Friday☕️

24 Jan 2025 — 6 min read

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Yesterday, John Ratcliffe was sworn in as the 25th Director of the CIA, taking over the most powerful intelligence agency on Earth. Ratcliffe, who previously served as the Director of National Intelligence during President Trump’s first term, brings experience in overseeing the broader U.S. intelligence community. The CIA’s primary mission is to protect U.S. national security by gathering human intelligence (HUMINT) through covert agents, informants, advanced technology, and surveillance tools. It analyzes this information to provide reports that guide the President and other leaders in making decisions on national security, foreign policy, and defense.

The CIA also conducts covert operations overseas to combat threats such as terrorism, hostile regimes, and cyber warfare. It plays a critical role in counterintelligence, working to identify and stop foreign governments from spying on the U.S. Additionally, the agency monitors global threats like weapons proliferation, political instability, and emerging technologies, ensuring the U.S. stays ahead of adversaries. While the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) focuses on military intelligence, the CIA leads foreign human intelligence (HUMINT) and secret operations, making it an essential pillar of America’s security and defense strategy.

Economics & Markets:

Geopolitics & Conflicts:

Yesterday, Ukrainian forces launched a drone strike on the Rosneft oil refinery in Russia, causing a massive explosion and igniting a fire. Thick plumes of smoke were visible from miles away, highlighting the scale of the damage. The strike is part of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to target key Russian energy infrastructure, disrupting operations critical to fueling Moscow’s military activities.

Yesterday, U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) announced an expanded military deployment to the southern border under directives from President Trump. This includes the addition of 1,500 active-duty troops to support the 2,200 already stationed there. These forces are currently working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to enhance border security by providing surveillance, intelligence, and logistical support.

This deployment is part of President Trump’s ongoing border strategy, which includes using military resources to construct barriers and strengthen enforcement efforts. Military engineers and aerial units are actively involved, with the goal of deterring illegal crossings and improving border management. NORTHCOM has also stated that up to 10,000 additional troops could be deployed if the situation requires further action.

Environment & Weather:

Today, a bomb cyclone, known as Storm Éowyn, will hit Ireland and the UK, bringing extremely strong winds of up to 100 mph. This rapidly intensifying storm is set to impact Northern Ireland and Scotland the most, causing a high risk of fallen trees, power outages, and dangerous travel conditions.

With schools closing and major travel disruptions expected, authorities are urging everyone to stay indoors, secure loose outdoor items, and prepare for possible power cuts. The storm is expected to cause serious disruptions throughout the day before moving on by the evening.

Space:

Yesterday, China conducted two notable space launches. The first launch occurred at 05:14 UTC from Launch Complex 9A at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 6A rocket. This mission, named G60 Polar Group 04, deployed multiple satellites into polar orbit. These satellites are part of the G60 constellation, a project managed by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST). The constellation aims to establish a vast communication network in low Earth orbit, with plans to deploy over 1,200 satellites by 2027.
Later that day, at 15:30 UTC, a Long March 3B/E rocket lifted off from Launch Complex 2 at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. The payload for this mission has not been disclosed, but the rocket is typically used to launch communication satellites or experimental payloads into geostationary transfer orbit. The mission was organized by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the country’s primary space organization. Both launches showcase China’s steady progression in expanding its satellite infrastructure and its ambition to enhance its presence in the global space sector.

Science & Technology:

Yesterday, Tesla introduced an updated version of the Model Y for the U.S., Canada, and Europe. This new model, priced at $59,990 in the U.S., comes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software included as standard, which previously cost an extra $8,000. It also features a redesigned look, improved interior, and an extended driving range of 320 miles (515 km). Deliveries are set to begin in March 2025.

The Model Y has been a key driver of Tesla’s success, becoming the world’s best-selling car in 2023. While sales slowed last year due to growing competition and weaker EV demand, Tesla hopes this upgraded version will help it maintain its edge. Despite the increasing competition, Tesla remains the leading automaker by market cap and continues to dominate the EV market globally.

Earth Intelligence Update:

New data updates are now live on the Earth Intelligence System. Recently, Spaceport and Conflict intelligence has been lacking but will soon improve. We aim to integrate real time Spaceport intelligence next month with additional orbital tracking capabilities for satellite tracking and awareness.
Additionally, satellite intelligence for geospatial analysis is still being integrated and aiming for completion by next quarter. This will aim to provide real-time satellite intelligence to analyze global events like weather and conflicts from satellite providers in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
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