The problem with (best part of?) reading science news is how much of it would make awesomely terrible (terribly awesome?) book plots. For example: The First Sea MonsterTitle needs some work, but set that baby loose on an unsuspecting* seaside town and/or freighter filled with illicit cargo and dangerous characters and let the magic** begin! … Read more
In what is clearly the greatest discovery of the decade, scientists have recently identified the world’s earliest known cheese-making equipment. Apparently, it existed 7,500 years ago and would have tasted something like mozzarella. No word yet on whether primitive deep fryers or marinara sauce were found in the vicinity.
Is there nothing left to believe in? The bad news: A statue of Buddha, alleged to have carved out of a meteorite in the 11th century and looted from Tibet by a Nazi expedition in the thirties is a 20th century counterfeit, was probably never looted by anyone. The good news: The meteorite part is … Read more
A couple of the SOBs I have to work with: What? It’s Monday.
Science Tip of the Day: When applied to dry ice, 70% ethanol does not remain liquid. I does, however, provide you with the means to make the World’s Nastiest Snowball. Science: Providing you with information you can use, but probably shouldn’t.
I’m back!* Yes, having survived my sojourn to the wilds of the Northeast, during which I had to contend with my inadequacies at a) candlepin bowling, b) pool and c) explaining what it is I do for a living without giving away the fact that I don’t entirely understand it myself, I have returned home … Read more
Part 1: Perform groundbreaking research in a vital but technically complex field. Part 2: Compose a press release and distribute it to the media. Part 3: Observe as said media declares your discovery the “cure for the common cold.” Part 4: Drink. [Full story here.]
If there’s one thing you learn in the course of a career in science, it’s the importance of labeling things clearly: Key line from the description: “These comfy t-shirts are a great way to reward staff and have a little fun in the lab.” On the plus side, I guess it’s better than just sticking … Read more
No shoes this week, because I’m sneaking out early to head to the foothills to go drink wine with a bunch of people dressed like pirates* who may or may not be wearing tasteful boots.** Instead, I give you a Tour Of Things On The Internet. Are these people serious? Because, on the one hand, … Read more
Just when you thought it was safe to come out of the water. Key chilling quote: “We now think there are dozens of species that do it. Squid are used to gliding in the water, so the same physiology probably allows them to maneuver and glide in the air. When you look at some of … Read more