Images Dated 30th January 2006

ITER fusion research reactor

ITER fusion research reactor, computer artwork. ITER, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, is being designed to test the principles surrounding the generation of power from nuclear fusion, the energy source of stars. ITER comprises a toroidal (doughnut-shaped) chamber in which a plasma (pink) is contained by strong magnetic fields. A plasma is an ionised gas, and its ionisation makes it susceptible to electromagnetic fields. By magnetically compressing and igniting a plasma inside ITER, researchers hope to be able to study the best way of using it to generate electricity. Reactions are due to begin in 2016

© MIKKEL JUUL JENSEN / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

The Seahorse-class Autonomous Underwater Vehicle is moved into position

San Diego, California, January 30, 2006 - The Seahorse-class Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) is moved into position with Sea Fighter's (FSF-1) stern ramp during launch and recovery testing. At 28 feet, six inches, and weighing 10, 800 pounds, Seahorse is an untethered, unmanned, underwater robotic vehicle, capable of pre-programmed independent operations

© Stocktrek Images

CAN-2459

CAN-2459
Marcassite - France
Also known as thunder eggs and often mistaken for meteorites - They are sedimentary nodules formed over hundreds of million years at the bottom of oceans - Mostly made of iron sulfides - Used as firestarters by early prehistoric man
John Cancalosi

© John Cancalosi / ardea.com

Europe, European, France, Geology, Marcassite, Marcassites, Metals And Minerals, Stone, Stones