Kerbal Space Program is ready to launch.
All posts by Rand Simberg
The Logic Of Vulcan
No, not about the planet, but about the new rocket. Interesting background on ULA’s engine decision.
The Tragedy Of Nepal
My thoughts on natural disasters, climate change, risk, and economics.
[Monday-morning update]
Related thoughts from David Hagen, over at Climate, Etc.
The Nepal Quake
Amidst the tragedy of hundreds killed, it’s had a devastating effect on Everest expeditions, as climbing season has started. Devastation in the base camp, and a lot people all right, but trapped at higher elevations. This is one hazard most hadn’t been considering when they decided to climb, though if they knew their history, they’d know that the region was due for something like this. A quake not far from this one in 1934 killed thousands.
[Update a while later]
“Since 1570, 85% of the world’s earthquake fatalities have occurred in the Alpine/Himalayan collision belt.”
[Update mid afternoon]
Here’s the latest from the WaPo.
[Update a while later]
Here’s a roundup from Buzzfeed, with several pictures from the shattered base camp.
I wonder what all those Buddhists think when they see their iconic temples destroyed like that?
[Late Sunday-morning update]
Video of the quake and avalanche at the base camp. [Warning: Bad words in multiple languages]
[Bumped]
Painless Executions
I’ve been wondering for years why they don’t just use nitrogen gas. Well, apparently, Oklahoma wants to start doing it.
[Update a couple minutes later]
Here‘s a piece from Slate that I missed a year ago. No one seems to offer a single reason not to go this route, other than “it requires study.” It’s been obvious to me (as I said) for years.
Space Policy
What’s coming up this week. Sixty Minutes should be interesting this evening.
[Afternoon update]
If you don’t want to watch the show, Space News has the transcript.
Where To Go To College
It doesn’t really matter all that much. Yes, what matters is how you go to college, and what you major in, and learn.
Global Warming Data
A new investigation into how much it’s been “adjusted.”
Being A Boring Writer
Raisin The Issue
It’s not a good sign when the Supreme Court literally laughs at your case.
I assume, or at least hope, that if the farmer wins, it will open up a lot of other lawsuits, to dismantle all this nonsense that goes back to the New Deal. It’s the Commerce Clause run amok.