Astronomy & Space Programs

For much of the 20th century, the doors of opportunity stayed closed to women in astronomy, but after decades of difficult struggles they are closer to equality than ever before. Virginia Trimble, co-editor of the new anthology The Sky Is for Everyone, is joined by two of the book’s contributors to discuss the stories of the tough and determined women who shaped a transformative era in astronomy.

Though we know a great deal about the universe, its history, and its composition, there’s still more to learn. Physicist Michael Dine explores the great mysteries that drive much current research in theoretical and experimental physics and astrophysics.

Everyone makes mistakes. But were the signature theories of great scientists like Charles Darwin, Lord Kelvin, Linus Pauling, Fred Hoyle, and Albert Einstein free of blunders? Absolutely not. Distinguished astrophysicist Mario Livio demonstrates that mistakes are an essential part of scientific progress.

Meteors, or shooting stars, are among the night sky’s most captivating phenomena. Kelly Beatty, senior editor at Sky & Telescope magazine, provides an introductory overview of meteors and meteorites along with tips on where, when, and how to watch for annual meteor showers such as the Perseids and Leonids.