Photo: Flickr user lifeontheedge

Saturday, May 19, 2007

Gliese 581 c is a newly discovered extrasolar planet orbiting the red dwarf star Gliese 581. It appears to be the first extrasolar planet discovered in the hypothetical habitable zone surrounding its star, where surface temperatures might maintain liquid water and therefore be suitable for life as known on Earth.

Thursday, May 17, 2007

The founder of Metafilter has some tips for building a healthy online community. Of relevance to Wikipedians:

When making moderation decisions, don't quote Terms of Service verbatim or legal code. Be honest and phrase things exactly like you would if you were talking to someone standing in front of you. "Hey man, we appreciate your enthusiasm, but what you're doing is uncool because..." is a lot better than "As per the user agreement, you must cease harrassment of other members per Section 10.9.a..."