Solar System, Sky Watching
Scientists think planets, including the Earth, form inside giant disks of gas and dust that circle young stars. Observing these disks, called protoplanetary disks, teaches us how long it takes planets to form. Until recently astronomers thought that protoplanetary disks all faded away after just a... Read More
Solar System, Planets of Our Solar System, Sky Watching
Neptune will be at opposition in September, providing sky watchers and astronomers the opportunity to observe this planet that is invisible to the naked eye, but that scientists would love to see more clearly.
ISS, Sky Watching, Meteor Showers
The Geminids meteor shower will be viewed from above by the Meteor camera on the International Space Station, as well as from below by sky watchers on Earth.
Solar System, Sky Watching
People around the world have the opportunity to participate in the study of comet 46P/Wirtanen as it has a close approach with Earth in December of 2018
Sky Watching, Meteor Showers
The Perseid Meteor Shower peaks on the night of August 12 into the morning of August 13. With a clear sky, observers will be able to see up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak.
Sky Watching, Meteor Showers
The fireworks show you watched in July most likely lasted 20 minutes. But in August, you can watch some celestial fireworks that will last hours and hours. This is the Perseid Meteor Shower. With a clear sky, observers will be able to see up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak.
The July 27th night sky offers treats for sky watchers -- and listeners -- around the globe.
Go outside on a clear night, look up, and consider the following. Standing on Earth’s surface, we are part of the universe’s perpetual symphony of heavenly bodies rotating on their axes and revolving around one another in an intricate rhythm. As far as we know, we’re the only ones “listening” and... Read More
Solar System, Sky Watching
What's up in the night sky this month? Enjoy a ringside seat for Saturn, plus a night long parade featuring Venus, Jupiter, Mars and Vesta!
What's Up for May? The moon and Saturn meet Mars in the morning as NASA's Insight spacecraft launches to the red planet on May 5.
Solar System, Planets of Our Solar System, Sky Watching
The Moon, Mars and Saturn form a pretty triangle in early April, The Lyrid Meteors are visible in late April, peaking high overhead on the 22nd.
Planets of Our Solar System, Sky Watching
On the evening of March 18, step outside for a view of the crescent Moon, Venus, and Mercury together above the twilight horizon.
Planets of Our Solar System, Sky Watching
For a beautiful sky show, go for a sunset walk on March 18th. You’ll need an unobstructed view of the western horizon for the evening’s treat so climb a hill, see if you can catch a glimpse from the top of a parking garage or perch on a balcony.
Solar System, Sky Watching
The annual Geminid meteor shower has arrived. It's a good time to bundle up, go outside and let the universe blow your mind!