Brave New World

First, way back in 2002, we reported on this crazy new kind of movie-making, called â€machinima,†that uses videogames and virtual worlds as platforms for creating animated films. Then we watched as the biggest public virtual world, Second Life, gained more and more traction-businesses exploded onto the scene, people made big money in virtual real estate, whole new social mores were established-and we sent ace reporter Annalee Newitz in-world to sum up the madness in our September 2006 feature story.

Then, we dipped our toes into Second Life with a Creative Commons-cosponsored music event, featuring PopSci contributing troubadour Jonathan Coulton. Giant squid frolicked onstage, robots sat in the audience, a dancing monkey-pony made an appearance†and we were hooked.

Which brings us to November 16, 2006, when we unveiled our very own virtual space in Second Life, the PopSci Future Lounge, sponsored by Nokia. The idea is that this space will be home to an ever-developing vision of the bright future ahead, complete with stunning 3D replicas of prototype technologies that won´t be available in the real world for years to come-but that users can see and try out for themselves in the virtual world today. We´ll also be hosting regular events where guests can schmooze with PopSci editors, relax and watch short films about the fun, geeky stuff we´re excited about right now, and hear some of the world´s top sci-tech innovators speak about their work. Ready to step into the virtual world? Get yourself an avatar and join us at [popsci.com/sl_lounge](http://www. Popsci.com/sl_lounge).

PopSci's Second Life coverage:

	**Your Second Life is Ready **Residents of one of the Internet's most populous virtual worlds shop, attend class-even run businesses. Soon you may do the same.
	**PopSci Rocks Second Life ** Check out some Creative Commons-licensed photos and audio from our recent night in the virtual world
	Machinima Resources **Move over, Pixar. A guide to making your own CG films in Second Life