Return to FHS Astronomy Page
We intend to update this page every month and provide new information happening in
the field of astronomy that is of interest to students. If you find a glaring
error or have some information to share, feel free to let us know: astro@astro.newaygo.mi.us
The space probe "Clementine" was launched by the Department of Defense in 1994 to closely image the Moon's surface. Recently, scientists have discovered images from Clementine that reveal a frozen lake of water about 25 feet thick located in a crater near the Moon's southern pole. This water most likely was placed there by a comet and could aid future moon colony attempts by not having to transport the initial water supply to the Moon. Visit these sites for more information on the finding and the Clementine space probe:
Did primitive life once exist on Mars? A new discovery has led scientists to reevaluate this question. A meteorite that was discovered two years ago in Antarctica and that is believed to be a chunk of Mars from 3.6 billion years ago has scientists scurrying for explanations. Hidden within the rock are what appear to be tiny organic single-celled organisms. Or are they? The debate is sure to last for several more years. More information, including pictures and interviews, can be found at the following site:
Are we alone in the universe? New discoveries have brought us one step closer to finding the answer. Recent technology improvements have opened a floodgate on extrasolar planet discoveries, with the count currently rising. Will it ultimately lead to the discovery of new life? Visit the following link to learn more about the newest planet discoveries:
Comet Hyakutake provided a grand opening act for the forthcoming Hale-Bopp show in 1997. Comet Hale-Bopp (named for its discoverers) will be binocular visible this summer, and is expected to outshine 1976's Comet West in the spring of 1997. Click here for a chart showing Hale-Bopp's position in the sky, or visit the following pages: