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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Several significant developments unfolded this week, ranging from political boycotts to advancements in space exploration and challenges in the healthcare and transportation sectors. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) refused to review Moderna's application for an mRNA flu vaccine, while SpaceX's Super Heavy booster successfully completed cryogenic proof testing. Meanwhile, Democratic governors announced a boycott of a White House dinner, and a potential government shutdown loomed, threatening airport delays.
The FDA's decision regarding Moderna's flu vaccine was revealed Tuesday, according to Ars Technica. The company expressed surprise at the rejection. This move comes amid what Ars Technica describes as "hostility toward vaccines—and mRNA vaccines in particular—from an agency overseen by the fervent anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr." Moderna stated in a news release that they were "blindsided" by the FDA's decision.
In the realm of space exploration, SpaceX's upgraded Super Heavy booster completed cryogenic proof testing, a critical step before its next Starship flight. SpaceX announced the milestone on social media Tuesday, stating that the multi-day campaign tested the booster's redesigned propellant systems and structural strength. The 237-foot-tall booster underwent testing at Starbase, Texas, after being transported from its factory to Masseys Test Site. This successful test clears a hurdle that previously led to the destruction of a booster, according to Ars Technica.
Political tensions also escalated as several Democratic governors announced their intention to boycott a White House dinner. The decision, reported by Time, stems from reports that President Donald Trump plans to exclude Gov. Jared Polis of Colorado and Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland from the event. The Democratic Governors Association (DGA) framed the move as a show of unity, stating, "If the reports are true, that not all Governors are invited to these events, which have historically been productive and bipartisan opportunities for collaboration, we will not be attending the White House dinner this year."
Adding to the week's challenges, a potential government shutdown threatens to disrupt air travel. As Congress approached a funding deadline, lawmakers warned of potential consequences, particularly for those traveling. According to Time, the acting head of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated that a protracted Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown would mean most TSA officers would remain on the job, unpaid. "A lack of funding and predictability of resourcing will pose significant challenges to our ability to deliver transportation security with the level of excellence we expect and Americans deserve," said Ha Nguyen McNeill, the acting TSA administrator.
Finally, research highlighted in Nature News discussed immune cells in fruit flies' brains.
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