The Morning After: NASA’s Artemis II is on a voyage around the Moon
NASA’s Artemis II successfully launched on April 1 , with its crew on a 10-day mission to circle the Moon. It’s the first crewed Artemis flight and a major step toward humanity returning to our little neighbor in the future. Since launch, the vehicle has separated from its launch system and been manually piloted, testing how the Orion capsule will dock with future lunar landers. There have been some snags, however: The onboard toilet went awry, and Microsoft Outlook has been acting screwy . Jokes aside, there is something magnificent about seeing humanity taking to the stars once again. That, for all of our worst instincts, we can still come together to solve problems and explore beyond our own horizons. — Dan Cooper The other big stories (and deals) this morning SpaceX has reportedly filed for the biggest IPO in history Could be as much as $75 billion. The hottest EVs from the 2026 New York Auto Show (plus one brawny concept) Corvette CX? Take my money now, please. Apple’s controversial Fitness VP Jay Blahnik is retiring Controversial is one way of saying it. What’s going on with Donut Lab's so-called super battery? The company is long on promises, short on evidence. Donut Lab At CES 2026, a Finnish–Estonian startup claimed to have invented a world-changing solid state battery. Rather than explain how it did so, it engaged in a lengthy campaign teasing out data that didn’t quite support its explosive claims. We’ve dived deep to separate truth from hype
NASA’s Artemis II successfully launched on April 1, marking a historic moment in space exploration. The crewed mission, set to last 10 days, will circle the Moon, serving as the first step toward humanity’s return to the lunar surface in the future. This mission is a testament to the enduring human spirit and our ability to overcome challenges and push boundaries.
Since its launch, Artemis II has successfully separated from its launch system and entered a phase of manual piloting. This critical stage allows engineers to test the Orion capsule’s ability to dock with future lunar landers, ensuring the success of more ambitious missions. The crew’s journey around the Moon is a significant milestone, as it brings us one step closer to establishing a sustainable presence on the lunar surface.
However, the mission has not been without its hiccups. The onboard toilet experienced technical issues, and there were reports of Microsoft Outlook malfunctioning. While these setbacks are undoubtedly frustrating, they serve as reminders that even the most advanced technology can face unexpected challenges. Nonetheless, the crew and mission control have worked diligently to address these issues, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability required for space exploration.
As Artemis II continues its journey, the world watches with awe and anticipation. The mission underscores the power of collaboration and innovation, showcasing how humanity can come together to achieve remarkable feats. Despite our many disagreements and conflicts, we have the capacity to look beyond our differences and explore the cosmos as a unified front.
In addition to the Artemis II mission, there are other noteworthy developments unfolding in the world of technology and business. SpaceX has reportedly filed for the largest IPO in history, potentially reaching a staggering $75 billion. This move highlights the company’s continued growth and influence in the aerospace industry, further cementing its role as a pioneer in space exploration and beyond.
Meanwhile, the 2026 New York Auto Show has unveiled some of the hottest electric vehicles (EVs) on the market, including the Corvette CX concept. This sleek, high-performance vehicle has captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation. As EVs continue to gain popularity, they represent a significant shift in the global automotive landscape, driven by a growing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
In other news, Apple’s Fitness VP, Jay Blahnik, has announced his retirement. Known for his controversial tenure, Blahnik’s departure has sparked discussions about the future direction of Apple’s health and fitness initiatives. With the company’s commitment to innovation and leadership in the tech sector, his departure will undoubtedly prompt a reevaluation of its strategies in this space.
Furthermore, the enigmatic Finnish-Estonian startup Donut Lab has been making waves with its claims of inventing a groundbreaking solid-state battery. At CES 2026, the company teased its revolutionary technology, promising a world-changing advancement in energy storage. However, upon closer examination, it appears that Donut Lab’s claims may be more hype than substance. Our investigation into the company’s data and technology has revealed limited evidence to support its explosive promises, raising questions about the credibility of its claims.
In the realm of music production, Roland’s new Go:Mixer Studio has received positive reviews for its portability, professional features, and polished design. Priced at $300, the mixer offers a second XLR port, MIDI connectivity, and visible VU meters, justifying its premium cost. As portable mixers become increasingly popular, Roland’s Go:Mixer Studio stands out as a top-tier option for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
As we reflect on these developments, it is clear that the world is brimming with innovation and potential. From space exploration to technology and beyond, humanity continues to push the boundaries of what is possible. The success of missions like Artemis II, coupled with the challenges and triumphs of other groundbreaking projects, serves as a powerful reminder of our collective capacity to achieve greatness.
