Truly revolutionary stuff.

Happening in the World: NASA’s Perseverance Rover, which landed on Mars more than two weeks ago in search of signs of life, has deployed its SuperCam instrument on the planet for the first time. This light probe can identify rocks at a distance and includes a microphone that allows the listener to hear what the laser sounds like, and clue scientists into the nature of Mars’s surface 146 million miles away (BBC). 

Happening in the US: The United States Congress approved a $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package on Wednesday. The legislation is designed to deliver emergency aid through new federal spending and increases in anti-poverty programs for struggling American families amid the pandemic (Washington Post).

Happening in NYC: New York Governor Cuomo announced on Wednesday that starting March 19, indoor dining capacity will be increased to 50% in New York City. The rolling back of some coronavirus safety restrictions comes amid a continued decline of COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates in the state (NYT).

Happening in Our Community: Calling all anxious network-ees! Connect with Columbia Alumni for the Graduate Student Roundtable on all things networking and postgraduate life this Friday, March 12 from 10-11 am. Register here. 

Cover Song of the Week: “I Love Rock And Roll” by Joan Jett And The Blackhearts (originally by The Arrows)

congress! via Wikimedia Commons