Surprising Science — March 7, 2014

Mysterious Ubiquitous Earth Creature Can Survive in Space

If these mysterious creatures can survive in Space then maybe they came from space, according to this video from Vice. Tardigrades look like a George Lucas-depiction of a caterpillar. Researchers don’t know how they evolved and how they’re able to withstand extreme heat, extreme cold, ultraviolet radiation, solar radiation, x-ray radiation, and the other intense conditions of Space. The fact that they’re able to survive in off of Earth is suspicious indeed.

Strange Maps

America’s news deserts are growing

Most counties in the U.S. have only one local newspaper, often one that publishes weekly instead of daily.

Two people walking past a dark brick wall with numerous security cameras pointing in various directions.

The Present

Are smart cities a wise idea?

When Google runs a smart city, who owns the data?

Illustration of a young woman with closed eyes, smiling, next to a large, detailed eye and surrounded by vibrant, abstract elements and smiley faces.

Neuropsych

Eyes wide shut: Why closing your eyes intensifies psychedelic trips

A recent study suggests that exposure to visual stimuli can diminish the effects of psychedelic drugs.

Starts With A Bang

The big idea of Grand Unified Theories of physics

If the electromagnetic and weak forces unify to make the electroweak force, maybe, at higher energies, something even grander happens?

Microscopic image of a small electronic component with clear details of its structure and connections against a gray background.

The Future

Making microbots smart

What would it take to create a truly intelligent microbot, one that can operate independently?

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