On September 15, 1973, Mission Control sent a song to the Skylab station that begins with a scream. It is 'Paralyzed,' performed by the Texan artist Legendary Stardust Cowboy, and it was selected to wake up the Skylab 3 crew. The impact was immediate, generating a jolt that extended beyond orbit, waking people both on the station and at the ground control center.
This track represents an unusual example of a space alarm clock that failed to achieve its purpose. After the initial scream, the vocalist continues with something that can barely be identified as lyrics, accompanied by a disjointed soundtrack. Astronaut Owen Garriott reportedly compared the resulting sound to the noise of a unified order from American marines.
The practice of using music to wake up astronauts began in mid-December 1965, during the Gemini 6 mission. Singer Jack Jones, a Grammy winner, recorded a version of 'Hello, Dolly' with modified lyrics to interact with Wally Schirra and Tom Stafford. Although other Gemini missions also received music, this routine only firmly established itself starting with Apollo 10.
Initially, the intention behind this practice was not scientific; it aimed to foster team spirit between the crew and the support team on Earth. Only later did science validate NASA's approach. A study published in the journal PLOS One demonstrated that waking up with melodic sounds decreases reports of sleep inertia, which is the feeling of disorientation that tries to keep a person in bed.
The repertoire used has always been quite varied. In the Apollo missions, artists such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and the Tijuana Brass were included, along with sporadic moments of classical music and American university anthems. There was also room for the Muppet skit 'Pigs in Space,' and a 'Good Morning Discovery!' recorded by Robin Williams. For the Artemis 2 mission, scheduled for 2026, the musical selection was made available on Spotify.
Norman Carl Odam, the artist behind Legendary Stardust Cowboy, was born in Lubbock, Texas. The recording of 'Paralyzed' took place in Fort Worth in 1968, was released by Mercury Records, and reached the Billboard 200 chart before being taken into orbit, despite frequently appearing on lists of the worst recordings ever made.
However, the character left an unexpected legacy. David Bowie, Odam's fellow Mercury label artist in the late 1960s, removed the term 'Stardust' from Ziggy Stardust, his 1972 alter ego. In 2002, he recorded 'I Took a Trip on a Gemini Spaceship,' using the Texan's second single on the album Heathen.
Modern dermatology utilizes various laser procedures to reduce wrinkles and scars. These methods physically affect the skin, eliminating pigment spots and stimulating fibroblasts—cells responsible for producing collagen, which provides skin elasticity.
However, according to a study conducted by scientists from the USA and the UK, the laser is capable of performing another function: activating or deactivating specific skin genes, thereby improving skin properties.
Twenty-two volunteers aged 20 to 64 participated in the experiment. They underwent three sessions using a standard dermatological laser. One month after the procedure, scientists took a skin sample from each participant and analyzed it.
The results showed that the application of the laser led to the activation or deactivation of 635 DNA loci. At these sites, the laser was able to reverse 84% of the genetic changes associated with skin aging.
Haier has launched its new F17 line of washing machines in India. One of the most distinctive features of this model is the touch screen, which can rotate by 15, 20, or 25 degrees. This allows the screen to be tilted depending on the user's height and viewing position, reducing the need to frequently bend down when operating the machine.
However, this washing machine, priced at 75,990 rupees, possesses more than just a unique screen. It is also equipped with AI Wash, Smart Dosing, Steam Wash functions, and a drying function in one device. This raises the question of whether these features truly simplify daily life, or if they are merely a way to make an expensive machine more 'smart.'
The main claim of the F17 relates to the AI Wash function. According to the company, the machine offers an optimal washing program based on parameters such as laundry load, fabric type, and stain presence. Thus, the need for manual selection of modes—cotton, mixed fabrics, delicate cycle, or any other—may significantly decrease.
The company provided examples of common stains, such as milk, coffee, dirt, and sweat. Depending on the stain type, the machine can automatically select the corresponding wash cycle. The use of AI here differs from systems like ChatGPT; its task is to automatically adjust the wash based on data received from the machine's sensors. Haier describes its AI washing machine as a device that regulates washing considering the load weight, fabric type, and stain.
The F17 incorporates the Smart Dosing function. This means the machine itself determines the required amount of detergent for each wash based on the load. This can be useful for those who sometimes add too much, and sometimes too little, powder. The company claims this helps reduce detergent consumption.
Furthermore, there is the Essence Wash function. When used, the detergent is first mixed with water to create a solution, which is then applied to the clothing. Following this, rinsing with clean water and subsequent rinsing stages take place, which helps remove detergent foam residue.
The F17 is not just a washing machine; it is a combined washer-dryer model. This means that after washing, the clothes can be dried in the same appliance. This capability is particularly relevant for homes where laundry takes a long time to dry due to rain or high humidity. According to the company, the user can select drying settings according to the fabric type and load, eliminating the need to purchase a separate dryer.
Nevertheless, it should be noted that having a Washer-Dryer function does not guarantee that all types of clothing will dry as perfectly as in the sun. The type of clothing and the volume of the load have a significant impact on the drying process.
For those who still use a wired mouse, this could be the ideal time to consider the transition. The market for wireless gamer mice has advanced significantly in recent years, offering low latency, notable battery life, and high-precision sensors—features that were previously restricted to the most expensive models. Three options currently on sale on Amazon have been gathered, recommended for those who want high performance without sacrificing comfort.
The Cobra Pro represents Redragon's proposal for users seeking mobility without compromising performance. This mouse features wireless connectivity, a high-precision sensor, an ergonomic design intended for long gaming sessions, and customizable RGB lighting, making it a robust option for those prioritizing cost-benefit in the gaming segment.
Another highlighted model is the G305, considered a lasting classic. It incorporates Logitech's LIGHTSPEED technology, which ensures a wireless connection with latency comparable to a wired one. Equipped with the HERO sensor, it reaches up to 12,000 DPI and has six programmable buttons, catering to both casual and competitive players. Its light weight and excellent battery life make it hard to ignore during promotions.
The Attack Shark X11 stands out due to its great adaptability, as it supports three connection methods: 2.4G, Bluetooth, and wired USB, allowing compatibility with almost any setup. Additionally, it comes with a base featuring RGB lighting, which serves a dual function: charging the mouse and adding a visual element to the desk. The set is complemented by an ergonomic design and a high-precision sensor.
It is important to note that offers like these have limited validity and stock can run out at any moment. If any of these models have sparked your interest, it is recommended to check the conditions on Amazon via the provided link to ensure purchase before the promotion ends.
