Godspeed.Time for a TanForget the cautionary tale of Icarus. NASA's Parker Solar Probe is just days away from flying into the Sun or through its outer layers, depending on how you look at the maneuver in a daring bid to glean the secrets of our star's megahot winds, Ars Technica reports.Ever since it launched in 2018, the diminutive spacecraft, which weighs less than a ton, has been performing flybys of our star at record-breaking speeds.But on Christmas eve, the orbiter will make its closest approach yet, coming within 3.8 million miles of the solar surface. At that toasty proximity, the Parker will be plunging straight into the Sun's upper atmosphere and with any luck, it'll make it out in one piece to send back valuable data about what's going on down there."Quite simply, we want to find the birthplace of the solar wind," NASA chief of Science Nicky Fox told Ars.Crowning AchievementThis outermost region that the Parker will be entering is known as the corona, which swirls with charged particles of plasma amidst the Sun's powerful magnetic fields. During solar eclipses, the corona is visible as an aureole of light emanating around the blacked-out star.Despite its huge size and quite literally being the center of our existence, many facets of the Sun remain shrouded in mystery that shroud, in this metaphor, being the corona.Paradoxically, the corona is hundreds of times hotter than the surface of the Sun, reaching temperatures up to 3.6 million degrees Fahrenheit, compared to a comparatively mild 10,000 degrees down below. Scientists still don't agree on why this is the case; shouldn't the region closer to the core be hotter?The corona is also thought to be the originator of solar wind, a constant flow of charged particles that suffuse the solar system, protecting it against more powerful emissions from deep space. (Its existence was predicted nearly 70 years by the NASA probe's namesake, American astrophysicist Eugune Parker.)Close observations of the Sun have long vindicated Parker's theory, but the mechanisms behind solar winds remain unclear. Along with their extreme temperatures, the winds also travel at ludicrous speeds of around one million miles per hour, giving it its immense reach.Feeling the HeatSo, to shine a light on all this, the Parker Solar Probe will have to get up close and personal. It's actually "touched" the Sun before, in a milestone setting flyby within the corona in 2021 but never penetrated this deeply.Repeating the feat will take a deft touch. As Ars explains, a solar probe must orbit at exactly the right distance where it can travel slowly enough to gather data, but also be able to dip out quickly enough so that it doesn't melt.And of course, there's the formidable engineering challenge of designing a probe that's nimble but robust enough to survive the extreme temperatures and temperature changes it will be facing."If you think about just heating and cooling any kind of material, they either go brittle and crumble, or they may go like elastic with a continual change of property," Fox told Ars. "Obviously, with a spacecraft like this, you can't have it making a major property change. You also need something that's lightweight, and you need something that's durable."More on the Sun: A Colossal Solar Flare Just Triggered a Radio Blackout on EarthShare This Article

Image by Getty / FuturismExperts are mighty puzzled after finding that teens are abstaining from drugs more than ever before.In the latest update from the University of Michigan's half-century-long Monitoring the Future study, the school announced that its researchers found a trend of "historically large decreases" in adolescent drug use has only broadened in 2024.Richard Miech, the study's team lead, said he was surprised by the findings."I expected adolescent drug use would rebound at least partially after the large declines that took place during the pandemic onset in 2020," Miech said.In 2024, the study's investigators looked at data from more than 24,000 high school students in 8th, 10th, and 12th grades at more than 270 schools, both public and private.As Miech noted in the press release, the peri-pandemic wave of drug abstention was the largest ever to be recorded but experts expected "that drug use would resurge as the pandemic receded and social distancing restrictions were lifted.""As it turns out," he said, "the declines have not only lasted but have dropped further."In 2024, the researchers found that a whopping 67 percent of high school seniors abstained from drugs (including marijuana), alcohol, and smoking or vaping nicotine within 30 months of being surveyed. In 2017, when the Monitoring the Future study first began looking into drug and alcohol use among teens, that cohort was a far lower 53 percent.Among high school sophomores, 80 percent said they hadn't had any drugs, alcohol, or nicotine in 30 days, and 90 percent of eighth graders said the same. In 2017, those proportions were 69 percent and 80 percent, respectively.As Miech said in an NIH press release, kids who were in eighth grade at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic are now high school seniors and their "unique cohort has ushered in the lowest rates of substance use weve seen in decades."Though drug use rates have, as the UM press release notes, been falling since the 1990s, this post-pandemic plummet is nevertheless significant."This trend in the reduction of substance use among teenagers is unprecedented," explained Nora Volkow, the director of the NIHs National Institute on Drug Abuse, in the agency's statement. "We must continue to investigate factors that have contributed to this lowered risk of substance use to tailor interventions to support the continuation of this trend."More on drugs: Elon Musk's Drug Use Becoming a Problem for Government Security ClearanceShare This Article

These AI models are kind of stupid.Forget-Me-BotsWe've certainly seen our fair share of demented behavior from AI models but dementia? That's a new one.As detailed in a new study published in the journal The BMJ, some of the tech industry's leading chatbots are showing clear signs of mild cognitive impairment. And, like with humans, the effects become more pronounced with age, with the older large language models performing the worst out of the bunch.The point of the work isn't to medically diagnose these AIs, but to rebuff a tidal wave of research suggesting that the tech is competent enough to be used in the medical field, especially as a diagnostic tool."These findings challenge the assumption that artificial intelligence will soon replace human doctors, as the cognitive impairment evident in leading chatbots may affect their reliability in medical diagnostics and undermine patients' confidence," the researchers wrote.Generative GeriatricsThe brainiacs on trial here are OpenAI's GPT-4 and GPT-4o; Anthropic's Claude 3.5 Sonnet, and Google's Gemini 1.0 and 1.5.When subjected to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a test designed to detect early signs of dementia,with a higher scoring indicating a superior cognitive ability, GPT-4o scored the highest (26 out of 30, which barely meets the threshold of what's normal), while the Gemini family scored the lowest (16 out of 30, horrendous).All the chatbots excelled at most types of tasks, like naming, attention, language, and abstraction, the researchers found.But that's overshadowed by the areas where the AIs struggled in. Every single one ofthem performed poorly with visuospatial and executive tasks, such as drawing a line between circled numbers in ascending order. Drawing a clock showing a specified time also proved too formidable for the AIs.Embarrassingly, both Gemini models outright failed at a fairly simple delayed recall task which involves remembering a five word sequence. That obviously doesn't speak to a stellar cognitive ability in general, but you can see why this would be especially problematic for doctors, who must process whatever new information their patients tell them and not just work off what's written down on their medical sheet.You might also want your doctor to not be a psychopath. Based on the tests, however, the researchers found that all the chatbots showed an alarming lack of empathy which is a hallmark symptom of frontotemporal dementia, they said.Memory WardIt can be a bad habit to anthropomorphize AI models and talk about them as if they're practically human. After all, that's basically what the AI industry wants you to do. And the researchers say they're aware of this risk, acknowledging the essential differences between a brain and an LLM.But if tech companies are talking about these AI models like they're already conscious beings, why not hold them to the same standard that humans are?On those terms the AI industry's own terms these chatbots are floundering."Not only are neurologists unlikely to be replaced by large language models any time soon, but our findings suggest that they may soon find themselves treating new, virtual patients artificial intelligence models presenting with cognitive impairment," the researchers wrote.Share This Article

TravelADs Places to Travel in 2025, According to our Global EditorsFrom far-flung corners in Bali to the beaches of Sicily, these are the spots you must have on your radar this yearBy Laura ItzkowitzArchitecture + DesignAD100 ArchitectsThese firms offering architecture and architectural design services are responsible for elegant residences, buildings, and renovations in the U.S. and abroadBy The Editors of ADdesignHow Wicked Built Immersive Real-Life Sets, From Shiz To Emerald CityToday, AD welcomes production designer Nathan Crowley to explain how he designed the sets for Wicked. Through his extensive use of practical effects, Crowley designed sets where Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo could shine and come alive as Glinda and Elphaba. From planting nine million tulips for Munchkinland to Shizs 52-foot high set, Crowleys designs for Wicked are truly immersive and nothing short of impressive.WICKED is in theaters November 22, https://www.wickedmovie.com/celebritiesDecorate for Christmas with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley & MoreAs Christmas approaches, AD joins Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Derek Blasberg, and more as they decorate and cook in preparation for the holiday season. Level up your hosting game as you learn how to set the perfect holiday table with interior designer Noz Nozawa and make a delicious meringue tumble with Chef Jeremy Lee.architectureInside a Legendary Modernist Home Designed to Flow Like a WaterfallToday, AD travels to Vancouver, Canada, to tour Eppich House II. Designed in the 1980s by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson for businessman Hugo Eppich, this home uses rigid materials to create soft, organic forms. Curved steel layers cascade down the landscape like a waterfall, while an abundance of windows flood the home with natural light. Everything in the house, from the landscape to the furniture, was designed by Ericksons collaborators and has been beautifully preserved. This home is a feat in modernist architecture and is considered one of Ericksons best designs.celebritiesTouring the Doctor Odyssey Set With Joshua JacksonToday AD joins Joshua Jackson and production designer, Jamie Walker McCall, to tour the set of Ryan Murphys Doctor Odyssey. Bringing The Odyssey cruise ship to life was no mean featfrom a fully functioning pool on the leisure deck to the most stylish infirmary a doctor could ask for, this set creates a luxurious backdrop for all the shows medical drama.interiorsInterior Designer Answers Your Top Design QuestionsToday, AD100 designer David Netto joins Architectural Digest to answer your burning interior design questions. What color combinations should you avoid? Should you hang your TV over the fireplace? Netto shares his expertise to help solve any interior design problems you may face.Special thanks to EllsworthKellyFoundation and Gemini G.E.L. LLCArchitecture + DesignThis 1,000-Square-Foot NYC Apartment Has the Coolest and Most Coveted SunroomArchitect Kristin Luks completed a Rubiks-cube-like renovation to maximize a charming Upper West Side homeBy Kelly DawsonArchitecture + DesignBrandin Cooks: Inside the NFL Players Modern Pacific Northwest HomeThe Dallas Cowboys player and his family trade Texas for bucolic Oregon when hes not on the fieldBy Juliet IzonShopping68 Best Gifts for Women (and Everyone Else in Your Life)Skip the gift cards and get them something theyll actually loveBy Shoko WangerHomes + Decor35 Soulful Rustic Kitchen Ideas Youll Want to CopyIn need of a design brief for your kitchen remodel? Embrace this inviting, time-worn style with our guide to rustic kitchen decorBy Kate JerdeArchitecture + DesignAD100 2025: See the Full List of HonoreesWhen it comes to crafting inspiring spaces inside and out, these are the designers raising the bar todayBy The Editors of AD

submitted by /u/Boonzies [link] [comments]

BusinessGoogle CEO Sundar Pichai says search giant has slashed manager roles by 10% in efficiency driveGoogle CEO Sundar Pichai reportedly said he has slashed a tenth of the search giants managerial roles since last year as part of a drive to become more efficient.In total, Google has reduced the number of managers, directors, and vice presidents within its workforce by 10%, Pichai said during an all-hands meeting on Wednesday.A Google spokesperson said the structural changes described by Pichai are designed have been rolling out since 2023 and did not represent job cuts beyond those previously reported.CEO Sundar Pichai said he has slashed a tenth of Googles managerial roles since last year in an effort to become more efficient. Getty ImagesSome managers were shifted to individual contributor roles meaning they are no longer responsible for other employees. An unspecified number of other managers were laid off, the spokesperson added.Insider was first to report on Pichais remarks. Shares of Google parent Alphabet were flat in Friday trading. Pichai had previously identified durable cost savings as one of Googles key goals for 2024. This year alone, Google has slashed hundreds of jobs across multiple divisions, including its ad sales team, its core engineering team and the hardware division responsible for devices such as the Pixel, Nest and Fitbit.The biggest round of cuts occurred in 2023, when Google cut some 12,000 employees in a major bloodletting.The restructuring has played out as Google attempts to compete with Sam Altmans OpenAI and other burgeoning rivals in the artificial intelligence sector.Google cut some 12,000 employees in 2023. AFP via Getty ImagesGoogle is also in the midst of several high-profile legal battles that could upend its business model including a looming breakup of its search business after a federal judge ruled it was a monopolist last August.Google is just one of many Big Tech giants that have slashed their workforces in recent months due to tightened economic conditions and a desire to shift more resources toward the artificial intelligence race.Mark Zuckerberg famously declared 2023 to be a year of efficiency at Meta while slashing tens of thousands of jobs at the Facebook and Instagram parent.Metas middle managers were reportedly told to shift to individual contributor roles or leave as part of what was reportedly described internally as flattening.

Image: Nintendo LifeFew video games can lay claim to having such enormous influence on both gamers and the industry at large as Tetris. All who played Alexey Pajitnov's block-falling puzzler fell for its elegant design and Nintendo in particular harnessed its addictiveness to great effect as a pack-in title that made 'Game Boy' an essential purchase and a household name.But what's the best Tetris game? Is the Game Boy iteration still the most popular decades later? We've compiled this definitive ranking of Tetris games to answer just that question, so you can dump the garbage and focus on clearing lines in the best possible way.Let's see how they stack up, shall we? We'll start at the bottom...On this page: Best Tetris Games, Ranked - Switch And Nintendo Systems32. 3D Tetris (VB)Publisher: NintendoRelease Date: 22nd Mar 1996 (USA)A North American exclusive, 3D Tetris shook up the standard formula by having you look down into the well as the blocks fall away from you. Having to fill in layers rather than make lines feels different to standard Tetris, and the game features 30 different block types, but the spirit of the game you know and love survives very well.Let's face it, the proliferation of more easily accessible Tetris titles would make buying a Virtual Boy to play regular old Tetris a bit silly, no? 3D Tetris, though, is definitely worth investigating. Maybe not worth buying a VB for, but still very good.31. Tetris Party Live (DSiWare)Publisher: Tetris Online / Developer: Hudson SoftRelease Date: 22nd Nov 2010 (USA) / 3rd Dec 2010 (UK/EU)If you were feeling competitive and had a Nintendo WiFi Connection, Tetris Party Live essentially a short-lived, scaled-down version of the other Tetris Party titles let you take on up to four players online.In addition to the regulation Marathon mode and vs CPU modes, the game offered online play for up to four players in either the Battle Mode or a Duel Space challenge, where you tried to drop blocks to take up the most area on the playing field. This might have seemed tacked-on, but it served up an interesting twist on the original formula and one that could get quite intense.You could choose to tackle online challengers or stick with your friends via Friend Codes, and you could also practise while waiting for an online match to start up. Not bad for an early, Nintendo-handheld foray into the online world. The strange lack of a local multiplayer option was a minus point, but otherwise this was a compelling multiplayer Tetris take on the DSi.30. Tetris Worlds (GCN)Publisher: THQ / Developer: Radical EntertainmentRelease Date: 23rd Jun 2002 (USA) / 27th Sep 2002 (UK/EU)The first of THQ's Tetrises, this 2002 entry introduced a world of modes and a controversial 'infinite' spin feature that essentially let you rotate a piece at the bottom of the well as long as you wanted. Talk about Tetris forever.Tetris Worlds also introduced little cuboid aliens (Minos) sending out Tetronauts in search of other worlds to escape from an impending supernova by, naturally, playing Tetris.Ignoring the creaking narrative intended to differentiate what was essentially the same game everyone had been playing for well over a decade, one redeeming feature well, memorable perhaps, at least to impressionable teenage ears, at the time, two decades ago (is that enough caveats?) was the sultry voice of the announcer. Pop on some earphones, listen to this voice whispering "Go for a Hot Line", and tell us you don't get a little...tingle.Tetris Worlds, then. The most sensual Tetris. Until Tetris Effect.29. Tetris Worlds (GBA)Publisher: THQ / Developer: 3d6 GamesRelease Date: 24th Sep 2001 (USA) / 7th Dec 2001 (UK/EU)Developed by 3d6 Games, the GBA version of Tetris Worlds was released the year before the home console versions and didn't feature the husky voice of the announcer that bewitched us on GameCube.So, then. 2/10 - not enough husk. Let's crack on with something better.28. Magical Tetris Challenge (GBC)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 17th Feb 2000 (USA) / 24th Mar 2000 (UK/EU)Add Tetris to the magical pairing of Capcom and Disney and you can't go too far wrong. With Capcom, you're going to get a base level of quality, at least, and Magical Tetris Challenge delivers on the artistic side, with great pixel art and animation worthy of the characters.Similar to how Rare jammed some top-down, RPG-lite gameplay into Mickey's Speedway on GBC, Capcom added a Quest mode to the portable version that saw you wandering around and chatting with other Disney characters while collecting coins and you guessed it playing Tetris.We especially enjoy the animation box with the characters operating levers and knobs (probably) to 'play' the game, and you get plenty of modes and a decent Disney flavour. But if you're just after Tetris-ass Tetris, you're better off steering clear of the Disney fluff.27. Tetris Axis (3DS)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: HudsonRelease Date: 2nd Oct 2011 (USA) / 21st Oct 2011 (UK/EU)Tetris Axis falls well short of 'spectacular' but wasn't a bad addition to the classic's illustrious handheld legacy, with its expanded online component and oddly addictive Fever mode.Hudson chose to not reinvent the Tetromino following the Tetris Party series, instead providing a polished and accessible version of Russia's ultimate gaming export, even if the end product was on the bland and disjointed side.Many of the modes may have been flash and fluff, but the core game here was as addictive and fun as ever, and the overall package was compelling enough. But that ain't gonna cut it in the 'Best Tetris' ranks.26. Tetris 2 (NES)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: Oct 1993 (USA) / 1993 (UK/EU)The incredible success of the original game meant a sequel was inevitable, but when you've created a puzzler as singularly refined as Tetris, how exactly do you create a new take which does anything but dilute the first game's purity of expression? Sequels are meant to polish and introduce new and better mechanics how do you do that with Tetris?Tetris 2 essentially has you playing Dr. Mario with tetrominoes. It's not bad, by any means, but it's certainly not better than Tetris, so it's difficult to play it and not think you could be having a better time.25. Magical Tetris Challenge (N64)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 14th Jan 1999 (USA) / Sep 1999 (UK/EU)Tetris with all the Disney trimmings, the home console version of Magical Tetris Challenge has all the charming animation you'd expect and Capcom rarely drops the T-piece when it comes to art although the combination of classic-style pixel-art characters 'working the Tetris machines, the morphing pre-rendered 'heads of the machines up top, the static backgrounds, and the Tetrominmoes themselves don't quite gel, aesthetically speaking.The extra screen real estate means you can see your opponent's well in this one, though, and the story mode, simple as it is, is fairly cute. Overall, then, another inessential Tetris tie-in with a bunch of goofy (ha!) modes that does the job well enough.24. Tetris 2 (GB)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo R&D1Release Date: Dec 1993 (USA) / 27th Oct 1994 (UK/EU)This time its personal. A sequel to the system-selling puzzler was an absolute given, of course, and looking back on Tetris 2 all these years later, its admirable just how much of a departure it was from the original classic.Named Tetris Flash in Japan, it takes the basic falling-blocks gameplay but adds in a match-three element with irregularly-shaped tetrominoes. Its jarring at first if disappearing horizontal lines are burnt into your brain, but give it time and youll find a surprisingly addictive little puzzle game in its own right.23. Tetris Ultimate (3DS)Publisher: Ubisoft / Developer: UbisoftRelease Date: 11th Nov 2014 (USA) / 14th Nov 2014 (UK/EU)Tetris Ultimate largely lives up to its name; its a comprehensive collection of Tetris gameplay modes with various optional tweaks and tremendous online and local multiplayer.It must be said, though, that except for the new Challenge modes, theres nothing new here that any Tetris veteran hasnt already played, and it's all a bit bland. The Challenge modes are clearly targeted towards such experienced Tetris-heads, but the longevity isnt as extensive as the original Marathon mode, which is still probably the most fun you can have with Tetris by yourself.Putting it simply, at the end of the day its just Tetris. If that's what you're looking for and you're still rocking a 3DS for whatever reason, that's just fine. Still, if you're able to plug Tetris DS into the very same cart slot, there's not much reason bothering with this.22. Tetrisphere (N64)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: H2O EntertainmentRelease Date: Feb 1998 (UK/EU)Developed by H2O Entertainment (The New Tetris, Aidyn Chronicles), with input from Alexey Pajitnov and championing from NOA's Ken Lobb, Tetrisphere's greatest strength was its genuinely unique take on position-falling-blocks-to-clear-blocks formula.The general idea is to drop pieces onto the outer layer of a sphere to form clumps of same-type pieces which clear until you get to the centre. Various power-ups including missiles could be used to blast away great chunks of the sphere, too, clearing a path to release the robot trapped in the sphere.Add in a decent multiplayer mode and some great techno tunes and you've got a game we sincerely hope will come to Nintendo Switch Online for another chance to shine. And a VR reimagining would surely have potential.The complexity of the added dimension isn't for everyone, of course. "I enjoyed playing Tetrisphere [...] but the game should be simple," Pajitnov told us in 2019. "That game was too complicated."21. Tetris Party Deluxe (DS)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Hudson SoftRelease Date: 25th May 2010 (USA)The DS version of Tetris Party Deluxe isn't bad far from it but issue it's got is that when you've got one of the all-time great Tetrises on the platform (one that's got the platform's name in the title, no less), you're always going to look like the also-ran.There are plenty of great modes here, including Bombliss and a neat Shadow mode, but if you're a block-faller fanatic after dual-screen kicks, your Tetris is in another castle.20. Tetris Blast (GB)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Bullet-Proof SoftwareRelease Date: Jan 1996 (USA) / 1996 (UK/EU)Having secured the rights to Tetris, Nintendo wasnt shy about expanding/exploiting the concept or just the name in various other puzzle games.Known as Super Bombliss in Japan and essentially the BomBliss portion of the Japan-only Tetris 2 + BomBliss broken out on its own, Tetris Blast has each of the falling blocks (this time mixing two and three-block shapes in with the standard tetrominoes) contain at least one bomb. Completing a line causes any bombs contained in that line to explode within a set radius. If you manage to obliterate the entire board, you move on to the next stage.Its a unique and enjoyable take on the original game, with a password system and a Fight mode where you battle against comical bosses who move around the well. Now also available as part of Tetris Forever, so it's easy to check out.19. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: SEGARelease Date: 8th Dec 2020 (USA) / 8th Dec 2020 (UK/EU)Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 could never have hoped to have the same impact as the first game, but it remains a brilliant puzzle title nevertheless. While some may feel it's not quite different enough from its predecessor, the new single-player story is just as entertaining as the last one, and the Skill Battle mode adds interesting mechanics to the mix.It's still absolutely packed with content; it's just that the first game was too, so the impact is lessened slightly.18. Tetris Attack (GB)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Intelligent SystemsRelease Date: Aug 1996 (USA) / 28th Nov 1996 (UK/EU)Known as Panel de Pon in Japan, Tetris Attack was released on Game Boy and Super Nintendo, although its Tetris in name only the actual game bears almost no resemblance to Alexey Pajitnov's game. The Western versions also saw characters from Super Mario World 2: Yoshis Island co-opted in an effort to attract an audience to this Intelligent Systems joint.Despite this blatant marketing ploy, Tetris Attack is a cracking block-swapping puzzler in its own right and well worth checking out alongside its more famous Russian namesake.17. Puyo Puyo Tetris (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: Sonic TeamRelease Date: 25th Apr 2017 (USA) / 28th Apr 2017 (UK/EU)What happens when you throw arguably the two most popular falling block puzzle games in a blender? Its a miracle that the result wasnt a horrible, horrible mess, but Puyo Puyo Tetris mixes the two so confidently that it doesnt occur to you how catastrophic this cocktail could have been.Sonic Team respects the fundamentals of each series and offers a rock-solid game of both, but isnt afraid to have fun stirring them together. Theres a bevvy of multiplayer options for up to four people, and everything is presented with a vigour and verve which belies the decades-long history behind both puzzle genre titans.The Story mode is well, its a bit nuts, but its there if you want it (we were glad for the skip button). More importantly, the wealth of modes available means aficionados of either series have more than enough to occupy themselves with. In fact, its possible to pretty much ignore your least favourite, but that would be a great shame; this is a glorious firework of a crossover, uniting puzzle fans of all creeds and it shines very brightly on Switch.16. Arcade Archives TETRIS THE ABSOLUTE THE GRAND MASTER 2 PLUS (Switch eShop)Publisher: HAMSTER / Developer: ArikaRelease Date: 1st Jun 2023 (USA) / 1st Jun 2023 (UK/EU)This 'Plus' version of the first sequel to Arika's Grand Master series was bought to Switch by Hamster in 2023, but the original came out in arcades in 2000.Incorporating a ranking system that tops out with the titular 'Grand Master' if you're good enough, these versions are the choice of connoisseurs and absolute purists, putting your skills to the test with devastating speed and dastardly requirements that absolutely flummox mere mortals for whom seeing the shuttle blast off in the Game Boy version is a serious accomplishment.15. Arcade Archives TETRIS THE GRAND MASTER (Switch eShop)Publisher: HAMSTER / Developer: ArikaRelease Date: 1st Dec 2022 (UK/EU)The Grand Master series is Tetris for the hardest of core series fans. Arika's 1998 arcade take on the puzzler most people learned to play on a handheld made competition a central tenant, with ranks awarded depending on the speed and skill displayed, and a nail-biting difficulty which meant only the best of the best were honoured with the eponymous title.Hamster's Arcade Archives Switch port makes it accessible to the masses, as in you can access it easily, but mastering this game requires untold dedication. If you're a Tetris fan looking for a challenge, step right up.14. The New Tetris (N64)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: H2O EntertainmentRelease Date: 31st Jul 1999 (USA) / 15th Oct 1999 (UK/EU)The New Tetris is somewhat like The Old Tetris, although the addition of a new square block-based mechanic, an EDM soundtrack, and a four-player mode gives it a very particular (and addictive) flavour.It came from H20 Entertainment, the same team behind the similarly interesting Tetrisphere and is worth investigating if you can't get enough variations on the king of block-fallers.13. Tetris Party Deluxe (Wii)Publisher: Tetris Online / Developer: HudsonRelease Date: 1st Jun 2010 (USA) / 3rd Sep 2010 (UK/EU)Essentially the retail version of the non-Deluxe WiiWare release with extras, Tetris Party Deluxe had a whole ton of multiplayer modes, including 2v2 co-op and Wii Balance Board support carried over from the original version, compatible with a handful of modes. Yes, the Wii Balance Board: the ideal way to play Tetris. Or are DK Bongos preferred?As party games go, a block-falling puzzler might not be your first pick. However, Hudson made a decent case for a few rounds of Tetris to get the party started.12. Tetris Forever (Switch eShop)Publisher: Digital Eclipse / Developer: Digital EclipseRelease Date: 12th Nov 2024 (USA) / 12th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)Tetris Forever might not be the final word on the complete history of Tetris it's missing too many of the best versions but it's certainly a great breakdown of the franchise's creation and evolution so far. Digital Eclipse has truly mastered the art of the interactive documentary, and this one is absolutely filled to the brim with interesting videos, interviews, and archival material - not to mention Tetrises.The playable games don't necessarily represent the most varied selection across the Tetris franchise, but it's a comprehensive bunch of titles, including a recreation of the original Electronika 60 version, a whole bunch of Famicom and Super Famicom variants and spin-offs (many getting their first official release outside Japan), and a couple of MS-DOS entries, including Welltris.On top of that, newcomer Tetris Time Warp is a fantastic addition to a back catalogue that seemingly won't stop growing. All in all, a fascinating and near-essential round-up of one of gaming's most important series.11. Tetris Party (WiiWare)Publisher: Tetris OnlineRelease Date: 20th Oct 2008 (USA) / 24th Oct 2008 (UK/EU)If you're Tetris-starved though we're not quite sure how anyone could be you can't go wrong with Tetris Party, although you'll have a job finding the WiiWare version these days. As the name implies, the game was specifically meant for local multiplayer and added Miis and Wii Balance Board support to the mix for that added Nintendo feel.Playing against friends is incredible fun, but if you're not able to round up anyone, there's not much point. Yes, the basic single-player is as rock solid as its ever been, but as far as the other modes go, there is only so much fun to get from AI opponents.The online part was great in its day, but that day has long since passed and you won't be buying this on WiiWare - you'll need to track down a copy of the expanded Deluxe retail version. Unfortunately, this particular Party's over.10. Tetris & Dr. Mario (SNES)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo R&D1Release Date: Dec 1994 (USA) / 25th Jul 1995 (UK/EU)There's not a huge amount to say about this one. Combining 16-bit remasters of NES Tetris and Dr. Mario, SNES owners in the West got a double helping of puzzling that included a Mixed Match mode which jumped from game to game between rounds. Beyond that, this is pretty much regulation Tetris and Dr. Mario.Interestingly, thanks to Nintendo not owning the console rights in Japan, the Tetris part was stripped out and 16-bit Dr. Mario was broadcast for Satellaview and later made available to download on SFC flash carts at kiosks.9. Tetris (Tengen) (NES)Publisher: Tengen / Developer: AtariRelease Date: May 1989 (USA)While Henk Rogers and Nintendo's Tetris success is often celebrated thanks to the overwhelming success of the Game Boy and NES entries, this NES entry was a victim of a labyrinthine network of licensing, sub-licensing, and confusion around exactly which companies held which rights as agreed with Russian-state-owned ELORG, the sole handler of Tetris rights until the mid-1990s.Atari Games' 1989 version (published under the Tengen label) boasted a two-player mode that Nintendidn't, yet legal issues led to it being pulled from store shelves after only a month. Thanks to its short shelf life, copies are worth a decent amount these days.The story of Tetris' convoluted journey to the West (deemed exciting enough to adapt into movie form, although we much prefer the BBC documentary Tetris: From Russia With Love) is a thrilling combination of guile, subterfuge, and blind luck that went on to shape Nintendo and the video game industry at large. Tengen Tetris was one of the casualties along the way.8. Tetris Plus (GB)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: JalecoRelease Date: 25th Aug 1997 (USA) / 1996 (UK/EU)This Jaleco-developed spin on the formula came to various platforms (PlayStation, Saturn, and arcade) and bundles your common-or-garden Tetris mode with the 'plus' bit, the latter in the form of a separate puzzle mode which introduces a world-hopping professor and his assistant hunting treasure in exotic locales.The plundering prof frequently finds himself in the bottom wells with spikes descending slowly but steadily from above. It's up to you to clear lines in the usual way to open the path to his goal and getaway at the bottom.Tetris Plus isn't a life-changer, but it's a cute variation on the theme and is fondly remembered.7. Tetris Attack (SNES)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Intelligent SystemsRelease Date: 1st Aug 1996 (USA) / 28th Nov 1996 (UK/EU)Available On: Nintendo Switch OnlineThe Tetris branding was a misnomer here, a pure marketing strategy to give this wonderful puzzler a leg up in the West. Panel de Pon is a cracking puzzle game that doesn't resemble Tetris in the slightest the blocks rise rather than fall, for a start and if you've never played it before, you're in for a real treat.If you've somehow misplaced your original cart (how very careless), you can check it out most easily on Switch, although you won't find Tetris Attack anywhere on the menu screen of your Nintendo Switch Online Super NES app; it's listed under its Japanese title, almost certainly due to Nintendo not wanting to pay The Tetris Company in order to use the name again.It's so incredibly addictive that Capcom's Shinji Mikami had to ban the game while his team was developing the original Resident Evil. As recommendations go, that's not a bad one! Tetris it ain't, but it's bloody good nonetheless.6. Tetris DX (GBC)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: 18th Nov 1998 (USA) / 1st Jul 1999 (UK/EU)Available On: Nintendo Switch OnlineIt's Tetris, in colour what's not to like? The colour helped differentiate the pieces and a couple of new modes were added, plus a save feature, but this was really just the original Game Boy entry with added hues.In any other case that might feel like a disappointment, but a quick bash on Tetris DX is enough to make you forget you've played it for hundreds of hours before in black and white green.5. Tetris (NES)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo R&D1Release Date: Nov 1989 (USA) / 23rd Feb 1990 (UK/EU)Available On: Nintendo Switch OnlineThe Game Boy version of this video gaming titan might be the most iconic and certainly more convenient to play when you're out and about but the ability to relax with Tetris on your TV wasn't to be sniffed at, either. Some prefer the Tengen version, which disappeared from stores soon after release due to a licensing snafu, but this non-controversial port is also a winner.It's Tetris, just on the NES. 'Nuff said, really. There's no shortage of ways to play, but this very first Nintendo-developed home console version was never re-released - until its NSO appearance in December 2024.4. Tetris 99 (Switch eShop)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: ArikaRelease Date: 13th Feb 2019 (USA) / 14th Feb 2019 (UK/EU)The endearing oddball of the family, Tetris 99 offers a truly unique way to play the tried-and-tested classic, even if the overall package feels a little lightweight. Playing live against 98 others is chaotic, and the action feels fast, precise, and wonderfully addictive.Its seriously difficult, too wed fancy our chances in Fortnite over this any day and were impressed with the fact that it's forced us to play the game with a completely different approach to our usual slow-and-steady ways.Signing up for Nintendo Switch Online just to play this game might be a bit of a stretch, but if youre already a member, what are you waiting for? Its 'free' and it might just become your next favourite time sink.3. Tetris Effect: Connected (Switch eShop)Publisher: Enhance Games / Developer: ResonairRelease Date: 8th Oct 2021 (USA) / 8th Oct 2021 (UK/EU)Tetris Effect: Connected is perhaps the best iteration of the classic puzzler yet.While this Switch port doesn't offer a great deal over existing versions in terms of features, it delivers the one key ingredient that its rivals cannot: portability. Sure, some will argue that Tetris Effect: Connected's unique brand of synesthesia only really comes alive when played on PSVR or an Oculus Quest headset, but we'd argue passionately that this game benefits far more from the ability to pick it up and play whenever, wherever.Just as the Game Boy and Tetris combined to create an irresistible, world-conquering fusion back in 1989, Tetris Effect: Connected found the hardware that allowed it to truly shine, making this an utterly essential purchase for all Nintendo Switch owners. Don't forget those headphones.2. Tetris DS (DS)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo SPDRelease Date: 20th Mar 2006 (USA) / 21st Apr 2006 (UK/EU)You can see the 9am meeting at Nintendo HQ now: "Mornin'. So, we're putting Tetris on the new portable and we need a name. Thoughts?"Fortunately, Nintendo SPD didn't head straight to the pub after striking upon the groundbreaking Tetris DS title, but instead knuckled down to produce one of the finest iterations of the block-falling classic ever made. With touch controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a truckload of Nintendo nods and winks, it is still one of the best ways to play the game and well worth tracking down if you've never had the pleasure.In fact, 'Tetris DS' is a misnomer; with visuals and audio that cleverly work Nintendo's 8-bit catalogue and characters into the experience, plus myriad modes that expand beyond the standard gameplay in intriguing, brilliant ways, 'Tetris: Nintendo Edition' would be a far better fit.1. Tetris (GB)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: 31st Jul 1989 (USA) / 28th Sep 1990 (UK/EU)Available On: Nintendo Switch OnlineWith few of the bells and whistles that would arrive later on, Game Boy Tetris is arguably the purest expression of the original block-falling idea.There have been countless ports of this addictive puzzler made available for just about every electronic device in existence (and we've seen a lot of them above), but the Game Boy version is arguably the most beloved and its clear visuals, responsive controls, and that theme tune make it easy to appreciate why.The very deadliest of killer apps, no self-respecting Game Boy enthusiast should be without a copy.Image: Damien McFerran / Nintendo LifeAnd that's how the pieces fell - all the Tetris games, ranked (or all the ones on Nintendo platforms). Phew!Best Tetris FAQBefore we take off in our space shuttle, let's answer some common questions readers often ask about the Tetris series.What's the most recent Tetris game?Tetris Forever is the most recent entry at the time of writing.Arika and The Tetris Company have announced that Tetris The Grandmaster 4 - Absolute Eye -, a new instalment in The Grand Master series, is due to release in March 2024.The first two GM games are available on Switch, although Steam is the only announced platform for this offline-only game at the moment.What's the hardest Tetris game?Speak of the devil, The Grand Master series is generally considered to be the toughest Tetris going.But it really depends on the mode and the difficulty setting. Any Tetris game can be immensely challenging, but Arika's series is designed to test the best with arcade-style ranking and an incredibly high skill ceiling.What's the best Tetris game on Switch specifically?Tetris Effect: Connected is the best Tetris on Switch, according to our list above!What's the best-selling Tetris game?Tetris for the Game Boy is the best-selling Tetris game of all time, with over 35 million copies sold.That enormous figure also puts it in the top 20 best-selling video games ever, and a vast number of those were packed in with the Game Boy hardware, highlighting what a canny move it was for Nintendo to bundle it in.Hang on, why isn't [insert Tetris game here] included?We've only included Tetris games released in the West (so no V-Tetris or Tetris 64, with its heartbeat monitor and Bio Tetris mode that altered the difficulty depending on your pulse) and only games that actually have the word 'Tetris' in the title. This means some misleadingly monikered spin-offs can be found on the list above, but stuff like Hatris is off the menu.We also excluded curio crossover Pokmon Tetris from the Pokmon Mini. Time ExtensionNew collection gives Pocket Monsters some cross-platform visablityHow can I change the ranking in this article?We enlisted the help of Nintendo Life readers to rate every Tetris game above. The ranking is governed by each entry's User Rating in our game database, and is therefore subject to change right now, even as you're reading this!Disagree with the ranking? Try searching for your favourite Tetris games in the box below and rate them to influence the order.Tetris creator Alexey Pajitnov with Henk Rogers, who secured the console rights to the game for Nintendo Image: Zion Grassl / Nintendo LifeWell done for sticking it out until the end! Let us know where your favourite Tetris ranks below. "I dont like the square. Its dumb"Up Next: Tomb RaiderShare:01 Gavin first wrote for Nintendo Life in 2018 before joining the site full-time the following year, rising through the ranks to become Editor. He can currently be found squashed beneath a Switch backlog the size of Normandy. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related Articles46 Games You Should Pick Up In The Nintendo Switch eShop Holiday Sale (Europe)Every game we scored 9/10 or higherPokmon TCG Pocket: Mew EX Deck GuideMew EX is here to keep the meta in checkPokmon TCG Pocket: Celebi EX Deck GuideOh no, this Grass fairy is going to be a problemPokmon TCG Pocket: Tier List & Best DecksNow including Mythical IslandBest Nintendo Switch Couch Co-op GamesWhat are the best couch co-op games on Switch?

On November 15, Peter Wang posted a message requesting ideas for a new incubator and fund to support experimental projects built on the burgeoning Bluesky/AT Protocol ecosystem. Four weeks later, Skyseed emerged with an initial commitment of $1 million.This turnaround, a speed underscored by the fact that the fund doesnt even have a website yet (it does have a Bluesky profile, though), is testament to several things: the hype around Bluesky, which is emerging as a lifeboat for millions who have abandoned X (ne Twitter). But theres also an almost tangible hope that by starting afresh on a new social platform built on an open, decentralized network such as the AT Protocol, we might avoid the ad-driven, walled gardens that permeate social networking today.The vast majority of Facebooks revenue is from ads. All the major centralized social media companies are advertising companies, which means they trade in traffic and the users attention, Wang told TechCrunch in an interview this week. The main difference between an open protocol versus a closed one is that the closed ones will never tolerate the existence of applications that take the content of the graph away, and take user-attention away from their properties.The decentralized webWang is co-founder, chief AI and innovation officer, and former CEO of Anaconda, a company built upon the eponymous open source Python and R distribution that helps data scientists build, test, and deploy all their data-driven projects.Separately, Wang has been an avid backer of the decentralized web, providing financial support for projects such as Blue Link Labs, which developed the peer-to-peer open source web browser Beaker. Official support for Beaker ended in 2022, with creator Paul Frazee joining Bluesky as protocol engineer before formally becoming CTO in April.And this foundational work on Beaker was to Blueskys benefit. While the Beaker project is coming to an official end, the heart of Beaker continues with Bluesky, Frazee wrote in a post announcing the end of Beaker. I hope the work we do will make Beakers end a little less painful in the long run.Fast-forward to today, and Wang is extending his support for decentralization into a formal seed fund. Ive done angel investing, but this is my first time creating a fund and taking responsibility for other peoples money, Wang said. I was funding Paul [Frazee] and his team for a number of years. They tried different things to build decentralized web technologies, with middling to low success. But all those lessons learned, I think, have fed into the [Bluesky] design, the protocol, and the apps.While the decentralized web is far from a novel concept, what it has lacked is a meaningful number of people gravitating toward something like the AT Protocol: an open source, open standards-based framework that promises the ability to enable users to retain ownership of their data and shift to other platforms on the protocol.There are people who have been in the decentralized web community for a long time, who have really waited for this moment, Wang said. Weve had lots of good ideas; weve just not had the users. Now we have the users.Like the internet in 1996After posting his request for ideas in mid-November, Wang says he was inundated with people reaching out to him with proposals, noting that the enthusiasm reminded him of the internet in 1996.With all these technical ecosystems, you really need those early adopters and innovators to feel empowered to go and do all the creative things they want to do, Wang said. When I started seeing the quality of some of these early things that were being built, it became clear to me that something very good could come out of this.Peter Wangs Bluesky post.Image Credits:ScreenshotDigging into the makeup of Skyseed reveals two core components: the fund and the incubator. The majority of the initial $1 million comes from Wang himself, though he says some angel friends have also put in six-figure sums. Moreover, he says the fund has actually grown closer to $1.5 million, a figure that could stretch higher if current momentum maintains, with potential for formal accredited investors to get involved.It is mostly angels for now, but as soon as I made the announcement, I had maybe half a dozen people express interest in the fund as limited partners, Wang said. Just seeing the traction now, Im thinking there are a lot more ways to deploy capital, and theres a lot more capital thats interested in this early-stage stuff.Initial checks are likely to be in the region of $100,000, though this will be directed at projects that have real business models, real teams, and real products, Wang said, enabling them to get to a certain proof point and raise more serious follow-on funding.But how big can Skyseed itself get as a fund?I think we could get to $5 [million] to $10 million, especially as we start seeing some proof points here, Wang said.In addition to making formal equity investments, Skyseed will also be issuing developer grants (like Bluesky itself is doing), which will be in the region of $5,000 to $25,000.The grants are quite selective, in the sense that I am just turning over money to someone. I have to really trust their technical vision and ability to execute, Wang said. So generally, it will be people who already have some tools theyve put out there that I think have quality and merit either Im using them, or I know people who are using them.Some developer grants will be doled out by the end of the year, with the main equity capital likely to begin trickling out early in the new year. Ive already got my eyes on a few projects that are obviously great. Theyre not gonna be too capital intensive, and if I can get someone off of ramen mode just to build and focus, then thats fine, Wang added. A lot of these projects dont need a lot of funding to get far, because theyre just one person, or maybe a small two-person team working in their spare time.On the incubator side, meanwhile, Wang says that Skyseed will operate as a mechanism for like-minded people to bounce ideas off each other, with a view toward collaboration particularly where complementary projects exist.It will be a fairly active mentorship, and itll be a network where theyre helping each other, Wang said. What Im seeing is that there are a lot of projects in different spaces, which have similar things they want to do. So some of this is also going to be founder matchmaking.Dunbars numberBluesky, at the end of the day, is just another app, and its already facing some of the same moderation challenges that X has faced almost since its inception, and advertising might land on the platform, too. But this highlights some of the potential benefits of a proper ecosystem cropping up off the back of the AT Protocol.Dunbars number is a concept from British biological anthropologist Robin Dunbar that suggests a cognitive limit to how many humans can stably exist within a given social context. That number is 150. Social media plays fast-and-loose with that figure, propelling billions of people into the same social sphere, with chaos in hot pursuit; large-scale social networks force people to engage with people who they would likely avoid in real life. The AT Protocol upends that, allowing all manner of niche and micro-networks built on the same underlying framework.We dont have to all fit inside the same, one-size-fits-all app, Wang said. The whole point of the protocol is to build many different kinds of apps, and let a lot of different kinds of user experiences flourish.In the few days following the launch, Wang says he had in the region of 50 projects come in, and though he was unable to confirm what projects will ultimately get funded, he did share some of his ideas on the kinds of tools that might emerge if the AT Protocol is given the space to breathe. Alternatives to Bluesky itself are definitely on the agenda as far as the AT Protocol is concerned. This could be more of a child- and family-focused incarnation, with kid social graphs branching off of parents social graphs and granular controls over data privacy, for example. Or it could be something focused on dissident journalism or whistleblowers, or maybe something for marginalized communities.Equally, it could be something akin to a Reddit clone, or socially infused alternatives to the likes of SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or even Google Maps. Some folks have built photo-centric apps similar to Instagram, others are looking to build event-coordination platforms like Eventbrite or Partiful that are social graph-infused, Wang said.While it remains to be seen how such products might actually look, they could also serve as the infrastructure for an entirely new ecosystem of apps to grow on. And this gets to the heart of what Wang is striving for with his fund.So all these things that currently exist in the beating heart of all the big social media companies might now invert out, and become pieces of an ecosystem that is modular and which other people can build on, Wang said.Importantly, this doesnt rule out ad-supported networks or subscriptions it just gives options.You absolutely can have advertising-supported things, but you have to do it in balance as a business model, Wang said. The unfortunate thing about the big social media companies is that they stumbled into advertising and the attention economy, and by that time it was too late, they already owed billions of dollars to investors. So thats the primary difference. Were just going to try a different evolutionary path.Forked offDespite all the brouhaha about openness and decentralization, theres no ignoring the elephant in the room: Bluesky, controllers of not only its own app but also the underlying open source protocol, is a privately held company with the usual array of VC backers. And as weve seen countless times through the years, open source isnt always permanent.Put simply, there is plenty of scope for things to go sideways, both at Bluesky and the protocol on which its built. But Wang doesnt see this as a problem.In almost all open source ecosystems, users are the final jury, he said. If a big company decides to strip-mine an open source project, if none of the users use it, then it doesnt matter. And if users rebel against it, then they can make a fork and use that. You always have this right to exit and do alternative innovation.While a lot of the projects that might get funded will be spare-time side hussles, the same could also be said about Skyseed itself. It all sounds like a hell of a lot of work, with no managing partners or admins currently on the books.It really is something Im doing on the side, Wang said. But there are a lot of allies, and a lot of people who are hopeful that this will go well. Ive been unapologetic about grabbing their time. Part of what Im going to be doing here over the holidays is getting some of that structure set up.

Kanpur Indian Institute of Technology | FacadeIn the post-independence era, India embarked on an ambitious journey to redefine its identity through education and technological innovation. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) system, established to foster excellence in engineering and sciences, symbolized this national vision. Among these institutions, the IIT Kanpur campus, designed by Kanvinde Rai and Chowdhury, is a masterpiece of modernist architecture, blending international principles with a distinctly Indian ethos. Kanvinde, a trailblazer of modern Indian architecture, drew from Le Corbusiers philosophies while remaining deeply attuned to Indias socio-cultural and environmental contexts. Kanpur Indian Institute of Technology Technical InformationArchitects1-9: Location: Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, IndiaTotal Area: Approximately 1,000 acresBuilt-Up Area:41,820 m2 | 450,100 Sq. Ft.Project Year: 1959-1965Photographs: Flickr Users & Others, See Caption DetailsOver the years I have come to believe it is imperative that an architect develop a sensitivity to human nature and a respect for human values. Achyut KanvindeKanpur Indian Institute of Technology PhotographsComputer Center Building Nicholas Iyadurai, Flickr UsersCourtyardAerial View1960s Photograph1960s Photograph1960s Photograph1960s Photograph Kanvinde, Rai and Chowdhury Kanvinde, Rai and ChowdhuryIndian Institute of Technology, Kanpur Design PhilosophyThe IIT Kanpur campus exemplifies a paradigm shift in campus planning, influenced by the visionary ideas of director P.K. Kelkar, project co-ordinator Norman Dahl, and program architect Russell Wood. Kanvindes design replaced isolated academic departments with an integrated curriculum, promoting interconnectedness and flexibility. This approach redefined the notion of educational spaces, creating a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.The 420-hectare, generally flat site, located on the outskirts of Kanpur and accessed via the Grand Trunk Road, incorporates an irrigation canal running across one side. The academic zone, centrally located and spanning 500m x 450m, is designed to a human scale based on a 5-minute walking distance. Modular clusters are unified by a circulation spine featuring a two-level connecting corridor system and an underground tunnel for services. The layout segregates pedestrian and vehicular traffic, ensuring a safe and dynamic academic core free of vehicles.Kanvinde employed a hierarchy of elements within the campus design, likening it to an organism. The structural skeleton forms the framework of buildings, the muscles are the ordered sequence of linked spaces, and the circulatory system comprises pedestrian pathways and roads. Central to this design is the heart, represented by a plaza dominated by the library, around which the campuss activities revolve.Materiality, Climate Response, and Iconic StructuresKanvindes use of reinforced exposed concrete, combined with high-quality local brick, embodies a response to both modernist aesthetics and practical considerations. Climatic adaptations, such as shaded walkways, louvers, and sunbreakers, are seamlessly integrated into the architectural language, mitigating harsh environmental conditions.The library, the campuss landmark structure, reflects an interplay of form and function. Its hollowed cubic form, projected floors, and skylights create a distinct skyline while ensuring optimal light and ventilation. The elevated walkway system, stilted entrance, and adjoining water body enhance interaction and usability.Other notable structures include the lecture hall complex with fan-shaped, tiered lecture spaces, the faculty building with its modular rhythm and sunshades, and the laboratories featuring curved concrete sun breakers and naturally lit corridors. The computer center, with its iconic staircase and skylights, and the workshops, showcasing large-span steel structures with northlight trusses, further exemplify Kanvindes innovative approach.Legacy and Influence on Indian Architectural PracticeThe IIT Kanpur campus reflects the aspirations of a young, independent India. Its modernist ethos, adapted to local contexts, set a benchmark for institutional architecture in the country. The integrated systems and user-centric design inspire architects and educators, emphasizing the importance of functionality, adaptability, and cultural relevance.Kanvindes work at IIT Kanpur paved the way for future projects, reaffirming the role of architecture in shaping societal progress. As an enduring piece of Indias modern heritage, the campus exemplifies the balance of tradition and innovation, urging architects to create meaningful and resilient spaces.Kanpur Indian Institute of Technology PlansSite Plan | Kanvinde, Rai and Chowdhury3D Perscpective | Kanvinde, Rai and ChowdhuryPlans | Kanvinde, Rai and ChowdhuryKanpur Indian Institute of Technology Image GalleryAbout Achyut KanvindeAchyut Kanvinde (1916-2002) was a pioneering modernist architect who significantly influenced post-independence Indian architecture. A graduate of Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai and the Harvard Graduate School of Design under Walter Gropius, Kanvindes work exemplified the fusion of modernist principles with Indias cultural and climatic context. His designs emphasized functionality, simplicity, and a deep respect for human-centric spaces. As a co-founder of Kanvinde Rai and Chowdhury, he championed architecture as a tool for societal transformation, leaving a legacy of iconic projects like the IIT Kanpur campus, which continues to inspire architects worldwide.Notes & Additional CreditsDesign Team: Achyut Kanvinde, Shaukat Rai, and ChowdhuryEngineers: P.R. Phatak Engineering Consultants + Mahendra RajProgramme Architect: Russell J. Wood/Roger VoglerArchitectural Detailing: Ashok Srivastava, V. Pingle, Ajoy ChoudhuryLandscape: V. NerikarElectrical: Lirio LopezPublic Health: S.G. DeolalikarContractor: Amarnath Charanji Lal, D.D. Ahuja & Bros., Sahajram RahandmalClient: Government of India (Ministry of Education)

Images courtesy of Courtesy of Fredericks & Freiser, NY, shared with permissionThrough Gestural Oil Paintings, Maria Calandra Guides Her Stream of Consciousness Onto CanvasDecember 21, 2024ArtNatureJackie AndresWhile traditional plein air painters capture their surroundings while outdoors, artist Maria Calandra takes a different approach. By roaming the coastal headlands of Maine, exploring the waters of Florida, and venturing out to the rolling fields of Southern France, Calandra finds inspiration in nature for her dynamic oil landscapes.The artists Brooklyn studio is laden with energy after she returns from such invigorating excursions. I paint while reflecting on that moment during a hike when you start to feel Earths vibrations pulse through your feet and up your spine, letting memory, intuition, and those leftover vibrations take the reins, she describes.Calandras painting style mimics this intensity as she translates a stream of consciousness through fluid brushstrokes and oscillating organic forms. Instinct guides the artist, who describes the act as automatic painting.This January, the artist will be in a group show atHalf Galleryin New York followed by a solo show in June at the gallerys Los Angeles location. Find more on Calandras website and follow along on Instagram.Next article