Technology

NASA has initiated two scientific missions focused on unraveling the mysteries of the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. The missions aim to deepen our understanding of the electrical currents within the aurora and the behavior of electrons that cause this spectacular natural phenomenon. This research is crucial not only for advancing our knowledge of space weather but also for mitigating potential disruptions to terrestrial technologies.

The core objective of these missions is to investigate what causes electrons to sometimes flow *away* from Earth into space, rather than towards the planet. Understanding this reversal is key to predicting and protecting against space weather events that can impact power grids, communication systems, and satellite operations. The missions launched from the Poker Flat Research Range near Fairbanks, Alaska, utilizing two rockets equipped with specialized scientific instruments to gather unprecedented data from the upper atmosphere.

Mapping the Aurora’s Electrical Currents with GNEISS

One of the missions, named GNEISS (Geophysical Non-Equilibrium Ionospheric System Science), employs a technique analogous to medical CT scans to create a three-dimensional map of electrical currents within the aurora. According to NASA, the aurora forms when electrons originating from space collide with Earth’s atmosphere, causing the sky to glow. These electrons move in circular paths, but the direction of these paths is often unpredictable, making their study complex. GNEISS addresses this challenge by simultaneously launching two rockets through an arc of the aurora, each deploying four sub-units that transmit radio signals to ground-based receivers. This allows scientists to visualize the distribution of currents within the aurora in detail.

The mission is planned to integrate its findings with data from NASA’s EZIE satellite, launched in March 2025, to further refine predictive models of space weather impacts. Youm7 reports that scientists hope to develop a more accurate method for forecasting the effects of auroral activity.

Investigating the “Black Aurora” with BADASS

The second mission, referred to as “BADASS,” focuses on studying a rare event known as the “black aurora.” This phenomenon occurs when electrons ascend into space instead of flowing towards Earth. Okaz details that the mission aims to understand the mechanisms behind this unusual occurrence. The data collected will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of electron behavior in the Earth’s magnetosphere.

Both missions launched from the Poker Flat Research Range in Alaska on February 16, 2026. The Saudi Press Agency confirmed the launch date and location. The instruments onboard the rockets are designed to collect precise data from the upper atmosphere during a short period, providing information about the aurora that has not been previously recorded.

Studying the aurora is considered a vital task due to its connection to geomagnetic storms, which can disrupt technological systems. As reported by Okaz, understanding these connections is crucial for protecting infrastructure on Earth and in space.

The data gathered from these missions will be analyzed by NASA scientists to refine existing models of the Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere. This improved understanding will contribute to more accurate space weather forecasts and better protection of critical infrastructure. The combined insights from GNEISS and BADASS promise a significant leap forward in our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather events.

Looking ahead, the integration of data from these missions with existing satellite observations and ground-based instruments will be essential for building a comprehensive picture of the aurora and its impact on our planet. The findings will inform future research and potentially lead to the development of new technologies for space weather forecasting and mitigation.

What are your thoughts on NASA’s latest exploration of the aurora borealis? Share your comments below and let us know what aspects of space weather research you find most compelling.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – While the world watches athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin and Breezy Johnson push the limits of speed and skill on the slopes of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, another kind of athlete is also at play: the drone pilot. These remotely piloted aircraft are delivering breathtaking, high-pace visuals that are transforming the viewing experience for audiences worldwide, offering perspectives previously unattainable in live sports broadcasting. The use of drone technology at the Olympics represents a significant evolution in sports broadcasting, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for viewers.

The integration of drone cameras isn’t simply about capturing pretty pictures; it’s about fundamentally changing how we understand and experience the speed and complexity of alpine skiing. Traditional camera angles, while effective, often struggle to convey the sheer velocity and technical precision of a downhill run. Drones, however, can track athletes in real-time, mirroring their movements and providing a sense of being right alongside them as they navigate the course. This innovative approach to sports coverage is quickly becoming a hallmark of the 2026 Winter Games.

A New Perspective on the Downhill

Standing on a tower overlooking the cliffs of the Cortina downhill course, the operators of these drones are as integral to the spectacle as the skiers themselves. They’re responsible for capturing the stunning aerial footage that brings the race to life for television viewers. Breezy Johnson’s gold medal win in the individual downhill event on Sunday, February 8, 2026, was captured with a new level of dynamism thanks to these aerial perspectives, as reported by NBC News. The ability to follow Johnson’s run with a fluid, unbroken shot highlighted the challenging terrain and her incredible skill.

The drones used at the Olympics are equipped with advanced stabilization technology and high-resolution cameras, allowing them to capture smooth, clear footage even at high speeds. Operators must navigate complex regulations and safety protocols to ensure the drones don’t interfere with the athletes or other aerial operations. The precision flying required demands highly skilled pilots and sophisticated control systems.

Shiffrin and Johnson’s Team Combined Performance

While Mikaela Shiffrin and Breezy Johnson missed the podium in the Alpine skiing women’s team combined event on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, finishing in fourth place by a mere 0.06 seconds, the broadcast still benefited from the dynamic drone footage. As The Associated Press reported, the event showcased the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. Johnson’s strong downhill performance was visually amplified by the drone’s ability to follow her descent, emphasizing the steepness and technical difficulty of the course. The U.S. Team of Jacqueline Wiles and Paula Moltzan did manage to secure a bronze medal in the same event, a moment also captured with the assist of aerial views.

Shiffrin, 30, racing for the first time in the Olympics on Tuesday, struggled in the slalom portion of the race, placing 15th out of 18 finishers. Despite this, the broadcast team utilized drone footage to illustrate the challenges she faced and the nuances of the course, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the competition.

Beyond the Race: Expanding the Viewing Experience

The use of drones extends beyond capturing the action on the slopes. They are also being used to showcase the stunning scenery of the Italian Alps, providing viewers with a broader sense of the Olympic host region. This aerial perspective adds another layer of immersion, allowing audiences to appreciate the beauty of the landscape that surrounds the events.

The technology isn’t without its challenges. Weather conditions, particularly wind and snow, can significantly impact drone operation. Operators must constantly monitor conditions and adjust their flight plans accordingly. Maintaining a secure and reliable connection between the drone and the control system is crucial to prevent disruptions during live broadcasts.

What’s Next for Drone Technology in Sports?

The integration of drone technology at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is likely just the beginning. As drone technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative applications in sports broadcasting. Future developments may include the use of drones for virtual reality and augmented reality experiences, allowing viewers to interact with the events in entirely new ways. The potential for drones to enhance the viewing experience is vast, and the 2026 Winter Olympics are providing a glimpse into the future of sports coverage.

What are your thoughts on the use of drone cameras at the Olympics? Share your comments below and let us recognize how you think this technology is changing the way we watch sports!

A recent post in the Chilean tech community forum, chileIT, has sparked a wave of nostalgia among long-time computer users: a link to a Microsoft Word tutorial dating back to 1989. The discovery highlights the evolution of word processing software and offers a fascinating glimpse into the computing landscape of nearly four decades ago. The post, shared with the subreddit’s 31,000 members, quickly gained traction as users reminisced about early experiences with personal computers and the challenges of mastering software with limited graphical interfaces.

The shared tutorial, a relic from the early days of Microsoft Word, demonstrates how significantly software design and user experience have changed. In 1989, Microsoft Word was still establishing itself as a dominant force in the word processing market, competing with programs like WordPerfect. The tutorial focuses on fundamental tasks – formatting text, saving documents, and basic editing – but the methods and interface are strikingly different from modern versions. The discussion centers around the simplicity, or lack thereof, of early software and the steep learning curves users faced. The post underscores the rapid pace of technological advancement and the often-forgotten history behind the tools we use daily.

The State of IT in Chile

The renewed interest in vintage software comes as Chile’s Information Technology (IT) sector continues to experience significant growth. According to a report from November 2025, the IT market in Chile is expected to grow by $4.76 billion from 2024-2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 10 percent. This expansion is fueled by the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) by Chilean companies, the proliferation of digital information, and a growing demand for IT services, including education, consulting, and software support. The total software market in Chile is projected to reach $2.49 billion in 2025, a roughly 13 percent increase from the previous year ([International Trade Administration](https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/chile-information-technologies)).

Early Word Processing: A Different World

The 1989 Microsoft Word tutorial showcases a user interface vastly different from today’s ribbon-based systems. Commands were often accessed through text-based menus or keyboard shortcuts, requiring users to memorize complex sequences. Graphical elements were limited by the hardware capabilities of the time, and features we now seize for granted – such as spell check, grammar check, and automatic formatting – were either rudimentary or non-existent. The tutorial’s focus on basic operations reflects the limitations of the software and the computing power available to users at the time.

The chileIT community, described as a gathering place for IT workers and students in Chile ([Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/chileIT/)), and a hub for technology enthusiasts ([GroupLinksHub](https://www.grouplinkshub.com/groups/chileit/)), is actively discussing the tutorial. Members are sharing their own memories of learning to use early versions of Word and other software, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of navigating a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The conversation too touches on the importance of understanding the history of computing to appreciate the advancements that have been made.

Chiletec, a group focused on knowledge-based service exports, projects that the sector could reach $15 billion in exports within a decade, surpassing even the wine industry’s current $1.7 billion in annual exports ([Chiletec](https://chiletec.org/)). This growth is driven by the increasing demand for IT services globally and Chile’s growing reputation as a center for technological innovation.

Looking Ahead

The rediscovery of this 1989 Microsoft Word tutorial serves as a reminder of how far technology has come in a relatively short period. As Chile continues to invest in its IT sector and embrace new technologies like AI, it’s important to remember the foundations upon which these advancements are built. The ongoing discussion within the chileIT community demonstrates a vibrant interest in the history of computing and a commitment to fostering innovation in the future.

What are your earliest memories of using Microsoft Word or other word processing software? Share your experiences in the comments below!