Describes the physical aspects of Mars, including old and new theories. Discusses the proposed landing sites of Viking. (MLH)

Discusses the process of star formation. Infrared and radio astronomy, particularly microwave astronomy is used to provide information on different stages of stellar formation. The role of dust and gas which swirl through the interstellar regions of a galaxy and the collapse of a cloud in star formation are also presented. (HM)

Discusses a summary of research pertaining to the Martian data from the Viking mission. This is a summary of some of the papers presented at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. (MR)

Explores a view of the cosmological evolution of the universe. (SL)

Discusses some recent advances in telescopes, in particular the design and construction of the Multiple Mirror Telescope in Mt. Hopkins, Arizona. (CP)

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)

Provides background information on radio galaxies. Topic areas addressed include: what produces the radio emission; radio telescopes; locating radio galaxies; how distances to radio galaxies are found; physics of radio galaxies; computer simulations of radio galaxies; and the evolution of radio galaxies with cosmic time. (JN)

Provides a bibliography of materials which deal with astronomy and: (1) science fiction; (2) poetry; (3) general fiction; (4) music; (5) psychology; and (6) the law. Also cites two general references on interdisciplinary approaches with astronomy topics. (JN)

Provides: (1) background information on features of the night sky and on how to observe them; (2) five activities; and (3) three ready-to-copy student materials. Activities include objectives(s), recommended age level(s), subject area(s), list of materials needed, and procedures. (JN)

The information explosion on the solar system has made old notions about space obsolete. This article offers information about the planets and suggests classroom activities and teacher resources. (DF)

Provides background information and references on Comet Halley (which will be observable by telescope in October 1985 and reach its most brilliant appearance in March and April of 1986). Suggestions for equipment and maps of its path through the sky are included. (DH)

Presents an annotated list of nontechnical astronomy books in these categories: amateur astronomy; children's books; cosmology; galaxies; general astronomy; history of astronomy; life in the universe; physics and astronomy; pseudoscience; quasars and active galaxies; solar system; space exploration; stars/stellar evolution; sun; astronomy…

Explains the physical principles which result in various colors of the sky. Topics addressed include: blueness, mystical properties of water vapor, ozone, fluctuation theory of scattering, variation of purity and brightness, and red sunsets and sunrises. (DH)

In most astronomy courses, descriptions of stars and constellations reveal the western European origins of the astronomers who named them. However, it is suggested that a study of non-western views be incorporated into astronomy curricula. Descriptions of various stars and constellations from different cultures and instructional strategies are…

Argues in favor of establishing an accreditable curriculum in "pure" astronautical engineering (leading to a bachelor of science degree in this field), giving reasons why such reform is needed (including equating "astronautics" with "aeronautics") and why a new curriculum is needed. (JN)