Reviews four books dealing with the following topics: astronomy, computers, cryptology, and physics. (AEA)

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 a technique whereby qualitatively correct models of differentially rotating degenerate stars may be constructed by simple methods available to undergraduate students. (Author/JN)

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)

Discusses the state of the early universe based upon deductions from current observations. (SA)

Presents part two of an article that discusses the opinions of the public and scientists regarding Einstein and his theory of relativity during the years after 1919. (HM)

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)

Describes a two-hour physics laboratory experiment modeling the phenomena of eclipsing binary stars developed by the Air Force Academy as part of a week-long laboratory-oriented experience for visiting high school students. (BT)

Described is a three-week unit on stellar evolution and cosmology taught as part of a one-year introductory high school physics course for seniors. Prerequisite topics necessary for a student's understanding of the material and topics covered during the unit are presented. (BT)

Proposes an activity whereby science students develop critical thinking skills. Students are to debate the belief that the earth is flat. Guidelines are provided. (MA)

Presents an activity whereby students describe the path of Mars through a background starfield. Includes purpose, materials, pre-lab, and procedure. Also provides guidelines for making a dial-a-planet wheel. (MA)

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)

Presents a guide to be used by students and teachers in conjunction with a television program about Einstein. Provides general information about special and general relativity, and the universe. Includes questions for discussion after each section and a bibliography. (MA)

Reviews six new children's books in the areas of astronomy, energy, mathematics, and physics. (GT)