Episode 261 April 14, 2026

Artemis 2 looped the moon with four astronauts using certified iPhones; recovery involved Navy divers and paramedics. Trump announced NASA funding cuts. Artemis IV in 2028 targets the south pole for ice, delaying moon landings.

Elon seeks lunar satellite launches for low-cost AI support via solar energy and cooling. iPhone 17 outperforms Cray supercomputers. Tesla hardware 4 enables latest software; hw4checker.com verifies VINs. FSD 14.3 shows progress but loops in garages; taxis require state approval. Production ramps slowly; used Teslas need battery checks.

Used Teslas with hardware version four and extended warranties are considered over the slate truck at higher prices. Government mileage rules drive hybrid complexity and reliability concerns. Starlink’s low orbit improves military guidance. Nordic sand batteries store heat.

Higher-temperature battery storage aims to generate steam for community power, advancing efficiency. California Aqueduct gravity flow could use water wheels; evaporation covers remain unapplied. Rumored iPhone Ultra may use plastic screens; engineering delays are denied.

Neo’s success delays orders until August; a second generation using A19 chips and improved specs is anticipated. Windows dissatisfaction over ads and CoPilot contrasts with Linux’s viability. Iran reportedly targeted OpenAI’s Abu Dhabi center; desalinization strikes are noted. An Instagram clip marks Apple’s 50th anniversary with startup sounds.

Reuters confirmed a Tesla model with a back window, steering wheel, and pedals as a fallback; drive-by-wire design may allow conversion. California’s oil refinery closures and foreign imports risk economic disruption. A Harvard study links ice cream to lower diabetes risk.

Episode 261 April 14, 2026
Shack-Out-Back Studio