This satelite was first developed to help predict floods. The probe, which also monitors photosynthesis and plant growth, can measure moisture to a depth of up to 7ft.

It is also critical for calculating Earth's carbon cycle, the process by which heat-trapping carbon dioxide is released and absorbed, especially by plants and the oceans.

Climate change, scientists agree, is largely caused by CO2 pollution that has upset that natural balance.

Its second job is to measure changes in the salt content of sea surface waters, data that will enhance our understanding of what drives global ocean circulation patterns.

Ocean circulation helps moderates climate, notably by transporting heat from the equator to the poles.

'Climate change is a fact, but its impact on precipitation, evaporation, surface runoff and flood risks is still uncertain,' said Yann Kerr, a researcher at the Centre for the Study of the Biosphere from Space and scientific director for the Smos mission.

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At $150 each, this bag is not in my future for a while. However, this is a start. With the exception of the logo, this is a semi stylish bag.

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As most of you know, there are many types of solar energy systems to take sunlight and make electricity. What a lot of people do not know is that some of the systems need water to operate. The connection may seem fuzzy, but it will be clear as day in a minute.

In the case of solar concentrators, a fluid like oil or molten salt is used to transport the collected heat to a boiler and turbine system. The steam from the boiler will spin the turbines that create the electricity. This is a very effective system with a lot of good qualities. However, there is a need for heat control.

We can not have any portion of the system overheat, so water is often used to cool and prevent this. If the water is not re-collected it becomes run off or steam. Either way, it is no longer available as potable water. In an arid region like the Mojave desert where a solar installation seems most efficient, there would be a great deal of shipped in water to make the system work.

There are also what are called dry cooling systems. These are not as efficient as a "wet" system and cost more. This loss of efficiency and higher cost create an argument for using the "wet" cooling systems. Since water is also a scarce resource in the areas these solar systems are installed, we have arguments for both sides.

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Clearly built from local materials this house in Portugal immediately reminded me of the Flintstones house. This home is real, two stories and even the wood for interior stairs was collected locally.

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Not to scare everyone, but you should know what you put on your childs skin. There are some face paints that have questionable ingredients.

The testing, by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of health and environmental groups, found that many face paints -- including those used in Halloween costume makeup -- often contain lead, nickel, cobalt and chromium. None of those ingredients, however, were listed on product packaging.

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A few simple steps that will help include:

-- Follow directions - if it is not for use around the eyes, don't.

-- Do not sleep with the makeup on.

-- Read ingredients.

-- Test on a small area of your arm for irritation.

-- Never use neon colors close to the eyes.

-- Wash the makeup off thouroughly.