29 results

History and Sky Lore

The Case of the Stolen Sundial

During his time at Caltech in the 1930s, Russell Porter cast this beautiful sundial to adorn the campus. But it was stolen sometime during the 1970s — do you know where it is?

History and Sky Lore

Happy Birthday, Mr. Lincoln

On February 12th, the United States celebrates the 200th birthday of the country's 16th president. Discover how celestial events highlighted his life.

NASA logo

History and Sky Lore

NASA Turns 50: Take a Photo!

The U.S. space agency was founded 50 years ago today. You can celebrate by finding your favorite NASA photograph.

People, Places, and Events

New Date for Caesar's British Invasion

In 55 BC, when Julius Caesar and his fleet approached the white cliffs of Dover on the British coast, he faced unexpectedly strong tides. Researchers from Texas State University have used tidal measurements and other astronomical clues to revise the exact date of the historic landing.

History and Sky Lore

More Google Sky Goodness

Google's interactive star map has a bunch of new features.

Celestial News & Events

Martian Crater Named for “Chick” Capen

A crater on Mars has been officially named for the American scientist Charles F. Capen.

Astronomy and Society

Watch Winter Arrive

Finally, a live webcast of the solstice sunrise.

History and Sky Lore

The Red Planet We Never Knew

A new DVD entertains with a 50-year-old look at Mars.

Daylight Phenomena

The Transit of Venus: Tales from the 18th and 19th Centuries

Observers and administrators gather at the US Naval Observatory in Washington, DC, in preparation for the American expeditions to the 1874 transit of Venus.Courtesy US Naval Observatory Library. A magnificent rendezvous between the planet of love and the bright orb of the Sun. One of the most celebrated phenomena in…