What's New

JUSTICE Life, liberty, and the pursuit of ... bananas AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - A group of New Zealand scientists is pushing a bill of rights for apes that would make primates the first animals to have rights similar to humans. Supporters of the proposal want to protect great apes from cruel and degrading treatment. Since apes have distinct personalities, show deep emotions, and communicate with one another in a sophisticated way, they deserve higher protection, the scientists say.

TECHNOLOGY Y2K bug awareness rises ARLINGTON, VA. - More Americans know about the Year 2000 issue than three months ago, and as awareness increased, concern fell, says a new Gallup poll. Nearly one-quarter polled say Y2K computer problems will last only a few days around Jan. 1, up from only 15 percent who held this view in December. But 54 percent (up from 47 percent in December) say they'll avoid plane travel around Jan. 1. Concern also remains high over financial account accuracy.

SCIENCE Collision may have split Earth WASHINGTON - Data from NASA's Lunar Prospector spacecraft has confirmed that the moon has a small core, supporting the theory that the bulk of the moon was ripped away from the early Earth when an object the size of Mars collided with our planet.

Scientists presented these findings Monday at the 30th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference in Houston. Similarities in the mineral composition of Earth and the moon also confirm that they share a common origin.

Tracking paper orbits

WASHINGTON - NASA and the Space Business Archives agreed to compile and save documents that will chronicle those who took non-government industry into outer space. Information will be available to business leaders, historians, and the public at www.spacearchive.org