If Earth Had Rings
First off, they would be really pretty to look at. They would also dominate the sky in both night and day at exactly the same place as they would never rise nor set. And at night you would see the Earth’s shadow swing across the rings, like in the 4th photo here.
However, life would be very different on Earth if this were the case. Nocturnal animals would have a hard time being nocturnal, as the light reflecting from the rings would illuminate the night.
Because we are closer to the Sun than Saturn is, the rings would be more rocky than ice, making them less bright but still pretty bright. In fact, you would see far less stars at night (living anywhere other than the equator or the arctic circle) because of the light pollution and not to mention ruin most meteor showers because of that.
During the day the rings would block sunlight in certain regions of the planet creating wild weather cycles and effecting plant life as well. So basically, they would be definitely pretty to look at but they would also make a whole lot of things screwy.
Illustrations by Ron Miller // io9
— Click the photos for captions
Just went through some text messages/photos/conversations in my old phone. I haven’t touched it since last November. What a different life I had in terms of the people, experiences, relationships, and more. What an odd timepiece. I just performed a factory reset on it though; going to be selling it soon.
Looking at my texts, I feel like I’m back in high school. This weekend at UW was so dang refreshing. Never thought I had missed my friends here this much! Can’t wait to spend more time with them
“Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32)
Oh God, may this summer be like the walk You shared with those two men after the resurrection. Like those men, I thought I knew enough about the Word, but I realize I am so lacking. Walk with me, Lord, and teach me.
I don’t know what it is. Whether it’s the familiar Washington weather, chilling with my sister, the abundance of green in Olympia, or even the fact that I can help my mom with the dishes again, I just can’t stop smiling since I got back
I coulda, woulda, but I did not shoulda and did not want to. Thank God for that.
More reflection: I feel like I’ve forgotten how to listen. I ask so many questions and anticipate quick responses, but there’s more focus on making that small talk rather than hearing and absorbing what people are saying. I’m finding myself forget so many details on a regular basis. “Summer plans?” “When are you leaving?” “Where are you from again?” “Wait what are you doing this summer?” And repeat. Thanks to a friend, E.S., for commenting on my forgetfulness. And Lord, open not just my ears to hear but also my heart to listen.
Last night was such a blessing (disguised as a night of heavy debauchery). Peer mentors took me and another mentee out for dinner and drinks and the night ranged from “un poco De skyy” to “you guys were the best mentees” to advice about love, success, and happiness. So sad that these particular seniors are leaving but so happy I was part of their stays at Penn. With people like these in my life, it’s hard not to feel loved.
Texting my good friend, Micha, about the summer and just catching up a little in general. Penn’s been great, phenomenal, amazing, but also lonely. It’s such a blessing to know that I have such wonderful people to see when I come back home. Makes this world feel so much warmer and more familiar.
Officially breaking my fast this Friday. Can’t believe it
A church like this can redefine one’s idea of community. This one’s to Kunhe and Rachel; thanks for showing such selfless kindness and support during finals and the year throughout!
But this time, I’m not so burdened. I’m seeing all that we’ve done and been through and laughing, grateful for all of it.
http://kotaku.com/mind-blowingly-perfect-water-simulation-is-now-a-realit-477865450
The fruition of a conversation I had walking around the lake this summer. People have not only considered the physics of water, but have imitated it so closely to make these realistic simulations. Crazy stuff
Michael Chabon, The Mysteries of Pittsburgh
Submitted by deadlypoisonedcandy.