According to a July 28, 2005 report posted at SpaceDaily.com, Richard Branson of Virgin Atlantic and Burt Rutan of Scaled Composites have signed a deal to create a jointly owned company that would operate newly developed spacecraft based on the highly successful SpaceShipOne prototype that reached suborbital flight last year.
The article said that a "fleet" of spacecraft would be developed and manufactured to take advantage of the public's interest in orbital tourism.
Source: Article at SpaceDaily.com.
Comment: Assuming that this venture is successful, it would represent a triumph for free enterprise. Neither Virgin Atlantic nor Scale Composites have asked for or received government assistance for its efforts. Rather, the ingenuity and hard work of private citizens, spending their own money, have resulted in what may be the world's first spaceline. I wish all involved the best of luck and hope that all goes well in this promising endeavor.
At the same time, I note the trailblazing role of NASA and others in pioneering manned spaceflight. American astronauts and Soviet and Russian cosmonauts took extreme risks in opening up the final frontier, and some of them paid for it with their lives.
As we look toward the future, I hope to see government agencies continue to take the initiative in maintaining this spirit of adventure and exploration to Mars and beyond, going first where no one -- private or public -- has gone before. Thereafter, private enterprise can follow, bringing the efforts of ordinary citizens to spectacular fruition.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Former President Jimmy Carter Critical Of Iraq, Detentions
In a speech given at an international conference recently, former President Jimmy Carter criticized the war in Iraq as "unjust" and also questioned the detention of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. He said that American actions have gave terrorists excuses to attack the West. The former President hastened to criticize such attacks as well.
This is not the first time that Mr. Carter has harshly criticized American policies in regard to Iraq, and it will not be the last.
Rather than mere criticism, I would like to see him offer constructive solutions for the problems that face the United States and the rest of the West, including those arising from international terrorism.
I believe that his strategy would be to engage in international cooperative efforts to crack down on terrorists. However, it is known that Britain had relaxed its vigilance against terrorist actions just prior to the first of the two recent bombings in London. Can concerted activity to guard against terrorism work when democracies are prone to returning to previous states of normalcy?
Mr. Carter and other critics should provide realistic alternatives to our current foreign policy approach.
This is not the first time that Mr. Carter has harshly criticized American policies in regard to Iraq, and it will not be the last.
Rather than mere criticism, I would like to see him offer constructive solutions for the problems that face the United States and the rest of the West, including those arising from international terrorism.
I believe that his strategy would be to engage in international cooperative efforts to crack down on terrorists. However, it is known that Britain had relaxed its vigilance against terrorist actions just prior to the first of the two recent bombings in London. Can concerted activity to guard against terrorism work when democracies are prone to returning to previous states of normalcy?
Mr. Carter and other critics should provide realistic alternatives to our current foreign policy approach.
Reader Comment, July 31, 2005
A reader of this journal recently e-mailed me with the following questions which he suggested might be posted here. Your considered replies, by e-mail to the contact address given elsewhere in this blog, are welcome and may be forwarded to the reader and/or posted here.
1. How can Bush be making these appointments of long contested nominations during recess? Doesn't the Constitution specifically state that he can only make recess appointments if the position became vacant during the recess:
Clause 3: The President shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the Senate.
2. Can a Constitutional amendment be overridden by a bill, or only by another amendment? If only by amendment, then wouldn't that make parts of the Patriot Act unconstitutional, for it is overriding protections specifically guaranteed under the Fourth Amendment?
Article [IV.] The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Russian Space Agency: Updated Soyuz Could Orbit Moon
A deputy chief of the Russian space agency confirmed last week that there are no technical challenges to orbiting an updated Soyuz capsule around the Moon.
The Soyuz is the workhorse of Russian manned spaceflight, having served for years to send three crewmembers to and from low Earth orbit. Recently, Soyuzes were used as space taxis to send and retrieve cosmonauts and astronauts to the International Space Station.
The comments follow Russian reports that a similar plan which would be used for lunar tourism may be proposed by Energiya, a Russian manufacturer of booster rockets.
The use of Soyuz as a relatively inexpensive means of orbiting the Moon was praised by an official at the European Space Agency.
For more information on this use of the Soyuz, read this article from the Seattle Times, from which the above information was obtained.
Comment: The Russian Space Agency is well known to be cash-strapped. In the above report, there was a reference to making such a lunar mission "self-financing", at least in part. Another report (cited in this journal) stated that a seat aboard the Soyuz sold at $20 million. The use of Soyuz as a lunar craft would cost $2 billion. Could such a financing model make sense?
What if development cost more than $2 billion? What if there were in fact difficult technical challenges?
The possibility that the European Space Agency may become involved is intriguing. While the ESA is not exactly flush with cash, it certainly could offer its services in exchange for participation rights in such an endeavor.
Nothing has been decided one way or the other. The lunar proposal seems to be a way for Russia to compete against America's Project Constellation. Only time will tell whether it's a viable one.
The Soyuz is the workhorse of Russian manned spaceflight, having served for years to send three crewmembers to and from low Earth orbit. Recently, Soyuzes were used as space taxis to send and retrieve cosmonauts and astronauts to the International Space Station.
The comments follow Russian reports that a similar plan which would be used for lunar tourism may be proposed by Energiya, a Russian manufacturer of booster rockets.
The use of Soyuz as a relatively inexpensive means of orbiting the Moon was praised by an official at the European Space Agency.
For more information on this use of the Soyuz, read this article from the Seattle Times, from which the above information was obtained.
Comment: The Russian Space Agency is well known to be cash-strapped. In the above report, there was a reference to making such a lunar mission "self-financing", at least in part. Another report (cited in this journal) stated that a seat aboard the Soyuz sold at $20 million. The use of Soyuz as a lunar craft would cost $2 billion. Could such a financing model make sense?
What if development cost more than $2 billion? What if there were in fact difficult technical challenges?
The possibility that the European Space Agency may become involved is intriguing. While the ESA is not exactly flush with cash, it certainly could offer its services in exchange for participation rights in such an endeavor.
Nothing has been decided one way or the other. The lunar proposal seems to be a way for Russia to compete against America's Project Constellation. Only time will tell whether it's a viable one.
Virtual Patrick Stewart Greets SideStep Visitors
SideStep, a website providing search results for travelers looking for a good deal, is enlisting the help of Patrick Stewart in its sweepstakes promotion. Mr. Stewart is best known for his role as "Captain Jean-Luc Picard" in Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Visitors to the sweepstakes promotion site will see an image of Mr. Stewart against a background of stars.
Moreover, the sweepstakes winner will be offered a free trip to London to meet Mr. Stewart personally.
The site hopes to convey the message that while other websites may be better established, SideStep is the "next big thing" and the choice of a new generation of global travelers.
For more information, see this article.
Visitors to the sweepstakes promotion site will see an image of Mr. Stewart against a background of stars.
Moreover, the sweepstakes winner will be offered a free trip to London to meet Mr. Stewart personally.
The site hopes to convey the message that while other websites may be better established, SideStep is the "next big thing" and the choice of a new generation of global travelers.
For more information, see this article.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
"Deep Blue" Awash In Beauty, Critic Says
A new documentary film about Earth's oceans has caught the attention of Michael Sragow, a movie critic with the Baltimore Sun.
Deep Blue is the story of the denizens of 70% of the surface of the Earth, and explores a range of oceanic habitats from steamy tropical seas to the stark, icy regions of the Artic. Wondrous documentary footage of whales in breach, penguins on the march, and the neon expanses of the northern lights are described in sight and sound.
For his glowing review of this new and interesting film, read this article at Baltimore.com.
Comment: A celebration such as this of the beauty of our planet should be required viewing for all intelligent people. The Earth is still unique among all the planets, despite all our efforts at exploration. Only ours is the abode of life, in all its abundance.
When you look upon the stars, what you see are points of light. When you look across the oceans, you see a vast expanse of blue, beneath which is an entire universe of life. Both outer space and inner space have their appeal. But the oceans, we know, are home to trillions of life forms. In a sense, all that we've looked for out there, is already here, but hidden from view.
Space is the final frontier, but sometimes, it's nice to explore our own back yard.
Deep Blue is the story of the denizens of 70% of the surface of the Earth, and explores a range of oceanic habitats from steamy tropical seas to the stark, icy regions of the Artic. Wondrous documentary footage of whales in breach, penguins on the march, and the neon expanses of the northern lights are described in sight and sound.
For his glowing review of this new and interesting film, read this article at Baltimore.com.
Comment: A celebration such as this of the beauty of our planet should be required viewing for all intelligent people. The Earth is still unique among all the planets, despite all our efforts at exploration. Only ours is the abode of life, in all its abundance.
When you look upon the stars, what you see are points of light. When you look across the oceans, you see a vast expanse of blue, beneath which is an entire universe of life. Both outer space and inner space have their appeal. But the oceans, we know, are home to trillions of life forms. In a sense, all that we've looked for out there, is already here, but hidden from view.
Space is the final frontier, but sometimes, it's nice to explore our own back yard.
Dinosaur Eggs Support Parental Care Thesis
Dinosaur embryos discovered nearly 20 years ago but excavated only last year suggest that the fully grown individuals of this species may have been doting parents.
Researchers at the University of Toronto looked for clues to dinosaur development in the fossilized eggs of a type of dinosaur that grew to ten feet in length. Extrapolating the growth of the embryos by referring to better-understood samples dating to the Cretaceous age, the probable development of members of this earlier species was surmised. Scientists theorize that the dinosaur neonates initially crawled on all fours and were dependent on their parents for survival. Only later in life did the rapid growth of these individuals allow them to achieve bipedal motion, researchers say.
For more information on this new discovery, read this article from Sciam.com.
Researchers at the University of Toronto looked for clues to dinosaur development in the fossilized eggs of a type of dinosaur that grew to ten feet in length. Extrapolating the growth of the embryos by referring to better-understood samples dating to the Cretaceous age, the probable development of members of this earlier species was surmised. Scientists theorize that the dinosaur neonates initially crawled on all fours and were dependent on their parents for survival. Only later in life did the rapid growth of these individuals allow them to achieve bipedal motion, researchers say.
For more information on this new discovery, read this article from Sciam.com.
Austrian Museum Encourages Naked Patrons
An art museum in Austria has decided to create a "mini-scandal" to spur interest in its exhibition on erotic art of the 1900's. For its program featuring artwork by Schiele, Klimst, and others, the museum decided to give free admission to those who came either nude or nearly so.
Most of those who came to the museum decided on swimwear, but a few were more adventurous.
For more information on this strange story, click here.
Comment: There is a disconnect between the artist's view of life and that of the ordinary citizen. The artist see beauty in nakedness. The citizen avoids nakedness because it is deemed obscene and indecent.
Why is there this difference?
The reason, I suspect, is that the artist by his nature lives in an idealized world, and one in which beauty is the goal. The citizen lives in a far different realm, where mere survival is the everday objective. Whether it is financial survival or otherwise, the citizen is engrossed in the idea of life as a challenge, while for the artist, life is a celebration of beauty, or at least an ideal of the artist's own choosing.
The artist can define his own terms as long as it is in the province of his profession. The citizen, for better or worse, cannot.
Most of those who came to the museum decided on swimwear, but a few were more adventurous.
For more information on this strange story, click here.
Comment: There is a disconnect between the artist's view of life and that of the ordinary citizen. The artist see beauty in nakedness. The citizen avoids nakedness because it is deemed obscene and indecent.
Why is there this difference?
The reason, I suspect, is that the artist by his nature lives in an idealized world, and one in which beauty is the goal. The citizen lives in a far different realm, where mere survival is the everday objective. Whether it is financial survival or otherwise, the citizen is engrossed in the idea of life as a challenge, while for the artist, life is a celebration of beauty, or at least an ideal of the artist's own choosing.
The artist can define his own terms as long as it is in the province of his profession. The citizen, for better or worse, cannot.
Spitzer Satellite Sees Organic Molecules Near Universe's Edge
The Spitzer Space Telescope has discovered the existence of complex carbon and hydrogen molecules near the edge of the observable universe.
Since light travels at a finite speed, the farther objects are from Earth, the deeper in the past they existed. From their observations, scientists determined that the molecules thus existed when the universe was only one-fourth of its present age.
Complex carbon-based molecules are essential for the existence of life and until now had not been determined to exist that early in the history of the universe.
For more details, read this article.
Comment: The fact that complex molecules existed early in the universe should not surprise us. Nor does this mean that the universe or Earth could not have been created by God. It merely means that the components of Earth existed long before the evolution of mankind.
Since light travels at a finite speed, the farther objects are from Earth, the deeper in the past they existed. From their observations, scientists determined that the molecules thus existed when the universe was only one-fourth of its present age.
Complex carbon-based molecules are essential for the existence of life and until now had not been determined to exist that early in the history of the universe.
For more details, read this article.
Comment: The fact that complex molecules existed early in the universe should not surprise us. Nor does this mean that the universe or Earth could not have been created by God. It merely means that the components of Earth existed long before the evolution of mankind.
Mystery Pilot Violated Shuttle No-Fly Zone
A small general aviation aircraft penetrated the no-fly zone around the Space Shuttle Discovery as it prepared to launch on July 26 and was accosted by a NASA patrol craft, according to recent report. The NASA fighter dropped flares and forced the airplane to land at a nearby airport, but by the time authorities could reach it on the ground, the pilot had disappeared.
See this article for details.
Comment: I wonder if they will ever catch this guy. The entire episode reminds me of a science fiction story about time travelers who come back to our era to do their own thing, only to disappear once they've accomplished their mission. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.
See this article for details.
Comment: I wonder if they will ever catch this guy. The entire episode reminds me of a science fiction story about time travelers who come back to our era to do their own thing, only to disappear once they've accomplished their mission. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.
Discovery Astronauts Complete First Spacewalk
Two Discovery astronauts completed their first spacewalk today, starting off with a number of ISS-related replacement and assembly tasks and ending with a test of the special caulking techniques devised to repair Shuttle thermal systems in case of emergency.
A faulty antenna and gyroscopic component were successfully replaced on the ISS.
There was a report from the Discovery astronauts of a problem with closing an airlock door. However, NASA is pleased with the performance of all Shuttle astronauts and of the Orbiter itself.
During today's Post-MMT news conference, MMT chairman Wayne Hale announced that the thermal protection system was officially deemed to be in good shape.
The Post-MMT conference also revealed the overall status for ISS-related consumables is not expected to be affected even if there are no more Shuttle flights this year.
The Shuttle is expected to be on orbit for an extra day to provide extra supplies and assistance to the ISS to prepare it to endure a possible extended period before the next flight.
See this article for details.
A faulty antenna and gyroscopic component were successfully replaced on the ISS.
There was a report from the Discovery astronauts of a problem with closing an airlock door. However, NASA is pleased with the performance of all Shuttle astronauts and of the Orbiter itself.
During today's Post-MMT news conference, MMT chairman Wayne Hale announced that the thermal protection system was officially deemed to be in good shape.
The Post-MMT conference also revealed the overall status for ISS-related consumables is not expected to be affected even if there are no more Shuttle flights this year.
The Shuttle is expected to be on orbit for an extra day to provide extra supplies and assistance to the ISS to prepare it to endure a possible extended period before the next flight.
See this article for details.
Uzbekistan Demands U.S. Vacate Air Base
The government of Uzbekistan has formally served a notice of eviction of U.S. personnel and equipment from its air base in that country, according to MSNBC.com. The eviction notice was couriered to the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent.
While no reason has been given for the eviction, which takes effect in 180 days, the action takes place as relations between the U.S. and Uzbekistan are increasingly troubled over claims that the Uzbek government has violated the human rights of political protestors in the province of Andijan. The U.S. and independent human rights groups have criticized violent official crackdowns in that region.
The base has been described as "critical" to U.S. operations in Afghanistan, but American authorities have already secured alternative sites in other countries to replace it.
For more information, see this MSNBC.com article.
Comment: Other media reports have omitted the fact that the U.S. has alternatives in hand which will serve the purposes currently fulfilled by the Uzbek base.
In other words, we are prepared for whatever contingency may occur. But if you were to rely on most media reports, you'd never know that. Rather unfortunate, I would say.
While no reason has been given for the eviction, which takes effect in 180 days, the action takes place as relations between the U.S. and Uzbekistan are increasingly troubled over claims that the Uzbek government has violated the human rights of political protestors in the province of Andijan. The U.S. and independent human rights groups have criticized violent official crackdowns in that region.
The base has been described as "critical" to U.S. operations in Afghanistan, but American authorities have already secured alternative sites in other countries to replace it.
For more information, see this MSNBC.com article.
Comment: Other media reports have omitted the fact that the U.S. has alternatives in hand which will serve the purposes currently fulfilled by the Uzbek base.
In other words, we are prepared for whatever contingency may occur. But if you were to rely on most media reports, you'd never know that. Rather unfortunate, I would say.
President May Appoint Bolton As Recess Appointee
President Bush may exercise his right to appoint controversial nominee John Bolton to the position of UN Ambassador while the Senate is in August recess, according to MSNBC.com. His appointment would be reviewed only upon the Senate session beginning in January, 2007.
Bolton's nomination to the UN ambassadorship has been stalled in the Senate because Democrats claimed that he was temperamentally unsuited for the job. Democrats now also claim that he has been less than honest about whether he was ever under investigation.
For more information, see this article from MSNBC.com.
Bolton's nomination to the UN ambassadorship has been stalled in the Senate because Democrats claimed that he was temperamentally unsuited for the job. Democrats now also claim that he has been less than honest about whether he was ever under investigation.
For more information, see this article from MSNBC.com.
Astronomers May Have Found Tenth Solar Planet
Astronomers in the United States may have discovered the tenth planet in our Solar System, reports say.
A previously unnoticed object larger than the planet Pluto has been discovered orbiting our Sun at a 45-degree angle relative to the mean orbital plane of the known planets, according to the astronomers.
Because their orbits overlap, Pluto and Neptune trade places with each other as the Solar System's outermost known planet. If the discovery is confirmed, the new planet would be further out from the Sun than either of them.
(Previous reports said that a new object had been detected in the Solar System that was smaller than Pluto. This may be a different object. (Source: Space.com))
For the latest, see this article.
A previously unnoticed object larger than the planet Pluto has been discovered orbiting our Sun at a 45-degree angle relative to the mean orbital plane of the known planets, according to the astronomers.
Because their orbits overlap, Pluto and Neptune trade places with each other as the Solar System's outermost known planet. If the discovery is confirmed, the new planet would be further out from the Sun than either of them.
(Previous reports said that a new object had been detected in the Solar System that was smaller than Pluto. This may be a different object. (Source: Space.com))
For the latest, see this article.
U.S. Navy To Utilize 21st Century Navigation Interfaces
Forget the paper-based charts of old. The U.S. Navy has decided to implement a program that would make traditional navigation media a thing of the past.
The plan is to replace navigation charts with computer screens under a new program that would affect the entire fleet.
Interactive screens would permit command crews to see their ships' actual position at sea rather than relying on estimates using current methods.
The new navigation system is manufactured by Northrop Grumman.
For more information, see this press release.
The plan is to replace navigation charts with computer screens under a new program that would affect the entire fleet.
Interactive screens would permit command crews to see their ships' actual position at sea rather than relying on estimates using current methods.
The new navigation system is manufactured by Northrop Grumman.
For more information, see this press release.
U.S. Navy Conducts Exercises With Romanian Navy
The U.S. Navy has sent a guided missile destroyer and a transport ship to the Black Sea to conduct exercises with the Romanian Navy.
The U.S.S. Mahan and the U.S.S. Nashville will coordinate operations with two Romanian warships.
Separately, 1,500 U.S. troops will conduct maneuvers with their Romanian counterparts.
For details see this story from the Xinhua News Service.
The U.S.S. Mahan and the U.S.S. Nashville will coordinate operations with two Romanian warships.
Separately, 1,500 U.S. troops will conduct maneuvers with their Romanian counterparts.
For details see this story from the Xinhua News Service.
Friday, July 29, 2005
NASA Probe Finds Invisible Galactic Arms
A little-known NASA probe whose mission is to investigate the origins and history of our universe has found hitherto undetected spiral arms within a nearby galaxy.
Recent images from the GALEX probe revealed the stellar spirals in NGC 4625, which until now was thought to be too ancient to possess such features.
For images and further information, see this NASA article.
Recent images from the GALEX probe revealed the stellar spirals in NGC 4625, which until now was thought to be too ancient to possess such features.
For images and further information, see this NASA article.
ESA Probe Finds Frozen Martian Lake
The European Space Agency Mars Express has detected a lake composed of either frozen water or carbon dioxide, reports say.
For more information, see: BBC article.
For more information, see: BBC article.
Australian School Bans Professor From Teaching
Macquarie University, located in Sydney, Australia, has banned Canadian-born Associate Professor Andrew Fraser from further teaching at its schools.
The law professor had garnered national attention for statements decrying the influence of Africans and Asians in Australia. The university found that his comments had disrupted the academic environment at Macquarie and associated the school with views it found objectionable.
For more information, see this story.
The law professor had garnered national attention for statements decrying the influence of Africans and Asians in Australia. The university found that his comments had disrupted the academic environment at Macquarie and associated the school with views it found objectionable.
For more information, see this story.
High-Tech Lighting To Raise Airliner Comfort
New airliners currently in development will incorporate facets of psychology in their design.
Research indicates that certain colors have the tendency to soothe and certain textures can make an interior space look larger than it really is.
Insights such as these will help at least one aircraft manufacturer improve the interiors of commercial airliners by incorporating advanced, variable lighting and specialized cabin wall textures into their newest products.
For more information, read this article from The Australian.
Research indicates that certain colors have the tendency to soothe and certain textures can make an interior space look larger than it really is.
Insights such as these will help at least one aircraft manufacturer improve the interiors of commercial airliners by incorporating advanced, variable lighting and specialized cabin wall textures into their newest products.
For more information, read this article from The Australian.
Chinese Airlines Place 50-Plane Boeing Order
The Xinhua news agency reports that China's national carrier, Air China, and several other airlines in that country have placed orders for 50 787 aircraft from Boeing.
The report was repeated in an article in Business Week magazine.
The order represents an estimated value of $6 billion, according to news reports.
In related news, Japan's ANA airline has placed an order for three 767 aircraft, and the U.S. carrier Continental has ordered two 777-200's, reports say.
The report was repeated in an article in Business Week magazine.
The order represents an estimated value of $6 billion, according to news reports.
In related news, Japan's ANA airline has placed an order for three 767 aircraft, and the U.S. carrier Continental has ordered two 777-200's, reports say.
Italian PM Blasts Effect Of Euro
In a politically charged atmosphere at a meeting of his Forza Italia party, Silvio Berlusconi blamed the pro-euro policies of his political opponent, Signor Prodi, for negative effects on "everybody".
Europe is experiencing uneven growth as some countries are expected to advance while others lag behind. In contrast to brightening prospects for Germany and France, Italy's recession will persist, a recent study concludes.
For more information, see: Times of London article.
Europe is experiencing uneven growth as some countries are expected to advance while others lag behind. In contrast to brightening prospects for Germany and France, Italy's recession will persist, a recent study concludes.
For more information, see: Times of London article.
"Flying Saucer" Reported In Bracknell Forest, U.K.
Reports of a mysterious flying object have flooded the UFO hotline of a local British newspaper, according to a July 28, 2005 article it published on the Web.
The article says that reports described the object as a flying saucer or a bright searchlight that hovered over Bracknell Forest for a time, and then simply disappeared.
Interested parties will find the reports described here.
The article says that reports described the object as a flying saucer or a bright searchlight that hovered over Bracknell Forest for a time, and then simply disappeared.
Interested parties will find the reports described here.
New Energy Bill Allocates Billions For Nuclear Power
Congress is nearing passage of a new energy bill that would authorize $1.5 billion in direct subsidies to the nuclear industry as an aid toward developing the next generation of nuclear reactors for power generation, according to a recent news report.
Billions more would be potentially available to encourage Wall Street investment in new nuclear power plants.
All this effort may be in vain if financing from private and public sources to build new nuclear plants remains unavailable, the report said. However, at least one power plant operator seemed hopeful that it would be the first company to receive a license for a new nuclear plant since the 1970's.
For details, read this news story from the Wall Street Journal via the Portsmouth Herald.
Billions more would be potentially available to encourage Wall Street investment in new nuclear power plants.
All this effort may be in vain if financing from private and public sources to build new nuclear plants remains unavailable, the report said. However, at least one power plant operator seemed hopeful that it would be the first company to receive a license for a new nuclear plant since the 1970's.
For details, read this news story from the Wall Street Journal via the Portsmouth Herald.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
"Star Trek: Enterprise" Ill-Served By Network, Says Actor
Scott Bakula, who played Captain Jonathan Archer in Star Trek's most recent incarnation, Star Trek: Enterprise, believes that the series was run on the wrong network for four years. He also holds the view that personnel changes at Viacom and Paramount had the ultimate effect of dooming the series.
Bakula was interviewed in Star Trek's official magazine.
For more information, see TrekWeb's report on the interview.
Bakula was interviewed in Star Trek's official magazine.
For more information, see TrekWeb's report on the interview.
A Beautiful Sight!
Shuttle Discovery is currently downloading images of its approach to the International Space Station.
The dynamic video is being fed live to NASA and NASA-TV.
The video of the 12-"winged" Station -- with solar panels extended -- moving upward from the standpoint of the Shuttle is positively ethereal.
It reminded me of an angel in flight.
The dynamic video is being fed live to NASA and NASA-TV.
The video of the 12-"winged" Station -- with solar panels extended -- moving upward from the standpoint of the Shuttle is positively ethereal.
It reminded me of an angel in flight.
Russia's Energiya Plans Hybrid Shuttle
As an alternative to the Russian Federal Space Agency's concept for Kliper, the follow-on to Soyuz, Russia's Energiya has proposed combining the best features of the Soyuz with a reusable shuttle-type vehicle.
For the full story, read the article published on July 27, 2005 by ITAR-TASS.
For the full story, read the article published on July 27, 2005 by ITAR-TASS.
Cuts In Raptor, JSF Programs Would Affect California
If the Pentagon decides to slash spending for the F-22 Raptor or F-35 Joint Strike Fighter programs, there would be a significant impact on the local economy, according to a Los Angeles newspaper.
See: Story in Daily Breeze.
Furthermore, if total prodution is reduced, the unit-cost of each fighter aircraft may actually increase, the story said.
Comment: If you support the F-22 and F-25, write your local Congressman and Senator. The F-22 and F-35 programs are essential for America's continued dominance of the air. Deep cuts have already been made in unit production. The F-22 has already been authorized for full-scale production, and changes this late in the process would be devastating.
The President should also take heed of what the Pentagon may be considering. And the Governor should understand that jobs are at stake.
The Pentagon is due to send Congress an official report in February of next year recommending budget expenditures and cuts in these and other programs.
Time is of the essence. Write your representative today.
See: Story in Daily Breeze.
Furthermore, if total prodution is reduced, the unit-cost of each fighter aircraft may actually increase, the story said.
Comment: If you support the F-22 and F-25, write your local Congressman and Senator. The F-22 and F-35 programs are essential for America's continued dominance of the air. Deep cuts have already been made in unit production. The F-22 has already been authorized for full-scale production, and changes this late in the process would be devastating.
The President should also take heed of what the Pentagon may be considering. And the Governor should understand that jobs are at stake.
The Pentagon is due to send Congress an official report in February of next year recommending budget expenditures and cuts in these and other programs.
Time is of the essence. Write your representative today.
"Grounded" Too Strong For Shuttle Status -- NASA
Minutes ago, a NASA official stated that the term "grounded" is too strong for the status of the Shuttle, although he also said that if others wanted to use the term, it would be "fine".
The PAL ramp problem is one problem among others that have needed to be addressed, according to the official.
He reiterated that the Shuttle would not be launched again before the PAL ramp problem is solved.
Source: NASA-TV.
The PAL ramp problem is one problem among others that have needed to be addressed, according to the official.
He reiterated that the Shuttle would not be launched again before the PAL ramp problem is solved.
Source: NASA-TV.
Radical New "Star Trek" Film Rumored
A new Star Trek film was rumored to be in production as of this writing.
The film is said to be a sharp departure from previous films in that it involves the very near future -- a mere five years from today. However, rumors say that it will also involve the far future, with travelers returning in time to save humanity.
The rumors should be taken as such. No official information on this rumor was available as of this writing.
Source consulted: IGN article.
The film is said to be a sharp departure from previous films in that it involves the very near future -- a mere five years from today. However, rumors say that it will also involve the far future, with travelers returning in time to save humanity.
The rumors should be taken as such. No official information on this rumor was available as of this writing.
Source consulted: IGN article.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Secret Soviet Space Casualties
Think that the U.S. space program is risky?
Think again. The Soviets lost 48 people in just one incident.
(Excerpt)
Source: Shadows of the Soviet Space Age.
See also Jame's Oberg's "Dead Cosmonauts".
Think again. The Soviets lost 48 people in just one incident.
(Excerpt)
On March 18, 1980, 48 technicians died at Russia's Plesetsk Cosmodrome when a Vostok booster exploded while being fueled. An investigation later revealed that the substitution of lead-based for tin-based solder in hydrogen peroxide filters had resulted in the breakdown of the hydrogen peroxide and the resulting explosion. The incident was reported to the general public only in 1989, almost ten years later, in the era of 'glasnost'.
Source: Shadows of the Soviet Space Age.
See also Jame's Oberg's "Dead Cosmonauts".
Alliant, Lockheed Martin Awarded Contract For New Navy Missile
Alliant Techsystems and Lockheed Martin were awarded a $9.2 million contract to develop and validate a new submarine-launched missile, according to a recent report.
The contract was awarded as part of the Navy's Submarine-Launched Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile System program.
Source: The Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal.
One salient question would be whether the Navy will use its ballistic missile submarines or its attack submarines to field the new missile.
The contract was awarded as part of the Navy's Submarine-Launched Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile System program.
Source: The Minneapolis-St. Paul Business Journal.
One salient question would be whether the Navy will use its ballistic missile submarines or its attack submarines to field the new missile.
Cassini Images Saturn's Hyperion
The NASA probe Cassini has recently imaged Hyperion, a small, pockmarked moon of Saturn. Hyperion's strange appearance suggests that its surface may have been repeatedly bombarded, and its low density indicates that much of its interior may be empty.
See: Scientific American article.
The fact that we can reach out with our probes and image something hitherto almost completely unknown speaks to the majesty of scientific endeavor. When mankind achieves interplanetary flight, the numerous moons of Jupiter and Saturn will offer almost endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.
See: Scientific American article.
The fact that we can reach out with our probes and image something hitherto almost completely unknown speaks to the majesty of scientific endeavor. When mankind achieves interplanetary flight, the numerous moons of Jupiter and Saturn will offer almost endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.
Millionaire To Fly On Orbital Tour
A millionaire from New Jersey will fly aboard a Russian spacecraft as a tourist. Gregory Olsen paid $20 million for the right to board a Soyuz space capsule and blast into Earth orbit along with cosmonauts piloting the craft.
For more information, see: Newsday story.
Comment: The willingness of tourists to spend large sums of money for the privilege of orbiting the Earth bodes well for the ability of companies such as Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic, which plans to fly tourists on suborbital tours using spacecraft modeled on SpaceShipOne, the private spacecraft which achieved spaceflight early last year.
For more information, see: Newsday story.
Comment: The willingness of tourists to spend large sums of money for the privilege of orbiting the Earth bodes well for the ability of companies such as Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic, which plans to fly tourists on suborbital tours using spacecraft modeled on SpaceShipOne, the private spacecraft which achieved spaceflight early last year.
French Critics Decry Cultural Festival
Critics from major French newspapers lived up to their name recently when called upon to review this year's Avignon Festival, a major venue for the performing arts.
Reviewers from both the left and the right panned what they deemed were the Festival's pretentious and nihilistic performances.
For details, see: Article from The Australian.
It's rare that critics are unanimous about anything, but from what was written, it seems that the state of art has reached a crossroads at the Festival, which in recent years has also experienced labor troubles.
Despite all that, the Festival's organizers seem unfazed.
Perhaps they are well aware of the phrase, "Life is short. Art is long."
Reviewers from both the left and the right panned what they deemed were the Festival's pretentious and nihilistic performances.
For details, see: Article from The Australian.
It's rare that critics are unanimous about anything, but from what was written, it seems that the state of art has reached a crossroads at the Festival, which in recent years has also experienced labor troubles.
Despite all that, the Festival's organizers seem unfazed.
Perhaps they are well aware of the phrase, "Life is short. Art is long."
Yodeling Enjoys Comeback In Switzerland
The practice of yodeling is making a comeback in Switzerland, and there are even contests and festivals dedicated to the ancient art.
See: Story.
Despite its origins as a method of communication between the ample alpine peaks in that mountainous country, the art fell into disuse as modernity made it seem old-fashioned and kitschy.
According to some, its resurgence may be a sign of yearning for a more traditional identity in a postmodern age.
As for me, I think it's probably just something old that seems new again. These things happen, and quite often.
See: Story.
Despite its origins as a method of communication between the ample alpine peaks in that mountainous country, the art fell into disuse as modernity made it seem old-fashioned and kitschy.
According to some, its resurgence may be a sign of yearning for a more traditional identity in a postmodern age.
As for me, I think it's probably just something old that seems new again. These things happen, and quite often.
Nude Swimming Makes Waves In China
The practice of skinny-dipping in public is accepted in various parts of the world, although more so in Europe than in most places in the United States.
Now it seems that swimming in the buff has become a cause celebre in China. That may be because longstanding doctrines within the Communist Party seem positively Puritanical in their sexual morality. Some of that conservatism comes through even in today's more relaxed China, where onlookers were shocked recently that bathers at a public beach would strip down to their birthday suits while venturing into the water.
See: Reuters story.
Now it seems that swimming in the buff has become a cause celebre in China. That may be because longstanding doctrines within the Communist Party seem positively Puritanical in their sexual morality. Some of that conservatism comes through even in today's more relaxed China, where onlookers were shocked recently that bathers at a public beach would strip down to their birthday suits while venturing into the water.
See: Reuters story.
CNN: NASA "Grounds" Shuttle Fleet Due To Debris
Breaking news from CNN.com, confirmed a few minutes ago by a special report from CBS Radio News:
NASA has "grounded" [see second edit, below -- Ed.] the Shuttle fleet because of concerns that the separation of foam insulation from the Shuttle's external fuel tank, which was seen in yesterday's launch of Discovery, may reoccur in future launches.
The Discovery itself was not affected by the debris. Future missions, however, will not be launched before NASA addresses the issue.
There is no word on whether this means that the Atlantis, which stands ready to launch within weeks as a rescue vehicle for the crew of the Discovery, is barred from that mission even if its services are required.
[EDIT] 7:43 p.m. It appears that STS-300 is still being processed. Source: NASA-TV press conference.
[EDIT] 8:05 a.m. July 28, 2005: During a live post-MMT briefing, a NASA official said that the term "ground" was not used. He did said that the Shuttle will not fly until the PAL ramp is fixed.
NASA has "grounded" [see second edit, below -- Ed.] the Shuttle fleet because of concerns that the separation of foam insulation from the Shuttle's external fuel tank, which was seen in yesterday's launch of Discovery, may reoccur in future launches.
The Discovery itself was not affected by the debris. Future missions, however, will not be launched before NASA addresses the issue.
There is no word on whether this means that the Atlantis, which stands ready to launch within weeks as a rescue vehicle for the crew of the Discovery, is barred from that mission even if its services are required.
[EDIT] 7:43 p.m. It appears that STS-300 is still being processed. Source: NASA-TV press conference.
[EDIT] 8:05 a.m. July 28, 2005: During a live post-MMT briefing, a NASA official said that the term "ground" was not used. He did said that the Shuttle will not fly until the PAL ramp is fixed.
Americans Take Pride In Space Program
About three-quarters polled in a CNN/USA Today poll approved of America's Space Shuttle program.^1
My informal sense of America's pride in the space program concurs with this finding. Much of what is covered in space is presented with a positive glow in the news media.
However, the media can turn on a dime, and some have already been on the prowl on the recent Shuttle damage story.
Let's all remember that NASA represents the American people, and that this pride should be in our efforts. Whatever happens, the media's spin cannot change that fact.
1. Source of information about the poll: BBC analysis.
My informal sense of America's pride in the space program concurs with this finding. Much of what is covered in space is presented with a positive glow in the news media.
However, the media can turn on a dime, and some have already been on the prowl on the recent Shuttle damage story.
Let's all remember that NASA represents the American people, and that this pride should be in our efforts. Whatever happens, the media's spin cannot change that fact.
1. Source of information about the poll: BBC analysis.
Pentagon Mulls Plans To Slash F-22, JSF Programs
The F-22 and JSF fighter aircraft programs may be slashed by Pentagon planners as part of a move to address growing budget concerns, according to a recent news article.
Both programs are guarded jealously by the Air Force, and cuts in the JSF program would also affect other services destined to receive them as replacements for current aircraft.
Such plans, if implemented, would receive strong opposition from those in Congress interested in preserving the projects' benefits for their home districts.
For more information, see: Story.
Comment: Both the F-22 and JSF are necessary to assure American superiority in the face of growing threats from increasingly sophisticated foreign air forces. It is short-sighted to slash these programs in the belief that the only threats we face are those from foreign terror groups.
Both programs are guarded jealously by the Air Force, and cuts in the JSF program would also affect other services destined to receive them as replacements for current aircraft.
Such plans, if implemented, would receive strong opposition from those in Congress interested in preserving the projects' benefits for their home districts.
For more information, see: Story.
Comment: Both the F-22 and JSF are necessary to assure American superiority in the face of growing threats from increasingly sophisticated foreign air forces. It is short-sighted to slash these programs in the belief that the only threats we face are those from foreign terror groups.
Raytheon Develops A Unique Concept For Unmanned Lunar Lander
Raytheon, a major military contractor, has plans to offer its vision of an unmanned lunar lander to NASA.
Its innovative idea is to build a probe that can not only land on the Moon's surface, but take off again to map and explore new sites.
For more information on this "hopping" lunar lander, see: Story in Daily Star.
Its innovative idea is to build a probe that can not only land on the Moon's surface, but take off again to map and explore new sites.
For more information on this "hopping" lunar lander, see: Story in Daily Star.
NASA: Small Businesses Encouraged To Apply For CEV Subcontracting Work
NASA has issued a request for information on sources available to perform subcontacting work on the forthcoming CEV (Crew Exploration Vehicle) project.
For more information, see: SpaceRef.com article.
For more information, see: SpaceRef.com article.
Shuttle Damage Not Cause For Alarm
The damage caused to the Discovery's heat tiles and indications of something peeling off its external fuel tank, both recorded by an onboard video camera occurring during the ship's hypersonic ascent to space, are not deemed flight safety issues of immediate concern to the Discovery at this time.
After a day of reviewing video and other data giving NASA engineers more information on the severity of the damage, and after the Shuttle completed a laser and digital video survey of the outside of the ship, NASA seemed confident that while the 1 1/2-inch chip in the aft clamshell door of Discovery's forward wheel well remained of interest, there was no need for measures to repair it. NASA also did not see an immediate flight safety issue with what appeared to be a piece of foam insulation that fell off the external fuel tank but cleared the orbiter.
Source of information: CBS Radio News (KNX-AM).
After a day of reviewing video and other data giving NASA engineers more information on the severity of the damage, and after the Shuttle completed a laser and digital video survey of the outside of the ship, NASA seemed confident that while the 1 1/2-inch chip in the aft clamshell door of Discovery's forward wheel well remained of interest, there was no need for measures to repair it. NASA also did not see an immediate flight safety issue with what appeared to be a piece of foam insulation that fell off the external fuel tank but cleared the orbiter.
Source of information: CBS Radio News (KNX-AM).
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Brazilian's Hometown In Uproar Over London Shooting
According to news reports, a demonstration of public anger and even a call for the arrest of British police officers has struck the hometown of the Brazilian suspect who was killed last week by members of an elite anti-terrorism unit when, according to the authorities, he ran from police and failed to heed their orders.
According to police, Jean Charles de Menezes, an electrician and native of Brazil who was in Britain on a visa, was wearing a suspiciously heavy coat when he left a residential building monitored by authorities who had found its address among the effects of terrorist suspects believed to be responsible for the recent subway and bus bombings in London. Suspecting him of involvement in the bombings, plainclothes police tailed Menezes as he rode a bus to a subway station. Chasing Menezes through the station, officers pinned him to the ground after he fell and shot him eight times. The Metropolitan Police later issued an apology for his death after finding that their suspicions were incorrect.
The Foreign Minister of Brazil has met with the British government over the incident, which threatens to cause a rift in Britain's relations with Brazil.
According to news sources, British Foreign Minister Jack Straw has issued an unreserved apology for the shooting and said that a claim for monetary compensation from Meneze's family should be expedited. Separately, it was reported that the family is asking to be compensated in the amount of $500,000.00.
GONZAGA, Brazil - Hundreds of relatives and friends of a Brazilian shot to death in London after being mistaken for a terrorist marched along the cobblestone streets of his hometown Monday, demanding the arrest of the British police who fired the fatal shots.Source: Story at Yahoo! News website.
According to police, Jean Charles de Menezes, an electrician and native of Brazil who was in Britain on a visa, was wearing a suspiciously heavy coat when he left a residential building monitored by authorities who had found its address among the effects of terrorist suspects believed to be responsible for the recent subway and bus bombings in London. Suspecting him of involvement in the bombings, plainclothes police tailed Menezes as he rode a bus to a subway station. Chasing Menezes through the station, officers pinned him to the ground after he fell and shot him eight times. The Metropolitan Police later issued an apology for his death after finding that their suspicions were incorrect.
The Foreign Minister of Brazil has met with the British government over the incident, which threatens to cause a rift in Britain's relations with Brazil.
According to news sources, British Foreign Minister Jack Straw has issued an unreserved apology for the shooting and said that a claim for monetary compensation from Meneze's family should be expedited. Separately, it was reported that the family is asking to be compensated in the amount of $500,000.00.
Recordings Of Gene Roddenberry, Trek Convention Requested
A post appearing on a popular Star Trek Internet bulletin board today seeks the help of the public in obtaining audio or video recordings of Gene Roddenberry, and his appearance at a certain Trek convention, to use in a documentary film. The post, written by a "js", is self-explanatory.
I have no connection with the requesting party. I am merely reposting the message without endorsing it; please review and upon your due diligence, if you have such photographs you desire to be used for the requested purposes, contact the website listed in the message.
This article may be removed at any time.
I have no connection with the requesting party. I am merely reposting the message without endorsing it; please review and upon your due diligence, if you have such photographs you desire to be used for the requested purposes, contact the website listed in the message.
Hi all,
Posting here on behalf of Eugene W. Roddenberry Jr. who is in the finishing stages of his documentary 'Trek Nation' about the impact of Gene Roddenberry on popular culture vs. the impact on his own life by the man that he knew simply as his father.
He is specifically seeking footage of two events: any audio or video recordings of Gene's memorial service in Los Angeles and any video footage of himself and his father at the Creation 25th anniversary Star Trek convention in Los Angeles (at which point Gene was in a wheelchair).
If you or anyone you know has this footage, please contact the filmmakers via their website at:
Please feel free to repost this request anywhere relevant. Thanks for your help!
This article may be removed at any time.
UCLA Live: The Vital Arts
UCLA's cultural activities program, UCLA Live, offers a wide range of performing arts suitable for a variety of tastes.
I recently received a handsome booklet for its 2005-2006 program and was pleased to see offerings from the comedy of John Cleese to cutting-edge theatrical performances, and everything in between.
Ticket prices vary but are consummately reasonable considering the value received.
For more information, see: UCLA Live official website.
I recently received a handsome booklet for its 2005-2006 program and was pleased to see offerings from the comedy of John Cleese to cutting-edge theatrical performances, and everything in between.
Ticket prices vary but are consummately reasonable considering the value received.
For more information, see: UCLA Live official website.
Russia May Offer Lunar Tourism
Russia's Federal Space Agency is reviewing the feasibility of launching tourist flights to the Moon, sources say.
Industry proponents of the plan have proposed using rockets built by Energiya to power a program to send well-heeled tourists on a space flight beyond near-Earth orbit. Private citizens with $100 million to spare would be accepted as candidates for a trip around the Earth and Moon, according to Moscow News and Reuters.
For more information, see: Reuters article.
Industry proponents of the plan have proposed using rockets built by Energiya to power a program to send well-heeled tourists on a space flight beyond near-Earth orbit. Private citizens with $100 million to spare would be accepted as candidates for a trip around the Earth and Moon, according to Moscow News and Reuters.
For more information, see: Reuters article.
What Is Project Constellation? (Space Daily)
The website, SpaceDaily.com, recently published an informative article on Project Constellation, a national spaceflight initiative for which NASA has been tasked.
The article presents an overview of what may be in store for space enthusiasts who have been calling for the return of manned missions to the Moon and beyond. With news of overwhelming Congressional endorsement of the vision outlined in this Project, the prospects for the realization of this dream looks positive indeed.
See: Article posted at SpaceDaily.com.
The article presents an overview of what may be in store for space enthusiasts who have been calling for the return of manned missions to the Moon and beyond. With news of overwhelming Congressional endorsement of the vision outlined in this Project, the prospects for the realization of this dream looks positive indeed.
See: Article posted at SpaceDaily.com.
Colonizing Space And Mars
I'm watching several television screens. On one is NASA television. On another is continuing, live coverage by NBC, carried on MSNBC.
An expert interviewed on MSNBC spoke of the "big dream" that we must dream, and expressed his hope that we will eventually not only land individuals on Mars, but colonize it.
America's dreams for landing astronauts on the Moon in ten years are now common knowledge, and the President, Congress, NASA, and space enthusiasts all around the world are looking forward to and working toward that goal.
The "big dream" of colonizing space and Mars goes beyond even that. According to NBC, humanity has had a continuous presence in orbital space since 2000. In a sense, we've already started the process of colonizing space. The challenge is to continue to dream, and to make that dream a reality.
Soon, for the first time, humanity may become an interplanetary species.
Let us all work in concert toward that beautiful objective.
An expert interviewed on MSNBC spoke of the "big dream" that we must dream, and expressed his hope that we will eventually not only land individuals on Mars, but colonize it.
America's dreams for landing astronauts on the Moon in ten years are now common knowledge, and the President, Congress, NASA, and space enthusiasts all around the world are looking forward to and working toward that goal.
The "big dream" of colonizing space and Mars goes beyond even that. According to NBC, humanity has had a continuous presence in orbital space since 2000. In a sense, we've already started the process of colonizing space. The challenge is to continue to dream, and to make that dream a reality.
Soon, for the first time, humanity may become an interplanetary species.
Let us all work in concert toward that beautiful objective.
Return To Flight
NASA's Shuttle Discovery has achieved spaceflight and the U.S. has returned to manned missions in space along with it.
Congratulations to NASA for a spectacular success.
Congratulations to NASA for a spectacular success.
ISS Prepared To Receive Shuttle Discovery
The crewmembers of the International Space Station have spent the last several days preparing to rendezvous with the Shuttle Discovery.
The Discovery will approach and dock with the ISS as part of its mission to resupply the station and conduct return-to-flight activities. Station crew members will conduct visual and photographic surveys of the ship upon its approach with the goal of assuring flight safety, and to assist in this objective, the Shuttle will be maneuvered by its command crew to give the station a full view of its heat resistant tiles.
Source: Link to NASA story.
Shuttle Discovery's countdown is proceeding as scheduled as of this writing.
The Discovery will approach and dock with the ISS as part of its mission to resupply the station and conduct return-to-flight activities. Station crew members will conduct visual and photographic surveys of the ship upon its approach with the goal of assuring flight safety, and to assist in this objective, the Shuttle will be maneuvered by its command crew to give the station a full view of its heat resistant tiles.
Source: Link to NASA story.
Shuttle Discovery's countdown is proceeding as scheduled as of this writing.
CBO Questions Cost Of Navy's Next Generation Destroyer
An official from the Congressional Budget Office presented testimony to the House Armed Services Committee that departed in significant respects from earlier statements by defense contractors concerning the costs of the Navy's DD(X) program.
Budget analyst Michael Gilmore testified July 20 that the maximum cost of the first ship in the program would be $4.7 billion, rather than the $4.5 billion projected by witnesses from the defense industry. The DD(X) is an entirely new class of destroyer that will eventually replace the current generation of destroyers. The Navy anticipates the need for up to 12 of these new ships.
Source: DefenseNews.com (subscription required).
Budget analyst Michael Gilmore testified July 20 that the maximum cost of the first ship in the program would be $4.7 billion, rather than the $4.5 billion projected by witnesses from the defense industry. The DD(X) is an entirely new class of destroyer that will eventually replace the current generation of destroyers. The Navy anticipates the need for up to 12 of these new ships.
Source: DefenseNews.com (subscription required).
Intel Will Build New Plant, Reactivate Another
Microprocessor giant Intel has announced that it will build a $3 billion computer chip manufacturing facility in Chandler, Arizona. Construction is to begin immediately. The plant, which will be Intel's sixth, is expected to be ready in 2007.
Intel will also reactivate a dormant plant in New Mexico, which it will use as a test facility.
Source: Link to MSNBC story.
Comment: With computer chips found in such ordinary items as coffee makers and air purifiers, Intel and others clearly have a market for their products.
Computerized devices seem very much a part of everyday life.
There is talk that RFID's, or radio frequency identification tags, may be used for retail applications. Such devices assist retailers in tracking products by conveying detailed information to receivers configured to track them. Some privacy advocates fear that such devices offer the potential for abuse, since RFID's are so small that they could be hidden in products, or consumers could fail to remove them after purchasing items containing them.
It is not known whether Intel is involved in RFID technology.
Intel will also reactivate a dormant plant in New Mexico, which it will use as a test facility.
Source: Link to MSNBC story.
Comment: With computer chips found in such ordinary items as coffee makers and air purifiers, Intel and others clearly have a market for their products.
Computerized devices seem very much a part of everyday life.
There is talk that RFID's, or radio frequency identification tags, may be used for retail applications. Such devices assist retailers in tracking products by conveying detailed information to receivers configured to track them. Some privacy advocates fear that such devices offer the potential for abuse, since RFID's are so small that they could be hidden in products, or consumers could fail to remove them after purchasing items containing them.
It is not known whether Intel is involved in RFID technology.
Six-Party Talks To Resume On N. Korea Nuclear Arms
Six-party talks on the future of North Korea's development of nuclear arms are due to begin shortly after that country agreed to return to negotiations more than a year after a walkout.
The United States, China, Russia, Japan, and South Korea have sought to engage North Korea in talks to secure the termination of its nuclear weapons development, but for 13 months, North Korea has insisted on various conditions before it would address the issue, including direct talks with the United States, which was officially refused. The U.S. has, however, engaged in unofficial discussions with North Korea, which decided to return to the table after a statement of the recognition of its sovereignty was issued by Assistant U.S. Secretary of State Christopher Hill at a meeting with his counterpart.
The Bush Administration has said that the involvement of all six interested parties is vital to a resolution of its dispute with the Communist country over its nuclear arms development, which the U.S. has consistently opposed.
See: Link.
The United States, China, Russia, Japan, and South Korea have sought to engage North Korea in talks to secure the termination of its nuclear weapons development, but for 13 months, North Korea has insisted on various conditions before it would address the issue, including direct talks with the United States, which was officially refused. The U.S. has, however, engaged in unofficial discussions with North Korea, which decided to return to the table after a statement of the recognition of its sovereignty was issued by Assistant U.S. Secretary of State Christopher Hill at a meeting with his counterpart.
The Bush Administration has said that the involvement of all six interested parties is vital to a resolution of its dispute with the Communist country over its nuclear arms development, which the U.S. has consistently opposed.
See: Link.
"Star Trek" Will Be Back, Says Actor-Director
Jonathan Frakes is confident that Star Trek will eventually return to production, and he hopes that when the time comes, he will reprise his role as "Commander Riker".
Frakes is best known for his work on Star Trek: The Next Generation, both as an actor and as the director of the highly successful film, Star Trek: First Contact.
Source: Link.
Frakes is best known for his work on Star Trek: The Next Generation, both as an actor and as the director of the highly successful film, Star Trek: First Contact.
Source: Link.
Boeing Receives Order For 30 More Jets
The Brazilian carrier Gol, a highly successful low-cost carrier, has increased its order for Boeing 737-800 jets by 30 aircraft. The carrier's orders of Boeing airliners now total 60, and it has the option of ordering 41 more.
The new order is worth $1.85 billion.
Source: Link.
The new order is worth $1.85 billion.
Source: Link.
Watching Live Coverage Of Shuttle
I'm currently watching live coverage of preparations for lift-off of STS-114. The Discovery has been fully fueled and sits magnificently on the launchpad.
We are at T minus three hours and the count has just proceeded after a planned hold.
[Edit] The mission astronauts have just departed in a helicopter-escorted motorcade to board the Shuttle. (Live coverage, NASA TV.)
[Edit] The astronauts are in the involved process of boarding the Shuttle. Live camera shots include a new angle showing the astronauts being strapped into their seats in the mid-deck of the Shuttle.
[Edit] All astronauts are securely strapped in aboard the Discovery and are proceeding with preflight checklists. An assistant is aboard the ship to help the crew in preparations. Four crewmembers are on the flight deck and three others are on the mid-deck. Launch countdown is nominal.
[Edit] Success!
We are at T minus three hours and the count has just proceeded after a planned hold.
[Edit] The mission astronauts have just departed in a helicopter-escorted motorcade to board the Shuttle. (Live coverage, NASA TV.)
[Edit] The astronauts are in the involved process of boarding the Shuttle. Live camera shots include a new angle showing the astronauts being strapped into their seats in the mid-deck of the Shuttle.
[Edit] All astronauts are securely strapped in aboard the Discovery and are proceeding with preflight checklists. An assistant is aboard the ship to help the crew in preparations. Four crewmembers are on the flight deck and three others are on the mid-deck. Launch countdown is nominal.
[Edit] Success!
Saturday, July 23, 2005
Canadian Troops Headed Toward Afghan Front Lines
According to an article available at the official website for The Toronto Star, the current commitment of Canadian armed forces in Afghanistan will be phased out and a new, more muscular contingent of troops including those formerly assigned to Kabul will be sent to the front lines.
Canadian troops now patrol areas of Kabul, the country's capital, protecting the city in a peace-keeping role. But by October of year, those troops will be transferred to compose part of a force of 1,500 Canadian soldiers in Kandahar, a far more dangerous region that poses unusually high risks even for the military. Canadian troops will be expected to take command of that region as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, whose overall goal in the postwar period is to suppress insurgent Taliban attacks which have resulted in significant American and other casualties.
Elements of Canada's Joint Task Force 2, an elite counter-terrorism unit, are due to arrive in Afghanistan in the coming months, along with 250 troops based in Edmonton, Alberta.
Canadian troops served with great valor and distinction in World War II, and there is every reason to believe that they will continue to do so in support of Enduring Freedom.
Canadian troops now patrol areas of Kabul, the country's capital, protecting the city in a peace-keeping role. But by October of year, those troops will be transferred to compose part of a force of 1,500 Canadian soldiers in Kandahar, a far more dangerous region that poses unusually high risks even for the military. Canadian troops will be expected to take command of that region as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, whose overall goal in the postwar period is to suppress insurgent Taliban attacks which have resulted in significant American and other casualties.
Elements of Canada's Joint Task Force 2, an elite counter-terrorism unit, are due to arrive in Afghanistan in the coming months, along with 250 troops based in Edmonton, Alberta.
Canadian troops served with great valor and distinction in World War II, and there is every reason to believe that they will continue to do so in support of Enduring Freedom.
On My Reading List - July 23, 2005
On my reading list is Roger Penrose's new book, The Road to Reality: A Complete Guide to the Laws of the Universe.
The book promises to explain the course of our scholarly and scientific understanding of universal concepts, from ancient Greek theories to current thinking about the structures behind spacetime itself.
Roger Penrose is a respected physicist who is often mentioned in the same breath as Stephen Hawking.
The books is for sale both online and at traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
The book promises to explain the course of our scholarly and scientific understanding of universal concepts, from ancient Greek theories to current thinking about the structures behind spacetime itself.
Roger Penrose is a respected physicist who is often mentioned in the same breath as Stephen Hawking.
The books is for sale both online and at traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
"Firefly" To Make Cinematic Return
The critically acclaimed "cult" science fiction television series, Firefly, will make its triumphant return on the silver screen in September, 2005, according to a recent report.
Show creator Joss Whedon is the director of Serenity, described as a "space Western" in the tradition of its television predecessor. Starring the same cast as its previous incarnation, the movie marks a resurrection for the franchise, whose series was canceled by Fox despite a strong fan following.
See: Source.
Show creator Joss Whedon is the director of Serenity, described as a "space Western" in the tradition of its television predecessor. Starring the same cast as its previous incarnation, the movie marks a resurrection for the franchise, whose series was canceled by Fox despite a strong fan following.
See: Source.
What Is Real?
The grunts in the Battlestar Galactica look like today's grunts. Especially the leader of the party that the Chief is in. They all look real -- 21st Century real.
And that's part of Galactica's charm. By contrast, a series like Star Trek is different. Trek presents a "better", more evolved future. And yes, people 400 years from now may be a bit different from today. Not fundamentally, but slightly. Just as we are different, in some ways, from folks who lived in 1605. Even the casting decisions were meant to reflect that.
The latest Galactica episode presents horror and beauty -- not the sci-fi horror of monsters and mutations, but the psychological horror of constant war. But there is beauty, as well -- the beauty of life, the beauty of hope, the beauty, above all, of resilience. The realism of it is meant to connect directly to each of us, in this century.
So what does it all mean? The question is meant to be what it means. The question is what is meant. We are meant to question where this is going, because while it is fun to see the dynamics of each character and each group, it is also fun, and tantalizing, to try to understand why the sacred are the dead, and why the dead are sacred, and why Baltar is dreaming of a drowning baby in a mythological place as he talks to an invisible Cylon woman. The series is much more radical than it pretends, because it questions the nature of mythology. Is our life real? Is it relevant to mythology? Are we creating our own mythology in what we do?
Our security in ourselves is sometimes all we have, and that sometimes, even that isn't enough.
This is heady stuff for us to analyze, and Ronald Moore, the man most responsible for Galactica and a former Trek producer, is having fun as much as we are.
It's a brilliant way to end the week, and a helluva way to start a weekend. Who could ask for anything more?
And that's part of Galactica's charm. By contrast, a series like Star Trek is different. Trek presents a "better", more evolved future. And yes, people 400 years from now may be a bit different from today. Not fundamentally, but slightly. Just as we are different, in some ways, from folks who lived in 1605. Even the casting decisions were meant to reflect that.
The latest Galactica episode presents horror and beauty -- not the sci-fi horror of monsters and mutations, but the psychological horror of constant war. But there is beauty, as well -- the beauty of life, the beauty of hope, the beauty, above all, of resilience. The realism of it is meant to connect directly to each of us, in this century.
So what does it all mean? The question is meant to be what it means. The question is what is meant. We are meant to question where this is going, because while it is fun to see the dynamics of each character and each group, it is also fun, and tantalizing, to try to understand why the sacred are the dead, and why the dead are sacred, and why Baltar is dreaming of a drowning baby in a mythological place as he talks to an invisible Cylon woman. The series is much more radical than it pretends, because it questions the nature of mythology. Is our life real? Is it relevant to mythology? Are we creating our own mythology in what we do?
Our security in ourselves is sometimes all we have, and that sometimes, even that isn't enough.
This is heady stuff for us to analyze, and Ronald Moore, the man most responsible for Galactica and a former Trek producer, is having fun as much as we are.
It's a brilliant way to end the week, and a helluva way to start a weekend. Who could ask for anything more?
NASA Multimedia Feature Offers Vision For Manned Exploration
NASA's official website offers multimedia presentations concerning its plans to return humankind to the Moon and to launch manned missions to Mars. Flash features, including video clips, are hosted by space explorers past and present, from Neil Armstrong to the Shuttle astronauts and planetary scientists of today.
For a look at humanity's future in orbital, lunar, and interplanetary space and the central role Project Constellation will play, visit NASA's exploration portal.
For a look at humanity's future in orbital, lunar, and interplanetary space and the central role Project Constellation will play, visit NASA's exploration portal.
Project Constellation: May, 2004 Pre-Solicitation
The following is a link to a May, 2004 document which outlined for potential industry bidders the basic development strategy for manned lunar and Martian missions as envisioned in NASA's Project Constellation.
Project Constellation arose from President George W. Bush's vision for a manned return to the Moon and eventual human exploration of Mars.
Since the publication and distribution of the document, major industrial partners such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing have signed agreements to develop plans and specifications for the actual spacecraft necessary to implement the Project.
The document is provided here for informational, historical, and reference purposes.
Source: Link.
Project Constellation arose from President George W. Bush's vision for a manned return to the Moon and eventual human exploration of Mars.
Since the publication and distribution of the document, major industrial partners such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing have signed agreements to develop plans and specifications for the actual spacecraft necessary to implement the Project.
The document is provided here for informational, historical, and reference purposes.
Source: Link.
NASA To Launch Extreme Mars Orbiter
NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter is a spacecraft of many superlatives: Weighing two tons, it is capable of sending back ten times as much data per minute as previous craft; it carries the largest antenna ever developed for a planetary probe; it will photograph, from orbit, details as small as an office desk; and it is the first Martian spacecraft intended to scope out potential landing sites for future manned missions.
And that's only the beginning.
The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter is currently in the final stages of preparation before launch.
For details, see: Link.
And that's only the beginning.
The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter is currently in the final stages of preparation before launch.
For details, see: Link.
Friday, July 22, 2005
U.S. House Backs Presidential Plan For NASA
By a very large margin, the U.S. House of Representatives has backed President Bush's plan to send human explorers back to the Moon and eventually land astronauts on Mars.^1 The plan, known as "Project Constellation", contemplates achieving the first goal in as soon as ten years.
NASA has already committed several million dollars in pursuit of the plan through agreements with major defense contractors to design the space vehicles necessary to return astronauts to the Moon, a destination that saw its last human footprints more than three decades ago.
As outlined by NASA's Administrator, Dr. Michael Griffin, a Crew Exploration Vehicle would be launched atop a modified version of one of the Shuttle's solid rocket boosters. At the same time, the heavy lift required to launch equipment required for a lunar journey would be provided by a version of the Shuttle which would replace the Orbiter with a payload carrier.
Under the President's plan, manned journeys to Mars would occur about five years after humanity's return to the Moon.
1. Source: Link.
NASA has already committed several million dollars in pursuit of the plan through agreements with major defense contractors to design the space vehicles necessary to return astronauts to the Moon, a destination that saw its last human footprints more than three decades ago.
As outlined by NASA's Administrator, Dr. Michael Griffin, a Crew Exploration Vehicle would be launched atop a modified version of one of the Shuttle's solid rocket boosters. At the same time, the heavy lift required to launch equipment required for a lunar journey would be provided by a version of the Shuttle which would replace the Orbiter with a payload carrier.
Under the President's plan, manned journeys to Mars would occur about five years after humanity's return to the Moon.
1. Source: Link.
The Horror And The Beauty
Things exist
Not to please us, not to harm us
They exist, they are
What
They are.
Given the apple of truth
Why did we eat it?
Another week, another episode of Battlestar Galactica. And we press on, secure in the knowledge that humanity will come back again, if only for another week.
Really, what is this? U.S. Marines in space.
We asked for it. We got it.
A bit of violence, a bit of sacred mythology.
A bit of this, a bit of that.
And what sense does it make?
What sense does any of this make?
Not to please us, not to harm us
They exist, they are
What
They are.
Given the apple of truth
Why did we eat it?
Another week, another episode of Battlestar Galactica. And we press on, secure in the knowledge that humanity will come back again, if only for another week.
Really, what is this? U.S. Marines in space.
We asked for it. We got it.
A bit of violence, a bit of sacred mythology.
A bit of this, a bit of that.
And what sense does it make?
What sense does any of this make?
New CBS Drama To Explore Consequences Of Alien Contact
Threshold, a new dramatic series offered by CBS, will explore the world as it would be after substantiated news of contact with extraterrestrials.
Among the stars of the series will be Star Trek's Brent Spiner ("Data" on Star Trek: The Next Generation).
According to one report, the series seemed particularly appropriate in an age marked by fears over attacks on the homeland.
Source: Link.
Among the stars of the series will be Star Trek's Brent Spiner ("Data" on Star Trek: The Next Generation).
According to one report, the series seemed particularly appropriate in an age marked by fears over attacks on the homeland.
Source: Link.
Newest "Star Trek" Anthology Receives Critical Acclaim
Tales from the Captain's Table, the newest anthology based on the Star Trek universe, has won praise from Henry Price, a critic with the media website, The Trades.
Price says that the anthology presents an intriguing new framework for its stories, centering around first meetings between Trek characters, and offers the reader short stories ranging from the thrilling to the downright silly.
For the review, click here.
Price says that the anthology presents an intriguing new framework for its stories, centering around first meetings between Trek characters, and offers the reader short stories ranging from the thrilling to the downright silly.
For the review, click here.
Motion Picture Based On Original Trek Conventions Planned
Paul Hernandez, a screenwriter known for his work on the movie Sky High, will direct a movie based on the origins of the Star Trek fanship phenomenon.
In a recent article, Mr. Hernandez explained that the movie Star Date, which he will direct, will show how a group of young fans looking to attract like-minded girls spread the word of a party to celebrate Star Trek, only to attract the interest of 10,000 of that exotic species of individuals dubbed, "Trekkies".
Mr. Hernandez himself is a fan of Star Trek.
For details, see:
Article.
In a recent article, Mr. Hernandez explained that the movie Star Date, which he will direct, will show how a group of young fans looking to attract like-minded girls spread the word of a party to celebrate Star Trek, only to attract the interest of 10,000 of that exotic species of individuals dubbed, "Trekkies".
Mr. Hernandez himself is a fan of Star Trek.
For details, see:
Article.
London Police Release Photos Of Suspected Bombers
London authorities have released photographs of four suspects in yesterday's subway and bus bombings.
Police are "urgently seeking" the help of the public in identifying these individuals.
A fifth suspect was shot dead as he ran from police in the subway.
Police have apprehended two suspects in yesterday's bombing.
See: CNN and other news networks.
Police are "urgently seeking" the help of the public in identifying these individuals.
A fifth suspect was shot dead as he ran from police in the subway.
Police have apprehended two suspects in yesterday's bombing.
See: CNN and other news networks.
Thursday, July 21, 2005
NASA Probe Could Reveal Apollo Landing Sites
NASA plans to launch a new probe to take detailed photographs and other readings of the Moon. Photographs taken by the spacecraft, called the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), will be of such high resolution that the landing sites and even lunar rovers of the Apollo manned missions of the 1960's and 1970's will be visible.
The LRO, due to be launched around 2008, is designed to use on-board instruments to take photographs and laser altimetry of the lunar surface in preparation for NASA's future manned missions to the Moon. NASA specifically plans to direct the craft to take photographs of Apollo landing sites.
One only hopes that this will finally quell any speculation that NASA did not really succeed in sending men on the Moon and that the landings there were faked.
Source: Link.
The LRO, due to be launched around 2008, is designed to use on-board instruments to take photographs and laser altimetry of the lunar surface in preparation for NASA's future manned missions to the Moon. NASA specifically plans to direct the craft to take photographs of Apollo landing sites.
One only hopes that this will finally quell any speculation that NASA did not really succeed in sending men on the Moon and that the landings there were faked.
Source: Link.
Former Hacker Claims U.S. May Operate Secret Space Navy
The Space Command division of the United States Air Force was once an independent organization tasked with certain functions relating to U.S. space assets. As I recall, the Space Command has since been integrated with the Strategic Command.
A former hacker from Australia claims that he once broke into the secret files of the U.S. Space Command and found something startling.
The U.S., of course, would the existence of any such fleet.
It's up to you whom to believe.
1. Source: Link.
A former hacker from Australia claims that he once broke into the secret files of the U.S. Space Command and found something startling.
"I found a list of officers' names," he says, "under the heading
'Non-Terrestrial Officers'…. It doesn't mean little green men. What I think it means is not Earth-based. I found a list of 'fleet-to-fleet transfers', and a list of ship names. I looked them up. They weren't US Navy ships. What I saw made me believe they have some kind of spaceship, off-planet."^1
The U.S., of course, would the existence of any such fleet.
It's up to you whom to believe.
1. Source: Link.
Are World Militaries Reverse-Engineering UFO's?
A recent news article claims that militaries belonging to some of the world's most powerful countries have reversed-engineered, or are in the process of reverse-engineering, technologies gleaned from extraterrestrial craft.
Periodically, claims of this variety surface in the public consciousness, but inevitably, nothing comes of them.
Some groups claim that information about the existence of UFO's is intentionally suppressed by secret governmental authorities. However, almost without exception, there is no way to confirm this kind of theory.
The jury is still out as to whether UFO's are what the proponents of such theories claim them to be.
See: Link.
Periodically, claims of this variety surface in the public consciousness, but inevitably, nothing comes of them.
Some groups claim that information about the existence of UFO's is intentionally suppressed by secret governmental authorities. However, almost without exception, there is no way to confirm this kind of theory.
The jury is still out as to whether UFO's are what the proponents of such theories claim them to be.
See: Link.
Teacher Accuses Principal Of Retaliation For Republican Support
A teacher in a school district in the State of New York has filed a federal discrimination suit against the principal of a school in which she formerly taught.
In the lawsuit, the principal is alleged to have engaged in acts of retaliation against the teacher because of the latter's outside work on behalf of the Republican Party.
Among other things, the principal is alleged to have ordered the removal of the portrait of the President from the teacher's classroom.
According to the source linked to below, the principal happens to be the wife of a Democratic State Assemblyman.
Source: Link.
In the lawsuit, the principal is alleged to have engaged in acts of retaliation against the teacher because of the latter's outside work on behalf of the Republican Party.
Among other things, the principal is alleged to have ordered the removal of the portrait of the President from the teacher's classroom.
According to the source linked to below, the principal happens to be the wife of a Democratic State Assemblyman.
Source: Link.
U.S. House Supports President On Iraq Withdrawal, Guantanamo Detention
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill overwhelmingly denying calls for an early withdrawal from Iraq, defeating Democratic calls for the President to set a timetable to pull American troops from that country. To do so would only create opportunities for the enemy, the House bill indicated.
The House, by a large margin, also indicated that the detention of suspects at Guatanamo Bay is "essential" in the war against terrorism.
See: Link.
The House, by a large margin, also indicated that the detention of suspects at Guatanamo Bay is "essential" in the war against terrorism.
See: Link.
President's Nominee Continues To Impress
Expectations for a successful confirmation of Judge John G. Roberts to the Supreme Court were reinforced today when not a single Senate Democrat expressed an intent to vote against Supreme Court nominee.
U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer's widely reported early statement that Judge Roberts' refusal to answer some of his questions during the confirmation process two years ago for his current position was troublesome was apparently not the sentiment of the majority of Democrats, most of whom seemed receptive to his nomination, nor was the statement repeated during Judge Roberts' courtesy visit to Sen. Schumer's office today.
Conservative groups have spoken approvingly of Judge Roberts' character and commitment to judicial impartiality.
By contrast, far-left political groups have urged Americans to oppose the nomination on their fears regarding Judge Roberts' presumed stance on abortion, civil rights, and other issues.
1. Source: Link.
On the second day of a White House-choreographed confirmation campaign, Roberts had yet to draw the public opposition of a single Senate Democrat. Talk of a filibuster and partisan political brawl over the first Supreme Court vacancy in 11 years was nonexistent.^1The President's pick was greeted with enthusiasm by leading Republicans, and even Democrats expressed satisfaction with Judge Roberts' capabilities.
U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer's widely reported early statement that Judge Roberts' refusal to answer some of his questions during the confirmation process two years ago for his current position was troublesome was apparently not the sentiment of the majority of Democrats, most of whom seemed receptive to his nomination, nor was the statement repeated during Judge Roberts' courtesy visit to Sen. Schumer's office today.
Conservative groups have spoken approvingly of Judge Roberts' character and commitment to judicial impartiality.
By contrast, far-left political groups have urged Americans to oppose the nomination on their fears regarding Judge Roberts' presumed stance on abortion, civil rights, and other issues.
1. Source: Link.
What About The Religious Left?
We hear often about the so-called "religious right". But when was the last time you read about the religious left?
I like the religious left, in principle, and wish them luck. I hope they will hew to the teachings of Christ, or Mohammed, or Buddha, or the deity of their choice, as opposed to -- say -- claiming that America is a great evil.
I know that very few religious leftists are anti-American. Yet all too often, you get the Al Sharptons of the world who use their religious positions as an entree to political leftism, and in my book, that's not good at all.
I like the religious left, in principle, and wish them luck. I hope they will hew to the teachings of Christ, or Mohammed, or Buddha, or the deity of their choice, as opposed to -- say -- claiming that America is a great evil.
I know that very few religious leftists are anti-American. Yet all too often, you get the Al Sharptons of the world who use their religious positions as an entree to political leftism, and in my book, that's not good at all.
Departing Justice "Enormously Impressed" By Nominee
Retiring Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor has expressed approval of her proposed replacement, U.S. Appellate Judge John G. Roberts, saying at a conference of judges and lawyers yesterday, "I have watched Judge Roberts since he has been an advocate before our court, and I and my colleagues have been enormously impressed with his scholarship and his skills."
Justice O'Connor was disappointed that a woman was not nominated but apparently did not let this dampen her enthusiasm for Judge Roberts. "I am disappointed, in a sense, to see the percentage of women on our court drop by 50 percent, but I can't be disappointed in the quality of person nominated. He's first rate," she added.
Source:
Link.
Justice O'Connor was disappointed that a woman was not nominated but apparently did not let this dampen her enthusiasm for Judge Roberts. "I am disappointed, in a sense, to see the percentage of women on our court drop by 50 percent, but I can't be disappointed in the quality of person nominated. He's first rate," she added.
Source:
Link.
Explosions Again Heard In London
Fox News Channel, Sky News, and CNN and other sources reported today that there were several relatively weak explosions in the London Underground and on a London city bus in an apparent deliberate reiteration of the powerful explosions that occurred there on July 7.
Dozens of emergency vehicles responded. There have been no reported fatalities.
See, e.g.: http://www.foxnews.com, http://www.cnn.com
UPDATE 1: The British and Australian Prime Ministers, who happened to be in a meeting, responded by holding a joint press conference.
UPDATE 2: Two fugitives have been arrested by the authorities.
Dozens of emergency vehicles responded. There have been no reported fatalities.
See, e.g.: http://www.foxnews.com, http://www.cnn.com
UPDATE 1: The British and Australian Prime Ministers, who happened to be in a meeting, responded by holding a joint press conference.
UPDATE 2: Two fugitives have been arrested by the authorities.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Trek Nostalgia Greets News Of James Doohan's Passing
The passing of James Doohan has brought back great affection for Star Trek, according to an analysis posted on the BBC website.
The storied history of the series and its monumental effect on science fiction were noted.
For the full story, and a number of links to related articles, see:
Link.
The storied history of the series and its monumental effect on science fiction were noted.
For the full story, and a number of links to related articles, see:
Link.
Flowers Placed At James Doohan's Star On Hollywood's Walk Of Fame
Flowers and other loving tributes appeared near the late James Doohan's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, California when news broke that the actor had passed away.
Representatives of the Hollywood Walk of Fame placed a floral memorial there, and fans left candles and other items as they paid their respects throughout the day.
For a picture of the memorial on July 20, see: Photograph.
The site, http://www.startrek.com has comprehensive and continuing news coverage of the passing of this Star Trek luminary.
Mr. Doohan died in his sleep at 5:30 a.m. on July 20, 2005, at his Los Angeles area home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Representatives of the Hollywood Walk of Fame placed a floral memorial there, and fans left candles and other items as they paid their respects throughout the day.
For a picture of the memorial on July 20, see: Photograph.
The site, http://www.startrek.com has comprehensive and continuing news coverage of the passing of this Star Trek luminary.
Mr. Doohan died in his sleep at 5:30 a.m. on July 20, 2005, at his Los Angeles area home, surrounded by his loved ones.
James Doohan Makes Keith Olbermann's "Countdown"
MSNBC's Countdown With Keith Olbermann is covering the passing of James Doohan as I write, representing the fourth most important news item of the day, according to the host.
Very well done. Many clips of Trek, and George Takei is currently being interviewed. Mr. Takei has high praise for his friend.
Source: Above-stated, Pacific Time repeat.
Very well done. Many clips of Trek, and George Takei is currently being interviewed. Mr. Takei has high praise for his friend.
Source: Above-stated, Pacific Time repeat.
U.S. Defense Department Will Deploy "Star Trek" Device In Iraq
According to KNX-AM news radio, a Los Angeles affiliate of CBS News, the Pentagon will deploy a Star Trek-like device in Iraq next year that will inflict less-lethal force in order to achieve crowd control.
The device, called the "Sheriff", is mounted on a Humvee and emits microwave radiation that causes its targets to feel uncomfortable levels of heat. Crowds are expected to disperse in reaction to the device to evade its effects.
KNX noted that, during testing of the weapon, subjects were advised to take off eyeglasses and empty their pockets of coins in order to avoid injury.
Smaller versions of the device are also expected to be eventually deployed.
Source: KNX-AM, Los Angeles.
The device, called the "Sheriff", is mounted on a Humvee and emits microwave radiation that causes its targets to feel uncomfortable levels of heat. Crowds are expected to disperse in reaction to the device to evade its effects.
KNX noted that, during testing of the weapon, subjects were advised to take off eyeglasses and empty their pockets of coins in order to avoid injury.
Smaller versions of the device are also expected to be eventually deployed.
Source: KNX-AM, Los Angeles.
You Can Help Save Voyager And Hubble
The Planetary Society has issued an appeal for all interested parties to help save the Voyager space probes and the Hubble Space Telescope.
Read about the appeal here.
I am a proud member of The Planetary Society and believe in its central mission to move mankind forward in our efforts to discover and investigate the secrets of our universe.
Read about the appeal here.
I am a proud member of The Planetary Society and believe in its central mission to move mankind forward in our efforts to discover and investigate the secrets of our universe.
NASA Plans Tuesday Launch Of Discovery
NASA has set Tuesday, July 26, 2005 as the target date for the launch of the Discovery Space Shuttle, sources say.
The launch of the Discovery was originally set for July 13, 2005 but was delayed because of an unexplained problem with one of several fuel sensors in the Shuttle's main fuel tank. The Shuttle's return to flight after two and a half years of upgrades arising from the loss of the Columbia in 2003 had been widely anticipated but was halted shortly before launch as engineers tried to determine the cause of the failure. The delay was a source of disappointment and frustration, but NASA emphasized at the time the importance of investigating the failure because of the importance of safety over other concerns.
News sources say that the problem with the sensor may be attributable to an electromagnetic or electrical ground fault, and repairs are being made based on that premise. NASA may conclude its investigation while the Discovery is being refueled because of suspicions that the problem may be associated with a fully fueled state.
NASA does not believe that the fuel sensor failure necessarily represents a flight safety problem and may decide to launch the Shuttle on Tuesday even if the sensor fails again.
Sources: KNX-AM radio and the following:
Link.
The launch of the Discovery was originally set for July 13, 2005 but was delayed because of an unexplained problem with one of several fuel sensors in the Shuttle's main fuel tank. The Shuttle's return to flight after two and a half years of upgrades arising from the loss of the Columbia in 2003 had been widely anticipated but was halted shortly before launch as engineers tried to determine the cause of the failure. The delay was a source of disappointment and frustration, but NASA emphasized at the time the importance of investigating the failure because of the importance of safety over other concerns.
News sources say that the problem with the sensor may be attributable to an electromagnetic or electrical ground fault, and repairs are being made based on that premise. NASA may conclude its investigation while the Discovery is being refueled because of suspicions that the problem may be associated with a fully fueled state.
NASA does not believe that the fuel sensor failure necessarily represents a flight safety problem and may decide to launch the Shuttle on Tuesday even if the sensor fails again.
Sources: KNX-AM radio and the following:
Link.
Europe Plans "ExoMars" Mission To Red Planet
Europe plans to launch an unmanned space probe to land on the surface of Mars in 2011, according to a recent report.
Germany has formally endorsed the mission and is expected to fund a large part of it.
If launched as scheduled, ExoMars will land on Mars in 2013, or about two years after the earliest date on which Americans are expected to return manned missions to the Moon.
The details of the ExoMars program have not yet been determined, but it is a fair bet that the lander could conduct experiments designed to sample the planet for signs of life.
The first experiments designed for this purpose occurred during NASA's Viking missions, which landed on Mars in the mid-1970's. The experiments involved inserting a soil sample into a chemical brine to determine whether traces of gases associated with life could be found. The results were inconclusive.
Source of ExoMars information:
Link.
Germany has formally endorsed the mission and is expected to fund a large part of it.
If launched as scheduled, ExoMars will land on Mars in 2013, or about two years after the earliest date on which Americans are expected to return manned missions to the Moon.
The details of the ExoMars program have not yet been determined, but it is a fair bet that the lander could conduct experiments designed to sample the planet for signs of life.
The first experiments designed for this purpose occurred during NASA's Viking missions, which landed on Mars in the mid-1970's. The experiments involved inserting a soil sample into a chemical brine to determine whether traces of gases associated with life could be found. The results were inconclusive.
Source of ExoMars information:
Link.
ESA Transfers ISS Module Ownership To NASA
On July 7, 2005, the European Space Agency (ESA) formally transferred ownership of the Cupola module of the International Space Station (ISS) to NASA pursuant to a prior agreement between the agencies.
The Cupola module is intended to be sent into orbit and installed during a Shuttle mission. It will serve as a multipurpose, manned module with the capability of command and control over the rest of the Station and accommodating scientific experiments for which the ISS was built.
For further information, see:
Source.
The Cupola module is intended to be sent into orbit and installed during a Shuttle mission. It will serve as a multipurpose, manned module with the capability of command and control over the rest of the Station and accommodating scientific experiments for which the ISS was built.
For further information, see:
Source.
Judge Roberts Garners Praise From Conservative Groups
Judge John G. Roberts, nominee to the Supreme Court, received the endorsement of conservative groups in statements released today.
The Culture of Life Foundation, criticizing the practice of judicial activism which it said had disregarded innate issues of the dignity of life, praised Judge Roberts for his willingness to separate his own personal views from the requirements of law.
Similarly, Gary Bauer, the head of the American Values organization, endorsed the selection of Judge Roberts and called for a civil consideration of his merits during his Senate confirmation hearings.
For more information, see:
Link.
The Culture of Life Foundation, criticizing the practice of judicial activism which it said had disregarded innate issues of the dignity of life, praised Judge Roberts for his willingness to separate his own personal views from the requirements of law.
Similarly, Gary Bauer, the head of the American Values organization, endorsed the selection of Judge Roberts and called for a civil consideration of his merits during his Senate confirmation hearings.
For more information, see:
Link.
Ashes Of James Doohan To Achieve Spaceflight
James Doohan will achieve in his death what only his character, Scotty, of Star Trek, did in life: His ashes will be lofted into outer space aboard a rocket operated by Space Services, Inc.
In this, he follows in the footsteps of the late Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Trek, and 1960's cultural icon, Timothy Leary.
Godspeed, Mr. Doohan. Wherever your remains may be, you will continue to live in our hearts.
Source of information:
Link.
In this, he follows in the footsteps of the late Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Trek, and 1960's cultural icon, Timothy Leary.
Godspeed, Mr. Doohan. Wherever your remains may be, you will continue to live in our hearts.
Source of information:
Link.
British Troops Face Court-Martial For Alleged War Crimes
In an alternative to trial in the International Criminal Court, several members of the British military may face court-martial for allegations of war crimes, which include, in one case, charges of manslaughter levied against seven servicemen, according to a news report.
While it is reassuring that the British legal system monitors the activities of its military, one wonders what the result is to the morale of British forces in the region. Nevertheless, if war crimes were committed, and if an investigation so determines, there should be no reason why justice should not prevail.
Source of information:
Link.
While it is reassuring that the British legal system monitors the activities of its military, one wonders what the result is to the morale of British forces in the region. Nevertheless, if war crimes were committed, and if an investigation so determines, there should be no reason why justice should not prevail.
Source of information:
Link.
Blair Mulls Islam Conference
British Prime Minister Tony Blair has announced that he is considering calling an international conference on Islamic extremism, news sources say.
The Prime Minister apparently desires to address the issue so that groundwork can be laid for international cooperation aimed at preventing acts such as the July 7, 2005 bombings in London.
His desire to resolve matters peacefully is to be commended, but one wonders if talk is sufficient. If an international conference is the only measure resulting from his obvious desire to eliminate terrorism, then it will be of dubious value.
From knowledge and understanding must arise action that will yield concrete effects toward the interests and objectives of the entire world.
Source of information:
Link.
The Prime Minister apparently desires to address the issue so that groundwork can be laid for international cooperation aimed at preventing acts such as the July 7, 2005 bombings in London.
His desire to resolve matters peacefully is to be commended, but one wonders if talk is sufficient. If an international conference is the only measure resulting from his obvious desire to eliminate terrorism, then it will be of dubious value.
From knowledge and understanding must arise action that will yield concrete effects toward the interests and objectives of the entire world.
Source of information:
Link.
States Address Eminent Domain Issues
Several States have decided to address widespread concerns arising from the Supreme Court's recent decision in Kelo vs. City of New London by considering and, in some cases, passing measures designed to protect the rights of property owners.
The Supreme Court's decision in the above case permitted a municipality to determine that the public benefits from transferring private property from its original owners to another warranted the imposition of the doctrine of eminent domain. In essence, the municipality was given the right to force the sale of property from one private owner to another based on considerations of public use.
Critics of the decision have claimed that the decision unfairly widens the ability of public entities to take the private property of ordinary citizens.
According to a recent report, various States have responded by legislative and constitutional means.
See:
Link.
The Supreme Court's decision in the above case permitted a municipality to determine that the public benefits from transferring private property from its original owners to another warranted the imposition of the doctrine of eminent domain. In essence, the municipality was given the right to force the sale of property from one private owner to another based on considerations of public use.
Critics of the decision have claimed that the decision unfairly widens the ability of public entities to take the private property of ordinary citizens.
According to a recent report, various States have responded by legislative and constitutional means.
See:
Link.
U.S. Airlines Rate Only Three Stars
An Internet site ranking airline quality based on a variety of factors has given U.S.-based airlines only three stars out of five.
This should confirm the suspicions of most American air travelers today that service has taken a back seat to price.
Given that economics has squeezed out considerations of passenger comfort, and despite the efforts of many rank-and-file airline staff, perhaps it is a miracle that our airlines don't rank even lower.
See:
Link.
This should confirm the suspicions of most American air travelers today that service has taken a back seat to price.
Given that economics has squeezed out considerations of passenger comfort, and despite the efforts of many rank-and-file airline staff, perhaps it is a miracle that our airlines don't rank even lower.
See:
Link.
"Star Trek"'s Scotty, James Doohan, Dies
Breaking news: James Doohan, who played the heroic Starfleet Engineer, "Scotty", on Star Trek, has died.
Mr. Doohan died at 5:30 a.m. this morning, according to various news reports.
Rest in peace, Mr. Doohan. You were one of a kind.
Sample source: Link.
Mr. Doohan died at 5:30 a.m. this morning, according to various news reports.
Rest in peace, Mr. Doohan. You were one of a kind.
Sample source: Link.
Methane Traces Suggest Possible Life On Mars
Traces of methane gas on Mars detected by planetary scientists present the tantalizing possibility that elementary life may exist below the surface of that most intriguing planet.
According to a recent report, the origins of the methane are unknown and the results of analyses are inconclusive. The methane may result from biological production, or from chemical processes. The report says that it is unlikely that the methane is of ancient origin, since exposure to sunlight would have long since destroyed any such remnants.
Source.
If such life exists, it may be years since it can be accessed using current technology. Since such life would be buried beneath the surface, it would seem that devices would be required to drill deeply into the Martian surface, and space probes available to us today simply do not have this capability.
According to a recent report, the origins of the methane are unknown and the results of analyses are inconclusive. The methane may result from biological production, or from chemical processes. The report says that it is unlikely that the methane is of ancient origin, since exposure to sunlight would have long since destroyed any such remnants.
Source.
If such life exists, it may be years since it can be accessed using current technology. Since such life would be buried beneath the surface, it would seem that devices would be required to drill deeply into the Martian surface, and space probes available to us today simply do not have this capability.
Columnist Notes Boeing's Superlative Internet Service
A new airborne Internet connectivity service, "Connexion by Boeing", will provide airline travelers with unprecedented access to the World Wide Web, and even permit passengers to watch television over the Internet.
"Connexion by Boeing" is provided as an option aboard Boeing's new aircraft but presumably is also available for retrofitting aboard other commercial airliners. One recent columnist who tested a prototype gave it a rave review, and made note of its "Online Television" feature.
See:
Link.
Currently, passengers on aircraft equipped with the service can place VOIP, or "Voice Over Internet Protocol", telephone calls to any destination virtually anywhere in the world.
"Connexion by Boeing" is yet another reason that Boeing is leading the world in commercial aviation.
"Connexion by Boeing" is provided as an option aboard Boeing's new aircraft but presumably is also available for retrofitting aboard other commercial airliners. One recent columnist who tested a prototype gave it a rave review, and made note of its "Online Television" feature.
See:
Link.
Currently, passengers on aircraft equipped with the service can place VOIP, or "Voice Over Internet Protocol", telephone calls to any destination virtually anywhere in the world.
"Connexion by Boeing" is yet another reason that Boeing is leading the world in commercial aviation.
Boeing Secures Air Europa Deal
Boeing received a firm order for 18 of its new-generation 737-900ER's from Air Europa today, according to a news report.
Air Europa, based in Spain, has the right to order up to 16 more of the aircraft, according to the report.
In its announcement of the agreement, Boeing noted the superior performance of the 737-900ER over that of its main competitor, manufactured by Airbus.
This latest order comes in the wake of a large order of 737-900ER's placed by Lion Air and a smaller order of 737-900ER's and 777's placed by TAAG Angola Airlines.
According to the report, the Air Europa order represents a defeat for Airbus in its own backyard.
Source of report:
Link.
Air Europa, based in Spain, has the right to order up to 16 more of the aircraft, according to the report.
In its announcement of the agreement, Boeing noted the superior performance of the 737-900ER over that of its main competitor, manufactured by Airbus.
This latest order comes in the wake of a large order of 737-900ER's placed by Lion Air and a smaller order of 737-900ER's and 777's placed by TAAG Angola Airlines.
According to the report, the Air Europa order represents a defeat for Airbus in its own backyard.
Source of report:
Link.
New Republican Proposal Would Require Illegal Immigrant Return
According to a report in the Arizona Republic published today, Republican lawmakers have proposed legislation that would permit illegal immigrants to work in the United States on condition that they agree to return to their countries of origins.
Source:
Link.
There are two problems with the proposal. The first is the obvious one: How does one secure the agreement of these aliens? The second is more subtle: How does one enforce any such agreement, particularly if the aliens settle in the United States and eventually have children who, by the terms of American law, would automatically be U.S. citizens?
It is possible for Congress to modify the law to provide that children of illegal aliens would not be automatically conferred the status of U.S. citizens. However, some analysts say that this may run into Constitutional objections on the basis of the Fourteenth Amendment.
In view of the magnitude of illegal immigration, let us hope that a solution is found to this most pressing problem.
Source:
Link.
There are two problems with the proposal. The first is the obvious one: How does one secure the agreement of these aliens? The second is more subtle: How does one enforce any such agreement, particularly if the aliens settle in the United States and eventually have children who, by the terms of American law, would automatically be U.S. citizens?
It is possible for Congress to modify the law to provide that children of illegal aliens would not be automatically conferred the status of U.S. citizens. However, some analysts say that this may run into Constitutional objections on the basis of the Fourteenth Amendment.
In view of the magnitude of illegal immigration, let us hope that a solution is found to this most pressing problem.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Hon. John Roberts Nominated For Supreme Court
The Hon. John Roberts has been nominated by the President to fill the vacancy to be created by the retirement of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.
Judge Roberts is a solid conservative, but for this reason, some liberals are girding for battle.
Nevertheless, he is widely seen as a safe choice.
Judge Roberts is a solid conservative, but for this reason, some liberals are girding for battle.
Nevertheless, he is widely seen as a safe choice.
Senator Clinton Versus A Video Game
According to The New York Times, Sen. Hillary Clinton has decided to call for a probe of unauthorized modifications to a new video game:
(Excerpt)
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has attacked violent video games as ''a silent epidemic'' among children, said she wants a federal investigation into one of the most popular, ''Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.''
Clinton, D-N.Y., is asking the Federal Trade Commission to probe how users of the game can access ''graphic pornographic and violent content'' for the game from the Internet.
(End of Excerpt)
So, whatever happened to the Democratic Senator known as Hillary Clinton?
It seems to me that this is a Republican issue, is it not?
(Excerpt)
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has attacked violent video games as ''a silent epidemic'' among children, said she wants a federal investigation into one of the most popular, ''Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.''
Clinton, D-N.Y., is asking the Federal Trade Commission to probe how users of the game can access ''graphic pornographic and violent content'' for the game from the Internet.
(End of Excerpt)
So, whatever happened to the Democratic Senator known as Hillary Clinton?
It seems to me that this is a Republican issue, is it not?
Should Karl Rove Be Fired?
According to Mr. Dick Morris, former friend and advisor to the Clintons, Karl Rove should NOT be fired.
Here is his reasoning:
(Excerpt)
Karl Rove did nothing wrong. The statute he allegedly violated has a number of very specific triggers. The person who reveals the identity of a covert CIA operative has to intend to uncover her identity, know she is a covert operative and know that he is blowing her cover.
The law is designed to stop the likes of Philip Agee, whose 1975 book Inside the Company revealed secret CIA information to sell books. Rove’s actions are a far stretch from those the statute was designed to cover.
(End of Excerpt)
Here are the questions the public should be asking:
1. Was the law broken?
2. Was there damage to national interests because of what Mr. Rove allegedly did?It appears that the answer to both is in the negative.
Hence, Morris is right: Rove should not be fired. He has done nothing wrong.
Source: Link.
Here is his reasoning:
(Excerpt)
Karl Rove did nothing wrong. The statute he allegedly violated has a number of very specific triggers. The person who reveals the identity of a covert CIA operative has to intend to uncover her identity, know she is a covert operative and know that he is blowing her cover.
The law is designed to stop the likes of Philip Agee, whose 1975 book Inside the Company revealed secret CIA information to sell books. Rove’s actions are a far stretch from those the statute was designed to cover.
(End of Excerpt)
Here are the questions the public should be asking:
1. Was the law broken?
2. Was there damage to national interests because of what Mr. Rove allegedly did?It appears that the answer to both is in the negative.
Hence, Morris is right: Rove should not be fired. He has done nothing wrong.
Source: Link.
Medical Marijuana: A Tough Choice
Now, unless you've been tokin' up something fierce lately, you've heard the news: The Supreme Court has decided that medical marijuana can be a no-no under federal law, regardless of what the States have to say about it.
As a loyal Republican, I can only say: Bravo. But at the same time, I ask folks to consider whether the States are being given their due.
States are often seen as "laboratories" for particular approaches toward the law. I think that the federal interest in preventing drug abuse was a major factor in allow federal supremacy over such laws. But does this take into account the rights of each State to determine for itself whether medical uses of marijuana are legitimate?
I question whether, in the so-called "war against terror", we are risking overstepping the bounds of federal jurisdiction. The Court doesn't think so. But shouldn't Congress also have a say?If Congress decides to enact a law permitting States to determine this issue, shouldn't it be permitted to do so? Indeed, I think it has the right, and perhaps the obligation, to consider doing so.
A federal state, after all, does not mean a unitary one.
As a loyal Republican, I can only say: Bravo. But at the same time, I ask folks to consider whether the States are being given their due.
States are often seen as "laboratories" for particular approaches toward the law. I think that the federal interest in preventing drug abuse was a major factor in allow federal supremacy over such laws. But does this take into account the rights of each State to determine for itself whether medical uses of marijuana are legitimate?
I question whether, in the so-called "war against terror", we are risking overstepping the bounds of federal jurisdiction. The Court doesn't think so. But shouldn't Congress also have a say?If Congress decides to enact a law permitting States to determine this issue, shouldn't it be permitted to do so? Indeed, I think it has the right, and perhaps the obligation, to consider doing so.
A federal state, after all, does not mean a unitary one.
Reality Bites
So, when will reality shows, show the reality of sex?Apparently, pretty darned soon.
(Excerpt)
A new documentary television series "Hooking Up" follows 11 New York women navigating the pitfalls of online dating in a show that one reviewer calls "hard-core voyeurism.
"The ABC News show, a cross between the hit comedy "Sex and the City" and a reality TV show, shines a light on the increasingly popular American pastime and pulls no punches.
(End of Excerpt)
Do my eyes deceive me? A television network? Indulging in ... VOYEURISM? :MOCK HORROR:
What's next? A science fiction show based on voyeurism? A new Star Trek show, perhaps?
My opinion? Let them do their worst. After all, in an age where wardrobes malfunction during sporting events, can Americans any longer be shocked?
Next thing you'll know, they'll be telling us that sex sells.
Where is the FCC when you actually need them?
Source: Nothing to see here, folks.
(Excerpt)
A new documentary television series "Hooking Up" follows 11 New York women navigating the pitfalls of online dating in a show that one reviewer calls "hard-core voyeurism.
"The ABC News show, a cross between the hit comedy "Sex and the City" and a reality TV show, shines a light on the increasingly popular American pastime and pulls no punches.
(End of Excerpt)
Do my eyes deceive me? A television network? Indulging in ... VOYEURISM? :MOCK HORROR:
What's next? A science fiction show based on voyeurism? A new Star Trek show, perhaps?
My opinion? Let them do their worst. After all, in an age where wardrobes malfunction during sporting events, can Americans any longer be shocked?
Next thing you'll know, they'll be telling us that sex sells.
Where is the FCC when you actually need them?
Source: Nothing to see here, folks.
Superbomb!
A headline like the one above, you don't see every day....All right, so maybe I'm no critic.
And neither is the Pentagon, when it comes to bunker busters. Not when this new one can blast its way ten times deeper than older models.
(Excerpt)
Lockheed Martin hopes the supercavitating bombs will reach 10 times the depth of the current U.S. Air Force record holder, the huge BLU-113 bunker buster that can break through nearly 25 feet (7 meters) of concrete or nearly 100 feet (30 meters) of earth.
(End of Excerpt)
Supercavitating bombs. Now, that's high tech. Maybe they should call these things "land torpedoes".
Can subterranean submarines be far behind?
See: Link.
And neither is the Pentagon, when it comes to bunker busters. Not when this new one can blast its way ten times deeper than older models.
(Excerpt)
Lockheed Martin hopes the supercavitating bombs will reach 10 times the depth of the current U.S. Air Force record holder, the huge BLU-113 bunker buster that can break through nearly 25 feet (7 meters) of concrete or nearly 100 feet (30 meters) of earth.
(End of Excerpt)
Supercavitating bombs. Now, that's high tech. Maybe they should call these things "land torpedoes".
Can subterranean submarines be far behind?
See: Link.
The Return Of H. G. Wells
Was H. G. Wells a man ahead of his time?
Two scientists writing in New Scientist magazine might say so. Time travel isn't just for science fiction anymore. Pretty soon, it might be fact. Or, at least, it might not be impossible.
You see, the classic conundrum barring the existence of time travel is well-known to fans of Wells and countless other sci-fi authors. Blame your grandparents, because if you went back in time and prevented them from having your mom and/or dad, they'd have something to say about it. To be precise, doing so would prevent your own existence, which would prevent you from going back. Which makes time travel impossible.
Right?
Apparently not.
The upshot is that if you go back and did something untoward, like interrupting your granny right before she beds your grandad, you'd cause all the things that would happen to happen only if they were consistent with what happened afterward.
And no, I'm not sure how this works.
But apparently the smart guys referenced here do.
It's times like these you really wished you paid attention during advanced calculus. Although, if you're right, maybe you'll be able to....
Two scientists writing in New Scientist magazine might say so. Time travel isn't just for science fiction anymore. Pretty soon, it might be fact. Or, at least, it might not be impossible.
You see, the classic conundrum barring the existence of time travel is well-known to fans of Wells and countless other sci-fi authors. Blame your grandparents, because if you went back in time and prevented them from having your mom and/or dad, they'd have something to say about it. To be precise, doing so would prevent your own existence, which would prevent you from going back. Which makes time travel impossible.
Right?
Apparently not.
The upshot is that if you go back and did something untoward, like interrupting your granny right before she beds your grandad, you'd cause all the things that would happen to happen only if they were consistent with what happened afterward.
And no, I'm not sure how this works.
But apparently the smart guys referenced here do.
It's times like these you really wished you paid attention during advanced calculus. Although, if you're right, maybe you'll be able to....
Is The American Library Association Being Hypocritical?
The Children's Internet Protection Act ("CIPA") is a federal statute that requires public libraries to install Internet filters on computers as a pre-condition to funding. The Supreme Court has upheld CIPA despite the challenges of the American Library Association ("ALA"). The ALA's challenge to CIPA was as follows:
(Excerpt)
-local communities should decide Internet policies rather than be forced to accept a one-size federal solution;
-filters are not fool-proof;
and
-poor communities are affected disproportionately when libraries must choose between federal technology funding and censorship.
(End of Excerpt)
However, elsewhere, the ALA has taken the position that all children must be given full access to the same materials available to other users, as a "philosophical" matter.
Query: Why should localities be permitted control in this specific case, when the ALA has seemingly no interest in permitting localities to control access in others?
One should note that the challenge stated above is a distinct contradiction to the ALA's general philosophy. If the ALA truly desires local control, then local governments should also be in control of children's access to all library materials, and not just the Internet. Further, if the federal government should not impose its views on public libraries, notwithstanding the desires of localities, then neither should the ALA impose its own, one-size-fits-all beliefs regarding any so-called "right" of children to access to potentially non-age-appropriate materials. But the latter is precisely what the ALA generally sees fit to do.
I believe that the ALA has an agenda: The promotion of all information to all users regardless of age. This agenda, I would submit, colors its perceptions and in certain cases exposes its hypocrisy in regard to the right or ability of localities to control what public libraries present to children.
Source of Excerpt: Link.
(Excerpt)
-local communities should decide Internet policies rather than be forced to accept a one-size federal solution;
-filters are not fool-proof;
and
-poor communities are affected disproportionately when libraries must choose between federal technology funding and censorship.
(End of Excerpt)
However, elsewhere, the ALA has taken the position that all children must be given full access to the same materials available to other users, as a "philosophical" matter.
Query: Why should localities be permitted control in this specific case, when the ALA has seemingly no interest in permitting localities to control access in others?
One should note that the challenge stated above is a distinct contradiction to the ALA's general philosophy. If the ALA truly desires local control, then local governments should also be in control of children's access to all library materials, and not just the Internet. Further, if the federal government should not impose its views on public libraries, notwithstanding the desires of localities, then neither should the ALA impose its own, one-size-fits-all beliefs regarding any so-called "right" of children to access to potentially non-age-appropriate materials. But the latter is precisely what the ALA generally sees fit to do.
I believe that the ALA has an agenda: The promotion of all information to all users regardless of age. This agenda, I would submit, colors its perceptions and in certain cases exposes its hypocrisy in regard to the right or ability of localities to control what public libraries present to children.
Source of Excerpt: Link.
Astronomers Puzzled By Trinary System
In a stellar system, far, far away....Planets orbiting a single star have been detected for years. But a planet orbiting a tri-stellar system is a rarity, and this one is rarer still because, by rights, it should not exist.
(Excerpt)
Sunsets on this faraway planet would be like nothing we have ever seen. "With three suns, the sky view must be out of this world," said Maciej Konacki, from the California Institute of Technology, US, who identified the planet. However, it is not the thought of ethereal sunsets that is upsetting some scientists: it is the planet's location combined with the existence of the other two suns.
(End of Excerpt)
The more we learn about the universe, the more we realize that it is stranger than we imagined. All the more reason for humanity to go forth and explore the farthest reaches of outer space.
Quoth the Bard: Our reach must exceed our grasp, or what else is Heaven for?
Source of excerpt: Link.
(Excerpt)
Sunsets on this faraway planet would be like nothing we have ever seen. "With three suns, the sky view must be out of this world," said Maciej Konacki, from the California Institute of Technology, US, who identified the planet. However, it is not the thought of ethereal sunsets that is upsetting some scientists: it is the planet's location combined with the existence of the other two suns.
(End of Excerpt)
The more we learn about the universe, the more we realize that it is stranger than we imagined. All the more reason for humanity to go forth and explore the farthest reaches of outer space.
Quoth the Bard: Our reach must exceed our grasp, or what else is Heaven for?
Source of excerpt: Link.
International Space Station Astronauts To Travel Briefly In Soyuz
MSNBC.com reports that the crew of the International Space Station is due to enter its Soyuz "lifeboat" on a preplanned mission to change its docking position. While the presence of both crew members is not needed for the mission, they are required to board the craft to guard against the possibility that the Soyuz may be unable to to re-dock with the station after completing the maneuver.
n such an contingency, the crew would be safely aboard the Soyuz which would presumably return to Earth.
Source: Link.
n such an contingency, the crew would be safely aboard the Soyuz which would presumably return to Earth.
Source: Link.
"Deep Impact" May Get Another Job
According to MSNBC.com, the Deep Impact NASA space probe that successfully launched an impactor at Comet Tempel 1 earlier this month, causing a cosmic collision that was photographed by scientists worldwide, may be given another chance to contribute to mankind's knowledge of cometary bodies.
A nominal sum has been allocated by NASA toward the goal of maneuvering the spacecraft close to an object dubbed "85P/Boethin", a comet which is expected to make two close encounters with Earth in the first half of the 21st Century. Full funding for this extended mission has not yet been granted.
Deep Impact survived its encounter with Tempel 1 completely undamaged and is in a position to be put in safe mode for its possible future date with Boethin.
Source: Link.
A nominal sum has been allocated by NASA toward the goal of maneuvering the spacecraft close to an object dubbed "85P/Boethin", a comet which is expected to make two close encounters with Earth in the first half of the 21st Century. Full funding for this extended mission has not yet been granted.
Deep Impact survived its encounter with Tempel 1 completely undamaged and is in a position to be put in safe mode for its possible future date with Boethin.
Source: Link.
Boeing Wins $3.9 Billion and $650 Million Orders; Airbus Order To Be Re-Examined
According to news sources, Boeing will launch its new 737-900ER with an order from Lion Air of Indonesia for up to 60 planes, worth up to $3.9 billion. The order included a firm commitment for 30 of the aircraft with options for 30 more. Boeing also received a $650 million order from TAAG Angola Airlines, for four 737-700's and two 777-200ER's. The 737-900 carries up to 215 passengers in a one-class configuration -- more than two dozen more passengers than previous models. The aircraft can fly longer distances than prior 737's, thanks to technological improvements such as blended winglets.
By contrast, Airbus, Boeing's main competitor, received a setback yesterday when a 43-plane agreement worth about $2 billion was ordered re-examined by India's Aviation Ministry. The order was previously approved by Indian Airlines, but reportedly is being questioned because the Ministry does not believe that a sufficient showing was made that the best prices were negotiated.
Sources consulted:
Associated Press; bizjournal.com
By contrast, Airbus, Boeing's main competitor, received a setback yesterday when a 43-plane agreement worth about $2 billion was ordered re-examined by India's Aviation Ministry. The order was previously approved by Indian Airlines, but reportedly is being questioned because the Ministry does not believe that a sufficient showing was made that the best prices were negotiated.
Sources consulted:
Associated Press; bizjournal.com
Lab-Grown "Biological Computer" Controls Aircraft Simulator
In October, 2004, the University of Florida issued a press release announcing that in a laboratory test, a neural network consisting of elements of rat brains was found to be capable of controlling a flight simulator. The experiment may herald the future development of biological computers. There are various uses for laboratory-grown living computers, according to a scientist involved in neural network experimentation.
(Excerpt)
These living neural networks are being used to pursue a variety of engineering and neurobiology research goals, said Steven Potter, an assistant professor in the Georgia Tech/Emory Department of Biomedical Engineering who uses cultured brain cells to study learning and memory. DeMarse was a postdoctoral researcher in Potter’s laboratory at Georgia Tech before he arrived at UF.
(End of Excerpt)
Growing brains in laboratories used to be science fiction.
Not anymore.
See: Link.
And, according to the Los Angeles Times, the Pentagon is seeking the use of neural networks for the new F-22 Raptor.
Heady times, indeed.
(Excerpt)
These living neural networks are being used to pursue a variety of engineering and neurobiology research goals, said Steven Potter, an assistant professor in the Georgia Tech/Emory Department of Biomedical Engineering who uses cultured brain cells to study learning and memory. DeMarse was a postdoctoral researcher in Potter’s laboratory at Georgia Tech before he arrived at UF.
(End of Excerpt)
Growing brains in laboratories used to be science fiction.
Not anymore.
See: Link.
And, according to the Los Angeles Times, the Pentagon is seeking the use of neural networks for the new F-22 Raptor.
Heady times, indeed.
A Chariot Of Peace
Apollo. Starbuck. Those are the callsigns of by-now famous characters in the re-imagined version of Battlestar Galactica. But today, I speak not of battles in the stars, but of peace.
Apollo was also the name of one of America's most successful national endeavors. On Apollo rode America's missions to the Moon and back. And Apollo 13 is also known for the valor of our astronauts, who showed their mettle in a time of peril.
And finally, Apollo is known for a mission of peace between rival superpowers, each with enough firepower to destroy the world many times over.
(Excerpt)
Looking back at the Apollo-Soyuz mission, Brand called the spaceflight an interesting piece of the Cold War puzzle.
(End of Excerpt)
History records that 30 years ago, the world saw two hands reach out across space, in orbit, to seal a friendship between members of two rival states -- the United States, and the Soviet Union.
Talk of who would bury the other seemed to make little sense, when the Earth itself was hundreds of miles below. All that counted then was that astronaut and cosmonaut were united in a task to move beyond the conflicts of their respective countries, so far, far down below.
I remember those days, of peace and friendship. Such fine sentiments.
But no sooner is one giant slain, than another rises to take its place.
It is Hydra that we face, and today we fight again.
Was it that long ago, after all, when friendship marked the starry sky?
Source: Link.
Apollo was also the name of one of America's most successful national endeavors. On Apollo rode America's missions to the Moon and back. And Apollo 13 is also known for the valor of our astronauts, who showed their mettle in a time of peril.
And finally, Apollo is known for a mission of peace between rival superpowers, each with enough firepower to destroy the world many times over.
(Excerpt)
Looking back at the Apollo-Soyuz mission, Brand called the spaceflight an interesting piece of the Cold War puzzle.
(End of Excerpt)
History records that 30 years ago, the world saw two hands reach out across space, in orbit, to seal a friendship between members of two rival states -- the United States, and the Soviet Union.
Talk of who would bury the other seemed to make little sense, when the Earth itself was hundreds of miles below. All that counted then was that astronaut and cosmonaut were united in a task to move beyond the conflicts of their respective countries, so far, far down below.
I remember those days, of peace and friendship. Such fine sentiments.
But no sooner is one giant slain, than another rises to take its place.
It is Hydra that we face, and today we fight again.
Was it that long ago, after all, when friendship marked the starry sky?
Source: Link.
Beyond Human, And Yet Human Still
At a convention on subjects near and dear to the hearts of futurists, a British cosmologist marveled at the uniqueness of our times:
(Excerpt)
The cosmologist said that in the 21st Century science had changed the world faster than ever before and in many new ways. "Our century is very, very special," said Professor Rees. "It is the first where humans can change themselves."
(End of Excerpt)
Of course, as with most things, it's a statement that is not beyond cavil.
Yes, it is true that our century will see the beginnings of genetically engineered humans, and that the stars will eventually be our domain, if they do not fall upon us first.
But is it true that humanity will evolve to an extent beyond what we can know now?
In a trivial sense, the answer to this question is also, Of course. It's only a matter of time, perhaps not even millennia, when humanity will master the technologies necessary to live as differently as we can imagine.
And yet in a fundamental sense, the human drive will always be there. Our future selves will look upon us with pity, and yet they will have stood on the shoulders of giants, as Newton did (incidentally, in his own sarcastic way disavowing Leibniz, who happened to be diminutive). For we are the past of our own future.
Posterity is a word we mention all too rarely now. But posterity is the inevitable result of our actions and inactions.
We strive to go beyond humanity. And perhaps that is what makes us all the more so.
Source of excerpt:Link.
(Excerpt)
The cosmologist said that in the 21st Century science had changed the world faster than ever before and in many new ways. "Our century is very, very special," said Professor Rees. "It is the first where humans can change themselves."
(End of Excerpt)
Of course, as with most things, it's a statement that is not beyond cavil.
Yes, it is true that our century will see the beginnings of genetically engineered humans, and that the stars will eventually be our domain, if they do not fall upon us first.
But is it true that humanity will evolve to an extent beyond what we can know now?
In a trivial sense, the answer to this question is also, Of course. It's only a matter of time, perhaps not even millennia, when humanity will master the technologies necessary to live as differently as we can imagine.
And yet in a fundamental sense, the human drive will always be there. Our future selves will look upon us with pity, and yet they will have stood on the shoulders of giants, as Newton did (incidentally, in his own sarcastic way disavowing Leibniz, who happened to be diminutive). For we are the past of our own future.
Posterity is a word we mention all too rarely now. But posterity is the inevitable result of our actions and inactions.
We strive to go beyond humanity. And perhaps that is what makes us all the more so.
Source of excerpt:Link.
The Oceans Within
I drove along the Pacific Highway today. I pulled over. I walked the beach.
The vastness of the ocean was less impressive than my sudden realization that we see nothing of what is within.
Beneath the waving waters is the world of aquatic beings. Dolphins. Whales. Fishes of all kinds.
Each with its own consciousness. Semi-consciousness. Or -- thankfully -- the halflight of a being barely known, pursuing the seminal needs of existence.
Freud considered the subconscious an oceanic expanse below our living threshold, controlling our emotions, our very soul.
Once in while, a rupture breaks through, and the placid expanse of the sea is disturbed. Love, hate, the classic affects of life reach up beyond their domain, and seize us by the throat, asking -- nay, demanding -- our attention.
But as we go about our lives, driving toward points unknown, the oceans churn ceaselessly below.
Who are we who sail these seas?
Nothing, but human.
The vastness of the ocean was less impressive than my sudden realization that we see nothing of what is within.
Beneath the waving waters is the world of aquatic beings. Dolphins. Whales. Fishes of all kinds.
Each with its own consciousness. Semi-consciousness. Or -- thankfully -- the halflight of a being barely known, pursuing the seminal needs of existence.
Freud considered the subconscious an oceanic expanse below our living threshold, controlling our emotions, our very soul.
Once in while, a rupture breaks through, and the placid expanse of the sea is disturbed. Love, hate, the classic affects of life reach up beyond their domain, and seize us by the throat, asking -- nay, demanding -- our attention.
But as we go about our lives, driving toward points unknown, the oceans churn ceaselessly below.
Who are we who sail these seas?
Nothing, but human.
La Mancha, Revisited
I don't know about you, but to me, the world isn't all about power. It isn't about how much power we have, how we can push folks around, or how many people we can intimidate. It isn't particularly about how much money you can make, or how popular you among people who may not know who you really are.
It's not about pursuing the futile. It's not about obtaining the unobtainable. The things that concern individuals, also concern nations.
The pageant of nations is the history of the world, and vice versa. Those who write history cast nations in the role of heroes and villains.
And when one is a hero, the greatest temptation is to commit the sin of pride, to fall, and then to take the world down with you.
Mighty Casey did finally strike out at bat.
And so, when our leader told us that we should be humble, I knew he couldn't be. Because it's difficult to be humble, when humility is seen as a sign of weakness.
Can we afford to lose a champion, through whatever means or happenstance chances our way?It takes vision to lead. When we fail to lead, the world loses a great champion. When the world fails to be inspired, we lose a great strength.
It takes more than a village to raise the children of our dreams.
It takes each of us.
For in the end, each of us are leaders we seek. For better or for worse.
It's not about pursuing the futile. It's not about obtaining the unobtainable. The things that concern individuals, also concern nations.
The pageant of nations is the history of the world, and vice versa. Those who write history cast nations in the role of heroes and villains.
And when one is a hero, the greatest temptation is to commit the sin of pride, to fall, and then to take the world down with you.
Mighty Casey did finally strike out at bat.
And so, when our leader told us that we should be humble, I knew he couldn't be. Because it's difficult to be humble, when humility is seen as a sign of weakness.
Can we afford to lose a champion, through whatever means or happenstance chances our way?It takes vision to lead. When we fail to lead, the world loses a great champion. When the world fails to be inspired, we lose a great strength.
It takes more than a village to raise the children of our dreams.
It takes each of us.
For in the end, each of us are leaders we seek. For better or for worse.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)