Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Annular Solar Eclipse over New Mexico


What is this person doing? In 2012 an annular eclipse of the Sun was visible over a narrow path that crossed the northern Pacific Ocean and several western US states. In an annular solar eclipse, the Moon is too far from the Earth to block out the entire Sun, leaving the Sun peeking out over the Moon's disk in a ring of fire. To capture this unusual solar event, an industrious photographer drove from Arizona to New Mexico to find just the right vista. After setting up and just as the eclipsed Sun was setting over a ridge about 0.5 kilometers away, a person unknowingly walked right into the shot. Although grateful for the unexpected human element, the photographer never learned the identity of the silhouetted interloper. It appears likely, though, that the person is holding a circular device that would enable them to get their own view of the eclipse. The shot was taken at sunset on 2012 May 20 at 7:36 pm local time from a park near Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. Tomorrow another annular solar eclipse will become visible, this time along a path crossing Africa and Madagascar. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bC06Ln

NPR News: Obama at Lake Tahoe Praises Conservation Efforts

Obama at Lake Tahoe Praises Conservation Efforts
The president warns that climate change can undermine decades-long conservation efforts. He spoke at an annual summit that brings people together to discuss how to keep Lake Tahoe blue.

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Watch Live as NASA Astronaut, Two Crewmates Return to Earth

Three International Space Station crew members are scheduled to return to Earth on Tuesday, Sept. 6. NASA Television will provide coverage of their departure from the orbital outpost and return home, beginning at 9 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Sept. 6.

August 31, 2016
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NASA Extends Contract for Hubble Space Telescope Mission Operations

NASA has awarded a contract extension to Lockheed Martin Space Systems Corporation (LMSSC) of Greenbelt, Maryland, to continue maintaining the health and safety of the agency’s Hubble Space Telescope observatory through the next phase of its science mission.

August 31, 2016
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NPR News: Don't Be A Slowpoke: Why Left Lane Driving Causes Traffic

Don't Be A Slowpoke: Why Left Lane Driving Causes Traffic
If you've ever yelled at a slowpoke blocking your way on the left lane of a crowded highway, your anger is now justified.

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NPR News: Western States Face Challenges Cleaning Up After Coal Mining

Western States Face Challenges Cleaning Up After Coal Mining
Coal companies in the West have mined an area the size of New York City — more than 400 square miles. Now they have to clean it up, and it's given rise to a whole new reclamation economy.

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NPR News: Minnesota Cracks Down On Neonic Pesticides, Promising Aid To Bees

Minnesota Cracks Down On Neonic Pesticides, Promising Aid To Bees
Minnesota's governor has ordered new restrictions on the use of neonicotinoid pesticides, which have been blamed for killing bees. Many details of the plan, however, remain to be worked out.

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NPR News: Test Of Experimental Alzheimer's Drug Finds Progress Against Brain Plaques

Test Of Experimental Alzheimer's Drug Finds Progress Against Brain Plaques
Researchers have failed repeatedly in their efforts to slow or halt Alzheimer's disease. But there are hints that a new experimental drug can do what previous drugs could not.

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NPR News: Test Of Experimental Alzheimer's Drug Finds Progress Against Brain Plaques

Test Of Experimental Alzheimer's Drug Finds Progress Against Brain Plaques
Researchers have failed repeatedly in their efforts to slow or halt Alzheimer's disease. But there are hints that a new experimental drug can do what previous drugs could not.

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NPR News: How An Edible Battery Could Power Medical Robots You Swallow

How An Edible Battery Could Power Medical Robots You Swallow
Tiny devices sent into the human body for diagnosing and treating diseases run on batteries that may contain toxic materials. Researchers have come up with a safer battery made of natural pigments.

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NPR News: WATCH: International Space Station Flies Over 3 Hurricanes

WATCH: International Space Station Flies Over 3 Hurricanes
Two hurricanes in the Pacific — Lester and Madeline — are threatening Hawaii. Meanwhile, Gaston is crossing the open Atlantic. The space station got a good view of all three of them on Tuesday.

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NPR News: With Water In Short Supply, California Ranchers Grow Their Feed Indoors

With Water In Short Supply, California Ranchers Grow Their Feed Indoors
The extended drought in California has farmers looking for ways to use less water. Among them, growing feed indoors using hydroponics. The new diet is making some Central Valley sheep very happy.

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NPR News: Banned From National Forest, For-Profit Mushroom Pickers Go Underground

Banned From National Forest, For-Profit Mushroom Pickers Go Underground
Last year's forest fires have produced a bumper crop of coveted morel mushrooms in Montana's northwestern forests. But the Forest Service isn't issuing commercial licenses in some prime picking spots.

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Tuesday, August 30, 2016

NPR News: U.N. Health Officials Warn Gonorrhea Is Becoming Untreatable

U.N. Health Officials Warn Gonorrhea Is Becoming Untreatable
The World Health Organization released new treatment guidelines that acknowledge an entire class of antibiotics is now all but useless against the sexually transmitted disease.

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NPR News: Their Masters' Voices: Dogs Understand Tone And Meaning Of Words

Their Masters' Voices: Dogs Understand Tone And Meaning Of Words
When humans talk to dogs, the canine brains seem to separate the meaning of the words from the intonation used, and to analyze each aspect independently.

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NPR News: Their Masters' Voices: Dogs Understand Tone And Meaning Of Words

Their Masters' Voices: Dogs Understand Tone And Meaning Of Words
When humans talk to dogs, the canine brains seem to separate the meaning of the words from the intonation used, and to analyze each aspect independently.

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NPR News: Scientists Looking For Alien Life Investigate 'Interesting' Signal From Space

Scientists Looking For Alien Life Investigate 'Interesting' Signal From Space
Russian astronomers detected an unusual radio signal last year. The SETI Institute says its too soon to say if the signal came from intelligent lifeforms — but they're checking it out.

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8/30 Board Pictures






NPR News: Baby Simulator Doesn't Deter Teenage Pregnancies, Study Indicates

Baby Simulator Doesn't Deter Teenage Pregnancies, Study Indicates
A study in The Lancet medical journal shows the prevention program didn't appear to have long-term effects on reducing risks of teenage pregnancy. Renee Montagne talks to lead author Sally Brinkman.

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NPR News: Baby Simulator Doesn't Deter Teenage Pregnancies, Study Indicates

Baby Simulator Doesn't Deter Teenage Pregnancies, Study Indicates
A study in The Lancet medical journal shows the prevention program didn't appear to have long-term effects on reducing risks of teenage pregnancy. Renee Montagne talks to lead author Sally Brinkman.

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NPR News: Researchers Test The Effects Of Background Music On People

Researchers Test The Effects Of Background Music On People
Despite being aware that the background music on a documentary about sharks was manipulating them, viewers found they were unable to keep the music from producing a sense of upliftment or of menace.

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NPR News: Researchers Test The Effects Of Background Music On People

Researchers Test The Effects Of Background Music On People
Despite being aware that the background music on a documentary about sharks was manipulating them, viewers found they were unable to keep the music from producing a sense of upliftment or of menace.

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NPR News: Surfers And Scientists Team Up To Create The 'Perfect Wave'

Surfers And Scientists Team Up To Create The 'Perfect Wave'
Surfers once deemed man-made waves weak and mushy compared to the best that break along the coast. Then engineers and an 11-time world champion surfer showed just how good an artificial wave can be.

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Monday, August 29, 2016

Young Suns of NGC 7129


Young suns still lie within dusty NGC 7129, some 3,000 light-years away toward the royal constellation Cepheus. While these stars are at a relatively tender age, only a few million years old, it is likely that our own Sun formed in a similar stellar nursery some five billion years ago. Most noticeable in the sharp image are the lovely bluish dust clouds that reflect the youthful starlight. But the compact, deep red crescent shapes are also markers of energetic, young stellar objects. Known as Herbig-Haro objects, their shape and color is characteristic of glowing hydrogen gas shocked by jets streaming away from newborn stars. Paler, extended filaments of reddish emission mingling with the bluish clouds are caused by dust grains effectively converting the invisible ultraviolet starlight to visible red light through photoluminesence. Ultimately the natal gas and dust in the region will be dispersed, the stars drifting apart as the loose cluster orbits the center of the Galaxy. The processing of this remarkable composite image has revealed the faint red strands of emission at the upper right. They are recently recognized as a likely supernova remnant and are currently being analyzed by Bo Reipurth (Univ. Hawaii) who obtained the image data at the Subaru telescope. At the estimated distance of NGC 7129, this telescopic view spans over 40 light-years. via NASA http://ift.tt/2buaoQC

NPR News: Your Gut's Gone Viral, And That Might Be Good For Your Health

Your Gut's Gone Viral, And That Might Be Good For Your Health
Think of it as a gift within a gift. Some beneficial gut bacteria contain viruses called "bacteriophages." And some of these phages now have been associated with good intestinal health in humans.

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NPR News: Your Gut's Gone Viral, And That Might Be Good For Your Health

Your Gut's Gone Viral, And That Might Be Good For Your Health
Think of it as a gift within a gift. Some beneficial gut bacteria contain viruses called "bacteriophages." And some of these phages now have been associated with good intestinal health in humans.

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NPR News: Scientists Divided Over How Lucy Died

Scientists Divided Over How Lucy Died
A new study suggests the 3.2-million-year-old hominin died when she fell from a tree and fractured her bones. But other paleoanthropologists say the breaks happened after she died.

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NPR News: Scientists Divided Over How Lucy Died

Scientists Divided Over How Lucy Died
A new study suggests the 3.2-million-year-old hominin died when she fell from a tree and fractured her bones. But other paleoanthropologists say the breaks happened after she died.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 05:17PM, until August 29, 2016 at 05:20PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 208 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NASA Holds Final Sample Return Robot Competition

After five years of competition by more than 40 different teams from around the globe, NASA’s Sample Return Robot Challenge has reached its final stage. The top seven teams will compete for the $1.36 million prize purse on the campus of Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Worcester, Massachusetts, Sept. 4-6.

August 29, 2016
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NPR News: NASA Completes Year-Long Mars Simulation In Hawaii

NASA Completes Year-Long Mars Simulation In Hawaii
NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with Carmel Johnston, the mission commander of the Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation crew, about what it was like to complete a year-long simulation of Mars.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 03:37PM, until August 29, 2016 at 03:48PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 621 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: 323 Reindeer Killed In Lightning Storm In Norway

323 Reindeer Killed In Lightning Storm In Norway
The reindeer died on a mountain plateau in central Norway. "I don't remember hearing about lightning killing animals on this scale before," says a Norwegian environmental official.

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NPR News: A Robot That Hurts Confronts Future When Machines Make Life/Death Decisions

A Robot That Hurts Confronts Future When Machines Make Life/Death Decisions
An artist has designed a robot that purposefully defies Isaac Asimov's law that "a robot may not harm humanity" — to bring urgency to the discussion about self-driving and other smart technology.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 02:01PM, until August 29, 2016 at 02:11PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 620 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

Kentucky Students Talk Live with NASA Astronauts on Space Station

Students in Hyden, Kentucky, will have the opportunity to speak with two NASA astronauts currently living and working aboard the International Space Station at 1:10 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Aug. 31. The 20-minute, Earth-to-space call will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 29, 2016
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NPR News: 'Mars Mission' Crew Emerges From Yearlong Simulation In Hawaii

'Mars Mission' Crew Emerges From Yearlong Simulation In Hawaii
Six people spent that time living in a dome on a rocky volcanic plain on the island of Hawaii. The NASA-funded experiment was meant to simulate a long-term settlement on Mars.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 12:24PM, until August 29, 2016 at 12:33PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 542 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 10:47AM, until August 29, 2016 at 10:56AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 558 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NASA to Hold Asteroid Mission Briefings, Launch

NASA is gearing up to launch the United States’ first mission to sample an asteroid, with activities at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida beginning Tuesday, Sept. 6, and culminating with the spacecraft launch Thursday, Sept. 8. Various activities are open to media and will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 29, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 09:09AM, until August 29, 2016 at 09:19AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 635 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 29, 2016 at 07:33AM, until August 29, 2016 at 07:43AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 586 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: Audits Of Some Medicare Advantage Plans Reveal Pervasive Overcharging

Audits Of Some Medicare Advantage Plans Reveal Pervasive Overcharging
Federal audits of 37 Medicare Advantage health plans cited 35 for overbilling the government. Many plans, for example, claimed patients with depression or diabetes were sicker than they actually were.

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NPR News: When The Biggest Earthquake Ever Recorded Hit Chile, It Rocked The World

When The Biggest Earthquake Ever Recorded Hit Chile, It Rocked The World
In 1960, all of Chile shook violently for more than 10 minutes. That quake along the western coast of South America was so big it changed the way people see the world.

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NPR News: Audits Of Some Medicare Advantage Plans Reveal Pervasive Overcharging

Audits Of Some Medicare Advantage Plans Reveal Pervasive Overcharging
Federal audits of 37 Medicare Advantage health plans cited 35 for overbilling the government. Many plans, for example, claimed patients with depression or diabetes were sicker than they actually were.

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NPR News: A Chocolate Pill? Scientists To Test Whether Cocoa Extract Boosts Health

A Chocolate Pill? Scientists To Test Whether Cocoa Extract Boosts Health
Chocolate lovers may agree cocoa is the food of the gods, but how strong is the evidence that it boosts heart health? Researchers are recruiting for a new study aimed at answering this question.

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Sunday, August 28, 2016

Abell 370: Galaxy Cluster Gravitational Lens


What is that strange arc? While imaging the cluster of galaxies Abell 370, astronomers had noted an unusual arc to the right of many cluster galaxies. Although curious, one initial response was to avoid commenting on the arc because nothing like it had ever been noted before. In the mid-1980s, however, better images allowed astronomers to identify the arc as a prototype of a new kind of astrophysical phenomenon -- the gravitational lens effect of entire cluster of galaxies on background galaxies. Today, we know that this arc actually consists of two distorted images of a fairly normal galaxy that happened to lie far behind the huge cluster. Abell 370's gravity caused the background galaxies' light -- and others -- to spread out and come to the observer along multiple paths, not unlike a distant light appears through the stem of a wine glass. In mid-July of 2009, astronomers used the then just-upgraded Hubble Space Telescope to image Abell 370 and its gravitational lens images in unprecedented detail. Almost all of the yellow images featured here are galaxies in the Abell 370 cluster. An astute eye can pick up many strange arcs and distorted arclets, however, that are actually images of more distant galaxies. Studying Abell 370 and its images gives astronomers a unique window into the distribution of normal and dark matter in galaxy clusters and the universe. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bXXoiK

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 28, 2016 at 02:53PM, until August 28, 2016 at 03:04PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 637 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 28, 2016 at 01:17PM, until August 28, 2016 at 01:26PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 562 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 28, 2016 at 11:40AM, until August 28, 2016 at 11:49AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 539 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 28, 2016 at 10:02AM, until August 28, 2016 at 10:12AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 616 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 28, 2016 at 08:25AM, until August 28, 2016 at 08:35AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 627 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: A Hero For The Arts And Sciences: Upcoming Marvel Covers Promote STEAM Fields

A Hero For The Arts And Sciences: Upcoming Marvel Covers Promote STEAM Fields
The five covers feature the company's heroes — including Spiderman, Iron Man, and the Hulk — all engaging in activities educators have been trying to promote.

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Saturday, August 27, 2016

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 05:23PM, until August 27, 2016 at 05:31PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 488 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 03:46PM, until August 27, 2016 at 03:56PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 642 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 02:09PM, until August 27, 2016 at 02:19PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 587 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 12:32PM, until August 27, 2016 at 12:41PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 532 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: After Losing Half A Beak, Grecia The Toucan Becomes A Symbol Against Abuse

After Losing Half A Beak, Grecia The Toucan Becomes A Symbol Against Abuse
After the famous toucan received a prosthetic replacement, it's story has helped spark a national movement against harming animals in Costa Rica, where a new anti-abuse bill is also gaining traction.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 10:54AM, until August 27, 2016 at 11:04AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 591 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: Why Do We Only See Dragonflies In The Summer?

Why Do We Only See Dragonflies In The Summer?
NPR's Scott Simon speaks to Dr. Jessica Ware about dragonflies in this next installment of the summer series "What's Bugging You?"

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NPR News: National Day Of Mourning Commences In Italy After Earthquake

National Day Of Mourning Commences In Italy After Earthquake
Funerals are being held today for some of the more than 260 killed in the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that shook central Italy reducing many villages to rubble. Relief efforts are underway.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 27, 2016 at 09:17AM, until August 27, 2016 at 09:28AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 642 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

Friday, August 26, 2016

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 06:17PM, until August 26, 2016 at 06:22PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 317 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 04:38PM, until August 26, 2016 at 04:49PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 630 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 03:02PM, until August 26, 2016 at 03:12PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 612 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: Guess How Many Zika Cases Showed Up At The Olympics?

Guess How Many Zika Cases Showed Up At The Olympics?
Before the games, computer scientists weren't worried about the spread of Zika. But some public health experts were. What does the data show?

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NPR News: Ramen Noodles Are Now The Prison Currency Of Choice

Ramen Noodles Are Now The Prison Currency Of Choice
Ramen will buy anything from smuggled fruit to laundry services from fellow inmates, a study at one prison finds. It's not just that ramen is tasty: Prisoners say they're not getting enough food.

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NPR News: Ramen Noodles Are Now The Prison Currency Of Choice

Ramen Noodles Are Now The Prison Currency Of Choice
Ramen will buy anything from smuggled fruit to laundry services from fellow inmates, a study at one prison finds. It's not just that ramen is tasty: Prisoners say they're not getting enough food.

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NPR News: Protected Marine Area Near Hawaii Is Now Twice The Size Of Texas

Protected Marine Area Near Hawaii Is Now Twice The Size Of Texas
The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument was created by President George W. Bush. Now President Obama is quadrupling it in size — making it the biggest marine reserve in the world.

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SpaceX Dragon Splashes Down with Crucial NASA Research Samples

SpaceX's Dragon cargo spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean at 11:47 a.m. EDT Friday, Aug. 26, southwest of Baja California with more than 3,000 pounds of NASA cargo, science and technology demonstration samples from the International Space Station.

August 26, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 11:47AM, until August 26, 2016 at 11:57AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 565 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 10:10AM, until August 26, 2016 at 10:20AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 639 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 26, 2016 at 08:34AM, until August 26, 2016 at 08:43AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 566 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: Planned Parenthood Joins Campaign To Rid Miami Neighborhoods Of Zika

Planned Parenthood Joins Campaign To Rid Miami Neighborhoods Of Zika
The organization is going door to door in some of the city's poorest neighborhoods. The goal: Reach 25,000 households in six weeks with information about Zika prevention and family planning services.

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NPR News: Planned Parenthood Joins Campaign To Rid Miami Neighborhoods Of Zika

Planned Parenthood Joins Campaign To Rid Miami Neighborhoods Of Zika
The organization is going door to door in some of the city's poorest neighborhoods. The goal: Reach 25,000 households in six weeks with information about Zika prevention and family planning services.

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Thursday, August 25, 2016

Closest Star has Potentially Habitable Planet


The star closest to the Sun has a planet similar to the Earth. As announced yesterday, recent observations confirmed that this planet not only exists but inhabits a zone where its surface temperature could allow liquid water, a key ingredient for life on Earth. It is not yet known if this planet, Proxima b, has any life. Even if not, its potential ability to sustain liquid water might make it a good first hop for humanity's future trips out into the Milky Way Galaxy. Although the planet's parent star, Proxima Centauri, is cooler and redder than our Sun, one of the other two stars in the Alpha Centauri star system is very similar to our Sun. The featured image shows the sky location of Proxima Centauri in southern skies behind the telescope that made many of the discovery observations: ESO's 3.6-meter telescope in La Silla, Chile. The discovered planet orbits close in -- so close one year there takes only 11 days on Earth. The planet was discovered by the ESO's Pale Red Dot collaboration. Although seemingly unlikely, if Proxima b does have intelligent life, at 4.25 light years distance it is close enough to Earth for two-way communication. via NASA http://ift.tt/2carMtC

NPR News: Native Americans Protest New Oil Pipeline In North Dakota

Native Americans Protest New Oil Pipeline In North Dakota
Native Americans and environmentalists are protesting a pipeline slated to carry a half a million barrels of crude daily from North Dakota to Illinois. But the oil industry says the pipeline is safe.

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NASA Awards Launch Services Contract for Mars 2020 Rover Mission

NASA has selected United Launch Services LLC of Centennial, Colorado, to provide launch services for a mission that will address high-priority science goals for the agency’s Journey to Mars.

August 25, 2016
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NPR News: New Virus Breaks The Rules Of Infection

New Virus Breaks The Rules Of Infection
A virus is generally like a little ball with a few genes. Now scientists have found one that's broken up into five little balls — as if it were dismembered.

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NPR News: New Virus Breaks The Rules Of Infection

New Virus Breaks The Rules Of Infection
A virus is generally like a little ball with a few genes. Now scientists have found one that's broken up into five little balls — as if it were dismembered.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 25, 2016 at 05:31PM, until August 25, 2016 at 05:41PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 594 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

NPR News: Native Americans Protest New Oil Pipeline In South Dakota

Native Americans Protest New Oil Pipeline In South Dakota
Native Americans and environmentalists are protesting a pipeline slated to carry a half a million barrels of crude daily from North Dakota to Illinois. But the oil industry says the pipeline is safe.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 25, 2016 at 03:54PM, until August 25, 2016 at 04:05PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 632 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 25, 2016 at 12:40PM, until August 25, 2016 at 12:49PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 544 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 25, 2016 at 09:26AM, until August 25, 2016 at 09:36AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 617 seconds. http://ift.tt/2bPSXp2

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Curiosity at Murray Buttes on Mars


What are these unusual lumps on Mars? As NASA's robotic Curiosity rover continues rolling across Mars, it is now approaching Murray Buttes. Several of the 15-meter high buttes are visible ahead in this horizontally compressed 360-degree across image taken inside Gale Crater earlier this month. The buttes are thought similar to Earth buttes in that they are capped with dense rock that is relatively resistant to erosion. In the image center is Curiosity's "arm" and "hand" used to examine rocks up close, drill into rocks, and collect samples. Curiosity has reached its four year anniversary on Mars and has been cleared to spend the next two years further exploring the slopes of Mount Sharp, the peak of which is the distant light-colored structure visible on the far left. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bglGC5

NASA Astronaut Shane Kimbrough Available for Interviews Before Space Station Mission

NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough, who is making final preparations for a September launch to the International Space Station, is available for live satellite interviews from 7 to 8 a.m. EDT Tuesday, Sept. 6. The interviews will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 24, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 06:24PM, until August 24, 2016 at 06:32PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 523 seconds.

NPR News: Here's Looking Achoo! Debunking The Sneeze

Here's Looking Achoo! Debunking The Sneeze
Let's look deeper into your nose and all of its mysteries, shall we? Are you a snatiator? And does tweezing your eyebrows really make you sneeze?

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NPR News: Watch: A Slow-Motion Sneeze Looks A Lot Like Breathing Fire

Watch: A Slow-Motion Sneeze Looks A Lot Like Breathing Fire
What happens when you let loose with a juicy one? A lab of MIT mathematicians and physicists are taking a close look, with the goal of improving public health.

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NPR News: Watch: A Slow-Motion Sneeze Looks A Lot Like Breathing Fire

Watch: A Slow-Motion Sneeze Looks A Lot Like Breathing Fire
What happens when you let loose with a juicy one? A lab of MIT mathematicians and physicists are taking a close look, with the goal of improving public health.

Read more on NPR

NPR News: WATCH: Squishy 'Octobot' Moves Autonomously

WATCH: Squishy 'Octobot' Moves Autonomously
The robot designed by a team from Harvard University moves without the help of any rigid parts. Researchers say it is the first proof-of-concept design for an entirely soft, autonomous machine.

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NPR News: Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine

Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine
A genetic test of breast cancer tumors helped identify women whose survival odds would not be greatly improved by chemotherapy. But that test isn't as precise as women and doctors might like.

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NPR News: WATCH: Squishy 'Octobot' Moves Autonomously

WATCH: Squishy 'Octobot' Moves Autonomously
The robot designed by a team from Harvard University moves without the help of any rigid parts. Researchers say it is the first proof-of-concept design for an entirely soft, autonomous machine.

Read more on NPR

NPR News: Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine

Study Of Breast Cancer Treatment Reveals Paradox Of Precision Medicine
A genetic test of breast cancer tumors helped identify women whose survival odds would not be greatly improved by chemotherapy. But that test isn't as precise as women and doctors might like.

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NPR News: Oil #5: Imagine A World Without Oil

Oil #5: Imagine A World Without Oil
Last of five episodes. We follow the Planet Money oil to a gas station. And we ask: What would our world look like if there were no fossil fuels?

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NASA Awards Information Technology Services Contract

NASA has awarded an information technology services contract to All Points Logistics, LLC of Merritt Island, Florida, to perform a wide range of support services at the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and its Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans.

August 24, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 04:47PM, until August 24, 2016 at 04:57PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 642 seconds.

NPR News: Climate Change Complicates Predictions Of Damage From Big Surf

Climate Change Complicates Predictions Of Damage From Big Surf
Earth's changing climate has made the quest to understand wave behavior more important than ever, scientists say. Rising seas, storm surge and dune and reef erosion all shape Florida's Gulf Coast.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 03:10PM, until August 24, 2016 at 03:20PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 578 seconds.

NPR News: Climate Change Complicates Predictions Of Damage From Big Surf

Climate Change Complicates Predictions Of Damage From Big Surf
Earth's changing climate has made the quest to understand wave behavior more important than ever, scientists say. Rising seas, storm surge and dune and reef erosion all shape Florida's Gulf Coast.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 01:33PM, until August 24, 2016 at 01:42PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 533 seconds.

NPR News: This Planet Just Outside Our Solar System Is 'Potentially Habitable'

This Planet Just Outside Our Solar System Is 'Potentially Habitable'
It's not exactly close — 25 trillion miles from Earth, say the scientists who spotted it. But that might be near enough for further exploration. It's about Earth's size, with mild temperatures.

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NASA Flies to Africa to Study Climate Effects of Smoke on Clouds

NASA scientists and two research aircraft are on their way to a unique natural laboratory off the Atlantic coast of southwest Africa to study a major unknown in future climate prediction.

August 24, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 11:55AM, until August 24, 2016 at 12:05PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 600 seconds.

NASA Opens Media Accreditation for NOAA’s GOES-R November Launch

Media accreditation now is open for the launch of NOAA’s Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-R (GOES-R) weather and environmental satellite, currently planned for Nov. 4.

August 24, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 10:18AM, until August 24, 2016 at 10:29AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 639 seconds.

NPR News: Voice Recognition Software Finally Beats Humans At Typing, Study Finds

Voice Recognition Software Finally Beats Humans At Typing, Study Finds
In a face-off between voice entry and typing on a mobile device, voice recognition software performed significantly better. The results held true in both English and Mandarin Chinese.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 24, 2016 at 08:44AM, until August 24, 2016 at 08:51AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 421 seconds.

NPR News: Smartphones To Blame For Limp Handshakes

Smartphones To Blame For Limp Handshakes
A new study in the Journal of Hand Therapy finds that millennials constant texting, snapping, scrolling and gaming are causing the muscles in their hands to weaken — especially the guys.

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Tuesday, August 23, 2016

NPR News: Berkeley's Soda Tax Appears To Cut Consumption Of Sugary Drinks

Berkeley's Soda Tax Appears To Cut Consumption Of Sugary Drinks
According to a new study, the nation's first soda tax succeeded in cutting consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. But there's uncertainty about whether the effect will be permanent.

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NPR News: Berkeley's Soda Tax Appears To Cut Consumption Of Sugary Drinks

Berkeley's Soda Tax Appears To Cut Consumption Of Sugary Drinks
According to a new study, the nation's first soda tax succeeded in cutting consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. But there's uncertainty about whether the effect will be permanent.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 07:17PM, until August 23, 2016 at 07:23PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 383 seconds.

Media Invited to Interview Future Space Station Crew, Attend Televised NASA Briefing

NASA is inviting media to attend a news conference and conduct one-on-one interviews Tuesday, Aug. 30, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, with three crewmembers currently preparing for a November launch to the International Space Station. The 2 p.m. EDT news conference will air live on NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 23, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 05:39PM, until August 23, 2016 at 05:50PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 632 seconds.

NPR News: Radio Rookies: Reformed Catcaller Explores Roots Of Street Harassment

Radio Rookies: Reformed Catcaller Explores Roots Of Street Harassment
Growing up, Jared Marcelle watched as older men catcalled women in his Brooklyn neighborhood. He thought it was normal, so as a teenager Marcelle and his friends became those guys. But now he's changed.

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NPR News: Persistent Drought Kills Millions Of Trees In California Forests

Persistent Drought Kills Millions Of Trees In California Forests
Years of drought have strained California's forests, killing millions of trees and fueling wildfires.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 04:03PM, until August 23, 2016 at 04:13PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 600 seconds.

NPR News: Extinct 'Micro Lion' Is Named For Sir David Attenborough

Extinct 'Micro Lion' Is Named For Sir David Attenborough
Microleo attenboroughi was a tiny, marsupial lion that lived some 18 million years ago. Paleontologists in Australia said they named it after the famed naturalist "for his dedication and enthusiasm."

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NPR News: Extinct 'Micro Lion' Is Named For Sir David Attenborough

Extinct 'Micro Lion' Is Named For Sir David Attenborough
Microleo attenboroughi was a tiny, marsupial lion that lived some 18 million years ago. Paleontologists in Australia said they named it after the famed naturalist "for his dedication and enthusiasm."

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NPR News: Japan Offers 'Dementia Awareness' Courses To City Workers

Japan Offers 'Dementia Awareness' Courses To City Workers
Japan expects 7 million cases of dementia among its long-lived residents by 2025. It has started training pharmacists, bankers and postal workers in how to recognize the signs and be supportive.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 02:26PM, until August 23, 2016 at 02:35PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 529 seconds.

NPR News: Health Officials Struggle To Fight Deadly Sepsis Infections

Health Officials Struggle To Fight Deadly Sepsis Infections
Although a CDC study released today found that 80 percent of cases develop outside the hospital or at a nursing home, many people still don't know about this lethal medical condition.

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NPR News: Health Officials Struggle To Fight Deadly Sepsis Infections

Health Officials Struggle To Fight Deadly Sepsis Infections
Although a CDC study released today found that 80 percent of cases develop outside the hospital or at a nursing home, many people still don't know about this lethal medical condition.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 12:48PM, until August 23, 2016 at 12:58PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 569 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 11:11AM, until August 23, 2016 at 11:21AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 638 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 23, 2016 at 09:36AM, until August 23, 2016 at 09:45AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 538 seconds.

NPR News: Do You Read Terms Of Service Contracts? Not Many Do, Research Shows

Do You Read Terms Of Service Contracts? Not Many Do, Research Shows
During an experiment, people consented to sharing their private information with the NSA, and to surrendering their first-born as payment for access to a fictitious social networking site.

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NPR News: Do You Read Terms Of Service Contracts? Not Many Do, Research Shows

Do You Read Terms Of Service Contracts? Not Many Do, Research Shows
During an experiment, people consented to sharing their private information with the NSA, and to surrendering their first-born as payment for access to a fictitious social networking site.

Read more on NPR

NPR News: Beyond Slurpees: Many Japanese Mini-Marts Now Cater To Elders

Beyond Slurpees: Many Japanese Mini-Marts Now Cater To Elders
Convenience is in the eye of the generation. Increasingly, corner markets in Japan target the 27 percent of residents over 65 — offering nursing care advice and home delivery of meals and groceries.

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NPR News: Beyond Slurpees: Many Japanese Mini-Marts Now Cater To Elders

Beyond Slurpees: Many Japanese Mini-Marts Now Cater To Elders
Convenience is in the eye of the generation. Increasingly, corner markets in Japan target the 27 percent of residents over 65 — offering nursing care advice and home delivery of meals and groceries.

Read more on NPR

Monday, August 22, 2016

Tutulemma: Solar Eclipse Analemma


If you went outside at exactly the same time every day and took a picture that included the Sun, how would the Sun's position change? With great planning and effort, such a series of images can be taken. The figure-8 path the Sun follows over the course of a year is called an analemma. At the Winter Solstice in Earth's northern hemisphere, the Sun appears at the bottom of the analemma. Analemmas created from different latitudes appear at least slightly different, as well as analemmas created at a different time each day. With even greater planning and effort, the series can include a total eclipse of the Sun as one of the images. Pictured is such a total solar eclipse analemma or Tutulemma - a term coined by the photographers based on the Turkish word for eclipse. The featured composite image sequence was recorded from Turkey starting in 2005. The base image for the sequence is from the total phase of a solar eclipse as viewed from Side, Turkey on 2006 March 29. Venus was also visible during totality, toward the lower right. If you want to create your own USA-based tutulemma ending at next August's total solar eclipse, now would be good time to start. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bwzRrA

NPR News: You vs. Future You; Or Why We're Bad At Predicting Our Own Happiness

You vs. Future You; Or Why We're Bad At Predicting Our Own Happiness
Researcher Dan Gilbert says that human beings are the only animals that think about the future. But we don't always do the best job at predicting what will make us happy — or even who we will be.

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NPR News: You vs. Future You; Or Why We're Bad At Predicting Our Own Happiness

You vs. Future You; Or Why We're Bad At Predicting Our Own Happiness
Researcher Dan Gilbert says that human beings are the only animals that think about the future. But we don't always do the best job at predicting what will make us happy — or even who we will be.

Read more on NPR

NPR News: Flooding In Louisiana Raises Questions About Timing, Urgency Of Warnings

Flooding In Louisiana Raises Questions About Timing, Urgency Of Warnings
More than a dozen people have died and tens of thousands of homes have been damaged by floodwaters. Local authorities and residents wonder if something more could have been done to lessen the toll.

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NPR News: How Big, Really, Is The Zika Outbreak In Florida?

How Big, Really, Is The Zika Outbreak In Florida?
So far, health officials know of 37 confirmed cases of people who contracted Zika from mosquitoes in Miami. But computer models suggest the underlying outbreak in Miami is bigger — and spreading.

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NPR News: How Big, Really, Is The Zika Outbreak In Florida?

How Big, Really, Is The Zika Outbreak In Florida?
So far, health officials know of 37 confirmed cases of people who contracted Zika from mosquitoes in Miami. But computer models suggest the underlying outbreak in Miami is bigger — and spreading.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 22, 2016 at 06:33PM, until August 22, 2016 at 06:43PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 604 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 22, 2016 at 04:56PM, until August 22, 2016 at 05:06PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 623 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 22, 2016 at 03:20PM, until August 22, 2016 at 03:29PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 543 seconds.

NASA TV Coverage Set for U.S. Cargo Ship Departure from International Space Station

After delivering almost 5,000 pounds of supplies, experiments and equipment – including a docking adapter for future American commercial crew spacecraft – a SpaceX Dragon cargo craft is set to leave the International Space Station Friday, Aug. 26. NASA Television will provide coverage of Dragon’s departure beginning at 5:45 a.m. EDT.

August 22, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 22, 2016 at 12:04PM, until August 22, 2016 at 12:15PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 625 seconds.

NASA TV to Air US Spacewalk, Briefing

On Sept. 1, two NASA astronauts will spacewalk outside the International Space Station for the second time in less than two weeks.

August 22, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 22, 2016 at 10:28AM, until August 22, 2016 at 10:38AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 602 seconds.

NPR News: Research Challenges Assumptions On Why Voters Support Trump

Research Challenges Assumptions On Why Voters Support Trump
The conclusion of new research shows supporters of Donald Trump are not experiencing economic anxiety driven by trade and immigration policies, which are common themes of his campaign.

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Sunday, August 21, 2016

Map of Total Solar Eclipse Path in 2017 August


Would you like to see a total eclipse of the Sun? If so, do any friends or relatives live near the path of next summer's eclipse? If yes again, then you might want to arrange a visit for one year from today. Next year on this exact date, the path of a total solar eclipse will cut right across the center of the contiguous USA. All of North America and part of South America will experience, at the least, a partial solar eclipse. Featured here is a map of the path of totality, computed by eclipse expert Fred Espenak of NASA's GSFC. Many people who have seen a total solar eclipse tell stories about it for the rest of their lives. The last path of solar totality that included any part of the contiguous USA was in 1979, and the next two will be in 2024 and 2044. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bdhxQS

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 07:26PM, until August 21, 2016 at 07:35PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 543 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 05:49PM, until August 21, 2016 at 06:00PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 636 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 04:13PM, until August 21, 2016 at 04:22PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 566 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 02:36PM, until August 21, 2016 at 02:44PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 530 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 12:58PM, until August 21, 2016 at 01:08PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 603 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 11:21AM, until August 21, 2016 at 11:31AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 632 seconds.

NPR News: Louisiana Ignored Dire Forecasts And Flash Flood Warnings

Louisiana Ignored Dire Forecasts And Flash Flood Warnings
Tens of thousands in Louisiana were surprised by floods last week. In a changing climate, what more can be done to warn communities that the weather can do things they aren't used to?

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NPR News: What It's Really Like To 'Walk' In Space

What It's Really Like To 'Walk' In Space
The International Space Station conducted a spacewalk this week to mark 15 years in space. Three people who've walked in space share their miraculous — and miserable — experiences.

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NPR News: In Drought-Stricken California, There's No Longer A Fire "Season"

In Drought-Stricken California, There's No Longer A Fire "Season"
The state now sees wildfires that are on average bigger than ever and that burn through more of the year. Cal Fire's Southern Region information officer Michael Mohler speaks to Rachel Martin.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 21, 2016 at 09:47AM, until August 21, 2016 at 09:53AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 368 seconds.

Saturday, August 20, 2016

Gamma rays and Comet Dust


Gamma-rays and dust from periodic Comet Swift-Tuttle plowed through planet Earth's atmosphere on the night of August 11/12. Impacting at about 60 kilometers per second the grains of comet dust produced this year's remarkably active Perseid meteor shower. This composite wide-angle image of aligned shower meteors covers a 4.5 hour period on that Perseid night. In it the flashing meteor streaks can be traced back to the shower's origin on the sky. Alongside the Milky Way in the constellation Perseus, the radiant marks the direction along the perodic comet's orbit. Traveling at the speed of light, cosmic gamma-rays impacting Earth's atmosphere generated showers too, showers of high energy particles. Just as the meteor streaks point back to their origin, the even briefer flashes of light from the particles can be used to reconstruct the direction of the particle shower, to point back to the origin on the sky of the incoming gamma-ray. Unlike the meteors, the incredibly fast particle shower flashes can't be followed by eye. But both can be followed by the high speed cameras on the multi-mirrored dishes in the foreground. Of course, the dishes are MAGIC (Major Atmospheric Gamma Imaging Cherenkov) telescopes, an Earth-based gamma-ray observatory on the Canary Island of La Palma. via NASA http://ift.tt/2b5UZpl

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 08:20PM, until August 20, 2016 at 08:27PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 428 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 06:42PM, until August 20, 2016 at 06:53PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 636 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 05:06PM, until August 20, 2016 at 05:16PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 593 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 03:29PM, until August 20, 2016 at 03:38PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 527 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 01:51PM, until August 20, 2016 at 02:01PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 576 seconds.

NPR News: 'Googly-Eyed' Stubby Squid Captures Internet's Attention

'Googly-Eyed' Stubby Squid Captures Internet's Attention
Researchers from the Nautilus exploration vessel came upon the bright purple creature with giant eyes. It may look like a cartoon character, but it's real. It's also pretty tough, a researcher says.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 12:14PM, until August 20, 2016 at 12:24PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 639 seconds.

NPR News: 'Googly-Eyed' Stubby Squid Captures Internet's Attention

'Googly-Eyed' Stubby Squid Captures Internet's Attention
The crew of the exploration vehicle Nautilius came upon one ocean creature that tickled their respective fancy.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 20, 2016 at 10:39AM, until August 20, 2016 at 10:47AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 513 seconds.

NPR News: After IVF, Some Struggle With What To Do With Leftover Embryos

After IVF, Some Struggle With What To Do With Leftover Embryos
Nearly a million embryos are in frozen storage in the U.S. Some couples feel ambivalent, even after their family is complete, so put off deciding what to do with what some call their 'maybe babies.'

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Friday, August 19, 2016

Perseid Fireball at Sunset Crater


On the night of August 12, this bright Perseid meteor flashed above volcanic Sunset Crater National Monument, Arizona, USA, planet Earth. Streaking along the summer Milky Way, its initial color is likely due to the shower meteor's characteristically high speed. Entering at 60 kilometers per second, Perseid meteors are capable of exciting green emission from oxygen atoms while passing through the tenuous atmosphere at high altitudes. Also characteristic of bright meteors, this Perseid left a visibly glowing persistent train. Its evolution is seen over a three minute sequence (left to right) spanning the bottom of the frame. The camera ultimately captured a dramatic timelapse video of the twisting, drifting train. via NASA http://ift.tt/2byQIpz

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 09:15PM, until August 19, 2016 at 09:17PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 147 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 07:35PM, until August 19, 2016 at 07:46PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 614 seconds.

NPR News: Montana Officials Close Yellowstone River To Fight Fish-Killing Parasite

Montana Officials Close Yellowstone River To Fight Fish-Killing Parasite
An extraordinary effort to limit a widespread fish kill comes a week before the centennial celebration of the National Park Service.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 05:59PM, until August 19, 2016 at 06:09PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 618 seconds.

NPR News: As July's Record Heat Builds Through August, Arctic Ice Keeps Melting

As July's Record Heat Builds Through August, Arctic Ice Keeps Melting
July 2016 was Earth's hottest month on record. And Arctic ice has shrunk this year almost as much as it did in 2012 — the most severe melt to date.

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NPR News: As July's Record Heat Builds Through August, Arctic Ice Keeps Melting

As July's Record Heat Builds Through August, Arctic Ice Keeps Melting
July 2016 was Earth's hottest month on record. And Arctic ice has shrunk this year almost as much as it did in 2012 — the most severe melt to date.

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NPR News: Sting's Brain Scan Reveals Clues About How The Musical Mind Works

Sting's Brain Scan Reveals Clues About How The Musical Mind Works
When Dr. Daniel J. Levitin, a McGill University cognitive neuroscientist, mapped the brain of musician Sting in 2007, he found that a musically trained mind will make deep connections to different types of music.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 04:22PM, until August 19, 2016 at 04:31PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 538 seconds.

NPR News: 300 Miles Above Us, Astronauts Give The Space Station A New Door

300 Miles Above Us, Astronauts Give The Space Station A New Door
Two American astronauts are installing a new docking port that will allow astronauts traveling with private companies to enter the International Space Station.

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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 02:45PM, until August 19, 2016 at 02:54PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 550 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 19, 2016 at 11:31AM, until August 19, 2016 at 11:41AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 588 seconds.

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

NASA Prepares to Launch First U.S. Asteroid Sample Return Mission

NASA is preparing to launch its first mission to return a sample of an asteroid to Earth. The mission will help scientists investigate how planets formed and how life began, as well as improve our understanding of asteroids that could impact Earth.

August 17, 2016
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The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 17, 2016 at 01:17PM, until August 17, 2016 at 01:27PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 639 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 17, 2016 at 11:42AM, until August 17, 2016 at 11:50AM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 484 seconds.

NPR News: What Does It Take To Map A Walrus Hangout? 160 Years And A Lot Of Help

What Does It Take To Map A Walrus Hangout? 160 Years And A Lot Of Help
Groups of walruses are vulnerable to disturbances, but it's hard to avoid them if you don't know where they are. A new tool from U.S. and Russian researchers draws on history to protect the animals.

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NPR News: How To Catch The Biggest Wave In The Universe

How To Catch The Biggest Wave In The Universe
An L-shaped machine in Louisiana is hunting for some of the most powerful waves in existence: gravitational waves. This wave detector acts like a giant tape measure to capture bends in space and time.

Read more on NPR

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Five Planets and the Moon over Australia


It is not a coincidence that planets line up. That's because all of the planets orbit the Sun in (nearly) a single sheet called the plane of the ecliptic. When viewed from inside that plane -- as Earth dwellers are likely to do -- the planets all appear confined to a single band. It is a coincidence, though, when several of the brightest planets all appear in nearly the same direction. Such a coincidence was captured just last week. Featured above, six planets and Earth's Moon were all imaged together last week, just before sunset, from Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia. A second band is visible across the top of this tall image -- the central band of our Milky Way Galaxy. via NASA http://ift.tt/2bClNx6

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 10:17PM, until August 16, 2016 at 10:21PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 263 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 08:38PM, until August 16, 2016 at 08:49PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 622 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 07:02PM, until August 16, 2016 at 07:12PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 612 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 05:25PM, until August 16, 2016 at 05:34PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 534 seconds.

NPR News: Short Answers To Big Questions: The Power Of Earth's Magnetic Field

Short Answers To Big Questions: The Power Of Earth's Magnetic Field
All Things Considered asked listeners to ask our resident astrophysicist big questions, so we can give you short answers. Today we explore magnetic fields and explain why they are so powerful on Earth.

Read more on NPR

NPR News: White House Announces New Fuel Efficiency Standards For Trucks, Buses

White House Announces New Fuel Efficiency Standards For Trucks, Buses
The Obama administration has announced new fuel efficiency standards for trucks and buses.

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 03:47PM, until August 16, 2016 at 03:57PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 556 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 02:10PM, until August 16, 2016 at 02:20PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 633 seconds.

NASA Television to Air Journey to Mars Showcase, Rocket Engine Test

NASA is offering a behind-the-scenes look Thursday, Aug. 18, at its Journey to Mars, including the test of a rocket engine that will launch the agency to the Red Planet, with live coverage on social media, NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 16, 2016
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NPR News: 'Roaring Wind' Examines Extreme Weather, And The Power Of Air

'Roaring Wind' Examines Extreme Weather, And The Power Of Air
Biologist Bill Streever sailed from Texas to Guatemala while doing research for his new book, And Soon I Heard a Roaring Wind. He says the wind was working against him "most of the time."

Read more on NPR

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 16, 2016 at 12:34PM, until August 16, 2016 at 12:44PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 573 seconds.

NASA Unveils New Public Web Portal for Research Results

Public access to NASA-funded research data now is just a click away, with the launch of a new agency public access portal. The creation of the NASA-Funded Research Results portal on NASA.gov reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to providing broad public access to science data.

August 16, 2016
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NASA Television Airs Journey to Mars Showcase, Rocket Engine Test

NASA is offering a behind-the-scenes look Thursday, Aug. 18, at its Journey to Mars, including the test of a rocket engine that will launch the agency to the Red Planet, with live coverage on social media, NASA Television and the agency’s website.

August 16, 2016
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NPR News: Why High-Income Households Benefit More From Product Innovations

Why High-Income Households Benefit More From Product Innovations
A Stanford University researcher finds that products purchased mainly by poor people were increasing in price much more quickly than those purchased by the wealthy.

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NPR News: Why High-Income Households Benefit More From Product Innovations

Why High-Income Households Benefit More From Product Innovations
A Stanford University researcher finds that products purchased mainly by poor people were increasing in price much more quickly than those purchased by the wealthy.

Read more on NPR

Monday, August 15, 2016

Human as Spaceship


You are a spaceship soaring through the universe. So is your dog. We all carry with us trillions of microorganisms as we go through life. These multitudes of bacteria, fungi, and archaea have different DNA than you. Collectively called your microbiome, your shipmates outnumber your own cells. Your crew members form communities, help digest food, engage in battles against intruders, and sometimes commute on a liquid superhighway from one end of your body to the other. Much of what your microbiome does, however, remains unknown. You are the captain, but being nice to your crew may allow you to explore more of your local cosmos. via NASA http://ift.tt/2aW739w

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 15, 2016 at 09:31PM, until August 15, 2016 at 09:41PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 580 seconds.

The International Space Station passed overhead

From August 15, 2016 at 07:55PM, until August 15, 2016 at 08:05PM, the International Space Station passed over overhead for 631 seconds.