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House Democrats to Propose Legislation Aimed at Saving NOAA

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House Democrats are focusing on staffing issues at the National Weather Service field office, aiming to pass legislation swiftly to thwart further funding and staffing cuts from the Trump administration affecting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, especially following severe storms nationwide.

As reported by NBC News, the proposed amendment to the Republican Budget Adjustment Bill safeguards NOAA from disbandment and prevents its responsibilities from being shifted to other federal entities, as well as protecting its website and datasets.

Democratic representatives including Eric Sorensen from Illinois, Joe Negas from Colorado, and Wesley Bell from Missouri are poised to introduce these amendments early on Wednesday.

This legislation underscores Congressional worries about staffing levels at the National Weather Service, particularly after the Trump administration’s layoffs of prosecutors and the offering of early retirement packages to long-serving employees. Recently, a short-staffed weather room managed severe thunderstorms and tornado outbreaks during a weekend that resulted in at least 28 fatalities in the Midwest and South.

“With hurricane season on the horizon and extreme weather becoming more frequent, we cannot afford to jeopardize NOAA,” said Moskowitz, a former director of Florida Emergency Management, in an emailed statement.

Sorensen, the sole meteorologist in Congress, emphasized:

“As a meteorologist who has reported on severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, I understand the critical need for the National Weather Service to be fully staffed at all times.”

Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Ill, of Rockford, Illinois, in 2023.
Chris Nieves/USA Today Network

However, the amendment faces significant opposition from Republicans who control the House. The Trump administration’s initial budget proposal proposed cutting over $1.5 billion from NOAA.

The National Weather Service is working to address staffing shortages this spring. Recently, NOAA initiated a “period of reallocation” to recruit 76 meteorologists for critical roles that were left vacant due to budget cuts.

At least eight of the nation’s 122 weather forecast offices, including in Sacramento, California; Goodland, Kansas; and Jackson, Kentucky, anticipate reducing or discontinuing overnight operations within the next six weeks, according to Tom Fahy, director of the National Weather Service employee organization. He noted that over 52 of the weather forecast offices in the U.S. are experiencing staffing shortages exceeding 20%.

The National Weather Service has not provided additional details regarding staffing levels at its various offices.

“The National Weather Service remains committed to its mission of delivering life-saving forecasts, warnings, and decision support services to the public,” stated NOAA’s communications director, Kim Dester, in an email. “In the near future, NWS will update its service level standards for weather forecast offices to adapt to changes in human resources while prioritizing mission-essential operations.”

Last weekend, the Jackson office of Kentucky was put to the test during dangerous storms statewide. Fahy mentioned in an interview that staff worked overtime to manage the situation with “every available hand,” although the challenges were anticipated ahead of time.

“We had sufficient lead times in monitoring supercells,” Fahy explained, adding that unforeseen serious events could arise at any moment. “A severe thunderstorm has the potential to generate tornadoes and multiple tornadic activity, which can be difficult to predict.”

Meteorologists outside of the agency noted that forecasters in Jackson and other offices performed admirably during the tumultuous weekend but expressed concerns that operational pressures could overwhelm the already stretched staff.

“The tornado warnings were issued very effectively,” remarked Chris Vaguski, meteorologist and research program manager at Wisconet, a network of weather stations in Wisconsin, though he emphasized the uncertain long-term impact of staff fatigue.

“How do forecasters recover physically, mentally, and emotionally? Will this affect the quality of their warnings?” he inquired.

Vaguski noted that the warning time for tornadoes issued by the Jackson office exceeded 15 minutes, which is an improvement over the average performance.

Victor Gensini, a meteorology professor at Northern Illinois University, stated that while assessing the impact of staffing shortages is challenging, meteorological services may face declines in performance as fewer meteorologists are available for critical tasks.

“It’s challenging to evaluate performance based on a single significant event,” Gensini stated. “But we should prepare for a gradual decline in performance, though quantifying that impact may be difficult.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Daylight Saving Time in the US in 2025: A Guide to Clock Changes

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As the sun returns and the winter blues float away, it’s almost time to adjust the American clock. Daylight Saving Time (DST), a practice of changing your clock twice a year, has a long history full of controversy, diplomacy, and some unique quirks depending on where you live.

Despite its routine nature, DST means longer evenings to enjoy the sun in the end. So, as the date approaches, we’ve gathered all the information you need to know, including when to change the clocks, why it happens, and why some want to do away with DST altogether.

When will the clocks change in March 2025?

For Americans, the time changes on Sunday, March 9th. It will happen at 2 am local time, moving forward by one hour.

This marks the start of DST, but the transition may vary depending on your location. Here’s how it looks in major cities:

  • Los Angeles: Along with other West Coast cities like Seattle and San Francisco, will shift from standard Pacific time to daylight Pacific time. The sunrise will move from 6:15 am to 7:15 am, and the sunset from 5:54 pm to 6:54 pm.
  • Chicago: Will transition from Central Standard Time to Central Daylight Time. The sunrise will change from 6:17 am to 7:17 am, and the sunset from 5:47 pm to 6:47 pm.
  • New York and Washington DC: Will switch from Eastern Standard Time to Eastern Daylight Time. This will shift the sunrise from 6:22 am to 7:22 am, and the sunset from 5:53 pm to 6:53 pm.

How does daylight saving time work?

The concept of Daylight Saving Time is fairly simple. Every year, we adjust our clocks by adding or subtracting an hour. This occurs twice a year and alternates between the two.

These time changes are known as Daylight Saving Time and Standard Time. DST begins in March, moving us forward an hour, ends in November, and then moves back an hour.

On the surface, this may seem strange, but it serves a purpose. DST aims to make better use of sunlight and save energy by providing more daylight in the evening, allowing for more time to enjoy the sun and reducing electricity demands at home.

What is the history of daylight saving time?

The history of Daylight Saving Time dates back quite a long time. While often attributed to Benjamin Franklin in 1784, the actual origins can be traced back before 1907.

William Willett, an advocate for more daylight hours, proposed changing how we view time. This proposal, involving moving the clock forward by 80 minutes in four increments of 20 minutes each Sunday at 2 am, eventually led to the establishment of Daylight Saving Time.

Since then, the system has been refined and simplified. Despite initial resistance, DST eventually became a standard practice in 1966.

Why do some people want to abolish daylight saving time?

Aside from the inconvenience of changing the clock annually, there are reasons why some advocate for the abolishment of DST.

Studies suggest that clock changes can have a negative impact on health, with an increased risk of heart attacks following the spring time change. Additionally, the economic cost of DST changes is estimated to be significant, affecting productivity.

Another important reason is the impact on pets. It’s recommended to gradually adjust your pet to the time change to avoid disruptions to their routines.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The negative impact of daylight saving time on health and how to mitigate it

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It feels harsh. Being forced to sacrifice valuable sleep is tough. In the United States, Daylight Saving Time (DST) will begin on March 9, 2025. At 2am local time, the clock will spring forward an hour, skipping straight to 3am.

Not only does this make the following day feel a bit groggy, but experts are growing concerned about the potential negative impacts of the DST switch on our health.

“When the clock changes, there is a slight increase in stroke, heart attack, car accidents, and sleep loss,” says Vanderbilt’s Director of Sleep, Dr. Beth Malow to BBC Science Focus.

The effects of this time shift are felt not only by the youth but also by older individuals. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2015 found that teenagers lose approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes of weekday sleep after the time change.

Mallow continues, “It has health repercussions for nearly eight months due to the shift in light exposure from the morning and evening times.”

“Morning light is essential for waking up, regulating our biological clock, and enhancing our mood. We use light therapy in the morning to treat seasonal affective disorders and improve sleep quality. Exposure to morning light supports nighttime sleep, while evening light disrupts it.”

However, all hope is not lost. Here are some simple strategies to alleviate the impact of losing that hour:

1. Back up your bedtime for a few days before the clock change

While it may be too late this time, keep this in mind for the future. Sleep experts recommend gradually shifting your bedtime 15-20 minutes earlier each night leading up to the time change.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sudden changes in sleep schedules, such as switching to daylight saving time, can lead to temporary insomnia symptoms affecting about 30-35% of adults.

By easing into it gradually, Malow suggests, “you can adjust to the new time and get a bit more sleep in the process.”

If you’re short on time and feeling drowsy, going to bed earlier on the night of the time change can also be helpful.

2. Expose yourself to bright light in the morning

Daylight Saving Time aims to provide an extra hour of sunlight in the evening. While this is ideal for post-work socializing, it may disrupt natural sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms.

To help you wake up in the morning and consequently sleep better at night, exposing yourself to bright light is crucial. Malow recommends natural light for this purpose, especially as the sun rises earlier during the summer months.

“Morning bright light exposure helps synchronize your biological clock,” she explains. “Aligning your clock will improve your nighttime sleep.”

3. Avoid lengthy naps and late-day caffeine. Opt for exercise instead

If you enjoy taking naps (who doesn’t?), this news may be disappointing. However, if you want to maintain good sleep, avoiding long naps is essential.

“Naps and caffeine impair our ‘sleep drive’,” Malow clarifies. Her solution? Engage in physical exercise instead.

“Physical activity in the afternoon energizes us during that afternoon slump, but comes bedtime, it promotes sleepiness. It enhances our sleep drive,” she adds.

But remember, avoid exercising just before bedtime, as it can stimulate endorphins and raise body temperature, both of which can interfere with sleep.

4. Put away your phone before bedtime

You’ve likely heard this advice before, but it remains just as relevant, particularly when the clock springs forward an hour. Bright light at night, especially from screens emitting blue light, can disrupt your sleep.

Blue light, found in LED screens, inhibits the natural release of melatonin in the brain, a hormone that regulates sleep. Additionally, content like news can trigger anxiety before bed.

Perhaps it’s time to eliminate daylight saving time

While the aforementioned strategies can minimize the impact of the time change, many experts are calling for the abolishment of this antiquated practice entirely.

So, should standard time become the new norm?

Alice Gregory, a psychology professor at Goldsmith’s, believes so. She argues that permanent standard time aligns better with our circadian rhythms compared to daylight saving time.

Mallow echoes this sentiment, stating, “Most individuals are quite fatigued by the interaction.”

About our experts:

Dr. Beth Malow is a neurology and pediatrics professor, Director of the Vanderbilt Sleep Division, Chair of Barry Donations for Cognitive Childhood Development, and Vice-Chair of Clinical Research at Vanderbilt University, USA. She is board-certified in Neurology and Sleep Medicine, conducting research on sleep and its medical and genetic implications.

Alice Gregory is a psychology professor at Goldsmith’s. She conducts research on the link between sleep and mental health, behavioral genetics, sleep paralysis, and nightmare disorder. She is also a prolific science communicator, publishing articles in various outlets like Guardian, GQ UK, and Slate fr.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Saving a struggling mobile game: Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp offers solutions | Games

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aAt some point, most mobile games will die. Apple’s iOS software updates have removed thousands of App Store games over the years. Old games simply disappear unless developers make them compatible with all new devices and software. (Most games can’t or won’t devote such resources to it.) Also, in the case of live mobile games that encourage users to log in every day, the popularity of the game will inevitably decline and the developer will stop updating it, leaving the game sluggish and unplayable. Sometimes there is no warning. Games exist one day and disappear the next. A truly dark fate.

Mobile gaming has a high mortality rate. 83% of them Research shows that most games fail within the first three years. But maybe there’s another way. In 2017, Nintendo released a mobile version of its best-selling relaxing life simulation game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The service, called Pocket Camp, ran for seven years before Nintendo ended support for it last month. But instead of ending the game, the company released a complete version for £8.99 that packages years of content and allows players to transfer data to keep their memories or start anew. The game lives on.

Pocket Camp is an excellent replica of the console Animal Crossing games, closer to a Happy Home Designer spin-off with a lighter touch than the DS and Switch versions. Your super cute character will be in charge of the campsite and decorate it with furniture and cuteobjects. If your campsite is set up to their liking, the animals will come hang out and talk trash with you. You can gift them anything you find lying around, such as fruit, fish you catch, or, better yet, live insects. Guitar-playing dog KK Slider (who, interestingly, is a caricature of Kazumi Todaka, one of Nintendo’s composers) performs at a campfire concert.

The main difference between Pocket Camp and, say, Animal Crossing on Switch is that there’s no cold in Pocket Camp. Performing insignificant missions, collecting more materials, and crafting more things will always bother you. As is tradition in mobile games, you get some kind of reward every few minutes, and every action in the game is tracked in some kind of progression tree to encourage you to keep playing. Twelve currencies, tasks, locations, and seasonal events are possible at any given time. However, it is nevertheless surprisingly feature-rich. There are thousands of things to make and buy, and hundreds of animal villagers to befriend. It feels luxurious for £8.99.

Ironically, Pocket Camp would be significantly better without the insidious monetization that was used to power it. I’ve dipped in and out of this game over the years, especially when I was waiting for 2020’s New Horizons to come out, and I’ve always loved the ubiquitous countdown timer and the daily (or several) I always shied away from it because of the manufactured urgency of logging in. 1 day) Achieve your goals. Hurry up, it’s time to harvest the fruits! Look, this special event is almost over! Don’t you want limited edition items? Don’t you want to buy some leaf tokens to speed up the creation of all this? This is a standard issue in live mobile games, but even if the game itself has value, it can also be very annoying.

All of these monetization system traps still exist in Pocket Camp Complete. They are built into the game design. However, we now give away all leaf tokens, bells, and items that you previously had to wait for or pay for for free. This changes the pace of the game and allows you to play as many times as you like at once without any restrictions. Now, without warning, I can recommend the affordable Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

More developers should do this. Once you’re done with your live games, simply package everything up and sell it for a single price. This happens in the console world, where the “Game of the Year” edition delivers the old game and all its bonuses and extra content. In this way, those who were there for the first life of the game can somehow preserve it. And such games may find new players even in the afterlife.

what to play

Fashion forward…Infinity Nikki. Photo: Epic Games

dress up fairy tale adventure infinity nikki This game, released this week, is one I’ve had my eye on for a long time because there doesn’t seem to be anything else out there. There’s no combat here, but instead there’s music, fishing, balloon rides, and conversations with cats and frogs. Pink-haired Nikki is very fashion conscious and almost everything she does in her world earns her new components for various amazing outfits. It’s an interesting combination of saccharine sweetness and downright weird, and is actually similar to Animal Crossing.

Please note: This is a free-to-play game, so if you have teenagers who want to play, make sure their settings are locked, as you could actually drop hundreds of pounds on a virtual dress. Please check.

Available: PC, PS5, smartphone
Estimated play time: 10 hours or more

what to read

Mobile games in particular have been accused of violating rules regarding the use of loot boxes. Photo: Blizzard Entertainment

  • The BBC estimates that 43 of the top 45 best-selling mobile games are break the rules Regarding disclosure of randomized information loot box in their advertising. Regulators have been slow to take action on these gambling-related features.

  • devolver digital has belatedly postponed some games to next year (including Baby Steps, which I’m really looking forward to). I exhaustedly applaud Devolver for the way they presented their presentation through a mock awards ceremony. 15th Annual Devolver Delay Awards 2024.

  • to celebrate PlayStation 30th anniversarySony has released a set of past PlayStation launch animations, including the PS1’s iconic and incredibly 90s theme. Kotaku has more.

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What to click

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Astro Bot is an upcoming platform game for PlayStation 5 by Team Asobi. Photo: Sony/Team Asobi

Now it’s my turn to ask a question instead of the reader’s. you.

We’re still looking for Pushing Buttons readers to submit their favorite games of 2024. That game will be featured in the final newsletter of the year. From Baldur’s Gate 3 to Astro Bot, send us a few sentences about what they mean to you. You will see results within a few weeks.

Please reply to this email or email pushbuttons@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing Your Loved Ones’ Favorite Christmas Gifts

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Plan Ahead

When it comes to buying something you love, planning ahead is key. Take the time to carefully consider and prepare before making a purchase, especially when buying something second-hand. Monica Marriott Mills, a TikTok user who shares insights on vintage clothing styles, suggests starting by creating a detailed list for each person you need to buy gifts for.

“I create a profile for each person, noting their preferences, favorite colors, and any items they have mentioned wanting, like a photo frame for their wedding anniversary,” she explains. “By jotting down this information on your phone, you can stay focused while shopping at thrift stores or antique shops.”

Marriott Mills, like many others her age, buys 50% of her Christmas presents second-hand. According to a report from the resale app Vinted, more than half of people under 45 buy used items at least once a month, compared to 43% of all consumers.

If you’re short on time, online second-hand marketplaces like eBay, Vinted, and Vestiaire Collective are convenient options to explore. You can browse and shop from the comfort of your own home.

Shopping for second-hand items can potentially allow you to purchase gifts that may have been out of reach if bought new. For example, a beginner in sewing might appreciate a sewing machine. While John Lewis sewing machines start from £135 when new, you can find similar working models on eBay starting at just £10 through bidding or £45.99 for an instant purchase, complete with a box.

Please Wake Up Early

Shoppers at the Red Brick Market in Liverpool, England. Keep an eye out for bargains in charity shops and markets. Photo: Chris Hellier/Alamy

If you know someone is selling household items or electronics, consider checking charity shops, flea markets, antique stores, car boot sales, and online marketplaces for hidden gems.

Marriott Mills suggests researching the delivery schedules of used furniture stores as a strategy to score great deals. “The second-hand furniture store from British Heart Foundation in my area opens on Tuesdays, so I try to visit on that day,” she shares.

“Being one of the first shoppers can be advantageous, but consider going early on Saturdays or during your lunch break.” If you can’t shop in person, many of these stores have online platforms as well.

Also Look for Children’s Gifts

eBay, Vinted, and Facebook Marketplace are excellent sources for finding gently used toys that make perfect gifts for children. Some items are even new and still in their packaging.

For example, LOL dolls typically cost around £25 each when new, but you can find bundles of dolls in good condition on eBay for as low as £4. If you’re looking for larger items like playhouses or kitchens, check out Facebook Marketplace where prices range from £10 for brand new items that normally cost between £60 and £200.

However, be mindful of the seller’s location when purchasing larger items, as they may only be available for local pickup. Shipping costs could offset any savings you make.

Designer Goods Search Filter

“You’ll find a plethora of designer items on Vinted and Depop,” Marriott Mills suggests. “Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if a gift is brand new or gently used.”

You can refine your search by specifying “New with Tags” in the search bar to find brand new items. For instance, Ralph Lauren beanies typically cost between £80 and £110 when new, but you can snag one in like-new condition on Vinted for as low as £25.

Check for Safety

When purchasing a used toy, it’s important to check for loose parts or signs of damage. Photo: PhotoAlto/Alamy

For electronics and lighting products, try to test them out before purchasing to ensure they are safe and functional. Luke Osborne, Deputy Technical Director at Electrical Safety First, recommends performing checks like verifying the presence of a genuine safety certification label on the product.

“Start by confirming if the product has been recalled. Use resources like Electrical Safety First’s product checker or the OPSS product recall and alert page,” he advises.

“Also, check if the product comes with a 3-pin UK plug containing a fuse. Foreign plugs and adapters may not offer the same level of protection as a 3-pin plug,” he adds.

When buying a used toy, inspect for loose or damaged parts, wear and tear, and signs of damage. While many charity shops sell battery-operated and electric toys, they may not always be tested for safety. Watch out for obvious signs of damage, such as battery leakage, that could pose a safety hazard. If you’re satisfied with the item, check the return policy before making a purchase and test it out once you get home. Keep your receipt handy, as returns are typically allowed within 28 days.

Shopping online from platforms like Vinted or eBay requires sellers to disclose the working condition of the toy. If the item arrives and doesn’t function as described, buyers are usually protected by a warranty that offers a refund.

Parents can refer to a used toy buying guide to ensure the safety of toys, as some older toys may contain traces of harmful chemicals like chromium, selenium, and lead. Look out for recalled toys, which can often be identified through a quick online search. Safety and quality marks like the Lion Mark and CE Mark indicate compliance with safety standards.

It’s crucial to sanitize toys before gifting them. Soft toys can be washed in the washing machine, while plastic and wooden toys can be cleaned with soap and water.

Beware of Scams

Shopping online comes with risks of potential scams, but there are precautions you can take to avoid falling victim. “Before making a purchase, always check reviews,” recommends Marriott Mills. Be cautious if a seller has few reviews or if the reviews are negative. Positive reviews can provide assurance of a legitimate transaction. For designer items, consider using authentication websites like Legit Grail.

Look out for sellers who include the original receipt with the item, as this can help verify authenticity. Familiarize yourself with hallmarks and engravings to authenticate jewelry or tableware. “I gave my mom a silver bracelet stamped with 925. I knew it was genuine,” says Marriott Mills. “Don’t hesitate to double-check. You can even Google it right there in the store or at an antique shop.” Depop, eBay, and Vinted offer buyer protection guarantees, ensuring a refund if the item significantly differs from the description.

Present Them Well

Cardboard gift boxes make any gift look great. Photo: Purestock/Alamy

While many second-hand gifts may not come in their original packaging, you can present them beautifully with some extra care and thoughtful wrapping. Cardboard gift boxes are a versatile option to elevate the presentation of your gifts. Additionally, consider repurposing items you have at home, such as a shoebox for a makeshift basket or an old perfume box for stocking stuffers.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Daylight Saving Time in 2024 in the United States: Understanding the Reasons for Changing Clocks

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Daylight Saving Time in the United States will soon end, with clocks turning back an hour. As we bid farewell to long summer nights, we welcome cozy winter evenings and the upcoming holiday season.

When will the clocks change in November 2024?

In the United States, the time change will occur at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2024, marking the transition from daylight saving time (DST) to standard time.

Here’s how the time change will affect some major cities:

  • Los Angeles: Transition from Pacific Daylight Time to Pacific Standard Time. Sunrise will be delayed by an hour to 6:15 a.m. and sunset will shift to 4:57 p.m.
  • Chicago: Transition from Central Daylight Time to Central Standard Time. Sunset will move back to 4:41 p.m. and sunrise will be at 6:26 a.m.
  • New York and Washington DC: Transition from Eastern Daylight Saving Time to Eastern Standard Time. Sunrise will change to 6:29 a.m. and sunset to 4:49 p.m.

America follows six major time zones, which increase to nine when including regional variations. This is a significant improvement from the 144 local time zones that existed before time zones were consolidated in 1883.

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What is the history of daylight saving time?

The concept of daylight saving time was first proposed by New Zealand scientist George Hudson in 1895, with the aim of utilizing extra daylight for activities. The idea was later championed by British builder William Willett, who saw it as a way to maximize daylight hours. Daylight saving time was eventually adopted in various countries, including the United States during World War I.

The U.S. had a tumultuous relationship with daylight saving time, trialing and abandoning it multiple times before standardizing it in 1966.

Why do people want to abolish daylight saving time?

Critics of daylight saving time cite negative effects on health, economy, and pet behavior as reasons to abolish it. The time change can disrupt sleep patterns, decrease productivity, and confuse pets. Some states, like most of Arizona and Hawaii, have chosen not to observe daylight saving time due to various reasons.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Importance of Saving the Chandra Space Telescope

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Chandra X-ray Observatory

NASA/CXC & J. Vaughan

On July 23, 1999, just a few months before I enrolled in college, NASA’s Space Shuttle Columbia launched with a precious cargo. Not only was it carrying a crew led by the first woman, Eileen Collins, its primary purpose was to launch the Chandra X-ray Observatory, a new flagship space telescope. Chandra This was the heaviest payload ever carried by a NASA space shuttle and turned out to be one of the last two missions completed by Columbia before it tragically exploded after launch on February 1, 2003.

Chandra is the first, and so far only, NASA mission named after a person of color. The late theoretical astrophysicist and Nobel Prize winner Subramanian Chandrasekhar was called Chandra by his friends and family. Chandrasekhar, whose last name means “crown of the moon,” made many important contributions to astrophysics. His most important work was discovering the Chandrasekhar limit, the maximum mass a white dwarf remnant can have before it collapses into a black hole.

It's fitting that an X-ray telescope mission should be named after a scientist who has spent his life thinking about the physics of black holes, as X-ray telescopes play a key role in black hole research. X-rays are high-energy light waves, which means they are produced in extremely energetic environments, such as those around black holes, where extreme distortions of space-time cause strong gravitational forces to accelerate particles to extremely high speeds. In other words, when we look at the universe through the lens of X-ray astronomy, rather than the visible wavelengths of traditional telescopes, we see an entirely different universe.

Importantly, X-ray astronomy can't be done from the Earth's surface, because it's blocked by the Earth's atmosphere. That's good for human health, but not so good for astronomers. Chandra is therefore a reminder of just how important it is to keep low Earth orbit debris-free, so we can safely launch space telescopes that perform tasks that are simply beyond the control of the Earth.

I feel like I have grown up with Chandra. And not just because I attended college at Chandra headquarters, now known as the Center for Astrophysics (CfA) in Massachusetts, and was often mistakenly called “Chandra”. One of my lab projects as an undergraduate was to adjust the light-gathering part of Chandra's backup camera. The following year, I wrote my undergraduate thesis under the guidance of Martin Elvis, an expert in X-ray astronomy. My research focused on the particle winds that fly out of galaxies that contain supermassive black holes. I used Chandra data to analyze what structures these galaxies take. It is true that Martin's letter helped me secure admission to at least one PhD program. In other words, without Chandra, my career may never have begun.

I am one of thousands of scientists in the fields of physics and astronomy who can tell similar stories of how Chandra data was the foundation of the early stages of their careers, or how they have dedicated their lives to using Chandra to explore the mysteries of the universe. Laura Lopez Ohio State University has used Chandra for many years to study supernovae. Daniel Castronow a staff scientist at CfA, is doing the same thing. The three of us were postdoctoral fellows at MIT and are from a generation that grew up on the power of the Chandra X-ray Observatory.

Now, after 25 years in orbit, Chandra is under threat – not the reality of space debris and aging equipment, but the political climate. US President Joe Biden's appointees to head NASA recently tried to scale back the project, but the scientific community worked with Congress to save the mission. But things will never be the same. A compromise proposal, which has not yet been signed into law, would drastically cut Chandra's funding and limit its scientific scope. Notably, there is no scientific basis for opposing the plan. Recommendations They have an army of expert advisers, but NASA has cut funding it had already promised to scientists, leaving PhD students and postdocs without enough money to cover living expenses.

Chandra deserves better. And so does its global audience. Thanks to Chandra, we have discovered new neutron stars and learned about their interiors. Our knowledge of black holes has blossomed. We have gained a deeper understanding of stellar life cycles and the history of our galaxy. We have been able to study galaxy clusters and learn how dark matter is distributed within them, putting the Milky Way in context. There is still time to save Chandra, a monument to human ingenuity. The fact that it is still going strong after 25 years should be celebrated and it should be honoured by the continuation of the mission.

Chanda's Week

What I'm Reading

My friend is Andrea Kindried. From Slavery to the Stars: A Personal Journey And it's beautiful.

What I'm seeing

I've seen some classic episodes Star Trek: The Next Generation Like “Remember Me”.

What I'm working on

I am developing a new course that prepares students to understand science in a social context..

Chanda Prescod Weinstein is an associate professor of physics and astronomy and a faculty member of women's studies at the University of New Hampshire. Her latest book is A Disordered Universe: A Journey into Dark Matter, Space-Time, and Dreams Deferred.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Here’s How Daylight Saving Time Can Negatively Affect Our Health – And How to Take Action

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It feels harsh. Losing one precious hour of sleep tonight.

As Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins in the UK during the summer months, clocks are scheduled as follows: Move forward one hour tonight to 1 a.m. local time. As a result, the new local daylight saving time will be 2:00 AM.

Scientists are concerned that switching to daylight saving time could have negative effects on health, including an increase in strokes, heart attacks, car accidents, and sleep deprivation, according to neurology professor and director of Vanderbilt’s sleep division, Dr. Beth Murrow in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

The impact of “springing forward” is experienced not only by the elderly but also by young people. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that teens lost an average of 2 hours and 42 minutes of sleep on weeknights after the time change in 2015.

“We need morning light to wake up, set our body clocks, improve our mood, use light boxes in the morning to treat seasonal affective disorder, and sleep better at night.” Light promotes sleep at night, but light at night disturbs sleep,” Murrow explains.

Don’t worry, there are ways to combat the lost time. Here are some simple strategies:

1. Adjust your bedtime earlier for a few days before changing your clock.

If it’s too late this time, keep this in mind for the future. Sleep experts recommend going to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night during the week leading up to daylight saving time.

Temporary insomnia symptoms affect about 30 to 35 percent of adults and can be caused by sudden changes in sleep schedules, such as the transition to daylight saving time, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Gradually adapting to the time change will help you adjust and even get extra sleep during the transition, says Murrow.

If you’re feeling drowsy, it may be helpful to go to bed a bit earlier tonight.

2. Get exposure to bright light in the morning

DST aims to provide an extra hour of sunlight in the evening for socializing after work, but it can disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle or circadian rhythm.

To wake up in the morning and improve your sleep at night, exposing yourself to bright light is key. Natural light is preferred, especially in the summer when the sun rises earlier, according to Murrow.

“Exposure to bright morning light helps regulate your body clock, making it easier to sleep at night,” she explains.

3. Skip long naps and late-day caffeine, opt for exercise instead

If you enjoy naps, this may be disappointing news. But if you want to improve your sleep, avoid napping and caffeine.

Naps and caffeine can diminish your sleep drive, says Murrow. She suggests exercising instead.

Just remember, don’t exercise right before bed. Exercise can disrupt sleep as it raises your core body temperature and releases endorphins.

Research recommends waiting at least 90 minutes between exercising and going to bed to improve sleep quality, according to the European Journal of Sports Science.

4. Avoid using your phone before bedtime

It’s a well-known fact that using your phone before bed isn’t ideal, particularly when the clock shifts forward an hour.

Bright light in the morning helps wake you up, whereas bright light at night can hinder sleep. LED screens emit blue light, making them especially problematic at night.

Blue light disrupts the natural release of melatonin in the brain, says Murrow. Melatonin acts as a sleep switch by signaling the brain to rest when levels rise.

It may be time to eliminate daylight saving time

Despite strategies to mitigate the impact of clock changes, many experts advocate for eliminating this outdated system altogether.

Is it time for standard time to become the new norm?

alice gregory a professor of psychology and director of the Goldsmiths Sleep Institute, believes that living on a permanent standard time schedule offers health benefits. “Most people are tired of literally going back and forth,” Murrow agrees.

About our experts:

Dr. Beth Murrow is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist, an associate professor of clinical research, and the director of Vanderbilt’s Sleep Division. She conducts research on the relationship between medical diseases and sleep, as well as genetics and circadian biology.

alice gregory is a psychology professor at Goldsmiths University and has contributed to various research areas including the link between sleep and psychopathology, behavioral genetics, and sleep disorders. She is also known for her public engagement in science and has published popular science books.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Here’s why daylight saving time can harm your health and how to mitigate its effects

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It feels unfair. I will be sacrificing an hour of sleep tonight.

With Daylight Saving Time (DST) starting in the United States in the summer, the clocks are set to move forward by an hour tonight at 2 a.m. local time. This means the new local daylight saving time will be 3:00 AM.

Scientists are expressing concerns that apart from causing sleepiness, the transition to daylight saving time could have adverse effects on our health. According to Dr. Beth Murrow, a neurology professor and director of Vanderbilt’s sleep division, the clock change leads to a slight increase in strokes, heart attacks, car accidents, and sleep deprivation.

The impact of “springing forward” is not limited to the elderly but also affects young people. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine revealed that teenagers lost an average of 2 hours and 42 minutes of sleep on weeknights after the time change in a 2015 study.

Dr. Murrow emphasizes the importance of morning light for setting our body clocks, improving mood, and aiding sleep. She suggests that the shift in light from morning to evening due to changing clocks for almost eight months could have health effects.

Despite the challenges posed by losing an hour of sleep, there are practical tips to counteract the effects:

1. Adjust your bedtime earlier for a few days before the clock change.

Experts recommend gradually going to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier each night in the week leading up to daylight saving time.

American Academy of Sleep Medicine mentions that around 30 to 35 percent of adults experience temporary insomnia symptoms due to sudden changes in sleep schedules, such as the clock change.

Adapting slowly to the new time can help ease the transition and provide some extra rest,” says Dr. Murrow.

2. Get exposure to bright light in the morning

Daylight Saving Time aims to extend daylight in the evening, but this may disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle. Exposing yourself to natural light in the morning can help set your body clock, making it easier to sleep at night.

3. Avoid long naps and late-day caffeine, opt for exercise instead

Avoiding long naps and caffeine late in the day can help regulate your sleep. Instead, engage in physical activity which can promote better sleep at night.

Exercise should be done at least 90 minutes before bedtime to avoid disruptions in sleep caused by increased endorphins and core body temperature.

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4. Limit screen time before bed

Exposure to blue light from screens like cell phones can interfere with melatonin production, affecting sleep. Try to avoid using electronic devices before bedtime to promote better sleep.

Watching content with blue light before bed, like news, can hinder relaxation and sleep after the clock change.

Consider abolishing Daylight Saving Time

Many experts suggest abandoning Daylight Saving Time due to its negative impacts on health. Living on Standard Time year-round could have health benefits compared to Daylight Saving Time’s schedule changes.

Dr. Murrow and Professor Alice Gregory advocate for a permanent Standard Time to align better with our natural circadian rhythms and improve overall well-being.

About our experts:

Dr. Beth Murrow is a neurology and sleep medicine professor, director of Vanderbilt’s Sleep Division, and advocate for sleep research related to medical conditions and genetics.

Alice Gregory, a psychology professor at Goldsmiths University, has contributed to various areas of sleep research and promotes public engagement with science through her work and publications.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is aerosol injection a solution to saving ice?

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A recent study from Indiana University’s Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences suggests that utilizing stratospheric aerosol injection to scatter sunlight-reflecting particles in the atmosphere could help slow the rapid melting of West Antarctica. This strategy aims to reduce the risk of catastrophic sea level rise due to climate change. The study shows that even with efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, significant sea level rise is still expected.

The study is one of the first to explore the effects of climate engineering on Antarctica, particularly focusing on the accelerating ice loss in West Antarctica. Researchers used high-performance computers and global climate models to simulate various stratospheric aerosol injection scenarios. The data analysis for the study was conducted on Carbonate, a large-memory computer cluster at IU University Information Technology Services.

The results of the study indicate that releasing stratospheric aerosols at multiple latitudes in the tropics and subtropics, with a larger proportion in the Southern Hemisphere, could be the best strategy for preserving Antarctic land ice. The researchers also emphasize the need for further research to quantify changes in melt rates and stress the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with stratospheric aerosol injection. These risks include changes in regional precipitation patterns and the potential for global temperatures to rapidly return to pre-injection levels if treatment is interrupted.

The study expands knowledge about the potential benefits and drawbacks of intentionally cooling the Earth and contributes to a growing conversation about geoengineering in response to the effects of climate change. While more research is needed, the findings highlight the importance of understanding how stratospheric aerosol injection affects the Antarctic region.

Source: scitechdaily.com