Based upon recent relativistic theory, the researcher describes the search for tachyons, particles having velocities greater than that of a light. The properties of these particles are speculated upon. The author delineates the difficulties anticipated in their detection and the assumptions underlying their methodology. (RR)

Discusses expanding user community seeking access to synchrotron radiation sources, properties/sources of synchrotron radiation, permanent-magnet technology and its impact on synchrotron radiation research, factors limiting power, the density of synchrotron radiation, and research results illustrating benefit of higher flux and brightness. Also…

To rely on coal and nuclear power as sources of energy is to narrow society's future options and to present numerous problems. Renewable solar energy, on the other hand, can preserve rather than reduce options. More jobs, rising self-reliance, and new equalities between nations will be the result. (RM)

Energy use is lowered in a new dormitory at Montclair State College (New Jersey). A five-story covered atrium reduces the exterior wall area, and inverted venetian blinds hung between the double glazed south windows reflect solar energy up to the concrete ceiling where it is stored until night. (Author/MLF)

Designed on a low budget and for low operating costs, an inner-city preschool building in Middletown (Connecticut) has south-facing windows that admit maximum solar heat in the winter. (MLF)

A solar heating, cooling, and hot water system for the addition to Escambia County High School in Atmore (Alabama) also serves as a statewide demonstration program. (Author/MLF)

Describes an earth-sheltered school in Reston (Virginia) and the savings in energy costs realized in the first three years of operation. An accompanying article profiles the school's principal. (WD)

Universities and colleges have two major roles: to reduce their own energy consumption and costs, and to develop and test new energy options. Alternative energy sources considered include solar energy, wind power, biomass, hydropower, ocean energy, geothermal heat, coal, and nuclear energy. (MLW)

Described are several aspects and methods of quantitatively measuring geologic time using a constant-rate natural process of radioactive decay. Topics include half lives and decay constants, radiogenic growth, potassium-argon dating, rubidium-strontium dating, and the role of geochronology in support of geological exploration. (DS)

Older cities represent models of energy efficiency. A research project that compares the performance of three different solar design approaches for older cities is described. (Author/MLF)

The design of the Lois Lensky Elementary School in Littleton, Colorado, incorporates three methods of capturing heat from the sun. (Author)

In a cross-sectional survey of 200 adults, less than half agreed with experts on the risks of radiation exposure; 75-90% thought that medical imaging providers should be highly regulated; and less than one-quarter knew that most radiation damage is not permanent. (SK)

Heavily ionizing charged particles produce radiation damage tracks in a wide variety of insulating materials. The experimental properties of these tracks and track recorders are described. The mechanisms by which the tracks are produced are discussed. (Author/KR)

Radon is a natural, chemically inert, radioactive gas that can seep to the surface from underground rocks. As many as 20,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. each year may be radon-caused. Screening a school for radon is not difficult and may be done on weekends. It's safer for students and staff to test and be sure. (MLH)

Discusses the discovery of radioactivity by Henri Becquerel in 1896. Describes his experiments and communications. (JRH)