Describes a demonstration in which the local inertial frame of reference can be obtained in the laboratory by allowing a cage to fall freely without rotation under the influence of gravity. (HM)

Presents a summary of each paper presented at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference at the Johnson Space Center, Houston in March 1980. Topics relate to Venus, Jupiter, Mars, asteroids, meteorites, regoliths, achondrites, remote sensing, and cratering studies. (SA)

Discusses the trigonometric or heliocentric parallax method of measuring distances to the stars. A description of how parallax distances are derived, the importance of this method, and the limitations of this method are also included. (DS)

Presents a report about astronomy education in the United Kingdom. Some of the views about astronomy activities in schools and the importance of teaching astronomy and space science in British schools are included. (HM)

Describes a sundial contest used to generate interest and enthusiasm in astronomy class. Presents diagrams of three basic types of sundials, a sundial time correction form, and guidelines for a successful contest. (MA)

Traces the role of women in the scientific community in the United States since the mid-nineteenth century. Specific concern is directed towards the education and career opportunities of female astronomers. (MA)

Describes an exercise developed by the author to help college students to become familiar with the technique of photoelectric photometry of variable stars and permits each student to work with data he or she has personally obtained. (HM)

Explains the nature of the Advanced Astronomy Camp (AAC), which is held at an observatory at the University of Arizona. For one week, students are immersed in doing science and engineering, using modern astronomical equipment under the guidance of scientists and graduate students. (DDR)

Reports the results of an informal survey of instructors and students of astronomy and authors and editors of astronomy books. Finds that not a single instructor respondent reported being satisfied with the books themselves and not one author or editor reported being satisfied with the market. (DDR)

Provides details of an activity designed to help students understand the relationship between astronomy and geology. Applies concepts of space research and map-making technology to the construction of a topographic map of a simulated section of Venus. (DDR)

Presents a strategy that helps students visualize and comprehend moon phase changes through activities that use an Earth-centered point of view along with direct observations of the moon. Describes activities that parents can use at home to help children become familiar with observing moon phases. (JRH)

Discusses how the topic of cratering can be used to help students develop inquiry skills. Details five activities that focus on the nature and processes of cratering. (DDR)

Discusses the implications of withdrawing support for programs that bring amateur and professional astronomers into the schools. Provides insight into the perspectives of the scientists who are involved with schools as well as the perspective of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). (DDR)

Discusses the role that online instructors should take when facilitating asynchronous discussion forums. Presents a study of an online astronomy program in an Australian university that investigated ways that the rate at which instructors posted and how often the instructors initiated discussions correlated to student posting rates and student…

Described is an astronomy lesson designed to explore the relationship between the angle of the sun, the position of the north star, and the horizon line of a local area. Activities for teaching protractor fundamentals are included. (CW)