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'

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'

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'

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'

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'

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'

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'

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"

'via Blog this'

'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."

'via Blog this'

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'

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'

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'

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:

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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'

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'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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"

'via Blog this'

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. "

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

Time Warner Left Bruised in Fee Battle With CBS — www-nc.nytimes.com — Readability

Time Warner Left Bruised in Fee Battle With CBS — www-nc.nytimes.com — Readability: "The CBS blackout in homes with Time Warner Cable ended in early September. But the damage from the feud is still being tallied up — and it may be lasting.

On Thursday, Time Warner Cable reported the steepest quarterly loss of television subscribers in its history, which it partly attributed to the monthlong battle it began with the CBS Corporation in August over fees."

'via Blog this'