Marshall Islands

Flag Description Blue with two stripes radiating from the lower hoist-side corner - orange (top) and white; there is a white star with four large rays and 20 small rays on the hoist side above the two stripes. Currency Us dollar. Astronomy Today's date is May 17, 2008. There is currently a First Quarter Moon. Location Oceania, group of atolls and reefs in the north pacific ocean, about one-half of the way from hawaii to australia. Climate Wet season from may to november; hot and humid; islands border typhoon belt. Terrain Low coral limestone and sand islands. Elevation Extremes The lowest point is at Pacific Ocean 0 m. The highest point is at unnamed location on Likiep 10 m.

Nature & Science News

'Effective chemicals may be lost' - It is claimed tighter rules on pesticide use in Europe could lead to reduced yields and increases in food costs.

Wildlife populations 'plummeting' - Between a quarter and a third of the world's wildlife has been lost since 1970, says the Living Planet Index.

Small biomass option concern - Small-scale biomass power plants can have bigger enviro-impacts than other renewables, a study says.

Asbestos cancer chemo doubts - Chemotherapy does not help people with asbestos-related cancer, according to UK researchers.

Evolution rolls on for Mars rover - The wheels continue to turn on Europe's billion-euro project to put a robotic rover on the Red Planet's surface.

Mars probe set for risky descent - Scientists prepare for "seven minutes of terror" as the Phoenix spacecraft attempts to land on the surface.

Marshall Islands

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