Luminous blue variable stars showcase a spectacular and rare unstable stage in the death of massive stars. These supergiant stars can rapidly and unpredictably change both their brightness and spectra in outbursts that can last for decades. Some giant eruptions produce nebula that surround the star. Although known for centuries, the identification of the underlying physics remains elusive, and new behaviors continue to be discovered. Long programs of periodic monitoring have produced important pieces of this, as yet, unsolved puzzle. Understanding this dramatic phase will help complete the sequence of massive star development and delineate the progression to the final stellar death as a supernova explosion.... Read More

In September, the northern hemisphere is treated to a view of Aquarius, the water god, and Capricornus, the water goat.... Read More

Thanks to Skillshare for sponsoring this video! First 100 people will get a 2 month trial for free here: http://bit.ly/2u8lgYeTR... Read More

Ever wonder what it takes for a space mission to succeed?
The remarkable discoveries from Hubble and other space
telescopes are possible only if there is a capable and
effective command and control infrastructure. Join us for
a view into who and what it takes on the ground to operate
spacecraft from astronomical observatories to the
International Space Station. What was true before is still
true today: failure is not an option! ... Read More

I did not expect this to happen…scary but probably the most fun I had with a pool!... Read More

In August, the moons of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, the Perseid meteor shower, a partial lunar eclipse and more will be visible. ... Read More

Over the past couple decades, research has uncovered thousands of exoplanets in orbit around other stars. In particular, the NASA Kepler Mission taught us that Earth-sized planets are commonplace throughout the Galaxy. But the big question remains – did life take root on any of these distant worlds? Using upcoming large telescopes, astronomers will examine the atmospheres of Earth-like planets for the telltale chemical fingerprints of life. The search for life in the universe has entered an exciting new phase. ... Read More

A beautiful jet black iPhone 7 plus + Marshmallows. What could possibly go wrong? ... Read More

Backyard stargazers get a monthly guide to the northern hemisphere’s skywatching events with “Tonight’s Sky.” In July, large planets preside over southern skies. ... Read More