From the Google Chrome Experiments comes 100,000 Stars, a virtual tour of our Milky Way galaxy. This is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences I’ve ever had with a web browser. Go play and wonder.
>> 100,000 Stars | Chrome Experiments
Hello, World! The Whole Universe In One Photo
From the frontiers of astronomy, a galactic bird’s eye view of the universe:
Made up of more than 2.7 million images taken at four infrared wavelengths of light, the new image captures everything from nearby asteroids to distant galaxies.
I must admit, it’s easy to get turned around. I’m still looking for the little “I am here” marker.
>> Link: The Whole Universe In One Photo
Explore the Solar System and Night Sky in 3D
SolarSystemScope presents a very cool online interface for zooming around the solar system in a beautiful 3D model. The whole experience happens right in your web browser. Check it out!
> Link: Solar System Scope | Interactive 3D model of Solar System Planets and Night Sky
World’s Most Beautiful Computer
The Spanish have been doing it for centuries–mixing cultures across time and heritage. The Alhambra, the Mosque of Cordoba, the Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca. Why not do it in the most modern of settings?
The Barcelona Supercomputing Center features the MareNostrum: a supercomputer housed in an old Roman Catholic church! Even if you don’t know a thing about supercomputing, you can appreciate the stunning architectural design of the place.
>> Link: WikiPedia: MareNostrum
Cosmic Origins: Birth, Life, and Death of the Universe
The University of Arizona presents a well-produced series of engaging lectures on popular cosmology: the origins of the universe, black holes, dark matter, the big bang, and the search for (and understanding of) life in the universe. It’s all free on iTunes U–a fantastic source for free audio and video courses online.
Japan’s Post-Quake Nuclear Energy Troubles Explained
The Economist presents a thorough primer on what’s going on at Japan’s failed nuclear energy facilities–the science, technology, obstacles, crises, and solutions are all explained well. A good read if you want a high-level overview of the terrible situation there.
>> Link: The post-earthquake nuclear crisis: The Japan syndrome | The Economist
Google Global Science Fair 2011
I just learned that Google is hosting a world-wide science fair this year. Thought about entering, but you have to be under 18 to submit. Looks cool though!
And makes me wonder…how many things can Google do?!
>> Link: Google Global Science Fair 2011
Starts With A Bang…
If you’re wondering what this wide-angle view of the universe tells us…
