Topic: Satellite Technology

The conversation shifts to the broader global context of wildfires in Canada and Greece, with a focus on proposed technological solutions. Governor Josh Green suggests that satellite technology and satellite phones could have improved alerts in Lahaina. The hosts mock the idea that new energy-intensive water production technologies are the necessary response to isolated landmasses facing climate-related disasters.

Elon Musk's Starlink service is being considered for deployment in Iran to bypass government internet shutdowns during civil unrest. While the Iranian government views outside internet as a threat, experts suggest that smuggling the pizza-box-sized satellite kits into the country is feasible despite the regime's ban on satellite dishes.

Apple unveiled the iPhone 14, featuring a new Emergency SOS via satellite capability for users in remote areas. The technology requires the user to be outdoors with a clear view of the sky and uses a specialized app to help point the device toward a satellite. While marketed as a major breakthrough, critics note that it only supports short text messages and takes significant time to transmit data.

A startup called Swarm Technologies launched four tiny "Space Bee" satellites for internet connectivity despite being denied a license by the FCC. The agency, which oversees satellite broadcasts and launches, is investigating the unauthorized deployment, which was tracked by amateur radio operators.

The Federal Aviation Administration's program to replace air traffic control with satellite technology is reportedly delayed due to software issues at Raytheon. The hosts characterize the billion-dollar project as a way to funnel money to the military-industrial complex without achieving completion until at least 2014.