Zepplins for Communication

Large airships, like a Zeppelin, will be floating overhead and beaming cell phone calls to planet’s surface if a Swiss inventor has his way. The airship will use a new way to broadcast that produces less radiation, which is nice considering the ongoing debate about the dangers of cellphones.

Additionally, the airships will be solar powered and be robot controlled, which means that the cost will be low and nice on the environment.

“Thanks to a GPS steering system developed by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, the 60-meter long helium-filled balloon will remain stationary at 21 kilometres above the earth.

A small-unmanned aircraft outfitted with a mobile phone antenna and other devices for transmitting digital data will be attached to the zeppelin. The X station has been equipped with giant propellers to help counter the almost constant buffeting from the wind. “

Scientists Study the Mushroom Trip

In a scientific study reminiscent of 1960’s era experimentation, researchers are delving into the effects of psylocibe mushrooms on human consciousness.

Psilocybe MushroomsIn a scientific study reminiscent of 1960’s era experimentation, researchers are delving into the effects of psylocibe mushrooms on human consciousness, the CBC reports.

The research has shown more clearly than any previous research that psilocybin produces mystical experiences in the user. 36 volunteers were tested in this modern scientific experiment, and months later they reported lasting changes in behavior as a result of the experience.

The scientists are hopeful that more research into this area will help people to deal with a number of problems such as emotional trauma and addiction.

The researchers advise against experimenting on one’s own with the drugs, as they can lead to extremely frightening experiences.

Sod Off!

sod wheelSome enterprising grad students at Dalhousie in Halifax, Nova Scotia, have taken the park on the road. The architecture students were exploring the concept of public and green space and came up with this groovy way to always walk on the grass!

“”We’re looking at the idea of green space in the city,” said grad student Kevin James. “Even in the Public Gardens, you’re not allowed to walk on the grass.”

Halifax Downtown Coun. Dawn Sloane says they’re right, except for the Public Gardens statement. In fact, playing on the grass is allowed in the children’s area, but the problem is nobody knows about it.

“I think our biggest issue right now is that not only is our green space being utilized for some of the wrong reasons, but they’re under- utilized by the communities, and we do need more,” she said.”

The concept isn’t perfect because when the sod is over your head dirt falls on you. If the concept really dries up then maybe they’ll turn it into a hot tub.

Internet Hunting Banned

The internet fad of hunting living animals in the wild through a website is losing momentum. Recently “Louisiana has joined 21 other states in banning Internet hunting,” which is nice to see. Banning internet hunting will obviously make it easier for animals to keep living.

Thanks Kate for letting us know about this, and remember that anyone can submit news through our handy submit form

Star Wars Reanalyzed

The Union of Concerned Scientists have done it again with a simple, yet effective video clip detailing the problems with missile defence. See article here.

In a world where tensions among nations seem to be increasing it is important for people to realize the false realities of perceived security systems. Arguably it is better to spend all the R&D money spent on star wars to be spent on meaningful science that promotes peace, not war.