Of the 37 new extrasolar objects spotted in the past year, 28 of them have been extrasolar planets. This brings the total to 236 known exoplanets and shows that planets can exist around a broad spectrum of stellar types.
NASA has a lovely gallery highlighting the artistic range of colors and shapes on Mars. There’s also another one featuring the sun.
Threadless is selling this wonderful Spoiler T-shirt. Huh; I had no idea what was in Soylent Green.
Link (via BoingBoing)
…but now you’re dark chocolate.
Instructables user FreakCitySF has posted instructions on how to make a candy mold to turn out your very own chocolate Han Solo in Carbonite. Weird. Eerie.
Another answer to those irritating door-bell ringers. HA!
On May 25, 1977, audiences were first introduced to Luke, Han, Leia, and the rest of the gang. To say that the movie was seminal is like saying the Pacific Ocean is damp.
(Anybody else feel old, or is it just me?)
Update: The fabulous Professor Fate just sent me a link for “Star Wars Toys That Never Were.” It’s a pity Kenner passed on these.
Fiber artist Jennifer Strunge makes unique monsters out of recycled clothing and linens. According the the FAQ, although they may pretend to eat your arm, they prefer broccoli.
Link (via Everlasting Blort)
The Japan Science and Technology Agency offers the “Earth Guide,” an infographic that answers science and geography questions such as, “Where does the sky become space?” No word on whether it describes the planet as “Mostly Harmless.”
Cartoonist Joe Alterio is raising money for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation in an unusual way. Make a donation and he will draw a robot or a monster (your choice) defined by three words or phrases you provide (“pink, cute, holding flowers,” “arrogant, obtuse, left-handed,” whatever).
Researchers at Sheffield University in the UK have devised artificial blood; plastic molecules with an iron atom at their core. Like hemoglobin, it can carry oxygen through the body. Unlike hemoglobin, it doesn’t go bad at warm temperatures and is easy to carry and store.
Link (via SciFi Tech)