on April 25, 2022
What is applied topology?
Space & NavigationApplied Topology: Seeing the Hidden Shape of Data Ever feel like you’re drowning in data? Like there’s a pattern somewhere, but you just can’t quite grasp it? That’s where applied topology comes in. It’s a fascinating field that uses the abstract world of topology – think shapes and surfaces – to make sense of complex
on April 25, 2022
Why is matrix multiplication o n 3?
Space & NavigationMatrix Multiplication: Why Does It Take So Long? (And Can We Make It Faster?) Matrix multiplication. It’s one of those things that hums away in the background of so many technologies we use every day. Think graphics in video games, the simulations scientists run, or even how neural networks learn. But have you ever stopped
on April 25, 2022
How much space is considered personal space?
Space & NavigationYour Invisible Bubble: Understanding Personal Space Ever feel like someone’s standing just a little too close? That’s your personal space talking! It’s that invisible bubble we all carry around, and it plays a huge role in how we interact with the world and how comfortable we feel. Back in the ’60s, an anthropologist named Edward
on April 25, 2022
How is the North Star always north?
Space & NavigationAlways North? The Story Behind the North Star Think about it: for ages, people have looked up at the night sky and found their way thanks to one trusty beacon—the North Star, or Polaris as the astronomy buffs call it. But have you ever stopped to wonder why it’s always there, hanging out in the
on April 25, 2022
Was Katherine Goble white?
Space & NavigationOkay, let’s talk about Katherine Johnson – a name you should absolutely know. Born Creola Katherine Coleman on a West Virginia morning in 1918, she wasn’t just good at math; she was a human supercomputer whose calculations helped launch America into space. Sadly, we lost her in 2020 at the grand old age of 101,
on April 25, 2022
What is a photosphere in astronomy?
Space & NavigationPeeking Behind the Sun’s Blinding Glare: Getting to Know the Photosphere Ever squinted at the sun (you shouldn’t, by the way!) and wondered what you’re actually seeing? Well, you’re mostly seeing a layer called the photosphere. It’s basically the Sun’s “surface” as we perceive it, but hold on – the Sun doesn’t have a surface