SUMMARY: James Lovell, NASA astronaut and Apollo 13 commander, died at 97 in Lake Forest, Illinois. Lovell flew four missions, including Gemini 7, Gemini 12, Apollo 8, and Apollo 13. Apollo 8 was the first mission to orbit the moon, delivering iconic Earth photography and comforting a tumultuous 1968 America. Apollo 13’s oxygen tank explosion transformed the mission into a harrowing survival story, showcasing NASA’s crisis management and Lovell’s calm leadership. Though never walking on the moon, Lovell’s role cemented his legacy. Portrayed by Tom Hanks in the film “Apollo 13,” he remained a symbol of courage, ingenuity, and perseverance in space exploration.

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SUMMARY: Cesium Astro, a Texas-based telecommunications equipment company, is building “the most advanced satellite spacecraft factory” in western Travis County, backed by a $10 million state grant promoted by Governor Greg Abbott. The new factory will produce Element, a next-generation telecommunications satellite designed to provide secure, high-speed internet to remote areas, airborne platforms, and military operations. The Texas Space Commission (TSC), established in 2023, oversees $300 million in grants for space industry growth. Cesium Astro’s expansion exemplifies Texas’s push to become a major player in the space economy, projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2035, with Element’s launch planned for summer 2026.

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SUMMARY: In response to the deadly July 4 flooding in Kerr County, Texas, lawmakers are considering new legislation to improve flood preparedness and response. Senate Bill 2 would require outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas, supported by a grant program, addressing concerns that mobile alerts are often missed. Senate Bill 1 would subject the Upper Guadalupe River Authority (UGRA) to a Sunset review in 2027, scrutinizing its role and governance after criticism of its inadequate flood warning and monitoring systems. Additional proposals include mandatory emergency evacuation plans for camps, emergency management coordinator training, a volunteer credential system, and a mass fatality data management system. Camps would also face fines if they fail to submit annual flood disaster plans.

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