A Japanese space startup has successfully tested its new rocket that uses cow dung as a fuel source, marking it a step toward its goal of creating affordable rockets that also help mitigate climate change. How it works: Developed by Interstellar Technologies Inc. and tested at Hokkaido Spaceport’s Launch Complex-0 in Taiki, Hokkaido, Japan, the small satellite launch vehicle called Zero was powered by liquid biomethane (LBM) fuel produced from livestock manures, with liquid oxygen serving as its oxidizer. In a press release on Dec. 7, Interstellar Technologies explained that the LBM is produced by separating and refining methane, which is the primary component of biogas, “and subsequently liquefying it at approximately -160 degrees Celsius (-256 Fahrenheit).”
The Northern High School Student Government Association donated $2,000 from its annual 5K Siren Sprint to first responders at its year-end annual banquet May 18.