SpaceX's upcoming launch of reused rocket marks historic first for NASA

SpaceX will launch a recycled Falcon 9 rocket into space for an upcoming NASA resupply mission to the International Space Station. While the private space travel company founded by Elon Musk has already launched previously used rockets into space and back, this marks the first instance in which the company will reuse a rocket for NASA. “NASA participated in a broad range of SpaceX data assessments and inspections regarding use of a previously flown Falcon 9 first stage booster,” said NASA in a statement made to The Verge, confirming the groundbreaking launch. This institutional support from the agency marks a major accomplishment for SpaceX, which has emphasized the promise of its reusable rockets.

A typical SpaceX mission involving a Falcon 9 rocket includes an initial launch into space, where it completes a particular objective such as cargo delivery or placing satellites into orbit, followed by a return into Earth’s atmosphere and a landing onto one of SpaceX’s launching pads. It is possible that these Falcon 9 rockets could be used for three or more launches, though further testing is required.

Related: SpaceX is sending two private citizens to the moon next year

At the moment, only a few of SpaceX’s customers, such as Luxembourg-based communications company SES and satellite operator Bulgaria Sat, have opted for resuable rockets. However, the numbers are poised to grow, particularly after SpaceX’s upcoming launch with NASA. Israeli satellite operator Spacecom has decided to launch a new satellite with SpaceX’s reused rockets, despite past challenges involving the destruction of a Spacecom satellite when the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket it was to be launched on exploded. While NASA has voiced optimism about expanding its use of resuable rockets, it has also made clear that it will tread carefully in using this new technology. Meanwhile, the US military has offered some positive words for reused rockets, with General John W. “Jay” Raymond, head of US Air Force Space Command, claiming to Bloomberg that it would be “absolutely foolish” to not explore the option as a cost-saving measure.

Via The Verge

Images via SpaceX/Flickr (1)

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HOW TO: Recycle a sweater into a cuddly pillow for your couch

Its that time of year when winter looms long, and we’re all spending a bit too much time indoors. Are the throw pillows on your couch getting a bit faded? Want to update your décor? Enter sweater pillows! Just follow our tutorial to learn how you can battle cabin fever by creating cozy new cold-weather-friendly pillow covers from recycled sweaters. Read on and we’ll show you how to sew two different types of pillow covers: one with an envelope style closure, and a chic version with a button hem.

Making pillows out of old sweaters is easy to do, and has the double bonus of upcycling materials, and making your house even cozier.

What You’ll Need:

• Two old sweaters, large enough to fit your desired pillows (if you don’t have any old sweaters in your closet, try a thrift shop. Wash and dry the sweaters before you start.)
• Two or more throw pillows with their slipcovers removed
• Sewing machine
• Thread, scissors, pins, needles, colored pencil or chalk, ruler or measuring tape
• Four buttons

Button Pillow Step 1: Measure and Mark

For the buttoned pillowcase, start by smoothing out and pinning together the two sides of the bottom hem – this will form the opening of the pillowcase. Pinning will keep the sweater hem from stretching out and getting misshapen when you sew it.

With a colored pencil or chalk, use a ruler or measuring tape to mark out a square that is approximately ½ inch larger than your pillow measurements on all sides. For the button pillow, we only needed to cut two sides of the sweater to create the right size square: the bottom hem forms the opening, and the right seam we left intact.

Button Pillow Step 2: Sew And Cut Sides

Using a wide straight stitch, slowly sew the seam you just marked on the two sides of the square, being cautious not to stretch the sweater too much, which can pucker the seam. Trim off the excess sweater material, close to the seam you just created.

Once you’ve cut out the complete square, finish the newly cut seam edges with a zig-zag or overlock stitch, to keep the sweater seam from unraveling.

Read More: Re Rag Rug Creates Gorgeous Rugs From Recycled Thrift Store Sweaters

Button Pillow Step 3: Add Buttons

Turn the pillow right-side out and remove the pins along the hem. Measure out and mark a spot for 4 equally spaced buttons along the inside edge hem of the sweater. Use a needle and thread to hand sew the buttons on. Next, mark out four corresponding spots on the upper hem with a pin. Using scissors, snip a tiny hole and unravel it just large enough for each button. Use a needle and thread to hand sew the edge of the buttonhole so the yarn doesn’t continue to unravel. 

Button Pillow Step 4:  Finish Pillow

Place the pillow inside the new pillowcase and button it shut – you’re done!

Envelope Pillow Step 1: Measure and Mark

Unlike the button pillow, you’ll be cutting three pieces for this version. Start by using a colored pencil or chalk and a ruler to mark out a square that is approximately ½ inch larger than your pillow measurements on just the front half of the sweater (or the part you intend to use for the front of the pillow). Cut this piece out, but be careful not to cut through both layers like you did for the button pillow

Next, measure out two overlapping pieces – we used the sweater’s border here – to form the envelope back. The two pieces must overlap at least 3-5 inches, and when overlapped, should form the same measurements as above (a square approximately ½ inch wider than the pillow measurements).

Read More: DIY Pocket Handwarmers for Chilly Days

Envelope Pillow Step 2: Create Pillow Back

Pin together the envelope back with the two pieces overlapped 3-5 inches. Ensure that you have them aligned evenly, then pin securely together. Stitch the side seams together just where the two pieces overlap.

Envelope Pillow Step 3: Sew Pillow Together

Place the two pieces together, right sides together, and pin securely. Slowly sew all four edges of the pillow together using a wide straight stitch, moving slowly so as not to pucker the fabric too much. Finish the edges of all four seams with a zig zag stitch to prevent the sweater from unraveling.

Envelope Pillow Step 4:  Finish Pillow

Turn the pillow right side out through the envelope opening. Insert the pillow and smooth it shut.

Toss your cozy new cushions on your bed, a chair, or the couch and enjoy!

Lead image via Shutterstock; all other photos by the author. 

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Blackened timber cottage with solar replaces a decayed brick home

An old and decayed brick house north of Amsterdam has transformed into a modern solar-powered dwelling that stands out from its neighbors, while respecting the local vernacular. Dutch firm Chris Collaris Architects completed the renovated home, cladding the facade and asymmetric gabled roof entirely with blackened pinewood to achieve a minimalist look. Passive solar principles guided the redesign, called House MM, which features black solar panels, high-density insulation, recycled materials, double-sealed windows, and an emphasis on natural lighting.

House MM offers a rather limited floor area of 60 square meters, but the redesign of the interior gives it a much more spacious feeling than its brick predecessor. Tall ceilings, white walls, and an abundance of natural light create the illusion of space. Materials salvaged from the old house punctuate the interior, like the repurposed roof tiles and timber flooring seen in the garden and the brick walls found throughout the new home.

Related: Rusting 1950s cargo ship transformed into a stunning modern floating home

Despite its two-story appearance, the home includes three floors thanks to the addition of a mezzanine. “The roof lines were bound to restricted heights. By cantilevering the lower parts outside the main building volume, the upper level of the house increases,” wrote the architects. “A house with a high ceiling on every floor level and an extra attic is the result of this design feature. The extra win is a dry walk along the North facade while walking underneath the cantilevering roof part towards the entrance.”

+ Chris Collaris Architects

Via ArchDaily

Images by Tim van de Velde

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Dande-lier: Everyday objects transformed into stunning art in Singapore

Umbrellas and PVC pipes might not mean much to you, but in the right hands they can be turned into a stunning work of art. That’s what happened in Singapore earlier this year with the unveiling of Dande-lier, a temporary art installation and public space crafted from everyday objects. Design collective Colours: Collectively Ours used dozens of transparent umbrellas and PVC pipes to create an unusual dome-shaped pavilion that lit up at night like a glowing lantern.

Created for Asia’s leading sustainable light art festival i Light Marina Bay in Singapore, Dande-lier was constructed to wow visitors at night, yet appeal to passersby during the day. Built for easy assembly, the pavilion was constructed from seven layers of triangular PVC pipe modules held together with metal pipe clamps. The resulting dome-shaped structure supported a canopy of tied translucent umbrellas.

“Dande-lier conveys a feeling of weightlessness by using lightweight umbrellas, transforming an everyday object into a device to change the visitors’ perspective of their surroundings,” wrote the designers. “The umbrella spans across scales, individually as a chandelier, and collectively as a dandelion – hence, “Dande-lier”. Within, the view of the outside world is warped, transporting visitors into an alternate world, with a smart lighting system that responds dynamically to the visitors’ position in the sculpture.”

Related: Mesmerizing Cube Pavillion Made from Mundane PVC Pipes

While the installation provided shelter and respite from the sun during the day, at night it was transformed into a dynamic art installation illuminated by a smart lighting system. Motion sensors triggered changes in the colored lights and projected animations.

+ Colours: Collectively Ours

Via ArchDaily

Images © Oddinary Studios

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This Swedish power plant is burning H&M clothes instead of fossil fuels

A Swedish power plant northwest of Stockholm hopes to go fossil fuel free by 2020 – and they’re turning to recycled wood and trash for alternatives, including discarded apparel from retail chain H&M. This year they’ve already burned around 15 tons of H&M clothes.

A power plant owned and operated by Malarenergi AB in the town of Vasteras, Sweden is working to transition away from oil and coal, and are turning to a fuel source you might not expect: discarded garments. Head of fuel supplies Jens Neren told Bloomberg, “For us it’s a burnable material. Our goal is to use only renewable and recycled fuels.”

Related: Garbage from Hurricane Irma will now help power Florida

Sweden boasts a nearly emission-free power system, according to Bloomberg, due to wind, nuclear, and hydro plants. But some local municipalities do use oil and coal for heating on winter days. The country hopes to move away from fossil fuel units by converting old plants to burn trash and biofuels instead.

Where do the H&M clothes come in? Malarenergi has a deal with nearby town Eskilstuna to burn their garbage, and some of that comes from a central warehouse of H&M’s. The clothing company’s head of communications Johanna Dahl told Bloomberg, “H&M does not burn any clothes that are safe to use. However it is our legal obligation to make sure that clothes that contain mold or do not comply with our strict restriction on chemicals are destroyed.”

The Vasteras plant, which supplies power for around 150,000 households, has burned around 400,000 tons of garbage this year. Bloomberg reported earlier this week, the last coal ship docked in the area to drop off supplies to last until 2020 for the plant’s last two fossil fuel generators, which date back to the 1960s. In 2020, the plant will add a wood-fired boiler to help trash- and biofuel-burning units meet demand.

Via Bloomberg

Images via Depositphotos and Per Nyström, Scheiwiller Svensson Arkitektkontor AB/Malarenergi AB

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Recycled bedsprings transformed into an art pavilion at Dubai Design Week

Old copper bedsprings have been transformed into a surprisingly chic exhibition space at this year’s Dubai Design Week. Fahed + Architects designed Pavilion Abwab (“doors” in Arabic) to house a curated selection of 47 designs by design talent from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA). The cloud of mesh metal made of locally sourced materials takes inspiration from nature and showcases the firm’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

The temporary Abwab pavilion consolidates all the designs into a single space, unlike Dubai Design Week’s former practice of commissioning independent pavilions for six MENASA countries. Designers from 15 different MENASA countries were represented this year at the exhibition that was split into eight categories: interpretation, mimicry, intersection, geometry, tactility, artisanal, nostalgia, and re-use.

Related: Beautiful timber pavilion unfolds like origami

Fahed + Architects sourced the used bedsprings from local waste management company bee’ah. A series of interconnected posts supported the cloud of mesh. “Set against a large mass of buildings within the d3 corridors, the structure’s silhouette will be reminiscent of impetuous ocean waves, coral clusters in a reef and clouds in the sky, referencing the practice’s environmental commitment,” reads a statement on Dubai Design Week. “The pavilion will distill daylight to create patterns on the exhibited works and on the ground.”

+ Fahed + Architects

Via Dezeen

Images by Photo Solutions

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6 Vegan and vegetarian turkey alternatives for Thanksgiving

There is no reason for vegetarians and vegans to miss out on the goodness of Thanksgiving – thankfully the days of picking at side dishes are gone, and there are plenty of vegetarian main dish substitutes to entice even real turkey eaters! From the standard Tofurky to succulent Field Roast to recipes to make your own Seiturkey, read on for our favorite turkey alternatives that will ensure no one will go unsatisfied this Thanksgiving!

GARDEIN STUFFED VEGGIE TURKEY ROAST

TOFURKY VEGETARIAN FEAST

QUORN TURK’Y

MAGIC VEGAN LOAF MAKER

FIELD ROAST CELEBRATION ROAST

DIY SEITAN TURKEY

GARDEIN STUFFED VEGGIE TURKEY ROAST

Gardein’s tender stuffed roast leans more toward gourmet than its faux meat counterparts, and the difference is discernable to your palate. I’ve tasted every single pre-made faux-turkey on this list, and my personal favorite is the stuffed Gardein veggie roast. It is TO DIE FOR. Better than real turkey. The “meat”, made from soy, wheat, peas, beets and carrots, has a flavor and texture that will satisfy even hardcore carnivores. The  flavors, along with the included gravy, can pass for an extremely succulent and fancy stuffed bird, or just an amazing vegetarian dish.

TOFURKY VEGETARIAN FEAST

An industry pioneer, the Tofurky has been a staple for vegetarians everywhere. Their Thanksgiving Roast comes with a bevy of trimmings including Wild Rice Stuffing, Giblet and Mushroom Gravy, and Tofurky Jurky Wishstix—their vegetarian version of wish bones. Wrapped in savory wheat gluten and tofu, the roast is juicy, and great for sandwich leftovers.

FIELD ROAST CELEBRATION ROAST

Field Roast Grain Meat Company makes a full line of faux meat products, and their Celebration Loaf, which looks more like a Beef Wellington than a turkey, is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas. The  wheat-protein loaf is stuffed with a hearty, sweet butternut squash, apple and mushroom stuffing, and marinated with a smoky, garlicky finish – and the best part – layered in a crispy, flaky puff pastry. DELISH!

DIY SEITAN TURKEY

If you’re tired of store-bought alternatives and want to try something new this year, or just prefer to whip something up from scratch, try our flavor-packed recipe for vegan seitan turkey that you can easily make right at home. Check out our step-by-step video right here.

MAGIC VEGAN LOAF MAKER

If you love the tradition of cooking your own meal from scratch, the Magic Vegan Loaf Maker is for you.  The loaf recipes are seemingly endless: simply choose a protein, a nut or seed, a carbohydrate, vegetables, liquid, herbs, oil and a binder from a provided list. After choosing your desired combination, press “submit” and your personal recipe is created for you! The combinations are endless, allowing you to adjust according to what you have in your cupboards, and it is perfect for any time of year.

QUORN TURK’Y

Quorn’s products have been acclaimed far and wide by vegetarians to be the most “meaty tasting.” Made from mycoprotein fungus, the vegetarian Quorn Turk’y Roast may not come with any fixings, but it can be dressed with a side of homemade stuffing and some mushroom gravy for a complete meal.

VEGAN WHOLE TURKEY

Going meat-free on Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean giving up the bird— Vegetarian Plus‘s Vegan Whole Turkey looks just like the real thing! The delectable-looking faux bird is made from soy and wheat protein and it feeds 8 to 10 people—plus it can be filled with stuffing for the complete effect.”

With one of these savory delights, you and  your guests are sure to enjoy a tasty meat-free Thanksgiving!

Images © Gardein, The Last Cookie and @Allison Feelus

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