One Astronomer's Noise

I’m in major work-mode this week after a fabulous break in New York. I have just a few short weeks to get ready for a conference in early January, and I’m giving a talk! (*Insert Panic Mode Here*) So before I delve into my data in an effort to understand what the heck is going on in the universe, first there are a few fun things on the interwebs that entertain and inform…

First, Seth posted a great video about Iranian bloggers which, though only a couple of minutes long, was really, really moving. In related news, a few weeks ago, I was pointed to a New York Times interview with a girl rock band in Saudi Arabia. Stories of youths who dare to speak out (or rock out) despite oppressive regimes are incredibly inspiring to me.

Next, ack I can’t remember where I got this link from either since there are so many tabs open right now… Prop 8: The Musical! HI-larious. Again, just a couple minutes long, but totally worth it. Jack Black makes the funniest Jesus.

I already shared this on Google Reader, but I was so impressed with Sam’s “A Holly Jolly War” on Skepchick that I just have to link to it. Go read it. It’s well informed and passionately written.

Finally, go listen to this week’s Skepticality! Swoopy’s pre-interview monologue is totally spot on, and the guests are highly entertaining. It’s the two young women who got into the Disco’Tute and shared their story on their blogs, making Casey Luskin look like a bit of an ass.

Off to do science! (aka curse at my computer for hours on end…)