George Smoot and Sean Carroll: Cosmic Inflation

March 16, 2008March 17, 2008 / chr1 / Leave a comment

If you’re interested in some ideas about the current state of cosmic inflation and Big Bang theory, check out recent Sean Carroll’s bloggingheads turn (~12 min). Recommended.

Also, George Smoot’s book, Wrinkles in Time is very readable and fun (like listening to a really interesting, smart friend) and gives a background to his COBE research and contributions to Big Bang theory. He had quite an adventure.

It’s a good way for novices to prevent from becoming cranks. Thanks to Mr. Carroll for sharing.

Tornadoes In Major Cities: Atlanta

March 15, 2008March 17, 2008 / chr1 / Leave a comment

This was yesterday, March 14th, 2008, in Atlanta where the Weather Channel is located. Here’s a good report, with links to video. I hope everyone is OK.

1. Don’t forget about Brooklyn, August 9th, 2007, article here. A reported F2.

2. Miami, May 12th 1997 (minor damage, F1). It’s not often you see a tornado among office buildings.

3. And I guess if you live in Oklahoma City, you get used to it.

Here’s the (F)ujita Scale. A really cool photo, the Atlanta tornado shrouded enough to inspire mystery.