SpaceX is set to launch a rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Saturday, April 6, carrying Starlink satellites. The launch is scheduled for 7:26 p.m. and should be visible in southern Arizona. After launch, residents may see the rocket trail and several dots in the sky, which are the satellites opening their solar panels. This will be the sixth flight for the first-stage booster, and SpaceX plans for the first stage to land on a droneship in the Pacific Ocean.
Southern Arizona residents witnessed a spectacular view of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch carrying 22 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base, causing concern among some observers. The satellites' deployment was visible as dots in the sky as they opened their solar panels, but they will soon become almost invisible once in orbit.
Southern Arizonans are experiencing persistent coughs this winter due to an uptick in respiratory illnesses, including COVID, flu, and colds circulating simultaneously. Low vaccination levels have increased the likelihood of getting sick, and doctors advise seeking medical help if a cough lasts beyond three weeks. Common causes include post nasal drip, allergies, and even side effects of certain medications. If the cough persists for two months or more, it's considered chronic and requires medical attention. Honey is recommended as a natural cough suppressant, and individuals with severe symptoms should seek testing for conditions like Valley Fever.
Election results are being reported from across southern Arizona, including races for Tucson Mayor and City Council. Regina Romero is leading with 60.81% of the vote for Mayor, while Lane Santa Cruz and Paul Cunningham are leading in their respective City Council wards. Several propositions are also being decided, with some passing and others failing. Official certification of the results is pending.
Gas prices in Southern Arizona have spiked due to a global cut in oil and an increase in demand. Refineries in Texas and New Mexico went down for maintenance, which hurt the local supply. Pima County, specifically Tucson, is paying 50 cents more per gallon than other areas in Southern Arizona due to being the biggest consumer of gas in those areas. Gas prices are expected to stay at this level for the foreseeable future due to the upcoming switch to the more expensive summer blend of gasoline and increased demand.
