wtf

WTF Fun Fact 13369 – Bombing the Moon

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During the height of the Cold War in the 1950s, when tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union were at their peak, a truly audacious plan was proposed: bombing on the moon. This controversial proposal was known as “Project A119.” It was a testament to the extreme lengths humanity was willing to go to demonstrate power and assert dominance during this era.

The origins of Project A119

Project A119 was a top-secret plan devised by a group of American scientists. They were led by physicist Leonard Reiffel, who worked under the direction of the United States Air Force. The primary motivation behind the project was to showcase American technological prowess and military superiority to the world, particularly the Soviet Union.

The plan involved launching a nuclear bomb toward the moon, targeting its unexplored far side. The idea was to create a massive explosion visible from Earth, serving as a display of military might. The bomb would have been equivalent in power to the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II.

Why bombing the moon didn’t work out

Despite the audacity of the plan, scientists involved in Project A119 recognized the potential scientific value of the lunar explosion. They believed that the blast could reveal valuable information about the composition of the moon’s surface and the nature of lunar craters.

Although Project A119 was seriously considered, it never came to fruition. Concerns over the potential risks associated with the mission played a significant role in the project’s abandonment. No one knew what the consequences of bombing the moon might be.

The proposal to detonate a nuclear bomb on the moon speaks to the extreme mindset prevailing during the Cold War. It reflects the fervent desire of both the United States and the Soviet Union to showcase their technological advancements.

The plan’s abandonment highlights the importance of responsible decision-making. It’s also a testament to considering the potential environmental impacts and long-term consequences that such actions could have on Earth.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “The crazy plan to explode a nuclear bomb on the Moon” — BBC

WTF Fun Fact 13368 – Horse Diving

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Horse diving was a spectacle where trained horses would dive from high platforms into pools of water. Guided by riders, the horses leaped from platforms and landed in pools located below. The performances drew crowds of spectators, especially at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City, where it became a popular attraction.

The origins of horse diving

Horse diving involved training horses to dive from 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 meters) platforms. Trained riders guided the horses, ensuring their safety during the descent and upon entering the water.

Horse diving traces its roots back to the late 19th century. That’s when William “Doc” Carver, a former Wild West performer, had a vision of combining horsemanship with daring dives. Carver was instrumental in training horses to perform the dives and developing the techniques necessary to ensure their safety. He worked tirelessly to refine the training process and establish a rapport between horses and riders.

The Steel Pier in Atlantic City, New Jersey, became synonymous with horse diving. The iconic amusement pier offered a perfect stage for the daring spectacle.

A daring feat

The performances showcased not only the bravery of the animals but also the bond between the horses and their riders.

To ensure the safety of the horses, the pools were carefully designed with deep water and sufficient space for the horses to land safely. The performers, including the riders, were highly trained and dedicated individuals who understood the intricacies of the sport. While accidents and injuries did occur, the community took measures to prioritize the well-being of the animals and performers.

As times changed and public perception evolved, concerns about animal welfare emerged. The popularity of horse diving gradually declined throughout the 20th century, and the last performance took place in the 1970s. Although no longer a prominent attraction, it left a lasting legacy, reminding us of the audacity and daring spirit that characterized a bygone era of entertainment.

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Source: “Remembering When Horse Diving Was an Actual Thing” — Atlas Obscura

WTF Fun Fact 13367 – Shortest Commerical Flight

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When we think of air travel, we tend to think of long-haul flights and transcontinental journeys. But there are also short flights. In fact, the world’s shortest commercial flight lasts a mere 57 seconds (sometimes 90).

Where does the shortest commercial flight go?

This unique route connects the Scottish islands of Westray and Papa Westray in the Orkney archipelago.

These two charming islands steeped in history and natural beauty. Situated close to each other, separated only by a narrow stretch of water, these islands provide the backdrop for the world’s shortest airline flight.

Spanning a distance of approximately 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers), the Westray to Papa Westray flight route has gained worldwide fame for its timing. Operated by Loganair, Scotland’s national airline, this short hop is an essential lifeline for the local community, connecting residents, and providing essential transportation between the two islands.

What it’s like on a 57-second airplane journey

The aircraft employed for this short flight is typically the Britten-Norman Islander, a versatile twin-engine light aircraft. Designed for short-haul regional flights, the Islander offers excellent maneuverability.

Some flights between the islands can last 90 seconds. Regardless of the flight length, passengers experience a thrillingly rapid ascent and descent. However, the brevity of the flight often means that the passengers barely have time to buckle their seatbelts before reaching their destination.

Passengers also get a unique opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Orkney Islands from an aerial perspective. While the duration of this flight may be short, its significance to the local community cannot be overstated. For the residents of Westray and Papa Westray, this regular air service provides is essential. It’s used for commuting, transporting goods, accessing medical services, and maintaining social connections.

The Westray to Papa Westray flight operates according to a tightly coordinated schedule. Flights typically depart from Westray Airport and arrive at Papa Westray Airport multiple times a day. This ensures that the community has reliable access to this vital transportation link.

To celebrate this extraordinary flight, passengers are presented with a certificate upon completion of the journey. The certificate serves as a unique memento, reminding travelers of their participation in this exceptional aviation experience.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “What it’s like to fly on the shortest commercial flight in the world, which lasts just 57 seconds” — Business Insider

WTF Fun Fact 13366 – Flying Chickens

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Contrary to popular belief, chickens can fly. Flying chickens aren’t a common sight, but they do possess the necessary physical adaptations for brief bursts of flight.

What’s the deal with flying chickens?

Chickens are not known for sustained or long-distance flight. However, their wings, consisting of flight feathers, primary feathers, and secondary feathers, are able to provide lift and control during short flights. Strong pectoral muscles aid in wing flapping, facilitating takeoff and maintaining altitude.

Chickens achieve flight by utilizing their wings and pectoral muscles. Flapping their wings generates the necessary lift to become airborne. However, their relatively large body size and heavy frame make any sustained flight nearly impossible.

When chickens fly

Chickens can only achieve short flights, covering distances of a few meters at a time. These flights are often initiated as a response to perceived threats, to navigate obstacles, or to reach higher roosting positions. Flight abilities are more pronounced in certain chicken breeds and younger chickens due to their agility and muscle strength.

The longest recorded flight of a chicken lasted for approximately 13 seconds. While brief compared to other bird species, it is a remarkable feat considering chickens’ general reputation as ground-dwelling birds.

Flight serves various purposes for chickens beyond locomotion. It aids in escaping predators, reaching elevated perches or roosts for safety, exploring new environments, and accessing food sources that may be out of reach on the ground.

Domesticated chickens often have reduced flight capabilities due to selective breeding for specific traits. Firstly, domesticated chicken breeds have been selectively bred over generations for specific traits, such as meat production or egg-laying abilities. This breeding process has resulted in larger body sizes and heavier frames, making sustained flight challenging. Additionally, the typical living environments for domesticated chickens, such as coops or enclosures, often lack the open spaces and elevated perches that would naturally encourage flight. Consequently, chickens tend to rely more on their remarkable ground-dwelling and foraging abilities, which are better suited to their domesticated lifestyles.

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Source: “Can Chickens Fly? (How & Why)” — Farm Animal Report

WTF Fun Fact 13365 – The Copyright to “Happy Birthday to You”

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For decades, the familiar tune of “Happy Birthday to You” was under strict copyright protection. That meant that any commercial use of the song required permission and a fee. This was the case until 2015.

The origins of “Happy Birthday to You”

The melody for “Happy Birthday to You” was composed in the late 19th century by sisters Mildred J. Hill and Patty Smith Hill. Originally known as “Good Morning to All,” the song aimed to greet children in a classroom setting.

In 1935 the Clayton F. Summy Company registered the melody and lyrics of “Happy Birthday to You” for copyright. This copyright protection granted them exclusive rights to the song. Technically, this restricted its public use without obtaining a license or paying royalties. As a result, countless public performances and recordings of the song required legal authorization.

Over the years, “Happy Birthday to You” became an iconic cultural staple, sung in homes, schools, restaurants, and even movies. Despite its widespread use, the song’s copyright remained firmly in place.

Ending the Happy Birthday copyright

The extent of the copyright’s reach became a topic of curiosity and controversy. In 2013, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Nelson sought to produce a film about the song’s history but was required to pay substantial licensing fees to include the song. Intrigued by the song’s copyright status, Nelson embarked on a legal battle to challenge its validity and uncover the truth behind this enduring musical monopoly.

In 2015, after years of legal proceedings, a federal judge ruled that the copyright claim to “Happy Birthday to You” was invalid. The court determined that the melody and lyrics of the song had long been part of the public domain. This released the song from its decades-long copyright imprisonment.

According to the Hollywood Reporter (cited below) Warner/Chappell Music, the company that held the copyright to “Happy Birthday to You,” agreed to pay a $14 million settlement in 2016. This settlement came after a class-action lawsuit challenged the validity of the copyright and sought reimbursement for years of licensing fees paid.

Entering the public domain

The resolution of the lawsuit marked a turning point, not only in the financial aspect but also in the recognition that the song rightfully belonged in the public domain. It allowed people worldwide to freely sing and share the timeless birthday anthem without any further encumbrance of licensing fees.

The release of “Happy Birthday to You” from copyright restrictions marked a significant milestone. It ensured that the song could be freely performed, recorded, and shared by people around the world.

Following the court ruling, Warner/Chappell Music faced a wave of legal claims seeking reimbursement for years of licensing fees paid. In 2016, Warner/Chappell Music agreed to settle the class-action lawsuit. They paid a $14 million settlement, finally closing the chapter on the decades-long copyright controversy.

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Warner Music Pays $14 Million to End ‘Happy Birthday’ Copyright Lawsuit” — The Hollywood Reporter

WTF Fun Fact 13364 – Honey Never Spoils

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Did you know that – so long as it’s stored correctly and not contaminated – honey never spoils? As long as it’s pure honey and it’s preserved appropriately, it can resist spoiling for thousands of years (if not indefinitely). Its remarkable longevity is evidenced by pots found in ancient Egyptian tombs.

The history of honey

Honey has been cherished since ancient times, with evidence of its consumption dating back thousands of years. The Egyptians, renowned for their mastery of preservation, held honey in high regard and utilized various techniques to ensure its longevity.

Honey’s low moisture content, acidic pH, and the presence of hydrogen peroxide-producing enzymes contribute to its natural preservation properties.

The world’s oldest honey

Archaeologists venturing into the depths of ancient Egyptian tombs in 1922 made a remarkable discovery. In King Tut’s tomb, they found a treasure trove of pots filled with honey over 3,000 years old.

These pots, carefully sealed and preserved within the protective embrace of the tombs, have defied the passage of time, remaining perfectly edible to this day. This is how we know that it’s possible that honey never spoils.

Is it true that honey never spoils?

Honey’s exceptional longevity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its low moisture content inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, as most harmful pathogens require higher water content to thrive. Secondly, honey’s acidic pH, typically ranging from 3.2 to 4.5, creates an unfavorable environment for many bacteria. Lastly, bees add an enzyme called glucose oxidase to honey, which produces hydrogen peroxide—a natural antimicrobial agent.

While honey possesses incredible preservation properties, it is important to note that improper storage can impact its quality. Exposure to air, moisture, and heat can lead to crystallization, fermentation, and the growth of yeasts or molds. To maintain the freshness of honey, it is crucial to store it in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

When honey spoils

Just because honey can last “forever,” doesn’t mean it will. Honey’s shelf life can vary depending on its moisture content, acidity, and storage conditions. Raw, unprocessed honey tends to have a longer shelf life compared to processed honey, as it retains more of its natural enzymes and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, honey with higher acidity levels generally exhibits better preservation qualities.

Honey’s longevity also relies on its quality and source. Pure, unadulterated honey with minimal processing has a higher likelihood of maintaining its freshness over time. Additionally, honey sourced from reliable beekeepers and reputable producers ensures its authenticity and minimizes the risk of spoilage due to contamination or improper handling.

—WTF fun facts

Source: Discover the Oldest Honey Ever Found (From King Tut’s Tomb?) — AZ Animals

WTF Fun Fact 13363 – The Oldest Musical Instrument

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Deep within the recesses of a German cave, researchers came across a remarkable artifact in 2008—the world’s oldest musical instrument. It was a flute made from a vulture’s wing bone. This extraordinary find dated back approximately 40,000 years.

Discovering the world’s oldest musical instrument

In 2008, archaeologists exploring the Hohle Fels cave in southwestern Germany unearthed a treasure that would rewrite the history of music. During their search, they stumbled upon the remnants of a bone flute. After the researchers carefully reconstructed it, they revealed the astonishing craftsmanship of our ancient ancestors.

They’ve also traced the flute’s origin back to the Upper Paleolithic period, during a time when early humans roamed the Earth. Radiocarbon dating placed the age of the flute at approximately 40,000 years old. This makes it the oldest known musical instrument ever found. It even predates the development of agriculture and the invention of writing! That really says something about the importance of music in our lives.

The flute’s construction

The flute, made from the hollow wing bone of a griffon vulture, exhibits remarkable craftsmanship. Moreover, the flute’s smooth surface bears the unmistakable signs of intricate carving and polishing, serving as a testament to the skill and dedication of its ancient artisan. The creator carefully fashioned the bone with several holes, allowing for the modulation of sound by covering and uncovering them.

Experts have analyzed the flute’s acoustics and confirmed that it possesses the ability to produce musical tones. And they say the presence of carefully placed finger holes indicates that our ancient ancestors possessed a fundamental understanding of sound. Not only that, but they were capable of manipulating it to create melodies. This information provides some fascinating insight into the human capacity for artistic expression.

Rewriting history with music

The discovery of the world’s oldest flute not only expands our knowledge of human history but also highlights the enduring impact of music on our lives. This serves as a reminder that music has always held a special place in the human experience, bringing joy, solace, and a means of creative expression across civilizations and ages.

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Source: “35,000-year-old flute is oldest known musical instrument” — LA Times

WTF Fun Fact 13361 – Olympic Tug of War

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Tug of War, a favorite childhood sport that pits two teams against each other in a test of strength and teamwork, had a brief but notable stint as an Olympic sport. Olympic Tug of War made its debut in the 1900 Paris Games. The inclusion of the sport was a reflection of the diverse range of events showcased in the early years of the modern Olympics. Organizers believed that Tug of War, with its raw physicality and team dynamics, would add excitement to the program. And we’re kind of sad it’s not there anymore!

Competitive Tug of War

Of course, Tug of War competitions at the Olympics followed a standardized set of rules. Each team consisted of eight athletes, and the objective was to pull the opposing team a certain distance across a line within a specified period of time.

If neither team achieved this, victory was awarded to the team that managed to pull their opponents the farthest.

Tug of War quickly gained popularity among spectators due to its gripping displays of strength. After all, it may not be figure skating, but it required determination, synchronization, and the ability to work together. The sport drew large crowds – and we imagine it still would today!

A playground sport goes global, then fades

Tug of War returned in the 1908 London Olympics. This time, the competition featured teams from more nations. But the United Kingdom, Sweden, and the United States were dominant.

So where did this popular sport go? Well, for all its popularity, the sport faced several challenges that ultimately led to its removal from the Olympic program. One factor was the lack of standardized weight categories, which disadvantaged lighter teams.

The removal of Tug of War from the Olympic program can also be attributed to shifting priorities. The Games evolved into a platform that emphasized individual athletic prowess, precision, and specific skill sets, rather than collective strength and team coordination.

The end of an era

Sweden holds the distinction of winning the most Olympic Tug of War medals, with five golds, one silver, and two bronzes. Sadly, the 1912 Stockholm Olympics was the last Games to feature Tug of War, marking the end of its Olympic journey.

Interestingly, the gold medals awarded to Tug of War champions were among the heaviest in Olympic history, weighing approximately 324 grams (11.4 ounces).

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Olympics History” — Tug of War Association

WTF Fun Fact 13360 – Plant Machete Robot

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“Plant machete robot” are three words we never expected to hear together. And yet here we are.

That’s because David Bowen, a renowned kinetic artist, is pushing the boundaries of the relationship between technology and art. His latest exhibition, “Plant Machete” showcases his unique ability to fuse nature with machines. The result is a portrayal of plant life that is truly mesmerizing – and a bit dangerous.

A machete-wielding plant robot

Bowen described the piece on his website:

“Plant machete has a control system that reads and utilizes the electrical noises found in a live philodendron. The system uses an open source micro-controller connected to the plant to read varying resistance signals across the plant’s leaves. Using custom software, these signals are mapped in real-time to the movements of the joints of the industrial robot holding a machete. In this way, the movements of the machete are determined based on input from the plant. Essentially the plant is the brain of the robot controlling the machete determining how it swings, jabs, slices and interacts in space.“

Art meets tech

“Plant Machete” prompts viewers to question the boundaries between the organic and the mechanical. Bowen’s robotic machete, while purely mechanical, seems to breathe with life as it mimics the internal signals of the. It’s a testament to Bowen’s genius that he can draw such lifelike behavior from an inanimate object.

Bowen’s work sparks conversations about the interplay between nature and technology. As a result, we get a reminder of the connection between these worlds. The robotic machete brings the unseen world of plants to the surface. It also provides a unique perspective on the intricate dances of nature.

According to his website, Bowen “is a two-time recipient of a McKnight Visual Artist Fellowship and has received awards such as Grand Prize, Japan Media Arts Festival; Honorary Mention, Ars Electronica; and Third Prize, Vida Art and Artificial Life international competition. Bowen has been an artist in residence at Autodesk Pier 9, The Mattress Factory Museum of Contemporary Art, The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and The Arctic Circle.”

—WTF fun facts

Source: “Watch a Living Plant Wield a Machete With a Robot Arm” — My Modern Met