My astronomy correspondent sent me this very cool image of the Earth and the Moon, as seen from near the sun: Click for a larger image. Source and explanation here. … [Read more...] about The Earth and Moon
Memorializing 9/11
I don't understand memorials and monuments. Or maybe it would be more accurate to say I don't understand how other people think about memorials and monuments. It just doesn't make much sense to me.I have the good fortune of having lead a peaceful life. Other than my parents, no one really close to me has died. Perhaps if I'd experienced more tragedy, I'd understand people's … [Read more...] about Memorializing 9/11
As Long As No One Got Hurt…
I had met my friend Fritz at a local pizza joint for some lunch, when we noticed something suspicious at another table: A couple of pasty-looking white guys, they had briefcases on the table and were exchanging things them while speaking in hushed tones. They wore paramilitary outfits -- matching blue shirts and pants and matching blue jackets -- and we could see … [Read more...] about As Long As No One Got Hurt…
P≠NP (maybe)
Wow! Vinay Deolalikar, a Hewlett Packard researcher, has published his proof that P≠NP. It may not mean much to most of you, but P versus NP is the greatest unsolved problem of theoretical computer science. A complete explanation of the problem would be lengthy, but let me see if I can summarize it. P represents a large set of computer science problems that are known to be … [Read more...] about P≠NP (maybe)
Three Badgelickers Explain Why You Shouldn’t Make Videos of Cops
Radley Balko has been covering the issue of citizens who take videos of cops and get arrested for it. It's only illegal in a few states (including Maryland and Illinois) but that doesn't mean you can't get arrested for it anywhere. In Radley's latest piece, he interviews two prosecutors and the head of the Fraternal Order of Police, and they say some of the stupidest things … [Read more...] about Three Badgelickers Explain Why You Shouldn’t Make Videos of Cops