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But if you think it's cold and uncomfortable here, spare a thought for all those earthly bacteria and other organisms that have hitched a ride into space on the various planetary probes we've dispatched in recent decades.

According to New Scientist, some of these bacteria could actually survive and even multiply on Mars, given a bit of luck.

So, if there wasn't life on Mars before we checked, there's a small chance that there is now.

Now have your say Got something to say about today's column, or want to see what others think?  Visit The Forums While you're here, why not visit the Aardvark Hall of Shame and perhaps make your own nomination. 7

And, in other news, it would appear that Maori Television Service has had an attack of commonsense and may well be acquiring the domain maoritelevision.co.nz in an amiable fashion by simply covering the costs involved. It's not a done-deal yet but I'll keep you informed.

And remember that TXT2taste campaign run by TXT2media?

Well TXT2media emailed me to advise that they've taken onboard many of the comments and recommendations that appeared in this column and will be changing the way they do some things.

Unfortunately however, they claim that the number of rogue sign-ups, where someone submits another person's email address, is only a very small percentage so they won't be changing to a double-opt-in system.

My little packet of tasty noodles turned up this week too -- just a shame that it was not a flavour I like. Maybe next time they ought to let people choose the flavour they'll be receiving -- after all, sending someone something they're not likely to try would appear to be a total waste of time and money.

While on the subject of false email addresses, my yahoomail address (DontSpam@) gets a *lot* of junk as a result of people being "smart" by using that address when signing up to things and trying to dodge the spam that might follow.

Naturally this is a bit of a pain -- so I've decided to become rather mercenary in the way I deal with this.

A growing number of people will be scratching their heads now, wondering why they can no longer log into their favourite discussion forums because, tired of getting endless notifications that I'd received new private messages from PhpBBS systems, I've gone through and changed the password associated with this yahoomail address. That'll teach em eh? :-)

Last week I mentioned that there might be a good story brewing in respect to domain names in New Zealand. I'll be publishing that early next week and it's a good read. I'm sure opinions will be divided on this one.

Wrap up and stay warm for the weekend.

Lighten Up
Time for a little more of the web-dross that readers and I have come across while wending our way around the web.

Need a chastity belt for the wife or girlfriend while you're away or at work? Well here's a 21st century equivalent to that priceless device.

If you're stuck inside during a winter storm, why not rush to your computer and play clever little game.

Have you ever wondered what all those pictures on the airline safety card you're encouraged to read when flying actually mean? Here's the answer.

Aardvark Forums
The forums are back up at: www.aardvarkforums.co.nz/forums, have your say on today's column

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