Jun
26
2012

Mysterious Structures Found in the Syrian Desert

Rock Formations

According to Discovery News, scientists are investigating mysterious stone structures in the Syrian Desert. The formations date back over 6,000 years and were first discovered in 2009. Tombs? Markings? Ceremonial structures? Click through to read more about “Syria’s Stonehenge.”

Jun
7
2012

Creepy Alert: ‘Vampire’ Skeletons Found in Bulgaria

No, they aren’t real vampires, but fascinating/creepy nonetheless.  The skeletons were uncovered in Sozopol, a Bulgarian town near the Black Sea, and date back to the Middle Ages. The specimens were found “with iron rods pierced through their chests–evidence of an exorcism against a vampire.” Leave it to the National History Museum to dig up (no pun intended) the craziest stuff.

Skeleton

Click Here for More Info: ‘Vampire’ Skeletons Found in Bulgaria : Discovery News

Jun
6
2012

Venus Transit 2012

First last month’s eclipse, now the transit of Venus. The sky is full of wonders!

The “transit of Venus” describes the crossing of the planet Venus across the sun. This celestial event only occurs every 114 years. Using special glasses (never look directly into the sun!), viewers watched as the two entities slowly slid past one another. Truly an amazing sight.

Transit of Venus

Photo by NatGeo

May
30
2012

Google Doodle Celebrates Russian Jeweler

Faberge Doodle

Today’s Google Doodle celebrates the 166th anniversary of the birth of Peter Carl Fabergé. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Fabergé was a famous jeweler most known for his creation of jewel-encrusted Fabergé eggs. Using a team of craftsmen, Fabergé designed and produced thousands of these exquisite works of art.

Click over to the LATimes to read more about Fabergé and his legacy of eggs in Russia, and subscribe to Little Passports for a unique Fabergé-inspired craft, which is featured as part of our Russia package.

 

May
24
2012

Mars Rover Snaps Stunning Self-Portrait

Mars Rover Snaps Stunning Self-Portrait: Big Pic : Discovery News.

By stitching together a series of panoramic photographs taken by the Mars rover, which is named “Opportunity,” NASA created this amazing glimpse into the Red Planet.

The image was released yesterday and, frankly, we can’t stop looking at it. It’s beautiful…maybe Sam and Sofia should take a trip to Mars. That’s what magic scooters are for, right?

Apr
23
2012

Earth Day Roundup

Here at Little Passports we know that global adventure wouldn’t be possible without a globe to explore. It’s up to each of us to learn about and love our planet. It should be no surprise, then, that Earth Day is one of our favorite holidays. Yesterday, people from all over the globe gathered in their communities to celebrate. Scroll down for a few quick highlights.

Did you and your family celebrate? Share in the comments!

(more…)

Mar
14
2012

Google Honors Origami Grandmaster

Today’s Google doodle celebrates Akira Yoshizawa, the grandmaster of origami. Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, was considered a simple craft before Yoshizawa wowed the world with his talents. Upon his passing in 2005, The New York Times called him a “pioneer” of the art form. He would have been 101 today. Happy Birthday, Mr. Yoshizawa! Thank you for spreading the wonderful tradition of origami.

Yoshizawa Google Doodle