Science!
The Phoenix is dead, though hope remains that it may arise in imitation of its mythological namesake: Phoenixlink. Please read beyond the "Fiery plunge" headline for a nice recounting of the probe's contributions to our knowledge of the Red Planet. Farewell, Phoenix, and know that a place is reserved for you in the Machine Valhalla, the reward that awaits all good robots who serve faithfully and well their human masters.

Also, holy cow, alkaline soil on acidic Mars? Snow? Perchlorate? The Phoenix has been a revelation! Wayback Machinelink. Boy howdy, am I looking forward to the launch of the Mars Science Laboratory after the New Year.

Science!

The Rebel Black Dot Song of the Day
Semisonic, "Surprise" from All About Chemistry (T.L.A.M.)

Commentary: Nominations of the R.B.D.S.O.T.D. are being accepted, now and always. The Secret Base might as well be called the Mike Wilson Ego Experience, but that doesn't mean I don't want you, the readers, to feel involved and invested, too. Open my ears to something new.