Sun Sep 29 23:00:28 UTC 2024: ## AM Radio Back in Cars, Landsat 7 Retires, and AI Breaks CAPTCHAs

**Washington, D.C.** – The “AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act” took a significant step forward last week as it passed through the House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee. This legislation, which enjoys bipartisan support, would mandate AM radio receivers in all new cars sold in the US. This comes as auto manufacturers have been phasing out AM radios due to interference issues from modern vehicles. Supporters argue that AM radio is crucial for emergency broadcasts, reaching 90% of the US population.

**Meanwhile, NASA and the US Geological Survey bid farewell to the Landsat 7 satellite after a 25-year mission.** This aging satellite, launched in 1999, provided invaluable imagery of Earth changes, both natural and man-made. Its iconic “before and after” images, like those capturing the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, stand as a testament to its contribution to scientific understanding. While Landsat 7’s imaging capabilities were impacted by technical issues in its early years, it still delivered an impressive amount of data, making it a highly cited resource in the scientific literature.

**In a surprising turn of events, researchers at ETH Zurich revealed that AI can now solve Google’s reCAPTCHAv2.** This means the seemingly human-only task of identifying traffic lights, motorcycles, or cars in blurry images is no longer a reliable method of proving one is not a robot. This raises concerns about the security of CAPTCHAs, as AI’s ability to crack them undermines their purpose.

**Finally, a YouTube video detailing the process of changing a fuel filter on an Airbus A320 aircraft has gone viral.** This captivating tutorial, although not for the average viewer, offers a glimpse into the complex world of aircraft maintenance. The video’s accessibility and straightforward instructions have sparked both amusement and wonder among viewers, highlighting the intricate and often unexpected tasks involved in keeping these massive machines flying.

The article concludes with a series of comments discussing the importance of AM radio for emergency broadcasts, the security vulnerabilities of CAPTCHAs, and the complexities of aircraft maintenance. The lively debate highlights the diverse perspectives and ongoing conversations surrounding these technological advancements and their impact on our lives.

Read More