Lost In Solitude: 2011

Article of the Day

Martian Terraforming

Since the concept of terraforming—making a planet's environment suitable for human habitation—was first proposed, Mars has been one of the primary hypothetical candidates for its application. Although Mars may have had a relatively earthlike environment early in its history, experts disagree on whether present-day Mars can be adapted to support human life. Terraforming Mars would require at least two major changes: building up the atmosphere and heating it. How could such changes be achieved? More... Discuss

Article of the Day provided by The Free Dictionary

This Day in History

Donald Duck Debuts in The Little Wise Hen (1934)

Clad in his signature sailor shirt and cap, the perennially pants-less cartoon character Donald Duck made his debut in Disney's The Wise Little Hen. His comically short temper and distinct voice quickly endeared him to audiences, and he became a regular character in Mickey Mouse cartoons. Donald remains quite popular in Scandinavia, as evidenced by the Christmas Eve tradition of watching a TV special featuring him. What Academy Award-winning 1943 cartoon showed Donald saluting Hitler? More... Discuss

This Day in History provided by The Free Dictionary

Today's Birthday

Cole Porter (1891)

Though pushed by his grandfather to pursue law, Porter studied music at Harvard and in Paris. A gifted composer and witty lyricist, he wrote a dazzling series of successful film scores and Broadway musicals from the 1920s to the 1950s, including the musicals Anything Goes and Kiss Me, Kate. His most popular songs include "Night and Day" and "Let's Do It." A 1937 accident required him to undergo more than 30 operations, but he continued composing until 1958. Why did he stop? More... Discuss

Today's Birthday provided by The Free Dictionary

In the News

Play pennant discuss
Definition:	(noun) A long flag; often tapering.
Synonyms:	waft, streamer
Usage:	The boy had fastened a brightly-colored pennant to the front of his bike.