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European satellite designed to measure how fast the Earth's ice are melting

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Yesterday there was jubilation among the scientists of the European Space Agency (ESA) who tracked the launch from the European Space Operations Centre in Darmstadt, Germany. CryoSat-2, which was designed and built in France and Germany but masterminded by British scientists, blasted off on a Russian launcher rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan shortly before 3pm yesterday afternoon. Some time later, a tracking station in Africa picked up the satellite's signal, confirming that it had gone into orbit. CryoSat-2 is part of the ESA's Earth Explorers programme, involving seven spacecraft which will carry out innovative research about issues of pressing environmental concern. The melting ice of the poles and Greenland is considered one of the most pressing of all, with implications for ocean circulation patterns, the global climate and sea levels. If the land-based Greenland ice sheet were to melt completely, it would mean a global sea-level rise of 21 feet, while if

Non native mammal species are damaging the UK countryside

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The trust said some of the creatures have been in the UK for so long, they are thought of as indigenous. A number of non-native mammal species are damaging the UK countryside by eating crops and threatening wildlife, a conservation charity has warned. A report by the People's Trust for Endangered Species identified 14 problem species including rats , American mink and muntjac deer. It said it was important to stop the extinction of native species. American minks prey on water voles while grey squirrels, which were introduced to the UK in the 19th century carry the deadly squirrelpox virus and outcompete the native red squirrel when it comes to hunting for food and habitats. According to the report, two of the UK's fastest declining native species the red squirrel and the water vole - which has declined by 90% - are under threat by mammals introduced by humans in the last two centuries. The trust also warned the red-necked wallaby is capable of damaging capercaillie birds on Loc

70 Filipinos in Haiti want to come home

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70 Filipinos in Haiti have indicated their desire to come home after a powerful earthquake hit Port-au-Prince last week, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday. The DFA plans to put the Filipinos in a bus and bring them out of Haiti’s capital to Sto. Domingo, Dominican Republic.From there, the Pinoys will take a plane that would fly them home to Manila. Majority of those who want to be repatriated are women and children. They are concerned for their health , as well as their safety, the DFA said. One Filipino in Haiti, Godofredo Edquiban, urged the Philippine government to act quickly to bring them home. “I hope they hurry. Amoy patay na daga (It smells like dead rats),” According to Edquiban, Ambassador Macarthur Corsino had arranged for the date of their repatriation before returning to Cuba. He added that strong aftershocks are hampering rescue operations in Haiti. At least 4 Filipinos died in the Haiti earthquake including 3 members of the 10th Philippine Peacekeeping C

Andila Shopping Snowboarding Goggles

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Everybody has a different way to view the world.: Snowboarding Goggles When buying the superior Snowboard Goggles , the perfect fit must be attained. Only with such ideal match can the goggles' effectiveness and usability be measured and maximized. Goggles must be proportional to the contour of the snowboarder's face to get a great seal and protection from the harmful elements. There should be no gaps to prevent air from leaking inside. If you are riding with a helmet, it is critical for the goggles to fit well with the helmet. It is then advisable to consider using brands which make helmet-specific goggles that are particularly designed to fit within the frames of a helmet. These goggles oftentimes come with longer straps, which can cover the helmet's perimeter. For more convenience, buckle attachments are also provided. There are a lot of things to consider when buying Snowboarding Goggles. Keep these guidelines in mind so it will be easier to choose the right pair o

Dr. Jose Rizal Travels In Europe(Switzerland)

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Rizal in Switzerland Basel The Gothic Cathedral dominates the whole town of Basel. One of many picturesque old fountains to be found in Basel. Newly-erected Liberty Monument in Basel. General view of Basel, an industrial and trading town situated on the Rhine near the borders of France, Germany and Switzerland. Bayrische Bierhalle, one of the places visited by Rizal during his sojourn in Basel. Town Hall, as seen during the time of Rizal. Built during the 16th century, it is the most significant landmark of Basel. Town Hall, as it looks at present. Bern Rizal stayed in this hotel during his visit to Bern. This hotel is still existing with address at Bahnhofsplatz 11, opposite the railroad station of Bern. Old view of the Cathedral, dating from the 15th century. General view of Bern. It is considered as one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. Another view of Bern with the cathedral towering above the whole town. In the background can be seen the Swiss Alps. Geneva View of G