#Ultra compact design

[martin-james2121]

DJI OSMO Pocket 3: Redefining the Way We Capture Life

In a world where every moment is a potential memory, capturing life's beauty has never been more important. Enter the DJI OSMO Pocket 3, the latest innovation from the renowned tech giant. This pocket-sized marvel promises to redefine the way we capture life's moments. From its compact design to its groundbreaking features, it is set to take videography to the next level. 

The DJI OSMO Pocket 3 is a game-changer in the world of videography, as it empowers users to capture life's moments with incredible ease and quality.  It's a pocket-sized marvel that redefines the way we capture the world around us and whose commitment to user-friendly interfaces and integration with mobile apps ensures that this camera is accessible to all.

Check out these details to understand the key features and advantages it possesses.

1. Ultra-Compact Design:

The OSMO Pocket 3's most striking feature is its size. It fits comfortably in your pocket, making it the ideal companion for travelers, vloggers, and adventure enthusiasts. Its compact design doesn't compromise on functionality, and it's ready to capture life's moments whenever inspiration strikes.

To Read More Click here...

[glorydesignsupholstery]

Fabric L-Shaped Sofa

Maximize Space & Style – Custom L-Shaped Couches by Glory Designs 🛋️ Elevate Your Living Space with a Perfect L-Shaped Couch! At Glory Designs, we specialize in custom L-shaped couches that combine comfort, elegance, and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious leather L-shape sofa, a cozy fabric sectional, or a space-saving modular couch, we bring your vision to life with premium…

[vmantras]

Motorola Razr 50 Ultra Review: A Modern Flip Phone

The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra is a modern reinvention of the iconic flip phone, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. Building upon the legacy of the Razr series, this device is an attempt to bring the flip phone into the modern era, offering top-tier performance, impressive displays, and a blend of unique features that set it apart from other flagship smartphones. In this review, we’ll…

[vijayakumar1004]

How to Automate Ultra Cleaning Your Home and Office with Narwal Robot Vacuum and Mop Comb

Imagine a smarter way to keep your home and office clean effortlessly. Experience a cutting-edge robotic machine, offering time-saving precision and accessibility. This technology integrates effortlessly into your life, ensuring pristine environments. Its versatile cleaning and design make it essential for a clutter-free. Absence of manual intervention showcases its advanced navigation and…

[carsthatnevermadeitetc]

AIM EVM, 2025. A new electric city car from the Nagoya-based engineering firm designed by SN Design Platform, a studio headed by Shiro Nakamura, Nissan's former design chief. The EVM's styling is inspired by Shisa (pictured), the guardian deity of the Okinawa province where it will go on sale in the summer before national sale begin. It is powered by a 19hp electric motor and has a range of 120 km (75 miles). Regulations for “Ultra-Compact Mobility” vehicles in Japan mean it can't be driven on the highway and is limited to 60 km/h (37 mph). The removable targa-style T-roof panels can be stored in the boot. AIM has an annual target of 1000 units with a starting price of ¥1,900,000 ($12,500).

[cryptid-catnip]

An Unnecessarily In-Depth Deconstruction of the Lore and Problematic Elements of HDG

Why did I make this fucking post. (TWs for discussions of imperialism, cultural genocide, and a mention of systematized sexual assault)

So, to preface, I am going to be pretty harsh when it comes to criticizing the setting and lore of HDG, but I do not give one iota of a shit if someone finds its more problematic elements hot. Hell, I myself have found quite a few of the more fucked stories hot.

Secondly, if you want to rebute this post, please refrain from using Thermian Arguments as much as possible. If you don't know what a Thermian Argument is, it was coined in this video by Dan Oslen. It's only a five-minute watch, but, if you can't be bothered, it details an increasingly common argument in fandom spaces which consists of rebuking problematic elements of media by using in-universe reasoning, despite the fact that everything in a story is there because the writer put it there.

With that out of the way, let's begin.

So, in a previous post of mine, I wrote that The Combine from Half-Life 2 are essentially the same archetype of sci-fi civilization as the Affini (ie, ancient, vast conquerors whose interstellar conquest is so ancient that not even they know where they're from), with the only difference that the Affini are to be seen as the heroes of the story because... well because the writers say so.

Now you may say "Callie! You stupid bitch! Life in the Compact is way better than that on Terra!" and, to that I say "That's a Thermian Argument."

GlitchyRobo (and basically all other HDG writers) made the conscious decision to have Terra be Super-Mega-Ultra-Death-Capitalism(TM) to serve as justification for the Affini's colonization of Terra.

And this opens up a massive can of worms, considering that the Affini canonically want all non-Affini to be Florets and believe that all non-Affini would be better off as Florets.

The reason I'm calling this a can of worms is because the Affini are so vast, so long-lived, both individually and societally, that there has to have been at least one society that was doing really well for themselves, and were crushed by the Compact, right?

As I've alluded to prior in this post, the Affini are a fundamentally imperialist entity and does not care what your opinion is on their interstellar conquest, now go get your mandated mindbreak implant.

I think it's fair to say that the Affini are a shining example of the Designated Hero trope, as for a civilization whose bread and butter is imperialism, cultural genocide and systematized rape, they ARE The Good Guys, because The Narrative says so. This isn't even hyperbole, nearly all of the Canon Guidelines and the Writing in HDG pages are "The Affini are the good guys and are always in the right and are 59 steps ahead of the Terrans and functionally and narratively invincible with awesome tits."

But special mention goes to this line which basically confirms the thing I said previously:

What if you feel okay on your own? What if you don't want the Affini Compact running the show? What if you're already a communist society and are doing your level best to ensure everyone gets what they need?

The Affini response will be, "That's okay, petal, you've done enough. We'll take it from here."

And this line, which is basically just there to handwave some of the grimiest elements of HDG:

(Discussions about systemic floret sterilization and comparisons to real life reproductive violence and eugenics are definitely overthinking it.)

Like, motherfucker, I'm not the one who wrote this implication into the story. It's not my fault you decided to do White Man's Burden IIIIIIIIINNNNNN SSSSSPPPPPAAAAAACCCCEEEE with the femdom plant aliens.

And this is not only wretched morally, but it's just bad fucking writing. It is the closest that comes to an actual rule in writing (unless, like other "rules" in writing, it exists in your story for the purpose of deconstruction): DO NOT HAVE IMMORTAL, ALL-POWERFUL PROTAGANISTS.

The Affini are written like the player character of "That Guy" in every RPG horror story ever, with them being essentially invincible and immortal (functionally and narratively), are portrayed as the good guys while conquering planets and brainwashing people.

Or, to put it another way, most HDG stories feel like pro-Compact propaganda written by and for the Affini.

I was going to end this post with a thing where I say, "well i don't really think any of the writers/fans think that this would be good in practice/irl, and they all know it's just wish fulfillment kinkfics", but I genuinely do not think that's true for many people.

The constant defense of the righteousness of the Affini Compact in the text itself, as well as the constant stressing in the fucking wiki, leads me to believe that many people just straight-up believe that they are in the right, and not just the purpose of being kinkfics, and that deeply fucking disturbs me.

[ecofear]

there’s literally like. so much empty space in the new change. i don’t understand why there’s so much empty space bordering the information. i don’t

like what the fuck is all this. u can compact this down so easily. it’s just wasted space and makes it so much larger than it needs to be. i don’t understand. it feels like bad ui design . even discord updated its ui to allow for ultra compact recently to save space . i can’t believe i’m saying discord is better at ui design but i am follow their damn example we don’t need ui that takes up an unnecessary amount of room not everyone has a phone bigger than their hand!!!!! make good use of the room you have you greedy FUCKS

[materialsscienceandengineering]

A research team at POSTECH, led by Professor Junsuk Rho (Departments of Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and the Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology), along with M.S./Ph.D. students Seokwoo Kim, Joohoon Kim, Kyungtae Kim, and Minsu Jeong (Department of Mechanical Engineering), has developed a novel multidimensional sampling theory to overcome the limitations of flat optics. Their study not only identifies the constraints of conventional sampling theories in metasurface design but also presents an innovative anti-aliasing strategy that significantly enhances optical performance. Their findings were published in Nature Communications. Flat optics is a cutting-edge technology that manipulates light at the nanoscale by patterning ultra-thin surfaces with nanostructures. Unlike traditional optical systems that rely on bulky lenses and mirrors, flat optics enables ultra-compact, high-performance optical devices. This innovation is particularly crucial in miniaturizing smartphone cameras (reducing the "camera bump") and advancing AR/VR technologies.

Read more.

[phos-phorus]

F1 x Neon Genesis Evangelion

Here are the different EVA unit descriptions for each team!!

1. EVA-00X “The Prototype” (Mercedes)

• Design: Silver and turquoise color scheme, resembling a cutting-edge prototype F1 car. Sleek, efficient, and heavily reliant on AI assistance, mimicking the real-life team’s focus on data and engineering.

>Special Features:

• Extreme Stability Control: Advanced aerodynamics prevent instability at high speeds.

• Energy Recovery System (ERS): Can temporarily boost movement speed or power output using stored energy.

• Adaptive Halo Shielding: A reinforced frame around the cockpit area, inspired by the F1 halo device, providing additional protection.

• Story Role: The “corporate” team. Mercedes has the most advanced Eva, but its reliance on AI creates tension. George struggles with imposter syndrome, while Lewis is the veteran trying to balance idealism with survival.

2. EVA-03V “Berserker” (Red Bull)

• Design: A deep blue, red, and yellow color scheme, sleek yet aggressive with sharp wing-like structures on its back and Bull horns adoring its head.

>Special Features:

• Overdrive Mode: When reaching critical damage, the EVA enters Velocity Mode for approximately 30 seconds where speed and power drastically increase at the cost of all power. The team is currently working on exceeding the 30 sec. mark.

• Active DRS Wings: Can adjust its wing structures mid-combat for high-speed maneuvers.

• Unpredictable Handling: Like a Red Bull F1 car, it thrives on an aggressive but controlled chaos approach.

• Story Role: Max’s Eva has a tendency to go Berserk unpredictably, often winning fights in brutal fashion but leaving him mentally drained. Checo struggles with the pressure of being his backup.

3. EVA-04R “The Scarlet Arrow” (Ferrari)

• Design: Red and black, featuring smooth, elegant curves and golden accents resembling classic Ferrari designs. A beautiful yet temperamental Eva, built for high speed and lethal precision but suffering from synchronization issues (aka, Ferrari’s real-life strategy blunders).

>Special Features:

• Ultra-Lightweight Chassis: Built for sheer acceleration, allowing for blistering speed.

• Emotionally Linked Core: The EVA’s performance is deeply tied to the pilot’s emotions—frustration and desperation can enhance its capabilities but may lead to unpredictable malfunctions.

• Overheating Issues: Similar to Ferrari’s reliability problems, this EVA is prone to mechanical failures under extreme stress.

• Story Role: The tragic heroes. Charles has a deep emotional bond with his Eva, but it often fails him at the worst times. Carlos is the pragmatic warrior, keeping them afloat despite Ferrari’s chaotic leadership.

4. EVA-07A “The Immortal” (Aston Martin)

• Design: Dark green with neon yellow accents, heavily armored but still sleek, resembling a fusion of a tank and a hypercar, specializing in high durability and counterattacks.

>Special Features:

• Regenerative Armor: Can withstand heavy damage and self-repair over time, making it incredibly durable.

• Grip Adaptation: The EVA’s feet have adaptive grip controls, allowing it to move effortlessly across different terrains.

• Ancient Core Synchronization: An older unit, yet inexplicably keeps up with the latest models due to the pilot’s (Nando’s) unmatched experience and having seemingly unbounded fortune.

• Story Role: Alonso, the immortal warrior, is an old veteran who’s seen it all and somehow always survives. Lance struggles to prove he belongs (gets told he only got into the Eva program because of his father and that he actually never was one of the chosen children)

5. EVA-05M “The Papaya” (McLaren)

• Design: Bright orange and blue, lightweight and compact. An experimental Eva excelling at ranged combat with a powerful energy rifle.

>Special Features:

• Adaptive Handling AI: The EVA constantly tweaks its movements for optimal combat efficiency, making it unpredictable to enemies.

• Hybrid Power Mode: Uses a combination of traditional energy cores and an advanced turbo boost system for short bursts of hyper-acceleration.

• Precision Over Power: Unlike other EVAs that rely on brute force, this unit specializes in tactical strikes, often falling behind to analyze before charging at the enemy.

• Story Role: The underdog team. Lando is talented but relies too much on the Handling AI, while Oscar adapts quickly to the high-stakes environment. They push each other forward, but McLaren’s leadership often lets them down.

6. EVA-08B “Phantom” (Williams)

• Design: Deep blue and white with sleek, minimalist lines. A lightweight, nimble Eva with enhanced agility, designed to outmaneuver rather than overpower its enemies. Lacks raw firepower but makes up for it with tactical precision and evasion.

>Special Features:

• Lightweight Carbon Fiber Frame: Focused on raw speed but fragile in direct combat.

• Experimental Jet Boosters: Gives it an edge in acceleration but has limited energy reserves.

• Legacy Core: One of the oldest Evangelion models, upgraded over time with modern enhancements.

• Story Role: The ultimate underdog team. Alex is an elite pilot trapped in an outdated machine, constantly pushing it beyond its limits. Logan struggles to prove himself, dealing with self-doubt as he watches others outperform him. Williams’ engineers work tirelessly, but their limited resources keep them on the back foot.

7. EVA-09H “The Beast” (Haas)

• Design: Black and white with red highlights, a brute-force EVA with a reinforced exoskeleton, built for durability and close combat.

>Special Features:

• Heavy Armor Plating: Takes extreme punishment but sacrifices agility.

• Twin Blades System: Uses dual energy weapons for raw offensive power.

• Unrefined Power Core: Prone to overheating and shutdowns in prolonged battles.

• Story Role: Haas functions as the scrappy backup, holding the line when stronger teams falter. Their Eva is not the fastest or most advanced, but it refuses to go down without a fight. Eva-09H is often deployed in desperate last stands, buying time for others to regroup or retreat. Nico is excellent at damage control and making the best of tough situations. Kevin embraces Eva-47’s brute force, his raw instincts make him unpredictable but sometimes reckless in high-stakes engagements.

8. EVA-10A “The Storm” (Alpine)

• Design: Metallic blue and pink, an elegant yet fierce EVA specializing in precision combat. A high-speed, high-maneuverability Eva, designed for close-quarters combat with plasma blades on each arm. However, its systems tend to overheat and malfunction under stress (side eye).

>Special Features:

• Adaptive Power Core: Balances attack and defense based on combat needs.

• Energy Blade Enhancements: Can channel its core energy into plasma-based weapons (blades).

• High-Altitude Maneuvering: Optimized for aerial and vertical combat.

• Story Role: The dysfunctional duo—Ocon and Gasly are constantly at odds, refusing to work together even when survival is at stake. Their inability to synchronize properly leads to repeated failures, yet somehow, they scrape by.

9. EVA-11V “Golden Child” RB’s Experimental „golden Child“ EVA (VCARB)

• Design: Black and gold, a flashy, aggressive EVA designed for showmanship and performance. A hyper-aggressive, speed-focused Eva that sacrifices durability for extreme agility. Think of it as an F1-style ninja, striking fast before dodging away (In theory)

>Special Features:

• Instant Torque Boosters: Allows rapid acceleration but drains power quickly.

• Counter-Attack Mechanism: Absorbs kinetic energy and redirects it into high-powered strikes.

• Unstable Synch Ratio: Potential for extreme power spikes but hard to control.

• Story Role: The EVAs main goal is to search for young, new, drivers whose sync rate exceeds the „normal“ average. Yuki is a hotheaded, instinctive fighter, sometimes reckless but always fearless. Daniel provides experience and charisma, trying to keep things fun even in the face of disaster. Their Eva is prone to system failures due to its lightweight and experimental structure.

10. EVA-12S “Specter” (Stake F1/Sauber)

• Design: Chrome silver with black and green highlights, a futuristic and experimental EVA with advanced cloaking technology which often needs recalibrating which can take up to multiple days or even weeks due to employee shortage.

>Special Features:

• Liquid-Metal Armor: Can shift its form slightly for minor shape adjustments mid-combat.

• Silent Mode: Cloaking technology which works kinda like a chameleon (its always a gamble (ha) if it actually works tho) and Reduces energy signatures to avoid detection.

• Story Role: Eva-79 is designed for hit-and-run tactics, intelligence gathering, and long-range support. Its stealth capabilities make it a valuable asset in ambush operations, striking from the shadows before vanishing into the chaos. Calm, methodical, and precise, Valtteri excels at tactical combat. He leverages Eva-12S’s agility to control engagements, striking from unexpected angles and retreating before enemies can react. Zhou is skilled at reading battlefield conditions and adjusting his approach. His ability to execute last-second dodges and counterattacks makes him a dangerous opponent in duels but in disadvantage against multiple targets.

[swedishjapanese]

Cross Stitch 2025: 5 More Reasons to Start

"A hobby a day keeps the doldrums away" ~ Phyllis McGinley

Continuing from my previous post, I share five more reasons you should start cross stitching in 2025...let's go! 🔥

In a second nutshell, cross stitching is:

1. Broad.

Not a boring broad, but broad in a way that allows for a wide variety of pattern options. There are so many wonderful designs out there to choose amongst! From vintage to modern, quirky to classic, or dramatic to demure, you may just erupt in a tizzy trying to decide which project to start next.

2. Flexible.

Whether you are just starting your journey or are a seasoned stitcher, cross stitching offers flexibility. You may choose to start with a simple pattern or a complex one. You may also choose to stitch small, even micro designs; or, opt for the challenge of an ultra-large pattern.

3. Versatile.

Although you may finish a project and think "...great, now what do I do with it?", there are a plethora of finishing possibilities. A few examples include framing, hooping, plaques, paper art, tags, bookmarks, etc. A little creativity with completed works goes a long way!

4. Compact.

Not only is cross stitch portable, it is also compact in storage. I love the ease at which I can store my stitching stuff. It helps me stay focused on the project while not loosing sight of an organized space.

5. Meditative.

We live in a complex, chaotic world. Cross stitching helps slow the mind and breath, easing the restless soul. Anything which serves our mental health while adding beauty to our everyday lives is worth the time and investment.

Hope you consider starting this, or any new positive and productive hobby, in 2025! Cheers 🎉

Please visit my shop for cross stitch pattern pdfs and more!

🌸 https://swedishjapanese.etsy.com 🌸

[glorydesignsupholstery]

Leather L-Shape Couch

Maximize Space & Style – Custom L-Shaped Couches by Glory Designs 🛋️ Elevate Your Living Space with a Perfect L-Shaped Couch! At Glory Designs, we specialize in custom L-shaped couches that combine comfort, elegance, and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious leather L-shape sofa, a cozy fabric sectional, or a space-saving modular couch, we bring your vision to life with premium…

[transparentgentlemenmarker]

On appelle ça une secouette à singe.

Rocks à partir de 9 690 incarne la Sustainable Urban Mobility (mobilité urbaine durable). La citadine électrique zéro émission, au design compact et élégant, peut transporter deux personnes.

Propre, intelligente et sans émissions

Mobilité durable

Tu veux te sentir libre de tes mouvements, et de manière durable si possible? Avec notre citadine électrique, c’est possible. 

Jusqu’à 75 km d’autonomie, tu sais exactement jusqu’où tu veux rouler aujourd’hui. Grâce à l’autonomie de la Rocks, allant jusqu’à 75 km, tu es indépendant et mobile.

100 % en seulement 4 heures le câble de recharge est toujours à bord et compatible avec toute prise standard. En 4 heures*, ta citadine électrique est déjà entièrement rechargée.

*Le temps de charge varie en fonction de la température de la batterie, de son âge, des cycles de charge et de décharge et de la version de la batterie. Exactement ce qu’il te faux, décontractée à l’extérieur. Sur le plan visuel aussi, la nouvelle Rocks sait s’affirmer - avec ses dimensions ultra compactes, l’Opel Vizor emblématique et ses portières antagonistes. La nouvelle Rocks a de la place pour tout ce qu’il faut - tes sacs après une virée shopping, ton copain ou ta copine. 

[cf8wrk4u-us]

Across Space and Prime

Part 2: New Faces and Familiar Names

"-allow me to introduce myself" he stated stretching out his dark servo in a peaceful motion "I am Optimus Prime"

.

.

.

A stark culture difference between humans and Cybertronian is the fact that for the later, having the same designation as another individual was incredible rare if not unheard of.

Imagine if there were two bots named Warpath? Or Preceptor? Or even Ultra?

That be too confusing and cause a good number of problems.

Not that it's never happened before, but these were written off as incompetence done by facility guardians and Boot-Camp trainers.

 And as far as Optimus had know his trainer Kup and given him a name all of his own.

No one should have had it, no one.

So how? Why was there a great bot in front of him that just addressed himself by his name.

 Optimus was interrupted by his thoughts when he heard Sentinel give a mean snort.

"Oh really? Your Optimus Prime"? he said, the anxious stare he had at the face of this large mech disappeared and replaced with a nasty sneer "Right and I'm a Herald of Primus"!

 The larger bot looked taken aback and moved slightly back away from the group.

 "Sentinel-" Optimus whispered urgently but his fellow Prime just kept going.

 "Listen impersonating a Prime is a serious offence against High Command" he said placing both servos on his hips "Even if it is a disgraced one at that"!

  Optimus cringed as he saw the looks of shock and outrage grow on their faces.

"Sentinel"! he hissed and immediately pulled the other to face him.

  "What"? Sentinel demanded "You may be some maintenance bot, but you still hold the title of a Prime, not anyone could just use that name so freely"

Optimus tried really hard not to gnash his denta in frustration "I don't think that's the case though"

"Oh," replied Sentinel skeptically "And why is that"?

 The other Prime shook his head "I don't know but there not acting like their lying" before adding "Besides, why would any bot try to impersonate a no name bot like me"?

Sentinel face relaxed a bit from being called correct, till Optimus added this next part.

"In ether case, can you please not try to antagonize them"

 "I'm not antagonizing them"! he growled

Optimus shook his head "Well your not exactly being polite to the bots that possible saved our lives"

 On the other side of the room the bots who had brought them were having their own conversation. 

"Arcee" grunted the red and white bot "What kind of processor addled bots did you bring back to our base"?!

 "Hey, don't look at me"! said the femme defensively "Bumblebee was the one who insisted on bringing them"

<They weren't Cons> beeped the yellow bot, still in binary <You know what would have happened to them had they been left behind>!

Bumblebee.

Hearing the mechs full name it was then that Optimus took a more detailed look at the bot.

The same name, the same paint-job, yet so different.

His Bumblebee was a minibot that barely reached his waist, his plating was blockier and more compact, with a helm that carried two barely visible horns, and a glossa that spoke almost none stop. But outside the yellow of his paint job this Bumblebee easily would have toward over his teams minibot. The mech was easily the size of him and Sentinel, his plating more armored. Circular but at the same time reinforced, with many of the wires and joints slightly exposed within the seams yet protected by the other shell of the metal around it. Metal that looked far stronger and sturdier than any civilian frame would have. Along with that, two yellow doorwings that made him think of Praxian citizens he had seen back when he still was at the Academy at Cybertron.

Than there was his use of binary code instead of his own vocalizer.

 While there were mechs out there who choose not to speak as much, using code was often something reserved only for when a bot needed to keep their message private pr if they no longer had any use of their vocalizer.

A pit grew in Optimus stomach.

Loss of use of the vocalizer were usually the results of ether rare cases of deformations within the system, accidents, or battles....

Optimus took another good look at the bots around him.

 Outside of Arcee and the red and white bot (which Optimus was sure he could make a pretty good guess of) the mechs around him were easily at the scale of warrior class type mechs. And with weapons equipped into their bodies much like warframe even, if the blue of their eye lights didn't obviously state them as Autobot.

  Optimus then pipped up a question "If its not too much trouble, could we please use one of your central computers"

The red and white bot sent a fiery glare in his direction "Let a bunch of unknow bots put their servos and some of our crucial equipment"? he stated "I don't think so"

"Then just one of your smaller monitors then" said Optimus "I just need to access the planets network".

 "I said that's not happening"! growled the mech

"Please! Our readers our down, as well as our commlinks, we have no idea where we are, I simply want to confirm something-"

The red and white bot gave an even fiercer look.

"And I'm saying I'm not readily assisting a group of strange mechs, especially those who are willingly accompanied by a Decepticon"! 

He jabbed a metal digit at the direction of the femme who had been quite all this time.

But no sooner did they notice the Decepticon symbol on her color did their arms changed into the lethal blasters from earlier.

  "A Con"?! shouted the large green mech named Bulkhead "Slag it! And we brought them right in"!

Blackarachnia took a defensive position and as the solder class bots approach them.

   "She isn't a threat/She's not with us"! shouted both Optimus and Sentinel.

Blackarachnia snorted "Goodness! I feel so protected"!

 Optimus threw an unhappy look at both the femme and his fellow Prime before looking at the bots in front of him, under their mistrustful stares he raised his hand in a peaceful manner.

"We don't mean you any harm, we are not affiliated with the Decepticons, we simply wish to try to establish where we are" he said "If you could allow me to look up a name, I would greatly appreciate that"

  The red and white mech spoke up "We are not offering assistance to-"

"Please, Ratchet"

The mech looked startled before narrowing his optics.

"How do you know my name"?

Optimus gave him a sad smile "Your an experience medic in the field and despite your less than perfect berth side manner your a bot who deeply cares for his patients" 

The mech was silent before he looked at the bot besides him, the other Optimus Prime.

  "Optimus"? he called

How strange was it to hear his own name but not a single optic was aimed at him but instead this large and powerful looking mech.

They looked at him for orders, for guidance, with absolute trust.

A look not expressed down the line from his own team till much later on their stay on earth.

This mech, this leader, who was now studying him.

Despite how intimidated he was of them, Optimus gulped before staring back at those ancient optics.

Locking with those optics Optimus found another difference between himself and the mech, that while the optics of his eyes glowed a bright blue behind the glass the eyes of the towers bot before him shone with a light all of its own. An ancient bright iris shining brightly among a depth of mechanics, both age and experience clear in them. He had been around older mechs such as Ratchet, and Ultra Magnus, even encountered Alpha Trion when he gave brief lectures at the academy.

But he never encountered optics like these.

Then something unexpected happen.

A small smile formed on the great mechs face before he turned to the medic besides him.

 "I see no harm in allowing this young Autobot to make a quick search" he stated.

 "Optimus" Ratchet tried to argue.

 "With you managing the devices of course Ratchet" stated the mech before looking at Optimus again "Though it confuses me how a mech never seen before by my team or seen with the Decepticons knows about this planet's networks, as arbitrary as they are".

  Sentinel then grasped his shoulder "Yeah! Why are you asking to use this shoddy organic network? We need to get access to the commlinks"!

He shrugged him off "There's something I have to confirm Sentinel"

Looking at Ratchet, this Ratchet, as he made his way to the monitors, he spoke to him.

 "Please look up the name Issac Sumdac".

The medic grumbled before typing.

Optimus was taken a back at not seeing the familiar face of the kindly scientist and father of his friend.

Instead were a list of several Issac Sumdac's, some with a link to a site called Some Social?

"Could you type Sumdac Systems, located in Detroit"? pressed Optimus. 

This didn't yield any results ether, only for the word Sumdac to be auto corrected to solar panel systems or even solar systems.

Hilarious if this didn't make Optimus an unsettling feeling in his optics, only to turn into straight horror when he noticed something in the far corner of the screen.

 "Well,"? gruffed Ratchet "Anything else"?!

But Optimus didn't answer.

"Optimus were wasting time" complained Sentinel "What even is this for"?

Sentinel paused though when he didn't hear a response from his fellow Prime.

 "Optimus"? he heard the questioning voice from Ratchet.

It was then the mech lifted his servo and pointed to the screen "Sentinel, the year states that the Earth month of this year is 2011..."

 Sentinel frowned at him confused "Yeah and"?

"When we left the year was 2101...."

His fellow Prime looked startled before saying "What does that mean"?

Optimus shook his head "Nothing good"

 "WHAT"! demanded Sentinel 

Blackarachnia strolled smoothly towards the pair.

"Oh, just tell him Optimus" she said "Sentinel has always been slow on the uptake"

It was noticeable that the other bots had noticed how he was being addressed.

  "Did you just call him....Optimus"? said Arcee bewildered.

Taking a deep intake he said "I believe I owe you an explanation"

The other Optimus, the other Prime, stared at him quizzically.

 "Yes, I believe so"

He nodded before saying "For starters, my given designation is Optimus Prime" the mech said, cringing a bit at the shocked faces the other bots gave him, but continued "And unfortunately I believe were far mor lost than we thought"

"Okay explain this to me again"? asked Bulkhead, this worlds Bulkhead.

It was interesting how despite the obvious differences, the sheer size of the new Bulkhead and the act he was armed with blasters, that they could still share the same wide eyed befuddled look.

"Our group experienced...an accident with our Transwarp generator" Optimus explained once more ", and I believe the resulted blast must have taken us from where we are, our version of the planet earth, and took us here"

The group had moved away from the monitor station and had gathered into a far more spacious area. Sentinel and Blackarachnia kept to Optimus side but no closer than they had to be. Optimus could see from the corner of his optics how Sentinel would give him anxious looks that he always tried to hide behind a scowling brow while Blackarachnia stood tense and giving sneers to anyone looking her way.

Optimus knew that maybe he should have mentioned that he, Sentinel, and his team were engaged in battle with Blackarachnia and the destruction of the Transwarp device was due part to her. But seeing how hostile the other Autobots had become at the apparent Decepticon, he didn't want anymore of an antagonistic view towards her. 

He felt slightly relieved that Sentinel didn't try to "correct" the story...yet. 

 "Another version of Earth"? said the version of Ratchet, his voice thick with skepticism "You can't really expect us to believe that"?

"I understand that's hard to believe" said Optimus "But multiverse theory is something scientist have contemplated as something possible" 

  "In theory" stressed Ratchet "But the idea of other universes other than our own is still seen as a supposition at best"!

Blackarachnia gave a low chuckle at that "You know what they say, a theory is only a theory till its proven true"

The medic sent a glare at her but the femme simply gave a small wave.

Optimus coughed "In ether case, after the blast me and my....associates found ourselves in that cave and eventually those Decepticons"

"What rotten luck" the other Bulkhead chuckled dryly "Waking up in a Con mining operation, good thing we saved your metal at the nick of time"

Sentinel who had been oddly quite spoke up.

"Those Decepticons" he said "They were mining energon"?

 A lot of the bots gave Sentinel a look that meant how foolish they found his question, like it should have been obvious.

But it wasn't.

Back in the beginning when Optimus and his team found themselves stranded on earth he had ordered Teletron 1 with its limited range to try and locate potential pockets of Energon. Only to not find any, leaving Optimus to assume that this was simply a planet that didn't contain this specific mineral. It was disappointing but since the oil found on earth was edible, he and his team didn't run the risk of starving.

But it seemed once more, with the addition of Energon and the absence of Issac and even Sari Sumdac,  that this version of Earth was far different than Optimus own.

 "With the war between the Autobots and Decepticons still persisting, the scouting and collection of Energon is a vital thing" said this world version of him, Optimus Prime. 

Wait...war?

Optimus could feel his mouth part in shock as the moisture of his intake disappeared.

"You are currently at war with the Decepticons"? he breathed out

The other him looked at him, slowly blinking before saying "You are not"?

Optimus shook his head "Our war with the Decepticons ended a million years ago"

The bots around him look at Optimus, their blue optics wide at his words.

With a pause the mech who shared his name spoke again "Currently we have endured war with the Decepticons for many long centuries" he stated "As of now we find ourselves on Earth, locked in deadly and intense combat over control of this world's supply of energon, which as you now is the fuel and lifeblood of Autobots and Decepticons alike" he then added "Even with the departure of Megatron we are still on defense against the other faction, but there is hope we can someday see an end of this war"

 "Megatron departure"? asked Optimus "Are you saying that Megatron is no longer here"

His mirror version closed his eye before saying "At our recent battle there was heavy amount of devastation done, one which I am not sure Megatron had the strength to leave unscathed." 

 Megatron was gone.

Since the battle on the Orion and his consequent revival back in Detroit Megatron felt like this impossible force to fight.

He always felt it was a wonder he and his teams were able to thwart him and his soldiers over and over again.

But now he was gone...it almost seemed impossible.

 "So with Megatron gone, whose the one running the show" Blackarachnia asked.

The blue femme narrowed her optics before sighing and saying "My guess is Starscream"

Blackarachnia let out an unhappy breath "Seriously, that screechy seeker"?

The Bulkhead of this world gave a small chuckle but stopped when Arcee and Ratchet shot him a look.

"Megatrons gone, great" said Sentinel in almost a bored tone "But is there a way your planning to help send us back to our world"?

Optimus was glad Sentinel seemed to believe him but he couldn't help but be embarrassed at his fellow Primes demanding tone.

  "Well, were currently in use of our own groundbridge and its Transwarp modulator" said Ratchet in a deadpan tone "And we have no spares or extra materials for use, certainly not in a way that would be strong enough to supposedly open gateways to other dimensions"

"Do you have any ships then"? asked Sentinel "If you're not able to help us I'm sure someone on Cybertron does"

Optimus was ready to apologize for his fellow Primes demands but was cut off guard by the somber almost pained expressions on their faces.

"...unfortunately me and my compatriots don't have any ships for use" said the other Optimus with some hesitancy.

"Than how soon can you contact someone from Cybertron? Maybe the Autobot Science Division"?

There was more silence and Optimus was starting to get worried.

 "We cannot contact Cybertron" Ratchet stated solemnly.

"Why not"?! Sentinel demanded "With Megatron gone, aren't you planning on calling in for more support to clean up the rest of these Decepticons? The Elite Guard"?

None of the bots seemed to want to speak, almost hiding something they knew would be devastating to the strangers before them.

But Sentinel had little patience for their hesitancy.

"Hello? Why isn't anyone answering me"?

Finally, his counterpart said in a quiet voice laced with old grief "There is no way to contact Cybertron, unfortunately, Cybertron no longer exist"

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA super pressure balloons return to New Zealand for test flights

NASA's Scientific Balloon Program has returned to Wānaka, New Zealand, for two scheduled flights to test and qualify the agency's super pressure balloon technology. These stadium-sized, heavy-lift balloons will travel the Southern Hemisphere's mid-latitudes for planned missions of 100 days or more.

Launch operations are scheduled to begin in late March from Wānaka Airport, NASA's dedicated launch site for mid-latitude, ultra-long-duration balloon missions.

"We are very excited to return to New Zealand for this campaign to officially flight qualify the balloon vehicle for future science investigations," said Gabriel Garde, chief of NASA's Balloon Program Office at the agency's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. "Our dedicated team both in the field and at home has spent years in preparation for this opportunity, and it has been through their hard work, fortitude, and passion that we are back and fully ready for the upcoming campaign."

While the primary flight objective is to test and qualify the super pressure balloon technology, the flights will also host science missions and technology demonstrations. The High-altitude Interferometer Wind Observation (HIWIND), led by High Altitude Observatory, National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, will fly as a mission of opportunity on the first flight.

The HIWIND payload will measure neutral wind in the part of Earth's atmosphere called the thermosphere. Understanding these winds will help scientists predict changes in the ionosphere, which can affect communication and navigation systems. The second flight will support several piggyback missions of opportunity, or smaller payloads, including:

Compact Multichannel Imaging Camera (CoMIC), led by University of Massachusetts Lowell, will study and measure how Earth's atmosphere scatters light at high altitudes and will measure airglow, specifically the red and green emissions.

High-altitude Infrasound from Geophysical Sources (HIGS), led by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories, will measure atmospheric pressure to collect signals of geophysical events on Earth such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. These signals will help NASA as it develops the ability to measure seismic activity on Venus from high-altitude balloons.

Measuring Ocean Acoustics North of Antarctica (MOANA), led by Sandia National Laboratories and the Swedish Institute of Space Physics, aims to capture sound waves in Earth's stratosphere with frequencies below the limit of human hearing.

NASA's Balloon Program Office at the agency's Wallops Flight Facility is leading two technology demonstrations on the flight. The INterim Dynamics Instrumentation for Gondolas (INDIGO) is a data recorder meant to measure the shock of the gondola during the launch, termination, and landing phases of flight. The Sensor Package for Attitude, Rotation, and Relative Observable Winds—7 (SPARROW-7), will demonstrate relative wind measurements using an ultrasonic device designed for the balloon float environment that measures wind speed and direction.

NASA's 18.8-million-cubic-foot (532,000-cubic-meter) helium-filled super pressure balloon, when fully inflated, is roughly the size of Forsyth-Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand, which has a seating capacity of more than 35,000. The balloon will float at an altitude of around 110,000 feet (33.5 kilometers), more than twice the altitude of a commercial airplane. Its flight path is determined by the speed and direction of wind at its float altitude.

The balloon is a closed system designed to prevent gas release. It offers greater stability at float altitude with minimum altitude fluctuations during the day-to-night cycle compared to a zero pressure balloon. This capability will enable future missions to affordably access the near-space environment for long-duration science and technology research from the Southern Hemisphere's mid-latitudes, including nighttime observations.

The public is encouraged to follow real-time tracking of the balloons' paths as they circle the globe on the agency's Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility website. Launch and tracking information will be shared across NASA's social media platforms and the NASA Wallops blog.

NASA's return to Wānaka marks the sixth super pressure balloon campaign held in New Zealand since the agency began balloon operations there in 2015. The launches are conducted in collaboration with the Queenstown Airport Corporation, Queenstown Lake District Council, New Zealand Space Agency, and Airways New Zealand.

"We are especially grateful to our local hosts, partners, and collaborators who have been with us from the beginning and are critical to the success of these missions and this campaign," said Garde.

IMAGE: A super pressure balloon with the EUSO-2 payload is prepared for launch from Wānaka, New Zealand, during NASA’s campaign in 2023. Credit: NASA/Bill Rodman

[sleepykeebs]

What Mechanical Keyboard Should I Get?

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular due to their durability, customization options, and satisfying feel and sound. One of the key decisions to make when choosing a mechanical keyboard is deciding on the layout that best fits your needs. Keyboard layouts vary in size and functionality, and understanding the differences can help you find the perfect match for your typing or gaming experience. In this blog, we'll explore the most common mechanical keyboard layouts and guide you in choosing the right one.

Common Mechanical Keyboard Layouts

Full-Sized Keyboard (100%)

Overview:

A full-sized keyboard includes all the keys you would expect on a standard keyboard—104 to 108 keys in total. This layout includes the alphanumeric keys, function keys, arrow keys, a number pad, and other special function keys.

Pros:

Full-sized keyboards are ideal for users who need a dedicated number pad, such as data entry professionals or gamers who use macros and shortcuts.

Cons:

They are large and can take up significant desk space, which may not be ideal for minimalistic setups.

Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboard (87%)

Overview:

Tenkeyless keyboards remove the number pad, resulting in a smaller and more compact form factor, typically with around 87 keys.

Pros:

TKL keyboards save desk space and are more portable, making them great for gamers and professionals who don’t need a number pad. They also allow for more ergonomic mouse positioning.

Cons:

The lack of a number pad might be a dealbreaker for users who frequently input numerical data.

75% Layout

Overview:

A 75% keyboard is slightly more compact than a TKL keyboard, with all the necessary keys in a tighter, more efficient arrangement. Arrow keys and function keys are still present but placed closer to the alphanumeric section.

Pros:

The 75% layout offers a balance between functionality and size. It's compact enough to save space while still providing access to essential keys.

Cons:

Due to the more condensed layout, some keys may be in unfamiliar positions, which could take some time to get used to.

65% Layout

Overview:

A 65% keyboard cuts out even more keys, including the function row, but retains the arrow keys and some important navigation keys like Page Up, Page Down, and Delete.

Pros:

This layout is excellent for users who want a compact keyboard but still need essential navigation keys for productivity or gaming.

Cons:

The lack of a function row may frustrate users who rely on those keys for certain tasks.

60% Layout

Overview:

One of the smallest layouts, the 60% keyboard eliminates the function keys, arrow keys, and navigation cluster. It typically only retains the alphanumeric section and modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, etc.).

Pros:

The ultra-compact size makes it perfect for users with limited desk space, and it’s highly portable. It’s popular with minimalist setups and gamers who rely on fewer keys.

Cons:

The missing arrow and function keys can be a significant drawback for productivity users. Some functions are accessed through key combinations, which may slow down workflows.

40% Layout

Overview:

The 40% keyboard takes minimalism to the extreme, removing not just the number pad and function keys, but also the number row. Users rely heavily on function layers and shortcuts.

Pros:

Extremely compact and portable, making it ideal for users who prioritize desk space and portability.

Cons:

This layout has a steep learning curve due to the heavy reliance on key combinations. It’s not suitable for those who need fast and direct access to many keys.

Specialty Layouts

Split Keyboards

Overview:

Split keyboards, also called Alice and Arisu; are designed to reduce wrist strain and promote a more ergonomic typing posture by splitting the keyboard into two halves. Some users find them more comfortable for extended typing sessions, though they take some time to adjust to.

Pros:

Offers improved ergonomics by allowing a natural hand and wrist position. Helps with arm and shoulde ralignment

Cons:

Learning curve can be hard and gruesome. Less portable than other keyboards and more expensive as layout is unusual.

Ortholinear Keyboards

Overview:

Unlike standard staggered keyboards, ortholinear layouts have keys arranged in straight vertical columns. They’re popular among users who believe the grid-like arrangement improves typing efficiency.

Pros:

More efficient and ergonomic typing by aligning keys in straight columns, which can reduce finger movement and strain for some users.

Cons:

The unusual key arrangement can require a steep learning curve, as it differs from the staggered layout most people are accustomed to, making the transition challenging. Additionally, fewer models and customization options are available, limiting choices for users seeking more variety.

How to Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard Layout for You

Consider Your Workload and Habits

If you frequently work with numbers, such as in data entry or accounting, a full-sized keyboard might be a necessity. For general office tasks, a TKL or 75% layout offers a balance between functionality and compactness.

For gamers, compact keyboards like 60% or 65% layouts can provide more room for mouse movement, which can be a critical factor in fast-paced gaming.

Desk Space and Portability

If you have limited desk space or frequently travel with your keyboard, smaller layouts like 60% or 65% can be ideal. These options offer more portability while still retaining essential keys.

For a stationary setup with ample desk space, the full-sized or TKL keyboards may be more comfortable to use for extended periods.

Ergonomics and Comfort

For users concerned with wrist strain, ergonomic keyboards like split or ortholinear keyboards can be worth considering. These layouts are designed to promote natural hand and wrist positioning, reducing discomfort during long typing sessions.

Aesthetic and Personal Preference

Layout preference can also come down to aesthetics. If you prefer a clean, minimal look for your workspace, a 60% layout might fit that vision. If you value symmetry and uniformity in key placement, an ortholinear keyboard might be appealing.

Additionally, consider whether you enjoy customizing your keyboard with keycaps and switches. Some smaller layouts might offer fewer customization options due to their compact size.

The best mechanical keyboard layout ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and usage habits. Whether you're a gamer looking for a compact layout, a professional who needs a number pad, or someone who values portability, there's a mechanical keyboard layout that can enhance your typing experience. Take the time to consider how you use your keyboard daily, and you'll be able to make a decision that balances functionality and comfort.

Happy typing!

[atlurbanist]

I'm never trying to make drivers feel guilty about their pollution. Instead, I'm always trying to state the importance of more-compact developments that better enable alternatives to driving such as walking and transit.

Personal car trips need to be de-centered in our development patterns.

With that caveat...

Research over the last few years has revealed more and more harm coming from the ultra-fine particle pollution of tire and brake dust. One report found that 78 percent of ocean microplastics are from synthetic tire rubber. Others have found links to bad health outcomes in humans.

Despite the benefits of switching to electric powered vehicles, it's a problem they can't solve -- in fact, the heavier weight of EVs can worsen the pollution. One study found that EVs can shed around 20 percent more from their tires due to their higher weight compared to internal combustion vehicles.

Things I'm not saying: "ban all cars" or "EVs are evil" or "anyone driving a car should be ashamed." I don't think that and I'm not saying that.

What I am saying: every development going forward needs to be intentionally designed to contribute to a cure for car dependency, and to not sustain or exacerbate the problem.