laying in the comfort of their own bed.

After a relaxing sleep, guests can enjoy the hotels vast water park. This Space Water Park is divided into four theme zonesflying rocks, mountain, space pirate beach, and planet zone. Adrenaline junkies will have a great time in flying zones for it has two water chutes including an eight-meter slide tower, that will send them flying into an endless loop. This zone also has its outdoor playground with a sandpit and trampoline.

For those who love a chill time with nature, the mountain zone features a lazy river, a cave pool, and jungle jacuzzi. Meanwhile, party goers will surely flock to the space pirate beach zone. Made with artificial white sand beach with waves, this zone also has its own space beach bar that does not simply offer drinks but some of Thailands famous street food. Lastly, families, especially the kids will enjoy the planet zone, as it has its own mini golf course, pool, and amphitheater.

On top of all of these, Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya is also boasting its various in-house restaurants including the Orbit that has 420 sitting capacity and offers a wide selection of buffet and other menu options. Theres also the Solo Luna, the hotels rooftop restaurant, where guests can enjoy the magnificent view of Pattaya while enjoying Thai food.

And this is how ordinary humans can travel to space without leaving the Earth.

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A tour inside the Thailand's first space themed hotel - Manila Bulletin

When we think of space exploration, one name always stands out: Buzz Aldrin. Aldrin was thesecond human to touch the moon.These days, you can call him Brigadier General Aldrin, as the United States Space Force has named him an honorary Guardian. It's no surprise, really. Aldrin has been a key figure in space history, bringing invaluable experience and knowledge to the newest branch of our military.

From moonwalker to Space Force

Buzz Aldrin's journey began in 1930 when he was born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey. Growing up loving aviation, Aldrinfollowed his passion and became a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. In 1963, he was one of several aviators selected as an astronaut. In turn, this paved the way for his historic Apollo 11 mission in 1969. That year, Aldrin and fellow astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first humans to walk on the moon.

Aldrin's involvement in the USSF is more than just an honorary title. As a seasoned astronaut and veteran, he contributes a wealth of expertise to developing and implementing space-based defense strategies. The USSF,established in December 2019, is the sixth branch of the United States military. Guardians defend America's interests in space, ensuring that our military can access and control critical space-based assets. Now, Aldrin will have a hand in that, too.

Aldrin's role in the Space Force

As an Honorary Brigadier General, Buzz has the added perk of skipping daily PT, which might make a few folks jealous. At the DFAC (and probably in his office), he'll be dishing out advice and mentorship to the newest iteration of America's warfighters. Given his incredible achievements, BG Aldrin's mere presence is likley to inspire not just Guardians, but all service members, and Americans, too. In addition, he'll be advocating for careers in the growing field of space defense, motivating a new generation to join the Space Force.

Lessons from a lunar legend

Buzz Aldrin's life story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and passion. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of human exploration can be a valuable lesson for those in the Space Force and beyond.

Here are a few key takeaways from Aldrin's incredible journey:

Embrace Challenge: Aldrin's trip to the moon was fraught with risks and obstacles. However, he embraced the challenge and achieved what many thought was impossible.

Pursue Excellence: Throughout his career, Aldrin has been dedicated to mastering his craft. His pursuit of excellence helped him become a key figure in one of the most significant achievements in human history.

Be Adaptable: Aldrin has remainedrelevant and influential in space exploration long after his historic moonwalk. By adapting to new roles and staying engaged in the conversation, he has continued to shape the future of space travel and defense.

Buzz Aldrin's involvement with the United States Space Force underscores the importance of investing in our nation's space capabilities. As America and the world look to the stars, we need leaders like Aldrin to inspire and guide us to protect our assets. In turn, we'll ensure our nation's security and help maintain America's role as a global innovation leader.

In the words of Buzz Aldrin, "We explore or we expire." His dedication and contributions to the USSF remind us that the final frontier is not just a place for dreamers and scientists but also for our military's brave men and women.

Buzz Aldrin's contributions to this new frontier in military defense are significant, as they help to ensure that our military is well-equipped and prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. Moreover, as a trailblazer in space exploration, Aldrin's experience and wisdom provide valuable insights for future Space Force members. In turn, shapes a generation of leaders who will navigate the complexities of space defense, paving the way for a safer and more secure future.

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Buzz Aldrin named Brigadier General by Space Force - We Are The Mighty

Space is not just the preserve of scientists and astronauts. Its also big business and has an impact on our economy and may even one day become a tourist destination.

Our hugely-experienced Kiplinger Letter team will update you on all the important developments (Get a free issue of The Kiplinger Letter or subscribe). Heres the latest forecast

The rising challenges in space are highlighted by Virgin Orbits recent bankruptcy. The launch company struggled to rise amid a crowded field of space firms and underscores the froth in the market that we noted in January.

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Virgin Orbit (VORBQ) was vying to offer flexibility and lower costs to take small satellites into orbit. The company, founded in 2017, has launched 33 satellites but burned through $1 billion in cash and couldnt find more funding to keep operating, resulting in nearly 700 layoffs.

For now, the number of rocket launch providers well exceeds demand, especially with the economy slowing in the near term. Consider that even SpaceX, the leading launch provider, needs to secure funding to continue operations.

Meanwhile, note an upcoming milestone for the commercial space industry: SpaceXs first launch of its Starship, a first-of-its-kind reusable rocket thats nearly 400 feet tall, with a payload capacity of up to 150 tons. The initial focus is bringing satellites into orbit, but the rocket is capable of taking a crew to the moon or possibly Mars.

SpaceX says it will be able to carry 100 people on long flights. The huge, reusable rocket will usher in a new era of commercial space travel.

This forecast first appeared in the The Kiplinger Letter. Since 1925, the Letter has helped millions of business executives and investors profit by providing reliable forecasts on business and the economy, as well as what to expect from Washington. Get a free issue of The Kiplinger Letter or subscribe.

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Rob Mather of IFS identifies the five key developments that will bring profits back for commercial aviation in 2023. (Photo: IFS)

An overriding sense of optimism is rippling through the aviation industry again after a turbulent couple of years. Profits look set to return to airlines for the first time since 2019 as predicted by the International Air Transport Association. Rob Mather, Vice President, Aerospace and Defense Industries, IFS identifies the five key developments that will bring profits back to the industry. His predictions span new modes of travel on earth and space to new manufacturing developments, not to forget the need to negotiate the bumps in the road caused by maintenance and sustainment challenges.

A net profit of $4.7 billion and a 0.6% net profit margin is on the table for the aviation industry in 2023 according to the International Air transport Association (IATA) figuresthe first profitable year since 2019. Fueling these rises in profit is a 20% increase in deliveries of large aircraft by compared to 2022 figures and production rates will match this increase by the end of FY 2023, according to Fitch Ratings figures. It also predicts the increase in air traffic to boost aftermarket sales and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.

Exploiting these opportunities in the aviation value chain are crucial with slim profit margins, so any chance for marginal gain is essential to explore. Some of these profits can be realized within five growth areas in the aviation industry on both a macro and micro scale.

Unstable supply chains are one of the biggest causes for concern within the aerospace and aviation industry. Deloitte stated in its most recent Aerospace & Defense Industry Outlook, that it believes there will be a shift to regional sourcing from global sourcing next year, including the transfer of raw materials, parts, and complete A&D goods globally. A key priority for aviation businesses to diversify their supply chains to pivot to local sourcing and near-shoring to prevent concentration risks across the supply chain. One method that is seems tailor made to enable this push towards localization is additive manufacturing (AM)which is already showing its potential and is designed to help reduce, control, and lessen supply chain challenges. AM has already been found to reduce cost and lead time of spare parts/inventory management by 60-90% compared to other manufacturing methods.

3D printing is already being implemented by many airline operators and MRO providers in a range of ways. After Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) couldnt find off-the-shelf engine covers, exhaust plugs and other parts due to supply chain issues for its stored aircraft, the airline turned to partnering with a local aviation engineering business with 3D printing capabilities to print the relevant parts. Recently, a component for the IAE-V2500 engines anti-icing system received official aviation certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) after being manufactured by Lufthansa Techniks Additive Manufacturing (AM) Center. Despite these advancements there are still bumps in the road to wide adoption and regulatory success, but the future is bright for local suppliers having a role in play in improving the resilience of the aviation industry supply chain and additive manufacturing will be crucial in this journey.

In 2023, were looking at a new kind of space race. NASA and SpaceX both have lunar visits in their sights. The widely covered NASA Artemis Moon Mission will eventually include a crewed lunar landing. Meanwhile SpaceX is targeting making lunar orbits more accessible with its Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket. Its dearMoon mission is a weeklong journey containing a crew of artists, content creators, and athletes from all around the world that will travel within 200 km of the lunar surface. Other space tourism market entrants include Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, all contributing to the industry exhibiting a huge Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 36.4% from 2022-2028.

Beyond space tourism, there are other areas of focus in the increasingly commercialized space sector. As the number of satellites providing critical on-earth infrastructure support increasesfor communications connectivity, navigation, weather observation etc. Space Infrastructure Servicing (SIS) or in-orbit servicing is becoming a growing addressable market. This includes the life extension, phasing, repair, and maintenance of critical assets as they orbit the earth. The market is huge. Some research organizations forecast as much $14.3 Billion In-orbit Servicing & Manufacturing revenue through 2030. In 2023 expect to see enabling technology evolve alongside the expanded commercialization of space.

The commercial aviation advanced air mobility (AAM) industry is still in start-up mode. There are some stand-out OEMs manufacturing the next-generation of air transportation, but there is still more progress to be made in terms of aviation authority certification and creating the supporting infrastructure to manage these new methods of travel. Projections from the Advanced Air Mobility Index show that 24% of the top AAM start-ups are expected to move from prototype and testing to Entry into Service (EIS) over 2023 and 2024.

On the regulatory side, there are also encouraging breakthroughs. At the beginning of November 2022, the FAA proposed its criteria for the Joby Aviation Model JAS4-1 eVTOL air taxi aircraft to be certifiedproviding an example of how eVTOL certification would work in practice. In December, the FAA published its proposed airworthiness criteria for Archers Midnight eVTOL. Over the next few years, as the industry matures, many of these manufacturers will become the operators and maintainers of these new air assets.

To get there though, the advanced air vehicle manufacturers will need to shift from prototyping mode to production mode. As start-ups this is new territory for most of the leading AAM companies, and infrastructure that can provide a digital backbone capable of supporting AAM system design, manufacturing, supply chain, and aftermarket services, will be essential to develop the successful commercialization and sustainment of AAM now and into the future.

On the flip side, traditional airframe sustainment and support is also coming under the microscope. A large proportion of top airlines are managing their maintenance processes through highly configured ERP implementations, older best of breed systems, or legacy software. While some of these implementations are coming to the end of their system lifecycles, getting to the point where existing software used to manage aviation maintenance needs to be replaced, others are being forced to upgrade by their software vendor. These upgrades involve a major technology shift, and particularly with the heavily customized ERP implementations, will even end up requiring the effort of a brand-new implementation. These upgrades are required just to keep maintenance software operational, let alone support new business models, growth plans or new aircraft introductions.

Investment in modern aviation maintenance software is vital for airlines to grow and thrive in the current marketplace. Evergreen maintenance solutions will enable airlines to deploy continuous improvements over time instead of massive upgrade projects at the end of system lifecycles. An evergreen solution will guarantee ongoing system performance characteristics, and scale MRO to meet passenger and business demand now and into the future. This will also enable them to capitalize on new embedded technologies to improve automation and optimization, while maintaining security standards.

This is underlined by a recent ARC Advisory Group report: There is a growing trend among carriers with large fleets to seek enterprise level core MRO solutions that are more comprehensive in scope (fleet/line, engine, component, heavy maintenance), and are at enterprise scale. Based on the research of this study, legacy ERP/MES systems are being replaced or seek replacement by core MRO solution sets at enterprise scale. The shift in the market share of MRO software solution providers reflects this growing trend among the top carriers.

Sustainability is progressing in the aviation industry as more businesses make sustainability promises, progress is being made for traditional and new forms of aircraft propulsion. More sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is being used to power traditional aircraft flights. SAF production is expected to close out 2022 at 300 million liters according to IATA Figures a tripling over 2021 production. SAF is predicted to account for 65% of the mitigation needed to meet industry net zero CO2 emissions targets, meaning production will must rise to 450 billion liters annually by 2050. The positive sign is that over 50 airlines and over 450,000 of total commercial flights are using SAF as shown by IATA.

For new modes of air transport, AAM is seen by Deloitte as crucial for the industry to meet its sustainability targets, especially due to the progress in certification and Entry into Service shown above. This is already starting happen, and the AAM industry is receiving more investment and orders from airline operators including Air Canada, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines according to Cirium.

AAMs have a huge role to play in the reduction of emissions for regional or urban movementa recent Deloitte study predicts AAMs to reduce travel time by 75% with zero operating emissions for a 25-mile intracity trip. In support of this is McKinsey estimates flights below 600 miles in length, make up for 17% of total airline CO2 emissions. Put these together and its clear AAM can help alleviate emissions problems due to their electrification and hybrid propulsion features incorporated into standard airframes for short-haul and regional distances.

2023 is the year for the aviation sector to reach new heights

Following a tough period for the aviation industry, the difference between profit and loss for many businesses will be these macro and micro-level developments. The aviation organizations that explore these new manufacturing processes, new methods of propulsion and new methods of air transport will quickly grab market share as the aviation sector progresses through 2023 and beyond.

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OPINION: A Return to Profitability for Commercial Aviation - Avionics ... - Aviation Today

Over the years, the vastness of space and encountering extraterrestrial life have long captivated our imaginations. Many movies have sought to portray these captivating themes with a touch of realism. These movies introduce us to the world of space and aliens, and here are 12 that do an excellent job of that.

Contact is a movie centered on a scientist, played by Jodie Foster. While investigating extraterrestrial life, he receives a mysterious signal from outer space. The film explores the complexities of scientific exploration in search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

Contact captivates audiences with an engaging storyline and enthralling performances. It also delves into the profound implications of encountering alien civilizations.

This movie is an intellectually stimulating film that showcases the difficulties of communicating with aliens. Starring Amy Adams, the movie follows a linguistics expert recruited to decipher an alien language.

As she delves deeper into the alien world, she unravels its impact on human perception of reality. Arrival offers a fresh take on the challenges and possibilities of interstellar communication.

Europa Report takes viewers on a thrilling journey to one of Jupiter's moons, Europa. This movie is about a crew of astronauts on a dangerous mission to uncover Jupiter's moon.

This movie'srealistic depiction of space travel and the inherent risks involved offers a gripping insight into humanity's extraterrestrial discovery.

This thriller combines horror and science fiction elements to engage this genre's lovers. The plot of this movie centers on astronauts who encounter deadly alien species in space.

This film explores the crew's moral dilemmas when encountering an extraterrestrial threat. Alien Covenant offers an intense atmosphere, an excellent storyline, and captivating visuals.

District 9 presents a unique take on man's first contact with extraterrestrial beings. Set in a near-future Johannesburg, the film portrays the segregation and mistreatment of stranded aliens.

It delves into the complexities of prejudice, identity, and humanity's response to the unknown. It also blends social commentary with thrilling action and a strong plot. This movie's compelling narrative and impressive visual effects make it a standout film in the genre.

This classic sci-fi film explores the human fascination with alien encounters. The movie follows ordinary individuals drawn to a series of unexplained phenomena.

As they attempt to decipher these encounters, more curious factors arise. It also explores the possibility of communication with intelligent beings from beyond our world.

This movie is about a thrilling journey to discover aliens in the ocean's depths. The plot centers on a group of scientists and astronauts sent to investigate a mysterious spacecraft found in the ocean.

They encounter a sphere that grants them unimaginable powers while exploring a spacecraft. This suspenseful film explores the psychological impact of engaging alien technology.

Moonfall showcases a catastrophic event where the moon is knocked out of its orbit and travels toward Earth. A group of astronauts is sent to avoid the moon colliding with the Earth.

This film explores human resilience and the lengths we go to save our planet from an extraterrestrial threat.

Apollo 18 presents an account of a secret lunar mission that uncovers terrifying alien encounters.

It follows a crew of astronauts encountering mysterious creatures on the moon, which leads to a suspenseful and chilling exploration of the dangers lurking beyond our planet.

Annihilation takes us on a thrilling journey into an alien-infested zone called The Shimmer. A team of scientists ventures into this zone to unravel its secrets. This movie explores the relationship between humans and aliens.

The Martian is a space travel movie about an astronaut stranded on Mars after his crew believes him dead. Facing overwhelming odds, he must rely on his resourcefulness and ingenuity to survive while awaiting rescue.

The Martian showcases the challenges and triumphs of human perseverance in isolation and uncertainty.

Morons from Outer Space offers a fun approach to stories regarding alien contact. In this comedy, four hapless aliens from space accidentally crash-land on Earth.

They become mistaken for humans because they resemble earth beings. Becoming unwitting celebrities, they struggle to adapt to human society. This film provides a funny perspective on the cultural difference between aliens and humans.

This thread inspired this post.

This article was produced and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.

Boloere Seibidor, fondly called B.S. is a Nigerian-based writer and poet. Her favorite topics to cover include music, especially Hip-Hop, film, lifestyle, and fashion. She's been published by Feral Journal, Fantasy Magazine, The Temz Review, and most notably, Wealth of Geeks. She enjoys romantic dinners, movie nights, and touring new sites. When she's not writing, she's delving back in time to the underground world of Hip-Hop, watching TikTok, or visiting the cinema.

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12 Realistic Films About Space Travel and Making Contact With Aliens - Wealth Of Geeks