An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a very short, violent burst of electromagnetic energy that induces voltages in wires, antennas and circuits many times higher than the ones electronics are built to run on. The strongest one comes from a nuclear explosion high above the Earth, and a powerful solar storm has similar, though slower, effects… Read More »

It has been known since the dawn of time that there are four basic geographical directions: east, west, north and south. These are the so-called cardinal directions. In this article you will learn a little more about the points of the compass and how to work out directions when you only have limited resources, for… Read More »

Introduction, or “is it safe in the woods at night?” If you are planning to spend your first night in the woods, you may well be a tiny bit scared and not quite sure what to expect. A whole heap of films has been made on the subject, mostly horror films. Hardly any of them… Read More »

How to make a torch? The torch is one of the oldest portable light sources used by humans. These days we have a great many ways of lighting up the dark. All sorts of battery torches, chemical light sources (chemiluminescent ones, the so-called light sticks) and even the torch built into a mobile phone. But… Read More »

If you are planning a camping trip, alone or with company, you are probably wondering how to sort out shelter and a place to sleep. For a solo hiker the obvious answer seems to be a lightweight one-person tent. It is not always the best option, though. You have at least 2 more options to… Read More »