The Portal Denial System is not like those other laser-guard systems you've seen in the movies. The movie systems, which are typically guarding something very valuable, make beautiful laser light shows like you might have seen in a 1980's nightclub.
Ionatron's Portal Denial System, on the other hand, is what an intelligent (and angry) insect would make if insects could design a human-zapper.
The device beams an ultraviolet laser across the doorway; this causes a localized atmospheric bloom - the air ionizes into a plasma. Since this laser-induced plasma channel (LIPC) is electrically conductive, a powerful electric current can be sent across the doorway via the channel.
(Portal Denial System Laser-Induced Plasma Channel Electrolaser)
If you're wondering how much juice can be sent across the doorway, keep in mind that electrolasers can also be used to study lightning, since both use plasma channels as a conduit for electricity.
Background Draw-a-Secret (BDAS) Makes Graphical Passwords
Interesting security technique that takes advantage of the greater ease with which we all recall pictures, as opposed to the kind of alphanumeric strings IT techs want us to use for passwords.
ID-U Biometrics Eye Tracking Signature
Interesting new method of secure identification gathers a unique response to stimulus each time; old data cannot be copied and presented to the system.
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Prairie Madness - And Space Sickness
'Space-sickness is one of the most unpleasant sensations that a human being can experience. Not all are subject to it...'
'Old People Began to Cross The Continent In Their Own Cars'
'It was a relief to enter one of the comfortable autos, whisper a direction down the tube, and just know that you would be taken to your destination in the quickest, safest, and cheapest manner.'
Starfall Manufacturing Drugs In Space
'The vast spinning sphere of Factory in the Sky loomed above and ahead of us, gleaming white against the unfathomable jet depths of surrounding space.'
The Solar Oberth Slingshot
'And if it doesn’t work,' inquired Lazarus, 'what does that make us? Sunspots?'
'If Anyone Is Watching Earth...'
'Our study of your race has convinced us that you are not fitted to leave your planet in the present state of your civilization.'