Space Mysterious radio waves emitted from nearby galaxy Something in there is producing an unusually regular radio signal Update on 13 December 2010: The object is still a puzzle, says co-discoverer Tom Muxlow. "It was still there the last time we looked, so its lifetime is now well over a year," he says. "We are continuing to monitor this object." There is something … News
Life The secrets of intelligence lie within a single cell Modelling the neuron as little more than a simple on/off switch is a big mistake LATE at night on a sultry evening, I watch intently as the predator senses its prey, gathers itself, and strikes. It could be a polecat, or even a mantis – but in fact it's a microbe. The microscopic world of … Opinion
Technology Blingtronics: Diamonds are a geek's best friend Setting a gold standard IT'S LIKE walking into a bank vault. Pass codes secure the doors. The walls and floor are made of reinforced concrete up to 2 metres thick – all built on solid sandstone. The ventilation ducts have automatic shut-offs. Not even cellphone signals can sneak in. All this might seem fitting given … Features
Enigma Number 1592 Seeing spots If you take a domino set and discard all those dominoes which involve a 5 or a 6, leaving 15 dominoes with a 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 at each end, then the rest can be laid out, spotty sides up, to form a 5-by-6 rectangle. Then, taking the number of spots … Regulars
Does not contain seaweed Does not contain seaweed READER Jeff Moore couldn't help but wonder at the packaging of the Lundberg Honey Nut Rice Cakes he bought at his local grocery store. It assured him that the food "Does not contain nuts". Dare Jeff presume that the honey, at least, is present? We, too, are busy wondering, along with … Regulars