› added 3 years ago

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TIL the RMS Carpathia received the Titanic's distress call by accident. Harold Cottam, the telegraphist had finished for the day and was using the transmitter to "take some general news". He picked up messages for the Titanic and to help made contact. The reply: "We have struck ice, come at once."

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Y7GaA TIL that the beehive hairstyle was also called the B-52 for its resemblance to the Boeing B-52 bomber’s nose. And the band the B-52’s chose that name because two of its members wore that hairstyle (Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson).
v1rjR TIL that despite no longer possessing any territory, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (founded in 1099) is considered to be a sovereign entity under international law. They maintain relations with over 100 countries, had their own air force until the 1950s, and are recognized by the UN.
opPW TIL that DARPA has created a drug that eliminates sleepiness. When tested on monkeys with sleep deprivation, the drug made them cognitively alert as well-rested monkeys. With no apparent side affects.
woxe1 TIL that Microwaves generate heat, (not as popularly conceived (having a resonant frequency similar to water)), but instead, by matter doing it's best to magnetize itself.
1aLRW TIL Microwave power settings don't actually adjust the power levels. The magnetron simply turns on and off in cycles to allow heat to be radiated throughout the food.