Short Takes – 4-11-25

'City-killer' asteroid that might hit moon has 'unexpected' shape, astronomers say. LiveScience.com article. Pull quote: “However, astronomers always expected the threat level to drop once they learned more about 2024 YRY's trajectory. Within days, the likelihood plummeted to effectively zero, and has a 0.00078% chance of hitting Earth in 2032 at the time of writing. However, there remains a risk for the moon — not that the asteroid would significantly damage the moon even if it does hit.”

SpaceX to launch new Intuitive Machines moon lander, lunar satellites in 2027. Space.com article. Space.com article. Pull quote: “Intuitive Machines' IM-4 moon lander will carry six NASA payloads under a contract with the agency's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. A new drill experiment built by the European Space Agency to hunt for water near the moon's south pole, will be aboard.”

Elon Musk’s xAI allegedly uses illegal generators to power Colossus supercomputer facility. TomsHardware.com article. Note: illegal means unpermitted in this case. Pull quote: “However, the company had only sought permits for 15 units, but aerial images now show double that number in operation. Apparently, 20 gas generators are now running without the required approvals, raising alarm from environmental groups and nearby residents, according to The Guardian who refer to KeShaun Pearson, director of the advocacy group Memphis Community Against Pollution. Pearson stated to the Shelby count board of commissioners (Memphis, Tennessee) that xAI is using 35 methane gas burning turbines while only having a permit for 15.”

NOAA budget proposal would affect weather satellite, other space programs. SpaceNews.com article. Pull quote: “According to a source familiar with the contents of the passback, OMB seeks a “major overhaul” of the GeoXO program. That would include removing instruments perceived to focus on climate rather than weather data, such as those that study atmospheric composition and ocean color.”