Can tap-to-pay save public transportation?
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Can tap-to-pay save public transportation?

The Stepback newsletter, authored by Andrew J. Hawkins, explores the evolving relationship between transportation and technology, highlighting the transformative experience of using mobile devices for subway access in New York City. Subscribe for insights delivered weekly.


What is tap-to-pay in public transportation and how does it work?
Tap-to-pay is a contactless fare payment system that allows riders to use contactless credit or debit cards, smartphones, wearable devices, or dedicated transit cards to pay for public transportation fares by simply tapping on a reader. This system, exemplified by New York City's OMNY, replaces traditional fare cards like the MetroCard and enables faster, more convenient access to subways, buses, and other transit services without the need to buy or load a separate transit card.
Sources: [1]
What are the benefits of using tap-to-pay systems like OMNY for public transit riders?
Tap-to-pay systems offer several benefits including free transfers between transit legs when using the same card or device, fare capping where riders pay for up to a certain number of rides within a period and then ride free thereafter, and the ability to view trip and charge history online. Additionally, tap-to-pay supports integration with digital wallets, speeding up the payment process and reducing the need to wait in lines for vending machines.
Sources: [1]

05 October 2025

The Verge
Trivia in orbit: How well do you know the ISS?
International Space Station

Trivia in orbit: How well do you know the ISS?

A new quiz challenges participants on their knowledge of orbital mechanics, international collaborations, and essential facts about the International Space Station. This engaging test promises to enhance understanding of space exploration and its global significance.


How does the International Space Station maintain a stable orbit around Earth?
The ISS maintains a stable orbit by balancing Earth's gravitational pull with its high orbital velocity of about 17,500 miles per hour. This balance causes the station to continuously 'fall' around Earth without crashing into it. Additionally, the ISS performs periodic reboost maneuvers to counteract atmospheric drag that gradually slows it down and lowers its altitude.
Sources: [1]
What is the significance of the ISS's nearly circular orbit and its orbital speed?
The ISS orbits Earth in a nearly circular path with an eccentricity of about 0.0003, traveling at approximately 7.7 kilometers per second (about 17,500 mph). This nearly circular orbit ensures consistent altitude and conditions for scientific experiments and international collaboration. The high speed allows the ISS to complete an orbit roughly every 90 minutes, enabling it to circle Earth 15 to 16 times daily.
Sources: [1], [2]

05 October 2025

Space.com
Apple

Remembering Steve Jobs, 14 years after his death

On the tenth anniversary of Steve Jobs's passing, AppleInsider reflects on his profound thoughts about life and death, highlighting the enduring legacy of the iconic Apple co-founder who continues to be revered and missed by many.


What were Steve Jobs's most notable reflections on life and death, and how did they influence his legacy?
Steve Jobs was known for his profound insights on life and death, often emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and the inevitability of mortality. These reflections, shared in public speeches and interviews, have become a significant part of his enduring legacy, inspiring many to pursue meaningful work and live authentically. His thoughts continue to be widely quoted and discussed, especially around the anniversaries of his passing.
Sources: [1]
How did Steve Jobs's health issues impact his later years at Apple and his eventual passing?
Steve Jobs was diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer in 2003 and underwent surgery in 2004. Despite a liver transplant in 2009, his health continued to decline, leading to his resignation as Apple CEO in August 2011. He passed away on October 5, 2011, at age 56, from complications related to pancreatic cancer. His health struggles were a significant factor in his reduced public presence during his final years, yet he remained deeply involved in Apple's direction until shortly before his death.
Sources: [1], [2]

05 October 2025

AppleInsider News
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