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Synopsis of an article on the future of electronic networks:
"Cyberspace offers chance to do 'virtually' real science"
Science, 264, p. 900 (13 May 94)
 
Using software based on the MUDs (Multi-user dungeons), biologists, astronomers,
and ecologists are creating virtual scientific meeting places called MOOs
(Multi-Uuser dimension, Object Oriented).
 
"Unlike e-mail and bulletin boards, MOO conversations take place in real time.
Unlike Internet Relay Chat, MOOs are focused on particular subject areas and let
users show and share data and tools as they talk. And unlike videoconferencing,
all a scientist needs to use a MOO is a computer and a bare-bones Internet
connection... The unique attraction of a MOO is that is is a shared,
customizable encorinment that is persistent. Build a lab and put in data, notes,
and tools and they will remain there after you sign off. With your permission,
collaborators can visit your lab and work with the data and tools while you are
gone... PARC researchers are putting the finishing touches on the next
generation of MOO, called Jupiter, which will offer full-color graphics,
windows, audio, and video."
 
Coming soon to a MOOseum near (in galactic terms) us?
 
..Jim Swanson / Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies / Banff, AB T0L 0C0..
.........................can-wmcr-ama@immedia.ca..........................