SETI

For hundreds of years, people have wondered if there is life on other planets. Are humans on Earth alone in the universe, or could there be others out in space?   Until recently, humans could only speculate about the existence of life on other planets or in other galaxies. Today, however, technological advances are allowing us to actively search for signs of extra-terrestrial life.   The search... Read more >

Amateur Astronomy

Amateur astronomers are those who don’t have any formal astronomy training, who practice astronomy as a hobby and who don’t rely on their astronomy practices for income. Observing, photographing and generally enjoying the stars, planets and other heavenly bodies are all part of practicing amateur astronomy as a hobby. Whether you want to make use of a new telescope or you are simply fascinated with the night... Read more >

Astronomy Associations

Amateur astronomy associations and publications exist all over the world and serve as ways for amateur astronomers to share their interests and findings with others. Local, state and even national organizations for amateur astronomy have popped up over the years.   These organizations have gatherings, conventions, Web sites and more that bring together amateur astronomers from different areas. Many amateur... Read more >

Famous Astronomers

Throughout the centuries, a number of famous astronomers have made great contributions to the science of astronomy. Without the efforts of such great astronomers as Ptolemy, Galileo and Isaac Newton, we would not know nearly as much about the planets and stars as we do today.     Today, people often take for granted the amount of information scientists have gathered about our planet, the solar... Read more >

SETI@home

SETI@home, sometimes referred to as SETI at Home or Project SETI, is a project that makes an ingenious use of individual computers and the Internet to analyze data from outer space. Conceived at UC Berkeley, SETI@home integrates millions of personal computers into a cohesive project that otherwise would not exist.   SETI, or the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, continues to draw interest from... Read more >

Astronomy as a Hobby

At any age or skill level, astronomy can be a fascinating hobby that gives you a greater understanding of the world and universe in which we live. However, before you can get started as an amateur astronomer, you will need to invest in the right equipment and have an understanding of how to use it. So, before you race out and spend a lot of money on equipment, make sure that you understand what astronomy as a... Read more >

Isaac Newton

A year after the death of Galileo, an infant came into the world who was christened Isaac Newton. Even the great fame of Galileo himself must be relegated to a second place in comparison with that of the philosopher who first expounded the true theory of the universe.   Isaac Newton Biography: The Early Years Isaac Newton was born on Dec. 25, 1642, in England. His father, Mr. Isaac Newton, had died a few... Read more >

Handheld Viewing Devices

You don't need a full-sized Celestron telescope to practice amateur astronomy and astrophotography. A number of manufacturers are now making various viewing devices that are portable and easy to use, although they may lack the power of a space telescope. Binoculars Binoculars are perhaps one of the most common handheld viewing devices. Outside of astronomy groups, few people associate binoculars with... Read more >