NRO Director Unveils Upgraded Monitoring Features with Latest Fleet of SpaceX-Manufactured Reconnaissance Satellites

### The Future of Satellite Surveillance: How SpaceX and the NRO Are Transforming the Field

In recent times, the arena of satellite surveillance has experienced a groundbreaking transformation, propelled by technological advancements and the declining costs associated with satellite launches. Leading this evolution is the collaboration between SpaceX and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), the spy satellite agency of the U.S. government. Together, they are developing a new generation of satellites that are set to change the way the U.S. observes global threats and adversaries.

#### A New Era of Satellite Surveillance

Chris Scolese, the NRO director and a former NASA engineer, has clearly stated that the agency is transitioning to a new strategy for satellite surveillance. “You can’t hide, because we’re constantly looking,” Scolese remarked, underlining the NRO’s dedication to perpetual vigilance. This shift is primarily facilitated by SpaceX’s capability to mass-manufacture small, economical satellites, a notable shift from the NRO’s traditional approach of relying on a limited number of large, expensive satellites.

Traditionally, the NRO relied on a small fleet of large satellites, some comparable in size to school buses, which offered high-resolution imagery of critical regions. Nonetheless, these satellites could only traverse specific locations a few times daily, thus limiting their provision of real-time intelligence. The new “proliferated architecture” consisting of smaller satellites, developed by SpaceX, aims to overcome this limitation by significantly boosting the number of satellites in orbit.

#### The Role of SpaceX and Starlink

SpaceX, recognized for its Starlink satellite constellation that delivers global internet access, has utilized its manufacturing prowess to aid the NRO’s mission. To date, over 80 of these SpaceX-produced satellites have been launched on Falcon 9 rockets, with many more expected. Each of these satellites, weighing under a ton, is engineered to deliver high-resolution imagery at a considerably faster pace compared to their predecessors.

This collaboration is part of a wider trend within the U.S. defense and intelligence sectors, where entities like the Pentagon’s Space Development Agency and the U.S. Space Force are also pursuing the deployment of constellations comprising small satellites. These satellites will not only furnish imagery but will also track missiles and provide broadband communication for military operations.

#### The Benefits of a Proliferated Architecture

One of the most prominent benefits of this innovative approach is the enhanced ability to capture images more frequently of crucial locations. “We need to have persistence or fast revisit,” Scolese elaborated. By launching numerous satellites, the NRO can guarantee that a satellite is consistently observing an area of interest within a reasonable timeframe. This ongoing surveillance capability is essential for monitoring foreign military bases, missile locations, and other strategic sites.

Furthermore, the smaller dimensions and reduced expenses of these satellites render them less susceptible to attacks. Previously, large, pricey satellites were deemed “big juicy targets” for adversaries such as Russia or China. However, a proliferated constellation is significantly more challenging to disable, offering a level of resilience previously unattainable.

#### The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

As hundreds of satellites orbit, the volume of data being gathered presents new challenges. “Once you go to a proliferated architecture and you’re going from a few satellites to tens of satellites to now hundreds of satellites, you have to change a lot of things,” Scolese indicated. To handle this data, the NRO is harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to automate the analysis of satellite imagery.

These innovations will enable the NRO to provide actionable intelligence to users throughout the federal government in seconds, rather than minutes or hours. This quick response capability is vital in a landscape where threats can appear and evolve rapidly.

#### The Future of Satellite Surveillance

The NRO’s partnership with SpaceX is merely the beginning. By the close of 2024, the NRO anticipates having at least 100 of these new satellites in orbit, with additional launches slated through 2028. The agency is also investigating emerging technologies, such as quantum remote sensing, to further bolster its capabilities in detecting and monitoring global threats.

Quantum sensing, which is based on quantum physics principles, could offer unprecedented accuracy in identifying concealed objects or activities. “You can’t really hide from fundamental physics,” Scolese emphasized, showcasing the potential of this innovative technology to counteract attempts by adversaries to obscure their actions.

#### Conclusion

The collaboration between SpaceX and the NRO signifies a pivotal shift in the way the U.S. engages in satellite surveillance. By capitalizing on SpaceX’s proficiency in mass-producing small, cost-efficient satellites, the NRO is establishing a network poised to deliver continuous, real-time intelligence to U.S. defense and intelligence agencies. This novel strategy not only enhances the U.S.’s capacity to observe global threats but also renders its satellite infrastructure more robust and adaptable.

Court Determines Google Not Required to Reimburse Victims of Gift Card Frauds

### Google Play Gift Card Scams: An Increasing Issue and Legal Challenges

In recent times, gift card scams have emerged as a considerable problem, especially as scammers increasingly focus on victims from widely used platforms like Google Play. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that a significant share of gift card scams targets Google Play users, leading to millions of dollars being stolen by fraudsters. A recent lawsuit has brought this matter to public attention, raising concerns over the accountability of tech firms like Google in deterring these scams and compensating affected individuals.

#### The Growth of Google Play Gift Card Scams

Typically, gift card scams involve con artists deceiving victims into buying gift cards and transmitting their codes to the fraudsters, who subsequently redeem the cards for products or services. These scams often operate under the pretense of government grants, technical support, or even fabricated romantic links. From 2018 to 2021, FTC data revealed that scams involving Google Play gift cards comprised 20% of all reported gift card fraud, resulting in losses exceeding $17 million.

One reason fraudsters favor Google Play gift cards is their convenient use and the rapid redemption for digital products, which complicates the tracking of funds after the scam is executed. Google earns a commission ranging from 15 to 30 percent on purchases made using these gift cards, leading to criticism that the company benefits from fraudulent transactions without providing refunds to victims.

#### The Legal Challenge: May v. Google

In 2021, Judy May, a victim of a Google Play gift card scam, initiated a class-action lawsuit against Google. May had been deceived into buying $1,000 worth of Google Play gift cards after being told by scammers that she qualified for a government grant. She was instructed to send the gift card codes for “upfront costs” associated with the grant, only to discover later that it was a scam. When she reached out to Google for a refund, the company rejected her request, citing its terms of service.

May’s lawsuit contended that Google was aware that its gift cards were commonly exploited by scammers and that the company should have taken more steps to inform consumers. Additionally, she argued that Google possessed the technology to monitor the transactions and potentially avert the fraud but opted not to intervene. The lawsuit sought significant damages for what May characterized as “unfair practices” by Google.

#### The Court’s Decision

On November 4, 2024, federal Judge Beth Freeman predominantly sided with Google, allowing the company’s request to dismiss most allegations in the lawsuit. Freeman decided that Google bore no liability for the losses as the company did not persuade May to buy the gift cards—the scammers did. The judge also emphasized that May had not utilized the gift cards “as intended,” meaning they were meant for acquiring goods and services, not transferring money to third parties.

Freeman additionally ruled that Google had no obligation to reimburse May or other scam victims, referencing comparable policies from retailers such as Target and Walmart, which also deny refunds for gift card scams. Furthermore, the judge concluded that May’s assertion that Google could have used its technology to identify the scam was inadequate, as she failed to demonstrate that Google had employed such technology at the time of her transaction.

While Freeman permitted May to modify some of her claims within 45 days, the judge dismissed a crucial claim requesting triple damages, stating that May had not established a likelihood of being scammed again, considering her enhanced awareness of such frauds.

#### The Wider Implications

This case underscores the escalating challenge of gift card scams and raises critical questions regarding tech companies’ roles in fraud prevention. Although Google is not legally bound to refund victims under existing regulations, the case has ignited discussions about whether firms profiting from gift card sales should assume greater responsibility for safeguarding consumers.

Critics assert that Google and similar companies could enhance user awareness about prevalent scams by placing clear warnings on gift cards or employing more advanced fraud detection systems. They also highlight Google’s technical ability to track gift card transactions and potentially identify suspicious activity, but the company has yet to take such measures.

Conversely, corporations like Google maintain that they are not accountable for third-party scams and that providing refunds could set a challenging precedent. They also note that other retailers have similar policies regarding gift card fraud, suggesting that this issue spans the entire industry rather than being unique to Google.

#### What Steps Can Consumers Take?

Given the frequency of gift card scams, consumers must remain cautious when buying and utilizing gift cards. Here are several suggestions to avoid becoming a target of these scams:

1. **Be Wary of Unexpected Requests**: If someone requests payment via gift card—be it for a government grant, technical assistance, or a romantic partner—it’s likely a scam.

2. **Confirm the Identity**: If you receive communication from someone claiming to represent a government agency or

“Documentary Captures the Quest for Shackleton’s Endurance Shipwreck”

### The Remarkable Legend of Shackleton’s *Endurance* and Its Rediscovery: A Fresh NatGeo Documentary

The saga of *Endurance*, the ill-fated vessel of renowned Arctic explorer Ernest Shackleton, has enthralled audiences for more than a hundred years. Shackleton’s 1914 mission to navigate Antarctica ended tragically when his ship became trapped in ice and ultimately sank. Nonetheless, the story of survival, determination, and leadership that ensued has attained legendary status. A new National Geographic documentary, helmed by Oscar-winning directors Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi (*Free Solo*), revives this astonishing tale once more. The documentary, named *Endurance*, is currently available for streaming on Disney+.

#### An Interwoven Narrative Structure

*Endurance* unfolds two connected tales: Shackleton’s arduous 1914 mission and the 2022 finding of the shipwreck, which had lain beneath Antarctic ice for nearly 107 years. The documentary skillfully intertwines these two narratives, presenting viewers with a distinctive viewpoint on both the historical occurrences and the contemporary pursuit to uncover the ship.

As Vasarhelyi notes, Shackleton’s story has long been a source of fascination for her and Chin. “I believe the Shackleton narrative is central to the essence of our films,” she mentioned in a conversation with Ars Technica. “It’s the ultimate human survival story. It truly reflects having bold goals and aspirations.” The discovery of the wreck in 2022 offered the ideal chance to revisit the tale with renewed insights, employing cutting-edge filmmaking methods and advanced technologies.

#### The Shackleton Expedition: A Journey of Survival

Shackleton’s mission set off from Plymouth on August 6, 1914, aiming to be the first group to cross the Antarctic continent. Yet, by January 1915, the *Endurance* was ensnared in the drifting ice of the Weddell Sea. Despite relentless efforts, Shackleton and his crew had to remain patient for the ice to break, a lengthy ordeal lasting nearly 10 months. Throughout this period, the crew faced severe cold, and by October 1915, the vessel was irretrievable. Shackleton instructed his men to vacate the ship and establish camp on the ice.

The *Endurance* ultimately succumbed on November 21, 1915, crushed by the overwhelming forces of the ice. Shackleton and his crew found themselves marooned, yet their adventure was far from finished. After months adrift on ice floes, the crew launched lifeboats and reached Elephant Island. Shackleton and five of his men then embarked on a bold 720-mile trek to South Georgia in search of aid. Incredibly, Shackleton returned to rescue his entire team in August 1916, with no lives lost.

#### The Rediscovery of *Endurance*

The wreck of the *Endurance* eluded discovery for more than a century, despite repeated efforts to find it. Shackleton’s navigator, Frank Worsley, had diligently recorded the ship’s coordinates upon its sinking, but the reliability of his instruments raised challenges for the search.

In February 2022, the Endurance22 expedition, organized by the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, embarked on a mission to locate the wreck. Employing state-of-the-art submersibles and sonar technology, the team scoured the ocean floor for weeks. At the last possible moment, they found the wreck lying 3,008 meters below the surface, about four miles south of its last known location. Remarkably, the ship was discovered in immaculate condition, preserved by the frigid waters and absence of wood-eating microbes.

#### Reviving History

Chin and Vasarhelyi encountered the challenge of recreating Shackleton’s narrative in a manner that would resonate with contemporary viewers. They relied extensively on the original images and footage captured by *Endurance*’s photographer, Frank Hurley. Hurley’s visuals, including his 1919 documentary *South*, offered invaluable pictorial records of the expedition. The filmmakers supplemented this with additional footage from various early 20th-century polar expeditions.

In a daring initiative, the directors persuaded the British Film Institute (BFI) to permit them to apply color treatment to some of Hurley’s footage. “The BFI had taken exceptional care of the footage and been great stewards of it, but they had also been very firm about never altering the color,” Vasarhelyi explained. The color enhancement introduced a new dimension of drama and immediacy to the historical footage, enabling viewers to connect more profoundly with the narrative.

For aspects of the Shackleton story that Hurley wasn’t able to capture—like the final rescue operation—the filmmakers conducted re-enactments. These scenes were shot on location in Iceland and on sound stages in Los Angeles. The crew contended with challenging conditions, including icy temperatures and the difficulties of constructing replica boats and acquiring period-specific costumes. Burberry