Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Subaru set to fire out new 2015 WRX

Subaru set to fire out new 2015 WRX: "The Subaru WRX has always been a touchstone for rally car performance in a street legal car with its fast handling, turbocharged acceleration and hefty hood scoops. Subaru's long-awaited refresh adds a six speed manual or automatic gearbox, new styling, and bids farewell to the five door hatchback version."

'via Blog this'

Three Great Scientific Discoveries of 2013

Three Great Scientific Discoveries of 2013: "2013 has been a terrific year in the field of science with so much having been accomplished, but what are the biggest discoveries of the year? YouTube channel SciShow looks at three very big scientific discoveries that changed how we look at physics, Mars, and ourselves!"

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Monday, December 30, 2013

2013: The year of the drone

2013: The year of the drone: "Although aerial drones been around in one form or another since World War I, it hasn’t really been until the last decade that they’ve really taken off, so to speak. Where they were once restricted to a spot of battlefield reconnaissance, in addition to military applications, drones are now used for everything from agriculture to oil prospecting and by everyone from rescue workers to real estate agents. Although the technological advances and proliferation of drones has accelerated over the past decade, 2013 was the year that the technology really entered the public consciousness. So let’s have a look back at Gizmag’s pick of the top drone stories of 2013."

'via Blog this'

GPS AdventureBox merges geocaching and gift-giving

GPS AdventureBox merges geocaching and gift-giving: "It's often said that experiences make better gifts than physical products, but the GPS AdventureBox is designed to deliver both. In a merging of geocaching and gift-giving, the GPS-enabled box locks away a physical gift or note until the recipient successfully follows a trail of GPS breadcrumbs to a series of locations specified by the giver."

'via Blog this'

World's first cycle to the South Pole achieved

World's first cycle to the South Pole achieved: "Shortly before Christmas, we heard about 35 year-old British adventurer Maria Leijerstam's planned attempt to ride to the South Pole on a recumbent fat-tired tricycle. On December 27th at 1am GMT, she achieved that goal, becoming the first person to ever successfully cycle from the edge of the Antarctic continent to the Pole."

'via Blog this'

Sunday, December 29, 2013

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "The Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird" was an advanced, long-range, Mach 3+ strategic reconnaissance aircraft.[1] It was developed as a black project from the Lockheed A-12 reconnaissance aircraft in the 1960s by Lockheed and its Skunk Works division. Clarence "Kelly" Johnson was responsible for many of the design's innovative concepts. During reconnaissance missions, the SR-71 operated at high speeds and altitudes to allow it to outrace threats. If a surface-to-air missile launch was detected, the standard evasive action was simply to accelerate and outfly the missile.[2]
The SR-71 served with the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1998. A total of 32 aircraft were built; 12 were lost in accidents, but none lost to enemy action.[3][4] The SR-71 has been given several nicknames, including Blackbird and Habu.[5] Since 1976, it has held the world record for the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft, a record previously held by the YF-12.[6][7][8]"

'via Blog this'

InfinityList – Jetman in “Full Flight”

InfinityList – Jetman in “Full Flight”:

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Spherical Flying Machine Developed by Japan Ministry Of Defense #DigInfo

Spherical Flying Machine Developed by Japan Ministry Of Defense #DigInfo:

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Daily Kos: How Airliners Work - Fuel System

Daily Kos: How Airliners Work - Fuel System: "We're not going anywhere in our airliner without fuel - lots of it. Until someone builds a practical electric aircraft, probably quite a few years down the road, we have to burn hydrocarbons to make this thing go.

So let's take a look at what we're burning and how we get it to the engines."

'via Blog this'

Superstorm Sandy Cleanup Unearths Giant Prize for Lucky Landscaper | Video | TheBlaze.com

Superstorm Sandy Cleanup Unearths Giant Prize for Lucky Landscaper | Video | TheBlaze.com: "With destruction from Superstorm Sandy destruction all around him, landscaper Marvin Rosales Martinez caught a glimpse of an object that didn’t seem to belong among the pile of leaves he was clearing."

'via Blog this'

Saturday, December 28, 2013

Algae to crude oil: Million-year natural process takes minutes in the lab - Conservative Byte

Algae to crude oil: Million-year natural process takes minutes in the lab - Conservative Byte: "Engineers at the US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have created a continuous process that produces useful crude oil minutes after harvested algae is introduced. This new process does not require drying out the algae, which grows in water, saving time and energy that would be otherwise wasted. The final product can be refined into aviation fuel, diesel, or gasoline."

'via Blog this'

Friday, December 27, 2013

Algae to crude oil: Million-year natural process takes minutes in the lab

Algae to crude oil: Million-year natural process takes minutes in the lab: "Engineers at the US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have created a continuous process that produces useful crude oil minutes after harvested algae is introduced. This new process does not require drying out the algae, which grows in water, saving time and energy that would be otherwise wasted. The final product can be refined into aviation fuel, diesel, or gasoline."

'via Blog this'

Spike S-512 could be the world's first supersonic business jet

Spike S-512 could be the world's first supersonic business jet: "With the Cessna Citation X set to receive FAA certification in early 2014 and knock the Gulfstream G650 off it's world's fastest civilian aircraft perch thanks to its maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935, Boston-based Spike Aerospace is looking to leave both those aircraft in its wake with its S-512. Spike says its S-512 will be the world's first supersonic business jet, boasting a cruising speed of Mach 1.6, and a maximum speed of Mach 1.8."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, December 26, 2013

Time to Stock Up on Incandescent Bulbs Before They Go Out Permanently

Time to Stock Up on Incandescent Bulbs Before They Go Out Permanently: "Beginning January 1, 2014, the federal government will ban the use of 60-watt and 40-watt incandescent light bulbs. The light bulb has become a symbol in the fight for consumer freedom and against unnecessary governmental interference into the lives of the American people."

'via Blog this'

5 best apps for commuters

5 best apps for commuters: "Commuting sucks, and its costs go beyond public-transit fares and gas-tank refills. The labor of getting to and from work robs you of productivity, and consumes time that you’d rather spend doing things you enjoy. It’s also hazardous to your health: Commuting can contribute to obesity, stress, and loneliness, and a commute longer than 45 minutes can even increase the likelihood that a couple will divorce."

'via Blog this'

Viper Home Starter Kit review: It's the software, stupid | TechHive

Viper Home Starter Kit review: It's the software, stupid | TechHive: "Jealousy. Cranky, burning jealousy is how a lot of home automation products make me feel. I’m sure the Nest thermostat is a neat device to use…if you have a thermostat, which I very much do not. Likewise, I’d love to test out the Goji Smart Lock next year, but my Luddite boyfriend is still rocking a feature phone, which rules that out too."

'via Blog this'

Prime was prime, as Amazon reports another record holiday | Internet & Media - CNET News

Prime was prime, as Amazon reports another record holiday | Internet & Media - CNET News: "It's become a sort of holiday tradition for CNET to offer a snapshot of just how merry Amazon's holiday sales have been, with a little help from the company's PR department. So here we go.
Amazon's annual post-Christmas press release boasts yet another record season, with more than 36.8 million items ordered worldwide on Cyber Monday -- that's 426 items per second. And more than half of Amazon customers shopped using a mobile device this holiday season."

'via Blog this'

Amazon: 5 bold predictions for 2014 | Internet & Media - CNET News

Amazon: 5 bold predictions for 2014 | Internet & Media - CNET News: "Amazon spent 2013 attempting to wow us and, for the most part, succeeded.
This year saw the debut of Amazon's Mayday customer service button -- the marquee feature for its newest line of Kindle Fire tablets -- the revival of the US Postal Service through Sunday delivery, and, of course, the frenzy of debate over autonomous flying robots serving as the next-generation of delivery men ahead of Cyber Monday.
Think Amazon out did itself in 2013? Well, get ready for even more eye-popping surprises in 2014."

'via Blog this'

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Robots to slingshots: A year in space, 2013

Robots to slingshots: A year in space, 2013: "This has been a busy year in space, with rovers roving on Mars and the first landing on the Moon in 40 years, the search for life beyond our Earth heating up, and 3D printing moving into orbit. As a Chinese rover explores the lunar surface and astronauts work to repair the International Space Station (ISS), Gizmag looks back on the space highlights of 2013."

'via Blog this'

Concept cars that could change transportation as we know it

Concept cars that could change transportation as we know it: "The average concept car experiments with styling, technology and packaging to explore potential new ideas. Some concept cars take it a few steps further, not just rethinking the car but redefining what a car is and exploring ideas that could completely revolutionize the way we get from point A to point B. From vehicles that drive themselves, to cars that fly and fold, some of 2013's most interesting concept cars provided a lens into a very different future."

'via Blog this'

2014 Jeep Cherokee gets disconnecting AWD technology

2014 Jeep Cherokee gets disconnecting AWD technology: "Set to debut in the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, the EcoTrac Disconnecting AWD driveline system is designed to improve fuel efficiency by disengaging components from the driveline when not required, so that only power is delivered to the front wheels."

'via Blog this'

McLaren's ultrasonic force field to replace windshield wipers

McLaren's ultrasonic force field to replace windshield wipers: "Windshield wipers are life-savers, but can also drive one to distraction with their incessant streaking and chattering. Well, the tyranny of the wipers may soon be over. McLaren Automotive’s chief designer Frank Stephenson has told The Sunday Times that the performance motoring company is investigating the use of "ultrasonic force fields" to replace windshield wipers in automobiles. While Stephenson referred to a military source for McLaren's tech, there appears to be very little public information on how such force fields might clean a windshield during a storm, so I'm taking a look at the patent history to see how this might be accomplished."

'via Blog this'

Spike puts laser measurement hardware on the back of a smartphone

Spike puts laser measurement hardware on the back of a smartphone: "Traditionally, the technology that goes into laser hardware for surveying and 3D modeling has been the plaything of architects, surveyors and engineers. But now, with a view to expanding into the consumer market, Virginia-based IkeGPS wants to bring this functionality to the mainstream. And what better way to do it than sticking it on the back of a smartphone?"

'via Blog this'

Portable scanner designed to make eye exams quicker and easier

Portable scanner designed to make eye exams quicker and easier: "If you're like a lot of people, you don't make an annual trip to the ophthalmologist to get your eyes checked ... and you really ought to, in order to catch any problems before it's too late. If it were possible to get them checked at a regular doctor's office or clinic, though, perhaps you might do so more often. That's one of the reasons that a team at MIT have designed a new hand-held retinal scanner, that can quickly and easily be used anywhere."

'via Blog this'

Monday, December 23, 2013

This Day In History • December 21, 1620: Pilgrims Come Ashore in...

This Day In History • December 21, 1620: Pilgrims Come Ashore in...: "On this day in 1620, the Mayflower Pilgrims’ first landing party came ashore in the unforgiving edge of southeastern Massachusetts in the present-day town of Plymouth."

'via Blog this'

NASA recreates Apollo 8 'Earthrise' 45 years after the mission | Mail Online

NASA recreates Apollo 8 'Earthrise' 45 years after the mission | Mail Online: "The Apollo 8 mission took place on December 24, 1968 and was the first time humans left Earth orbit and reached the moon
The three astronauts aboard - Frank Borman, James Lovell and Williams Anders - were responsible for taking 'Earthrise', one of history's most famous photos, capturing the earth rising over the moon
A new video released by NASA Friday recreates the events that allowed the trio to take the photo"

'via Blog this'

The train that NEVER stops moving | Mail Online

The train that NEVER stops moving | Mail Online: "The concept was created by Chinese designer Chen Jianjun
Passengers wait for the train inside a pod located on an elevated platform
As the train enters a station, the pod locks onto the roof at the front
Passengers descend into the train and the pod moves to the rear
People wanting to exit the train at the next station then climb into the pod
The pod detaches as it enters this stop, before collecting the next pod"

'via Blog this'

Lamborghini announces successor to the Gallardo – the 610 hp AWD Huracán

Lamborghini announces successor to the Gallardo – the 610 hp AWD Huracán: "Beginning next month, Lamborghini’s successor to the outgoing Gallardo will be showcased to the world on a 60 city, 130 event tour. The 610 hp Huracán LP 610-4, which sports all-wheel-drive and a more dynamic chassis, will need to work hard to surpass the Gallardo’s ten year sales record and impress its loyal fan following."

'via Blog this'

Hydrophobic Silic shirt repels sweat and stains

Hydrophobic Silic shirt repels sweat and stains: "We're still a long ways away from the self-drying clothing seen in Back to the Future II, but we may have a useful alternative in the form of a piece of clothing that never gets wet to begin with. Young entrepreneur Aamir Patel has developed the Silic shirt, which is made from a hydrophobic fabric that repels liquids away from it like a force field to keep it from getting wet."

'via Blog this'

New Audi R18 e-tron quattro racer shoots laser lights

New Audi R18 e-tron quattro racer shoots laser lights: "Audi calls the all-new R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 race car its most complex racer to date. The model has been completely redesigned around the 2014 season's new regulations, and it features more advanced technologies. One of those tech features, which Audi highlighted at the car's world premiere this week, is a set of laser headlights."

'via Blog this'

One-off fat trike attempts world record Antarctic trip

One-off fat trike attempts world record Antarctic trip: "Last winter, polar explorer Eric Larsen attempted to become the first person to cycle to the South Pole. Continually stymied by deep, unrideable snow, Larsen fell behind schedule and was forced to abandon the attempt. This year, several others are taking up the challenge. Thirty-five year-old British adventurer Maria Leijerstam is hoping the ticket to success is a fat-tired recumbent trike built to task."

'via Blog this'

Saturday, December 21, 2013

The Snowfall in Kamchatka, Russia is Absolutely Insane

The Snowfall in Kamchatka, Russia is Absolutely Insane: "You may think your town gets hit hard in the winter, but it’s nothing compared to what Reddit user awesomesauce1414 gets. There is a town in Russia named Kamchatka that gets so much snowfall during the winter, you can’t see cars or buildings. Every day is a blizzard."

'via Blog this'

Friday, December 20, 2013

AirMule unmanned VTOL aircraft flies towards full mission demonstration

AirMule unmanned VTOL aircraft flies towards full mission demonstration: "If you saw The Dark Knight Rises, then you no doubt remember the very cool-looking Batwing aircraft in which Mr. Wayne flew over the streets of Gotham. Perhaps you thought that while it was pretty impressive, there was no way that anything like it could work in real life. Well hey, guess what? The Batwing-like AirMule VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) prototype aircraft recently demonstrated its ability to fly autonomously, bringing it one step closer to carrying out a full mission demo."

'via Blog this'

Cutting the cord: Gizmag's Top 10 off-grid homes

Cutting the cord: Gizmag's Top 10 off-grid homes: "We're big fans of off-grid homes here at Gizmag – and for good reason: an off-grid home frees the owner from the vagaries of unscrupulous energy giants, can potentially help reduce impact on the environment, and offers a greater self-sufficiency. Join us as we shine a light on 10 of our favorites."

'via Blog this'

Hands-on with Google Glass' big December (XE12) update

Hands-on with Google Glass' big December (XE12) update: "Earlier this week, Google pushed out the last software update of 2013 to Google Glass Explorers. As Gizmag is now part of the Google Glass beta-testing party, we thought we'd give you our hands-on impressions of some of the new features."

'via Blog this'

How solar cells are taking over sea, sky and space

How solar cells are taking over sea, sky and space: "Solar technology has evolved beyond just your grandpa's big, bulky photovoltaic panels on the roof. Advances in flexible, hyper-efficient and nano-scale materials of late has made it possible for solar cells to begin popping up in all kinds of shapes and places you might not expect. Here's a quick rundown of some surprising spots where solar technology dwells – be sure to flip through the gallery to get a full grasp on the scale of the increasingly solar-powered landscape."

'via Blog this'

Air-powered Lego car hits the street

Air-powered Lego car hits the street: "The perfect do-it-yourself gift for budding designers and architects during the holiday season has to be Lego. The small blocks of plastic with millions of design outcomes have entertained many a child since the early 1950s. Now an ambitious duo has snapped together 500,000 pieces of the stuff to create the world’s first air-powered Lego roadster."

'via Blog this'

Once science fiction, it'll be reality in 2014 | Cutting Edge - CNET News

Once science fiction, it'll be reality in 2014 | Cutting Edge - CNET News: "Why wait for the future? We're ready for science fiction to become real.
As the calendar gets set to turn from 2013 to 2014, it's also time to get excited about the kinds of things that will be coming out in the new year that until now, would have been considered nothing but science fiction."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Starry Night - Vincent van Dominogh

Starry Night - Vincent van Dominogh:

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Netflix nabs Breaking Bad prequel Better Call Saul | TechHive

Netflix nabs Breaking Bad prequel Better Call Saul | TechHive: "Better Call Saul , the forthcoming Breaking Bad spin-off starring Bob Odenkirk, is headed to Netflix for your eventual binge-watching pleasure.

Netflix subscribers in Europe and Latin America will get first crack at the show, with episodes streaming “within days” of the U.S. broadcast."

'via Blog this'

General Atomics tests UAV that can "sense and avoid" other aircraft

General Atomics tests UAV that can "sense and avoid" other aircraft: "General Atomics Aeronautical System, Inc. (GA-ASI), the maker of the Predator and Reaper Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has successfully completed the first of several flight tests of a prototype Sense and Avoid (SAA) system that allows a UAV to operate safely around other aircraft in flight. This marked the first time the entire system – consisting of a radar, transponder, and traffic alert system – worked together as a “system of systems” to detect the various types of aircraft it might encounter in the air."

'via Blog this'

Grading the Big Four: How did your wireless carrier rate in 2013? | TechHive

Grading the Big Four: How did your wireless carrier rate in 2013? | TechHive: "The big wireless carriers have few qualms about charging customers for sending and receiving texts, despite the fact that providing the service costs them virtually nothing.

Your carrier is ripping you off."

'via Blog this'

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Snooperscope adds night vision to smartphone cameras

Snooperscope adds night vision to smartphone cameras: "Ever since Paris Hilton and her night vision outtakes took center stage, the technology has grown exponentially in popularity. Now, a product called Snooperscope aims to bring similar technology to the masses through the use of smartphones and tablets."

'via Blog this'

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Duck Dynasty star skips Barbara Walters interview…but it’s why he did it that’s awesome! | Young Conservatives

Duck Dynasty star skips Barbara Walters interview…but it’s why he did it that’s awesome! | Young Conservatives: "So Phil skipped out on Barbara to go duck hunting. I wonder if PETA will send him a ridiculous letter like the one they sent the girl who was mauled by a bear?"

'via Blog this'

Top performance supercars and concepts of 2013

Top performance supercars and concepts of 2013: "We've already taken a look at the best green concept cars of 2013; now it's time to turn our attention to the other end of the car-tech spectrum and focus on full-blown, engine-growling, asphalt-scarring performance cars. The year was a big one for high-tech, high-priced supercar hardware, seeing the restart of several iconic lineages, extravagant special-edition birthday presents, and numerous all-new start-ups with intriguing ideas."

'via Blog this'

Taking a peek at the Royal Navy's next nuclear-powered ballistic missile sub

Taking a peek at the Royal Navy's next nuclear-powered ballistic missile sub: "As part of an update to Parliament on the progress of the Trident replacement program, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has released a concept image of the Royal Navy’s next ballistic nuclear missile submarine. This coincides with the awarding of two contracts to BAE Systems Maritime-Submarines for £47 million (US$76 million) and £32 million (US$60 million) to begin preliminary design work on the nuclear-powered submarines, currently called the Successor class, which are intended to replace the Navy’s aging fleet of of Vanguard-class boats by 2028."

'via Blog this'

AmazonFresh vs. supermarket: A hands-on shopping test | Internet & Media - CNET News

AmazonFresh vs. supermarket: A hands-on shopping test | Internet & Media - CNET News: "In 1999, an online grocery-shipping company caught my attention. As a kid who had absolutely no say in what made the pantry cut, I shouldn't have cared so much. But the idea of summoning a pile of food through a few mouse clicks was simply magical."

'via Blog this'

Monday, December 16, 2013

Iorca Chic Bed

Iorca Chic Bed: "Sure, you can hide under the bed when aliens come and invade your home at 3 AM. We're going to bet it won't help you steer clear of their radar all that much, though. You need a more inconspicuous hiding place to trick the extraterrestrials into thinking there's no one home and this Iorca Chic Bed will probably do the trick."

'via Blog this'

Big Rig Pedal Powered Desk

Big Rig Pedal Powered Desk: "The Big Rig is a large work desk and stationary bike combo that also happens to be a kinetic generator, producing power from your pedaling motions that you can use to charge gadgets, power laptops and electrocute yourself for whatever reason it might serve you.  Sure, you may laugh at someone who chooses to torture themselves with bicycling endlessly just to create trickles of power, but when the apocalypse happens and the power grid goes down, whoever owns one of these things will end up the one laughing at your face."

'via Blog this'

That Helps No One Week 15: Matt Cassel - NFL.com

That Helps No One Week 15: Matt Cassel - NFL.com: "Well, that didn’t take long. Matt Cassel caught our attention early on as he started lighting up the scoreboard shortly after the opening kickoff in Minnesota. He had the early lead for the Week 15 That Helps No One award, and after a few more quarters of scoring at will against the Eagles’ defense, he had it locked up. Minnesota finished with 48 points today, which was by far their largest offensive output in any game this season. Without Adrian Peterson or Toby Gerhart to hand off the ball to, practically no one expected Matt Cassel to move the Vikings offense effectively, if at all. Which is why Cassel hanging 29.18 fantasy points on the Eagles was such a surprise, and worthy of this week’s award."

'via Blog this'

Top 10 things you CAN'T have for Christmas 2013

Top 10 things you CAN'T have for Christmas 2013: "Luxury, so they say, comes at a price, but in the world of innovation and new technology, things can sometimes get way out of hand. It's with this in mind that each year we compile a list of the most expensive, ambitious and completely over-the-top products and ideas that have crossed our desk in the past 12 months. So from the praiseworthy to the preposterous, here's Gizmag's list of the top 10 things you won't be getting for Christmas in 2013."

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Saturday, December 14, 2013

How To Read A Map — www.bassresource.com — Readability

How To Read A Map — www.bassresource.com — Readability: "Hey, guys. This is Gene Jensen with BassResource.com. In my opinion, if you want to become the best fisherman you can possibly be, you've got to know how to read a topo map, or how to read a lake map. That's what I'm going to talk about today. I'm going to talk about what are the different things you're looking at on a topo map, what the contour lines mean. I'm going to talk about a bunch of things, so let's go ahead and get things started and dive right into a map."

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▶ Amazing Facts To Blow Your Mind Pt. 3 - YouTube

▶ Amazing Facts To Blow Your Mind Pt. 3 - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

▶ Amazing Facts to Blow Your Mind Pt. 2 - YouTube

▶ Amazing Facts to Blow Your Mind Pt. 2 - YouTube: ""

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Amazing Facts to Blow Your Mind Pt. 1 - YouTube

Amazing Facts to Blow Your Mind Pt. 1 - YouTube: ""

'via Blog this'

Friday, December 13, 2013

Light your tree with your phone — howto.cnet.com — Readability

Light your tree with your phone — howto.cnet.com — Readability: "I will admit right at the top here that the following how-to is more fun than practical. You should try it anyway.

There's never been a high-tech distraction this inexplicably amusing to me since the invention of kittens and laser pointers (they really should come bundled)."

'via Blog this'

HEL-MD takes out mortars and UAVs with vehicle-mounted laser

HEL-MD takes out mortars and UAVs with vehicle-mounted laser: "High energy laser weapons are a hot area of research with companies including Lockheed Martin, Rheinmetall and Northrop Grumman all developing systems. Boeing is also in the mix with its High Energy Laser Mobile Demonstrator (HEL MD), which is being put through its paces by the US Army. Between November 18 and December 10, the HEL MD successfully took out mortar rounds and UAVs in flight, marking a first for the vehicle-mounted system."

'via Blog this'

Toymail lets families send messages to kids' toys

Toymail lets families send messages to kids' toys: "How can you mail a simple hello or send your love to kids too young to pick up a phone? Here's a thought – send them messages through their toys instead. Toymail, the brainchild of Clocky's inventor Gauri Nanda, lets anyone send messages to kids through cute smart toys that act as voice messengers."

'via Blog this'

Rinspeed shows what the self-driving car will be like to ride in

Rinspeed shows what the self-driving car will be like to ride in: "Autonomous driving has consistently made headlines throughout 2013, with car companies showcasing development vehicles and detailing individual components that will help usher in the era of the self-driving car, like adaptive cruise control and self-parking systems. But, if they really want to get us excited about autonomous technology, what they should be doing is showing us a clear vision of what all those technologies are leading to: a car that drives itself while you drink your coffee and read the paper as if you're still in your recliner at home. That's the tack automotive think tank Rinspeed has taken with its new XchangE concept car."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, December 12, 2013

The meaning of "Doom" — www.economist.com — Readability

The meaning of "Doom" — www.economist.com — Readability: "TWENTY years ago today, a small Texas company called id Software uploaded a file to an FTP server at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. That file was "Doom", one of the few video games that almost everybody has heard of. It sold in the millions, has been converted to run on almost any computing hardware available, and still boasts a dedicated community today, something virtually unheard of for something as ephemeral as a video game."

'via Blog this'

Final design of Platypus underwater exploration vehicle revealed

Final design of Platypus underwater exploration vehicle revealed: "After four years of development and months of prototype testing, Platypus founder Francois Alexandre Bertrand and his team have decided on the final design for their Platypus underwater exploration vehicle that will be launched next year. Aside from sporting a more polished look, the final production version also includes a number of newly-announced features."

'via Blog this'

"Coolest" cooler chills, blends and plays music

"Coolest" cooler chills, blends and plays music: "A good cooler keeps your drinks chilled during a picnic, backyard BBQ or camping trip. The Coolest not only does that, but it also mixes up frosty margaritas and plays music for your party. With the docking grill, it even cooks your food. Its designer hopes to get the feature-packed cooler to picnics and tailgates next year"

'via Blog this'

Google reportedly launching a Nexus-branded set-top box — www.techhive.com — Readability

Google reportedly launching a Nexus-branded set-top box — www.techhive.com — Readability: "Google is nothing if not persistent. The Information (warning: paywall) reports that Google will be launching a Nexus-branded set-top box as early as the first half of next year."

'via Blog this'

New on Netflix, five of 2013's best films — www.techhive.com — Readability

New on Netflix, five of 2013's best films — www.techhive.com — Readability: "It’s almost the end of the year, which means soon we’ll start seeing various tastemakers trotting out those traditional lists of the best music, books, and of course movies. But this year is better than usual—as it happens five of the best, most enjoyable movies of 2013 are newly available streaming on Netflix. We also picked some of the best films from past years, from 2009 all the way back to 1950, also new to Netflix. Of course, it’s all a game, choices are personal, and opinions change over time. But for now, these 10 are a great start—see if any make your own best-of-all-time list."

'via Blog this'

Monday, December 9, 2013

Ultimate Ears Boom Review and Giveaway — www.makeuseof.com — Readability

Ultimate Ears Boom Review and Giveaway — www.makeuseof.com — Readability: "In the past year, I’ve had the chance to review two excellent and portable Bluetooth speakers. Both the UE Mobile Boombox and the Jawbone Mini Jambox have impressed me so much, I was almost tempted to keep them both, redundant as that may seem. So imagine my excitement when the chance cropped up to review what should be superior to them both — the Ultimate Ears Boom."

'via Blog this'

DARPA developing giant folding space telescope

DARPA developing giant folding space telescope: "DARPA has announced planes to use a foldable plastic lens to “break the glass ceiling” of space telescopes. It’s part of the agency’s Membrane Optical Imager for Real-Time Exploitation (MOIRE) program, which aims at replacing conventional glass optics with lightweight polymer membranes that may one day make possible a foldable plastic orbital telescope 20 m (65 ft) wide that will be capable of seeing a medium-sized dog on Earth from 36,000 km (22,000 mi) away."

'via Blog this'

Wokart: The 70 km/h go-kart for the water

Wokart: The 70 km/h go-kart for the water: "The Wokart is a featherweight asymmetric catamaran with a centrally-located 70 hp outboard motor that's designed to have the driving characteristics and low power-to-weight of a go-kart."

'via Blog this'

Effective, safe, and pleasant-smelling mosquito control could be on the way

Effective, safe, and pleasant-smelling mosquito control could be on the way: "Methods for controlling mosquitoes usually take two tacks: luring the mosquitoes into a trap away from humans, or discouraging them from biting at the source. Both methods can be expensive, unhealthy, cumbersome, or disgusting (the smell of rancid butter, anyone?) and generally aren’t scalable for the countries that suffer the most from mosquito-borne disease. New research explores how a mosquito’s neurons actually detect humans, and presents a promising class of chemicals, screened for safety, cost, and an appealing scent, some of which attract mosquitoes and others of which mask the smell of tasty human skin."

'via Blog this'

Saturday, December 7, 2013

US Navy launches drone from submerged submarine — www.gizmag.com — Readability

US Navy launches drone from submerged submarine — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Today, the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) announced that it had successfully launched a drone from a submerged submarine. The all-electric eXperimental Fuel Cell Unmanned Aerial System (XFC) was launched in the Bahamas from the Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) using a system that allowed the drone to be deployed without modifications to the boat, or requiring it to surface."

'via Blog this'

National Geographic puts more than 500 historic maps on Google | The Verge

National Geographic puts more than 500 historic maps on Google | The Verge: "National Geographic and Google are trying to recreate the thrill of cracking open one of the magazine's signature paper maps, but in the digital world. A new project puts more than 500 of National Geographic's 800 historic maps online using Google's Maps Engine platform."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Research Your Family Tree Online

Research Your Family Tree Online: "Your computer plays games, and with it you can check email or browse the web. You might develop presentations, run your finances through a spreadsheet and even contribute to a crowdsourced research project. But did you know that your computer can also tell you who you are, and where you came from?"

'via Blog this'

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

▶ iPad Art - Morgan Freeman Finger Painting - YouTube

▶ iPad Art - Morgan Freeman Finger Painting - YouTube: "
The guy painted this with his finger on an ipad.  What a talent.

"

'via Blog this'

Water-repellant surface so efficient that drops bounce back off — arstechnica.com — Readability

Water-repellant surface so efficient that drops bounce back off — arstechnica.com — Readability: "In recent years, water-repelling materials have gotten better and better at their job of fearing water. But even the best hydrophobic surfaces still take their time when repelling water. This becomes an issue when the surfaces you want to keep water-free operate in freezing conditions. If water is not repelled quickly, it can freeze and end up stuck there."

'via Blog this'

Amazon reveals Prime Air drone capable of 30 minute deliveries — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Amazon reveals Prime Air drone capable of 30 minute deliveries — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "As early as 2015, your Amazon purchases could be dropped at your door within 30 minutes courtesy of unmanned aerial drones. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos revealed plans for the delivery service Prime Air (an extension of Amazon Prime which guarantees two-day shipping) in a 60 Minutes interview on Sunday night."

'via Blog this'

World's largest ship floated for the first time — www.gizmag.com — Readability

World's largest ship floated for the first time — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "A hull longer than the Empire State Building is tall has been floated out of dry dock in Geoje, South Korea. Measuring 488 m (1,601 ft) long and 74 m (243 ft) wide, the hull belongs to Shell's Prelude floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility, which upon completion will be the largest floating facility ever built."

'via Blog this'

Visionary or vaporous? Zoox Level 4 autonomous, bi-directional electric vehicle

Visionary or vaporous? Zoox Level 4 autonomous, bi-directional electric vehicle: "he Boz is not a car, and you won't be able to buy it. According to new start-up Zoox, the Boz is the transportation paradigm that comes after the car. It's but a fanciful idea from an unknown start-up for now, but the company believes it can finish its thought by 2021"

'via Blog this'

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Amazing Custom Bed Folds Into a Chest For Easy Storage

Amazing Custom Bed Folds Into a Chest For Easy Storage: "You may think this is just a simple, but beautiful, chest… but it is so much more. This custom, hand-crafted box contains a surprise inside that is even more beautiful. Watch as it unfolds and transforms into something both functional and gorgeous. You’ll want one for your house immediately."

'via Blog this'

Saturday, November 30, 2013

World's 10 Fastest Supercomputers [Infographic]

World's 10 Fastest Supercomputers [Infographic]: "The speed at which our technology grows and expands is incredible, but sometimes as an average consumer it is hard to always keep current. New computers come out seemingly every day with slightly more processing power and versatility than the models right before them, and before long they’ll be outpaced too. Imagine that problem on a massive scale, though: working at a research institute, and trying to keep up with constantly growing power of the behemoths known as supercomputers"

'via Blog this'

Techsplanations: Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

Techsplanations: Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles: "Consumers, however, often shy up when presented with the option of a hydrogen-powered vehicle. They think of "H-bombs," or the explosion of the Hindenburg. But that's pretty silly when you consider we handle 15 to 25 gallons of highly volatile gasoline in our vehicles now.

As the U.S. struggles politically and culturally to map out a logical energy future, hydrogen doesn't get a lot of attention. Most of the talk is about battery-powered electric vehicles and gas-electric hybrids that can run on either gasoline, electricity, or a combination of both simultaneously. But to mark Earth Day 2012, we want to shed some light on perhaps the most abundant energy solution of all for our vehicles – hydrogen."

'via Blog this'

Friday, November 29, 2013

Test Drive: Tesla Model S

Test Drive: Tesla Model S: "Having been available for just over a year now, Tesla’s Model S has received its fair share of acclaim, and its fair share of criticism. So what’s it like to drive this 416 hp all-electric, and how does it compare to other premium sedans? Gizmag went to Palo Alto to find out first hand."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, November 28, 2013

LED carpet turns the floor into a screen — www.newscientist.com — Readability

LED carpet turns the floor into a screen — www.newscientist.com — Readability: "BIG-SCREEN TV not involving enough? How about a giant LED-studded carpet that transforms the floor into a vivid display? The design could let animated characters step out of your TV and whizz across the floor or guide passengers at an airport."

'via Blog this'

Helium Bluetooth speakers powered by supercapacitors

Helium Bluetooth speakers powered by supercapacitors: "Sharing music with friends through laptop or smartphone speakers can be less than satisfying, which perhaps goes some way to explaining the overwhelming choice of portable Bluetooth speakers that come into view as you enter a consumer electronics store. Such offerings all suffer the same problem, though. Just as you're getting your groove on, the built-in battery dies and you have to wait hours while it juices up from a wall socket. What mobile music lovers like me need are wireless speakers that can charge in minutes, and then last for hours. An impossible dream? Sam Beck from Portland's Blueshift doesn't think so. He's developed mono and stereo portable Bluetooth speakers powered by supercapacitors. Helium users can look forward to a super quick charge time, hours of full volume playback and years of recharge cycles before needing to consider a capacitor refresh."

'via Blog this'

ABH20 skis bring cross country skiing to the water

ABH20 skis bring cross country skiing to the water: "Decades ago, a few individuals looked at what skiers were doing on snow and thought, "Why can't I do that on a board?" Thus, the sport of snowboarding was born, and it eventually exploded in popularity. On the water, the opposite is happening. The sport of paddleboarding has been growing in popularity and some folks are thinking, "Why can't I do that on skis?" With the Slovenian-designed ABH20 skis, you can. Strap a pair on and you can walk on water."

'via Blog this'

Top 10 concept cars and special editions of the 2013 LA Auto Show

Top 10 concept cars and special editions of the 2013 LA Auto Show: "Whereas the concepts of the Frankfurt Motor Show were largely about flash styling and new packaging, the concepts and cars of this month's Los Angeles Auto Show were more focused on forward-thinking technology and green design. Fuel cells, hybrid powertrains and self-driving systems were themes across several models. Of course, there was still plenty of flash and hot styling, too."

'via Blog this'

Review: ThermaCELL Heated Insoles

Review: ThermaCELL Heated Insoles: "ThermaCELL released its wirelessly-controlled Heated Insoles in 2012, and I've been wondering about them ever since. A local store couldn't keep the things in stock last winter, yet I've also seen more than a few user reviews stating that they just don't work. Given that I live somewhere where cold toes are a common problem for several months a year, I really wanted to know what the case was ... and I figured that lots of other people would like to know, too. I got the company to send me a pair, in order to find out."

'via Blog this'

Taizhou Bridge awarded supreme structural engineering gong

Taizhou Bridge awarded supreme structural engineering gong: "The 2,940-m (9,650-ft) long Taizhou Bridge has won the Supreme Award for Structural Engineering Excellence at this year's Structural Awards. The event gives the nod to a variety of structures across numerous categories, but it was the three-tower, long-span suspension bridge, the first of its kind, which received the overall "Supreme" gong."

'via Blog this'

How to clean Stainless Steel Appliances — www.instructables.com — Readability

How to clean Stainless Steel Appliances — www.instructables.com — Readability: "If you own a stainless steel appliance, you know that it rarely ever lives up to its name. It is hardly ever stainless! I cannot seem to remember a time when finger print marks and water stains did not decorate the surfaces of my dishwasher, oven and refrigerator. Woe is stainless steel!"

'via Blog this'

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Video: Duck Dynasty Offers Thanksgiving Turkey Tips — www.outdoorhub.com — Readability

Video: Duck Dynasty Offers Thanksgiving Turkey Tips — www.outdoorhub.com — Readability: "Jase and Si Robertson of the hit A&E show Duck Dynasty partner with State Farm in this informative commercial about the art of turkey frying. While there are no ducks or duck calls here, Jase and Si still find themselves running into bird-related troubles"

'via Blog this'

20K House project aims to make home ownership more affordable

20K House project aims to make home ownership more affordable: "For many people, the chance of owning their own house is very slim indeed. However, the 20K House project by Rural Studio, an off-campus design-build program of Auburn University, aims to tackle this, and make house ownership possible for more people with an attractive and safe modern property for just US$20,000."

'via Blog this'

New Wave Energy wants to put power plants in the sky

New Wave Energy wants to put power plants in the sky: "Harvesting power from the wind and the sun is nothing new. We've seen flying wind turbines and solar power plants that aim to provide clean renewable energy. UK-based New Wave Energy has a bolder idea in the works. The company plans to build the first high altitude aerial power plant, using networks of unmanned drones that can harvest energy from multiple sources and transmit it wirelessly to receiving stations on the ground."

'via Blog this'

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Totally Random and Obsucre Laws that Actually Exist

Totally Random and Obsucre Laws that Actually Exist: "20 useless laws you didn't know were real"

'via Blog this'

Zee.Aero's flying car concept would fit in a standard parking space

Zee.Aero's flying car concept would fit in a standard parking space: "Zee.Aero, a small company located near the GooglePlex, home to Google, is working on a flying car concept that can take off and land vertically using a plethora of small electric motors turning four-bladed propellers. According to illustrations included with the patent filings, one version of the vehicle is narrow enough to fit into a standard shopping center parking space."

'via Blog this'

Transparent HeadsUP! display puts smartphone apps in your face

Transparent HeadsUP! display puts smartphone apps in your face: "Smartphone heads-up display systems that project navigation and other information onto car windshields are seen as a way to reduce driver distraction. The HeadsUP! from tech start-up NeXt takes a different approach. Rather than relying on projection, this system is based around a transparent display mounted in front of the windshield that gives drivers control of their most commonly used phone applications without taking their eyes off the road."

'via Blog this'

Hammerhead UAV takes to the skies over Italy

Hammerhead UAV takes to the skies over Italy: "There was an unusual shape in the skies over Italy last week as the Piaggio Aero Company and Selex ES successfully completed the first flight of the aptly-named Hammerhead UAV on Thursday, November 14, near the Trapini Air Force Base. The aircraft was remotely controlled from the ground, with no crew on board, while two chase planes kept the UAV in sight during the flight."

'via Blog this'

Bridgestone's pedal-electric trike looks sharp, and might reach production

Bridgestone's pedal-electric trike looks sharp, and might reach production: "When you think of Bridgestone, you probably think of tires. The fact is, though, the company also makes bicycles, golf equipment, and has tried its hand at motorcycles. Bridgestone designer Shungo Fujita decided to combine all three things in one stunning concept vehicle – a pedal-electric trike that can carry a set of golf clubs."

'via Blog this'

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Tardigrades what are they

Tardigrades what are they: "The toughest creature on earth is likely one that you have never heard of, it’s called a Tardigrade, also commonly referred to as a water bear, or moss piglet. This creature is about .039 of an inch long full when full grown, it's small but tough. "

'via Blog this'

The hottest place on Earth

The hottest place on Earth: "I know for a fact that I wouldn't want to live there, but having the title seems to be important to the places that are claiming it.

There has been some dispute and controversy over the past 90 years about what place on Earth holds the record for the highest temperature reading. In July 1913 there was an official reading at Furnace Creek in Death Valley of 134 degrees. In 1922 there was a temperature recorded in Northern Libya of 136 degrees, that took the record away from Death Valley."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Alex Karras, '60s NFL Lineman with Dementia, Dies at 77

Cool guy passed away

Alex Karras, '60s NFL Lineman with Dementia, Dies at 77: "Former gridiron star Alex Karras, formally diagnosed with dementia and having lived with its symptoms for more than a dozen years, died Wednesday at the age of 77.

Karras, a tackle for the Detroit Lions, was drafted by the team in 1958 and played with the Lions until he retired in 1970. Having had multiple concussions over that 12 year span, he was one of the most recognized names on the roster of 3,500 former National Football League players who filed suit against the league for misleading them about the dangers of concussions and the resulting condition now known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)."

'via Blog this'

918 Spyder is quicker than Porsche thought

918 Spyder is quicker than Porsche thought: "Ever since the Porsche 918 Spyder debuted as a might-never-be concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, we knew it was quick. But we didn't know just how quick. In preparation of the first 918 deliveries, Porsche has announced that the hybrid supercar outperforms the company's previous, already-impressive performance estimates."

'via Blog this'

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

EcoTrek's sturdy camper built to go off-road with aplomb

EcoTrek's sturdy camper built to go off-road with aplomb: "The Ecotrek 510 camper is designed for one purpose and one purpose only: surviving any rugged obstacle thrown its way so you can sleep soundly that night. That one purpose opens it up to all kinds of uses – hunting, fishing, 4x4ing, etc. No cutesy teardrop design, the 510 has a reinforced build meant to thrive in terrain that would rip lesser campers to shreds."

'via Blog this'

Road-legal Batmobile replica up for auction

Road-legal Batmobile replica up for auction: "Historics auction house in Surrey, UK, is listing a fully road-legal Batmobile for sale. It’s not an original – the car is a replica of the vehicle used by Michael Keaton in Tim Burton’s 1989 and 1992 movies – but Historics lists the piece as an "extremely well conceived tribute.""

'via Blog this'

Accidental Discovery Dramatically Improves Electrical Conductivity — www.itechpost.com — Readability

Accidental Discovery Dramatically Improves Electrical Conductivity — www.itechpost.com — Readability: "Quite by accident, Washington State University researchers have achieved a 400-fold increase in the electrical conductivity of a crystal simply by exposing it to light. The effect, which lasted for days after the light was turned off, could dramatically improve the performance of devices like computer chips."

'via Blog this'

Boeing's fuel-efficient 777X features folding wings

Boeing's fuel-efficient 777X features folding wings: "Boeing has launched its newest airliner, the 777X, at the 2013 Dubai Airshow. The aircraft is designed with folding wing-tips that will increase wingspan and, as a result, fuel efficiency without limiting access at airports.

"

'via Blog this'

Polaris' military-grade WV850 HO ATV rolls on non-pneumatic tires — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Polaris' military-grade WV850 HO ATV rolls on non-pneumatic tires — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "There’s nothing that ruins going to work like having your tires shot out with a .50 caliber machine gun round. If that happens to you a lot, and your commute is across open fields and through the woods, you might want to consider the Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO with Terrain Armor. This military-grade All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) abandons traditional inflatable tires for Non-Pneumatic Tires (NPT) that feature a flexible polymer honeycomb."

'via Blog this'

The Platypus: Underwater vehicle creator thinks outside the bubble — www.gizmag.com — Readability

The Platypus: Underwater vehicle creator thinks outside the bubble — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Vehicles such as the EGO semi-submarine boat and Adventure-Doo are designed to bring the underwater action within reach of those without the time or inclination to put in the training required to get behind the controls of personal submarines like the offerings from U-boat Worx. But the Platypus underwater exploration vehicle from François-Alexandre Bertrand ditches the waterproof hull while giving users a taste of life beneath the waves. We first looked at the Platypus in concept form in 2011 and a prototype has now hit the water as it navigates the often-treacherous waters to commercial availability."

'via Blog this'

Lawsuit Paid In Full: Samsung pays Apple $1 Billion sending 30 trucks full of 5 cent coins |

Lawsuit Paid In Full: Samsung pays Apple $1 Billion sending 30 trucks full of 5 cent coins |: "This morning more than 30 trucks filled with 5-cent coins arrived at Apple’s headquarters in California. Initially, the security company that protects the facility said the trucks were in the wrong place, but minutes later, Tim Cook (Apple CEO) received a call from Samsung CEO explaining that they will pay $1 billion dollars for the fine recently ruled against the South Korean company in this way"

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Sunday, November 17, 2013

'So, that's why it's called Bluetooth!' and other surprising tech name origins — www.techhive.com — Readability

'So, that's why it's called Bluetooth!' and other surprising tech name origins — www.techhive.com — Readability: "The startup world is filled with all manner of intentionally misspelled nonwords and incomprehensible baby talk. It’s enough to make one nostalgic for an earlier time when tech names actually meant something.

The stories of how some of the world’s biggest brands and technologies came up with their names open a window to a different era—a simpler time before Web squatters took all the normal names and corporations focus-grouped language to death."

'via Blog this'

Two research groups create active invisibility cloaks — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Two research groups create active invisibility cloaks — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Sometimes everything can seem to happen at once. The new game in town is active invisibility cloaks (AIC), which use electronics and antennas to generate a cloaking field to hide an object. Two types of active cloaks have just been revealed (excuse the pun). While being impressive feats of technology, such cloaks could easily be defeated in practice."

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Lithium-air batteries go viral for greater durability and performance — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Lithium-air batteries go viral for greater durability and performance — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "In recent years, lithium-air batteries that promise improved power density per pound over lithium-ion batteries have been the subject of much research in the quest to give electronic vehicles greater range. By enlisting the help of a genetically-modified virus, researchers at MIT have found a way to improve the performance and durability of lithium-air batteries, which offer the potential of two to three times the energy density of current lithium-ion batteries."

'via Blog this'

Hybrid ESTOLAS aircraft combines aspects of a plane, helicopter, hovercraft and airship — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Hybrid ESTOLAS aircraft combines aspects of a plane, helicopter, hovercraft and airship — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "As evidenced by ongoing efforts in the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, getting aid and support personnel in and victims out of disaster-stricken areas is a major problem when infrastructure such as runways has been rendered unusable. A new aircraft concept combining features of an airship, plane, helicopter and hovercraft that is being developed as part of the European Commission's Extremely Short Take Off and Landing On any Surface (ESTOLAS) project could help address the problem."

'via Blog this'

BXR reveals its garage-built Bailey Blade XTR supercar — www.gizmag.com — Readability

BXR reveals its garage-built Bailey Blade XTR supercar — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "As promised earlier this year, BXR Motors has revealed the Bailey Blade XTR, a garage build turned visceral supercar. After working well into the 11th hour to ready the 750-hp sports car, BXR debuted it at last week's SEMA Show."

'via Blog this'

Jupiter mystery solved: Why the giant planet's mysterious Great Red Spot has not disappeared — www.sciencedaily.com — Readability

Jupiter mystery solved: Why the giant planet's mysterious Great Red Spot has not disappeared — www.sciencedaily.com — Readability: "Pedram Hassanzadeh, a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University, and Philip Marcus, a professor of fluid dynamics at the University of California, Berkeley, think they can explain why. Their work, which Hassanzadeh will present at the annual meeting of the American Physical Society's Division of Fluid Dynamics in Pittsburgh on November 25, also provides insight into persistent ocean eddies and vortices that contribute to star and planet formation."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Over 50% of Harvard, Princeton, and MIT Students Get This Simple Question Wrong — www.theblaze.com — Readability

Over 50% of Harvard, Princeton, and MIT Students Get This Simple Question Wrong — www.theblaze.com — Readability: "Let’s play a little game. Let’s see if you can outsmart some of the students at the country’s most prestigious institutions. Read the following question and see if you can get the correct answer:"

'via Blog this'

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Save Energy the Smart Way -- Don't Fall for These Myths — www.mythbusters.com — Readability

Save Energy the Smart Way -- Don't Fall for These Myths — www.mythbusters.com — Readability: "It never hurts to try to save energy. By doing so, you are being earth-friendly and saving yourself some hard-earned money. But don't believe everything you hear. Check out these myths about energy consumption before you start on your energy-saving campaign."

'via Blog this'

QU-BD One Up: A 3D printer for under US$200 — www.gizmag.com — Readability

QU-BD One Up: A 3D printer for under US$200 — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The home 3D printing revolution has picked up pace in recent times with printers such as the MakiBox and Buccaneer making 3D printing increasingly more affordable. Although not as cheap as the homemade LEGObot, the QU-BD One Up is claiming the title of the world's cheapest production-ready 3D printer with a price tag of under US$200."

'via Blog this'

DIWire desktop machine bends wire into 3D sculptures — www.gizmag.com — Readability

DIWire desktop machine bends wire into 3D sculptures — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Over a year ago, Pensa Labs caught our attention with its impressive DIWire Bender, a small machine that bends thick wires into elaborate 3D shapes by following simple vector drawings. Since then, the company has been refining the wooden prototype we saw before into a sleek fabrication device that's fit for consumers. The result is a more compact, easier-to-use DIWire that can turn pieces of wire into creative 3D sculptures while sitting comfortably on a desktop."

'via Blog this'

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Amazon will now deliver packages on Sundays — bgr.com — Readability

Amazon will now deliver packages on Sundays — bgr.com — Readability: "In a surprising move that could give Amazon another huge advantage over rivals, the company on Monday announced that it will begin delivering packages to customers in two major metropolitan areas on Sundays. Working with the United States Postal Service, Amazon customers in the New York and Los Angeles regions will begin receiving deliveries on Sundays. “If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can order a backpack for your child on Friday and be packing it for them Sunday night,” said Amazon’s operations VP Dave Clark. “We’re excited that now every day is an Amazon delivery day and we know our Prime members, who voraciously shop on Amazon, will love the additional convenience they will experience as part of this new service.”"

'via Blog this'

Amazing Veterans Day Memorial Designed to Only Work for a Moment Once a Year – PictureCorrect

Amazing Veterans Day Memorial Designed to Only Work for a Moment Once a Year – PictureCorrect:

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Monday, November 11, 2013

Duck Commander’s Phil Robertson Shatters One-millionth Duck Call Milestone — www.outdoorhub.com — Readability

Duck Commander’s Phil Robertson Shatters One-millionth Duck Call Milestone — www.outdoorhub.com — Readability: "Phil Robertson speaks to a crowd of fans and customers as he recalls the story of his first duck call.

On Thursday, Duck Commander founder Phil Robertson assembled the company’s one millionth duck call of the year. It was the first year since the company opened its doors in 1972 that it reached this particular benchmark, and the Robertson family could not be more pleased."

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Happy 238th Birthday Marines! - The Few, The Proud, The Marines — freedomoutpost.com — Readability

Happy 238th Birthday Marines! - The Few, The Proud, The Marines — freedomoutpost.com — Readability: "Today, November 10, 2013 is the 238th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. They are the finest fighting force in the world, and seeing that my uncle is a Marine and that we have so many serving our country, I wanted to take time to issue a "Thank You" to all those currently serving, those who have served and those who have died in the service of the United States as Marines. Semper Fi!"

'via Blog this'

Obama Lies About Lying While Lying — eaglerising.com — Readability

Obama Lies About Lying While Lying — eaglerising.com — Readability: "In a recent speech to his supporters, President Obama denied ever saying that “if you like the healthcare you have, you can keep it. If you like your doctor, you can keep them.”

It seems that the President is trying to blame his political opponents for his own broken promises."

'via Blog this'

NBC to televise first Virgin Galactic commercial flight — www.gizmag.com — Readability

NBC to televise first Virgin Galactic commercial flight — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "NBCUniversal has signed an exclusive partnership with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic to televise the space tourism company's first commercial passenger flight. Expected to take place next August, the flight will covered in a special three-hour edition of the US NBC network's Today program. Aboard the VSS Enterprise, will be Sir Richard, age 63, and his children, Holly, 31, and Sam, 28. The other passengers and crew have not yet been named."

'via Blog this'

Boeing to extend B-52 life span by increasing smart weapon capacity by half — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Boeing to extend B-52 life span by increasing smart weapon capacity by half — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The B-52 heavy bomber is a bit like the Queen of England – sometimes it seems as though both of them are going to go on forever. Last week, Boeing announced a new program to extend the life of the US Air Force B-52 fleet by expanding its capacity to carry smart weapons by 50 percent as part of a new US$24.6 million contract."

'via Blog this'

What Surprises Foreigners About America — godfatherpolitics.com — Readability

What Surprises Foreigners About America — godfatherpolitics.com — Readability: "Many years ago I remember watching the reaction of a woman who had come to America from a Communist country and visited a super market for the first time. Seeing her facial expression was priceless. Her first reaction was that the store was for government officials. When she was told that there are stores like this everywhere in America, and anybody can shop in them, she broke down crying. Government officials had lied to her in their description of American capitalism."

'via Blog this'

Friday, November 8, 2013

New flexible batteries could be made by users at home — www.gizmag.com — Readability

New flexible batteries could be made by users at home — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Scientists at the New Jersey Institute of Technology have joined the ranks of those from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Stanford University and LG, by creating prototype flexible batteries. Designed for use in electronic devices with flexible displays, they could conceivably be manufactured in any size or shape, or even made at home."

'via Blog this'

Hirobo unveils HX-1 unmanned electric helicopter, and promises a manned model — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Hirobo unveils HX-1 unmanned electric helicopter, and promises a manned model — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The Hirobo stand at the International Robotics Exhibition in Tokyo this week was full of surprises. The first was the appearance of the HX-1 unmanned electric helicopter, due to go into production before the end of the year, but an even bigger surprise was in store when you opened the brochure – details of the company's planned personal (manned) BIT electric micro helicopter."

'via Blog this'

Power-harvesting device converts microwave signals into electricity — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Power-harvesting device converts microwave signals into electricity — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Joining the ranks of devices designed to harvest energy from ambient electromagnetic radiation comes an electrical circuit from researchers at Duke University that can be tuned to capture microwave energy from various sources, including satellite, sound or Wi-Fi signals. The researchers say the device converts otherwise lost energy into direct current voltage with efficiencies similar to that of current solar cells."

'via Blog this'

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Dressed to not kill: Garrison Bespoke's bullet-proof business suit — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Dressed to not kill: Garrison Bespoke's bullet-proof business suit — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "In a scene only dreamt of by most people, the employees of Garrison Bespoke, an upscale Toronto tailor, lined up and waited their turn to stab their boss, Michael Nguyen, with a hunting knife. Mr. Nguyen emerged from the experience unscathed, thanks to a remarkable bullet-proof business suit that has just been revealed to the public."

'via Blog this'

Rolls Royce's one-of-a-kind Phantom shines bright like 446 diamonds — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Rolls Royce's one-of-a-kind Phantom shines bright like 446 diamonds — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Rolls-Royce is highlighting its Bespoke program at this week's Dubai International Motor Show, showing two one-of-a-kind Phantom models. One model travels with more diamonds than the entire Kardashian clan on a Saturday night, while the other is an homage to the famed Goodwood Motor Circuit."

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SmartLight redirects sunlight into "light-locked" building interiors — www.gizmag.com — Readability

SmartLight redirects sunlight into "light-locked" building interiors — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed technology that could help cut lighting energy costs by brightening up rooms with natural light. The SmartLight system is designed to direct sunlight into dark, dingy rooms located within the bowels of buildings without requiring the installation of new wiring, ducts, tubes or cables. It also allows excess light to be harnessed and centrally stored to provide energy for electric lighting on cloudy days."

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Quanta demonstrates aftermarket hybrid kit with 770-hp Corvette Z06 — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Quanta demonstrates aftermarket hybrid kit with 770-hp Corvette Z06 — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The Quanta Corvette QHP770 is upgraded with a high-performance hybrid system

Automakers typically use hybrid powertrains to improve fuel economies and kowtow to government relations. Not Quanta. Similar to cars like the McLaren P1 and Toyota Hybrid R concept, the hybrid technology in Quanta's Corvette QHP770 is all about performance. The show car is designed to test the waters for hybrid upgrade kits for Corvettes and other sports cars."

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Does Smaug Have Enough Gold? — www.wired.com — Readability

Does Smaug Have Enough Gold? — www.wired.com — Readability: "I guess dragons love gold. In the recent trailers for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (YouTube clip) you can get a glimpse of all the gold Smaug has. Why does a dragon need this much gold? I don’t get it. Maybe Smaug doesn’t actually like gold but he just wants to keep it away from other people."

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Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Death valley weather hottest place on Earth

Death valley weather hottest place on Earth: "There has been some dispute and controversy over the past 90 years about what place on Earth holds the record for the highest temperature reading. In July 1913 there was an official reading at Furnace Creek in Death Valley of 134 degrees. In 1922 there was a temperature recorded in Northern Libya of 136 degrees, that took the record away from Death Valley."

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FAA testing confirms Citation X as world's fastest civilian aircraft — www.gizmag.com — Readability

FAA testing confirms Citation X as world's fastest civilian aircraft — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "In the wake of the Gulfstream G650 claiming a new around-the-world speed record for a certified civilian aircraft, Cessna is signaling that the record will be short lived. On its way to certification, Cessna's Citation X recently wound up all high-speed certification flights with the FAA, which confirmed the aircraft as the fastest civilian aircraft in the world."

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Monday, November 4, 2013

Every existing smartphone and tablet can now be a 3D scanner — www.techhive.com — Readability

Every existing smartphone and tablet can now be a 3D scanner — www.techhive.com — Readability: "As 3D printing technology crawls out from the darkened corners where basement hobbyists toil and comes into the light of ubiquity (and affordability), so has the market for 3D scanners."

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Lockheed Martin developing successor to the SR-71 Blackbird — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Lockheed Martin developing successor to the SR-71 Blackbird — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "When the last SR-71 Blackbird was grounded in 1998 it was a double blow. Not only did aviation lose one of the most advanced aircraft ever built, but also one of the most beautiful. Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works has now revealed that it is building a successor to the Blackbird: the SR-72. Using a new hypersonic engine design that combines turbines and ramjets, the company says that the unmanned SR-72 will be twice as fast as its predecessor with a cruising speed of Mach 6."

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Maiden flight of next-gen MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Maiden flight of next-gen MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The next-generation MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter has taken to the air for the first time at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) in California. Built by Northrop Grumman around a Bell 407 helicopter, the MQ-8C is designed to boast twice the endurance and three times the payload capacity of the MQ-8B variant that has clocked up over 5,000 flight hours in Afghanistan."

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India starts countdown for Mars mission — www.gizmag.com — Readability

India starts countdown for Mars mission — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "India has started the clock on its most ambitious space project to date. On Sunday at 6:08 IST, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) began the countdown for its Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM). If all goes to schedule, the unmanned probe will lift off on Tuesday from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR), on the island of Sriharikota at 2:38 pm IST atop a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C25), marking the point where India hopes to launch itself into the space-faring big leagues."

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Porsche adds extra edge to Panamera with new Turbo S — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Porsche adds extra edge to Panamera with new Turbo S — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Porsche revealed the updated 2014 Panamera and Panamera Turbo at the Shanghai Motor Show earlier this year and it's rounding off the line-up with the range-topping Turbo S. The automaker has previewed the new S variant before its official debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. This upgraded trim level follows the usual "S" format of bolstering power and increasing performance."

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Sunday, November 3, 2013

Why Hot Water Freezes Faster Than Cold—Physicists Solve the Mpemba Effect — medium.com — Readability

Why Hot Water Freezes Faster Than Cold—Physicists Solve the Mpemba Effect — medium.com — Readability: "Water may be one of the most abundant compounds on Earth, but it is also one of more mysterious. For example, like most liquids it becomes denser as it cools. But unlike them, it reaches a state of maximum density at 4°C and then becomes less dense before it freezes."

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Saturday, November 2, 2013

Test drive: McLaren 12C Spider — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Test drive: McLaren 12C Spider — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "It’s interesting how a little context will shape one’s opinions. Turns out I’d been an accidental fan of McLaren for years. Before the name became synonymous with Formula 1, and before the release of the iconic F1 supercar in the 90s, there were slotcars. Yes you heard me, slotcars. Going through some old Kodaks, I realized I’d in fact been driving scaled down, electric McLarens since the 70s … putting me years ahead of Tesla in terms of electric vehicle development. So upon learning I’d be driving the full-scale version of McLaren’s 12C Spider, I was as pleased as Scottish schoolboy in September."

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neurocam automatically shoots whatever its user finds interesting — www.gizmag.com — Readability

neurocam automatically shoots whatever its user finds interesting — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Perhaps you know someone who's a member of the "lifelogging" community – these are people who record pretty much all of their waking hours, typically using small, wearable video cameras. The problem is, they inevitably end up with a lot of footage that's just ... well, boring, even to them. That's where the neurocam comes in. It's a prototype headset camera, that only records when it detects that its wearer is interested in what they're seeing"

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Atlanta Man Shatters Coast-to-Coast Driving Record, Averaging 98MPH — tech.slashdot.org — Readability

Atlanta Man Shatters Coast-to-Coast Driving Record, Averaging 98MPH — tech.slashdot.org — Readability: "New submitter The Grim Reefer sends this quote from CNN: "[Ed] Bolian set out on a serious mission to beat the record for driving from New York to Los Angeles. The mark? Alex Roy and David Maher's cross-country record of 31 hours and 4 minutes, which they set in a modified BMW M5 in 2006. "

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Tesla's west coast Supercharger corridor extended to Vancouver — www.gizmag.com — Readability

Tesla's west coast Supercharger corridor extended to Vancouver — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "Elon Musk has given Model S owners living on the US/Canadian west coast an early Christmas present with the announcement that its fast-charging “Supercharger” network will now extend all the way from California right up into British Columbia."

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In photos: Our five favorite cars at the Lamborghini Museum, Italy — www.gizmag.com — Readability

In photos: Our five favorite cars at the Lamborghini Museum, Italy — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "I’m cruising down the road from Bologna to Modena in northern Italy, feeling continental on my rented scooter as the missus plays GPS and yells directions into my ear. We’re looking for the Lamborghini Museum in Sant’Agata. It’s only 25 km from Bologna, but somehow that translates into about a 45 minute ride on Italian roads, with their 30, 40 and 50 km/h limits."

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GE's Mine Cruiser puts safety before beauty — www.gizmag.com — Readability

GE's Mine Cruiser puts safety before beauty — www.gizmag.com — Readability: "The depths of a coal mine couldn't be considered ideal driving conditions for most vehicles, but the Mk7.0 TIER 3 Mine Cruiser isn't most vehicles. GE recently announced that it has delivered its 500th Mine Cruiser, which is a four-wheel drive utility vehicle capable of carrying up to 14 passengers, yet is built to operate safely in the vast galleries of modern underground coal mines."

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