#reliability engineering certification training

[nirbobharvey]

Duro-last Membrane Roofs - What You Need To Know

Commercial property owners often deal with leaks, grease exposure, standing water, and expensive repairs. Restaurants place tremendous stress on roofing systems because kitchen exhaust systems release oils and contaminants that gradually break down many traditional roofing materials. When roofing membranes fail, interior damage, business interruptions, and costly repairs can quickly follow. Understanding how Duro-last membrane roofing systems work and why they are widely trusted (within commercial roofing applications) can help property owners make better long-term decisions.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information on Duro-last membrane roofing systems to help commercial property owners understand how these roofing systems differ from other membranes and why they are often preferred for restaurant roofing applications. This article explains what Duro-last membranes are, how they perform under demanding conditions, why certified installation is required, and how preventive maintenance can help maximize roof lifespan and performance.

Key Takeaways for Duro-last Roofing Systems

Duro-last roofing systems are engineered for commercial flat and low-slope roofing applications. One major takeaway is that these roofing membranes are not installed like many traditional roofing systems. Duro-last membranes are custom-fabricated before arriving at job sites, which significantly reduces the number of seams and installation time. Fewer seams often translate into fewer leaks and improved long-term waterproofing performance.

Another important takeaway involves durability. Restaurants and commercial buildings frequently generate rooftop contaminants such as grease, oils, and chemical exhaust from HVAC systems and kitchen vents. Many standard roofing membranes deteriorate after prolonged exposure to these substances. Duro-last membranes are designed to resist grease infiltration and chemical exposure more effectively than many traditional roofing materials, making them especially attractive for restaurant roofing systems.

Certification requirements are another critical factor. Duro-last roofing systems require specially trained and certified contractors for installation, repairs, and maintenance. This certification process ensures roofing professionals understand manufacturer specifications, welding procedures, drainage requirements, and warranty compliance standards. Property owners should avoid hiring uncertified contractors because improper installation may void warranties and compromise roofing performance.

Energy efficiency also makes these systems highly desirable. Duro-last membranes are commonly manufactured in highly reflective white finishes that help reduce rooftop heat absorption. This reflective surface can increase energy efficiency by lowering cooling demands during the summer months, particularly in commercial kitchens and restaurant environments where temperatures are already elevated.

Preventive maintenance remains essential despite strong durability. Regular inspections, drainage cleaning, flashing evaluations, and seam inspections help identify potential issues before major failures occur. Even premium roofing systems benefit from proactive maintenance strategies.

Finally, working with experienced certified contractors ensures proper performance and long-term reliability. New Image Roofing Atlanta is licensed for Duro-last installation, repair, and maintenance, and earned recognition as a “Best of Buckhead” 2026 Winner for Roofing Services. Choosing qualified professionals helps commercial property owners protect their investment and maintain warranty compliance.

What Are Duro-last Membrane Roofs?

Duro-last roofing systems are single-ply PVC membrane roofing systems designed primarily for commercial and industrial applications. These roofing systems are engineered for flat and low-slope roof structures where waterproofing reliability and long-term durability are essential.

Unlike many conventional membrane systems that require extensive installation and fabrication, Duro-last roofing materials are prefabricated in factory-controlled environments. Roofing sections are measured and manufactured according to specific building dimensions before delivery to job sites. This process reduces material waste and minimizes field seam requirements.

The membrane itself consists primarily of reinforced thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride material designed to resist punctures, moisture infiltration, ultraviolet exposure, and chemical contamination. Heat-welded seams create durable, watertight connections that enhance long-term performance.

Duro-last systems are commonly installed on:

Restaurants

Warehouses

Retail centers

Office buildings

Manufacturing facilities

Educational buildings

Their versatility and durability make them highly desirable for demanding commercial roofing environments.

How Duro-last Membranes Differ From Other Roofing Membranes

Several characteristics set Duro-last systems apart from traditional membrane roofing products.

Prefabricated Design

Traditional roofing systems often require significant cutting and fabrication directly on rooftops. Duro-last membranes are custom-manufactured beforehand, reducing installation errors and minimizing exposed seams.

Heat-Welded Seams

Duro-last systems use hot air-welded seams rather than adhesive-dependent seam systems common in some roofing products. Welded seams create stronger, watertight connections that resist moisture infiltration more effectively.

Grease and Chemical Resistance

Restaurant rooftops frequently experience grease contamination from kitchen exhaust systems. Duro-last membranes resist grease and chemical exposure better than many EPDM or modified bitumen systems.

Reflective Energy Efficiency

White reflective surfaces help reduce rooftop temperatures and improve energy efficiency. This benefit becomes especially valuable in hot climates where cooling demands are significant.

Reduced Installation Time

Prefabrication allows installation crews to complete projects more efficiently with reduced rooftop labor and fewer weather-related delays.

Why Duro-last Roofing Is Preferred for Restaurants

Restaurant roofing systems face unique challenges compared to many other commercial properties. Constant grease exhaust, elevated rooftop temperatures, moisture exposure, and HVAC activity place heavy stress on roofing materials.

Duro-last systems are often preferred because they offer:

Grease Resistance

Kitchen exhaust systems release oils that can degrade many roofing materials over time. Duro-last membranes resist grease absorption and chemical deterioration more effectively than several competing products.

Leak Prevention

Restaurants cannot afford significant interior water intrusion that disrupts operations or damages kitchen equipment. Reduced seam counts and welded connections help minimize leaks.

Easier Maintenance

Smooth membrane surfaces simplify cleaning and maintenance procedures around rooftop equipment and ventilation systems.

Energy Savings

Reflective membrane surfaces help reduce heat absorption, lowering cooling costs in commercial kitchen environments.

Long-Term Durability

Duro-last systems are engineered for demanding commercial conditions and can provide long service life when properly maintained.

Certified Installation and Maintenance Requirements

One critical aspect many property owners overlook involves certification requirements. Duro-last roofing systems must be installed, repaired, and maintained by fully certified contractors.

Certification ensures roofing professionals understand:

Proper welding procedures

Drainage requirements

Flashing installation methods

Membrane attachment systems

Warranty compliance standards

Repair procedures

Improper repairs performed by uncertified contractors may void manufacturer warranties and compromise roofing integrity. Property owners should verify a contractor’s certification before authorizing any work on a Duro-last roofing system.

New Image Roofing Atlanta Roof Maintenance Contract

Preventive maintenance is crucial in maximizing the lifespan and performance of Duro-last roofing systems. New Image Roofing Atlanta offers roof maintenance contracts designed specifically for commercial roofing protection.

Maintenance services may include:

Roof inspections

Seam evaluations

Drainage cleaning

Flashing inspections

Grease contamination assessments

Minor repair services

Rooftop equipment evaluations

Routine maintenance helps identify vulnerabilities before major leaks or membrane failures develop. Preventive service also helps maintain manufacturer warranty compliance and extend roofing lifespan.

Hire New Image Roofing Atlanta 404-680-0041

Commercial roofing systems require experienced professionals with specialized training and certification. New Image Roofing Atlanta is fully licensed for Duro-last installations, repairs, and maintenance. New Image Roofing Atlanta earned recognition as a “Best of Buckhead” 2026 Winner for Roofing Services.

Their experienced team understands the unique challenges associated with restaurant roofing systems and commercial membrane roofing applications. From complete roof installations to preventive maintenance and emergency repairs, New Image Roofing Atlanta provides professional solutions designed to protect commercial properties and reduce long-term repair costs.

Working with a certified Duro-last contractor like New Image Roofing Atlanta ensures roofing systems remain compliant with manufacturer standards while maximizing durability and waterproofing performance.

Duro-last Licensed Roofers

This article explained what Duro-last membrane roofing systems are, how they differ from traditional commercial roofing membranes, and why they are frequently preferred for restaurant roofing applications. You also learned why certified installation and maintenance are essential for warranty protection and long-term performance. Preventive maintenance and professional roofing expertise play significant roles in maximizing a roof’s lifespan and reducing any potential leaks.

Choosing a certified Duro-last roofing professional and maintaining your roofing system can improve waterproofing reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings. Strong commercial roofing systems help protect businesses from disruptions, interior damage, and expensive emergency repairs.

Ignoring maintenance requirements or hiring uncertified contractors can lead to seam failures, leaks, grease contamination damage, voided warranties, and costly structural repairs. Poor installation practices often shorten a roof’s lifespan and create unnecessary financial burdens for commercial property owners.

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232 Atlanta, GA30318 [phone]

To see the original version of this article, visit https://www.newimageroofingatlanta.com/duro-last-membrane-roofs-what-you-need-to-know/

[zhongshanstar]

The Workhorse of Modern Flight Schools: Why the M615 Hexacopter is Redefining Drone Pilot Training

Running a drone flight academy isn‘t just about teaching people to fly. It’s about managing budgets, ensuring safety, and preparing students for real-world certifications like CAAC, AOPA, and ALPA. The biggest hidden cost? Equipment that can‘t keep up.

We’ve spoken to dozens of training managers, and the pain points are universal: training drones that break down after a few hard landings, logistics nightmares moving bulky equipment, and losing valuable training days to bad weather.

That‘s exactly why we engineered the M615 (Class IV) Heavy-Lift Hexacopter. It’s not just a product; it‘s a durable, all-weather training partner​ designed to solve institutional challenges.

Here’s a closer look at what makes it different:

• Built for the Grind:​ The modular unibody frame​ and IP65 waterproof/dustproof rating​ mean it survives beginner mistakes and flies in conditions that would ground other trainers. Less downtime, more training hours.

• Logistics, Solved:​ The patented embracing fold design​ is a game-changer. It reduces storage and transport volume by over 60%. Imagine fitting three drones in the space of one.

• True-to-Life Training:​ With a 15kg payload capacity, students train with the weight and balance of mission-ready drones, not just toy-grade models. This is crucial for BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) certification​ prep.

• Specs for the Pros:​ 34kg MTOW | 20min空载 / 10min满载 flight time | X8 integrated propulsion | Universal 6S-14S battery plate.

Who it‘s for:​ Forward-thinking drone flight academies, vocational colleges, and government training programs looking for a reliable, long-term investment, not just another piece of hardware.

We are ZHONGSHAN STAR.​ As an OEM/ODM manufacturer, we partner with training institutions worldwide to build the tools that build the next generation of pilots.

Thoughts?​ For flight school operators, what‘s the #1 challenge you face with your current training fleet? Let’s discuss in the notes.

Professional product customization, foreign trade export, trustworthy and high-quality integrated industrial and trading import and export t

#drones #dronetraining #heavyliftdrone #CAAC #AOPA #UAV #flightacademy #aviation #tech #engineering #madeinchina #OEM #professionaldrone #BVLOS #hexacopter

[skillupjournal]

Top Emerging Data Analytics Careers to Watch in 2026: High-Demand Roles & Skills

The demand for data-driven decision-making is accelerating across industries, making data analytics one of the most lucrative and future-proof career paths in 2026. With the rise of AI, automation, and big data, new roles are emerging that require a blend of technical expertise, business understanding, and analytical thinking.

This guide explores the top data analytics careers to watch, the skills required, and how to position yourself for success.

Why Data Analytics Careers Are Growing Rapidly

Organizations are investing heavily in data to:

Improve customer experience

Optimize operations

Predict market trends

Drive revenue growth

Key trend: Companies are shifting from descriptive analytics to predictive and prescriptive analytics, increasing the demand for specialized roles.

Top Emerging Data Analytics Careers in 2026

1. Data Analyst

Role: Transform raw data into actionable insights using dashboards and reports.

Key Skills:

SQL, Excel

Data visualization (Power BI, Tableau)

Basic statistics

Why it’s in demand: Entry point for most data careers with strong demand across industries.

2. Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst

Role: Focus on business metrics, dashboards, and strategic insights.

Key Skills:

Power BI / Tableau

Data modeling

Stakeholder communication

Growth factor: High demand in companies focusing on KPI-driven decision-making.

3. Data Scientist

Role: Build predictive models using machine learning algorithms.

Key Skills:

Python / R

Machine Learning

Statistical modeling

Trend: Integration of AI tools is making this role more powerful and scalable.

4. Data Engineer

Role: Design and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure.

Key Skills:

SQL, Python

Big data tools (Hadoop, Spark)

Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)

Why it matters: Data engineers enable analytics teams by ensuring clean and reliable data flow.

5. AI & Machine Learning Analyst

Role: Apply AI models to business problems and optimize outcomes.

Key Skills:

Machine learning frameworks

Data preprocessing

Model evaluation

Future scope: Rapid growth due to AI adoption across industries.

6. Marketing Data Analyst

Role: Analyze campaign performance, customer behavior, and ROI.

Key Skills:

Google Analytics

Performance marketing metrics

Customer segmentation

Relevance: Critical for businesses investing in digital marketing.

7. Product Analyst

Role: Analyze user behavior to improve product features and user experience.

Key Skills:

A/B testing

Product metrics (retention, churn)

SQL, analytics tools

Demand driver: Growth of SaaS and tech products.

Key Skills Required for Data Analytics Careers in 2026

To stay competitive, professionals should focus on:

Technical Skills: SQL, Python, Excel, BI tools

Analytical Skills: Problem-solving, critical thinking

Business Skills: Understanding KPIs and industry trends

AI Integration: Using AI tools for automation and insights

Tools You Must Learn

Data Visualization: Tableau, Power BI

Programming: Python, R

Analytics: Google Analytics

Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL

Cloud: AWS, Google Cloud

How to Start a Career in Data Analytics

Step-by-step roadmap:

Learn fundamentals (Excel, SQL, statistics)

Work on real-world projects

Build a portfolio (dashboards, case studies)

Gain certifications

Apply for internships or entry-level roles

Upskilling with Industry-Relevant Training

To build practical skills and stay industry-ready, structured learning is essential. Platforms like DataSpace Academy provide hands-on training in data analytics, AI tools, and real-world projects.

Such programs focus on:

Practical implementation over theory

Live projects and case studies

Industry mentorship

Job-oriented training

Future Trends in Data Analytics Careers

Rise of AI-powered analytics

Increased demand for real-time data processing

Growth of no-code and low-code analytics tools

Expansion of data roles in non-tech industries

Conclusion

Data analytics careers in 2026 are diverse, high-paying, and full of growth opportunities. Whether you start as a data analyst or move into advanced roles like data science or AI, the key to success lies in continuous learning and hands-on experience.

By developing the right skills and staying aligned with industry trends, you can build a future-proof career in data analytics.

[almondenterprise]

Cost vs. Quality: What to Consider When Investing in Switchgear

In today’s energy-intensive world, switchgear plays a critical role in managing power distribution safely and efficiently. Whether you’re upgrading your industrial facility, building a commercial plant, or powering a large infrastructure project, choosing the right switchgear is not just a technical decision — it’s a strategic investment. One of the most common dilemmas buyers face is balancing cost vs. quality. So, how do you decide?

Understanding Switchgear: The Heart of Electrical Safety

Switchgear is a combination of electrical disconnect switches, fuses, or circuit breakers used to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment. Its primary role is to ensure the reliability and safety of your power system.

Types of switchgear include:

· Low-voltage switchgear (for commercial and residential use)

· Medium-voltage switchgear (typically for industrial applications)

· High-voltage switchgear (used in power transmission)

Investing in the right switchgear directly impacts operational continuity, personnel safety, and overall infrastructure reliability.

The True Cost of Cheap Switchgear:

While it’s tempting to opt for budget-friendly solutions, low-cost switchgear often comes with hidden risks and long-term expenses.

Inferior Material Quality

Cheaper models often use substandard materials that degrade faster, leading to frequent maintenance or early replacement.

Safety Hazards

Low-quality switchgear can result in arc faults, insulation failure, or overheating — putting workers and equipment at risk.

Increased Lifecycle Costs

Although the initial price may be low, the total cost of ownership (including downtime, repair, and energy inefficiency) is usually higher.

Limited Scalability and Customization

Budget systems are often rigid and harder to scale as your facility grows or needs change.

Why Quality Switchgear Pays Off

When you invest in premium switchgear, you’re not just buying a product — you’re buying peace of mind.

Enhanced Reliability

High-quality switchgear is engineered to perform in extreme conditions and handle high fault levels without compromising performance.

Superior Safety Standards

Reputable brands comply with international standards such as IEC, ANSI, or UL, reducing liability and improving workplace safety.

Ease of Maintenance

Well-built switchgear is modular and user-friendly, simplifying diagnostics and minimizing downtime during maintenance.

Energy Efficiency & Smart Capabilities

Modern switchgear includes IoT sensors, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance features, ensuring optimal energy use and proactive problem resolution.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Switchgear

When evaluating switchgear options, balance cost and quality by focusing on the following:

1. Application Requirements

Understand your voltage class, load types, and fault current ratings. Quality should match your operational demands.

2. Brand Reputation & Certification

Look for trusted brands with certifications like ISO 9001, CE, or IEC 62271. Positive reviews and case studies add credibility.

3. Lifecycle Costs

Don’t just compare sticker prices — consider maintenance, service availability, spare part costs, and expected lifespan.

4. Customization & Flexibility

Choose systems that can evolve with your operation. Modular designs support upgrades and expansions more efficiently.

5. Support and Service

Ensure the manufacturer provides robust after-sales support, technical training, and warranty services.

Cost vs. Quality: The Bottom Line

When it comes to switchgear, cheap is rarely cheerful. Cutting corners today can lead to outages, hazards, and hefty repair bills tomorrow. On the other hand, investing in high-quality switchgear ensures operational resilience, safety, and long-term savings.

The smartest strategy? Aim for value, not just price. Evaluate switchgear as a long-term asset, not just a one-time purchase.

Trending Tip: Think Smart and Sustainable

With rising energy demands and climate-conscious regulations, smart and sustainable switchgear is trending. Look for:

· Eco-friendly insulation (like SF₆-free switchgear)

· Energy management features

· Digital monitoring systems

Investing in such features not only future-proofs your infrastructure but can also help you qualify for green certifications and incentives.

Final Thoughts

Balancing cost and quality in switchgear selection is about understanding your long-term operational goals. By focusing on durability, safety, and lifecycle value, you can make a decision that protects both your budget and your business.

[jjheejz]

About 15.8.21

This is an ongoing update about the case from start to development. List of all related posts can be found on this blog's pinned post (link provided at bottom of each post as well).

22 August 2021: Further reading as bonus

19 August 2021 update: Rephrasing

17 August 2021 update: Removed bonus due to out of context and rephrasing

Originally posted on 15 August 2021

Here's the official announcement made by China Association of Performing Arts today.

Am outside now so have used Google Translate to translate the whole statement, the translation is about 95% accurate, so you can trust the content as it is.

He is officially boycotted in the Entertainment Industry, and there is no mention of a permanent boycott.

His music had all been taken down from the charts and official platforms. His past drama and works are still up.

All of ZZH's China social media accounts were blocked/banned. His Instagram is deactivated (link), on his own on 16 August 2021. There are no social media accounts direct with him now.

Before jumping into conclusions, please remember that ZZH was very big and famous in China. The issue came out on 13 August 2021 and today (15 August 2021) is the 75th Anniversary of Japan's surrender announcement.

It is supposed to be a solemn day so with ZZH's case involving Japan and in a (not-so-coincidental = link) clash with the Anniversary.

Bonus (more info about China Association of Performing Arts)

Google Translate:

"The China Association of Performing Arts (China Association of Performing Arts) is a national first-level social organization under the supervision of the Chinese Ministry of Culture. It is a national, industry-based, and non-profit social organization formed voluntarily by performance operators and performance practitioners.

The China Performance Industry Association has 17 branches and professional committees, including performance brokers, theaters, online performances (live broadcast), ticketing, stage engineering companies, producers, children's art performances, art popularization education, musicals, etc., with 30 provinces Class Performance Industry Association, with nearly 10,000 member units.

The members of the association include units and individuals of theatrical performance groups, performance venues, performance companies, performance brokerage companies, Internet live broadcast companies, performance ticket companies, and stage engineering companies.

The main business of China Performance Industry Association is: organizing performance industry market research and providing industry advice to government departments; organizing and implementing the qualification certification of performance practitioners such as actors and performance brokers; developing and promoting performance industry technology and service standardization; Formulate industry self-discipline standards, mediate member disputes arising from performance activities; develop legal consulting services to protect members' legal rights and interests; organize performance practitioners to carry out business exchanges, business training, industry evaluations and project promotion activities; organize international and domestic performance industry exchange activities; Organize activities such as the China International Performance Fair, theoretical seminars, and experience exchanges."

Information found through Baidu Baike (Wikipedia equivalent): this site is still reliable for general information/facts - source

Related posts 🛏️:

This blog’s Content Page [Updated as of 19 August 2021] For your one-stop easy access, or you can just scroll. All original post links belo

[usafphantom2]

Belgium and the United Arab Emirates request the U.S. support package for F-16 and C-17 aircraft

The main contractors of the two maintenance support packages are Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 07/25/2022 - 14:00 in Military

Boeing C-17 Globemaster III of the United Arab Emirates Air Force. (Photo: UR-SDV / Wikimedia Commons)

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified the U.S. Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of support for Belgium's F-16 fighters and United Arab Emirates C-17 transport aircraft.

Approved by the U.S. Department of State, the estimated value of the sale and associated equipment is approximately $127 million for the F-16s and $980.4 million for the C-17s.

The additional support support of the F-16 Fighting Falcon requested by the Belgian government will be added to a previously implemented case.

The original $98.4 million sales package involved the support of the F-16, including AN/ARC-210 radios, computer program identification numbers, classified software, electronic warfare database support, support equipment, software integration support and aircraft and ammunition support, as well as test support and equipment.

Belgian F-16 fighters. (Photo: VanderWolf Images / Shutterstock)

In a press release, DSCA said: "The proposed sale will improve Belgium's ability to face current and future threats, keeping its F-16 fleet in a state ready for combat and providing rotating forces to NATO's eastern flank."

The Belgian Air Force was one of the first international customers of the F-16, having ordered a total of 160 F-16s. The country is now acquiring the 34 F-35 fighters that will eventually replace the F-16.

The main contractor for the new Belgian package is Lockheed Martin, from Bethesda, Maryland.

The C-17 Globemaster aircraft support package and materials associated with the United Arab Emirates has also been approved by the U.S. Department of State.

The main contractor will be The Boeing Company, from Chicago, Illinois, which delivered a total of 8 Globemasters to the United Arab Emirates by 2012.

The agency said in a statement: "The proposal to renew support for C-17 aircraft will provide the government of the United Arab Emirates with reliable defense capability, provide strategic and humanitarian air transport and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces."

The two FMSs will make the U.S. provide engineers, studies and research, technical and logistical support services, classified and unclassified publications, technical documentation and other associated elements of logistical and program support.

Tags: Military AviationBelgian Air Component wings - Belgian Air ForceBoeing C-17 Globemaster IIIDSCAF-16 Fighting FalconUAEAF - United Arab Emirates Air Force

Previous news

China's C919 commercial jet is closer to certification after completing test flights

Next news

South Korean KA-1 coaches will receive update package with digital cockpit

Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in a specialized aviation magazine in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

Related news

Republic of Korea Air Force KA-1 training aircraft flies alongside USAF A-10 jets.

MILITARY

South Korean KA-1 coaches will receive update package with digital cockpit

07/25/2022 - 4:00 PM

Israeli F-35I fighters during the Falcon Strike 2021 exercise.

MILITARY

LIGHTNING SHIELD: Israel and Italy start joint exercise with F-35 fighters

07/25/2022 - 08:00 AM

MILITARY

The first clear image of the Chinese Navy's J-35 fighter appears

07/24/2022 - 7:00 PM

Two B-2 and two F-35s from the RAAF fly during joint exercise in Australia.

MILITARY

The beautiful images of the B-2 bombers flying in formation with the Australian F-35s

07/24/2022 - 6:00 PM

MILITARY

IMAGES: German Air Force presents impressive painting scheme in one of its Eurofighters

07/24/2022 - 4:00 PM

Illustrative photo, because it is not yet known what Phoenix Ghost really looks like.

MILITARY

What is the Phoenix Ghost drone, which Ukraine will receive from the U.S. another 580 units?

07/24/2022 - 14:00

HOME Main Page Editorials Information Events Collaborate SPECIALS Advertise About

Cavok Brasil - Digital Tchê Web Creation

Commercial

Executive

Helicopters

History

Military

Brazilian Air Force

Space

SPECIALS

Cavok Brasil - Digital Tchê Web Creation

[therealuniverse]

THE FIRST WOMAN IN SPACE: VALENTINA TERESHKOVA Tereshkova became the first woman in space aboard Vostok 6. She was born on March 6, 1937 and raised in Maslennikovo, a small town in the Yaroslavl Region. Her family included a younger brother and an elder sister; her father was a tractor driver who was declared missing in action in the Finno-Russian War of 1939-1940. Her mother raised the three children on her own whilst also working in a textile plant.

Tereshkova did not start school until she was eight, once the war was over. At the age of 17 she had to leave school so she could start working at the textile factory, to help support her family. She continued her education via correspondence course and learned to sky dive through the DOSAAF Aviation Club in Yaroslavl, an auxiliary organization of the Soviet Air Force. Tereshkova’s first sky dive was on 21 May 1959 and afterwards she set up the Textile Mill Workers Parachute Club and became its first head. Two years after that, she became secretary of her local Komsomol (Young Communist League) and earned certification as a cotton-spinning technology expert. A month after she turned 24, in April 1961, Yuri Gagarin officially became the first man in space when the Soviet Union launched the Vostok-1 spacecraft (http://on.fb.me/WtbCqM). Kamanin, the cosmonaut chief, believed it was the patriotic duty of the Soviet Union to beat the Americans to put a woman in space. He went to the Soviet Air Force and Chief Designer Korolev straight after Gagarin’s flight, proposing they find a female cosmonaut who would also be a dedicated Communist. With Korolev’s agreement, in October 1961 Kamanin ensured five women were among the 50 new cosmonauts recruited. Piloting was not a requirement for the recruits, as the Vostok was completely automated. Parachuting experience was essential however, as the cosmonaut within the Vostok would be ejected from the capsule after re-entry and would land on the Earth’s surface using a personal parachute. The qualifications were: females under 30 years of age; under 170 cm tall; under 70 kg in weight; physically fit; ideologically pure; who had completed parachute training of at least five to six months duration. Kamanin was one of the founders of DOSAAF so searched for girls matching his criteria among the Soviet Union’s aero clubs. There were 58 potential candidates within the DOSAAF and 40 of these passed the paper review and were sent to Moscow for interviews and physical examinations in January 1962. Tereshkova met all the requirements; though the fact that her father was missing in action rather than killed in action raised the possibility, though remote, that he had deserted or fled. As she was a Komsomol leader this hurdle was overlooked and she became one of five women selected as cosmonaut-candidates on 16 February 1962. Of the five, she was the least qualified and held no higher education; the others were test pilots, world-class parachutists, and engineers. The five women underwent training including weightless flights, parachute jumps, isolation tests and centrifuge tests. Kamanin considered Tereshkova, Solovyova and Kuznetsova to be the leading candidates for the first female flight to space. Tereshkova was very strong in the physical training, but struggled more than the others with rocket theory and spacecraft engineering. The training next included 120 parachute jumps as well as pilot training in MiG-15UTI jet trainers. All women were commissioned as lieutenants in the Soviet Air Force; Tereshkova also became a full member of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. In May 1962 cosmonaut Gherman Titov and Kamanin joined a Soviet delegation to Washington. They went to a barbecue at the home of astronaut John Glenn, who led them to believe that the first American woman would make a three-orbit Mercury flight by the end of 1962. Kamanin managed to convince Soviet authorities that America may beat them to get the first woman into space, so the decision was made to approve the first flight of a Soviet woman within weeks of the delegates’ return to the Soviet Union. In August of that year the Soviets also achieved the first dual manned spaceflight, when Vostok 3 and 4 orbited in space together, each carrying a cosmonaut. Kamanin proposed that Vostok 5 and 6 should orbit two women in space together; this was the official plan for 1963. Selection for the flights took place on 19 November 1962; it was between Tereshkova and Ponomaryova. While Ponomaryova had the best test results, she did not tow the party line as well as Tereshkova did; when asked 'what do you want from life?' Tereshkova replied 'I want to support irrevocably the Komsomol and Communist Party' whereas Ponomaryova said 'I want to take everything it can offer'. Ponomaryova also maintained that a woman could smoke and still be a decent person, and had gone unescorted into the town of Fedosiya while there for parachute training (a scandal). The plan for a dual female flight was approved right until the last moment, when party ideologue Kozlov and Ministry of Defense Chief Ustinov quashed the idea on 21 March 1963. For propaganda purposes, only one female would fly. There would be a dual flight, but the other cosmonaut was to be a male: Bykovsky. This last minute training for Bykovsky delayed the dual flights for two months. Because Tereshkova was less qualified than Ponomaryova, she was chosen for the mission. Korolev planned a more complex mission for two women, which would involve space piloting skills and a spacewalk. Korolev planned to use Ponomaryova and Solovyova for the more complex mission, so Tereshkova was chosen for the ‘easier’ mission as she was the least skilled of the three potential cosmonauts. It was Premier Khrushchev who ultimately made the final crew selection however; Tereshkova was chosen as she was seen as a reliable communist, a factory worker from a humble background, and a 'good' girl. Kamanin later referred to her as 'Gagarin in a skirt'. Vostok 5 was launched June 14, 1963 with Bykovsky aboard. Two days later Tereshkova became the first woman in space aboard Vostok 6; she had the call sign 'Chaika' (Seagull). Kamanin, Korolev, and Mishin published their memoirs after the fall of the Soviet Union, discussing the problems of the flight. Korolev and Mishin both blamed Tereshkova for ‘psychological instability’. Kamanin claimed they exaggerated her difficulties during the flight and that she only had tasks assigned for the first day. When the flight was extended for a second, and then a third day, she had little to do and the ground command offered little support. Tereshkova did not release her version of events until 2007. She claimed the automatic orientation system of her Vostok capsule was incorrectly set up and that her capsule was oriented 90 degrees from the intended direction on orbit insertion. If retrofire was initiated, this would have sent her to her death in a higher orbit, rather than braked for a return to the Earth's atmosphere. It took a day for the ground crew to verify this and rectify the problem. She did vomit in space, and Korolev wanted to bring her down early because of this. She claimed it was due to the food, and not space-sickness. To combat her ‘space-sickness’, she was ordered to stay strapped to her seat and she developed a cramp in her right shin on the third day. She also developed a sore pressure point where her helmet’s ring pressed on her shoulder. Once ejected from the capsule, Tereshkova nearly ended up in a splashdown in a large lake before a high wind blew her to the shore. This resulted in a landing so heavy that she hit her nose on her helmet, giving her a large bruise. For public appearances after the landing, she needed heavy makeup. She worried this makeup would detract from her image as a pure worker girl. Tereshkova completed three days in space aboard Vostok 6. Bykovsky's Vostok 5 landed after five days in space, three hours after Vostok 6. A few people in the Soviet Air Force attempted to discredit her after her historic flight. Some charged that she was drunk when she reported to the launch pad and that she was insubordinate in orbit and deliberately disregarding orders from the Center. It appears those in charge thought she should have accepted death from the incorrect spacecraft orientation rather than embarrass the managers on the ground. In September 1963, 3 months after the flight, the militia alleged she was drunk and had created a scandal with a militia officer in Gorkiy. She denied the drunkenness but admitted to a confrontation with a militia captain. Kamanin defended her against all charges and it was Tereshkova’s opponents who were dismissed. There had been a joke that Tereshkova should marry Andrian Nikolayev, the only bachelor cosmonaut to have flown. The joke escalated into rumours of a relationship; these rumours reached Premier Khrushchev, who thought it would be a great idea for them to marry and applied pressure through Kamanin. On 3 November 1963 at the Moscow Wedding Palace, Tereshkova and Nikolayev married. The wedding party was held at a governmental mansion and Khrushchev presided, with top government and space leaders in attendance. Tereshkova gave birth to her daughter, Elena Andrianovna, on 8 June 1964. By most accounts however the marriage was not a happy one, though divorcing would mean the end of their careers. The couple were forced to remain together. Tereshkova and the other female cosmonauts were never considered for flight assignments on an equal basis with their male counterparts. Flights by women into space were considered only for propaganda purposes during the Soviet era. The number of flight slots was always fewer than the number of cosmonauts so any woman who flew in space was considered to be taking the place of a man. The proposed all-female Voskhod flight was cancelled; in part due to the pressure from Gagarin and the other male cosmonauts, also to allow the space agency to concentrate on the development of the Soyuz spacecraft. Tereshkova gained a graduate level engineering education at the Zhukovskiy Military Air Academy from 1964 to 1969, after which the female cosmonaut detachment was disbanded. Tereshkova became a Communist politician and international representative. In the late 1970’s the Soviet space agency again recruited female cosmonauts, due to impending flights by American women. Tereshkova hoped to be included and submitted to a medical review in 1978. Though Tereshkova did not pass the tests and was not allowed to fly again, she had fallen in love with a physician, Yuliy Shaposhnikov, at the military medical academy. Tereshkova separated from Nikolayev in 1979 and applied for divorce, but the divorce required the special permission of Soviet Premier Brezhnev, which came in 1982. Tereshkova and Shaposhnikov remained happily married for twenty years until his death in 1999. Tereshkova always dreamed of going back to space and particularly wanted to be part of the first expedition to Mars. She was one of many cosmonauts who were prepared to go on a one-way mission if it meant they could reach the Red Planet. Though Tereshkova never flew in space after 1962, she lent her support to many women’s organisations and worked tirelessly for the Communist Party. Among her many accomplishments include: member of the World Peace Council in 1966; a member of the Yaroslavl Supreme Soviet in 1967; a member of the council of the Union of the Supreme Soviet in 1966-1970 and 1970-1974. In 1974 she was elected to the presidium of the Supreme Soviet and was the Soviet representative to the UN Conference for the International Women's Year in Mexico City in 1975. In the 1980's she continued as a Deputy to the Supreme Soviet, Vice President of the International Women's Federation; and several other international positions. She holds two Orders of Lenin; recognition as a Hero of the Soviet Union; the United Nation Gold Medal of Peace; the Simba International Women's Movement Award; and the Joliot-Curie Gold Medal. In the year 2000, Valentina Tereshkova was named “Greatest Woman Achiever of the Century” by the British Women of the Year Association. In 2011, she was elected to serve in the Russian state Duma, where she continues to serve to this day. Tereshkova lives in a brick dacha on the outskirts of Star City; the house has a seagull weathervane on top, to commemorate her call sign. She has two grandsons, Andrei and Aleksei. In 1982 Svetlana Savitskaya became the second woman in space and in 1984 became the first woman to walk in space. There was a planned all-female Soyuz flight to coincide with International Women's Day in 1985, which was cancelled due to problems with the Salyut 7 space station. After the fall of the Soviet Union, Russian women flew to the Mir and ISS as regular crew members, not for propaganda purposes. “Once you've been in space, you appreciate how small and fragile the Earth is.” Valentina Tereshkova -TEL Read more about Yuri Gagarin here: http://on.fb.me/WtbCqM http://www.astronautix.com/t/tereshkova.html https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/valentina-tereshkova-quotes Image credit: https://www.esa.int/About_Us/ESA_history/50_years_of_humans_in_space/First_woman_in_space_Valentina

[andmaybegayer]

[Warning: this post is mostly me talking to myself in text form for journaling purposes, and as a result is boring and sucks. I told you so.]

I've been listening to The Anthropocene Reviewed for the past couple months, slowly working through the episodes. A couple weeks ago I listened to the one on "Tetris, and, The Seed Potatoes of Leningrad."

You've probably heard about the seed potatoes of Leningrad, there was a post from the @tilthat bot going around. TL;DR, during the siege of Leningrad, scientists at the seed bank in Leningrad protected the enormous cache of food crop samples in storage there (many unique) and didn't eat any of it, while the scientists and people around them starved to death, cut off from supplies by the siege.

There are of course, two ways to look at this. Those scientists were brainwashed idiots, who protects mere crops while human lives are ending, how cold and heartless can you be. Those scientists are stoic heroes, they understood that the value of a seedbank far exceeded the value of the individuals around them, a fact they knew truly and objectively as professionals in their field.

Lots of problems people face look like this. Do you do something that helps you and the people immediate to you in the short term, likely leading to long term benefit for your group, or do you do something that is suboptimal for you and yours but helps many more people who may not help you in turn or even know you exist.

This post takes a turn now, and we’ll talk about Brain Drain.

Brain Drain (more formally "Human Capital Flight") is when people trained by one nation emigrate to another, usually because of actual or perceived improvement to quality of life in the second place, carrying their skills with them. The classic example is Jewish scientists fleeing the Nazis, or for a more controversial example, Soviet professionals defecting to the USA.

Now those are highly politically charged situations, so let’s look at the one I’m dealing with: South Africa is kind of a lame place to live compared to some other places.

South Africa is a rich and functional country by African standards but it’s still not a First World Country. Our currency is weak. Our Gini index is a joke. Education is poor the moment you step outside of urban centers, and even then, there are problems. The electrical supply is mostly reliable but regularly suffers from rolling blackouts. Violent crime rates have fallen dramatically over the years but are still higher than in many other parts of the world. Cities are unnavigable sprawls with little public transport. Internet is expensive. We get lower quality produce because the best stuff gets exported to richer countries who can pay more for it. The political system is deeply corrupt in ways that make even normal corrupt politicans go “well that’s a bit much.”

But I also grew up here. I got my immunizations from government clinics and government nurses. I attended a government school, and my university education was heavily subsidized because I am a citizen. I drive on public roads, My house is lit with electricity from a nationalized electrical grid. I was part of a team that had government funding to compete in a high-profile supercomputing competition, which included a completely free 10 day long training course for 80 undergraduate students. At some level, the investments of the government (and by extension, taxpayers) function and provide a return, if by return you mean training individuals within the population who can produce value in the standing economic system, workers with high school certificates and medical doctorates and welding qualifications.

Lots of South African professionals seek to leave the country. It is all at once a sufficiently modern and unequal country that if you grow up and become University Educated, you will likely identify more with other countries than with South Africa at large. I have lost count of how many people I know who have moved to Australia or the Netherlands or the UK or the USA. Many of them went through the same school and university system I did, and benefited from the same subsidies.

People frequently encourage me to leave the country, both for the primary reason (you can make more money as an engineer in the West) or for other reasons (you should see the world/you should experience other people) and I always feel torn between those. I have long been on the side of those Soviet scientists protecting their seed bank. I like to believe that I would choose the mass benefit over short term personal gain, that is the Socialist™ way after all. I feel (at some level) an obligation to live here, work here, to work to (at least) give value to people around me and (at best) to directly improve the systems around me.

But there is a thin line between obligation and nationalism. This is a nationalist tendency, at some level. Not quite “this country is good because it is mine,” but “this country has a claim to me, and I to it, and so I should stand by it,” which is, worrying, at times. How do you tell the difference. Should you even contribute to a system that you think creates a great deal of pain, suffering, and violence, and which sustains many harmful cycles. Can the good cop improve a bad system. Or should you just take what you can get and run as far as you can, because nothing you can do will help.

(Incidentally, I believe that a lot of things tied to the fascist aesthetic are not implicitly bad, but rather things that combine poorly with other traits. Nationalism is theoretically a powerful attribute to cultivate, if, of course, you are a truly virtuous nation which can vouch for the aims of its people en masse. Not that those nations exist anywhere.)

A deep part of me also /wants/ to flee. The work to improve a country (even when you are in a good position to do so) is slow, frequently hopeless, and does not often bear fruit in your lifetime. I have ADHD, so that’s a rough proposition. I can barely wait for things that I know will bear fruit in the next three days. I have been to New York City twice, and since the first time my heart has ached for dense public transport, the alien experience of white people walking in the street by choice, and the strange sense of certainty New York has of its place in the world. I love central Johannesburg, I like walking and being there when I get the chance, it is a place that is full of people and occurrences, but I am always reminded of a line by Neal Stephenson.

The only ones left in the city are street people, feeding off debris; immigrants, thrown out like shrapnel from the destruction of the Asian powers (and) young smart people... who take the risk of living in the city because they like stimulation and they know they can handle it.

Many people despise central Johannesburg, because it is a dangerous kind of stimulating which does not allow much room to relax if you, like me, are an outsider to the place. This isn’t the USA where every seventh person has an iPhone, it is easy to be a mark. Hell, several of my friends have been robbed in the suburbs, the city is a whole other animal.

That was fairly off topic. This is also my post, so I don’t care.

I have mostly been on the side of staying. The potential benefits of moving away are often just ideas of greener grass on the other side. There is no reasonable proof that I would be happier with public transport in the long term, merely more mobile. There is no reason to believe that living in the country that produced the media I am inundated with will somehow make that more meaningful to me, just physically closer. There is no reason why people from elsewhere could make better friends in person than the ones I already have here. These are mostly thoughts that are appealing to think because they cannot be proven, and so benefit from being hypothetical.