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Build, Hack, and Deploy Detectors to Measure Solar UV Radiation

Build, Hack, and Deploy Detectors to Measure Solar UV Radiation

Sunlight is essential for our survival, but too much of a good thing can sometimes be harmful. That certainly applies to the invisible ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths of sunlight, for too much exposure to UV can cause sunburn and even skin cancer. Yet, moderate exposure is important, for both mammals and reptiles depend on ultraviolet sunlight […]

Remaking History: James Watt and the Flyball Governor

Remaking History: James Watt and the Flyball Governor

In 1764, scotsman James Watt grew thoughtful as he tinkered with the machinery associated with his job as a steam engine technician. The main problem with those early steam engines, called Newcomen engines, was that they were terribly inefficient. They were a step up from draft horses, but Newcomen engines went through coal like a […]