This is the globe that autonomously and continuously rotates on its own without human contact, cords, or batteries. Developed in the U.S. by a team of physicists and artists, the globe operates in apparent violation of the laws of thermodynamics, which state that perpetual motion is impossible. Suspended from an acrylic frame, the 4 1/2"-diameter globe encloses a photoreceptor that gathers room light to power an internal drive that spins the globe by means of a force from the earth’s magnetic field. The globe consumes a mere .1 microwatts (1/10th of 1 millionth of a watt) of power, and is suspended in a clear liquid inside a clear acrylic shell: the liquid reduces friction against the globe, allowing it to rotate continuously and silently at a steady, gentle pace. The internal mechanism is imperceptible beneath the globe’s colorful surface that shows a political map with topographical shading, major cities and countries, and bodies of water. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. 9" H (with stand) x 4 1/2" Diam. (4 1/2 lbs.)