NASA's LLCD tests confirm laser communication capabilities in space

NASA's LLCD tests confirm laser communication capabilities in space
Gizmag, 26 December 2013
http://www.gizmag.com/llcd-results-ladee-space-laser-communications/30230/

This week, NASA released the results of its Lunar Laser Communication Demonstration’s (LLCD) 30-day test carried out by its Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) that is currently in orbit around the Moon. According to the space agency, the LLCD mission proved that laser communications are practical at a distance of a quarter of a million miles and that such a system could perform as well, if not better, than any NASA radio system.

Boxy CubeSats get a propulsion boost in new space race

Boxy CubeSats get a propulsion boost in new space race
New Scientist, 2 December 2013
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn24679-boxy-cubesats-get-a-propulsion-boost-in-new-space-race.html

Instead, Lozano and his colleagues will propel their craft with an unusual substance called an ionic liquid, made solely of positively or negatively charged ions. In the engine, a reservoir of ionic liquid soaks into a porous, metal chip and forms tiny pools in the pores of spikes on its surface. When a small electric field is applied, these pools morph into cones, which amplify the electric field so that it is strong enough to pull away ions in a steady beam (see below).

How One Might Metal Spin a Nozzle
Youtube, 23 December 2013
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekicY_oNE7I

This video shows a skilled metal spinner making a fan inlet cone. The skills appear similar to me to be those used in metal spinning a rocket nozzle and throat. In any case, it demonstrates good skill and careful construction of a nozzle-like structure.