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NASA, at the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), developed and operates a unique high precision lightning location system to provide lightning related weather warnings. These warnings are used to stop lightning-sensitive operations such as space vehicle launches and ground operations where equipment and personnel are at risk. The data is provided to the Range Weather Operations [45th Weather Squadron, U. S. Air Force (USAF)] where it is used with other meteorological data to issue weather advisories and warnings for Cape Canaveral Air Station (CCAS) and KSC operations. This system, called Lightning Detection and Ranging (LDAR), provides users with a graphical display in three dimensions of 66 MHz radio frequency events generated by lightning processes. The locations of these events provide a sound basis for the prediction of lightning hazards. NASA and Global Atmospherics, Inc. are developing a new system that will replace the unique LDAR components with commercially available and maintainable components having improved capabilities. These components will be phased in to ensure full continuity and access to this important warning technology. These LDAR systems are expected to eventually be available for installation and use by the public at specialized facilities, such as airports, and for general weather warnings via the National Weather Service (NWS) or television broadcast. The NWS in Melbourne has had access to real-time LDAR data since 1993 on an experimental basis. This use of LDAR has shown promise for the improvement of aviation forecasts and severe weather warnings. More so, it has opened the door to investigate the feasibility of issuing lightning-related public advisories. The success of its early use suggests that this technology may improve safety and potentially save lives, therefore constituting a significant benefit to the public. This paper describes the LDR system, the plans and progress of these upgrades, and the potential benefits of its use.

1Readings from Modern Mexican Authors

By Frederick Starr

Starr visited Mexico in 1894 and became acquainted with a wide array of contemporary writers. This work is a compendium of 29 of those writers, their short biographies, and extracts of their writings which Starr believed represent their best work. Summary by Mario Pineda

2Strange Peoples

By Frederick Starr

Starr presents a compendium of descriptions from several peoples (races) around the world as it was in the late XIX century. - Summary by Mario Pineda

Starr, being an anthropologist and a historian, visited Mexico extensively. As he wrote this book, a highly disruptive, deadly revolution was taking place across the nation, so Starr attempts to explain the circumstances leading to that event. He begins with the Centennial of Independence, then delves into the country's history starting with the Aztecs, and up to present day (1914). The point of view from both countries protagonists is also discussed as historic events are described. He states that "the US and Mexico are different, yet they are neighbors.", and ends with "They should be friends." - Summary by Mario Pineda

4In Indian Mexico

By Frederick Starr

In this work, Starr delves into the anthropological side of Mexico's Natives ("Indians") at the end of the XIX century. Researched and written at the height of the Díaz's regime, Starr's travels were full of interesting facts and twists. His goal of measuring multiple individuals, taking their pictures, and making plaster figures resembling the natives was mostly accomplished, thus providing us with a non-contestable glimpse of what was to be an Indian in Mexico over a century ago. - Summary by Mario Pineda

5American Indians

By Frederick Starr

School students is Starr's intended audience of this work. The easy-to-read stories discuss and describe a wide range of topics such as food, money exchange, dances, hunting, dress, war, burials. Over two-dozen North American tribes are reviewed in the book. - Summary by Mario Pineda

6Truth About the Congo

By Frederick Starr

After traveling extensively through Mexico and other countries, Starr spent a year in Congo during the peak of European colonization. He candidly shares his experiences and observations, exploring the culture, customs, and struggles of the natives. Through experience and inquisitive explorations, he pinpoints personal encounters and narratives, addressing issues such as cruelty and the complexities of colonial Africa. Please note that the “n-word” is present in several sections. - Summary by Mario Pineda