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Ten Random Facts

In 1845, the third Earl of Ross, a wealthy amateur astronomer, built the world's largest telescope on his Ireland estate. The earl's reflecting telescope had a 72-inch metal mirror, and was suspended between two ivy-covered stone walls.
Space

Sir Francis Drake's name for California in 1579 was New Albion.
People

The great horned owl can turn its head 270 degrees.
Animals

A literal translation of the word wonton is "swallowing a cloud." Wontons floating in soup often resemble tiny clouds.
Food and Drink

William Henry Harrison served the shortest term of any U.S. president. He served only 32 days, from March 4 to April 4, 1841. He fell ill with pneumonia shortly after his inauguration and never recovered.
People » US Presidents

The photo most often requested from the U.S. National Archives is that of the meeting between Elvis Presley and President Nixon in 1970. Presley had requested that Nixon make him an honorary drug enforcement agent and Nixon accommodated him.
Surveys

The swine flu vaccine in 1976 caused more death and illness than the disease it was intended to prevent.
People

Jupiter is much smaller than the Sun. If the Sun was the size of a basketball, 1 foot across, Jupiter would be the size of a table tennis ball 1 inch across.
Space

Centuries ago, it was believed that those who wore diamonds were protected from harm. Diamonds were considered lucky charms for the wearer, counteracting the effects of unfortunate astrological events and endowing him or her with charm and the ability to attract others. Plato wrote about diamonds as living beings, embodying celestial spirits.
History

A snake's stomach is located in the front one-fifth portion of its body.
Animals

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