Earth-Like CoRoT-7 B Likely A Volcanic Wasteland

Earth-Like CoRoT-7 B Likely A Volcanic Wasteland

Despite astronomers hopes, the rocky planet CoRoT-7 b that was discovered circling a star some 480 light years from Earth last October is likely a forbidding place that doesn't harbor life. Upon its…
Best New Astronomy Books?

Best New Astronomy Books?

What are the best new astronomy books?  I just got asked this question, and thought I'd hit up all you Bloggies for your opinions.  I'll also make sure to check with publishers at the…
Only 10 Percent Of Solar Systems Are Like Ours

Only 10 Percent Of Solar Systems Are Like Ours

In their quest to find solar systems analogous to ours own, astronomers have determined how common our solar system is--not very. In a study presented today at the American Astronomical Society…
Seen the Milky Way lately?

Seen the Milky Way lately?

In the age of the Hubble Space Telescope, and ever larger earthbound scopes being build, many people are of the impression that one needs costly equipment to enjoy the night skies. Nothing is further…
AAS Next Week (and haikus)

AAS Next Week (and haikus)

Next week is the winter 215th AAS meeting, this time in D.C..  I'll be there presenting there Thursday on Project Calliope, the ScientificBlogging music satellite I'm building in my basement for…