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Blue Origin is preparing to put on a display of fire and fury out at Launch Complex 36. The company is gearing up for a crucial hot fire test of its New Glenn rocket, which is one of the big, final steps needed before it can launch. It comes as the Federal Aviation Administration granted a Part 450 commercial launch license for the rocket, clearing way for it to operate for five years. “The FAA is committed to enabling the success of the U.S. commercial space transportation industry without compromising public safety,” said the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation Kelvin B. Coleman, in a statement. “By working closely with Blue Origin, the FAA issued this new launch license well in advance of the statutory deadline for the historic maiden flight of New Glenn.” “A big thanks to the FAA for the partnership, especially over the holidays,” said Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp in a social media post following the announcement by the FAA. “Here’s to NG-1 — we are really close, folks.” The launch company, owned by billionaire Jeff Bezos, spent much of 2024 getting the final pieces of New Glenn in place so that it can finally shift into launch operations. On Monday Dec. 16, Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp said that teams were given the “all clear” to proceed to a fueling demonstration known as a wet dress rehearsal prior to the hot fire test. Also known as a static fire because the rocket will not intentionally leave the pad, the moment will be the first time that all seven BE-4 engines roar to life together as part of a fully integrated New Glenn rocket stack. The company did not advertise when the hot fire test will take place, but it was expected to occur no earlier than Thursday, Dec. 19. Blue Origin seemed to have done some tanking on its rocket, but didn’t state if it was able to complete a wet dress rehearsal. Late Saturday morning, potential signs of fueling preparations were evident at the pad as venting could be seen along the strongback, which supports the rocket. However, the day came and went without a static fire test, which brings the company to Friday, Dec. 27, when it is once again performing another tanking test, potentially with a static fire test at the end. Blue Origin’s first orbital class rocket, New Glenn, is the second launch vehicle developed by the company, following New Shepard, its suborbital rocket used for short tourism flights and research opportunities. New Glenn stands 98 m (~321 ft) tall with about 57.5 m (189 ft) of that coming from the first stage of the two-stage vehicle. The booster, which is designed to land propusively, like a SpaceX Falcon 9 booster, is powered by seven of Blue Origin’s BE-4 engines. Those are manufactured in Kent, Washington, and Huntsville, Alabama. The BE-4 engines are fueled by liquified natural gas (LNG) and liquid oxygen and are each capable of producing 550,000 lbf (2,450 kN) of thrust at sea level, according to Blue Origin. Two of these engines power the first stage of United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket. Another good morning at the Cape. GS2 tanking test is done and nominal across the board. pic.twitter.com/g72FWUBvYx — Dave Limp (@davill) December 10, 2024 On Dec. 12, during the final day of the Space Force Association (SFA) Spacepower Conference, Lars Hoffman, Blue Origin’s Vice President of Government Sales, talked about the benefit of sharing its engines with Vulcan. “The same BE-4s that are going to power New Glenn have been powering Vulcan for its first two launches successfully,” Hoffman said during the panel discussion. “So, we have some flight experience already with our engines, in addition to all the test experience.” When pressed by the moderator for a specific launch date, he said that a launch “this year is about all I can say at this point.” “So, that kind of narrows it down a little bit doesn’t it,” Hoffman said. “Maybe for Christmas. I don’t know.” During a roundtable discussion with reporters the same day, ULA President and CEO Tory Bruno remarked that while both rockets use the same basic engine, the key difference is in how they ignite. “The basic engine is the same. It’s that many more flight data points, so we’ll be studying that carefully for its performance and any margins that are demonstrated and so on,” Bruno said. “We also like to keep track of all of the launch providers and where we each fit and where we’re differentiated. “New Glenn is another [low Earth orbit] operations-optimized rocket, like Falcon, and it’s a pretty large rocket with theoretically some pretty good mass to LEO capability. So, we’ll be interested in that.” The upper stage of New Glenn is powered by a pair of BE-3U engines, which draw from the heritage of New Shepard’s BE-3PM engine. The version flying on New Glenn is “optimized to operate in the vacuum of space,” according to the company. So great to see! Another photo here of #NewGlenn ’s two BE-3U engines right before integration. In the vacuum of space, the BE-3U’s nozzles release hydrogen-rich steam at speeds of roughly 10,000 mph. These vacuum nozzles are a big, 114.5 inches long. https://t.co/FUBven2i51 pic.twitter.com/yPWhTsudsk — Dave Limp (@davill) November 12, 2024 The first launch of New Glenn will not feature a customer payload, but instead will carry the Blue Ring Pathfinder into orbit. Blue Origin said this will also mark the first certification flight to become authorized to fly National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 contract missions, if selected. Blue Ring features “a communications array, power systems, and a flight computer affixed to a secondary payload adapter ring” and is designed to validate both space-to-ground communications as well as “ground-based radiometric tracking that will be used on the future Blue Ring production space vehicle.” “We’re excited to demonstrate Blue Ring’s advanced in-space operations on New Glenn’s inaugural mission,” said Paul Ebertz, Senior Vice President of Blue Origin’s In-Space Systems, in a statement. “Blue Ring plays a critical role in building a road to space, and this mission is an important first step for Blue Ring and enabling dynamic and responsive operations that will greatly benefit our nation.” Blue Origin was originally going to carry the EscaPADE spacecraft from NASA as its payload for the inaugural launch, but because the rocket wasn’t going to be ready for launch in time for the October launch window, NASA decided to shift those plans.
President-elect Donald Trump settled a lawsuit this week with singer Eddy Grant, who alleged Trump and his campaign team violated copyright law when they used his hit song “Electric Avenue” in a video mocking President Joe Biden . The lawsuit , filed in the Southern District of New York in 2020, stemmed from a 55-second low-fidelity animated video posted on one of Trump’s social media accounts that same year, as Trump was campaigning against Biden. The video depicts a red train labeled “Trump Pence KAGA 2020” speeding along railroad tracks, followed by an animated Biden pushing himself along in a handcar, as “Electric Avenue plays.” According to the lawsuit’s complaint, the video was viewed more than 13.7 million times and garnered thousands of likes on the website known then as Twitter. Grant’s lawyers claimed that Trump and his campaign had financially and politically benefitted from the video, which used Grant’s music without permission. In a statement following a cease and desist letter, Grant said, “I call upon such arbiter, as is responsible for this sordid abuse, to come forward like a man and let’s sort this thing out, in the way that America demands when such issues are to be sorted, especially when they are wrong,” CNN reported in 2020. The 1983 hit, which made Grant one of the first Black artists to be played on MTV, is named after Electric Avenue in South London’s Brixton, and it was written after riots against over-policing of Black residents. The Trump campaign previously denied it had infringed on Grant’s copyright, produced the video, or benefitted from the video financially and politically, according to an answer document filed in 2021. The legal fight would continue until Trump, his campaign and Grant reached a settlement outside of court, according to an order filed on Wednesday. The terms of their settlement were not publicly disclosed. Grant’s lead attorney, Brian Caplan, declined to give HuffPost more details on the matter. Other news outlets have retreated behind paywalls. At HuffPost, we believe journalism should be free for everyone. Would you help us provide essential information to our readers during this critical time? We can't do it without you. Can't afford to contribute? Support HuffPost by creating a free account and log in while you read. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give once or many more times, we appreciate your contribution to keeping our journalism free for all. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give just one more time or sign up again to contribute regularly, we appreciate you playing a part in keeping our journalism free for all. Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages. “I am only at liberty to state that the matter was resolved to the mutual satisfaction of the parties,” Caplan said in an email. A attorney for Trump did not respond to HuffPost’s request for comment. Other musical artists have objected to Trump’s use of their music over the years. Jack White, Celine Dione, Beyoncé and others all demanded the now president-elect stop using their songs during the 2024 campaign. Related From Our PartnerLoyalties shift in a solid, literally eye-popping Outlander
SBP issues updated framework for exchange companies A vendor at an exchange company counts dollars in this undated photograph. — AFP/File KARACHI: Pakistan’s central bank on Friday released a revised set of regulations for exchange businesses, describing corporate governance structures, establishing criteria for information technology systems and internal controls, and strengthening the supervisory and enforcement regime. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); “The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has undertaken a comprehensive review of the existing regulatory instructions. Accordingly, a consolidated and updated ‘Regulatory Framework for Exchange Companies (RFEC)’ has been developed,” it said in a circular. The framework will replace the existing Exchange Companies Manual and will become effective from January 01, 2025. In order to ensure full compliance with the framework, the exchange companies (ECs) will formulate and align their policies, procedures and systems by June 30, 2025, it added. According to the framework, the exchange company’s minimum paid-up capital will be one billion rupees. The shortfall must be filled by a capital-deficient company by the following deadlines: Rs600 million by December 31, 2025; Rs800 million by December 31, 2026; and Rs1 billion by December 31, 2027. According to the framework, the chief executive officer of the exchange company is any individual who, under the direction and control of the board, is given full or nearly full authority to manage the exchange company’s affairs. Any person holding a director position on the board of an exchange company is considered a director, as are sponsor directors, nominees and substitute directors, among other titles that SBP will periodically examine. Any business that wants to operate as an exchange company and receive authorisation under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act can do so by contacting the SBP. There would be three steps in the approval process: a) certificate of no objection for the establishment of a company; b) approval in principle for the operationalisation of a firm; and c) the granting of an authorisation to start operations.AP Trending SummaryBrief at 6:30 p.m. ESTNone
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Arsenal find answer to left-back conundrum in brilliant Lewis-Skelly as Saka reveals four-word pep talk before MonacoOrganized crime is no longer a problem restricted to specific countries or regions—it is a transnational threat weakening economies, communities and governments across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). A new study by economists at the Interamerican Development Bank (IDB) estimates that the region loses an estimated 3.4% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to crime every day. The GDP is a key indicator of a country’s economic health. That loss is the equivalent of nearly four-fifths of public education spending or 12 times R & D investment. Almost half of the region’s homicides are tied to organized criminal networks, which exploit weaknesses in institutions, local economies, and illicit markets. Vulnerable populations bear the brunt of its impact, trapped in cycles of violence with fewer chances for a better life. The impact is widespread: 54% of households in LAC report the presence of local criminal groups, and between 20% and 50% of residents identify organized crime as the greatest threat to their safety. The private sector also faces significant costs, including reduced productivity, increased spending on security—estimated at 1.6% of the region’s GDP—lower investment, and business closures. But as we have seen time and again, organized criminal activity doesn’t stay on just one side of the border; it exploits economic and social links, capitalizes on institutional gaps and vulnerable population to reach over borders. That is why what happens in one country matters to the rest of hemisphere and why a transnational response is required. A shared challenge, a joint solution That is where the Regional Alliance for Security, Justice and Development, spearheaded by the IDB comes in. Set to be launched this week at the Regional Security and Justice Summit in Bridgetown, Barbados, it provides a unified response, fostering dialogue and joint action among governments, multilateral organizations, the private sector and civil society. The participation of more than 40 authorities from 18 countries from Latin America and the Caribbean in the launch highlights the strong need for and commitment to this initiative and its goals. The Alliance pioneers a holistic approach to crime, aiming to integrate the efforts of intelligence agencies, police forces, social ministries, and financial regulators. This comprehensive framework is essential for addressing the root causes of organized crime and dismantling its structures across economic, social, and security dimensions. Its strategic priorities, shaped by the collaborative insights and experiences of participating countries, focus on the most urgent needs to address organized crime and its effects: 1. Protecting vulnerable populations: By targeting at-risk communities, the Alliance seeks to prevent the recruitment of youth and marginalized individuals by criminal networks. Initiatives include programs like community violence interrupters and exit strategies from organized crime. 2. Strengthening security and justice institutions: The Alliance supports evidence-based policing strategies, modern investigative tools, and collaborative efforts to bolster accountability and effectiveness. 3. Curbing illicit financial flows: Through financial intelligence, cross-border collaboration, and tighter regulations, the Alliance works to limit the resources that sustain criminal networks. These pillars represent a roadmap for measurable progress, built on shared efforts and action. A regional leadership steering group—comprising Barbados, Argentina, Costa Rica, Chile, Brazil, and Paraguay —ensures efforts are well-coordinated, effective, and relevant for the region. Ecuador will hold the first presidency, signaling a strong commitment to regional leadership. The Alliance draws on the experience, knowledge, lending programs and technical expertise of multiple organizations and multilateral development banks (MDBs), including the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). As the technical secretariat of the Alliance, the IDB plays a key role in planning, coordinating, and mobilizing resources to strengthen institutional capacities, foster regional knowledge-sharing, and ensure the effectiveness of long-term policies through reviews and improvements. Turning commitment into action We know that declarations of intent are insufficient; progress demands tangible results. Close to 20 participating countries are already exchanging best practices and piloting programs to address organized crime. The Alliance represents a unified response to one of the region’s greatest challenges. Every step to curb violence and strengthen institutions brings LAC closer to a safer, more just, and prosperous future of the Americas. — Ilan Goldfajn is president of the Inter-American Development Bank. This was originally published in the Miami Herald.
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A 93-year-old former Catholic priest sentenced to life in prison earlier this month for raping a teenage boy has died, Louisiana authorities and his lawyer confirmed Friday. Less than two weeks after being sentenced to spend the rest of his life behind bars, Lawrence Hecker died of natural causes at 3 a.m. Thursday at the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center, according to Ken Pastorick, Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections communications director. Hecker had pleaded guilty to charges including first-degree rape and aggravated kidnapping shortly before jury selection for his long-delayed trial had been scheduled to begin earlier this month, with other victims prepared to testify against him. The survivor of the assault to which Hecker pleaded guilty had said that Hecker raped him after offering to instruct him in wrestling moves ahead of tryouts for a school team in the mid-1970s. “The only prayer I can come up with I hope he spends eternity in hell after God's judgment of him,” the survivor said in a written statement provided by his attorney, Richard Trahant. “Now after his death I feel vindicated and free,” he said. The Associated Press does not identify those who say they have been sexually assaulted. Hecker's trial had been delayed for months partly because of questions around his mental competency. Hecker had suffered from dementia, his lawyer Bobby Hjortsberg said. Hecker had been ordained as an archdiocesan priest in 1958 and remained in this position even after facing an undisputed complaint of child molestation in the late 1980s, according to court records . Hecker left the ministry in 2002. Hecker's conviction occurred amid a wave of sexual abuse allegations against the Catholic church in New Orleans, many resurfacing from decades ago. The fallout has left the Archdiocese of New Orleans embroiled in bankruptcy negotiations. Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Brook on the social platform X: @jack_brook96 This story has been updated to clarify that Hecker died at the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center. Authorities had previously stated he died at a Baton Rouge hospital.
AP Business SummaryBrief at 10:35 a.m. ESTSigh. If you thought the people working for the federal government were adults, think again. The U.S. State Department held taxpayer-funded “therapy and listening sessions” for government employees after Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. pic.twitter.com/b780zA1emK Donald Trump can't clean house fast enough. First, grow up. Second, What the actual...!?!?Third, @VivekGRamaswamy @elonmusk , @DOGE https://t.co/hTxMbvru1M pic.twitter.com/vYH8EELhsR This. This government needs restructuring. https://t.co/oZT9ClIJ9V God help us these folks r so soft https://t.co/v5Q7ElMINi They are toilet tissue soft. Taxpayer funded 🤬 https://t.co/CNQ8i8AFGi That's the worst part. We are not a serious people. https://t.co/oToJxMyHhJ The therapy should be finding a real job https://t.co/nd0lA15HhD Hopefully, after January 20th, they will. People this soft shouldn't be working with state dept. https://t.co/A2xMLjffmA If you need a safe space, you shouldn't work for the state department. you have GOT to be kidding on this..?? https://t.co/ckd8myQCQU Coddling adults. Waste of money. Go listen to a taxpayer of you want to help with grief counseling. https://t.co/4kcAlZsGIX Listen to taxpayers who can't buy groceries. Those are the real sad stories. An easy way to start improving the state of this government would be to fire anyone that took part in these sessions. https://t.co/2xhlRCOoJV A great start. Anybody that attended should be fired! https://t.co/vS5x9CdG5Z Govt employees “needing therapy” because their person wasn’t elected is alarming. Any person that lacks a certain level of social awareness and mental fortitude shouldn’t be allowed to hold office. https://t.co/eUyAgnwQbJ They need a wake up call. The whole Government might need to be razed and rebuilt from the ashes. Holy crap. Elon and Vivek have their work cut out for them. https://t.co/aglxEUid8I Every single person who attended needs to be fired. You can not serve the USG in a diplomatic capacity when you need THERAPY over the duly elected POTUS. No reasonable person would trust you to represent the country fairly. https://t.co/myA77Rbau7 That pretty much sums it up. That needs to come out of their pay. No way should taxpayers fund anything so partisan. (Unless they can show they had the same sessions after Biden victory) https://t.co/kes45UGvSF Exactly. Pay for your own therapy like everyone else. A perfect example why @DOGE needs to exist. https://t.co/t1pygRlKjm It's so sorely needed.Elon Musk's Business Ties to China—What to Know as MAGA Turns on Trump Ally
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