Shows that the nonlinear vector product developed by the author in a previous paper to treat successive space rotations can be employed to treat the space time rotations of special relativity in which the angle of rotation is imaginary. (HM)

Presents the most important features of observational astronomy, including the motions of the sun and the moon and the methods by which eclipses can be predicted. (MLH)

Shows that the expansion of the universe and its hierarchical structure may solve the dark night sky paradox. Points out that Harrison's solution, and the expansion of the universe, are equally important in explaining the reduction of radiation density to the level we observe by night. (Author/GA)

Presents a method for determining the approximate radius vector of a planet or asteroid from two closely separated observation positions, using mathematics suitable for lower division college students. (MLH)

Presents a procedure for finding the elements of the orbit of an astronomical object from three or more observations. From a set of assumed elements an ephemeris is calculated and compared to the observations. (MLH)

Explores major expectations of Mach's principle concerning motions due to matter in the rest of the universe. (MLH)

This article shows that the centrifugal force in a rotating reference frame possesses the property that the brachistochrone and tautochrone are identical. In this system the force is repulsive and proportional to the distance from the force center. (Author/BB)

Uses elementary methods to introduce a model which accurately describes fundamental properties of a star in radiative equilibrium. (SL)

Discusses the works by six contemporary American novelists that illustrate the current state of "physics fiction." The discussed examples of physics fiction ranged from the fluent and frequent inclusion of the casual, to the elaborate systems of physics metaphors. (GA)

Presents a calculation of the precession of the perihelion of Mercury due to the perturbations from the outer planets. The time-average effect of each planet is calculated by replacing that planet with a ring of linear mass density equal to the mass of the planet divided by the circumference of its orbit. (Author/GA)

Examines the physical bases for the appearance of the starfield from a moving reference frame. Concludes with a sequence of computer-generated figures to show the appearance of Earth's starfield at various velocities and that a "starbow" does not exist. (Author/GA)

Investigates the behavior of a simple pendulum attached to a fixed point inside a satellite moving in a circular orbit about the earth. It is found that the number of equilibrium positions depends on the length of the pendulum and the location of the point of attachment. (HM)

Describes a procedure that allows undergraduate students to determine the approximate age of the universe using their own data. The experiment requires a relatively small telescope with a modest spectrograph. Includes sample data and calculations. (Contains 11 references.) (Author/WRM)

Presents two calculations of the probability of detection of an interstellar comet, under the hypothesis that such comets would escape from comet clouds similar to that believed to surround the sun. Proposes three problems, each of which would be a reasonable term project for a motivated undergraduate. (Author/MLH)

Urges the restructuring of astronomy-astrophysics courses to accommodate nonastronomy majors. Outlines an alternative approach to teach astronomy. (GA)