The main reason Laura and I went to Tucson was to tour Biosphere 2. We weren't disappointed.
The most iconic part of Biosphere 2 is the huge greenhouse housing the rainforest. After 20 years, the trees have nearly reached the top. (What is Biosphere 1, one might ask? The Earth itself.)
The dome on the right houses a "lung" -- a rubber membrane that expands and contracts to maintain a constant air pressure as the greenhouses heat up and cool off as the day progresses. In the middle are the crew quarters.
An experimental solar panel array, testing different ground covers used when placing the panels directly on the ground. I have mixed feelings about sacrificing a hillside like this.
I'll be posting more Biosphere pics when I have time.
One observation: Biosphere 2 emerged from its 1991-93 mission with a bad reputation. The most common themes are "a failed experiment," and "bad science." But we need to remember that this negativity was created by the corporate media, which as we all know is as corrupt as any other national institution. Members of the corporate media, especially at the national level, tend to be shallow, snide, and self-important. We don't need to take their opinions seriously.
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