Star Wars-Inspired Observatory in Cyprus

Set to track celestial phenomena from India to the Mediterranean, a new observatory will be built in Cyprus. Most excitingly, the structure (which was designed by Kyriakos Tsolakis Architects) draws inspiration from the Star Wars films. The Troodos Observatory—as it’s known—will be the first purpose-built facility of this type in the country, and will boast a large dome along with a slim wedge at the …

Daan Roosegaarde’s Smog Vacuum Cleaner and Other Inventions

Explaining that creativity is the true investment capital of the future, inventor Daan Roosegaarde’s optimism for the future hinges upon the power of human imagination. Roosegaarde himself, under the name Studio Roosegaarde, has invented wondrous things—from a Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”-inspired green energy bike path in the Netherlands to a working smog vacuum cleaner in Beijing. Roosegaarde’s futurism applies to tangible needs and stems …

Miranda July’s Interfaith Charity Shop

There are some 10,000 charity shops in the United Kingdom, and now—thanks to artist and filmmaker Miranda July and Artangel—there is the first-ever interfaith charity store. The pop-up (which is open from 31 August to 22 October 2017 at Selfridges) is being run and staffed by Islamic Relief, Jewish charity Norwood, London Buddhist Centre and Spitalfields Crypt Trust who will divide the proceeds equally. From …