Technology
AstroAgency and Scotland’s Environmental Strategy for Space Industry
The space industry in Scotland is growing faster compared with other parts of the UK. It recorded 12% year-on-year (while the UK as a whole has grown 3%). Thus, the industry could boost the country’s economy in the post-COVID era. Parallel to the strategies to further expand the industry, there are also attempts to provide data solutions to combat climate change. Plus, Astroagency, a Scottish marketing agency, sees that the space industry in the country could flourish sustainably.
But could launching rockets ever be green and sustainable with the proposed creation of more spaceports and regular blast-offs?
The importance of Scotland’s thriving space industry
The space industry is thriving, according to Mr. Daniel Smith of the Scottish Space Leadership Council and founder of AstroAgency. AstroAgency is a strategic marketing company that assists space enterprises, start-ups as well as non-space organizations. The AstroAgency founder also revealed that Glasglow and five other spaceports are the key contributors to future space-related activities in Europe.
The proposed locations are Unst in Shetland, North Uist (Western Isles), Machrihanish in Argyll, the Moine Peninsula in Sutherland, and Preswick Airport in Ayrshire. The proposed spaceports may launch human space flights by the year 2035. Potentially, the launching of small, micro, and nano-satellites might be conducted in Space Hub Sutherland (Northwest Highlands), Spaceport (North Uist), and SaxaVord Spaceport in Unst. Moreover, rocket manufacturer, Orbex, has set up its UK headquarters in Forres, Moray.
Scotland’s History in the Space Industry
However, Scotland’s ventures into the space industry happened many years ago. Rocket launches have been conducted since the 1930s. In 2016, a rocket launched from the Hebrides Rocket Range military missile test site became the first vehicle launched into space from the UK.
After three years, a balloon created to bring satellites into orbit was tested from SaxaVord Spaceport. It was considered the UK’s first commercial spaceflight-related activity.
In 2020, the UK’s first official ground rocket test was carried out in 50 years. The Skylark-L rocket, measuring 11 meters (36 feet), launched into space at Kildermorie Estate by Skyrora space technologies. The rocket simulated all the flight actions while restrained to the ground to prevent it from taking off.
Then, last month, the East Anglian company launched a flight tested vehicle known as ADA. It was part of the plan to open Spaceport 1 at Scolpaig, North Uist, in 2022.
Several organizations mentioned earlier also support the projects. These include the Western Isles local authority Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, public agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and Melness Crofters’ Estate. Consequently, the estate’s chairperson Dorothy Pritchard predicted that opening a spaceport in Sutherland would create more jobs for skilled young residents in the Highlands.
According to her, the proposed project will create the world’s working croft land and carbon-neutral space tech lab. But of course, they will make sure that the traditional crofting community, Sutherland’s beautiful landscape, and the wildlife will remain protected.
Environmental challenges
Scotland’s spacecraft operations might not be as grand as those by NASA. However, even small-scale rocket launches still pose environmental problems. Let’s cite some examples of environmental threats caused by the space industry.
First is the management of used fuels from rockets and satellites. These fuels can include harmful and corrosive materials like hydrogen peroxide, hydrazine, or nuclear materials. Second, rocket engines can also produce tremendous amounts of sulfur and greenhouse gases and leave soot in the atmosphere. Lastly, the debris or space junks can include hundreds of millions of broken satellites and fragments floating around the Earth’s orbit.
Mr. Daniel Smith said that space debris is probably the most common problem. It poses risks of collisions with working satellites, the International Space Station, and the astronauts operating it.
Space Industry and Climate Change
Companies are doing their share to combat the negative impacts of the space industry on the environment, for instance. Orbex is planning to use a completely renewable biofuel. Meanwhile, the Scottish Space Leadership Council – Sustainable Space Task Force has gathered manufacturers, data firms, and others in a campaign to make space explorations less damaging to Earth.
The industry is responding to the call of the Scottish government to solve the identified challenges in the space sector. Scotland’s conducted the first Sustainable Space Summit in June 2021, wherein First Minister Nicola Sturgeon delivered a message.
A public organization called NatureScot and environmental group Friend of the Earth Scotland are also supporting the campaign. On the other hand, Edinburgh-based Skykorora is formulating a process for making fuel from unrecyclable plastics.
Daniel Smith of AstroAgency said that the space industry is serious in combatting climate change.
Criticisms against spaceports
There is strong opposition to the plans to open a spaceport in the Highlands and North Uist. Also, the application for Space Hub Sutherland stirred many objections, mainly for environmental reasons.
It is also questioned by the Protect The Mhoine (PTM) pressure group, while the wealthy Anders and Anne Holch Povlsen went to court to oppose the project. The couple who owns land near the proposed site is against the project, saying that it negatively impacts protected habitats. Their company, Wildland Ltd, filed legal action against Highland Council’s approval of the said project.
Further, the couple argued that the decision failed to consider the natural environment and wildlife risks. However, the judge rejected the appeal in August 2021, saying that the couple’s argument did not persuade him that the local officials violated the law. On the contrary, the Povlsens have invested almost £1.5m in SaxaVord Spaceport.
Other criticisms involved the Shetland site, the Western Isles’ Spaceport 1. It encountered opposition from the North Uist Conservation Group. The protesters claimed that they would lose the land to concrete structures. More importantly, they raised concerns about the possible impact of spaceport St Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
If you haven’t found the right gaming headphones, you’re probably not searching in the right places. Better yet, you probably don’t know how to choose one. Your gaming headphones must have excellent quality, comfortable, reliable connectivity, and multiple features. Here are the 10 best gaming headphones of 2024.
1. SteelSeries Arctis Pro
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless offers outstanding high-fidelity sound quality and a premium build. It provides the ability to connect to a console and mobile device simultaneously. The headset features an excellent microphone that filters noise and a comfortable design. Despite low wireless latency, it has limited noise isolation. The unique battery charging system enhances gaming sessions. Drawback: no dedicated microphone volume button.
2. HyperX Cloud II
This headset features low latency and balanced audio quality, including virtual surround sound. Its noise-filtering microphone is clear, and the comfortable ear cups allow for extended gaming sessions. However, the lack of software customization and breathability can lead to warm ears. Pros include good sound and comfort, but cons involve poor noise isolation and potential sound sharpness.
3. Razer BlackShark V2
Deemed as one of the top gaming headsets, the Razer BlackShark V2 provides excellent sound isolation, comfort, and high-quality sound. It delivers more accurate audio than most gaming headsets and can be worn for hours without overheating. Its downsides include an average microphone and cumbersome Synapse software.
4. Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE
Looking for a premium gaming headset? The Corsair Virtuoso Wireless SE is a premium gaming headset offering excellent wireless connectivity, superb sound, and customizable RGB lighting. It features a high-quality microphone, long battery life, and a sturdy build. While it delivers a compelling package, its higher price, and potential heat build-up during long sessions may be drawbacks.
5. Logitech G Pro X
The Logitech G Pro X gaming headset offers professional-grade sound and Blue Voice microphone technology for clear communication. While it excels on PC with its comfortable design and extensive sound customization, its reliance on software hampers performance on consoles. The headset features multiple wired connectivity options, but the microphone may underemphasize bass.
6. Beyerdynamic MMX 150
Nothing beats this headset’s superior audio quality and comfortable design, making it an excellent choice for audiophile gamers. It features many replaceable parts and strong fundamentals, although it is best used with a wired USB connection. Despite its solid construction, the headset may be expensive, given its features and limited button functionality with a 3.5mm adapter.
7. EPOS H6PRO
The Epos H6Pro is a versatile mid-range gaming headset with exceptional audio quality and an ergonomic design. It offers a clear, punchy sound and a crystal-clear microphone. Compatibility with all systems makes it convenient, and users can choose between open or closed-back variants. The open version leaks audio, and the mic splitter can be inconvenient.
8. Astro A50
The fourth generation of the Astro A50 is a premium wireless gaming headset that offers an immersive experience with Dolby Audio. The headset features a low-latency wireless base station and a comfortable design for long gaming sessions. Its boom mic provides excellent recording quality and effective noise isolation. Onboard controls allow for volume adjustments and other settings, though occasional issues exist with the companion software. The headset’s open soundstage is a strength, but its noise isolation is lacking.
9. Audeze Mobius
The Audeze Mobius is known for its planar magnetic drivers and 3D audio technology, offering a distinctive listening experience. While it comes at a higher price, its exceptional audio quality and multiple connectivity options make it a top choice for gaming enthusiasts. The headset supports 7.1, stereo, and Bluetooth modes, and the 3D audio works well. However, the price may be a drawback, and the memory foam takes time to adapt for comfort.
10. Sennheiser GSP 670
Buying this headset offers superb sound quality, comfort, and a dependable wireless connection, all in one package. Despite its high price, it delivers top-notch audio and a good microphone. The headset is ideal for gamers seeking a premium wireless experience and remote workers needing an all-day option. However, the connection range can be inconsistent.
For more tech and gaming recs, check out more here at Owner’s Mag!
Getting a reliable robot vacuum means you can lay around on your couch while the cleaner does the heavy lifting! Our team searched high and low for the best robot vacuum, and we can say we enjoyed testing them! Here are our top 10 picks for the robot vacuums of 2024.
1. iRobot Roomba j7+
The Roomba j7+ is the best robot vacuum overall. It features self-emptying capabilities, intelligent navigation, and an easy-to-use app. Despite being loud and having average battery life, it recognizes up to 80 household objects, ensuring your home gets cleaned while avoiding cords and shoes. PrecisionVision Navigation and the P.O.O.P. guarantee add to its appeal.
Price:
- $642.80 on Amazon
2. iRobot Roomba s9+
We all agree that this is the best robot vacuum for pet hair. It features a D-shaped design for corner cleaning, exceptional suction power, and an auto-empty base. Though expensive and with average battery life, it offers 40 times power-lifting suction, 30% wider dual multi-surface rubber brushes, and Dirt Detect technology for tackling excessive pet hair and dirt.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
3. Eufy S1 Pro
If you’re looking for a robot vacuum with powerful suction, look no further. The Eufy S1 Pro boasts an 8,000PA suction and self-washing mop head for unparalleled cleaning efficiency. Intelligent mapping ensures precision, while speed and effectiveness set it apart. Despite being expensive and loud, its cutting-edge self-cleaning technology and power make it a top-tier choice.
Price:
- $999 on Kickstarter
4. Shark ION AV751
If you need a robot vacuum on a tight budget, the Shark ION AV751 is for you. This robot vacuum offers excellent suction power and a 120-minute run time. Its tri-brush system and stair/cliff edge detection make it efficient. Alexa and Google Assistant integration adds convenience, making it a manageable option for those seeking simplicity.
Price:
- $319.99 on Amazon
5. Neato Botvac D8
The Neato D8, known for its D-shaped design, excels in corner cleaning and advanced mapping. Ideal for smaller homes, it offers 100-minute battery life and a lidar for space mapping. The app supports no-go zones and scheduling, though it can’t map multiple floors and may climb low furniture and ledges.
Price:
- $699.99 on Amazon
6. Bobsweep PetHair Vision
Designed for pet owners, this vacuum excels at pet hair removal and offers smart navigation and mopping capabilities. Its quiet operation and three-inch height allow easy cleaning under furniture. With longer battery life, it efficiently covers large areas. The drawback? Its cleaning schedule may reset unexpectedly, and customer service follow-through can be slow.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
7. Dreame X30 Ultra
This best 2-in-1 vacuum and mop offers quiet, self-emptying, dual oscillating mop heads and MopExtend mop pads. Although it has an app that’s not very user-friendly and is expensive with recurring costs, it provides comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces. Its multi-functional base station and 8300PA suction power ensure efficient home maintenance.
Price:
- $1,399.99 on Amazon
8. Samsung Jet Bot AI+
If you don’t mind the bulky size, the Samsung Jet Bot AI+ is a good robot vacuum option. Its self-cleaning base adds convenience. This robot vacuum has an attractive design and advanced AI for obstacle avoidance.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
9. Dyson 360 Heurist
The Dyson 360 Heurist offers exceptional cleaning power with solid suction and intelligent mapping. This premium robot vacuum reaches edges effectively, thanks to its motorized brush. Though slow to set up, its precise map fine-tuning and methodical cleaning make it a top choice.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
10. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Nothing is more self-sufficient than this all-in-one robot vacuum. It’s self-cleaning, self-emptying, self-washing, self-drying, and self-refilling! Plus, it uses VibraRise mopping and customizable cleaning routines.
Price:
$949.99 on Amazon
Mental health chatbots have become reliable companions for those who can’t afford therapy. However, these chatbots aren’t a real replacement for actual therapists. They can provide temporary comfort and aid mental health professionals in tracking patients’ moods and other necessary information to provide quality care. But with AI being more accessible and free, especially to teens, will more people depend on AI chatbots in the future?
The Latest in AI Chatbot & Mental Health
Mental health chatbots are on the rise. Wysa and Woebot are two well-known examples. But, one AI chatbot is much more popular than the others: the Psychologist bot on Character.ai. According to the BBC, Character.ai helps millions of users talk to the bot and other mental health-related ones to address any concerns.
Character.ai allows users to create bots to help others talk to their favorite characters or “individuals.” So far, the Psychologist and other mental health-adjacent bots have received millions of messages from multiple users. Character.ai users have shared their reviews on the social media forum Reddit about their experiences with the bot. So far, the bot has received nothing but amazing reviews.
For instance, one user messaged Psychologist to help with relationship issues and to communicate with their partner.
There’s one person to thank for this: Blazeman98. He hoped to help others because he wanted someone to talk to when his friends weren’t available. But this isn’t the only AI chatbot internet users can approach for their mental health concerns.
Other Mental Health Chatbots
Woebot is one well-known mental health chatbot. The team behind the chatbot uses cognitive behavioral techniques to help users talk about their feelings, and the chatbot will respond with compassion. Plus, it can give simple solutions to get you through the moment. It covers multiple mental health issues like needs, feeling capable, relationships, coping, and more. The chatbot helps adults, adolescents, and mothers. You can download Woebot in the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorders, and other mental health concerns, you can download Youper. This chatbot helps you track your moods every day. Plus, you can chat with the bot anytime you need help.
Wysa is another option to consider if you want an alternative to Character.ai. However, Wysa is ideal for businesses prioritizing mental health in the workplace. The chatbot helps the patient talk about what’s worrying them. Plus, it checks in with the patient and suggests exercises to improve their well-being. However, Wysa can connect patients to professionals.
Addressing Loneliness
Since AI chatbots don’t have any certification or accreditation to give advice or provide counseling, AI chatbots are excellent companions for lonely people. Meta-Gallup reports that a quarter of the global population feels lonely. With the rise of AI, more people can rely on AI to talk to them and provide companionship that others can’t offer, whether in real life or on the internet.
However, Business Insider writer Daniel Cox believes that more people will be lonely as they talk to AI often. It’s all because of the lack of human connection. Gen Z, in particular, will feel this loneliness even more so. Since they grew up with technology, talking to chatbots is a pathway for them when they need someone to talk to when they don’t have anyone else or because of the potential harm social media brings to users.
How Safe is it to Use AI Chatbots?
Although you can talk to an AI chatbot with the touch of a button, it could be risky to depend on an AI chatbot for mental health-related issues or companionship.
One issue that arises when talking to AI chatbots is your privacy. One recent example of a data leak comes from Microsoft when an employee unknowingly leaked 38TB (that’s right, terabytes) of data. That’s a possibility, especially if data isn’t stored properly. Or, in the employee’s case, they posted the wrong URL.
Another issue that comes up is bias and discrimination. For instance, one chatbot was taken down for the language it used while conversing with users on Twitter. Due to the unfortunate incident, it was forced to shut down because of an uncoordinated attack.
The chatbots mentioned above ensure safety and security through data encryption. Plus, they use language that won’t trigger or encourage users to harm themselves or someone else. Additionally, chatbots avoid giving diagnoses and aren’t discriminatory or biased. Moreover, some AI chatbots are HIPAA-compliant, ensuring they follow regulatory health standards. Finally, the chatbots won’t sell your data to third-party or advertising companies.
Final Thoughts
AI chatbots can be a companion when you’re lonely or need to discuss mental health conditions or symptoms. However, they are not a full replacement for a human therapist as they can only provide solutions to help you get through the moment, track your moods, and give you insights.
Character.ai provides a free solution to talk to a “Psychologist” bot anytime, but note that you’re not talking to a professional. If that’s bothersome for you, you can use other mental health chatbots to direct you to the help you need. This way, you’ll also have a safe and secure experience while conversing with chatbots built by professionals.
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