APOD had a very cool photo yesterday showing the near conjunction of the Andromeda galaxy and Comet Ikeya-Zhang. More of the photographer’s very cool pictures can be seen at http://www.skylook.net.
Remembering Columbia
Wow, it’s been a year since the Columbia space shuttle broke up on re-entry. I remember waking up that Sunday morning, turning on the news and seeing the first reports happening live during coverage of what was supposed to be the landing. I remember seeing footage of the shuttle, a bright light streaking across the sky with smaller lights falling from it, and thinking “Gee, that doesn’t look right”. And then learning that it really wasn’t right, hearing people saying that the shuttle had broken up. And then the days and months afterward, learning about the cause, about what happened and the reasons behind the tragedy. It seemed to me that many of the problems cited were very similar to what was supposed to have been learned from the Challenger accident.
Lots of people say the Space Shuttles are outdated and that something new is needed. But perhaps what’s really needed is a change in the management structure and culture at NASA.
Interview day
Today’s the day. The day of my wife’s med school interview. At this very moment, she’s probably somewhere being interviewed by a doctor, or med student trying to learn more about her and why she wants to be a doctor. I think she’ll do fine, and I think she’ll impress them enough to get in. She’s been working hard for this, and she’s been working hard to get prepared all week. With any luck, in a couple of weeks or so, I should find out if I’m married to a prospective doctor or not.
Body Challenge Week 3
Ok, week three is over, and I’m afraid I haven’t really made much progress into starting my exercise routine. None at all really. But I’ve managed to maintain 172 lbs (78 kg) at least. Still walking and climbing stairs wherever I go.
Friday Five
You have just won one million dollars:
1. Who do you call first?
Probably my wife, unless she was there with me when I win. Then I might call my sister or brother.
2. What is the first thing you buy for yourself?
The complete Babylon 5 series, Stargate SG1 series, and the Star Trek film series, all on DVD. And maybe a Trek 2300 with all the accessories.
3. What is the first thing you buy for someone else?
Probably the horse and Nissan Titan my wife wants.
4. Do you give any away? If yes, to whom?
Set up some scholarships for physics students at University of Alberta and donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association and American Diabetes Association.
5. Do you invest any? If so, how?
I think I’d sock away about half of it in various investments. I’d have to find a financial advisor to consult with, someone who came highly recommended by someone I trust.