For they have seen Aurora Borealis burning bright

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, shines above Bear Lake, Alaska United States Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joshua Strang

Five satellites are helping scientists understand what causes the Northern Lights. It involves a flux rope, which sounds like it should be the cable that'll help launch the space elevator.

Also in today's links: stolen feces, sacred stones, LaserPup, and more.

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June 2012: Invent Your Own Anything

The 6th annual Invention Awards are here, from an inflatable tourniquet to a better lobster trap to spring-loaded hocket skates. This issue is all about the celebration of invention.

Plus: Making synthetic biology breakthroughs in a garage, building a constantly-moving ping-pong table, and a ridiculously overpowered barbecue.

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