NASA Observatory records 20 million-mph winds off stellar-mass black hole

NASA Observatory records 20 million-mph winds off stellar-mass black hole: "NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory has recorded ultra-fast 20 million mph (32 million km/h) winds roaring from a gas disk around the stellar-mass black hole IGR J17091-3624. The wind speeds are a record, a factor of ten greater than any previously recorded, for a black hole of this kind. It is hoped the surprise discovery will shed new light on the behavior of stellar-mass black holes."

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U.S. Army develops “Kevlar underpants” to protect soldiers' nether regions

U.S. Army develops “Kevlar underpants” to protect soldiers' nether regions: "When it comes to the many "life-changing" injuries that can result from an IED blast, the loss of a limb is probably the first one that springs to mind. But injuries to the pelvic region that leave soldiers with the inability to have children can obviously be just as devastating. That's why the U.S. Army has developed a Pelvic Protection System - dubbed "Kevlar boxers" or "combat underpants" by some soldiers - to protect dismounted soldiers patrolling Afghanistan roads."

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NHK balloon camera aims to make bird's-eye shots easy

NHK balloon camera aims to make bird's-eye shots easy: "For those who dream of one day shooting aerial footage without the bulky cranes and cables to hold everything aloft, Japan's NHK may have just the thing: a tethered, balloon-mounted, four-axis gyro-stabilized camera rig that weighs in at about 2 kg (4.4 lb), can soar up to 300 m (984 ft) and takes its commands from the re-purposed remote control for a toy helicopter."

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Japanese company plans to have space elevator "up" and running by 2050

Japanese company plans to have space elevator "up" and running by 2050: "A Japanese company is looking to take elevators to new heights. The Daily Yomiuri reports that Tokyo-based construction company Obayashi Corp. hopes to have a space elevator operational by 2050, carrying passengers and cargo in a vehicle that travels along a ribbon made of carbon nanotubes extending a quarter of the way to the moon."

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Opel Mokka SUV integrates bike rack into the bumper

Opel Mokka SUV integrates bike rack into the bumper: "In a world where every automaker has or wants to have at least one crossover or SUV, sometimes they have to do something a little extra to set their model apart from the pack. Bentley's EXP 9 F does it with its signature interior; Lamborghini's Urus concept does it with its supercar styling and hot red paint; and Opel does it with an innovative accessory - a bike carrier that's integrated into the bumper. Opel claims it's the only car maker to offer a fully integrated bicycle carrier that is always on board."

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Portable fuel cell uses butane to charge gadgets

Portable fuel cell uses butane to charge gadgets: "In a deal announced this week, American high-end retailer Brookstone will become the first seller of a portable fuel cell made by MIT spin-off company Lilliputian Systems Inc (LSI). Described as a “plug-less charger,” it will allow users to recharge their electronic devices’ batteries wherever they are – as long as they’ve stocked up on butane."

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Hybrid Humvee? US Army shows its diesel hybrid field vehicle

Hybrid Humvee? US Army shows its diesel hybrid field vehicle: "Still think hybrids and green cars are meek and hipsterish? Plant your eyes on the US Army's Fuel Efficient ground vehicle Demonstrator Bravo. It's one of the burliest vehicles you've likely seen in years, and it's all hybrid underneath its rugged metal shell."

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F-35A Joint Strike Fighter straps on its missiles

F-35A Joint Strike Fighter straps on its missiles: "The F-35A is the conventional takeoff and landing version of the Joint Strike Fighter, intended primarily for the U.S. Air Force short range fighter role. These single-seat single-engine fifth-generation fighters are designed to carry out air defense, ground attack, and recon missions."

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Google glasses coming to stores this year?

Google glasses coming to stores this year?: "A number of anonymous Google employees are reporting that the company is currently developing Android-powered glasses that can provide a heads-up display to the wearer and connect over wireless data services."

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Bugatti to unveil world’s most powerful roadster in Geneva

Bugatti to unveil world’s most powerful roadster in Geneva: "The world's automakers continue to provide a glimpse of what to expect at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March. The latest teaser comes from Bugatti, which will unveil its Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, calling it the world's most powerful roadster - time to invest in some super-strength adhesive for that toupee."

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The ZBoard hands-free motorized skateboard

The ZBoard hands-free motorized skateboard: "Laying claim to being the "world's first weight-sensing electric skateboard," the ZBoard delivers up to 400 watts of motor power via a simple, lean-and-go interface. The result is that riders will get up to 17 mph worth of speed without having to scuff their soles on the pavement."

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Make a Home Weather Station

Make a Home Weather Station: "A home weather station can entertain your kids regardless of the season. They'll also learn about weather patterns and the science behind sunny skies and rainy days."

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