"Mars Attacks! Destroying NASA's Climate Orbiter"
(I hope you have a sense of humor)

Once again "The Angry Red Planet" Mars reached out and flexed its cosmic muscles, destroying the $125 million Mars Orbiter spacecraft as it attempted to achieve an orbit around the planet. At least this is what the Martian Central Control wants us to believe. According to NASA scientists, the orbiter fell victim to a flight path that was too low in altitude, and was burned up on that approach. If it wasn't for the incident with the $1 billion Mars Observer Probe in 1993, I might agree with NASA. Whatever the reason, another expensive piece of machinery was lost to space in the name of exploration. Other groups, who remain nameless, say that the orbiter fell prey to the Microsoft Evil Empire's Death Star that lies hidden on the far side of Mars. (I don't know about that!) No matter the answer, we as humans should continue our exploration of space, no matter the setbacks. A toast to discovering the unknown. Peace.

"This Is Who's Museum?"

For those lucky few who find themselves in Wales in the near future, you might want to check out the Dr. Who Museum, located at the Lower Dee Exhibition Centre, Mill Street, Llangollen LL20 8RX. This exhibit is dedicated to the British classic science fiction show Dr. Who, and contains many of the costumes and props used by the BBC. On the wall, screens flash the different faces of the Doctor, each fading away into the next… A really fun place to visit.

The Centre also houses the International Model Railway World, and the Museum of the Inland Waterways, truly making this little sojourn an all-day trip. Heck, make it two! There is just so much to do in this beautiful town. The miniature train set-ups know no rival, showing such detail to design and authenticity. For you boat enthusiasts, the Waterways exhibit will keep you entranced for a lifetime. After your visit to the Centre, head down to the wharf and enjoy a lovely horse-drawn boat trip along the canal, or take a romantic cruise along the peaceful aqueduct system. For more information, write to the address above or call the Exhibition Centre at (01978) 860584.

I hope you all can enjoy this marvelous place.

"Cassini: The True Voyager"

In this age of space exploration, it is good to see that humanity has not given up on discovering what's out there among the cosmos. This was proven by the launch of the Cassini orbiter back in October of 1997. Its mission is to explore Saturn, its spectacular rings and rather large moon Titan. Just recently in August, Cassini, after already traveling over a billion miles, passed by its home planet for the final time. Its next meeting to take place with Jupiter sometime in the year 2000, where it will pick up more speed from the planet's gravity, thus hurling the 6-ton spacecraft towards its final goal: The planet Saturn in the year 2004. At last report, the orbiter was in excellent shape, with all systems operating well. Good luck, Cassini, my best wishes travel with you. (If I can't go, I guess that will have to do.)

"Cricket Anyone?"

Come on out, all you cricket fans, and watch or participate in Gallifrey's 2nd Annual Dr. Who Cricket match on Monday, Feb 21st, 2000. Yes, believe it or not, there are actually 4 days to this great convention. During the day on Monday, we will all be getting together at a local park near the hotel for a most excellent game of cricket. Hosted again by Dr. Who writer Paul Cornell and his American mates Paul L. Steib and Wendy Wiseman, this event is definitely not one to miss. So call in sick if you have to, you'll want in on this match.

Last year's game went down to the final few throws, with everyone involved having a real great time. Highlights from last year include: The master bowling skills of John DeChancie, the super batting skills of Tom Beck and Keith Topping, the excellent team play of Paul Cornell and Cathy Beckstead and the great team spirit shown by all. Again, please attend this event if you can, because I can tell you from personal experience that I had one of the best times of my life last year at the cricket match. So remember folks, that the convention is really 4 days this year and we hope to see you all there. For more information, visit the Gallifrey website or email the coordinators.

Copyright ©1999-2002 P-Bear Designs, a division of Range R1 Press -- All rights reserved.
Last update: Thursday, April 4, 2002