There'll be fireworks when the ice dwarf cometh

Article Abstract:

Astronomers have so far discovered 19 small worlds in the furthest reaches of the solar system. They are thought to be made up mainly of solid ice, and are chunks left from the formation of the planets. The discovery of these 'ice dwarfs' has given additional insights into the origins of comets. It is now expected that in 1996, one of these ice dwarfs, named Chiron, will enter the inner part of the solar system, causing an extremely bright blaze in the sky.

Author: Henbest, Nigel, Couper, Heather
Solar system

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


By Jupiter! A relatively close encounter

Article Abstract:

March is the best time of year to see the planet Jupiter as it is at its brightest being closest to the earth at 660 million kilometres. Jupiter has 16 moons; 4 are visible. The moons travel faster than the Earth's Moon taking 17 days rather than a month. A Jupiter day lasts less than 10 hours. Jupiter consists of gases and has no solid surfaces. The molten rock at its core is larger than Earth. Jupiter appears striped due to the bands of clouds.

Author: Henbest, Nigel, Couper, Heather
Analysis, Jupiter (Planet)

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


We can't see you. Are you really there?

Article Abstract:

Astronomers investigate planets circling stars by analysing measurements of stars made by the two satellites, Hipparcos and Hubble. The gravity of the planets pulls slightly if there is a planetary system. Results can be contradictory, as the minute wobbles are sometimes hidden by the Earth's stratosphere's dazzle. Alterations in wavelength of the light a star emits and infra-red radiation also indicate the existence of a planet.

Author: Henbest, Nigel, Couper, Heather
Science and technology policy, Astronomical research, Planets, Stars, Radio astronomy, Extraterrestrial radiation

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


Subjects list: Research
This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.