Latest news with #KSC
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Amid cuts, Trump's proposed NASA budget would lay waste to new Artemis launch tower
Work for now continues daily at Kennedy Space Center on a new mobile launch tower that has already cost more than $1 billion. But the Artemis moon mission it is intended to serve may never happen if President Trump's plans for NASA come to fruition. The mobile launcher 2 has been rising steadily at a construction site just north of the massive Vehicle Assembly Building, where it stands now at 320 feet tall on its way to a target of 390 feet. It's designed to support a larger version of the Space Launch System rocket called the SLS Block 1B beginning with the Artemis IV mission. But Trump's proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 has spiked future use of the SLS rocket after Artemis III, a move that comes amid $6 billion in cuts to the agency's overall spending plan. An existing mobile launcher, ML-1, was used on the uncrewed Artemis I test flight of SLS and the Orion spacecraft in 2022, and is in place within the VAB for the Artemis II mission, a crewed flight that will go around but not land on the moon. It is set to fly in early 2026. ML-1 would be used for a final time for the Artemis III mission, which aims to return humans to the surface of the moon as early as summer 2027. But after that, Trump wants to find different solutions to send crew and cargo to the moon and onto Mars. That would leave ML-2 with no purpose, and its fate could be similar to its predecessor, which sat unused at KSC for years after the end of the Constellation program. Eventually, though, the launcher was repurposed for use on the first three Artemis missions. 'NASA will close out Mobile Launcher-2 development, as ML-2 will not be needed to support SLS due to the orderly shutdown of the SLS Block 1B upgrade,' reads the budget proposal. 'NASA proposes to use previously appropriated unobligated balances to support the termination of these activities, including but not limited to, ongoing administration, oversight, and monitoring.' That would include money that would be paid out to lead contractor Bechtel National Inc., which was initially awarded a $383 million contract in 2019 with a delivery date of 2023. NASA's Office of the Inspector General released an audit in August 2024 that said the costs had already nearly tripled to more than $1 billion with the delivery date pushed to no later than November 2026. The budget also calls for an end to NASA's Exploration Ground Systems team that supports Artemis launches. NASA, which employs for now around 18,000, has not said how many people fall under EGS, but its budgets in 2024 and 2025 neared $884 million. Trump's proposed budget would drop that to $658 million for 2026, $700 million in 2027, $500 million in 2028, and then nothing beyond that. 'NASA will utilize a commercial partnership through a competitive contract to transport crew for future Artemis missions,' the budget proposal states. The move to kill the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft by Trump comes amid criticism of the program's continued delays and ballooning costs. The OIG in a 2023 audit warned that by the time Artemis III finally flies, NASA will have spent more than $93 billion across its various facets including SLS, Orion and Exploration Ground Systems. Instead, Trump's goal is to rely on commercial launch providers such as SpaceX's in-development Starship and Blue Origin's New Glenn for future moon and Mars missions. 'New transportation services contracts will permit more frequent missions to the moon while at the same time freeing up resources to invest in the infrastructure necessary to conduct longer stays on the lunar surface than ever before,' reads a note within the budget proposal from interim NASA Administrator Janet Petro. Overall, Trump's proposed NASA budget would drop dramatically from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion, proposing to kill off not only future SLS launches, but gutting much of the agency's science portfolio. 'This budget is a retreat, a narrowing of ambition,' reads a critical statement from nonprofit group The Planetary Society. 'This request represents the smallest NASA budget since FY 1961 — a level enacted before the first American had launched into space.' Calling it an 'extinction-level event' for NASA's science efforts, the group noted the budget would kill 41 science projects, or 1/3 of NASA's science portfolio. But the agency contends it's focusing on moon and Mars missions instead. 'With a leaner budget across all of government, we are all taking a closer look at how we work, where we invest, and how we adjust our methods to accomplish our mission,' the proposal reads. 'At NASA, that means placing a renewed emphasis on human spaceflight – increasing investments in a sustainable plan to return to the Moon for long-term human exploration and accelerating efforts to send American astronauts to Mars.' A shift from a nationally sponsored rocket program to reliance on commercial partners for launch doesn't necessarily mean an economic downturn for the Space Coast, according to the Space Florida, the state's aerospace economic development entity. 'Florida's strategic investments over the years have paid off in building a diverse and robust ecosystem that's well-positioned to fuel the growth of the aerospace sector — regardless of how national priorities evolve,' said Space Florida's Director of Public Relations Alayna Curry. Part of that is a massive $1.8 billion infrastructure project by SpaceX to support two launch sites of Starship once it becomes operational. Despite the uncertain future, Bechtel continues to work on the job given. 'We're constantly looking at potential (fiscal) challenges based on priorities and other things that are going on within NASA,' said Michael Costas, general manager of Defense and Space Business with Bechtel, in November just after the election. 'They're having to work through whatever challenges they're facing. But of course — new administration — there's a lot of folks looking at efficiencies.' Congress is the ultimate decider on what gets funded for NASA, though, and without a viable replacement for SLS in place yet, it may be that ML-2 still has a future. NASA had continued to tout its progress on regular updates through the first several months of the year. The latest addition was added in May with only two more to come. Bechtel's goal was to hand over to NASA the completed tower no later than November 2026, which would give NASA enough time to prep it for what was supposed to be an Artemis IV flight by September 2028. NASA included the previous added sections in a list of achievement in Trump's first 100 days in office, stating 'the agency's next-generation mobile launcher continues to take shape, with the sixth of 10 massive modules being installed. This structure will carry future Artemis rockets to the launch pad.' That was before the proposed budget came out, though. 'We must continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars,' reads the budget proposal. 'That means making strategic decisions — including scaling back or discontinuing ineffective efforts not aligned with our moon and Mars exploration priorities.' The warnings from The Planetary Society, which have been echoed by many naysayers to Trump's new direction, say the agency is choosing a ruinous path. 'President Trump has stated he is 'committed to ensuring that America continues to lead the way in fueling the pursuit of space discovery and exploration',' the Society's statement reads. 'This budget does the exact opposite: laying waste to the nation's ability to lead in scientific discovery, destroying the economic powerhouse that is NASA, and abandoning allies around the globe.'
Kuwait News Agency
06-05-2025
- Science
- Kuwait News Agency
11th Kuwait Science, Engineering Competition exhibition kicks off
KUWAIT, May 4 (KUNA) -- Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Al-Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, former foreign minister, inaugurated Sunday the 11th Kuwait Science and Engineering Competition exhibition. The competition and its exhibition are organized by Kuwait Science Club (KSC) with support from Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) and under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Al-Nasser toured the exhibition's various pavilions accompanied by the Chairman of KSC, Talal Jassem Al-Kharafi, and members of the Board of Directors, during which he talked with the participating students about their scientific projects. He also met with the chairman and members of the competition's jury panel, which comprises around 60 academic specialists from Kuwait's universities and scientific institutes, and took commemorative photographs with the jury, students, and KSC board members. Vice Chairperson of KSC and Head of the competition's higher committee Sheikha Sheikha Mohammad Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah said in a press statement that the competition represents a comprehensive national project aimed at nurturing a new generation of creative talents in research and innovation. She added that the competition has evolved beyond being a mere contest into an educational and professional experience that spans an entire academic year. Sheikha Sheikha highlighted that in its 11th edition, the competition has proven to be a solid scientific platform attracting students from both public and private schools across Kuwait, noting that the continuous support from governmental and private sectors as well as civil society has ensured its sustainability since inception and strengthened its credibility and position, allowing it to represent Kuwait in international forums. She expressed appreciation for the exceptional efforts exerted by professors and specialists across various scientific disciplines who have continuously supported the students since the competition's inception, emphasizing that their commitment enhances the competition's scientific credibility and ensures fair and precise project evaluation. KSC Board Member and Deputy Head of the competition's higher committee Asrar Al-Ansari stated in a similar press statement that the competition serves as a comprehensive national program dedicated to fostering young researchers and innovators in Kuwait. Al-Ansari said that the Science Club has the capabilities to attract students from all governorates and schools across Kuwait, expressing KSC's full readiness to embrace and nurture promising scientific projects. She noted that the competition comprises 22 diverse scientific fields, notably including the field of social and behavioral sciences, which is rarely represented in similar contests, reflecting the organizing committee's keenness on scientific diversity and providing opportunities for all participants regardless of their varied interests. Al-Ansari reaffirmed the Club's ongoing commitment to enhancing a culture of scientific research and innovation among youth, enabling them to present distinctive projects contributing to Kuwait's scientific future, calling on all intermediate and secondary-level students to participate actively and showcase their talents and innovations. For his part, head of the KSC's Development and Competitive Programs Sector Dr. Mohammad Al-Saffar said the competition aims to spread a culture of research and innovation among pre-university students and provide a competitive environment conducive to discovering talents and developing young people's capabilities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Al-Saffar described the competition as a scientific forum for exchanging research experiences and establishing sustainable communication networks, opening future opportunities for research collaboration. He praised the efforts of key partners such as the Kuwait University, the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), which provide academic support to the participating students. He also highlighted the essential role played by KFAS in supporting the competition, promoting scientific culture, and encouraging students' engagement in scientific research. (end)
Kuwait Times
05-05-2025
- Science
- Kuwait Times
KSEC exhibition promotes innovations
KUWAIT: Sheikh Dr Ahmad Al-Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated on Sunday the 11th edition of the Kuwait Science and Engineering Competition (KSEC) exhibition. The event, organized by the Kuwait Science Club (KSC) with the support of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. During a tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Dr Ahmad Al-Nasser visited various pavilions accompanied by KSC Chairman Talal Jassem Al-Kharafi and members of the Board of Directors. He engaged with participating students, discussing their scientific innovations, and met with members of the competition's jury panel, which includes around 60 academic experts from local universities and scientific institutions. Commemorative photographs were taken with the students, jury members, and KSC officials. In a press statement, KSC Vice Chairperson and Head of the competition's higher committee Sheikha Sheikha Mohammad Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah described KSEC as a national initiative aimed at fostering a generation of creative youth in the fields of research and innovation. She noted that the competition has grown beyond a traditional contest, evolving into an integrated educational experience that spans the entire academic year. Highlighting the success of the current edition, Sheikha Sheikha said the competition has solidified its position as a leading scientific platform, drawing students from both public and private schools across Kuwait. She credited sustained support from government bodies, private institutions, and civil society for the competition's continuity and credibility, enabling it to represent Kuwait on international platforms. She also commended the efforts of professors and academic specialists who have consistently guided students since the competition's inception, underscoring their role in ensuring fair and rigorous evaluation of projects. KSC Board Member and Deputy Head of the higher committee Asrar Al-Ansari echoed these sentiments, stating that the competition serves as a comprehensive national platform dedicated to empowering young researchers and innovators. Al-Ansari emphasized KSC's readiness to embrace promising scientific talent from all governorates, noting that this year's edition features 22 diverse scientific categories, including the often-overlooked field of social and behavioral sciences. She reaffirmed the Club's dedication to cultivating a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation among youth, encouraging students at the intermediate and secondary levels to actively participate and showcase their talents. For his part, Dr Mohammad Al-Saffar, Head of KSC's Development and Competitive Programs Sector, said the competition aims to foster a spirit of scientific research and innovation among pre-university students while providing a dynamic, competitive environment for talent discovery and development in STEM fields. He described KSEC as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and future research collaboration. Al-Saffar praised the contributions of academic institutions such as Kuwait University, the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) for supporting student participants, and lauded the pivotal role of KFAS in promoting scientific culture and student engagement in research. — KUNA
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Is Now The Time To Look At Buying KPS AG (ETR:KSC)?
KPS AG (ETR:KSC), is not the largest company out there, but it saw significant share price movement during recent months on the XTRA, rising to highs of €0.92 and falling to the lows of €0.70. Some share price movements can give investors a better opportunity to enter into the stock, and potentially buy at a lower price. A question to answer is whether KPS' current trading price of €0.73 reflective of the actual value of the small-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Let's take a look at KPS's outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change. We've discovered 2 warning signs about KPS. View them for free. The stock seems fairly valued at the moment according to our valuation model. It's trading around 6.2% below our intrinsic value, which means if you buy KPS today, you'd be paying a fair price for it. And if you believe the company's true value is €0.78, then there's not much of an upside to gain from mispricing. So, is there another chance to buy low in the future? Given that KPS's share is fairly volatile (i.e. its price movements are magnified relative to the rest of the market) this could mean the price can sink lower, giving us an opportunity to buy later on. This is based on its high beta, which is a good indicator for share price volatility. View our latest analysis for KPS Future outlook is an important aspect when you're looking at buying a stock, especially if you are an investor looking for growth in your portfolio. Although value investors would argue that it's the intrinsic value relative to the price that matter the most, a more compelling investment thesis would be high growth potential at a cheap price. KPS' earnings over the next few years are expected to increase by 78%, indicating a highly optimistic future ahead. This should lead to more robust cash flows, feeding into a higher share value. Are you a shareholder? It seems like the market has already priced in KSC's positive outlook, with shares trading around its fair value. However, there are also other important factors which we haven't considered today, such as the financial strength of the company. Have these factors changed since the last time you looked at the stock? Will you have enough confidence to invest in the company should the price drop below its fair value? Are you a potential investor? If you've been keeping tabs on KSC, now may not be the most optimal time to buy, given it is trading around its fair value. However, the positive outlook is encouraging for the company, which means it's worth diving deeper into other factors such as the strength of its balance sheet, in order to take advantage of the next price drop. So while earnings quality is important, it's equally important to consider the risks facing KPS at this point in time. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for KPS (1 is a bit unpleasant) you should be familiar with. If you are no longer interested in KPS, you can use our free platform to see our list of over 50 other stocks with a high growth potential. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Sign in to access your portfolio
Time of India
22-04-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Punjab FC crush Odisha FC 3-0 to secure quarterfinals spot in Kalinga Super Cup
Punjab FC displayed dominance to defeat Odisha FC 3-0 of the Kalinga Super Cup (KSC) Round of 16 match at the Kalinga Stadium on Monday, as per the official website of ISL. The win secured a quarterfinal spot for the team. The hosts were outplayed thanks to goals from Nihal Sudeesh, Ezequiel Vidal, and Asmir Suljic. They will meet FC Goa in the quarterfinals on April 26, who defeated the I-League team Gokulam Kerala FC by a similar score. Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis opted for an aggressive 4-2-4 formation, trusting his all-Indian defence line of Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Suresh Meitei, Paramveer, and Abhishek Singh. GIF89a����!�,D; 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Scarlett Johansson Leaves Everyone Speechless with Her Vacation Look 33 Bridges Undo Earlier on, it was Odisha FC, who dominated possession. However it was Punjab FC who fired the first warning shot, with Suljic testing Amrinder in the 5th minute. The visitors, pressing high and showing intent, took the lead in the 14th minute. Odisha FC's best chance came in the 36th minute when Dorielton found himself one-on-one with the Punjab's Muheet but missed the target. A minute later, Boumous tested Muheet again, only to be denied by a brilliant reflex save. Live Events Just before halftime, Suljic and Shabong combined, but the final shot lacked sting. Punjab went into the break with a 1-0 lead. Punjab FC made a change early in the second half, with Ashish Pradhan replacing Nikhil Prabhu. But the change did not slow down their momentum. The visitors continued to threaten Odisha's defence with swift passing and clever link-ups between Vidal and Suljic. In the 56th minute, Vidal nearly scored with a two-shot attempt, with his second going just wide. Odisha had several buildups but struggled with their finishing. Punjab's defence stood tall, with goalkeeper Muheet once again stepping up when required. In the 69th minute, Vidal turned on the flair, unleashing a brilliant left-footed shot from outside the box that bulleted into the far corner to double Punjab FC's lead. Punjab continued to stick to their game plan, absorbing pressure, staying compact, and waiting for their moment. With the match heading into the final stretch, Odisha pushed hard but were repeatedly shut down by the Punjab's all Indian backline. In the 90th minute, the visitors sealed the match in style. Substitute Manglenthang Kipgen played a perfectly timed ball from the half-line to Nihal Sudeesh, who calmly beat the keeper and slotted in Punjab FC's third of the night. The visitors kept pushing even in stoppage time, trying to find their fourth. At the final whistle, it was a complete performance from Dilmperis' men to sail into the quarter-finals.
