What Happened This Year 2009
Historical Events from This Year 2009
NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery Launches STS-128
NASA's Space Shuttle Discovery lifted off on mission STS-128, marking another significant milestone in the assembly and operation of the International Space Station (ISS). The launch took place from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission's primary objectives included delivering supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments to the ISS, as well as bringing back the previous crew. STS-128 was notably the first shuttle mission to utilize the new advanced equipment designed for greater efficiency in space operations.
Continue ReadingHelicopter Crash Claims Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy
A helicopter carrying Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, crashed near Rudrakonda Hill, leading to fatalities. The aircraft disappeared from radar during a flight from Hyderabad to Kurnool. Search efforts were initiated quickly, as concerns over the Chief Minister's safety intensified.
Continue ReadingSuperFerry 9 Sinks Near Zamboanga Peninsula
The ro-ro ferry SuperFerry 9, carrying 971 individuals, sank off the Zamboanga Peninsula in the Philippines. During the incident, all but ten passengers were rescued, showcasing the efforts of nearby vessels and rescue teams. The ferry faced critical challenges amid adverse weather conditions, resulting in its tragic sinking in the neutral waters.
Continue ReadingInauguration of Dubai Metro Network
The Dubai Metro, the first urban train network in the Arabian Peninsula, was ceremonially inaugurated as a significant public transportation advancement for the city. The event took place at the newly built stations with extensive fanfare, highlighting Dubai's commitment to modern infrastructure. The opening featured various dignitaries and entertainers, showcasing the blend of tradition and innovation that Dubai represents. This ambitious project aimed to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a sustainable transit solution for residents and visitors alike.
Continue ReadingSA Airlink Flight 8911 Crashes Near Durban
SA Airlink Flight 8911, a merchant jet, crashed near Durban International Airport during approach due to a suspected mechanical failure. The incident resulted in the death of the captain, while the first officer and two cabin crew members sustained various injuries. The aircraft, a Jetstream 41, was carrying passengers as part of its routine service. The accident raised significant concerns regarding aircraft safety procedures and led to investigations into the airline's maintenance practices.
Continue ReadingG20 Summit Convenes in Pittsburgh, PA
Leaders from the world's largest economies gathered in Pittsburgh to discuss critical global economic issues, focusing on reforming financial institutions and enhancing policies to foster sustainable growth. Notable attendees included U.S. President Barack Obama, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The summit, held in the context of the 2008 financial crisis, aimed to stabilize the global economy and prevent future meltdowns. It marked the first time the G20 met at the leaders' level, signifying the importance of broader international cooperation.
Continue ReadingDevastating Typhoon Ketsana Strikes Southeast Asia
Typhoon Ketsana, also referred to as Typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines, made landfall in the region, unleashing torrential rain and causing severe flooding across the Philippines, Vietnam, and neighboring countries. The storm notably affected Manila, leading to one of the worst flooding disasters in Philippine history, displacing thousands and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and homes. The typhoon resulted in severe fatalities, with at least 700 reported across all impacted countries, affecting communities and prompting international humanitarian assistance.
Continue ReadingGuinea junta violently dispels protest rally
Guinea's military junta unleashed violence on a protest rally, resulting in approximately 1,400 casualties through killings and injuries. The rally was organized to demand an end to the junta’s rule and was attended by thousands of people. The forces deployed used live ammunition and brutal repression to scatter the crowd at a sports stadium in Conakry, raising significant alarm among international observers regarding human rights violations. The junta's reaction further heightened tensions in the nation, which was already grappling with political unrest and calls for democratic governance.
Continue ReadingSamoa Earthquake Triggers Devastating Tsunami
An 8.1 Mw earthquake struck near Samoa, generating a tsunami that devastated coastal settlements in American Samoa and Samoa. Over 189 lives were lost, and hundreds more were injured. This natural disaster occurred in the early morning hours, with waves reaching heights of up to 15 feet. The quake, centered about 120 kilometers southwest of Apia, prompted immediate rescue efforts due to the widespread destruction across the islands.
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