GPS Shield n. An early-warning system that uses an array of GPS units to detect subtle seismic movements preceding catastrophic tsunami waves. An 18-unit network, calibrated to provide a 10-minute alert, is in development for Indonesia.
QUID n. Quasi Universal Intergalactic Denomination, the first currency designed for extraterrestrial commerce. Fabricated from a polymer that won't puncture space suits, the QUID trades through Travelex for just under $13 (yes, it's real).
Second Earth n. The theoretical virtual world of the future, merging Google Earth geography with Second Life habitability. While appealing to technologists, such a system might deplete the actual planet: It would require an estimated 150 nuclear power plants to run the servers.
Prehab n. Preventative rehab, intended to teach child stars how to become the next Shirley Temple rather than another Lindsay Lohan. The Screen Actor's Guild hosts conferences for young performers, and Nickelodeon subjects all underage talent to a crash course in PG-13 public conduct.
— Jonathon Keats (jargon@wired.com)
Start Previous: Buy Craig Venter's Ultra-Luxurious Lab Yacht Today! Next: Clive Thompson on How the Next Victim of Climate Change Will Be Our Minds
