Popular Mechanics South Africa - September/October 2021

In this issue

Launched locally in 2002, Popular Mechanics is the acknowledged voice of science and technology in South Africa. Underpinning its rich sci-tech content is an ever-changing mix of articles covering a broad range of interests, from automotive news and outdoor adventures to DIY projects and exploration of the universe.

The World's First Fusion Reactor Is (Almost) Ready To Turn On

Nuclear fusion has been ‘right around the corner’ for decades. But now, that long-promised future is quickly approaching.

3 mins

Could A Cosmic Lasso Divert Extinction-Level Asteroids?

IN 2013, A METEOR EXPLODED 22.5 KM (14 MILES) above Chelyabinsk, Russia, knocking out windows across 500 km2 and injuring more than 1 600 people. It was a wake-up call for astronomers to help defend Earth from more potentially hazardous asteroids.

4 mins

Headphones That Turn Down The Volume On Excess Noise

Amar bose was frustrated. It was 1978, and he’d planned to kill some of the time on his 6000 km flight from Zurich to Boston by listening to music through some new, foam-covered (read: flimsy) headphones that Swissair supplied to the passengers. His enjoyment was foiled by the drone of the engines, which overpowered the lightweight headset.

4 mins

Gear & Gadgets

Must-have hardware for humans on the go

10+ mins

These Tiny Reactors Can Save Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy's reputation is on the edge of meltdown

8 mins

‘Mad Mike' Hughes Rejected Science And Chased Fame. It Killed Him.

The Mojave Desert had cast its spell over ‘Mad Mike’ Hughes the night he thought to fly to the edge of space.

10+ mins

How Hollywood Set Designers Hid America's Wwii Aircraft Factories

As the sun rose over the horizon, a Japanese aviator worked to get his bearings above enemy territory. Anti-aircraft shells rocked his floatplane bomber as he looked for his target, a giant aircraft factory. The imposing building and expansive runways should be unmistakable, but there were only houses below.

8 mins

The Right (Fes)tool For The Job

A Festool plunge-cut saw is a versatile addition to your workshop. Add ‘cordless’ to the equation, as well as Festool’s rail system, and you have a highly capable all-rounder that’s suited to a range of cutting applications.

5 mins

PM GARAGE

Opinions on cars we’ve driven

5 mins

Hurry Up, We're Dreaming

BMW believes its new F 900 XR is more than a super commuter. Challenge accepted – we took the high road and put it to the touring test.

7 mins

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Popular Mechanics South Africa Magazine Description:

The acknowledged voice of science and technology in South Africa

The South African edition of Popular Mechanics was launched in 2002 and has fast become the acknowledged voice of science and technology in South Africa. Underpinning its rich sci-tech content is an ever-changing mix of articles covering everything from automotive news and outdoor adventures to DIY projects. In essence, it explains how our world works.