Alan_442 - Slashdot User

Submission + - New Theory Explains Periodic Mass Extinctions

Submitted by i_like_spam on Thursday August 02, 2007 @02:07PM

i_like_spam writes: The theory that the dinosaurs were wiped out by an asteroid impact, the K-T extinction, is well known and supported by fossil and geological evidence. Asteroid impact theory does not apply to the other fluctuations in biodiversity, however, which follow an approximate 62 million-year cycle. As reported in Science news, a new theory seems to explain periodic mass extinctions. The new theory found that oscillations in the Sun relative to the plane of the Milky Way correlate with changes in biodiversity on Earth. The researchers suggest that an increase in the exposure of Earth to extragalatic cosmic rays causes mass extinctions. Here is the original paper describing the finding.

Submission + - Inside FAA's GPS-Based NextGen Air Traffic Control (popularmechanics.com)

Submitted by

longacre

on Monday July 23, 2007 @05:32PM

longacre writes: "With the growing number of planes in the air setting its archaic radar-based air traffic control on a course toward "total system collapse", the FAA has quietly begun testing a new GPS-based system on Alaska Airlines 737s. While radar can take over half a minute to determine a plane's location, GPS technology known as ADS-B broadcasts an aircraft's position to controllers and nearby pilots in essentially real time. If all goes as planned, travelers will see fewer delays as planes will be able to fly closer together and in reduced visibility conditions, and airlines will achieve significant fuel savings through the ability to fly more direct routes. The feds plan a gradual rollout over the next two decades that may cost up to $40 billion."

Submission + - 22 Dead In Virginia Tech Shooting

Submitted by nexuspal on Monday April 16, 2007 @02:41PM

nexuspal writes: 22 confirmed dead at Virginia Tech. Shooter killed some at residence hall then two hours later killed others in classrooms. Worst school shooting in US history. CNN Link

Submission + - New Law Lets Data Centers Hide Power Usage

Submitted by

1sockchuck

on Friday April 13, 2007 @04:02PM

1sockchuck writes: "Just days after Google announced that it may build a huge data center in the state, Oklahoma's governor has signed a bill into law that will effectively exempt the largest customers of municipal power companies from public disclosure of how much power they are using. Officials of the state's power industry say the measure is not a "Google Law" but was sought "on behalf of large-volume electric users that might be considering a move to Oklahoma." Others acknowledge that data center operators were among those seeking the law, apparently arguing that the details of their enormous power usage are a trade secret. Google recently acquired 800 acres in Pryor, Oklahoma for possible development as a data center, and is reportedly seeking up to 15 megawatts of power for the facility."

Submission + - Prius more environmentally damaging than a Hummer

Submitted by on Tuesday March 20, 2007 @12:32PM

An anonymous reader writes: According to this story from Central Connecticut State University the Prius takes more energy to manufacture than a Hummer, requiring 50% more energy to produce. In addition, they calculate that the Prius costs $3.25 per mile over it's expected lifespan of 100,000 miles compared to $1.95 per mile for the hummer.

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