Christmas Batteries

So many Christmas presents and toys use batteries, that many of us include them with the gift. Running out of the right batteries is a classic Christmas Day emergency. But new advances in thin-film lithium battery technology may soon make traditional alkaline batteries a thing of the past..

Rechargeable batteries can seem like a solution, except that they?re made from highly toxic heavy metals can pollute the environment. Others have a short storage life (a rapid “self-discharge” rate). If used improperly, some lose the ability to hold a full charge, a problem known as the “memory effect.”

Researchers Nancy Dudney says thin-film lithium batteries last longer; hold their charge better during storage; recharge faster with no memory effects; can be recharged many times and can be made much smaller, lighter and more flexible than traditional batteries. They are currently being used for medical implants, remote sensors, miniature transmitters and smart cards. Companies are interested in using the technology for computer memory chips and solar-powered devices in space, miniature hearing aids and even ultra thin watches. They are already being used in as tracking devices on packages.

Art credit: http://www.freeimages.co.uk

Crop circles have been around for many years?but they’re not obsolete! Those of us who love these magical designs look forward to the new crop circle calendar every year. And while supplies last (which won’t be long), you get a free 2005 calendar with every 2006 crop circle calendar you order. Get crop circle postcards too?they’re a great way to send notes to friends.

In this week’s rerun of one of our most popular shows, we take this opportunity to reprise a discussion Budd Hopkins and Whitley had about the abduction phenomenon.

This year, subscribers get to listen to William Henry and Anne Strieber talk about the REAL meaning of Christmas. And subscribers?Whitley has a special gift for you! Don’t miss it: subscribe today.

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