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TIL Mr. Wizard's science television program—running from 1951 to 1965—was so influential in inspiring people to pursue science careers, ~50% of all applicants to Rockefeller University throughout the 1960s-1970s in New York cited him when they were asked how they first became interested in science.

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W7dy4 TIL that in 1962, Operation Stargazer used a 12-1/2-inch reflecting telescope mounted on a high-altitude balloon, featuring gyroscopic stabilizing gear developed by MIT. This was the first mission to employ such technology for more accurate observations from the upper atmosphere.
Db6V TIL that in Germany, when a kid becomes an adult at age 18, it can get rid of all its debt by offering its debtors everthing its owns at that point. The young adult is relieved from all other debts they can’t pay back so that no young adult has to face a life in debt for things they did as teenager.
GAlwG TIL that people with dementia perceive a black doormat as a hole, not a doormat. They avoid stepping on it due to visual issues, and this is used to prevent them from leaving care facilities.
jNDjX TIL that Nicolas Ferrial, the jester of King Francis I, once slapped the monarch on his bum. Nicolas was to be executed for this deed but the king promised to forgive him if he comes up with an apology even more insulting than the slap. And the jester delivered: 'I mistook you for the Queen!'
GAvP1 TIL the 1916 and 1968 presidential elections are the only times where the winner lost both their home state and their running mate's state.