June 3, 2008

There were 4 posts published on June 3, 2008 (this is page 1 of 1).

Newly-discovered planets

I’m always amazed when our scientists discover extra-solar planets, such as the one announced yesterday. Just a few years ago these kinds of discoveries were unheard of. I’m fascinated at how science can pick out these tiny specks orbiting stars that are light-years away.

On a related note, I’ve been unable to find a website listing of all discovered planets. NASA doesn’t seem to have a page, and the various universities and researchers tend to put out press releases with their announcements but don’t seem to collect them anywhere.

Anyone have a good resource showing all the known planets?

Update: Thanks to Wikipedia, I found exactly what I’m looking for: NASA’s PlanetQuest! PlanetQuest even has a widget for your desktop showing the latest planet count. Cool!

We’re up to 292 exoplanets now, for those of you keeping score.

Ty-ed up in red tape

My officemates and I were out on an afternoon walk around the city when I ran into N.C. Rep. Ty Harrell. Almost literally ran into him: he was walking out of the municipal building with a cellphone to his ear just as we were walking by.

Once he got through with his call he told us about his odyssey to get the appropriate ABC permits for his fundraiser tonight at Artspace. He apparently had to go to at least four different agencies to get approval – including one where he needed a background check!

“I had to prove I’m a state legislator,” he said.

Unbelievable. Who knew what kind of red tape would be involved in hosting a party?

If you’re looking for something to do tonight (and you’ve got a little cash to contribute to his campaign), stop by Artspace tonight for Ty’s fundraiser. We’re lucky to have guys like him serving the state.

I’m alpha civics geek!

I learned today that my Raleigh Neighborhood College class has voted me the class valedictorian! Not too shabby for a guy who barely got in, eh?

I’m humbled and quite honored that such a fine group of citizens saw fit to name me their leader. Indeed, I’ve learned as much from my classmates as I did the presentations. I will miss the weekly interaction we have enjoyed for the past three months. Raleigh has some sharp citizens, let me tell you!

On the other hand, there’s a good chance my sneaky classmates tapped me just so they wouldn’t have to speak at Thursday’s graduation. Heh.