Today’s physics news: Diamond planet found, Ariel 1 commemorative stamps

Planet may be rich in diamonds but it is 40 light years away

Researchers have found a rocky planet twice the radius of the Earth with a near-limitless supply of diamond. The planet, 55 Cancri e, lies 40 light years away from Earth, say the researchers from Yale University. Their paper has been published in Astrophysical Letters.

The Times (Subscriber only)

Ariel 1 launch anniversary celebrated with commemorative stamps

The 50th anniversary of the launch of Ariel 1, Britain’s first satellite, has been celebrated by Royal Mail with the issue of a new set of commemorative stamps.The series features six images including spectacular views of the Sun and Mars, all captured by missions of the European Space Agency.

The Telegraph

Scientists to get extra protection from libel

Scientists and academics are to be given extra protection from bullying corporations that use Britain’s libel laws to suppress legitimate criticism and debate, the Government has indicated. Speaking in the House of Lords Lord McNally, the Government minister in charge of the legislation, said he understood concerns that its public interest defence was “too restrictive”.

The Independent