The Daily Factum
Deprogramming the News
Breaking News
CDC Warns of Summer Surge in COVID-19 Cases: Stay Informed and Follow Guidelines to Reduce Transmission Risk
Broke On: Wednesday, 24 July 2024Amidst a summer surge of COVID-19 cases in the US, nearly half of states report high or very high levels of COVID activity according to CDC data. New variants with increased transmissibility are contributing to this rise. Older people and immuno-compromised individuals are at higher risk during this wave. To minimize transmission, isolate after testing positive or experiencing symptoms, wear masks, open windows, and use HEPA air filtration units for additional safety measures. 
New Study Suggests Shingrix Vaccine May Delay Dementia Onset: Why Older Adults Should Get Vaccinated Against Shingles
Broke On: Thursday, 25 July 2024New research suggests that getting the Shingrix vaccine not only protects older adults against shingles but may also delay the onset of dementia, particularly for women. The CDC recommends vaccination for those aged 50 and above to prevent shingles and its complications. Maintaining a healthy immune system through good nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding air pollution from wildfires can further help prevent both shingles and dementia. 
Spectacular Double Meteor Shower: Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids Peak Next Week
Broke On: Sunday, 30 July 2023Experience a double meteor shower peak next week, featuring the Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids. The Southern Delta Aquariids, known for fast-moving meteors from comet 96P/Machholz, and Alpha Capricornids with brighter fireballs will light up the night sky. Best viewing conditions are in the Southern Hemisphere on July 31. SpaceX's Falcon 9 Rocket Failure: Cracked Sense Line Causes Ten Starlink Satellites to Re-enter Earth's Atmosphere
Broke On: Thursday, 11 July 2024During the second stage engine burn of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying twenty Starlink satellites on July 11, 2024, a crack in a sense line for a pressure sensor caused an oxygen leak and excessive cooling, leading to engine damage and loss of ten satellites. The FAA investigation identified fatigue from engine vibration and clamp looseness as the cause. SpaceX has taken immediate action by removing the faulty components and implementing preventative measures. 
Newly Discovered Mars Rock, 'Cheyava Falls', Shows Signs of Ancient Water and Potential Microbial Life
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024NASA's Perseverance rover discovered a potential biosignature on Mars in July 2024: a rock named Cheyava Falls with large white veins of calcium sulfate and leopard spot-like features containing iron and phosphate, indicative of water and possible signs of ancient microbial life. Scientists are analyzing the rock's organic matter and chemical reactions using Perseverance's instruments. 
Boeing's Starliner Spacecraft: Astronauts Williams and Wilmore's Extended Stay at ISS Due to Thruster Failures and Helium Leaks
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, carrying NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Barry Wilmore, encountered thruster failures and helium leaks during its return to Earth from the ISS, delaying their homecoming indefinitely. Engineers are investigating the root cause of these issues while the astronauts continue their work on board. NASA is considering a backup plan using SpaceX's Dragon capsule for their return. New England Patriots Extend Jabrill Peppers' Contract for Three Years, Valued at Up to $30 Million
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers agreed to a three-year extension worth up to $30 million. The versatile player had a standout season with 78 tackles, two interceptions, and eight passes defended in 2022. Peppers' extension is the latest move by the Patriots prioritizing re-signing their own players. /cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/tbt/VVPJKAVP5ZAKNMFV22MSEMFMSA.jpg)
Seattle Mariners Acquire Randy Arozarena from Tampa Bay Rays: Blockbuster Trade Brings Exciting Prospects and Offensive Boost
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024The Seattle Mariners have traded for AL Rookie of the Year and All-Star outfielder Randy Arozarena from the Tampa Bay Rays, acquiring him in exchange for prospects Aidan Smith, Brody Hopkins, and a player to be named later. The Mariners hope that Arozarena's impressive stats and offensive prowess will help boost their struggling lineup. 
Canada's Olympic Soccer Team Caught Spying on Opponents with Drones: Coach Bev Priestman Suspended and FIFA Investigation Launched
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024Canada's Olympic women's soccer team faces scandal over drone spying on opponents, leading to the removal of coach Bev Priestman and a FIFA investigation. 
Billy Joel Breaks Records with Final Show at Madison Square Garden: A Decade-Long Run Ends
Broke On: Friday, 26 July 2024Billy Joel broke records with his final performance at Madison Square Garden after a decade-long residency, selling out the Manhattan arena over 150 times and grossing $260 million. The New York Times reports on Joel's record-setting shows, featuring hits and new music, and notes his permanent recognition at MSG.
