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A labor saving way to monitor vast rangelands

USDA researchers explore the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to monitor changing land-use patterns in western rangelands. The results show that aerial data can be comparable to information gathered through ground-based surveys, with potential applications for erosion control and invasive species monitoring.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPhotogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing·DateSep 27, 2011

Coal-based jet fuel poised for next step

Researchers have developed a coal-based jet fuel, provisionally designated JP900, which produces almost the same Btu as conventional fuels. The fuel has improved flash point, lower viscosity, and higher smoke point, making it suitable for existing engines and interest both commercial and military users.

Spy satellite photos document desert plant invasion

Scientists use declassified spy satellite images and aerial photographs to document an increase in both shrub numbers and area in a former arid grassland. The study reveals that honey mesquite bushes now dominate large areas of the Southwest, with most shrubs holding their ground despite early droughts.

Cranfield joins the UN fight against land mines

Cranfield University is launching an eight-week management program for local land mine action managers, supported by the United Nations Development Programme and UK Government funding. The course aims to improve existing resource utilization in mine clearance management, helping to reduce the impact of land mines on affected countries.

Tougher Than Silicon

Researchers have created an alloy that can handle high-power and high-frequency microelectronic devices better than pure silicon-carbide. The alloy conducts twice as much current, making it a promising material for next-generation electronics.