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This week: Wooden satellites

This week: Wooden satellites

plus AI in the Military, workloads, AFib

Brett Bouchard
November 09, 2024

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans!

Wooden satellites would mean less metal space debris falling to earth - smart!

1. First Wooden Satellite Launched into Space

What’s the tech?
The world’s first wooden satellite, called WISA Woodsat, was launched into space on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Made mostly of birch plywood, this small, cube-shaped satellite (called a CubeSat) will test how wood holds up in space.

How is it used?
WISA Woodsat orbits Earth at an altitude of about 550 kilometers (about 340 miles), carrying sensors and a small camera arm (or "selfie stick") to monitor its condition in space’s tough environment. Its mission will last about six months, collecting data on how wood reacts to conditions like extreme cold, heat, and radiation.

Why it’s news now
This experiment may open the door for using eco-friendly materials in satellites, which could lead to less waste and debris in space. If successful, wood could be an innovative and sustainable material choice for future space technology!

2. Meta Opens Its AI to the U.S. Military

What’s the tech?
Meta (the parent company of Facebook) is allowing the U.S. military and some government contractors to use its artificial intelligence models, called Llama, for national security purposes. Previously, Meta didn’t allow its AI (artificial intelligence) to be used for military purposes.

How it’s used
This policy shift means that federal agencies and defense contractors, including companies like Lockheed Martin, will have access to Llama to support national security efforts. Meta will also share the technology with intelligence allies in Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Why it’s news now
With global competition in AI technology heating up, Meta is taking this step to stay competitive and support U.S. values. However, the decision is likely to spark debate about the ethics of using AI in military operations.

3. Knowledge Workers Use AI to Manage High Workloads

What’s the tech?
More professionals in fields like law, finance, and marketing—often called “knowledge workers”—are using generative AI tools (software that can create text, images, or data analysis) to help with their work. These tools can draft emails, write reports, analyze data, and even generate creative ideas.

How it’s used
By using AI, workers can automate routine tasks, giving them more time to focus on important, higher-value work. AI is also being used to boost productivity and streamline business processes across industries.

Why it’s news now
As workloads increase, companies are investing in AI to improve efficiency. While some worry that AI could replace jobs, many see it as a way to increase productivity and allow people to work smarter.

Bonus Topic: Could the Apple Watch Help AFib Patients Reduce Blood Thinners?

What’s the tech?
Researchers are testing whether the Apple Watch could help people with atrial fibrillation (AFib—a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat) reduce their need for blood thinners (medications that prevent blood clots).

How it’s used
Participants in the study wear an Apple Watch that monitors their heart rhythms using an ECG (electrocardiogram) feature. This data is sent to their doctors, who can make more personalized treatment decisions based on continuous heart monitoring.

Why it’s news now
If successful, this study could allow people with AFib to rely less on blood thinners, which often require regular blood tests and can carry risks with long-term use. This trial shows how wearable technology like smartwatches could play a big role in future healthcare.

Conversation starter: “Did you know some doctors are now using the Apple Watch to help with heart conditions? It’s amazing what these devices can do now!”