10 Good Things We Might Have Missed While On Lockdown

Even now, there are plenty of reasons to be cheerful

- Paola Navarette

Even though the coronavirus disease is spreading around the world, there have been moments of positivity and light relief to get us through.

Here are some of the stories raising a smile during these unprecedented times.

1. Diwata-1 microsatellite reenters Earth, ends four-year space mission

The first Filipino-built satellite has finally reentered the Earth’s atmosphere, officially ending its mission that has gone way beyond its original life expectancy. Initially expected to stay in orbit only for two years, Diwata-1 was launched into space in March 2016. It has stayed in orbit for four years, sending back satellite images used for assessing impact of disasters, monitoring vegetation and bodies of water, and observing weather patterns.

2. Two new variably shaped and elongate glassine spined sea star species were discovered in the Philippines

The sea stars scientifically named as Hyalinothrix diversus Mah and Fujita, 2020 and Hyalinothrix vitrispinum Mah and Fujita, 2020 were recorded off Balut Island at depths of 150 to 250 meters, the National Museum announced on Monday.

3. Intramuros admin takes Filipinos on virtual tour of arts, culture collection without leaving home