The Spectro-Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet Research instrument (SPHERE) was installed in Chile last month. This high-powered telescope is going to allow astronomers to see some pretty cool stuff, and among the first images was this one of the ringed star HR 4796A–a star that looks remarkably like the Eye of Sauron. Does anyone else get an eerie feeling just looking at it? (spotted by Middle-earth News contributor Myla)
We’ve spotted two quizzes about J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion recently. Test yourself with this quiz that asks, Can you name the women from Tolkien’s Silmarillion and Lord of the Rings? or discover something about yourself with What Silmarillion Character are You? Don’t forget to share your results in our comments section! (spotted by Middle-earth News director Arwen)
According to Box Office Mojo, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug has grossed a total of $258,366,855 at the domestic box office and drew $694,700,000 in foreign box office sales, making it Warner Bros. biggest grosser in foreign markets. That makes a grand total of $953,066,855–almost $1 Billion! (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Evie)
Actress Una Stubbs painted these watercolor portraits of Martin Freeman and Benedict Cumberbatch that will be on display at the Summer Exhibition 2014 of the Royal Academy of the Arts. The exhibition runs from 9 June – 17 August. We think Freeman looks decidedly hobbity, but those blue eyes of Cumberbatch don’t conjure up images of the Necromancer. What do you think of the portraits? (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Lily)
It’s Friday, and that means Middle-earth News contributor Myla is sharing gorgeous Tolkien art at her blog From the end of bag. This week, she features artist Natalia aka petitpotato. Natalia’s art has been a staple in past “Eagle’s View” posts, and we’re always happy to see her whimsical drawings (including those beards drawn with uncanny accuracy) get more exposure! (from Middle-earth News contributor Myla)
If you don’t already have tickets to see Hobbit actor Martin Freeman in Richard III in London’s West End this summer, you’ll be happy to know that Trafalgar Studios have released more seats, including front row seats! Tickets went on sale this morning at 10:00 a.m., but you still have a chance to snatch up a spot with a great view of the performance! (spotted by Middle-earth News reporter Lily)
