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My JPL job deals with NASA's Deep Space Network, our giant tracking stations that communicate with spacecraft at other planets.In 1994 I made my first trip to the stations outside the US. One set of these is just outside of Madrid, Spain. While I was there, I wanted to buy a musical instrument typical of Spain - but one that was not big or heavy since it had to return in my luggage. I chose to purchase two pair of nice quality castanets. I bought them in a little shop off of Plaza Major, the traditional main square in Madrid. One pair went to friend as a gift and I retained this one.