Fridaygram: early chess computer, Angkor Wat mystery, Art Project expansion
Blog post from Google Cloud
Marking the 100th anniversary of El Ajedrecista, recognized as the first computer game, Google and the Technical University of Madrid are hosting a conference to honor its creator, Leonardo Torres-Quevedo, and his various inventions, including a functioning cable car over the Niagara Whirlpool. The conference, taking place on November 7th, will feature lectures and exhibits, highlighting Torres-Quevedo's innovative machine that plays a chess endgame from a superior position. Meanwhile, a new study reveals that the sandstone blocks of Angkor Wat were transported via canals from quarries 37 kilometers away, providing a more efficient explanation than previous theories. Additionally, the Google Art Project has expanded its collection to include new artworks from Italy, Turkey, Peru, the U.S., and China, offering a diverse array of cultural experiences.