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Beaming solar energy from space, new auto safety tech, and environmental resistance to new AI data centers [11-04-2024]

British Startup Aims to Supply Solar Power from Space to Iceland by 2030

A British startup plans to supply solar power from space to Icelanders by 2030. The project aims to launch a demonstrator satellite by 2030, which will beam 30 megawatts of clean energy to Earth, with the intent to build a fleet of six such space-based solar power stations by 2036. This initiative marks a significant step in advancing space-based solar power technology, leveraging the potential of space infrastructure to deliver clean energy to Earth.

Source: https://www.space.com/iceland-space-based-solar-power


Volkswagen Unveils Emergency Assist Technology for Enhanced Driver Safety

Volkswagen has demonstrated its new Emergency Assist technology, designed to address driver safety by automatically taking control of the vehicle if the driver passes out or has an incapacitating medical emergency. The system detects a lack of input from the driver and can initiate various measures to ensure the safety of the occupants and other road users. The technology has garnered positive reactions online, with many expressing the need for such features in modern vehicles.

Source: https://supercarblondie.com/volkswagen-emergency-assist-technology/


Environmental Concerns Rise as Data Centre Expansion Sparks Global Protests

Environmental campaigners are opposing the expansion of data centers in Northern Virginia, the world's largest concentration of such facilities. The region's data center industry is rapidly growing due to the increasing demand for computing power driven by artificial intelligence. Campaigners are concerned about the negative impact on the environment, including increased electricity demand, water usage, and air pollution from backup generators. Similar protests against data centres are emerging globally. These events highlight the growing tension between the rapid expansion of data centers and the environmental concerns they raise, urging for a more sustainable approach to their development.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz0mlrx0jxno


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