Popular Mechanics US - March - April 2024

In this issue

Popular Mechanics Tool Awards 2024
Best-in-class tools and accessories we tested this past year.
By Popular Mechanics Editors

How Three Amateurs Cracked an Infamous Cipher
For more than 50 years, the Zodiac Killer’s ‘340’ cipher had stumped experts.
By Kathryn Miles

WHAT THE WORLD'S MOST POWERFUL X-RAY LASER WILL DO FOR SCIENCE

DEEP UNDER MENLO PARK, California, there is a threemile-long machine operating in a tunnel that scientists are keeping colder than even some of the deepest reaches of space.

3 mins

Why It's So Hard to Mine the World's Largest Lithium Deposit

A Pass, or Peehee Mu'huh to the local Paiute people has been mined since the 1970s, so the new analysis merely confirms what locals have long known about the area.

2 mins

The Army's Drone-Killing Laser Weapon

THE U.S. ARMY FIELDED ITS FIRST LASERweapon-equipped unit in October. Based at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the unit took possession of four laser-equipped Stryker infantry combat vehicles, each mounting a 50-kilowatt-class laser-weapon system. The combination of Stryker and laser can down both artillery, such as mortars and rockets, and drones in-flight.

3 mins

How the World's Largest Spherical Structure Was Built

THE SHINY, NEW LAS VEGAS SPHERE IS more than just a 17,600-seat amphitheaterstyle venue hosting a U2 residency. Since its opening in September 2023, it's become the world's largest spherical structure, at 516 feet wide and 366 feet tall.

2 mins

The Right Way to Use a Fire Extinguisher

A FIRE EXTINGUISHER IS MORE THAN A of one 5-gallon bucket becomes the size of 64 burning buckets. Just 180 seconds after it begins, a fire can be transformed from a nuisance to a room-size, life-threatening inferno.

2 mins

How This Particle Could Break Our Understanding of Reality

EINSTEIN'S SPECIAL THEORY OF relativity teaches us that nothing can accelerate past the speed of light. But what if, when you were born, you were already moving faster than light? What would that look like?

3 mins

POPULAR MECHANICS TOP AWARDS 2024

For more than 120 years, Popular Mechanics has been a heavy-duty brand. We see no reason to change that now.

6 mins

How Three Amateurs Solved the Zodiac Killer's '340' Cipher

The mysterious code stumped the FBI and NSA for 53 years. What does the key, and the resulting solution, tell us about the infamous murderer?

10+ mins

The Cascading Failures Behind One of the Worst Building Collapses in U.S. History

Engineers are still investigating the collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside Florida, but early findings shed light on a risk facing poorly constructed residential and office buildings,

8 mins

Cutting the Cord

THE HANDHELD CIRCULAR SAW IS PERHAPS THE MOST VERSAtile power tool for cutting wood.

2 mins

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Popular Mechanics US Magazine Description:

Popular Mechanics US is a widely recognized magazine that caters to enthusiasts of science, technology, and all things related to mechanics. Here's an overview of the magazine's content and its focus on providing valuable insights and information to its readers:

Popular Mechanics US offers a diverse range of content, covering topics such as engineering, DIY projects, automotive advancements, home improvement, technology trends, outdoor adventures, and more. With a rich history dating back to 1902, the magazine has remained a trusted source for practical advice, expert guidance, and in-depth features.
1. Science and Technology: Popular Mechanics US keeps readers informed about the latest scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and innovative ideas shaping the world. It covers topics like space exploration, robotics, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and emerging technologies, providing insights into how these developments impact our daily lives.

2. DIY Projects and How-Tos: The magazine features step-by-step guides and tutorials for DIY enthusiasts and individuals interested in hands-on projects. From home improvement and woodworking to electronics and automotive repairs, Popular Mechanics US offers practical tips, tool recommendations, and detailed instructions to help readers tackle various projects.
3. Automotive: Popular Mechanics US has a dedicated focus on automobiles, providing coverage on the latest automotive technologies, industry news, and reviews. Whether you're interested in new car models, maintenance tips, or insights into electric and autonomous vehicles, the magazine offers a wealth of information for automotive enthusiasts and consumers.
4. Home and Workshop: Readers looking to enhance their homes or workshops can find inspiration and guidance through Popular Mechanics US. The magazine offers articles on home improvement, DIY renovations, tool recommendations, and tips for maintaining and upgrading living spaces and work areas.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Gear: From camping and hiking to fishing and off-roading, Popular Mechanics US caters to outdoor enthusiasts. It features articles on adventure travel, gear reviews, survival tips, and insights into outdoor recreational activities, helping readers make informed choices for their outdoor pursuits.

6. In-Depth Features and Interviews: Popular Mechanics US delivers in-depth features, interviews, and profiles of experts, innovators, and thought leaders in various fields. These articles provide readers with a deeper understanding of groundbreaking technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and the people behind them.
Popular Mechanics US continues to engage and educate readers by exploring the intersection of science, technology, and mechanics. Through its informative articles, practical tips, and inspiring stories, the magazine empowers readers to stay informed, pursue their interests, and embrace the world of innovation and engineering.