That only shows that Kubuntu/Ubuntu is not ready for LTS. You don't decide that you will provide Long Term Support at the exact same time as one of the most used widows manager gets a major version change. What are they thinking? They should wait and make 8.10 the next LTS. At that time kubuntu will be able to use KDE4 and it will be well supported.
"I'm wondering if these robots could be used for the ISS assembly/maintenance, minimizing crew EVAs while maximizing assembly time and hopefully reducing costs."
Robotics repairs of ISS is already in the plans, in order to minimize crew EVA time. The SSRMS (Space Station Remote Manipulator System aka Canadarm2) is scheduled to receive a "hand", the SPDM (Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator). SPDM is designed to be able to carry replacement parts to most external locations of ISS and swap them in place of a defective part. The robotic system is controlled remotely by the crew from inside ISS. The ETA for the launch of SPDM was 2005. That might have changed now that the shuttles are grounded.
The position of "technical manager" is more appropriate for you. It's the perfect way to add technical knowledge to management.
It won't threaten the other managers as much because you are not competing directly with them. In fact they usually welcome the addition of a technical manager, it relieves them of the technical responsibilities.
It will be more interesting for you than PM because there is only technical stuff to deal with, and none of the "management" stuff that requires an entirely set of logical tools and morals.
Finally, it will be an easier introduction to the world of management because there will be less to learn since you are staying in your field.
If later you are still interested in pure management (why?!), the position of technical manager is a perfect stepping stone.
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That only shows that Kubuntu/Ubuntu is not ready for LTS. You don't decide that you will provide Long Term Support at the exact same time as one of the most used widows manager gets a major version change. What are they thinking? They should wait and make 8.10 the next LTS. At that time kubuntu will be able to use KDE4 and it will be well supported.
"I'm wondering if these robots could be used for the ISS assembly/maintenance, minimizing crew EVAs while maximizing assembly time and hopefully reducing costs."
Robotics repairs of ISS is already in the plans, in order to minimize crew EVA time. The SSRMS (Space Station Remote Manipulator System aka Canadarm2) is scheduled to receive a "hand", the SPDM (Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator). SPDM is designed to be able to carry replacement parts to most external locations of ISS and swap them in place of a defective part. The robotic system is controlled remotely by the crew from inside ISS. The ETA for the launch of SPDM was 2005. That might have changed now that the shuttles are grounded.
For more info on SPDM from the Canadian Space Agency: Dextre (Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator)
The position of "technical manager" is more appropriate for you. It's the perfect way to add technical knowledge to management.
It won't threaten the other managers as much because you are not competing directly with them. In fact they usually welcome the addition of a technical manager, it relieves them of the technical responsibilities.
It will be more interesting for you than PM because there is only technical stuff to deal with, and none of the "management" stuff that requires an entirely set of logical tools and morals.
Finally, it will be an easier introduction to the world of management because there will be less to learn since you are staying in your field.
If later you are still interested in pure management (why?!), the position of technical manager is a perfect stepping stone.
So, what are you waiting for?