The tiny nation leading a new space race (BBC Future)

As a new space race gathers pace, many tech executives have sold Mars as humankind’s off-Earth destiny. But they may be looking too far afield. Our most immediate chance for life-beyond-Earth lies much closer, a path likely to be blazed by far lesser-known companies. Building colonies on the Moon will “provide a blueprint to Mars”, …

Continue reading The tiny nation leading a new space race (BBC Future)

Jordan Trail: A trek through history via ancient villages and wild wadis (CNN Travel)

Amman, Jordan -- Picture the Appalachian Trail in the United States, or the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Then draw a route through more than 10,000 years of history, covering Neolithic ruins, Biblical sites, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and russet landscapes that wouldn't look out of place on Mars. That's the Jordan Trail, and only a slice of it.