Why Ash Is Abrasive, Beards Are Trustworthy, And Plant-Robot Hybrids Are Awesome. Le Science Friday.

Dead Zoo Walking

Mark your calendars, and brush up on your steampunk. The museum of museumship-- The Natural History Museum-- reopens its doors on Thursday the 29th of April. 

Trending topic: #ashtag

That's a Nasa photo of the Ash plume being monitored by the London Volcanic Ash Avisory Centre (for real, it exists).

Luckily, the Irish Times are putting the "why" back in "why is my flight cancelled":

What is volcanic ash?  Plumes of dust spewed out by volcanoes usually contain tiny particles of glass, pulverised rock and silicates. The result is a cloud of potentially deadly material resembling sandpaper.

Why is it a hazard to aviation?  The abrasive effect of the ash can strip off vital aerodynamic surfaces and paralyse an aircraft engine. Aircraft avionics and electronics can also be damaged.

So ash is abrasive, and beards are trustworthy? 

We trust people with beards more. Via Good.is.

 "The way you gain people's trust is to earn it over time by repeatedly proving that you deserve it. That, or grow a beard."

An Eerie TEDx coincidence?

Plink creator @Mark_Cummins presented at our third TEDxDublin last month.  You can watch the video here.

Then, Plink was bought by Google in their "first British acquisition".  It was even in da news-- (like the New York Times blog, The Financial Times, CNET and The Irish Times, etc.)

I mean, it would be cheeky to even suggest a correlation...

Plant-Robot Hybrid Awesomeness!

"A nomadic plant/robot hybrid that lives off industrial waste is a new model for sustainable living by Mexican artist Gilberto Esparza." (Via Museumstudies)

It's class, crochet.

Science Gallery is hosting a Crochet class this Saturday April 17th for you beginners.  No experience required.

And Lastly, Do you take this Geek?

For your slideshow enjoyment: A Chemistry-themed wedding.