Friday, July 30, 2010

Iz like my kitteh

Big magnets...not to be trifled with...



This happened at work once (on a smaller scale). It wasn't pretty. $5000 to remove a metal handle from the N2 valve that bounced straight into a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Magnet. The Dr down the hall is built like a linebacker but he couldn't pry it off. Can't turn off the magnet, you have to quench it, destroying it. No good.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Holy crap it's cute

and badass (it eats men-of-war)? nice


source

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Another yay science post!

Students make a portable centrifuge that doesn't require electricity for ~$30. The one in my lab probably cost $2,000+. Granted, it has more features and is far more helpful to me on a daily basis, but yeah, this is cool.


Sally Centrifuge - Read more here.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Remembering awesome...

A friend of mine is going backpacking which reminds me of my South America trip.

THIS WAS THE BEST PACK EVER!!

Osprey Kestrel 48


OTHER ESSENTIALS:

North Face Capris: Good for warmer climates, making you feel like not a total schlub while backpacking and are quick dry. Don't forget lightweight.


Convertible North Face pants: Good for every day. Great for days when you change from the mountains to suddenly in the rainforest (like we did). Look silly but are quick dry and are very lightweight. (Pictured: Paramount Peak Convertible Pant)


Chacos!!! Just be warned the following may happen. However, mine were perfect for white water rafting when everyone else went barefoot. And hiking when boots are too heavy. Bring these (maybe Tivas) or just don't bring sandals.



Hi-Tec Boots (or other awesome hiking boot): Keep the feet dry and happy.


Good hiking socks: Wick moisture to keep your feet dry, provide support, breathe, warm and cushion your feetsies. I forget the exact brand of mine but these look right. (Pictured: Thorlo Hiking socks)



Under Armour rain coat: It stops the wind, has no leak zippers and, thankfully, breathes. It's the only rain coat I've ever liked. It is also a goofy coral color...but I got it on sale


Columbia fleece (or other awesome fleece): I got mine at JC Penney for $15-20 probably 5 years ago...yay spring sale. Didn't need more than this and my rain jacket for cold nights. But this was South America, not Alaska.


Camelbak: For all your water-carrying needs. My pack also has a pouch specifically for this and places to attach the hose. Perfect.


Leatherman Blast (or other Leatherman or Gerber):


Yep, definitely the stuff I will never travel without again. The quick dry underwear wasn't bad but at $18 a pop, I dunno. They would actually dry after you washed them in the wickedly humid air.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Thursday, July 8, 2010