A Panoply of Constellations
The last of the spring stars are now inhabiting the night sky. It seems odd that in the beginning of September we can still see Spring stars, but it has to do with how the sky is laid out. If you start early enough in the evening you can find the last stars of one season and the beginning of another season. Keep an eye out for Arcturus, easily identifiable by its orange color, often mistaken for Mars. Also, the Obama administration has proposed visiting an asteroid as a stepping stone to visiting Mars. How long do you think it would take to get to Mars and back? All this and more on this week’s Sky Talk.[audio: st20100906.mp3]
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
Brought to you by Skytalk
Skytalk
Skytalk is hosted by WHYY's Dave Heller. Each week he discusses the latest news in astronomy with Dr. Derrick H. Pitts of the Franklin Institute.
Subscribe for free
PECO to purchase energy from what will be the largest utility-based solar procurement in Pa.
The project will be just 1% of PECO’s total energy mix, enough to provide electricity to 3,000 homes. But climate activists see it as a win and good first step.
2 days ago
Listen 1:36
The years-long quest to make an ‘artificial leaf’ as a promising fuel alternative
The artificial leaf was a vision for moving beyond fossil fuels. Researchers have since run into obstacles, but continue to push the field forward.
3 days ago
Listen 10:00
Nature's grip: Scientist examines gecko feet to develop new medical adhesives
A Villanova University biologist is studying how geckos stick to surfaces in an effort to replicate this mechanism for new medical adhesives
3 days ago
Listen 8:37