Computer science enrollment at University of California campuses experienced a surprising drop this fall, coinciding with departures at Elon Musk's xAI and NASA's efforts to prepare for the Artemis II mission. These events, along with developments in fashion tech and musical instrument innovation, highlight the dynamic shifts across various sectors.
According to reporting by the San Francisco Chronicle, computer science enrollment at UC campuses fell 6% this year after declining 3% in 2024. This occurred even as overall college enrollment climbed 2% nationally, according to January data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. The exception was UC San Diego, which added a dedicated AI major this fall. This trend may be linked to fewer CS grads finding work out of college, but it could also signal a broader shift.
Meanwhile, at xAI, Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company, several engineers and co-founders announced their departures. The Verge reported that at least 11 engineers and two co-founders were leaving the company following the announcement that SpaceX was acquiring xAI. Some departures were attributed to a desire to start new ventures, while others cited concerns about the company's disregard for safety, according to sources who spoke to The Verge.
In other tech news, Alta, the company behind a "Clueless"-inspired fashion app, is integrating styling tools into websites through a partnership with brand Public School. Last year, Alta raised $11 million in a round led by Menlo Ventures, allowing users to create digital closets and virtually try on clothes.
Elsewhere, Georgia Tech announced the finalists in its annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition. For 28 years, the school has invited inventors to submit new instrument designs, with the winner receiving $10,000 in prizes.
Finally, NASA is working to resolve issues with its Space Launch System rocket before the Artemis III mission, which is slated to be the first crewed mission to land on the Moon since the Apollo program. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency is looking at ways to prevent the fueling problems plaguing the rocket before the Artemis III mission. As for Artemis II, NASA is preparing for a second countdown rehearsal as soon as next week to confirm whether technicians have resolved a hydrogen fuel leak.
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