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Daily Upsider - Tuesday, January 28th, 2025
Tuesday, January 28th, 2025
Good morning! đ
Why don't eggs tell jokes? âBecause they might crack up! đĽđ
Now that we're in the mood for some fun, let's dive into todayâs exciting updates!
Todayâs Upside
Innovati0n
Artificial Photosynthesis
iStock-An illustration of Chinese Tiangong Space Station.
For the first time, Chinese astronauts have successfully demonstrated artificial photosynthesis technology in space, marking a major advancement in sustainable space exploration. Using semiconductor catalysts, the Shenzhou-19 crew aboard the Tiangong space station converted carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and ethyleneâa hydrocarbon with potential use as rocket fuel. This breakthrough addresses one of the critical challenges of long-term space missions: the need for a practical and cost-effective method to produce essential resources on-site.
The experiments utilized a compact, modular device capable of operating under normal temperature and pressure, a significant improvement over traditional methods requiring extreme conditions. Developed as part of Chinaâs ongoing research into extraterrestrial artificial photosynthesis since 2015, the system is designed for in-orbit upgrades, enabling astronauts to test various catalysts and reactions. Beyond oxygen and ethylene, the technology can produce other vital substances such as methane and formic acid, which are crucial for sustaining life and fueling spacecraft during extended missions. Its reliance on external energy input, such as solar power, makes it particularly suited for space environments.
This achievement aligns with China's ambitious space exploration goals, including a crewed lunar landing by 2030 and the establishment of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) with Russiaâs Roscosmos between 2028 and 2035. As breathable air and reliable life support systems are paramount for missions to the Moon and beyond, artificial photosynthesis offers a promising solution to sustain human presence in space. The breakthrough highlights China's growing leadership in space innovation and its commitment to advancing sustainable technologies for the future of exploration.
World News
Mystery Inheritance
Saint Taurinâs church in Thiberville â credit: havangl, public domain
Roger Thiberville, a wealthy Parisian meteorologist and heir to a wine business fortune, has left a âŹ10 million inheritance to a small Normandy town that shares his name, despite never having visited it. The town of Thiberville, home to just 1,800 residents and known primarily for its 19th-century chateau, now faces an unexpected windfall described by longtime mayor Guy Paris as âbeyond imagination.â
The newfound wealth will first be used to clear a âŹ400,000 municipal debt, with additional funds earmarked for community projects. Plans include building a bowling green, a synthetic soccer pitch, and a solar-shaded park, as well as improving recreation facilities for the local primary school. Mayor Paris assured residents that the money would be managed prudently, emphasizing, âWe wonât spend it all. Weâre going to manage this dowry responsibly, as we always have with our municipal budget.â
Born in Mantes-la-Jolie, Thiberville inherited his familyâs fortune after the death of his sister, who left no heirs. He passed away without heirs himself, requesting only a plaque and his ashes to be placed in the townâs cemetery. This extraordinary bequest provides the town with a rare opportunity to enhance its community infrastructure while honoring the memory of a benefactor whose generosity will leave a lasting legacy.
Good News
Riding Through Fire
As wildfires tore through Los Angeles County, devastating thousands of homes, acts of bravery emerged, showcasing extraordinary resilience. Among the heroes was 16-year-old equestrian Kalyna Fedorowycz, who faced an unimaginable challenge in the canyon systems north of the city.
As fires rapidly advanced, Fedorowycz and her team worked to evacuate horses from the stables. One horse, a nervous black mare, refused to board the trailer, and with flames closing in, Fedorowycz refused to leave her behind. Determined to save the animal, she led it on foot for 14 miles along the evacuation route, alternating between riding, walking, and jogging to keep the frightened mare moving through the perilous conditions.
Captured on video by her father, Fedorowyczâs journey, navigating fallen trees, burning debris, and heavy smoke, went viral on TikTok, drawing praise from viewers for her courage and deep connection with the horse. Comments flooded in, with one commenter writing, âMad respect for you â¤ď¸,â while another remarked, âThe bond you have with that beautiful animal is palpable.â
@kkf_eq I thought I would post some of the videos my dad took as he drove behind me. I canât thank everybody enough for all of the love and suppor... See more
Top Tech Predictions for 2025
As we move deeper into the digital age, technology continues to shape the way we live, work, and connect. Here are some key tech trends expected to dominate 2025:
Generative AI Everywhere
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney are set to become even more integral, powering industries from education to marketing with smarter, more personalized solutions.Mainstream Adoption of AR/VR
Augmented and virtual reality will move beyond gaming, transforming industries like retail, healthcare, and real estate with immersive experiences.The Rise of Quantum Computing
While still in its infancy, quantum computing will start solving problems traditional computers can't handle, from complex logistics to advanced drug discovery.Smart Homes Get Smarter
AI-driven home devices will offer hyper-personalized automation, making life easier and more energy-efficient.Green Tech Revolution
Sustainable technologies, like AI-optimized energy grids and carbon capture innovations, will play a pivotal role in combating climate change.Web3 and Decentralization
Blockchain will expand beyond cryptocurrency, powering decentralized apps (dApps) and revolutionizing industries like finance and supply chain management.5Gâs Full Potential
With global 5G adoption nearing completion, faster internet speeds will unlock new innovations in IoT, remote work, and entertainment.
2025 is shaping up to be a year of major technological leaps. Which trend are you most excited about?
Mind Stretchers
âď¸
Iâm round but not a ball,
I crack under pressure, yet stand tall.
From breakfast to baking, I play my part,
What am I, thatâs used from the start?
Yesterdayâs Mind Stretchers:
I open whatâs closed, but never seen, I travel in pairs, yet canât intervene. Small in size, with a purpose vast, Iâm never alone, but built to last. What am I? âkeys! ,
Be the first to send us the correct answer for todayâs mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected]
From the Community
If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.
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