Fastest Computers
List Is Released

BlueGene/L

BlueGene/L, created jointly by the Department of Energy and IBM, sits at the top of the most recent TOP500 Supercomputer Sites list. BlueGene was followed closely by NASA Ames Research Center's Columbia, NEC's Earth Simulator, MareNostrum at the Barcelona Supercomputer Center, and Lawrence Livermore Lab's Thunder. The TOP500 list, released twice a year, was started in 1993 to provide a reliable basis for tracking and detecting trends in high-performance computing. Among those compiling the list are Erich Strohmaier and Horst Simon, both with Berkeley Lab's National Energy Research Scientific Computer Center, which was 21st on the list. Go here to see the complete list.

Cosmic Doomsday
Delayed...Probably

The Universe will last for at least 24 billion years, according to astrophysicists who have modeled dark energy forces to work out the fate of the cosmos. However, physicists are still divided — some say it will keep expanding forever, whereas others believe that it will begin to contract and ultimately collapse in a big crunch. The Supernova/Acceleration Probe (SNAP) could provide much needed data, say researchers. The craft was proposed by scientists at Berkeley Lab who want to study the light from hundreds of supernovae to track the rate of cosmic bloat, but the project is currently on hold. Full story.

Artisans Sought
For Craft Fair

Lab employees who like to create arts and crafts are invited to sell their wares at the Lab's ninth annual craft fair, to be held Thursday, Dec. 9, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the cafeteria. The items must be hand made and artisans are asked to donate one item for a prize drawing at the fair. Interested staff should contact Robin Mitchell (x4141).

Learn to Adjust
Your Ergo Chair

The Lab's Environment, Health and Safety Division is hosting a workshop on Friday — from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the B50 Auditorium — to review ergonomic adjustment features for various chairs used here at the Lab. Representatives from All Seating, HAG, Herman Miller, Humanscale, Neutral Posture, and Steelcase will each provide 15-minute presentations. There will be a hands-on practice session during the last 30 minutes of the program. For questions, contact Jeffrey Chung (x5818) or Edith Perry (x7170).