"Rings" (by astronomer James Elliot and science writer Richard Kerr) is a nontechnical book about the discovery and exploration of ring systems from the time of Galileo to the era of the Voyager spacecraft. One of this book's chapters is presented. (JN)

Presents a condensed version of textbook account of cosmological theory and principles. Topics discussed include quasars, general and special relativity, relativistic cosmology, and the curvature of spacetime. Some philosophical assumptions necessary to the theory are also discussed. (JM)

Describes the Alpha Centauri star system, which is the closest star system to the sun. Discusses the difficulties associated with measurements involving Alpha Centauri, along with some of the recent advances in stellar seismology. Raises questions about the possibilities of planets around Alpha Centauri. (TW)

Presents a chapter from an introductory college-level astronomy textbook in which full-color photographs and numerous diagrams highlight an extensive description of the planet Jupiter. Topics include Jupiter's geology, rotation, magnetic field, atmosphere (including clouds and winds), and the Great Red Spot. (DH)

The discovery of radio waves, infrared, and x-rays and their importance in describing the universe and its origins is discussed. Topics include radio waves from space, the radio pioneers of World War II, radio telescopes, infrared radiation, satellites, space missions, and x-ray telescopes. (KR)

Presents information on the properties and largest spirals of the Local Group galaxies. Explains the three categories of galaxies, identifies the brightest members of the Local Group, and discusses recent discoveries within the group. (ML)

Describes the Cygnus Loop, one of brightest and most easily studied of the older "remnant nebulae" of supernova outbursts. Discusses some of the historical events surrounding the discovery and measurement of the Cygnus Loop and makes some projections on its future. (TW)

On the occasion of the publication of the fifth edition of his book "The Milky Way," the author presents information on this galaxy and his life-long interest and research in this area. (SK)

This article reviews the historical and current observational status of searches for other planetary systems, discusses the nature of the observational problem, and indicates the prospects for success in the future. (DS)

Describes the gravitational lens effect and the chance of observing it. The use of stars, galaxies, or quasars is recommended for alignment with an intervening lens mass. (Author/SA)

Describes Neptune through Voyager 2 including the discovery, location, atmosphere, ring arcs, radiation, two satellites, and Voyager's goals. Provides several diagrams and pictures. (YP)

Presents excerpts from "The Comet Book," a nontechnical primer on comets. Various topics discusses in these excerpts include such basic information about comets as their components, paths, and origins. (DH)

Reviews recent findings related to Miranda, the icy satellite of Uranus. Includes Voyager photographs, computer-generated mosaics, and maps as well as interpretations of the illustrations. (ML)

Reviews the history of pulsars generally and the 1974 discovery of the binary pulsar by Joe Taylor and Russell Hulse specifically. Details the data collection and analysis used by Taylor and Hulse. Uses this discussion as support for Albert Einstein's theory of gravitational waves. (CW)

Lists and describes a variety of major national astronomy organizations which amateurs can join. It also lists stores and institutions across the U.S. that offer a discount to members of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP). (Author/SA)