The Daily Populous

Friday February 2nd, 2018 morning edition

image for Akatsuki’s Amazing Views of Venus

Almost everyone considered Japan's Venus-bound orbiter a lost cause, but Akatsuki survived, reached its objective, and is wowing scientists with results.

Its engine blew up seven years ago, and by all rights the Japanese spacecraft Akatsuki shouldn't have survived.

Scientists from the European Space Agency's Venus Express spacecraft, which circled the planet from 2006 to 2015, were amazed by newly released Akatsuki images and pronounced them "fabulous."

Akatsuki was supposed to reach Venus and enter orbit on December 6, 2010, using an innovative ceramic thruster.

The spacecraft autonomously shut down its broken engine only partway through the intended orbit insertion burn, and it sailed right past Venus.

Akatsuki has been at Venus since December 9, 2015, and in its final science orbit since April 4, 2016.

Even more Akatsuki observations are readily available to the public, waiting to be explored and enjoyed. »

Maryland Senate votes to end parental rights of rapists

Authored by newschannel9.com

(AP) — The Maryland Senate voted unanimously Tuesday to end parental rights of rapists over children conceived through rape.

The 45-0 vote sends the bill to the House, where an identical measure has advanced for a vote later this week.

About 45 states and the District of Columbia limit parental rights of rapists, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. »

Woman who died in December was planned witness in Flint water crisis cases

Authored by mlive.com

FLINT, MI -- Prosecutors will have to prove criminal cases against current and former state employees charged with Flint water crisis crimes without a planned witness -- a city resident they say died last month because of exposure to Legionella bacteria.

Four who took Flint water plea deals in line to testify in latest prosecutions.

Water consultant says former Flint EM wouldn't pay to fully soften river water. »

Philadelphians Wear More Sweatpants Than Anybody, Says Study

Authored by newsfeed.time.com

As Jerry Seinfeld might say, Philadelphia is telling the world, “I give up.”.

The City of Brotherly Love is known for many things—the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, cheese steaks—but a new report suggests that also leads the nation in casual outerwear.

He also suggested that perhaps Philadelphia residents are “more physically active” or “have more activities” that make sweats appropriate. »