Where We Can Go With Augmented Reality: The Spartan Gamified World Revisited in SIGHT

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With Google Glasses and other potential competing products coming into the limelight, the technological consciousness is going to slowly merge with the expectations set for us by science fiction books and futurist designs. To understand how one element of augmented realitythe ability to overlay UIs and instructions on visioncan affect our social interaction and our skills we need look no further than current video games and the concept of gamification.

Gamification is the process of giving game-like attributes to everyday goals, its used by websites to attract and retain visitors with numbers and fill-up-bars, its used by school teachers to gain compliance from students, and its even used by some corporations to help train and refresh the skills of workers. With a project like Google Glass it wouldnt be too difficult to project game-like interfaces onto everyday tasks and train a person to do something they otherwise would need a hands-on instructor to do.

A recent epic videoSIGHT by Eran May-raz and Daniel Lazoon Vimeo brings to mind the varied ways augmented reality could totally reconstruct our lives using augmented reality, futuristic sensor technology, and gamification (plus, no end of creepy cyberpunk dystopia to close off the social commentary.)

Watch the video below and think about how this will shape the consumer experience.

Apps become reality; physicality is more than just what we see but what we know

Right now, we have the nascent designs in our grasp for people to download apps to smartphones that enable them with instant information retrieval, extremely accurate GPS, and even search systems that look at peer groups to help decide what might be good to eat. Ive even looked into numerous advantageous technologies that could be combined into Google Glass to make a wearers life not just easier, but more interesting.

With an augmented reality system, hands-free manipulation of data would be only an eye-flick away as would a great deal of information otherwise locked away in a book, computer, or smart phone. Forget fingertips, being able to more quickly bring information into a heads-up-display or access it via the visual field could greatly speed up a persons capability to respond to an adapting information scenario (dating is a good one; although a rather antisocial science fiction social commentary here.)

I imagine that people would use things like Google Glass to convey information about interesting subjects, foment conversations about the news and lifestyle based on opinion and Wikipedia and grease our ability to better understand one anotherrather than just manipulate one another. The possibility of using emotion-recognition or other deep-sensor technology with Pick-Up-Artist tactics, of course, will likely become vogue enough to generate some wariness but we dont need technology to ruin the dating scene for us we do that by ourselves well enough already.

SIGHT does an excellent job of introducing multiple app-driven technologies that suggest a framework for how augmented reality might surpass our current experience. Replace television sets, instruct on how to chop a cucumber, provide directions to restaurants, and even drive communication across great distances.

Technologies like Google Glass are still in their infant stages from this sort of future; but what we do with it is being decided right now.

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Where We Can Go With Augmented Reality: The Spartan Gamified World Revisited in SIGHT

Religious freedom in Egypt "quite tenuous": Clinton

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WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Religious freedom in Egypt appears to be "quite tenuous" and its government has failed to aggressively prosecute perpetrators of sectarian violence, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on Monday. Clinton made the comment as the State Department released a report that found a marked deterioration in religious freedom in China, where official interference with ...

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Religious freedom in Egypt "quite tenuous": Clinton

GKN Aerospace Wins Long Term Exhaust System Contract for KC-46A Tanker

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GKN Aerospace has been awarded a long term contract by Boeing Commercial Aircraft Company to supply the exhaust system for the United States Air Force KC-46A tanker. This system, comprising a complex acoustic nozzle and plug assembly, has provided excellent performance throughout a number of years in service on the 767 and versions of the 747. First deliveries for the KC-46A will take place in 2013 and continue through to the end of 2028 with manufacture and assembly taking place at the GKN Aerospace ASTECH facility in Santa Ana, CA, USA.

To produce this exhaust system, GKN Aerospace will use a proprietary resistance welded honeycomb panel process developed specifically to solve challenges in the exhaust environment. This technology overcomes the problem of voids common with brazed processes. It creates a lightweight stainless steel structure with exceptional strength and durability, extending engine performance and reducing noise.

Kevin Cummings, CEO - GKN Aerospace, North America comments: This work package extends our established relationship with Boeing into the next generation USAF tanker programme. We work closely with Boeing providing structural airframe components and assemblies, winglets, transparencies and ice protection systems for aircraft across their product portfolio. Applying our market-leading resistance welding technologies on the 767 and KC-46 continues the expansion of our relationship and introduces innovative process technologies.

GKN Aerospace is the worlds largest producer of systems and assemblies using resistance welded honeycomb technology and a market-leader in the supply of complex metal and composite structures for the aviation sector.

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GKN Aerospace Wins Long Term Exhaust System Contract for KC-46A Tanker

Global Aerospace and Defense Industry Sluggish in 2011: Deloitte

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WASHINGTON, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --According to a recent report by Deloitte, the financial performance of the global aerospace and defense (A&D) industry generally fell in 2011. Despite the uncertainty in the defense sector, the report found that the global A&D industry as a whole grew in 2011 to $681 billion, posting a sluggish revenue gain of 2.3 percent, compared to 2.5 percent in 2010.

The study, titled "2011 Global Aerospace and Defense Industry Performance Wrap-Up," reveals that reported operating earnings for the global industry decreased 3.1 percent, as did reported operating margins (down 5.3 percent), free cash flow (down 13.3 percent), and reported operating earnings per employee (down 5.2 percent). Despite this decline, the book to bill (BTB) ratio, an indicator of future revenue growth, increased 17.4 percent, primarily as a result of higher sales of new fuel-efficient commercial aircraft, according to the study.

"With the defense segment comprising about two-thirds of the global A&D industry, our report suggests that ongoing defense outlook uncertainty is likely to impact overall financial performance in 2012," said Tom Captain, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP and global and U.S. aerospace & defense leader. "However, the findings indicate that defense spending is increasing in countries such as India, China, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil as a result of growing wealth and in light of mounting national security concerns."

The report also shows that financial performance differences between the commercial and defense segments widened in 2011; commercial revenues grew 10.1 percent while defense revenues declined by 3.3 percent. Contributing to the commercial revenue growth were record production levels of large commercial aircraft and increases in demand for aircraft services. The study found that Defense revenues were likely impacted by decreasing defense budgets, competing domestic priorities, weaker than expected economic performance in the western world, and the drawdown of forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

There are also financial performance differences between A&D companies based in the United States and Europe. According to the study, the industry achieved 3.3 percent revenue growth in the U.S. in 2011, while it grew less than one percent (0.8 percent) in Europe. Significantly, operating earnings in Europe fell by 21.6 percent and increased 2.9 percent in the U.S. Reported return on invested capital was 20.7 percent and 8.7 percent in the United States and Europe, respectively. Furthermore, the U.S. employee productivity outpaces Europe with operating earnings per employee up 1.9 percent. Conversely, Europe saw this important metric fall 25 percent.

Tier one (5.1 percent), two (11.1 percent), and three (29.1 percent) A&D suppliers, many of which serve the commercial aerospace segment, reported revenue increases; while original equipment manufacturers experienced revenue growth of just 0.1 percent.

To access the 2011 Global Aerospace and Defense Industry performance wrap-up, go to http://www.deloitte.com/manufacturing.

About Deloitte's Aerospace & Defense GroupDeloitte's Aerospace & Defense Group (A&D) sector focuses on the top issues facing the industry. Deloitte A&D practitioners have deep industry experience and are actively involved in various segments of the industry, including: M&A, advanced technology programs, airplane program launches, and acquisition reform and economic assistance packages. For more information about Deloitte's Aerospace & Defense group, please visit: http://www.deloitte.com/us/a&d.

As used in this document, "Deloitte" means Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Please see http://www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting.

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Global Aerospace and Defense Industry Sluggish in 2011: Deloitte

DENR-IX joins the 38th National Nutrition Month (NNM) Celebration

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by H. A. Ascura/DENR-IX PR

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region -IX, has conducted various activities in support to the observance of the National Nutrition Month (NNM) pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 491 or the Nutrition Act of the Philippines with this years theme Pagkain ng gulay ugaliin, araw-araw itong ihain.

Regional Executive Director (RED) Arleigh J. Adorable led his officials and employees in attending a Nutrition Seminar which was held last July 9, 2012 at the Office of the RED Covered Court DENR, Sta. Maria, Pagadian City, Zamboanga Del Sur.

Nutrition Officer III Nimfa D. Ekong from the National Nutrition Council- Zamboanga City was the resource speaker. According to her, the month long observance aims to increase vegetable consumption; promote vegetable gardening as a source of additional food and income; and increase demand for vegetables can help local vegetable farmers.

In her power point presentation, Ms. Ekong explained the rationale of the NNM theme: 1) Filipinos are eating less and less vegetables. Based on food consumption surveys conducted by Dept. of Science & Technology (DOST) Food & Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), Filipinos on average are eating less and less vegetables per day in the last three (3) decades. From 145 grams per day of vegetables in 1978, consumption has decreased to 110 grams per day in 2008. Based on the 2012 NNM Talking Points, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends eating a minimum of 400 grams of vegetables and fruits per day which is equivalent to five (5) servings per day with 3 servings of vegetables per day. 2) Vegetables as part of a healthy diet can help prevent major non-communicable disease. Adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables reduces the risk for cardiovascular diseases, stomach cancer, and colorectal cancer. 3) Consumption of vegetables can help micronutrient deficiencies. Eating a variety of vegetables together with fruits ensures an adequate intake of most micronutrients, dietary fibers and a host of essential non-nutrient substances. 4) Having vegetable gardens in the household can increase supply and availability of vegetables for families. Only 67.7% or 7 out of every 10 households had vegetable gardens or fruit trees based on the 2008 National Nutrition Survey.

Ms. Ekong made mention that malunggay plant (from its roots, barks, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds) contains more nutritional value compared to other vegetables. She also shared technique on how to cook vegetables mixed with malunggay fruits.

The display of NNM streamer, press release as well as the conduct of radio program and guesting over DXKP-RPN in Pagadian City were undertaken by DENRs public affairs office to raise public awareness and participation while the livehood training-workshop was sponsored by DENRs Gender and Development (GAD) in cooperation with Technical Education and Skills Development Administration (TESDA) -ZDS Provincial Office.

For the latest Zamboanga City and Philippine news stories and videos, visit ZamboTimes.com

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DENR-IX joins the 38th National Nutrition Month (NNM) Celebration

New School Cafeteria Guidelines Make A Healthier Back-To-School Season

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SANTA MONICA, Calif., July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- When students arrive at school this fall, their cafeteria will look a lot different. School meals must meet new federal nutrition standards requiring more whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and less sodium and calories, as detailed in an article in the July issue of Food Nutrition & Science.

"With the ever-increasing childhood obesity rates, the government had to step in and help guide schools to provide healthier options for children," says Phil Lempert, founder of Food Nutrition & Science and CEO of The Lempert Report and SupermarketGuru.com. "I support these efforts and am confident the better foods will not only help their bodies, but their minds too."

Every school meal will come with fat free or 1percent milk to provide the calcium kids need for strong bones, and lunch entrees will meet strict limits on saturated and trans fats. Cafeterias will serve a wider variety of vegetables each week, including vitamin packed choices like broccoli, sweet potatoes and red pepper strips, and more fiber-rich beans and legumes.

Also in this month's issue results from a recent study from the Economic Research Service that shows price increases for some high-calorie foods and beverages can lead to lower children's BMI (body mass index). According to the study, a 10 percent increase in the price of sodas lowered BMI .42 percent over a year, and that same increase in the price of 100 percent juices and starchy vegetables lowered BMI .3 percent over a year.

Among other informative articles, this month also includes an interview with Deb Roussou, author of 350 Best Vegan Recipes, and Jerry Lynch, chief sustainability officer for General Mills.

About Food Nutrition & Science With more than 26,000 readers, Food Nutrition & Science is the only monthly newsletter created for all food industry players to communicate about the safest, most efficient and healthiest ways to get food to our plates. Founded by food industry analyst and CEO of The Lempert Report and SupermarketGuru.com Phil Lempert, Food Nutrition & Science provides readers analysis and offers discussions on all issues relating to the food industry. To learn more about healthy foods, trends, recipes and maneuvering the supermarket download "Smarter Shopping with Phil Lempert," a state-of the-art mobile app available at iTunes.

For more information or to subscribe to Food Nutrition & Science, please visit http://www.FoodNutritionScience.com.

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New School Cafeteria Guidelines Make A Healthier Back-To-School Season

City, school longevity pay tops $9M

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Home > News City, school longevity pay tops $9M By Thor Jourgensen / The Daily Item

LYNN Taxpayers paid $9.2 million in longevity pay extra money given to most city employees after theyve worked a certain number of years in 2012, according to city records.

That amount included $6.4 million paid in longevity to 1,254 school employees last year, according to School Business Administrator Kevin McHugh. Another $2.7 million paid to almost 600 other city workers represents a three-fold increase in longevity pay during the last 20 years.

McHugh said about 730 school employees do not receive longevity.

Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy said city employees receive the money regardless of how theyve performed.

It is a perk, a bonus paid not for any merit, said the citys chief labor contract negotiator.

School Committee member Rick Starbard agreed, saying longevity awards all city and school workers.

You can be a super teacher or a crappy teacher, come five years, youre getting longevity, he said.

Described in a statement from Police Association President William Sharpe as wage increases that are tied to the number of years an employee remains employed..., longevity has been a half century-old staple of municipal bargaining contracts, according to union officials.

I see longevity as an incentive for qualified, experienced employees to remain on the job, said Roger Ennis, the citys chief inspector and president of a city union representing about 50 municipal supervisors and school nurses.

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DNA damage in roofers possible cancer link

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AURORA, Colo., July 29 (UPI) -- Roofers and road workers who use asphalt are exposed to high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which may up their cancer risk, U.S. researchers say.

Dr. Berrin Serdar of the Colorado Cancer Center and the Colorado School of Public Health said roofers have higher PAH blood-levels after a shift than before and that these high levels of PAHs are linked with increased rates of DNA damage, and potentially with higher cancer risk.

"We've known for some time that roofers and road workers have higher cancer rates than the general population, but we also know roofers have a higher rates of smoking, alcohol use and higher ultraviolet radiation exposure than the general population, and so it's been difficult to pinpoint the cause of higher cancer rates -- was it due to higher PAHs or is it due to lifestyle and other risk factors?" Serdar asked.

Serdar and colleagues at the University of Miami, studied 19 roofers from four work sites in Miami-Dade County and tested their urine -- before and after a 6-hour shift.

After acute exposure to hot asphalt, PAH biomarkers were elevated and were highest among workers who didn't use protective gloves and workers who reported burns.

"We can't say with certainty that exposure to hot asphalt causes roofers' increased cancer rate," Serdar said in a statement, "but that possibility is becoming increasingly likely. Hot asphalt leads to PAH exposure, leads to higher PAH leads to higher PAH biomarkers, leads to increased DNA damage."

The study was published in the British Medical Journal Open.

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DNA damage in roofers possible cancer link

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Federal DNA backlog remains clear since September 2010

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MANATEE -- DNA of Delmer Smith, whose murder trial begins with jury selection at 9 a.m. today, was not found in the Terra Ceia home of Kathleen Briles who was allegedly bludgeoned to death Aug. 3, 2009 with an antique sewing machine.

His DNA was, however, found in four Sarasota homes he allegedly robbed, attacking the women who lived there, prior to Briles' death.

The only problem was police could not identify the person behind the attacks because the DNA was not logged in the FBI's database.

Smith's DNA was taken in March 2008 while he was serving time in federal prison for a bank robbery. It was placed with thousands of other DNA samples waiting to be processed by the FBI.

When the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office sent off the DNA found at crime scenes on Feb. 22, March 7, March 14 and May 22, no matches were found.

Smith was first identified as the suspect in more than 10 home invasion robberies in Manatee and Sarasota counties after he got into a bar fight in Venice. Because he was on probation police searched his belongings, finding several items allegedly stolen in the previous home invasions.

Smith's DNA was fast-tracked into the system and matched the samples found at the Sarasota crime scenes.

DNA does not play a role in the Briles' case, but local law enforcement agencies rely on it in many instances.

"We send DNA from crime scenes off for analysis all the time. It makes cases," said Manatee County Sher

iff Brad Steube.

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Federal DNA backlog remains clear since September 2010

Posted in DNA

Fruit Flies Light the Way for A*STAR Scientists to Pinpoint Genetic Changes that Spell Cancer

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Singapore, July 30, 2012 - (ACN Newswire) - By studying fruit flies, scientists at A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB) have successfully devised a fast and cost-saving way to uncover genetic changes that have a higher potential to cause cancer. With this new approach, researchers will now be able to rapidly distinguish the range of genetic changes that are causally linked to cancer (i.e. "driver" mutations) versus those with limited impact on cancer progression. This research paves the way for doctors to design more targeted treatment against the different cancer types, based on the specific cancer-linked mutations present in the patient. This study published in the prestigious journal Genes & Development could help advance the development of personalised medicinein cancer care and treatment.

The era of genomic sequencing has generated an unparalleled wealth of information on the complexity of genetic changes that occur as cancer develops and progresses. "Many genetic changes arise in cancer cells and changes continue to accumulate during the progression of disease to metastatic cancer[1]. The current challenge is to understand which of the many genetic changes are important drivers of disease progression" said Dr. Stephen Cohen, Principal Investigator at IMCB and team leader of this paper.

Though very different in many ways, fruit flies and humans share similarities in a remarkable two-thirds of their genomes. That is to say, many of the genes found in humans are also present in the flies. Similarly, various signalling pathways involved in tumour formation are also well conserved from fruit flies to humans. In fact, previous studies have shown that about 75 percent of known human disease genes have a recognisable match in the genome offruit flies[2].

Leveraging on their genetic similarities, Dr Hector Herranz, a post-doctorate from the Dr Cohen's team developed an innovative strategy to genetically screen the whole fly genome for "cooperating" cancer genes. On their own, theseare the genes that appear to be harmless and have little or no impact on cancer. But in fact, they cooperate with other cancer genes, so that the combination causes aggressive cancer, which neither would cause alone.

In this study, the team was specifically looking for genes that could cooperate with EGFR[3] "driver" mutation, a genetic change commonly associated with breast and lung cancers in humans. SOCS5, reported in this paper, is one of the several new "cooperating" cancer genes to beidentified through this innovative approach. Most of these new-found genes have yet to be identified as cancer genes in human or mouse models.

Said Mr Xin Hong, a PhD student and the co-first author of this paper, "We were very surprised by our finding because this it the first time that the Socs gene family is found to be linked to cancer. Previously it has only been associated with immunological disorders."

Dr. Cohen added, "Though these studies are in the early stages, they are very promising. Already, there are indications that levels of SOCS5 expression are reduced in breast cancer, and patients with low levels of SOCS5 have poor prognosis."

The IMCB team is preparing to explore the use of SOCS5 as a biomarker in diagnosis forcancer.

Said Professor Wanjin Hong, Executive Director of IMCB, "This study sheds light on the complexities of cancer genetics and paves the way to accelerate development of personalised medicine in cancer care. It is a fine examples of how powerful genetic approach using the fly model can reveal molecular mechanisms underlying human cancer. More importantly, it shows how fundamental research can have far-reaching applications for potential clinical benefits."

Notes for editor: The research findings described in this media release can be found in the 15 July 2012 issue of Genes & Developmentunder the title, "Oncogenic cooperation between SOCS family proteins and EGFR identified using a Drosophila epithelial transformation model" Hector Herranz[1,5], Xin Hong[1,2,5], Nguyen Thanh Hung[3], P. Mathijs Voorhoeve[3,4] and Stephen M. Cohen[1,2,6].

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Fruit Flies Light the Way for A*STAR Scientists to Pinpoint Genetic Changes that Spell Cancer

Dr. Mao’s Wellness Central: Cool Down With Salads This Summer Season

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The long, hot days of summer dont offer much encouragement for cooking in the kitchen over a hot stove. Instead, why not take advantage of the bounty of local seasonal fruits and veggies and cool yourself down with a fresh salad?

Salads are not only quick and simple to make, but with the right ingredients they can also bring you some serious health benefits. Start by choosing organic, locally-grown produce, which is packed with added nutrients and picked after it has ripened naturally. Studies regularly emerge about the hazardous effects of pesticides and herbicides used on commercial crops: cancer risk, inflammation, and reproductive imbalance, among other dangers. Pick food grown close to home: its better for your health, better for the environment, supports your local farmers, and has an unbeatable taste!

One item to note: Eating raw food all the time requires more energy for digestion and tends to put out the digestive fire, so dont forgo the stove altogether. As you will see below, many of these salads require some cooking as well.

1. Classic Beet Salad

Steam beets and slice into a salad of mixed greens and sliced avocado with a handful of pine nuts and walnuts. If you want to bulk up the salad, add crumbled soft tofu or shredded chicken.

What is this salad doing for you? This is an all-in-one anti-aging salad. Beets contain powerful nutrients that help protect against heart disease, birth defects, and cancer, especially colon cancer. The avocado and pine nuts are healthy fats and walnuts have omega-3 fatty acids, which bring heart health benefits.

2. Cooling Cucumber Salad

Thinly slice cucumbers, removing the peel if you prefer, and toss with red onions. Let this sit for 30 minutes, then top with apple cider vinegar mixed with Dijon mustard.

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Dr. Mao’s Wellness Central: Cool Down With Salads This Summer Season

Anatomy Of An Athlete @ Hunterian Museum

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The Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons (Lincolns Inn Fields) is another museum with a sporty-themed tie-in for the Olympics. The surgical wonderland has a small exhibition devoted to the physiology and anatomy of elite athletes. The show draws on work from theMedical Artists Association to show how medicine, surgery and exercise affect the competitors body. The artists usewatercolour, video and sculpture to represent a various sports and para-sports. A selection of artificial running feet used by paralympians will also be on display.

A series of events support the exhibition. A technology-themed day on 18 August lets you attempt to repair a damaged knee using anarthroscopy training simulator, or check how well youre walking on a gait analyser. On 19 September, a panel of medical experts discuss techniques to speed an athletes recovery from injury.

The Anatomy of an Athlete runs at the Hunterian Museum,35-43 Lincolns Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3PE until 29 September 2012 (openTuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm). Entrance to exhibition and events is free.

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Anatomy Of An Athlete @ Hunterian Museum

Grey's Anatomy Ex Files

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With Eric Dane the latest cast member to depart, John Byrne looks back on previous Grey's Anatomy stars who - for one reason or another - are no longer part of the Seattle Grace furniture.

Although it hasn't seen as many cast changes as its medical mega-star predecessor ER, Grey's Anatomy lost yet another regular following last Friday's announcement that Eric Dane was quitting his role as Dr Mark 'McSteamy' Sloan ahead of the show's ninth season.

A lot of the departures have been clouded in controversy - here are the six key ones during the show's sensationally successful eight seasons:

Katherine Heigl (Izzie Stevens)

When she left After spending much of season six working elsewhere, things came to a head when Heigl reportedly failed to show up for Grey's Anatomy on March 11th, 2010. She had apparently come to an agreement with Shonda Rhimes to release her from her contract with immediate effect. Her character had left Seattle after surviving cancer.

Why she left Heigl said that her departure was not about advancing her film career - which was moving along very nicely at the time - but that she wanted to focus more on her family.

How she's doing In January 2012, Heigl stated in an interview that she has asked the producers of Grey's Anatomy if she could return to the show to wrap up Izzie's storyine: "I've told them I want to," she said. "I want to see that girl take some power back." In her personal life, she and husband, inger Josh Kelley, adopted a second child in April 2012.

TR Knight (George O'Malley)

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Grey's Anatomy Ex Files

Stem cells used to treat sibling's cerebral palsy

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Mumbai, July 30 -- On Saturday, city doctors injected stem cells derived from the cord blood of a baby girl into the blood stream of her elder sister, who suffers from cerebral palsy./Sarah Burnerwala, 9, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when she was five months old. Her parents, Shabbir and Shammin Burnerwala, visited many hospitals to get her treated before they learnt about stem cell therapy ...

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Stem cells used to treat sibling's cerebral palsy

NASA is designing its first new spacesuit in twenty years

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With NASA looking to reinvent itself for possible missions to the Moon and Mars, work has begun on bringing the equipment in its aging inventory into the modern era to help facilitate those lofty goals.

A case in point is the new spacesuit that is being developed to replace the twenty-year old model that was first pressed into service back in 1992. Originally only meant for astronauts on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station, the spacesuit that the world over is used to seeing is both outdated and ill-suited for upcoming missions. Scientists and engineers at NASA have been hard at work developing a new prototype called the Z-1, which is undergoing heavy testing right now.

The z-1 Prototype Spacesuit and Portable Life Support System is a drastically different beast than the spacesuit it will replace. For starters, the z-1 has its own airlock. Called a rear-entry suit, the new design has an astronaut crawling into the suit from the back, near the top. This is done through a small, airtight hatch that has the ability to latch on to a docking terminal or other vehicle such as a smaller spacecraft or rover unit.

This entry method is said to be much more efficient since the suit itself will operate at the same pressures found in the larger space-borne habitats, cutting down on the amount of oxygen an astronaut will need to use to during EVA missions.

Along with the major changes mentioned above, the Z-1 is said to be much more flexible, something that every astronaut will jump for joy about. Working in zero-gravity is challenge enough, but having to deal with a bulky suit at the same time makes it a real challenge.

Of course, with NASA having no concrete plans regarding sending humans back to the Moon or further afield to the Red Planet, theres no word on when or if ever this suit will be pressed into service.

Read more at Gizmag

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NASA is designing its first new spacesuit in twenty years

NASA Langley offers rare look at Mars mission

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HAMPTON, Va. --

More than two dozen social-media users will get a unique look at NASA's latest Mars mission when they gather Friday at Langley Research Center.

The event is part of a NASA Social, which will simultaneously take place at six NASA centers across the country. The 30 people selected for Langley's social gathering will get briefings on the landing of the Mars Curiosity rover, participate in a question-and-answer session with scientists involved in the mission and view a number of the center's space projects.

The Curiosity rover, which is the size of an SUV and weighs about 2,000 pounds, is expected to touch down early Monday. Its mission is to discover whether the ingredients for life exist on Mars.

Langley scientists worked on the entry, descent and landing phase of the mission the so-called "seven minutes of terror" between when the spacecraft enters the Martian atmosphere at 13,200 mph and rover is deployed on the planet's surface as well as developing sensors in the craft's heat shield that will record heat and atmospheric pressure during the descent.

Michael Finneran, lead for social media at Langley, says the socials fit well into the space agency's outreach program. NASA has been using the gatherings formerly called tweetups to host thousands of social-media fans at shuttle launches and other events since 2009.

"We're trying to excite people, inspire them, educate them, inform them and tell them what they're getting for their taxpayer dollars," he said of the gatherings.

Finneran said the 30 participants were culled from more than 250 applicants who registered through NASA's main website. Langley attendees include an active-duty Marine, several educators and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle enthusiast. While many of the participants live in Virginia, some will be traveling from as far away as San Diego and Minnesota.

"We have people with a lot of different interests, but their one common interest is the interest in space," he said. "That's what brings them together."

Friday's social is the second for NASA Langley. A tweetup was held in November, when participants witnessed a splashdown test of the crew capsule for the next generation of U.S. manned space vehicles.

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NASA Langley offers rare look at Mars mission

NASA rover closing in on Mars to hunt for life clues

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida (Reuters) - NASA's Mars rover was on its final approach to the red planet on Sunday, heading toward a mountain that may hold clues about whether life has ever existed on Mars, officials said. The rover, also known as Curiosity, has been careening toward Mars since its launch in November. The nuclear-powered rover the size of a compact car is expected to end its 352 ...

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NASA rover closing in on Mars to hunt for life clues