[SunkenCiv]

"Lemonick stressed that they must seem new," which is ironic, because I've already posted a topic with coverage of this conference. This article is much better though.

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This false-color composite image, taken at a region of the rock outcrop dubbed "Shoemaker's Patio" near the MER Opportunity's landing site, shows finely layered sediments, which have been accentuated by erosion. The sphere-like grains or "blueberries" distributed throughout the outcrop can be seen lining up with individual layers. This observation indicates that the spherules are geologic features called concretions, which form in pre-existing wet sediments. This image was captured by the rover's panoramic camera on the 50th martian day, or sol, of the mission. Image Credit: NASA/JPL

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[SunkenCiv]

the earlier topic:

Earth: The Lone Pale Blue Dot?
PhysOrg | November 2, 2006 | Whitney Clavin, NASA
Posted on 11/05/2006 11:52:49 AM EST by SunkenCiv
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/1732735/posts

two topics which mention David Grinspoon:

Are We A Privileged Planet? - (are we "alone" among billions of galaxies, stars & planets?)
AMERICAN ENTERPRISE ONLINE.COM | JUNE 10, 2005 | WILLIAM TUCKER
Posted on 06/10/2005 11:04:42 PM EDT by CHARLITE
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1420727/posts

How Lonely is Our Planet?
Tech Central Station | 11/12/2003 | Kenneth Silber
Posted on 11/12/2003 1:27:11 PM EST by farmfriend
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1020220/posts

Grinspoon's website:

http://www.funkyscience.net/lonelyplanets/index.html

[SunkenCiv]

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[SunkenCiv]

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Lonely Planets: The Natural Philosophy of Alien Life by David Grinspoon

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