The research, led by scientists at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colo., uses observations, gene expression studies, and computer modeling to show that deciduous plants absorb about a third more of a common class of air-polluting chemicals than previously thought.
read here
Jugnu, the nano satellite developed by Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur (IIT-K) is expected to be launched in the polar orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota in the first six months of 2011.
Though it was expected that it would be launched this month, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has allotted a slot in the first half of 2011 to IIT-K for the launch.
The final model of the satellite is being given the final touches. A team of 12 professors and 45 students have been working on the project since December 2007.
Weighing 3.5 kgs, Jugnu will be launched in the Polar orbit, 700 km above the ground level. The nano satellite, which has a life span of a year, will encircle earth 14 to 15 times each day and transmit images of weather, soil and water bodies to the IIT-K base station.
Links
Source:Indian Express
In the satellite industry, ‘small’ could be the next big thing in the coming years
Counter-urbanisation is the movement of people out of cities, to the surrounding areas. Since 1950 this process has been occurring in More Economically Developed Countries.
There are four main reasons for counter-urbanisation:
1. The increase in car ownership over the last 40 years means people are more mobile. This has led to an increase in commuting. Also, the growth in information technology (E-mail, faxes and video conferencing) means more people can work from home.
2. Urban areas are becoming increasing unpleasant place to live. This is the result of pollution, crime and traffic congestion.
3. More people tend to move when they retire.
4. New business parks on the edge of cities (on Greenfield sites) mean people no longer have to travel to the city centre. People now prefer to live on the outskirts of the city to be near where they work.
Links:
click here for a ppt
I have found this very interesting and useful post on greenpeace site. Click here to read.
Rashid's Blog: A Place for Inquisitive Souls 