Neil Bartlett

Chemical & Engineering News, published by the American Chemical Society, recently polled chemists and historians from around the world to name the Top Ten Most Beautiful Experiments Performed in Chemistry. Joining this exclusive list of scientific lumineries that includes Louis Pasteur, Joseph Priestly, and Marie and Pierre Curie, is Berkeley Lab’s own Neil Bartlett, a now retired senior scientist in the Chemical Sciences Division, for his preparation of the first noble gas compound. Full story.

Risk of Earth/Asteroid
Collision Measured

Scientists in London say a large asteroid is on a possible collision course with Earth. In theory, it could hit in about 11 years, British space monitors say. Odds are one-in-909,000 that a 2.6-billion ton rock will hit Earth. The British agency was set up to warn people of potentially hazardous space objects. It says the potential strike data for Asteroid "2003 QQ47" is March 2014. American scientists first spotted the giant rock on Aug. 24. Full story.

For the past month, the Facilities Lighting Crew has been working to replace 68 defective Berkeley lamps. Crew supervisor Larry Begley reports that the lamp’s manufacturer has encountered delays in receiving ballasts. They now say the ballasts are expected on Sept. 8, and that shipment of the new lamps will begin toward the end of that same week. In the meantime, Begley hopes everybody can "bear with us" and invites anyone with questions to call him at x6993.

If you’re looking for an aerobic and strength- enhancing exercise system in a convenient location, then consider joining the Berkeley Lab Martial Arts Club. Their informal classes — which meet every Monday and Wednesday, from 5 to 6:15 p.m., in Building 71 — are structured to provide a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. Instruction focuses on balance, coordination, and flexibility as well as Martial Arts’ self-defense component. The cost is free, and all levels of experience are welcomed. For additional information, contact Eric Esarey at x5925 or [email protected].