Cool Websites and Tools [December 30th 2012]

Cool Websites and Tools [December 30th 2012]: "Check out some of the latest MakeUseOf discoveries. Most of the listed websites are FREE or come with a decent free account option. If you want to have similar cool website round-ups delivered to your daily email, subscribe here."

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TaskOne turns the iPhone into a legitimate pocket knife

TaskOne turns the iPhone into a legitimate pocket knife: "The smartphone is already a modern-day multi-tool, combining communications, entertainment, information access and all kinds of personalized content. But while the smartphone can multitask in the virtual world, it can't do quite as much back in the physical world. The TaskOne iPhone case changes that, giving Apple's smartphone the functionality of an old-school Swiss Army pocket knife. Like the Morgan E Pulse, it seamlessly blends cutting edge technology with retro-inspired design."

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64,000 mph asteroid was fastest on record

64,000 mph asteroid was fastest on record: "At about 14:51 GMT on April 22, 2012, a fireball was seen throughout the western United States, accompanied by a loud booming sound heard over much of California's Sierra Nevada mountains around Lake Tahoe. Scientists have now carried out a thorough analysis of the meteorite and found that it was the fastest meteor ever recorded at 28.6 km/s (64000 mph)."

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Hyundai Connectivity Concept turns your car into a rolling smartphone

Hyundai Connectivity Concept turns your car into a rolling smartphone: "Car makers have been slowly but surely sucking content off your phone and into your vehicle. With the help of a smartphone, you can now access navigation, music, text messaging and other phone functions from the driver and/or passenger seat. The Hyundai Connectivity Concept takes things a step farther, wirelessly transferring all of the phone's content to the car's touchscreen display and adding other wireless functions."

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Fully Automatic FAL! - YouTube

Fully Automatic FAL! - YouTube: ""

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10 Great Pilots | History of Flight | Air & Space Magazine

10 Great Pilots | History of Flight | Air & Space Magazine: "WHEN WE ASSEMBLED THE FOLLOWING LISTS OF GREAT PILOTS (and the list of milestone flights that follows), we faced the same dilemma that Von Hardesty, a National Air and Space Museum aeronautics curator, faced as author of Great Aviators and Epic Flights (Hugh Lauter Levin Associates, Inc., 2003)."

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Evacuating the Injured | Military Aviation | Air & Space Magazine

Evacuating the Injured | Military Aviation | Air & Space Magazine: "After graduation from the Naval Academy and commissioning as a Marine Corps pilot, I went to flight school and selected the CH-46E Sea Knight out of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The CH-46 is the Marine Corps’ medium-lift assault support platform."

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The X-47 Ships Out | Military Aviation | Air & Space Magazine

The X-47 Ships Out | Military Aviation | Air & Space Magazine: "The U.S. Navy’s dream of a pilotless combat jet that can fly off an aircraft carrier, refuel in the air, complete its mission and then land safely back on the flat top has taken a couple of steps closer to reality."

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Pedal Power | Flight Today | Air & Space Magazine

Pedal Power | Flight Today | Air & Space Magazine: "t was difficult to take in all at once: Four giant Mylar-covered rotors the size of windmill blades rotated, fishing line winding around a spool plinked like an untuned toy harp, and a vast, spidery structure trembled with the effort of a madly pedaling figure at its center. The pedaling figure turned the spool that wound the fishing line that worked the pulleys that drove the rotor blades. Late in the afternoon of May 4, 2011, no one was breathing in the University of Maryland gym."

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Inside China's Secret Arsenal | Popular Science

Inside China's Secret Arsenal | Popular Science: "In a single generation, China has transformed itself from a largely agrarian country into a global manufacturing and trading powerhouse. China’s economy is 20 times bigger than it was two decades ago and is on track to surpass the United States’ as the world’s largest. But perhaps most startling has been the growth of China’s ambitious and increasingly powerful military"

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Q+A: Cody Wilson Of The Wiki Weapon Project On The 3-D Printed Future of Firearms | Popular Science

Q+A: Cody Wilson Of The Wiki Weapon Project On The 3-D Printed Future of Firearms | Popular Science: "While many call for tighter firearm restrictions in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy, the Wiki Weapon project believes technology is about to make such regulation irrelevant--and that that's a good thing."

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NASA's NEXT ion thruster clocks up continuous operation world record

NASA's NEXT ion thruster clocks up continuous operation world record: "NASA's Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) ion engine has set a new world record by clocking up 43,000 hours of continuous operation at NASA’s Glenn Research Center’s Electric Propulsion Laboratory. The seven-kilowatt thruster is intended to propel future NASA deep space probes on missions where chemical rockets aren't a practical option."

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Low-Cost Tools That Every Techie Needs

Low-Cost Tools That Every Techie Needs: "It’s been ten years since I took my first IT job, and in that time I’ve collected a bunch of tools that have proved invaluable to me in resolving issues with computers, hard disk drives, printers and other corporate hardware. While I work purely freelance these days, I still maintain a collection of devices and gadgets that can be used to assist with quickly resolving problems that might arise."

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Create Stunning Gorgeous Maps Of Any Location With Map To Image

Create Stunning Gorgeous Maps Of Any Location With Map To Image: "Create beautiful maps of your favorite places, then download high-resolution copies of them. Whether you want a water colour outline of the city you recently visited or a detailed grid of your hometown, CityTracking.org‘s Map To Image is a simple web-app allowing you to turn your favorite places into art."

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The Fire Bolt Stun Gun Flashlight - YouTube

The Fire Bolt Stun Gun Flashlight - YouTube: ""

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Stanford University researchers create peel-and-stick solar cells

Stanford University researchers create peel-and-stick solar cells: "Traditionally, thin-film solar cells are made with rigid glass substrates, limiting their potential applications. Flexible versions do exist, although they require special production techniques and/or materials. Now, however, scientists from Stanford University have created thin, flexible solar cells that are made from standard materials – and they can applied to just about any surface, like a sticker."

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Armadillo Aerospace has precision landings down pat

Armadillo Aerospace has precision landings down pat: "Armadillo Aerospace has taken some major strides with its FAA-approved suborbital rocket, the STIG-B. Despite encountering difficulties reaching design altitude during testing, the company appears to have mastered the landing side of the equation using a self-guided ramair parachute system. A flight on December 6 returned the rocket to within 55 meters (180 ft) of the intended recovery point."

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NASA puts Orion spacecraft's backup parachutes to the test

NASA puts Orion spacecraft's backup parachutes to the test: "With NASA's Orion spacecraft intended to carry crews to the moon, an asteroid and Mars, it will be taking human beings farther into space than ever before. Hopefully, it will also be bringing them back, with the distance of the return trips seeing the spacecraft picking up a lot of speed and reentering the Earth’s atmosphere faster than any previous spacecraft. In the latest in a series of tests that bring the spacecraft another step towards a planned first test flight in 2014, NASA has verified the capsule will safely make it back to terra firma even if one of its drogue parachutes fails to open."

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Top 10 concept vehicles of 2012

Top 10 concept vehicles of 2012: "Doomsday has passed without a gasp, so it looks like humanity still has a future. If the concept cars we saw during the past year are any indication, that future looks very bright. As we prepare to roll the calendars over to 2013, it's time to celebrate the finest concepts that 2012 bestowed upon the world. From voluptuous supercars, to green fuel misers, to the downright abstract and outlandish, it was a big year for concepts and design studies."

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Disposable Lighter Pyrotechnics - YouTube

Disposable Lighter Pyrotechnics - YouTube: ""

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Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo glides towards first powered flight

Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo glides towards first powered flight: "After returning to the air earlier this year following a nearly nine-month long break which saw the integration of rocket motor systems, Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo completed its 23rd guide flight this week. The significance of this flight is that it was the spaceplane’s first glide in powered flight configuration."

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MirrorCase – the covert (pervert?) photography accessory for iPhone 4/4S

MirrorCase – the covert (pervert?) photography accessory for iPhone 4/4S: "OK, so here's the imaginary mental conversation I'm having with the developer of the Mirrorcase for iPhone. Please read it in the style of Clarke and Dawe's brilliant "The Front Fell Off" sketch:"

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The Helmet That Can Save Football | Popular Science

The Helmet That Can Save Football | Popular Science: "Athletes in the U.S. suffer 3.8 million sports-related concussions each year. While helmet makers dither with small improvements, Swedish scientists have built something that could protect us all."

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Gizmag | New and Emerging Technology News

Gizmag | New and Emerging Technology News: "The idea of an automated farm has probably been around since rural electrification started in the early 20th century. Replacing back-breaking labor with robots has an obvious appeal, but so far cheap labor in many countries and the insistence of agriculture on being so darn rural has made automation limited in application."

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Induced "pacemaker" heart cells could take the place of man-made pacemakers

Induced "pacemaker" heart cells could take the place of man-made pacemakers: "Scientists at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute have successfully reprogrammed ordinary heart cells to become exact replicas of so-called “pacemaker” heart cells. Such replica cells could conceivably one day be used instead of electronic pacemakers, in patients with heart disease."

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Liquid metal electrical wires can be stretched without breaking

Liquid metal electrical wires can be stretched without breaking: "Things like earbud cords have a nasty way of getting hooked on things and breaking. Such incidences may become a lot less common, however, as scientists from North Carolina State University have created conductive wires that stay intact even when stretched up to eight times their regular length."

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New Zealand's W2 presents Romotow – the fold-out Swiss Army Caravan

New Zealand's W2 presents Romotow – the fold-out Swiss Army Caravan: "New Zealand architectural and interior design firm W2 has never designed a caravan before – and it shows. The Romotow fold-out luxury caravan is unlike anything we've come across before."

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New computing devices will allow touch, smell – IBM

New computing devices will allow touch, smell – IBM: "WASHINGTON (AFP) – Future computing devices will push further into the senses by developing capacities to mimic the ability to see, smell, touch, taste and hear, IBM says in an annual forecast Monday."

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Top 10 things you CAN have for Christmas 2012

Top 10 things you CAN have for Christmas 2012: "Having dealt with all the things you are not getting for Christmas this year, it's time to turn our attention to what Santa's elves have really been hammering away at. So from consumer favorites to clever innovations to quirky surprises, here's our selection of the top 10 things you CAN have for Christmas 2012."

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Vector-based video could mean no more pixels

Vector-based video could mean no more pixels: "Unlike traditional bitmap graphics, which are made up of an array of pixels, vector graphics consist of lines, curves and shapes that are based on geometric formulas. Not only do they take up far less memory than bitmaps, but sections of them can also be enlarged without any loss of resolution. "

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Gizmag's top 10 ski gadgets for 2013

Gizmag's top 10 ski gadgets for 2013: "So far, the Northern Hemisphere's 2012-2013 ski season is off to a rather sluggish start, at least in the heart of American ski country. It looks like it could be another warm, dry year. That doesn't mean that the skiing has to be boring, however. These ski-centric gadgets will wring more enjoyment out of the big powder days that do come and provide a fun distraction when conditions are less than ideal."

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Elvis-evoking Cat-Ears reduce wind noise while you cycle

Elvis-evoking Cat-Ears reduce wind noise while you cycle: "Sometimes when you’re cycling, especially if you’re out on the open road, the constant wind noise in your ears can get rather annoying. It can also be potentially dangerous, as it may mask traffic noises. Well, if you’re OK with sporting what at first glance looks like a pair of dark sideburns, Cat-Ears might be the answer."

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High-tech handcuffs can shock, inject prisoners

High-tech handcuffs can shock, inject prisoners: "Today, handcuffs are just steel restraints. Tomorrow, however, they could be much more. According to U.S. Patent Application 20120298119, Scottsdale Inventions, LLC of Paradise Valley, Arizona has invented a pair of high-tech handcuffs that could deliver electric shocks to prisoners by means of an incorporated Taser-like system hooked to wireless controls and sophisticated sensors."

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Air Cork keeps your wine fresh – using a balloon

Air Cork keeps your wine fresh – using a balloon: "When it comes to resealing an opened bottle of wine, most people either use the cork that the bottle came with, or a hand-pumped vacuum stopper. Now, however, there’s another option – it’s called the Air Cork, although we also kind of like its previous name, the Wine Balloon."

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X-47B unmanned stealth fighter tested aboard the USS Truman

X-47B unmanned stealth fighter tested aboard the USS Truman: "Northrop Grumman has delivered two X-47B Unmanned Combat Aircraft Systems (UCAS) to the US Navy, which has begun three weeks of tests aboard the USS Truman – the first aircraft carrier to host test operations for an unmanned aircraft. The X-47B is based on the Pegasus X-47A (originally designed in 2001) but features improved landing gear and folding wings for work aboard carriers."

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Insect-inspired virtual traffic lights could replace – or augment – the real things

Insect-inspired virtual traffic lights could replace – or augment – the real things: "If you’ve ever seen two groups of ants meet up with one another on intersecting paths, you’ll notice that they don’t crash into each other. Instead, the larger group instinctively takes the right-of-way, followed by the smaller group – the same thing applies to bees and termites. Inspired by this behavior, Carnegie Mellon University telecommunications researcher Ozan Tonguz wondered if the same thing could be applied to traffic flow."

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2012 Smartphone Comparison Guide

2012 Smartphone Comparison Guide: "In just five years, smartphones have gone from expensive novelties to fundamental parts of our lives. If you're shopping for a new smartphone, the choices can be daunting. How do you sort through the mess? Our 2012 Smartphone Comparison Guide is designed to help you decide which model is best for you."

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US Federal Trade Commission offers US$50K prize for blocking robocalls

US Federal Trade Commission offers US$50K prize for blocking robocalls: "n the United States, about 30 billion robocalls (pre-recorded automatically dialed solicitations) are placed each year, and similar conditions hold across much of the world. In the U.S. and many other countries, most commercial robocalls are illegal. As part of an ongoing campaign against these illegal robocalls, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is launching its Robocall Challenge, seeking a solution that blocks illegal robocalls on cell phones and on landlines. It is offering a US$50,000 cash prize for the best practical solution."

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Cocoon 1 takes a modular approach to the (very) personal space

Cocoon 1 takes a modular approach to the (very) personal space: "I’m not sure if it’s simply a matter of providing some personal space in an increasingly crowded world, some deep-seated desire to get back to the womb, or something else entirely, but there seem to be a growing number of pods and cocoons emerging from the brains of designers these days, whether it be for treetop accommodation, a backyard workspace or catching some Z’s at work. The latest comes from Micasa Lab, the folks behind the iRock rocking chair, whose Cocoon 1 is a clear sphere in which you can kick back and relax, store items, or even cook."

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Gravity powers new lamp for developing countries | Crave - CNET

Gravity powers new lamp for developing countries | Crave - CNET: "t's easy to take our electric lights for granted. Many people in developing counties don't have the luxury of electric grids and have to rely on kerosene lamps to brighten the night. Kerosene costs money and breathing the fumes is dangerous. A new light powered by gravity could be a superior solution to lighting needs."

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NASA will crash GRAIL spacecraft into Moon on December 17

NASA will crash GRAIL spacecraft into Moon on December 17: "At a press conference today, NASA confirmed that its two Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) Spacecraft will crash into a lunar mountain next week. The controlled impact will occur on Monday, December 17 at approximately 5:28 p.m. EST (22:28 GMT). The impact area is at latitude 75.62° N, longitude 26.63° E near the lunar North Pole in the vicinity of Goldschmidt crater."

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FlyViz puts eyes in the back of your head

FlyViz puts eyes in the back of your head: "Those just as concerned about where they’ve been as where they’re going might be keen to give the “FlyViz” a go. Created by a team of French researchers to expand the scope of human vision, the prototype system captures vision on a 360-degree camera attached to the top of a helmet that is processed in real time and displayed on Sony’s HMZ-TD Personal 3D Viewer, giving the wearer a 360-view of their surroundings."

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Interview: Aeros CEO Igor Pasternak

Interview: Aeros CEO Igor Pasternak: "The Aeroscraft airship, with its minimal fuel consumption, vertical take-off and landing capabilities and point-to-point delivery is promising to revolutionize aviation."

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DMC unleashes tuned Lamborghini Aventador

DMC unleashes tuned Lamborghini Aventador: "he LP900 package builds upon the Molto Veloce package that DMC revealed a couple of months back. It is the official "Stage Two" of DMC's Aventador tuning plans. The German tuner translated inspiration from the Aventador J concept into an aerodynamics and performance package that only 10 people will ever have the pleasure of owning."

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Speaker-equipped shower head plays tunes via Bluetooth

Speaker-equipped shower head plays tunes via Bluetooth: "Whether you like to sing along to your favorite tunes while in the shower, or just listen to them, speakers and water don’t usually mix. You could try using a waterproof iPod shuffle, but where would you clip it? Instead, you might want to go with Kohler’s new Moxie shower head, that features a built-in wireless waterproof speaker."

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Spicy paper claimed to keep fruits and veggies fresh longer

Spicy paper claimed to keep fruits and veggies fresh longer: "While we all know how important it is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, it can often be difficult to use all that we buy before they spoil. A product known as FreshPaper, however, is claimed to keep such foods fresh two to four times longer than normal – and it does so just using spices."

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Brutal Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Black Series revealed

Brutal Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Black Series revealed: "Due for its public debut at the upcoming Los Angeles motor show, Mercedes-Benz AMG has finally revealed images and details of the SLS Black Series. Ever since the gull-winged wonder was first released in 2010, enthusiasts and schoolboys have been anticipating the inevitable ultimate (road-going) version. It'll come as no surprise that the beast in question is wider, harder, faster, and completely awesome."

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X-37B returns to orbit

X-37B returns to orbit: "A US Air Force X-37B unmanned space plane was launched on its second mission today. The vehicle was sent into low-earth orbit from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 41 atop an Atlas V rocket at 1:03 p.m. EST (1803 GMT). This mission, designated OTV-3, is the first time an X-37B has returned to orbit."

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Mathematical formula for the perfect Christmas tree

Mathematical formula for the perfect Christmas tree: "For those who prefer something more traditional than the Treeasy, members of the University of Sheffield’s Maths society have devised a formula for the perfect Christmas tree in response to a challenge by U.K. department store Debenhams."

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DoorBot lets you see who's at the door, wherever you are

DoorBot lets you see who's at the door, wherever you are: "Everyone wants to feel safe in their home, and it's easier to do so when you know who’s standing outside. DoorBot aims to help with exactly this, by functioning as a Wi-Fi-connected doorbell that streams live video and audio directly to your smartphone of choice whether you’re sitting on your couch or backpacking abroad."

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CNET 100 - CNET

CNET 100 - CNET:

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How to track your car's gas mileage on Android | How To - CNET

How to track your car's gas mileage on Android | How To - CNET: "CNET How To How to track your car's gas mileage ...
How to track your car's gas mileage on Android
Tracking your car's gas mileage can help determine if it is getting decent fuel economy, and can help calculate drive costs. FuelLog is an Android app that can show you your MPG and provides lots of useful statistics."

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Spotify Review - Software - CNET Reviews

Spotify Review - Software - CNET Reviews: "The good: Spotify has an enormous music catalog that is available to users, on-demand, for free. Social features make it great for discovering new music.
The bad: Intermittent audio ads for free users are loud and extremely annoying. It needs more curated radio stations."

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City authorities turn to shipping containers to combat homelessness

City authorities turn to shipping containers to combat homelessness: "Independent schemes in the New York, USA and Brighton, UK are putting the humble shipping container to work as an effective source of low-cost housing to combat the problem of homelessness. The two schemes are poles apart in scope, and designed to address vastly differing causes of homelessness, however."

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Spoutnik microwave oven has a look that's out of this world

Spoutnik microwave oven has a look that's out of this world: "With a name and design that suggest a Space Age, Barbarella-style design, Fagor’s new Spoutnik microwave could perhaps be mistaken for a cartoon-ish UFO that landed on the kitchen counter. Its bold, fun design is about more than just looks, though – it serves a functional purpose, too."

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Snowbull sled takes skiing lying down

Snowbull sled takes skiing lying down: "Traditionally the domain of small children celebrating a snow day, sledding is slowly working its way up to a serious snow sport akin to skiing. About a month ago, we covered the US$3,000 Snolo Stealth-X carbon fiber sled, and now we have another high-tech sled built for serious downhillers. The Snowbull is an Austrian-designed sled that uses high-tech components for a sharp, fast ride."

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LuminAR Bulb transforms any surface into a touch screen

LuminAR Bulb transforms any surface into a touch screen: "We've all seen gigantic touch screens on the news or in movies, but what if you could achieve the same type of interface by simply replacing the bulb in your desk lamp? That's the idea behind the LuminAR, developed by a team led by Natan Linder at the MIT Media Lab's Fluid Interfaces Group. It combines a Pico-projector, camera, and wireless computer to project interactive images onto any surface – and is small enough to screw into a standard light fixture."

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10 Best Fighter Aircraft In The World In Service - 2012 - YouTube

10 Best Fighter Aircraft In The World In Service - 2012 - YouTube: ""

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Top 10 Fastest Aircraft In The World - YouTube

Top 10 Fastest Aircraft In The World - YouTube: ""

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OFFICIAL Top 10 Fastest Production Cars In The World 2013-2014 UPDATED V6.0 - YouTube

OFFICIAL Top 10 Fastest Production Cars In The World 2013-2014 UPDATED V6.0 - YouTube: ""

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Departing Space Station Commander Provides Tour of Orbital Laboratory - YouTube

Departing Space Station Commander Provides Tour of Orbital Laboratory - YouTube: ""

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There's CO2 in them thar hills (…the cosmic rays told me)

There's CO2 in them thar hills (…the cosmic rays told me): "An international research team has been given the novel task of developing a practical means of monitoring underground stores of CO2 using none other than cosmic rays. The research hinges on the detection of the muons that occur as cosmic rays interact with the Earth's atmosphere, but which can penetrate several kilometers beneath the Earth's surface. It's thought that the approach could save significant amounts of money compared to alternative techniques."

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BAE Systems releases details of hybrid tank

BAE Systems releases details of hybrid tank: "BAE Systems has released an infographic outlining the features of its hybrid Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV). A joint venture between BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman with other partners, the GCV proposal is part of a US Army competition to replace the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, which entered service in 1981."

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LA100 fully autonomous UAV brings aerial photography to non-flyers

LA100 fully autonomous UAV brings aerial photography to non-flyers: "Micro UAVs have proven a boon for photographers looking to spread their wings into the aerial realm. Similarly, wearable actioncams, like the GoPro line, have enabled amateurs to capture professional quality images and video from angles hitherto the province of seasoned professionals with expensive equipment. France’s Lehmann Aviation is bringing these two technologies together with the LA100, a fully automatic UAV designed specifically to carry a GoPro HERO3 camera."

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HydroICE project developing a solar-powered combustion engine

HydroICE project developing a solar-powered combustion engine: "K, first things first – stop picturing a car with solar panels connected to its engine. What Missouri-based inventors Matt Bellue and Ben Cooper are working on is something a little different than that."

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How to Buy a Game Console | PCMag.com

How to Buy a Game Console | PCMag.com: "Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony all continue their slow, steady battles for gaming and entertainment domination"

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Bulgarian innovation: Bicycle pants and inflatable snowshoes from Any Exit

Bulgarian innovation: Bicycle pants and inflatable snowshoes from Any Exit: "Pants and bicycles aren't the most natural partners. But maybe that's because there is a lack of pants that both play nice with pedals and chains and don't put the silhouette of your genitals on display for the world to see. The new Small Foot pant is a bicycle-specific pant that attempts to do that and more. They're the latest design from a company also responsible for an innovative pair of snowshoes."

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Audi RS 6 Avant wagon gets new 560 hp, V8 engine for 2014

Audi RS 6 Avant wagon gets new 560 hp, V8 engine for 2014: "Audi has just announced its new RS 6 Avant wagon for 2014. Based on the car's specs, it's only a wagon in the shape of the body, because the area under the hood contains goodies that seem much more akin to that of a sports car."

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Scientists copy structure of cork to produce 3D blocks of graphene

Scientists copy structure of cork to produce 3D blocks of graphene: "Imagine how limiting it would be if steel, wood or plastic only existed in the form of thin sheets. Well, that’s been the case so far when it comes to graphene. "

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Realflex wraps serve to warm and light riders' arms and legs

Realflex wraps serve to warm and light riders' arms and legs: "As if cyclists didn't have enough choices to illuminate themselves at night, we now have one more. Joining the lighted helmets, belts, backpacks, wheel lights, and plain old bike lights are Realflex arm and leg wraps."

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New Stealth waterproof computer can withstand the weight of a pickup truck

New Stealth waterproof computer can withstand the weight of a pickup truck: "You just never know when you might find yourself in a situation where your computer needs to be doused in water or run over by a pickup truck. The original waterproof Stealth WPC-500F had you covered for the water situation, but the latest model adds the strength to withstand the weight of a pickup truck running it over."

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Hybrid self-charging power cell by-passes batteries

Hybrid self-charging power cell by-passes batteries: "Systems that convert kinetic energy into electric energy have made great strides in recent times, from mobile phone charging bicycle dynamos to tiles that turn footsteps into electrical energy."

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CyPhy Works' UAVs use ground-based power to stay aloft indefinitely

CyPhy Works' UAVs use ground-based power to stay aloft indefinitely: "Endurance is one of the biggest limiting factors of UAVs. To stay airborne longer, Boeing has turned to hydrogen to fuel its Phantom Eye, Qinetiq’s Zephyr relies on solar power and Northrop Grumman’s Global Hawk can refuel autonomously in mid-air. But CyPhy Works has taken a different approach with its first UAVs. By connecting to a ground-based power source via a “microfilament,” the UAVs are able to stay aloft indefinitely."

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Original Batmobile to go under the hammer

Original Batmobile to go under the hammer: "In the past few years, not only has the Corvette-like Batmobile from Batman Returns been put up for auction, but a jet-powered replica of that same style of Batmobile has also been created. A drivable copy of the Dark Knight-era Tumbler has likewise been built, along with a working replica of the associated Bat Pod motorcycle. For many people, however, the only “true” Batmobile is the original version driven by Adam West in the 1960s TV series – and it’s about to be put on the auction block, for the first time ever."

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Look Lock dangles a phone over your camera ... for young portrait subjects

Look Lock dangles a phone over your camera ... for young portrait subjects: "People love seeing photos of their kids looking directly at the camera, but unfortunately anyone who has ever tried to take a photograph of an easily-distracted child knows how hard that can be to get. TetherTools claims it's solved this problem with an articulating arm that holds a smartphone above the DSLR lens, giving little photo subjects something to look at."

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Stanford researchers control light using synthetic magnetism

Stanford researchers control light using synthetic magnetism: "Left to its own ways, light will follow the same path through an optical system whether the system is being used as a camera lens or as a projector. This is called time-reversal symmetry, or reciprocity. As many new applications and methods would be enabled by access to a non-reciprocal optical system, it is unfortunate that they have been so difficult to come by. But now researchers at Stanford University have discovered how to make such non-reciprocal systems by generating an effective magnetic field for photons."

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Aeroscraft dirigible airship prototype approaches completion

Aeroscraft dirigible airship prototype approaches completion: "The dirigible airship, the oddball aircraft of another era, is making a comeback. California-based Aeros Corporation has created a prototype of its new breed of variable buoyancy aircraft and expects the vehicle to be finished before the end of 2012. With its new cargo handling technology, minimum fuel consumption, vertical take-off and landing features and point to point delivery, the Aeroscraft platform promises to revolutionize airship technology."

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Porsche unveils the new, more powerful Cayman

Porsche unveils the new, more powerful Cayman: "Porsche's big unveil at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show was the all-new third-generation version of its Cayman sports car. The new coupe packs extra Porsche punch in terms of styling, content and performance."

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Scientists create flicker-free, shatterproof alternative to fluorescent lights

Scientists create flicker-free, shatterproof alternative to fluorescent lights: "Fluorescent lights are one of those things that you see everywhere, but that nobody likes. They flicker, they hum, they produce a rather unattractive light, plus they’re fragile and contain toxic substances. They may also be on their way out – scientists from North Carolina’s Wake Forest University have created a new form of lighting that they say could be used in the same large-scale applications as fluorescent bulbs, but that lacks their shortcomings."

'via Blog this'

Jaguar introduces its fastest, most powerful sedan ever

Jaguar introduces its fastest, most powerful sedan ever: "After pulling the cloth off the Jaguar F-Type for the first time on North American turf, Jaguar turned stage left and rolled the second member of its R-S ultra high-performance model line out of a makeshift garage door at the 2012 LA Auto Show. The "S" version of the XFR borrows features from the XKR-S and F-TYPE in Jaguar's attempt to take the sporty sedan to the next level."

'via Blog this'

TrackingPoint precision guided rifles decide when to take their own best shot

TrackingPoint precision guided rifles decide when to take their own best shot: "TrackingPoint, Inc., a precision guided rifle development company operating out of Austin, Texas, has developed breakthrough technology that claims to put jet fighter lock-and-launch technology onto a combat rifle, making sniper-level accuracy available to the average shooter."

'via Blog this'

Mercedes-Benz dazzles in L.A. with SLS Black Series and Ener-G-Force concept

Mercedes-Benz dazzles in L.A. with SLS Black Series and Ener-G-Force concept: "Mercedes may have already previewed the SLS AMG Black Series and Ener-G-Force, but that definitely didn't stop the two vehicles from dropping jaws at the L.A. Auto Show. The 622-hp supercar and world-roving public safety SUV from the future may have little in common, but either one is enough to stop you dead in your tracks."

'via Blog this'

Europe’s nEUROn UCAV demonstrator makes its maiden flight

Europe’s nEUROn UCAV demonstrator makes its maiden flight: "The European designed nEUROn Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator successfully completed its maiden flight on December 1, 2012. The flight took place at Dassault Aviation’s flight test base in Istres in southern France and marks a milestone for the nEUROn program that was launched in 2005 by the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) that involves the collaboration of six European countries."

'via Blog this'

Cadbury develops chocolate that won't melt at high temperatures

Cadbury develops chocolate that won't melt at high temperatures: "One of life’s less pleasant surprises is discovering the chocolate bar that you forgot you had in your pocket on a hot day. Two scientists working at Cadbury’s research and development plant in Bourneville, U.K., are fighting that gooey surprise with the invention of chocolate that remains solid even when exposed to temperatures of 40º C (104º F) for more than three hours. Aimed at tropical markets, the “temperature tolerant chocolate” is described in a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) patent application."

'via Blog this'

X-47B demonstrator makes first catapult launch

X-47B demonstrator makes first catapult launch: "The X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator has taken yet another step on the path towards unmanned aircraft operating amongst piloted aircraft on a carrier deck with its first ever steam-powered catapult launch. While the inaugural launch was conducted on land at a shore-based catapult facility at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, it gives the team confidence as it progresses towards a planned launch from a carrier next year."

'via Blog this'

SKYLON spacecraft's engine passes critical test

SKYLON spacecraft's engine passes critical test: "Reaction Engines Ltd. announced on Wednesday the completion of a critical round of testing of its SABRE engine’s precooler system. The SABRE is a radical type of hybrid jet/rocket engine capable of propelling a spacecraft into orbit or an aircraft in the atmosphere, at a velocity of Mach 5 (3,800 mph, 3,300 knots, 6,115 km/h). It’s intended for Reaction Engines’ SKYLON spacecraft and its airliner derivative, the LAPCAT A2 hypersonic aircraft."

'via Blog this'

Fingernail-sized radar chip could be used in future smartphones

Fingernail-sized radar chip could be used in future smartphones: "Research based in Frankfurt, Germany, and funded by the European Union, has resulted in a new low-cost, fingernail-sized radar chip package that could be implemented in a variety of areas, including the automotive industry, robotics and smartphones."

'via Blog this'

Plant-Microbial Fuel Cell generates electricity from living plants

Plant-Microbial Fuel Cell generates electricity from living plants: "Wetlands are estimated to account for around six percent of the earth’s surface and a new Plant-Microbial Fuel Cell technology developed at Wageningen University & Research in The Netherlands could see some of these areas become a viable source of renewable energy. More than that, the developers believe that their technology could be used to supply electricity to remote communities and in green roofs to supply electricity to households."

'via Blog this'

Sailrocket runs 65.45 knots (75 mph) to smash World Speed Sailing Record

Sailrocket runs 65.45 knots (75 mph) to smash World Speed Sailing Record: "NEWS FLASH - The outright world speed sailing record was smashed this afternoon (November 24) by Paul Larsen in the Vestas Sailrocket 2 with the astonishing time of 65.37 knots. (75.23 mph - 121.06 km/h). See Paul's blog for the very latest as it happens."

'via Blog this'

Heated Coat

Heated Coat: "In my part of the world, winter is starting right now.

As I have no basement, and my garage is not insulated, I find myself doing most of my work out in the cold."

'via Blog this'

The Boeing computer-blitzing drone that could cripple a nation's electronics | Mail Online

The Boeing computer-blitzing drone that could cripple a nation's electronics | Mail Online: "Down the years and across the universe, the heroes of science-fiction classics from Dan Dare to Star Wars and The Matrix have fought intergalactic battles with weapons that wipe out enemy electronics at the touch of a button."

'via Blog this'

Bloom.fm launches mobile-first music service, 16 million tracks on day one

Bloom.fm launches mobile-first music service, 16 million tracks on day one: "Though there may be no shortage of free and subscription-based music services, London-based startup Bloom.fm is counting on there being room for one more. It has a trick up its sleeve: a mobile-first approach to market. Not beholden to translating desktop functionality and UI features to the smartphone, Bloom.fm has delivered a distinct take on the mobile music experience. Out today for iOS in the UK, Gizmag takes the first look at the app, and talks to the team hoping to take on the big guns."

'via Blog this'

Pickup Hatch? Hyundai C3 Roll Top pulls the roof off the Veloster

Pickup Hatch? Hyundai C3 Roll Top pulls the roof off the Veloster: "Hyundai designed the C3 for the Los Angeles Auto Show that began this week, thinking of it it as the perfect solution for the urban-meets-surf culture of the city on the sea. It also draws influence from the fixed-gear bicycle scene, and Hyundai envisions equipment from the mirror caps to the wheels being customized by the owner. Hyundai picked the flashy high-gloss-white/flat black/flat red/flat teal color scheme based on a sampling of fixie styles, and put a bike in back of the show car to boot."

'via Blog this'

Recent discovery may change our understanding of how black holes form and evolve

Recent discovery may change our understanding of how black holes form and evolve: "Astronomers from the University of Texas at Austin have measured the second-largest black hole ever discovered. It takes up some 14 percent of the galaxy's mass and may lead to an overhaul of theories regarding the formation and evolution of black holes."

'via Blog this'

StickNFind system uses your phone and coin-like tags to find lost items

StickNFind system uses your phone and coin-like tags to find lost items: "If the number of “finding” systems cropping up lately is anything to go by, we seem to be quite a forgetful bunch. One of the latest such systems, known as StickNFind, looks to be particularly simple – just some little adhesive tags, and an app on the user’s smartphone."

'via Blog this'

This quadrotor flies -- and rolls -- over just about anything | Crave - CNET

This quadrotor flies -- and rolls -- over just about anything | Crave - CNET: "We've seen how flying quadrotors can form spectacular displays in the sky, but what if they could roll along the ground too?"

'via Blog this'

New small fission reactor for deep-space missions demonstrated

New small fission reactor for deep-space missions demonstrated: "Exploring the regions of deep space beyond Mars means sending probes where solar power isn’t practical. Since the 1960s, NASA has equipped its Apollo missions and unmanned explorers with Radioisotope Thermal Generators (RTGs). These have worked very well, but they run on plutonium 238, which is currently in short supply."

'via Blog this'

Satechi dongle turns iOS devices into universal remote controls

Satechi dongle turns iOS devices into universal remote controls: "Having already provided a remote for the control of iOS devices with its BT Media Remote, Satechi has reversed things by releasing a dongle that turns an iOS device into a universal remote control. In combination with a free app, the Universal Remote dongle enables control of devices around the home that use infrared remote controllers"

'via Blog this'

New hypercars - 1500 hp Hennessy Venom GT2 and 1400 hp Koenigsegg One:1

New hypercars - 1500 hp Hennessy Venom GT2 and 1400 hp Koenigsegg One:1: "The horsepower proliferation war between the world's hypercar elite looks set to explode again in the next 12 months when both Koenigsegg and Hennessy will debut new versions of their Agera R and Venom GT respectively, both with significantly enhanced performance."

'via Blog this'

10 great Google tools you need in your business workflow | PCWorld

10 great Google tools you need in your business workflow | PCWorld: "Google is so ubiquitous in our everyday digital lives that it's easy to overlook the many tools it offers that have a business slant. But there are lots of them, and I'm not just talking about Microsoft Office equivalents such as Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, or Google Analytics"

'via Blog this'

US Special Forces seeking subsonic ammunition for covert missions

US Special Forces seeking subsonic ammunition for covert missions: "Most people have experienced the sonic boom of a skillfully wielded whip, or the closely related crack of a nearby bolt of lightning. Such sounds have a character that attracts a good deal of attention, which is why the US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is trying to silence them. The crack of a rifle shot is the sonic boom of a supersonic bullet, making stealthy ground missions difficult to accomplish. To address this need, SOCOM has issued a Small Business Innovation Research request for proposal for a feasibility study of suitable subsonic rounds."

'via Blog this'

Spark smartens up any standard light socket

Spark smartens up any standard light socket: "The common thing amongst the various smart light bulbs we’ve seen recently, such as the Lumen, Philips hue, LIFX and INSTEON, is that all the enabling wireless technology is built into the bulbs themselves. This means that when the bulb inevitably fails, you’re faced with replacing the whole expensive kit and caboodle. Spark overcomes this problem by separating the expensive wireless components from the bulb, thereby allowing a standard bulb to be connected to the internet."

'via Blog this'

Tiny NanoQ quadrocopter could serve as an inexpensive research platform – or a fun toy

Tiny NanoQ quadrocopter could serve as an inexpensive research platform – or a fun toy: "QFO Labs, a Minneapolis-based start-up, is attempting to launch a mini quadcopter toy called the NanoQ. It uses inexpensive 3-axis gyros and accelerometers to remain stable mid-flight, and comes with a one-handed remote that integrates tilt sensors for smooth and natural control – and unlike most quadrotors, the NanoQ's propellers are inverted which prevents them from colliding with ceilings."

'via Blog this'

The Gadget Hound locates the items you always lose

The Gadget Hound locates the items you always lose: "There's nothing more frustrating than losing a pair of keys when you're on the way out the door ... except maybe losing your cell phone in that same scenario. Or your wallet. Or sunglasses. Fact is, there are a lot of small, easy-to-lose items that are essential for daily living. So why not keep track of them with an electronic bloodhound, that stays on the scent 24/7? That's the idea behind the Gadget Hound."

'via Blog this'

World’s first 100 percent biofuel-powered flight of civil aircraft

World’s first 100 percent biofuel-powered flight of civil aircraft: "Earlier this year, Air Canada joined a growing number of airlines conducting flights using biofuels. Like similar flights by Boeing and Lufthansa, the aircraft was powered by a mix of petroleum and biofuel. Now the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has removed the fossil fuel component completely with the first flight of a civil jet powered by 100 percent unblended biofuel."

'via Blog this'

How to boost lithium battery performance – just add crushed silicon

How to boost lithium battery performance – just add crushed silicon: "Researchers at Rice University and Lockheed Martin may have developed a low-cost method of creating longer-lasting, high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. Currently graphite is used as the anode in commercial li-ion products, despite the fact that a silicon anode could potentially store ten times more lithium ions. The team says it has solved one of the problems associated with silicon, which nearly triples the energy density of current li-ion designs."

'via Blog this'

TechJect’s Dragonfly micro UAV flies like a bird and hovers like an insect

TechJect’s Dragonfly micro UAV flies like a bird and hovers like an insect: "Given their impressive flight capabilities, it’s not surprising to see researchers turning to the world of flying insects for inspiration when developing new kinds of micro UAVs. With their ability to both fly at high speeds and hover, the dragonfly would seem an obvious candidate for biomimicry."

'via Blog this'

Cloaking technology could protect offshore rigs from destructive waves

Cloaking technology could protect offshore rigs from destructive waves: "Recent years have seen much progress in the development of invisibility cloaks which bend light around an object so it can't be seen, but can the same principles be applied to ocean waves that are strong enough to smash steel and concrete? That's the aim of Reza Alam's underwater “invisibility cloak.” The assistant professor of mechanical engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, recently outlined how to use variations of density in ocean water to cloak floating objects from dangerous surface waves."

'via Blog this'

2013 SRT Viper set for production

2013 SRT Viper set for production: "It was only a few short months ago that Chrysler showed off the 2013 SRT Viper at the New York Motor Show. The brand new model boasts some serious refinements over previous iterations of the 10-cylinder beast, with the body style and interior rebuilt from the ground up. The muscle-car is now set to enter production, and the company has released some new performance numbers and an extensive photo gallery to mark the occasion."

'via Blog this'

SAVMS: prefab modular housing in under 3 weeks?

SAVMS: prefab modular housing in under 3 weeks?: "Madrid-based architectural studio CSO Arquitectura teamed up with prefab construction specialists Torsan to create SAVMS, a modular housing system designed to maximize adaptability while minimizing ecological footprint. The flexibility of the system allows customers to choose a house of their own design, while the prefabricated approach allows costs to be kept more or less fixed."

'via Blog this'

COOKING UP ROCKET FUEL! - YouTube

COOKING UP ROCKET FUEL! - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

ROCKIN' PAPER PLATE SPEAKER!! - YouTube

ROCKIN' PAPER PLATE SPEAKER!! - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

Make a MOUSETRAP HANDGUN that SHOOTS!! - YouTube

Make a MOUSETRAP HANDGUN that SHOOTS!! - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

Hitman - YouTube

Hitman - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

South Korea develops bird strike defense robot

South Korea develops bird strike defense robot: "The Korean Atomic Energy Group and LIG Nex1 (an aerospace and defense subsidiary of LG Corp) have jointly developed what they are calling the world's first bird strike defense robot. Birds are a major headache around military air bases and civilian airports all over the world, as they can cause significant damage when they collide with aircraft or get sucked into engines. The robot is a six-wheeled unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that uses a combination of directional acoustics and laser patterns to scare birds away."

'via Blog this'

Hubble discovers most distant galaxy ever observed

Hubble discovers most distant galaxy ever observed: "NASA's Hubble telescope has discovered the most distant object yet seen in the universe. The object, a galaxy called MACS0647-JD, is 13.3 billion light years from Earth and can only be seen with the help of a lens of intergalactic proportions. The light from MACS0647-JD left it only 420 million years after the Big Bang, so it provides a valuable look into the nature of the early universe."

'via Blog this'

Kindle Fire HD 8.9" vs. iPad

Kindle Fire HD 8.9" vs. iPad: "When something is a success, it tends to breed. The original Kindle Fire was a phenomenon, and now it has a family. At the risk of over-complicating things, Amazon released three different Kindle Fires this year. The latest and greatest is the Kindle Fire HD 8.9". How does it compare to the market-leading iPad? Read on."

'via Blog this'

Concorde meets railgun – SpaceX founder's plan for future rapid transport

Concorde meets railgun – SpaceX founder's plan for future rapid transport: "Taking to the stage at this year's Economist Innovation Awards, Elon Musk of SpaceX let slip a few more choice details about his "Hyperloop" high-speed transportation system that would see commuters travel between Los Angeles and San Francisco in a mere 30 minutes, describing the concept for the first time as a cross between Concorde and railgun."

'via Blog this'

Caught on Video: Orca Whale Tails Swimming Dog in New Zealand | Video | TheBlaze.com

Caught on Video: Orca Whale Tails Swimming Dog in New Zealand | Video | TheBlaze.com: "A diver and a dog got more than they bargained for when they found themselves incredibly close to several orca whales in New Zealand."

'via Blog this'

Wireless, handheld device for ground control of X-47B unmanned aircraft tested

Wireless, handheld device for ground control of X-47B unmanned aircraft tested: "While impressive, unmanned flight is just one of the capabilities required of the Northrop Grumman-built X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) if it is to enter service with the U.S. Navy. Prior to and after any flights, the aircraft also needs to be safely maneuvered around the crowded deck of an aircraft carrier. Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Navy have completed the first tests of a wireless, handheld device that will be used to do just that."

'via Blog this'

Will your next smartphone take a baby's temperature?

Will your next smartphone take a baby's temperature?: "Is smartphone evolution at a standstill? Today's batch of phones have ultra-sharp displays, zippy performance, and great cameras. What's left? One man hopes that the next big thing will be infrared sensors."

'via Blog this'

Nissan shows off gorgeous 2013 GT-R, for sale in Japan in this month

Nissan shows off gorgeous 2013 GT-R, for sale in Japan in this month: "The Nissan GT-R is a car most people will only dream of owning. It comes with a hefty price tag, and is only made in limited runs. Still, that doesn't stop us from marveling at its beauty. Nissan just showed off the 2013 GT-R for Japan, and it could be a preview of what's to come for the 2014 model when it ships to other territories. As you would expect from the GT-R, it's quite impressive."

'via Blog this'

SpaceX moves toward manned flight

SpaceX moves toward manned flight: "SpaceX has completed the first three performance milestones for the manned version of its Dragon/Falcon 9 spacecraft and launch system. In an announcement at its Hawthorne, California, headquarters, SpaceX said that the milestones are part of NASA's Commercial Crew Integrated Capability (CCiCap) initiative, which is intended to develop privately owned and operated manned spacecraft capable of taking passengers into low Earth orbit for NASA and private customers."

'via Blog this'

Belkin’s NetCam uses your smartphone for home security

Belkin’s NetCam uses your smartphone for home security: "After Belkin revealed a baby monitor that connects to iOS devices just a few weeks ago, it was only a matter of time before they took that concept up a notch with a full security camera. The company recently revealed the new NetCam Wi-Fi Camera, which uses night vision and connects to a smartphone or tablet, so you can monitor your home remotely."

'via Blog this'

Kindle keyboard review

Kindle keyboard review: "If you like to read, there have become a lot more ways to read in the past few years. The old fashioned way of reading paper books is getting less popular, while using an e reader and a tablet are becoming more popular all the time. "

'via Blog this'

Kepler Motors releases videos of its 800-hp hybrid supercar

Kepler Motors releases videos of its 800-hp hybrid supercar: "Kepler Motors is gearing up to get its Motion hybrid supercar to customers. The California-based boutique automaker originally announced the 800-hp car in 2009 and should begin deliveries in the near future. In anticipation of the launch, it has released three new video clips showing the Motion ... in motion."

'via Blog this'

Lamborghini throws the top off new Aventador LP700-4 Roadster

Lamborghini throws the top off new Aventador LP700-4 Roadster: "Teenage boys the world over have another drool-worthy Lamborghini to plaster on their bedroom walls with the unveiling of the Aventador LP700-4 Roadster"

'via Blog this'

MIT breakthrough could lead to paper-thin bullet-proof armor

MIT breakthrough could lead to paper-thin bullet-proof armor: "Scientists have theorized that paper-thin composite nanomaterials could stop bullets just as effectively as heavy weight body armor, but progress has been hampered by their inability to reliably test such materials against projectile impacts"

'via Blog this'

Autonomous Audi almost matches veteran race car drivers' lap times

Autonomous Audi almost matches veteran race car drivers' lap times: "Stanford's autonomous Audi TTS research vehicle is gaining on the performance of its human-piloted counterparts. In contrast to its slightly pedestrian romp up Pikes Peak back in 2010, the self-driving car known as Shelley has recently hit speeds of 120 mph and posted lap times only just behind those of expert race car drivers at Thunderhill Raceway in California."

'via Blog this'

Resurrected process converts sugar directly into diesel

Resurrected process converts sugar directly into diesel: "Researchers at the Energy Biosciences Institute (EBI) are generating bio fuels from renewable sources, such as sugar and starch, using a process that could be commercialized in as little as five to ten years."

'via Blog this'

Microwave-packing EatWave vending machine delivers cold food and hot

Microwave-packing EatWave vending machine delivers cold food and hot: "Aside from items with a lengthy shelf life, such as candy bars and potato chips, purchasing any more substantial food from a vending machine is generally a recipe for disappointment."

'via Blog this'

Chemical reaction eats up CO2 to produce energy ... and other useful stuff

Chemical reaction eats up CO2 to produce energy ... and other useful stuff: "While there are plenty of ways to make carbon-based products from CO2, these methods usually require a lot of energy because the CO2 molecules are so stable. If the energy comes from the burning of fossil fuels, then the net result will be more CO2 entering the atmosphere. Now a material scientist at Michigan Technological University has discovered a chemical reaction that not only soaks up CO2, but also produces useful chemicals along with significant amounts of energy."

'via Blog this'

Wfoil 18 Albatross: WW1 seaplane with modern hydrofoil design can hit 50 knots

Wfoil 18 Albatross: WW1 seaplane with modern hydrofoil design can hit 50 knots: "We're not quite sure why the sudden interest in hydrofoil innovation in Slovenia, but last week's Internautica event saw the release of two different and quite radical recreational hydrofoil craft. The first was the Quadrofoil electric hydrofoil sportscar for the water, and the second is the wFoil 18 Albatross, a cross between a WWI seaplane and a modern hydrofoil which is capable of 50 knots."

'via Blog this'

Use Your Webcam For Home Surveillance With These Tools

Use Your Webcam For Home Surveillance With These Tools: " live in England, the country with the highest number of CCTVs than anywhere else in the world – about 1 camera to every 30 people, it’s estimated. Obviously, that’s not enough (yes, that is sarcasm), so today I’m doing a round-up review of useful tools for adding CCTV to your own home."

'via Blog this'

Nissan developing "fatigue-free" car seats

Nissan developing "fatigue-free" car seats: "You might think that it requires no effort to sit in a car seat. According to the engineers at Nissan, however, that’s not the case. That said, they’ve designed a new type of seat that they claim requires less physical effort to use, thus lessening driver fatigue and discomfort."

'via Blog this'

XTable: A height-adjustable workstation for those who like both sitting and standing

XTable: A height-adjustable workstation for those who like both sitting and standing: "t's a positive thing that we're all different; that humanity isn't made up of automatons who all have the same wants, needs, and desires. Unfortunately while each of us can furnish our homes in whichever way we see fit, the same isn't true of our places of work. Those who work in offices generally have to make do with whatever furniture is provided, even if it doesn't suit their individual needs. Providing options is therefore a good strategy, and XTable from Holmris offers nothing but options."

'via Blog this'

Flying Kyosho Space Ball: The R/C Death Star and air freshener in one

Flying Kyosho Space Ball: The R/C Death Star and air freshener in one: "Almost a year ago, the Japanese Ministry of Defense made quite a splash when it revealed a spherical, remote-controlled aircraft that could zip around a room, roll along the ground, and even bounce off obstacles without losing control."

'via Blog this'

CHAMP missile test flight knocks out electronic devices with a burst of energy

CHAMP missile test flight knocks out electronic devices with a burst of energy: "This week, science fiction became science fact as a Boeing CHAMP missile knocked out a building full of electronics in the Utah desert at Hill Air Force Base. There was no explosion and no flying shrapnel. There was only the sound of the missile’s engine as it flew overhead and the sputtering of sophisticated computers crashing as they were hit by a beam of high-energy microwaves."

'via Blog this'

AUG A3-CQC ASSAULT RIFLE!!! - YouTube

AUG A3-CQC ASSAULT RIFLE!!! - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

Ford shows off Mustang Cobra Jet Concept with twin turbos

Ford shows off Mustang Cobra Jet Concept with twin turbos: "Ford has shown off a new version of its Mustang Cobra Jet concept at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show this year. Since 2008, the Jet has been the most accomplished production-based drag racer, and Ford is making some pretty serious changes that it hopes will keep it on top. The Cobra Jet concept that Ford is displaying features a twin-turbocharged 5.0-liter V-8. This is a big change for the drag racer, which has always featured a large supercharged engine."

'via Blog this'

iRock: The power-generating rocking chair for iDevices

iRock: The power-generating rocking chair for iDevices: "We’ve seen plenty of iPhone and iPad chargers that harness power from eco-friendly sources such as wind and solar (or both), but Zurich-based Micasa Lab has turned to a different, relatively (but not completely) untapped energy source to keep the juice flowing in iOS devices – the rocking chair. But the iRock Rocking Chair doesn’t just use the power generated via rocking back and forth to charge iOS devices, it also powers speakers built into the chair’s backrest."

'via Blog this'

Oakley launches goggles with GPS, Bluetooth, text messaging, jump analytics, and more

Oakley launches goggles with GPS, Bluetooth, text messaging, jump analytics, and more: "Oakley has just rolled out what might be the goggles to rule all goggles. The technology-packed AirWave snow goggles have GPS, jump analytics, caller-id, text messaging, Bluetooth, and music controls, all available from a heads-up display."

'via Blog this'

Can the new Dart give Dodge a sexy Italian accent? CNET On Cars, Episode 5 | CNET on Cars - CNET

Can the new Dart give Dodge a sexy Italian accent? CNET On Cars, Episode 5 | CNET on Cars - CNET: "Seldom have I received so much e-mail asking me to check out a new car than I have for the new Dodge Dart. So here it is, in this episode, a very promising car with one big flaw in the configuration the company sent us. Stay on it, Dodge, you're that close to having a winner here."

'via Blog this'

50-state bucket list » Ventura County Star

50-state bucket list » Ventura County Star: "But for those who take the quest seriously, merely crossing the border or changing planes at an airport doesn't necessarily give you the right to say you've been there."

'via Blog this'

SpaceX Dragon returns from first commercial mission

SpaceX Dragon returns from first commercial mission: "History’s first commercial space mission ended today as SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft returned to Earth. The 21-day flight to the International Space Station (ISS) ended when the unmanned cargo ship splashed down in the Pacific Ocean at 12:22 p.m. PDT. The mission, designated CRS-1, is the first of twelve SpaceX is sending to the ISS as part of NASA’s plan to replace the retired Space Shuttle with privately built and operated spacecraft that will one day carry both cargo and crew."

'via Blog this'

NASA heli-capsule could let astronauts land anywhere

NASA heli-capsule could let astronauts land anywhere: "Space exploration once captured the world's imagination. In the 1960s and 1970s, children dreamed of satellites, lunar rovers, and walking on the moon. Today – decades after Sputnik, Neil Armstrong, and the Apollo missions – many children may not even know what a space capsule is."

'via Blog this'

Google announces new Nexus tablets, smartphone | Internet & Media - CNET News

Google announces new Nexus tablets, smartphone | Internet & Media - CNET News: "The Nexus 7 now comes in new Wi-Fi models that are 16GB (for $199) and 32GB (for $249). Google also is making a version available with an HSPA+ cellular connection -- $32GB for $299. It's on sale Nov. 13."

'via Blog this'

Our Weather Satellites Are Dying - Slashdot

Our Weather Satellites Are Dying - Slashdot: ""The NY Times reports that some experts say it is almost certain that the U.S. will soon face a year or more without crucial weather satellites that provide invaluable data for predicting storm tracks"

'via Blog this'

tuxedo mask - 99 Life Hacks to make your life easier!

tuxedo mask - 99 Life Hacks to make your life easier!:

'via Blog this'

CHAMP missile test flight knocks out electronic devices with a burst of energy

CHAMP missile test flight knocks out electronic devices with a burst of energy: "This week, science fiction became science fact as a Boeing CHAMP missile knocked out a building full of electronics in the Utah desert at Hill Air Force Base. There was no explosion and no flying shrapnel. There was only the sound of the missile’s engine as it flew overhead and the sputtering of sophisticated computers crashing as they were hit by a beam of high-energy microwaves."

'via Blog this'