Author: breathonthewind

Northrop Grumman’s LEMV BLIMP Takes Flight at Lakehurst, NJ (Videos)

The Long Endurance Multi-Intelligence Vehicle (LEMV) has been an elusive ISR goal for the Department of Defense through numerous false starts and half-completed contracts, but on August 7th at 6:49 pm EST a new LEMV hybrid blimp first took to the air at Lakehurst Navel air station in NJ. The vehicle is based upon a design by Hybrid Air Vehicles, LTD, and developed by Northrop Grumman. Many new considerations have come into the design of this airship but there are some old myths to be dispelled as well. […]

BioLite Stove for Wilderness Heat and Electricity?

BioLite has been developing solid-fueled stoves with an unusual thermoelectric technology for several years. The camp stove, which started shipping in June, creates the ideal conditions to burn any local biofuel, rather than having to carry in a petrochemical-based fuel. While not designed for mystical caves, the pastel beauty of deserts, or snow-bound wonderlands with no usable vegetation. it is a perfect companion for a hike in the woods. […]

How to “Hot-Rod” an Electric Car

When we think electrical cars we are usually trying to be well grounded … or trying to save the Earth. Some cars are mostly for show. Others are tuned for performance. This “test” by Car and Driver is just plain fun. They raised the question of what could be done to a stock Nissan Leaf to make it drive more like a Porsche 911 Carrera S.

The EV Black Knight Rides Again: John Petersen on Mortal Enemies

In commerce, a black knight is someone who makes an unwelcome takeover bid. John Petersen is not an EV supporter. Rather, his disclosure exudes a contempt for the EV that is pervasive throughout his work, while he admits to previous commitment to lead-acid batteries and a present ownership in Axion Power. A recent article throws down the gauntlet as he tries to take over the EV conversation: the Black Knight rides again. […]

Perspectives on the Geothermal Energy Association Showcase in DC

The fourth annual GEA International Geothermal Energy Showcase concluded Wednesday, May 23, in Washington DC. The conference featured countries and projects in 6 different regions of the world: Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Turkey, Latin America, the Caribbean, and East Africa. Presentations by corporate and country leaders, for many of the projects, were very similar, but a few had unique challenges. Ultimately, what started out with policy, charts, and graphs ended up with a human face and concerns in Nevis and East Africa. The showcase was well-organized, resulting in a virtually flawless program. […]