Category: Science

Stuffed animals in space! Well, one, anyway, as a group of primary school kids send their furry pal off on an adventure. Sam the stuffed astronaut went soaring (or at least floating) into the stratosphere course of a large helium balloon and no doubt a ton of hopeful wishes from the students.

Sam went over 15 miles into the atmosphere, equipped with his handy GoPro camera, giving us a beautiful view. The ballon landed about 30 miles from the launch site, but alas Sam was nowhere to be found. Ground Control Calling Major Sam…

 

We’ve talked about Vantablack before, but seeing it in action really shows off just how black it really is…

 

In a toxic cave in Colorado recently blood worms were discovered that were actually managing to thrive in the hostile environment. The tiny worms, possibly a new species, are being studied to see how they can bind oxygen so effectively to survive. This could have far reaching effects for humans in less than ideal conditions. Ready to play on Mars? Here’s your injection…

 

Old fashioned keys – these raised flat pieces of metal control so much of the world around us, allowing us access to many things, from our cars to our homes and everything in between. But how do they work?

The animated gifs do a great job of detailing how the key fits into the lock, aligning the tumblers and allowing the key to turn. Of course, new technology takes the process several steps farther by embedding IDs or otherwise authenticating the key itself. But I think watching a standard key fit into its lock is a pleasing process to watch.

 

 

 

via GIPHY