Neither I nor David Bowie know for sure. But the Phoenix Lander is on Mars … and with it - among quarter of a million others - is my signature, thanks to the Planetary Society and me spending a few minutes a year or so ago. Which feels both weird and cool at once, to be honest.

As far as life on Earth is concerned, today was a pretty majestic FAIL, thanks to circumstances beyond my control. But hey - it’s not all about me. And tomorrow is another day, as the saying goes. The species progresses, even when I do not. This is comforting, somehow.

Thanks to a number of people for dropping me a line about this - I’d have caught it in the daily news-trawl anyway, but it’s flattering to know that you care about my coverage!

So, yes; Earth-like exoplanet spotted. Lot’s of poor journalism about though, which I’ll not bother linking to. For the more detailed facts of the matter, I refer you on to the ever-reliable Centauri Dreams, which discusses what is known for certain (and what is mere conjecture) about the planet and the solar syastem it is situated in, and then looks at the potential of the planet as an environment habitable to humans.

Of course, not everyone is particularly impressed by this - transhumanist philosopher Michael Anissimov believes (with some justification) that we should use our time and effort more effectively, and stop getting excited about other planets until we’ve properly addressed the issues and potentials of the one we find ourselves on already.

That difference in attitudes throws an interesting light on the post I just made about modern (and post-modern) science fiction themes, come to think of it. While I’m overjoyed that we’re exploring space (albeit only by telescope at the moment), I’d dearly like to see a lot more focus on issues closer to home - though not at the expense of the gosh-wow space stuff, if at all possible. Yes, I’ll have my slice of hypocrisy cake and eat it, thanks.

[This post adapted and expanded from an original at Futurismic, because I don't have the time to write things out twice if I can possibly avoid it. Shout-outs for news alerts to Jetse and Ariel - thanks, guys.]

I sincerely hope this turns out to be unnecessary concern, but Colony Worlds suggests that Liftport, one of the leading space elevator companies, may be forced to shut down after losing their office space. The official Liftport staff blog indicates that times are tough, but therer’s no definite word either way as of yet. I’m not ashamed to say that I’d be gutted to see Liftport fold - in a world where so many are busy staring at their feet, those guys have the guts to look up at the stars. Best wishes, Liftport.

[Cross-posted from Futurismic]

As might be considered fitting on the birthday of Copernicus, a few items regarding the Fermi Paradox turned up in my feeds today, so I thought I’d share the wealth. Continue reading “Fermi Paradox manifests”

How in hell do you keep your mind on the job at hand when there’s a view like this to distract you?

Picture originally from (and doubtless copyright of) NASA; found at Accelerating Future.

My back is wrecked again. Pictures like this are a welcome distraction.

NASA caused quite a stir with a recent announcement of their intent to return to the moon and establish a full-time colony there. Continue reading “Small steps before giant leaps - why we should be planning to build orbital colonies before lunar colonies”

I can’t imagine any futurists, space-nuts or general geeks in the US could have wished for a better present on Independence Day. Continue reading “Congratulations, Discovery”

NASA is in a tricky position. Continue reading “The shuttle gamble”

Crikey. I know Stephen Hawking is a genius and everything, but I’m not sure whether he foresaw this happening. Continue reading “The great Hawking off-planet debate”

It’s been a bad week for space elevator enthusiasts, such as myself. Continue reading “Elevators or piers?”