Discusses how to make and fly boomerangs. (BB)

Helioseismology (similar to geophysicists' study of seismic waves) makes it possible to penetrate the sun's opaque brilliance by measuring surface oscillations. Their pattern and period hold clues to temperature, structure, composition, and dynamics of the sun's interior. Scientists have used data to build models (evolved mathematically) to…

The Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) is a survey instrument that has provided an overall view of the infrared sky and identified objects that merit further investigation. A description of the IRAS and examples of the types of astronomical data collected are presented. (JN)

A discussion of the aerodynamics of a boomerang as it relates to that of a golf ball. (BB)

Describes the origin of the science of cosmology and the competing theories to explain the beginning of the universe. The big bang theory for the creation of the universe is contrasted with the steady state theory. The author details discoveries that led to the demise of the steady state theory. (PR)

Discussed are details of what is known about the composition, physical characteristics, and formation of the planet Pluto and its satellite, Charon. Alignments of these bodies and details of their rotations and revolutions are described. (CW)

Describes scientific events: computed tomography (CT) scanner and its costs, existence of Upsilon particle in its lowest excited state, animal psychology to determine their capabilities of symbolic communication, findings of Viking mission about Mars and its two moons, and finally gives credit to first discoverer of penicillin. (GA)

Presents the plans for constructing a spectrophotometer which can scan the spectrum in a thirtieth of a second. The instrument can be used to determine the absorption characteristics of a solution compared to a pure solvent. The instrument allows time to investigate phenomena that occur quickly. (Author/SA)

This is a discussion of the conservation of angular momentum of the human body engaged in somersaults and twists. The principle is also applied to a cat turning over in midair. The events occur in the absence of torques. Application of the maneuvers are suggested for astronauts. (SA)

Outlines the Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) mission to measure celestial radiation. Describes the instruments used and experiments involving differential microwave radiometers, and a far infrared absolute spectrophotometer. (YP)

Describes cosmic flukes which offer a unique window on new information about the universe. Discusses the historical background, theory, and detection of this effect. Proposes the importance of information found by the examination of these phenomena. (CW)

A method and an apparatus for safely observing sunspots is presented. The McIntosh system of sunspot-group classification is illustrated. Construction and enhancement of the apparatus are discussed. (CW)

Described is a symposium of Nobel laureates held in the summer of 1990 to discuss cosmology. Different views on the structure and evolution of the universe are presented. Evidence for different theories of cosmology is discussed. (CW)

Describes the very-long-baseline array (VLBA) system of radio telescopes that will be completed in the early 1990s. Explains how the VLBA system works and the advantages over present technology. Compares associated international telescopes and very-long-baseline interferometers (VLBI). Illustrates applications for the VLBA and VLBI. (CW)

The construction and use of an instrument to monitor ultraviolet radiation from the sun are discussed. A diagram of the ultraviolet-B radiometer which is connected to a digital voltmeter is provided. (CW)