SUMMARY: Phillip Franke at UT Austin’s TAU Systems explains laser physics as his team builds laser-plasma accelerators to strip electrons from atoms, simulating cosmic ray effects on electronics for space testing. Their technique uses ultra-short laser pulses that, after being manipulated, strike gas to create electron waves impacting electronics. This testing is crucial for developing advanced technologies for deep space, where current electronic systems are outdated. TAU received a DARPA contract to aid in testing electronics’ resilience against space conditions. Additionally, the Texas Space Commission is funding several aerospace companies to enhance the state’s space industry.

Read the full article

The post Laser lab stashed beneath the University of Texas could power future space travel appeared first on www.kxan.com

SUMMARY: Brad Simpson, accused of murdering his wife, local real estate agent Suzanne Simpson, made his first court appearance in two months at the 437th district court. The brief five-minute hearing addressed a motion by Simpson’s attorneys to quash the indictment, citing vagueness. However, the case could not proceed as prosecutors still need to review approximately six terabytes of evidence and complete forensic testing. The hearing was rescheduled for another 30 days. Supporters of Suzanne Simpson gathered outside the courtroom, as Brad Simpson remains in custody facing murder and other charges.

The next hearing for Brad Simpson, the Olmos Park man charged with murdering his wife last year, will be in 30 days, a judge said Wednesday. The case against Simpson, 54, was handled before Judge Joel Perez in the 437th District Court.

Source

Storms are leaving the metroplex as freezing temps make their way in. Meteorologist Evan Andrews has your forecast.

Source