#operation basalt

[nettlestonenell]

Operation Basalt: Sark WW2 commando raid remembered

[tarnishedtwill]

Nevarran Locations & Landmarks

Nevarra City– This is the capital of Nevarra. Home to the Grand Necropolis among other things. This is also primarily where most festivals and balls are held, as well as where the Palace of King Markus is located. Nevarra City is also home to the  residence of the Anaxas house, and location of the Duchess Games. [Though the current ruler of Cumberland hails from this family: Duke Sandral Anaxas.] It is also home to the Castrum Draconis as well as the Minanter River which carves through it.

Castrum Draconis– Vast Botanical Gardens with hundreds of statues depicting Royalty and Heroes of legend [Powerful Generals, Dragon Hunters etc.] Along the roadways leading up to the Castrum are stately columns of black marble amidst which statues of Kings & Queens of Nevarras past are on prominent display. In Autumn there is a festival held [ see Ancestral Pageant in my Nevarran Culture Post] where many great families hire performers to recreate famous moments in the statues lives by lantern light. Often draping the statues themselves with their house colors. Notably the Pentaghasts and Van Markhams tend to compete for the best show each year.

Blackthorne Manor– The estate was gifted to a family who then took on it’s name by Queen Vanneska the Fourth. [codex: ‘A Tale of the Blackthornes’] Twenty Generations have walked its halls, [meaning if a generation is estimated at 25-30 years, I would potentially date both the manner and Vanneska to 500-600 years ago, placing somewhere around 3:50 Towers to 4:50 Black.] That said, the codex this is from is annotated by Emmrich stating this must have been written in better days– that no one knows what horrible fate befell the Blackthornes. Noting rumors of suspicious deaths, untended crypts and salacious affairs. [This means that my date estimates could be to young and the manor could be even older.] At some point since its abandonment, it became the base for the Necromancer Johanna Hezenkoss.

Grand Necropolis– A large mausoleum sometimes said to be at the heart of Nevarra city while other sources say it's on the outskirts of the city. This is the main base of operation for all Mortalitasi, including the Mourn Watch. There are open-air gardens, crypts, and mausolieums. The structure is as large as a city in its own right, some royal burials being described as palaces of their own. [Lead concept artist Matt Rhodes remarked while designing the structure that, at least in early concepts, his inspiration was an inverted Tower of Babel. The Mortalitassi, instead of seeking knowledge from the stars, they seek it from their dead.] It is also of note that the geography of the Necropolis shifts quite a bit. Chambers are known to shift and change sporadically. [Note the Memorial Gardens being lost until Rook discovers they had moved to the Vault of the Beloved & also the lack of panic over the Basalt Hypogeum at first because it was thought they moved within the Necropolis, not that they were stolen.] Though Emmrich does say during the 'Walking the Graves' questline that it is unlikely for a section to move while people are inside of it, impling it's more common for less traversed chambers to shift. Unless I am mistaken it appears the cause of this is shift is largely unknown, if not gently implied that it's something to disuade tomb raiding. [I cannot remember which dialogue it is said in, I will search, but I am pretty sure looting deterents are mentioned at one point.] While some areas like the gardens are open to the public for days of mourning, many of the lower wings are heavily restricted even among the order.

Basalt Hypogeum– A vast section of the Necropolis that was stolen and transported to Blackthorne Manor to facilitate Johanna Hezenkoss’ experiments. Many Watchers were curious of its disappearance as it was sudden, though the Necropolis does tend to shift often. Myrna noted it was a ‘matter of strange obliquity’. Once Johanna is defeated Myrna notes a great magic will be required to attempt to transport and restore the wing to its place in the Necopolis. Design wise we know this is one of the more impressive and old sactums within the Necropolis, the basalt being shipped from Rivain in 4:57 Black. We also know the name of the Stonemason who crafted its impressive halls: Othmar Gerdebrand.

Cascades– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’

Chamber of the Unforged– This is a hexagonal chamber with several small treasure caches on each spoke. Notably this is where Rook faces the Formless One when it possessed the body of a taxidermied high dragon. It is considered one of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’. The hallway leading to this chamber seems to hold several important memorials, as statues, paintings and gated off rooms of gold and urns line each side. [Knowing that the Tanhausen family commissioned the high dragon to be taxidermied it could possibly be a wing for their quite prominent family. However we do know that the ‘last’ crypt of the Tanhausen’s is in the Memorial Gardens.]

Charnel Bridge– Mentioned briefly in banter between Bellara and Emmrich for good places to learn more about undead. It’s briefly mentioned that the ‘nightmare fog’ has overwhelmed it.

Charnel Pyramid– A section of the Necropolis that is ‘disagreeably cursed.’ [Codex entry: From Myrna, on Rediscovering the Gardens] Myrna recommended that the Pyramid should go through a lustration before the next Equinox. [Lustration: a policy that removes public officials or beings from positions of power associated with a repressive regime; this makes me wonder if it is similar to the situation with undead during the War of Banners.] The area surrounding the pyramid must also be quite sizeable as it was debated to be used as a backup location for public days of mourning in the event the location of the Memorial Gardens was not rediscovered in time.

Cobalt Ossuary– A resting place for skulls within the Necropolis. This is the location of the spiritual disturbance in the short story ‘A Flame Eternal’ in which a skull began to hiss and scream from it’s niche. [We know that some royal families and high nobility have full Palaces as their resting places. I would assume an Ossuary with skulls in niches more than likely is for lower nobility, or even commoners if they are able to be inturned in the necropolis, based oh how unextravagant in sound in comparison. But this is just a guess.]

Crescent Fane– Another chamber of burial, described vaguely as having sunken black walls, with bowls of silver flames [I am not sure if this is a descriptor for veilfire or something else entirely.] around each coffin. [‘A Flame Eternal’] The only known person interred here is a woman named Mathilde, whose husband’s skull became restless until they were once again joined together. [Fane, also means a temple or shrine, so it is possible this is a temporary resting place for the recently dead, maybe to prepare them or just until they are moved to a more final resting place, as Emmrich mentions Mathilde passed ‘in her sleep, last midnight.’]

Hollow Belfry– This seems to be a common area, or main spoke. Several hallways branch off into the other chambers of the Necropolis. The center has a lowered portion where Myrna and Vorgoth tend to be stationed, alerting watchers to hauntings & providing the guild market. It also has an upper atrium.

The Memorial Gardens– This is where public days of mourning are held, while we don’t know it’s original location we do know that this chamber went missing before appearing at the vault of the Beloved [Which, in my opinion is in some way the Necropolis foreshadowing Emmrich & Rook getting together (conditional) since this seems to be Emmrich’s favourite spot to wander, and well Vault of the Beloved… anyways I digress.] The Garden is a cemetery that spralls outward amongst an array of flowers and statues.  This includes the Tableau of the Dead, created from real skeletons in 7:20 Storm. As well as the large statuary monument ‘Love in Life and Death’ which displays two skeletons kissing among other posed figures, overgrown with a flower called shrouds kiss. This is a statue dedicated to the enduring passion of those bound by love. We know that the Rites of Rememberance can be performed by Watchers here as well as a meditative puzzle involving the cleansing bells. In addition to that, the only known/named people to be buried here are Rupert & Elannora Volkarin [Emmrich’s parents], and  the last tomb of the Tanhanhausen line. 

The Path of Glory– Just off to the Side of the Memorial gardens. It holds rooms featuring boardgames, grave mist, and such along with it’s skeletons. This is alo where Emmrich prepares an intimate dinner date for Rook if Romanced. [Trying to confirm]

The Path of Sighs– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Shrouded Halls– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Spectral Court– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’.

Unspoken Valley- Mentioned briefly in banter between Bellara and Emmrich for good places to learn more about Spirits. It’s briefly mentioned that the ‘nightmare fog’ has overwhelmed it.

Upper Mortuary- in banter with Neve, Emmrich mentions he left several of his books in his apartment at the Necropolis. When questioned if most Mourn Watchers live on the Necropolis grounds, he simply replies that the ‘Upper Mortuary is quite pleasant.’ this to me signifies that he is not the only one, and/or this could be one of many more residential areas within the Necropolis. I would assume if this is an area for high up faculty, students and trainees may be housed elsewhere.

Vault of the Beloved– One of the ‘Lost Watcher’s Wings’. This is the new resting place of the Memorial Gardens.

Weeping Vale– We simply do not know much about what the Weeping Vale is, but dialogue between Emmrich and Rook (conditional to Mourn Watch) tells us that recently there was a problem solved by the Mourn Watch to stop wandering cenotaphs from appearing. [A cenotaph is a memorial or monument to someone whose body is buried elsewhere. This is typically done to honor those who died in war, but not always.]

Flora of the Necropolis– I cannot find much on plants related to Nevarra specifically, but some are mentioned directly: variegated weeping widower, shrouds kiss, & unknown willows capable of making their own noises [Codex: New Fauna].

Hunter Fell– A small city west of the capital. This is where King Caspar Pentaghast is from, as well as the location of the tea house that Charter calls a meeting of spies to discuss the movements and motivations of Solas. [Tevinter Nights: The Dread Wolf Take You] The only other thing to really note is that when Tylus Van Markham seized the throne from King Nestor Pentaghast [5:37 Exhalted], several surviving Pentaghasts fled to Hunter Fell. Eventually in 9:42 Dragon, the Inquisiton was called in to investigate Duke Tythas Pentaghst, ruler of Hunter Fell. He commanded a network of spies and warriors called the ‘Five Belles of Hunter Fell’ suspected of being tied to the Venatori.

Cumberland– One of the largest cities in Thedas, it sits South of Nevarra city, where the Imperial highway forks and portside to the Waking Sea. Not only does it function as a major trading port but also as a seat of immense knowledge. Home to the College of Magi, which is thought to bear the brightest mages and scholars throughout Thedas. It is also where many tournaments of combat, and archery are held. The current ruler is Duke Sandral Anaxas.

College of Magi– The college of Magi sits at the center of the city the Sun Dome’s golden exterior and massive spires making the city itself seem gilded and brilliant.  The palace itself was gifted to the Chantry by  a Nevarran Duchess. Keeping with the Nevvarran tradition of statues, the College of Magi is no different, the entryway featuring busts of ever Grand Enchanter from the last 600 years since this is the place from which they are chosen by a council of First Enchanters. The College of Magi is thought to bear the brightest mages and scholars throughout Thedas, some of which then move on to recruitment with the Mortalitasi.

Additional notes about historical events at the College of Magi [& some Dorian and Ashur lore]: In 9:38 following the Kirkwall Rebellion, the Chantry disbands meetings of the College of Enchanters [Based on context and what I am able to find, it seems the College of Enchaters is the name of the council of First Enchanters.], as well as any unsanctioned mage gatherings. This meant the dissolving of mage fraternities. This is also around the time that former Warden Fiona is elevated to the position of Grand Enchanter. [Wynne blames this as the reason the conclave was disbanded.] Grand Enchanter Fiona was quick to begin campaigning for independence, leading a vote among the College of Enchanters to secede from the Chantry entirely. Though the vote did not pass, the existence of the vote was enough for the Templar order to call for the dissolution of the College of Enchanters. More political unrest insues leading to Divine Justinia II calling for a meeting of the College of Enchanters, now disbanded, to the White Spire instead of their traditional seat in Cumberland. This lead to Grand Enchanter Fiona once again pleading for secession, causing High Seeker Lambert to declare the College of Enchanters treasonous. After a daring rescue of some of the enchanters, Fiona once again led a vote on succession in Cumberland. This time since too few first enchanters remained, some having died in capture, the fraternities casted their votes. This lead  ultimately to the dissolution of the circles and the movement towards mage freedom. The factions mentioned above include:

Aequitarians– This is the most dominant of the fraternities in the College of Magi. Their ideology is moderate, and thus popular. It is that mages must use their abilities ethically, and responsibly within society regardless of Chantry law. They believe mages have the power to help people, and should be doing so. Historically leaders of this group include Wynne & Rhys.

Isolationists– While less popular, this smaller faction simply believes mages should separate from the Chantry, and society as a whole. Creating their own systems and culture without any scrutiny towards the practice of magic or danger towards those without.

Libertarians– This group desires the Circle to become self governed and separate rom the chantry. While on the surface the Libertarians seek to do this peacefully, a subgroup of resolutionists within the faction have no issue usng violent means to achieve this. This group has been led historically by Fiona & Adrian.

Loyalists– As the name implies this group is the most devout, following the word of the Chantry. They are often viewed negatively by other mages for being apologists to the oppression faced by mages.

Lucrosians– the smallest fraternity amongst the College of Magi, these mages simply align themselves with the priority of gaining wealth, and political influence over any social cause.

In Veilguard we receive a conversation between Dorian Pavus and Ashur [who may or may not be Divine Aequitas II] in which Dorian comments, ‘Speaking of brash rebels, remember Cumberland? Spring of ‘38?’ to which Ashur replies ‘I wish I didn’t.’ This has had me so curious as to why they were present, were they part of the fraternities that helped vote against the circles since fraternities voted in the place of first enchanters? Or were they simply there as support to keep templars from intervening the College of Enchanters meeting. Either way. Super interesting additional lore on Dorian & Ashur. We know Dorian was part of the Lucerni [a faction dedicated to redeeming and restoring Tevinter] but that is a group exclusive to the Magistirium and not one of the fraternities of the College of Magi. In fact it is more than likely closer tied to the Shadow Dragons. [If you want a less summarized version of 9:38 Dragon, most of the information comes from Dragon Age: Asunder.]

Diamond Lass– in the ‘Dragon’s Den’ district of Cumberland, this is a luxury inn. Drinks are said to be served with crystal goblets alongside runes said to keep the beverage cold.

‘Dragon’s Den’– This is a walled off sector of town, adjacent to the more wealthy quarters of the city. It functions as a Dwarven trading hub and due to his most of the buildings are described to have distinctly Dwarven Architecture.

Forsythia Estate– This is the ancestral residence of the noble house Forsythia

Thank you all for the kind words on my first lore post. In this next section I tried to break down several key locations. If there are ones you'd like to see that I did not explore please let me know! If there is anything I missed or got incorrect, I am open to corrections! Additionally I would love any additional descriptions or information about the sections of the Necropolis, information is scarce, so any additional notes are welcomed. For more posts on this topic, they will be marked on my page under the tag Nevarran lore.

I hope for this to be a resource for fic writers but also knowledge for my fellow lore nerds. More will be posted soon as feel sections become complete.

Update Edits: More insight on the shifting chambers of the Necropolis, and additional lore on the Basalt Hypogeum. Thank you guys for the feedback <3

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from EcoWatch:

Swiss company Climeworks has opened the biggest operational direct air capture (DAC) plant in the world to pull carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

The Mammoth plant, located in Iceland, is nearly ten times bigger than Orca, its second-largest plant.

“Starting operations of our Mammoth plant is another proof point in Climeworks’ scale-up journey to megaton capacity by 2030 and gigaton by 2050,” said Jan Wurzbacher, Climeworks co-founder and co-CEO, in a press release from Climeworks.

The DAC process sucks carbon from the air and stores it, most often underground, where it can no longer contribute to global heating.

With global efforts to reduce fossil fuel emissions inadequate to prevent the worsening effects of climate change, United Nations scientists have estimated that carbon dioxide in the billions of tons will need to be removed to meet climate targets, reported Reuters.

Climeworks’ new DAC plant has an annual carbon capture capacity of 36,000 metric tons. The Mammoth plant, begun in 2022, will be completed by the end of this year.

The company’s first commercial DAC project was also in Iceland — the Orca plant — and has an annual capacity of 4,000 metric tons.

“Mammoth has successfully started to capture its first CO₂. Climeworks uses renewable energy to power its direct air capture process, which requires low-temperature heat like boiling water. The geothermal energy partner ON Power in Iceland provides the energy necessary for this process,” Climeworks said. “Once the CO₂ is released from the filters, storage partner Carbfix transports the CO₂ underground, where it reacts with basaltic rock through a natural process, which transforms into stone, and remains permanently stored.”

Critics of carbon capture technology argue that it uses an enormous amount of energy, is expensive and that focusing on the removal of carbon from the atmosphere could encourage companies to continue burning fossil fuels rather than lowering their emissions. Many critics also emphasize that its effectiveness has not been proven.

Speaking about carbon capture in general, Lili Fuhr, Center for International Environmental Law’s fossil economy program director, said the technology “is fraught with uncertainties and ecological risks,” as CNN reported.

The total carbon removal capacity on Earth can only remove roughly 0.01 million metric tons per year of the 70 million tons that would need to be removed by the end of the decade to meet worldwide climate goals, the International Energy Agency said.

Climeworks — which does not have ties to fossil fuel companies — said it is looking to lower the costs of DAC technology to $400 to $600 per ton by the end of the decade and $200 to $350 a ton by 2040, reported Reuters.

Development is currently in the works for megaton Climeworks hubs in the United States, the press release said.

[teratocrat]

Alala, third planet of the star Areëos, was first logged by the survey ship I Would Be River Water as supporting life, and certainly it does, but not much of it. Mats of xanthophyllic algae descended from that brought by the Goldsowers approximately 12.4 mya coat the shores of its shallow oceans, and lichenous yellow splotches march across the land, chewing basalts and olivines into primordial soil, but multicellular heterotrophic life seems limited to various gelatinous worms burrowing through the oceanic silt. Alala is young, as planets go, and its crust thin; fumaroles dot its surface, and in and around their chimneys extremophilic bacteria breed, hitch rides on the glittering sooty plumes of volcanic gases that tidal forces from Alala's single moon, Carnyx, coax out as it passes overhead, and are then whipped into the howling 500kmph winds that gave the planet its name. Other features of note in the Areëos system include the Ring of Keres, an asteroid belt seven or eight times denser than that of Sol, likely the remains of a planet torn apart by the gas giant Homados, as well as Homados itself and its host of moons - of greatest interest to I Would Be River Water and later ships Becoming The Glass Castle and Intransigent Star was Bástya, the large and rocky base of operations for the Goldsowers as they began the work of habitiforming Alala for their own purposes. The ruins here are of the Late Goldsower Style, very well preserved in Bástya's thin atmosphere and the plymatter only just beginning to show signs of deviation. Still requiring further study are many of the other moons of Homados and its brother Kratos, as well as the planets beyond them, and indeed the planets inward of Alala as well.

[jhokey]

Heart of the volcano

In Minecraft, the heart of the ocean provides benefits underwater, but to be honest, it's not used all that much.. Instead, it would be more useful if there were a volcano's heart operating through basalt, granting advantages against fire in the Nether!

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

ESA-DLR lunar analogue facility inaugurated 

LUNA, Europe’s new ‘Moon on Earth’, is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of lunar exploration. 

The inauguration of LUNA, the lunar analogue facility operated jointly by ESA and the German Aerospace Agency (Deutsche Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt, DLR), took place on 25 September in Cologne, Germany.

The facility, which is designed to recreate the lunar surface, is located next to ESA’s European Astronaut Centre and will be used to prepare astronauts, scientists, engineers and mission experts for living and working on the Moon. 

It will facilitate research, development and integrated testing of space technology under realistic conditions, providing valuable insights for upcoming lunar missions, such as NASA's Artemis programme, which will send astronauts to the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. 

ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said, "The opening of LUNA marks a significant milestone in Europe’s space exploration efforts. This unique facility, with its ability to replicate lunar conditions, advances our understanding of the Moon and prepares us for future missions. We are proud to lead this project, which positions Europe at the forefront of lunar exploration and beyond, while also fostering international collaboration in space research.” 

Guests from the space sector and governmental officials attended the inauguration of Europe’s cutting-edge space research facility, including ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, Chair of the DLR Executive Board Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, the Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia Hendrik Wüst, alongside Deputy Minister-President of North Rhine-Westphalia Mona Neubaur and the Federal Government Coordinator for German Aerospace Anna Christmann, as well as representatives of NASA. 

"LUNA will contribute to optimising our preparations for activities on the lunar surface through research into technologies and innovation for space exploration. This involves robotics as well as artificial intelligence, the utilisation of local resources and resource-conserving cycles all the way through to regenerative energy systems. LUNA provides a unique array of elements for scientific research and technological development under one roof. In its role as the ‘Moon on Earth’, LUNA will sustainably support activities on the Moon from Germany," says Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chair of the DLR Executive Board.

"LUNA represents a major leap forward in our efforts to prepare for human exploration of the Moon and beyond. By replicating the lunar surface and providing vital insights into surface operations, this facility will help us address the challenges of future space missions. Partnering with DLR on this project highlights the power of international collaboration and our shared commitment to advancing space exploration together," commented ESA Director of Human and Robotic Exploration Daniel Neuenschwander.

  LUNA features a 700-square-metre area that replicates the Moon’s surface using 900 tonnes of basalt-derived volcanic grains and rocks, processed to create a material known as ‘regolith simulant’, providing a unique testing environment.

A deep floor area will allow for drilling and sampling up to three metres below the surface, enabling research on regolith including frozen lunar soil.

Meanwhile, a Sun simulator mimics the day and night cycles on the Moon, including the challenging lighting conditions found at lunar polar regions. 

Advanced control rooms are linked in real-time to mission control centres in Germany and worldwide. In the future, the analogue facility will also be connected to the Lunar Gateway, or even the Moon itself for seamless mission simulations.

Additional features will soon be implemented such as a gravity offloading system to simulate the Moon’s one-sixth of Earth gravity and an adjustable ramp for testing mobility on lunar slopes.

LUNA is designed as an open hub, available to space agencies, academia, researchers, space industry, start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises from all over the world. 

[spacenutspod]

For a little over a month now, the Earth has been joined by a new ‘mini-moon.’ The object is an asteroid that has been temporarily accompanying Earth on its journey around the Sun. By 25th November it will have departed but before then, astronomers across the world have been turning their telescopes to study it. A new paper of 2024 PT5 reveals its basaltic nature – similar to volcanic rocks on Earth – with a composition that makes it similar to lunar material. There have been many close encounters to Earth allowing many of its secrets to be unveiled. The Moon is perhaps one of the most well known astronomical objects. It’s Earth’s only permanent natural satellite and has been in orbit since early in the planet’s history. It lies approximately 384,400 kilometres away and has played a crucial part in stabilising are axial tilt and regulating the climate and seasons. In addition to the Moon we are occasionally joined by asteroids that briefly orbit around the Earth before continuing their journey through the Solar System.  The partial lunar eclipse from October 2023 as seen from Oxfordshire UK. Credit: Mary McIntyre FRAS. 2024 PT5 is a small asteroid that has served as a temporary “mini-moon” for Earth, orbiting near the planet for about six weeks. Analysis has revealed that the asteroid spins rapidly, completing one full rotation in under an hour and measures no more than 15 metres across. While it will leave Earth’s vicinity in just a few days, its brief presence has offered valuable insight and data on the properties of near-Earth objects. Space agencies like NASA and ESA are both exploring commercial space operations to support the growing global space economy. Exploring and mining asteroids is an activity that is well suited to this endeavour. Asteroids like 2024 PT5 which is in close proximity to Earth is well suited to this. The paper that has been published in Astronomy & Astrophysics and was authored by R. de la Fuente Marcos and a team of Spanish astronomers. The asteroid Dimorphos was captured by NASA’s DART mission just two seconds before the spacecraft struck its surface on Sept. 26, 2022. Observations of the asteroid before and after impact suggest it is a loosely packed “rubble pile” object. Credit: NASA/JHUAPL The study focussed attention on changes to the short-term orbital properties and used N-body simulations (a technique to simulate a dynamic system under other physical forces such as the force of gravity.) They also explored the spectral class of the asteroid from reflectance spectra analysis obtained with the OSIRIS spectrograph and assessed its rotational properties. The team confirmed that 2024 PT5 is a natural object (thankfully) that has a spectra which is consisted with the so called Sv-type asteroid, similar to breccia found in the Lunar mare. Assessment of its rotational properties revealed it is completing one rotation in less than an hour. They could not rule out whether the asteroid was tumbling in an erratic fashion, further analysis is needed. Finally through astrometric observations the team concluded that the orbits of 2024 PT5 and 2022 NX1 (another near Earth asteroid which is just 10 metres across) are very similar.  Both ESA and NASA now consider a cost-effective strategy for NEO missions essential with a focus on small body science and planetary defence. The approach includes reusing and active missions and identifying accessible objects like 2022 NX1 and 2024 PT5 using ground-based observatories.   Source : Basaltic mini-moon: Characterizing 2024 PT5 with the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio Canarias and the Two-meter Twin Telescope The post Here’s What We Know About Earth’s Temporary Mini-Moon appeared first on Universe Today.

[eopederson]

Fresh Flows Across Iceland

"Lava poured from a volcanic fissure near the town of Grindavík, Iceland, in spring 2024. The eruption, which began on March 16 and remained active over two weeks later, was the largest in a string of four volcanic events on the Reykjanes peninsula starting in December 2023. 

The OLI (Operational Land Imager) on Landsat 8 captured this image of the ongoing eruption on March 30, 2024. The natural color scene is overlaid with an infrared signal to help distinguish the lava’s heat signature. The active part of the fissure and the origin of a volcanic plume are apparent. While the eruption was still active at this time, additional satellite and ground observations indicated it was likely waning. 

The eruption began at 8:23 p.m. local time on March 16, the Icelandic Met Office (IMO) reported. A fissure nearly 3 kilometers (2 miles) long quickly opened in a similar location to the February 2024 eruption. Hundreds of people at the Blue Lagoon, as well as a small number in Grindavík, were evacuated within about 30 minutes of the eruption starting. 

In the days that followed, lava flowed toward infrastructure such as water pipes and roads, the town of Grindavík, and the ocean. Human-constructed barriers of earth and rock diverted lava away from town, although a flow extended across one road. Officials were initially concerned that lava would reach the coast and cool rapidly upon contacting water. This could have posed additional hazards such as the production of hydrogen chloride gas, but the flow stopped short.

This Landsat image comparison shows the recent changes on the Reykjanes peninsula. In September 2023 (left), the area was quiet volcanically. By February 10, 2024 (center), three separate fissure eruptions had occurred. The footprint of new basaltic rock grew in March 2024 (right) as new lava spanned nearly 6 square kilometers (2.3 square miles), according to the IMO. 

Like the eruptions that preceded it, the spring 2024 event was effusive, not explosive. Effusive eruptions tend to emit minimal ash, and their plumes typically contain water vapor, sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and small amounts of other volcanic gases. 

This eruption did not disrupt air travel, but sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions were hazardous locally at times. Workers evacuated the power plant north of Grindavík on March 18 due to gas pollution, the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service reported. The SO2 emissions from this eruption were forecast to drift across the United Kingdom and northern Europe, according to models based on satellite observations, but at an altitude too high to affect surface air quality. 

Unlike the other recent eruptions in this region, the springtime event stretched out over weeks rather than a couple of days. The reason for the relatively prolonged eruption may be that magma now has an easier path to the surface, experts suggested in news reports. Others think that magma is no longer accumulating in the shallow magma chamber beneath the area and that this eruption could be the last in the longer cycle. 

NASA Earth Observatory images by Lauren Dauphin, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Lindsey Doermann."

And to think we were there in September about the time the first photo was made! The main road connecting Grindavik to the remainder of Iceland has been cut in two places. According to their website, the popular tourist attraction Blue Lagoon is closed due to "unfavourable air quality" but is scheduled to reopen tomorrow 11 April.

Wish I could hop on a plane to see this in person, but other obligations preclude such a trip anytime soon.

[menzoberranzans-historian]

Shops & Activities in Menzoberranzan's districts:

THE BRAERYN:

The Wan Hag

Information Broker

During the Time of Troubles era and the beginning of the War of the Spider Queen, an information broker named Smylla Nathos operated in the Braeryn. A human, she captured the attention of a drow slaver aid on the surface world and returned to Menzoberranzan as something more than a slave and less than an honored guest of House Faen Tlabbar. For a time, she used her skill as a sorcerer and diviner-as well as her drow like poise, charm, and ruthlessness to serve as an advisor to Matron Ghenni'tiroth. But when she fell ill, and healing magic failed to offer remedy, her sickness was viewed as a curse inflicted by Lolth.

Escaping assassination by her former benefactors, Smylla fled to the Braeryn to eke out a new life among the dregs of drow society. Although her illness left her withered and weak, the Wan Hag, as she came to be known, employed her eldritch talents to cobble together a formidable web of informants and spies. However, by the beginning of the War of the Spider Queen, her illness had robbed her even of her divination talents, and she was soon killed by Ryld Argith.

Quaggoth Drool

Tavern

The Stench streets is notorious for its déclassé “drinking pits" those crude establishments where drow of every station go to forget about caste and rank for a few hours, guzzle raw spirits, and watch lesser creatures slaughter one another in bloody contests. One such place is the Quaggoth Drool. As is common inn such pits, revelers must surrender all weapons when they enter the tavern. Then they can get as drunk as they want, shout, argue, talk, and have a good fight. Priestesses often use magic to eavesdrop in such ruinous places, listening for treachery, plans for attacks on houses, or other business being discussed. The entertainment focuses on the sunken arena at the center of the common room where patrons wager heavily on brutal and often lethal pit matches.

DUTHCLOIM:

The Cathlyre

Exotic Bird Aviary

Anchored to a sweeping battlement of stalactites along the Clawrift's easternmost perimeter is a spectacular latticework enclosure crafted of basalt support beams and a mesh of calcified webbing. Within the free flight structure, soar countless types of avians from the World Above, including many exotic species (among them the namesake peacock-like cathlyre). From the large shop, perched along the ledge of the Clawrift, the birds are sold as pets, live targets, or roasted alive before the customer's eyes-a hot meal seasoned and done to order.

Rhauvais' Arms

Munitions Supplier

Proprietor Rhauvais del'Ygana, a tall and strong female drow, specializes in discreet manufacture and sale of exotic, high-quality ranged weapons and ammunition for her noble clientele. Specialty armaments of her design include “the spinagon” (a repeating hand crossbow), "the kocrachon” (a hovering, envenomed, dart-like projectile that strikes upona triggered condition), and "the hamatula” (a basilisk-hide bandolier that magically recalls any dagger thrown from its pockets); all are named after devils of the Nine Hells.

The Bazaar

The ever-changing, never-sleeping Bazaar is the commercial heart of Menzoberranzan. This circle of bare bedrock about 750 feet in diameter is a crowded, untidy labyrinth of stalls and hagglers. The ongoing trade fair attracts merchants and goods from all over Faerûn, and the drow go there to buy and sell almost everything imaginable.

Warriors training at the Academy patrol the Bazaar heavily. The patrols are performed to keep a lid on the violence, but they do not interfere with haggling, arguments, or fraudulent dealing. The merchants suffer the patrols to keep the house nobles in line. The Ruling Council maintains the patrols to prevent giving the merchants a reason to hire large numbers of guards that could grow into private armies.

By decree of the Ruling Council, the Bazaar contains no permanent structures. No stall can remain in one spot longer than 66 days. The law is intended to keep the Bazaar from dwindling away aspermanent buildings replace the stalls. Also, the constant shuffling forces buyers to tour the Bazaar, searching for favored stalls or merchants.

Fights and covert sabotage are common since vendors jostle for more space for their booths or try to avoid being relegated to a bad location. While merchants are not allowed to openly sell their space at the Bazaar, wise merchants arrange to trade spots with other established vendors for favors.

Merchants of all races and lands are welcome in the Bazaar, and shoppers can get almost anything they desire in its curtained booths and stalls, given enough patience and money. The stalls carry goods and services that range from the mundane to the wondrous. Tailors, potters, and crafters of every stripe can be found in the twisting paths of the Bazaar. Surgeons, potions, and herbal medicines can also be found there by those who want to avoid seeking healing from the priestesses of Lolth. Some vendors even sell wines, cheeses, and other exotics from the surface lands, and one is able to send and receive messages to and from the world above.

Living commodities can also be purchased in the Bazaar, and many drow go there to hire mercenaries and outlander wizards. While slaves can be bought there, most purchasers looking for such goods go to the Braeryn to fill those needs.

Bhaelundryn's Bestiary

Underdark Hostler

Heavily guarded by a dozen drow guards and gnoll overseers, this stall provides pack lizards and riding-lizard mounts, including the harnesses, goads, leadlines, and carrying frames for the creatures. VhurnBhaelundryn, an old, fat, affable, and heavilyscarred drow warrior, always has one of each sort oflizard harnessed and ready, but the cost is astronomical The fee does include immediate help from the overseers, however, in delaying pursuit, patrols, and anything up to angry high priestesses. In addition tobeasts, Vhurn sells "underdark packs" for adventur-ing in the Underdark and is knowledgeable about places to buy other gear and weapons.

Dhode's Fine Piwafwis

Tailor and Clothier

Dhode Lu’orz is a tailor who sells all manner of clothing cut in drow fashions, but he specializes in making piwafwis. He staffs this stall with six apprentices who he treats as little more than slaves. Dhode has a number of contacts in Sorcere willing to add enchantments to a piwafwi if the price is right.

Quild's Mobile Parlor

Information Broker

This stall is little more than a bench and a cart full of cheap trinkets. Quild, a wiry, muscled male drow, moves his cart and bench regularly to follow shifts in traffic around the Bazaar. He engages non-drow and other males with nonstop chatter while he works but is quiet and submissive before female drow. Quild is an excellent source for rumors and gossip, and he can give direction to most locales in and around the city. Of course, generous tips greatly enhance the accuracy of the information.

Sense of Sensuous Scents

Perfumery

The mixture of scents wafting on the light breeze of Menzoberranzan ensures that shoppers smell this stall long before they see it. Rauva Zoldyth, a female drow, sells a wide variety of incense, from bricks that burn in braziers to sticks that smolder slowly. She also sells oils and candles, most of which are treated to burn with a low eldritch-colored flame that won't hurt sensitive drow eyes. Rauva notes which priestesses buy what incense and how much, and discreetly sells this information to those who might be interested in knowing what houses are preparing certain rituals.

Shimmerdark's Decanter

Vintner & Alchemist

Named for its handsome, charming (and smart-mouthed) young drow proprietor, this stall stocks rare and fine potables from all over the Realms. Daelein Shimmerdark carries a wide selection, from fortified wines of the Sword Coast to hard liquors made by the dwarves. Daelein offers love potions and sleep poison to rich and discreet shoppers. For a small fee,he will also provide directions on the best places to sell stolen goods.

Whispers in the Dark

Courier

A human wizard named Fethlorn Kelapanch set up shop in the Bazaar late in the Spellplague era,specializing in delivering messages around the city. Young drow commoners, especially orphans, camp outside his stall, waiting for a chance to run a message and make a few coins. Fethlorn also has connections with many caravan masters and can arrange for messages to be delivered to far-off locations in the Underdark or even to the surface. He can also arrange for messengers to run the missive directly, but this is ruinously expensive. A number of spells and rituals for magical communication are at his disposal, allowing him to contact virtually anyone in Faerûn, including in the World Above.

EASTMYR:

Battered Beholder

Arms and Hardware

The inside of this weapons shop is almost as battered as the beholder (said to be Many Eyes) on the sign at the store front. The inventory varies widely from day to day.and the shop fences goods with no questions asked. A male dwarf named Olask Dhauluin runs the Beholder. Olask came to Menzoberranzan shortly after the War of the Spider Queen and remains there throughout the Spellplague era, which is a good indicator of his caution and deviousness. Olask lives in the floors above the shop, using monsters to guard it during non-business hours, when they are allowed to roam freely.

Calask's Hands

Hairstylist

This hair salon is named for the male human who founded the business during the Sable Years, Myrlyth Calask. His shop survived him, passing to a male drow commoner named Filraen after the War of the Spider Queen. The clientele claims that Filraen's delicate drow fingers are much better than Calask's, but Filraen keeps the name because of its novelty, which attracts customers. Filraen is secretly a spy for Bregan D'aerthe. He relays messages to other agents and reports on what he overhears. He never takes any action that could expose his cover.

Darkled Depths

Tavern

Located across from the abandoned House Kenaf incompound is the Darkled Depths, one of the most popular taverns in the city. The depth is a higher-class establishment than the drinking pits, though it does admit non-drow. It is renowned for its glowing drinks made from phosphorescent lichen and a wide variety of stuffed mushrooms. The tavern fills four floors carved from the interior of a stalagmite. One wide winding stair connects the floors, but several open locations allow drow to levitate from one floor to another. In addition to music and singing, the depths' features shadow plays performed on an illuminated canvas. The owner is a commoner drow female named Kialara, who oversees an almostentirely male staff.

Dylchanta's Furfeathers

Massage House

The best massage house in Eastmyr, Dylchanta's Furfeathers regularly hosts massage parties for large groups. The parlor is run by Dylchanta, a female drow commoner, who is assisted by a staff of a dozen masseuses evenly split between genders. Dylchantahas no aspirations for nobility, only for the wealth as successful business can bring and the influence that wealth can buy. Some in Eastmyr whisper that she ensures that Furfeathers remains the only good massage house in Eastmyr through threats and violence, but nothing has ever been proven. Her principal clients are members of House Hunzrin, but on any given day, members of any of the lesser houses and common families can be found there.

Narbondel's Shadow

Rooming House

Narbondel's Shadow is one of the two surviving rooming houses that cater to non-drow visitors in the city. Narbondel's Shadow is very expensive, but the service is excellent. Rates include all meals, basic drink, stabling, and a private room with a magical light source. A human adventurer named Morl founded the rooming house shortly before the Time of Troubles. He left the place to his son, but in the late Spellplague era, it is run by a halfling named Dalfred Noakes.

Dalfred had a violent encounter with a young Hunzrin noble, which left him scarred and without his left ear. He has never forgotten or forgiven the noble. To this day, he makes full use the rooming house's prime location overlooking the Clawrift, and a connected small cave system that does not join up with Dark Dominion, to smuggle goods and hide people fleeing angry drow nobles. Dalfred also has contacts throughout Eastmyr and Braeryn for clients looking to discreetly hire or purchase needed magic, healing, weapons, and other gear. He plays a dangerous game that will likely get him killed in the near future.

NARBONDELLYN:

Red Tears

Cartel of Gem-Cutters & Moneylenders

Red Tears is a secretive consortium of lesser merchants that have banded together against the most conspicuous and haughty merchant houses of Menzoberranzan. This cartel of “dealers in the shadows”was formed in the Year of the Vitriolic Sage (1047DR) by a sardonic one-eyed drow known as Farseeing Phurn. Phurn is credited by those in the know for fomenting the bitter rivalry between prominent gem-cutting Houses Belek'tyr and Shadalun-a feud that has resulted in countless assassinations and significant loss of profits over the decades. Today, Red Tears is an expansive criminal organization with a coterie of smugglers, fences, racketeers, thugs, and cut throats operating throughout much of the city. Phurn governs his illicit empire from his compound in central Narbondellyn, carved from the ruins of House Tuin'Tarl. The organization takes its name from a rare teardrop-shaped gemstone of unusually-vivid, blood-crimson hue in Phurn's possession.

Brothers Jaszarr

Perfumers

Narbondellyn is home to the wealthiest (and most expensive) perfumers in the city. In the crowded,damp underground, perfuming is an art born of necessity. The best drow scents mingle with less desirable smells to mute everything into a pleasurable background. The brothers Dhellorn and Dirziir Jaszarr are together regarded as the finest purveyors of perfume in the city. Sold only to the finest drow of high society, their scents are woven with magical compulsions that make them more than simple cosmetics. In the right hands, such a perfume is the key to power and influence-two of every drow's favorite things. Unknown to all but a discreet clientele, the talents of the brothers Jaszarr extend to the crafting of toxic potions and ointments as well. For a hefty sum, these poisons-often seamlessly blended into their exotic perfumes-can cripple or slay a rival with little chance of detection.

Feathered Masqueax

Theater and Festhall

Unlike most playhouses in the city, which stage low-brow comedies, the Feathered Masqueax prides itself on hosting only innovative, well-acted dramas. Mostastonishing for revelers in attendance is the fact that many of the actors in the troupe are, in fact, undead; Their performances flawless and eerily lifelike. At show's end, privileged clientele are welcomed back-stage to enjoy food, libations, and the company of performers they fancy.

The owner and proprietor of the theatre company is an enigmatic male drow named Phaless. Nearly seven feet tall and always shrouded in a dark, blood-splattered robe resembling a funeral shroud, Phaless strikes an imposing figure. A tiny animated skeleton pendant pinned to his robe reveals to those in the know that the drow is a deathsinger, a rare bardic practitioner renowned for songs of dark glory and necromancy.

Black Sapphire Bath

Public Bathhouse

One of a dozen public baths scattered about the city,the Black Sapphire Bath is primarily a gathering place for males seeking to rid themselves of a day's sweat and grime, not to mention a place to socialize and relax in leisurely comfort away from the over-bearing presence of females. Patrons can be bathed by servants or left alone as they wish. Many fires keep the octagonal pools warm, its steaming mineral water scented with a choice of fragrances. Although not a festhall, there are no rules against guests enjoying more amorous activities with each other or with the bathing staff if additional coin is forthcoming.

WEST WALL:

Elstearn's Escorts

Hireling Agency

As one of the few businesses that has flourished in West Wall, Elstearn's Escorts provides carte-blanch services of intelligent, well-groomed, and attractive drow of either gender to its discerning clientele. Although some clients avail themselves of the agency for simple carnal pleasures, the escort service's pool of diverse hirelings has a wide variety of skillsets useful to Menzoberranyr social climbers. Many are hired as well-spoken and charismatic escorts for social functions; others as guides and interpreters of outlanders visiting the city. Some even seek out Elstearn's Escorts for well-trained bodyguards when business takes them to dangerous parts of the city or for quick excursions into the surrounding Underdark.

Xeva's Den

Gaming Pavilion & Tavern

The common room of this drinking establishment offers its discerning patrons a quiet place to enjoy a relaxing game of sava, table dice (backgammon), or oldmen's bones (pick-up sticks). Gamers looking to make wagers can do so in Xeva's private rooms. Elderboy Aumon Baenre is a frequent guest at Xeva's, sometimes gambling away hundreds of platinum in an evening.

Source:

[mixing0]

Ideas for a potential (and ideal for my tastes) Kirby Party game!!

This'll be long, obviously, so I'm leaving everything under the cut.

At its core, the game is a literal copy-and-paste of classic Mario Party. Everyone moves around the board, gathering more of a select item than their competitors to win, with minigames sprinkled throughout. No differences there. The difference comes from what the objects are, in this case.

On the topic of stars:

Here, stars are replaced with food items, given out by Kawasaki who replaces Toad. Whenever Kawasaki is moved, through any means, he prepares a new, unique food item.

When you get to Kawasaki, you can spend 20 point-stars (the Kirby equivalent of coins) for whatever he offers. Or you could spend 25 point-stars to get a different food selected at random.

Why does this matter? Because you can eat these food items for special bonuses, offering a nice helping of strategy to the established norm. Eating them means you lose a point, however, so it should be used very carefully to be effective.

Outside of those, at least one food is offered that has no stat effects and is just your bog standard.

On the topic of items:

Originally, I had planned for most of the items to come straight from Mario Party 2, but after looking more closely into the item system of Parties 5-7 (mainly 6 because it serves as another big influence on the project), I fell in love with the nuance and strategy that could be employed.

With that in mind, I was thinking about revamping the item system and number of items to better fall in line with this style. However, I'll still share the old item lineup, just for personal reference:

Wheelies act as mushrooms, letting you roll two dice blocks, while Rex Wheelies let you roll three.

Warp Stars act as, well, Warp Blocks, letting you swap places with a random player.

The Dimension Mirror allows you to move backward along a board when used. (And this will be more costly, so as not to be absolutely broken like the Reverse Mushroom was.)

The Vat-luck moves Kawasaki to a different space.

The Noddy Network calls Nightmare upon a player of your choosing.

The Enticing Cheese calls Daroach, while the Stinky Cheese prevents Daroach from stealing from you.

The Dinner Bell warps you straight to Kawasaki.

The Invisibility Stone lets you walk through alternate pathways.

The Nebula Chest steals a random item.

The Dueler's Sword... is self-explanatory.

On the topic of boards:

I conceptualized 12 main boards for the game. At the moment, they are:

Augmented Area (Technology-themed.)

Foody Feilds (Grassland, Food-centric theming.)

Corruption Cavern (Mining cave theme.)

Dusky Drawings (Spooky Mansion + Art theme)

Basalt Boulevard (Fire/Lava theme)

Royalty Ring (Castle theme)

Headstrong Honky-tonk (A casino in Merry Magoland.)

Galvanized Garden

Sanguine Sands (Western theme)

Mauve Mountain

Impeccable Iceberg

Nightmare's Nexus (Space Theme)

I may end up removing some of these, adding more, or changing a few of these ideas around.

On the topic of characters:

The roster includes:

Kirby

King Dedede

Meta Knight

Bandana Dee

Marx

Gooey

Adeleine

Ribbon

Magolor

Taranza

Susie

Elfilin

With the following making an appearance as non-playable characters:

Kawasaki (as the host.)

Nightmare (filling Bowser's role.)

Escargoon (who owns the bank.)

Daroach (filling in for Boo.)

Mr. Shine and Mr. Bright (who operate the day/night cycle.)

and other well-known enemies (who serve the other roles as needed.)

Each playable character will have a unique outfit for every board except for two. No one will have a unique outfit on Basalt Boulevard, and everyone will have a unique outfit on Nightmare's Nexus.

The character that does not have a unique outfit on the given board plays an integral role at the end if they lose, triggering a boss fight that acts as a final minigame (sort of similar to the boss minigames in Mario Party 9).

And that's everything I had! I hope you guys like my ideas!

Oh, and be sure to look out for the art I'll be making for this in the future. I've already made a few things for it, but they're all so old now that I feel like revamping them.

[ratasum]

The Lion's Arch Free Traders [CADS]

Something of a unique guild, the Lion's Arch Free Traders operate under the mark of the infamous smuggler queen, Lady Makko. While all agents are independent and operate their own businesses, Makko has opened the Hammerhead Salon as a means for others in similar veins to her unique line of work to network and form alliances as necessary.

Marked by the possession of a basalt pin inset with small rubies and delicate lines of orichalcum, members of the guild gain access to the use of the salon, early access to and discounts on Makko's vast array of "difficult to obtain" goods, and the ability to share client lists among those who wish to do so.

More than anything else, however, the Lion's Arch Free Traders serves as protection. A gathering of powerful criminals has its disadvantages, but it also makes for a strong alliance, discouraging fellows from selling out guildmates to the Lionguard for their own benefit and strongly frowning on backstabbing. As a united front, they can present one another as "legitimate" businessfolk when necessary, allowing members to operate free of harassment.

The guild's co-founder is the dramatic owner of the Bayside Boutique, Oskar Garoldsen, Makko's long time friend and occasional business partner.

[belfasttransfersandtours]

Journey to the Giant's Causeway: A Belfast Day Trip

There are a ton of things to do in Belfast, the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland. The RMS Titanic was built in Belfast, and the city is probably best remembered for the bloodshed and suffering that occurred there during The Troubles in the latter half of the 20th century. The Titanic saga has captivated Belfast for more than a century. 

The enormous hulk of the ship formerly towered over the docks in east Belfast during the years it was being built, and it is believed that on the day of launch, the entire city partied and celebrated. A business called Belfast Walking Tour provides a selection of escorted walking tours in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Local experts who are passionate about the city and its history lead their trips. There are several excursions available from Belfast Walking excursions, including the following:

The Titanic Quarter, City Hall, and St. George's Market are just a few of the major sights included on the Best of Belfast Highlights Tour.

The Troubles and the Titanic disaster are just two examples of the city's difficult past that are covered in the tour "A History of Terror."

Visit some of the filming locations for the well-known television program Game of Thrones on this tour.

During this trip, passengers ride in a vintage black taxi cab as the driver tells them about the history and culture of the city.

It is highly recommended that you choose Belfast Transfers and Tours if you are considering visiting Belfast. It's a fantastic way to discover the city's past, present, and attractions.

The Typical Crucial Elements of Belfast Walking Tours

Typically, these tours are led by knowledgeable guides who give anecdotes, information, and viewpoints regarding Belfast's past and present. They give guests a fun and instructive experience and can deepen their awareness of the history and culture of the city. You may find numerous tour companies in the city that provide various tour kinds to fit your tastes if you're interested in taking a Belfast Walking Tour. 

Cultural Tours

The history of Belfast, particularly its industrial past, the Troubles (a time of unrest in Northern Ireland), and the city's contribution to shipbuilding, most famously the Titanic, are topics that are covered on many walking tours in Belfast.

Historical Tours

Some excursions place a strong emphasis on Belfast's cultural highlights, including its thriving music, artistic, and literary scenes.

Campaign Tours

Some tours in Belfast examine the political aspects of the city, including murals and locations connected to the Troubles, in light of the city's history of political struggle and peace-building initiatives.

Theme-Based Tours

Belfast Walking Tours might be thematic, concentrating on certain subjects like cuisine, architecture, or the city's nautical heritage.

Personalized Tours 

Several tour operators provide bespoke excursions to allow customers to customize their trip to their interests.

Tour of Belfast and Giants Causeway: The Best of Northern Ireland

A geological feature called the Giant's Causeway is made up of more than 40,000 interconnecting basalt columns. Over 60 million years ago, a volcanic eruption is thought to have produced it. The various sizes and styles of the columns combine to form a truly extraordinary and breathtaking scene. 

The Belfast to Giants Causeway Tour is a full-day excursion that transports tourists from Belfast to the Giant's Causeway, a site that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, the trip frequently makes stops at additional sites such as the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This tour is a fantastic way to explore some of Northern Ireland's most stunning and well-known sights. 

This tour is appropriate for visitors of all ages and interests. These excursions offer a wonderful chance to take in Northern Ireland's natural beauty, learn about its geological history, and immerse in the local mythology and culture. They are a well-liked option for travelers wanting to experience the area's breathtaking coastline and distinctive geological treasures.

[melbmemories]

1920 /30s - The old Quarry the Sunshine Plaza is built on which previously was used by Massey-Ferguson/HV McKay as a dumping pit for Foundry and machinery waste.

The Sunshine Harvester Works quarry was located on the corner of Service and George Streets, Sunshine. This site was originally a commercially-operated basalt quarry which extracted blue metal to construct roads, railways and concrete. The size of the quarry was 1.5 acres and approximately 100 ft. deep. The company purchased the quarry from Mr. W.T Roberts in 1951 and used it to dump waste.

[rainbowgod666]

12 galaxy marb- (noises of still trying to go back to childhood whimsy) bruh back here that shit was probably 3 large pieces of basalt. AND I MEAN THE ONE FROM THE INTERNAL [NO ENGLISH WORD FOR "MARCIAPIEDE"] (that was clearly there because the school expanded) (probably) (yes we had mining operations back in elementary wtf is a europe anyway)

Exactly 20 years ago (give or take a few days) like most French schoolchildren I was given a piggy bank to collect yellow coins (small change). It was a charity campaign called Opération Pièces Jaunes, to help hospitalised children, but my classmates & I were quite indifferent to the charity aspect because all we cared about was the fact that our teacher started giving us a candle in the shape of President Jacques Chirac every time we returned our little box filled with coins. 

We were completely enraptured by those candles and the way the president’s face would start melting hideously if we let them burn long enough. Without any kind of deliberation among ourselves we turned it into a class-wide contest—it was obvious to everyone that the point of the Yellow Coins charity campaign was to win many little Chiracs and melt them to make the face of our president as freakishly deformed as possible. We exchanged them for pogs and marbles. We had recently learnt about the Plague in history class, with great relish, hence one lucky girl who managed to obtain a particularly monstrous half-melted face with a big wax bubble reminiscent of a bubo sold it way above the going rate, for 12 galaxy marbles—a fortune. (I was among the losers of this auction, and commented in my diary, with deep regret, “It’s just what it would look like if the President had the bubonic plague!”) Every day after school we went round town begging passersby for coins with something akin to mania in order to get more Chiracs to burn into ever ghastlier shapes. An old lady we ambushed in front of the church praised us warmly for our charitable spirit.

Eventually our teacher ran out of candles and this odd chapter of my childhood ended as abruptly as it had started. Our class was congratulated in front of the whole school for being by far the most ardently devoted to the cause (we got ~15kg of coins.) I wonder if the principal asked our teacher what her secret was to make us collect a truly astonishing amount of coins compared to the other classes, and how he reacted when she replied that she motivated us with busts of the President. One teacher gave a Carambar for a full box of coins, another believed that helping sick children should be incentive enough, but our teacher, an expert in child psychology, was alone in her conviction that the best way to go about this was to hand out human wax effigies for her students to burn.

[stonecrushersale]

Sand Making Plant For Sale in the USA

In recent years, the demand for high-quality sand, particularly for construction and industrial applications, has surged in the United States. As a result, the market for sand making plants—facilities designed to produce manufactured sand or crushed sand—has grown significantly. These plants are critical in meeting the demand for construction-grade sand, which is used in concrete production, asphalt mixing, and other key building materials. If you’re looking for a sand making plant for sale in the USA, this article will guide you through what to consider, the types of plants available, and the benefits of investing in such equipment.

Understanding Sand Making Plants

A sand making plant, also known as a sand production plant or artificial sand plant, is a facility that processes various raw materials, such as granite, basalt, limestone, and other stones, to produce high-quality sand. The primary function of these plants is to produce crushed or manufactured sand that mimics the properties of natural sand. These plants typically consist of multiple stages of processing, including crushing, screening, washing, and sometimes, drying.

The key equipment involved in a sand making plant includes:

Jaw Crusher: Used for the primary crushing of large rocks.

Impact Crusher or Cone Crusher: Secondary crusher that further break down materials.

Vibrating Screens: Used for sieving sand and separating different sizes.

Sand Washing Machines: To remove impurities like clay, dust, and silt.

Belt Conveyors: For material handling between different stages of the process.

Sand Making Machines (Vertical Shaft Impactors): These machines are specifically designed to create the final manufactured sand by crushing rocks into finer particles.

Types of Sand Making Plants Available in the USA

In the USA, there are various types of sand making plants available for sale, ranging from small-scale operations to large, industrial plants. The right choice depends on the specific needs of the buyer, including production capacity, the type of raw materials available, and the intended application of the sand.

1. Small-Scale Sand Making Plants

These plants are typically designed for smaller operations, often with a production capacity of less than 100 tons per hour. They are ideal for smaller construction companies or operations located in areas where natural sand deposits are scarce. The key advantage of small-scale plants is their lower initial investment and operational costs.

2. Medium-Scale Sand Making Plants

These are mid-sized operations with a production capacity ranging from 100 to 500 tons per hour. They are suited for medium-sized construction projects, such as road building, and can handle a broader range of raw materials. These plants often feature more sophisticated processing equipment for higher efficiency and finer sand output.

3. Large-Scale Sand Making Plants

These industrial-grade plants are capable of processing 500 tons or more per hour. Large-scale sand production plants are often used by major construction firms or mining operations. They include high-end machinery and are designed for continuous, high-volume production. These plants are typically automated and optimized for maximum efficiency and output.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Sand Making Plant in the USA

When looking for a sand making plant for sale, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best equipment for your needs:

1. Production Capacity

Determine how much sand you need to produce on a daily or monthly basis. Larger plants typically have higher upfront costs but can process more material over time. Smaller plants are more affordable but might not be able to meet the demand of large-scale projects.

2. Raw Material Availability

Ensure that the plant you purchase is capable of handling the type of raw materials available in your area. Some plants are better suited for hard rocks like granite or basalt, while others are designed for softer materials like limestone or sandstone.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy consumption is a key factor in the operational costs of a sand making plant. Look for plants with energy-efficient equipment to reduce long-term operating costs. Modern machines often have improved technology that reduces power consumption while maintaining high performance.

4. Automation and Control Systems

Advanced plants come with automated systems for monitoring and controlling production processes. These systems improve efficiency, reduce the need for manual labor, and enhance the overall quality of the manufactured sand.

5. Maintenance and Support

Ensure that the supplier offers strong after-sales support, including maintenance services, spare parts availability, and operator training. A good maintenance plan is essential for reducing downtime and ensuring the plant runs smoothly.

6. Compliance and Regulations

Check local regulations regarding environmental and operational standards. Some sand making plants incorporate dust control systems and water recycling features to comply with environmental regulations.

Advantages of Investing in a Sand Making Plant

Investing in a sand making plant comes with several advantages, especially for companies involved in the construction and mining industries:

Sustainability: Manufactured sand is increasingly seen as a more sustainable alternative to natural sand. The production of artificial sand helps conserve natural resources, reduces environmental degradation, and mitigates the negative effects of sand mining on local ecosystems.

Customization: Sand making plants can be tailored to produce sand with specific properties, such as different grain sizes or grades, which can be important for particular applications (e.g., fine sand for concrete production).

Profitability: With the increasing demand for construction materials, a sand making plant offers significant profitability potential, especially in areas where natural sand is scarce or expensive.

Reduced Transportation Costs: By establishing a sand production facility closer to construction sites or urban areas, companies can reduce transportation costs associated with sourcing and delivering natural sand.

Conclusion

A sand making plant is an essential piece of equipment for companies involved in construction, concrete production, and other industries that rely on high-quality sand. If you’re considering purchasing a sand making plant for sale in the USA, it’s crucial to assess your needs carefully, from production capacity to raw material availability. With the right plant, you’ll be able to meet growing demand for manufactured sand, improve efficiency, and ensure long-term profitability. Whether you’re looking for a small-scale operation or a large industrial plant, investing in a sand making plant can give your business a competitive edge in the thriving construction market.

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Explore The Most Famous Icelandic Destinations with a Package Tour in a Single Day

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, has stirring geographies and natural miracles. Single-day package tours or custom-made Iceland private tours provide an excellent opportunity to experience some of the country’s most iconic destinations without the stress of planning. Whether you’re exploring volcanic craters, glacier lagoons, or geothermal marvels, these tours ensure an unforgettable journey for travelers short on time.

Here’s a look at some of the best destinations you can explore in just one day!

1. The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the most popular route in Iceland which offers travelers a perfect overview to the beautiful attractions and natural miracles.

Þingvellir National Park: It is a World Heritage Site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Geysir Hot Springs: Witness the power of Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting boiling water into the air.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic sights which roars with glacial water from the nearby Langjökull glacier.

2. South Coast Adventures

For those drawn to Iceland’s dramatic coastline and cascading waterfalls, a South Coast tour are a must:

Seljalandsfoss: An exclusive waterfall you can walk behind for a remarkable sight.

Skógafoss: Another impressive waterfall with a towering drop and climbing opportunities for panoramic views.

Black Sand Beach of Reynisfjara: Famous for its basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Some tours include a short hike or a glacier walk for a closer look at this icy giant.

3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

It is also Iceland in Miniature,” and includes the followings:

Kirkjufell Mountain is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland, known for its exceptional form and near waterfalls.

Arnarstapi Village: Here you will get a chance to explore a charming coastal area with dramatic rock formations and rich birdlife.

4. Reykjavik and Blue Lagoon Combo package

For those who want to mix urban exploration with relaxation, this Iceland Private Tour package is perfect:

Reykjavik Highlights: Explore landmarks such as Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja and the Sun Voyager monument.

Blue Lagoon: End your day soaking in the soothing, milky-blue geothermal waters surrounded by a rugged lava field.

Why Choose a Package Tour with Us?

Discover Iceland is one of the trusted private tour operators which allows you to have a tour guide to have full attention to you for your selected tour package.

We assure you to take care of driving on icy roads or navigating unfamiliar terrain — everything is planned for you. Our expert guides will help you learn about Iceland’s history, culture, and geology from experienced local guides. We provide the most comfortable tour options with SUVs or minibus buses, making your journey stress-free. No need to worry as you will get a great travel experience with a carefully planned itinerary and you can see more in less time.

Tips for Your One-Day Adventure

Dress for the Weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so wear layers and waterproof clothing.

Pack Snacks and Water: While most tours include stops for meals, having something on hand can be helpful.

Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture every moment of Iceland’s stunning beauty!

Moreover you can book popular tours fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons earlier.

Ready to Explore Iceland in a Day?

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or a casual traveler, Discover Iceland offers Iceland Private Tours and Iceland’s single-day package tours that cater to all. They’re a fantastic way to experience the magic of this Nordic island while making the most of your time.

Book your tour today and get ready for a day of awe-inspiring sights, fresh air, and unforgettable memories!