5-19-08

Solar cells covered in microscopic nanowire hairs could greatly improve the efficiency of photovoltaic panels.

Neil Gaiman mentioned today that he wrote a short story on a postcard as part of an auction for charity. He and 12 other authors (including JK Rowling) will have their cards auctioned on June 10th, and the next day the stories will be available for everyone to read at Waterstones. The stories will also eventually be published along with 3 contest winners from the general public (2 adults and 1 child).

Researchers have discovered that some plants can change the weather.

A new vaccine is now available for people over 60 who have had chicken pox. It should prevent them from developing shingles.

SciFi Wire has an article about cast changes in the upcoming season of Stargate Atlantis. Robert Picardo (Woolsey) and Jewel Staite (Dr. Keller) move from recurring to regular cast. Paul McGillion (Dr. Beckett) will be back for 5 episodes. Contrary to some earlier reports, Dr. Weir won't make an appearance, and this may be the final season for Ronon.

There's a rumor that the CW is considering picking up Moonlight. This is just a chance, but I'll watch for details and let you know what happens.

SF Signal has reviewed all the Hugo short fiction nominees. Have you read them yet? Do you agree with them? Just a reminder that we have until July 7th to read all these and vote.

SF Universe has longer descriptions of Fringe and Dollhouse (the new genre shows coming from Fox) if you are curious. io9 also has a trailer for Dollhouse.

Do you want to see a preview for the new US version of Life on Mars? From this it looks like a pretty straight translation. Hard to tell if it will be good or bad, but I'll give it a shot.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid769343686/bctid1556072271

DVRs for tonight:
5pm Greek
8pm Big Bang Theory & Bones (season finales)
830 How I Met Your Mother (season finale)
9pm 2.5 Men & House (season finales)