From a flat universe full of dark energy to a lab full of stem cells, it's hard keeping up with the huge, kinetic world of science and technology. This unique volume offers a sweeping tour of the field for inquisitive audiences. The 2001 edition is a news digest, a concise encyclopedia, and an up-to-date statistical handbook all in one--a compelling introduction for the curious, a sharp summary for the expert, and a thorough reference for anyone interested in science and technology. This completely updated edition brings together the news, people, and statistics of the year's most important events and issues in the fields of: - Astronomy and Space- Chemistry- Computers and the Internet- Earth Sciences- Environment- Health and Medicine- Life Sciences- Mathematics- Meteorology and the Weather- Physics- Technology Special features and reference aids include photographs, illustrations, and figures; extensive tables and charts; a timeline and calendar of upcoming events; a directory of zoos, aquariums, science centers, museums, associations and organizations, and institutes and government organizations; a glossary; and an index. Photographs, tables and charts, a timeline, and a calendar illuminate the text and provide a quick view of what transpired around the world in 2001. The Almanac also covers: -The year's most important issues, legislation and regulation, best-selling science and nature books, and outstanding Web sites-The scientists behind the headlines, concise biographies, obituaries, and an extensive list of sci-tech award winners-Extensive tables for worldwide and country-by-country statistics on energy use and consumption, agricultural output and productivity, the environment, transportation and communication, and health and medicine Reference and User Services Quarterly hailed the previous edition for covering a plethora of information over a broad spectrum of the sciences and deemed it valuable in school, public, and academic libraries.