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The First White Dwarf, Black Holes Unmasked, and Planetary Nebulae in Cassiopeia
In the December 2022 issue of Sky & Telescope, we’re on the hunt for the first white dwarf star. While many think Sirius B was the first one to be discovered, that honor actually goes to 40 Eridani. But astronomers knew about Sirius B and 40 Eridani long before they found out about white dwarfs — so the real question is, how did they uncover the true nature of these stars? Plus, astronomers are looking into what stars’ activity means for their exoplanets. Does a more active star produce life or prevent it? And what does that mean for the search for extraterrestrial lifeforms? Then, S&T Science Editor Camille M. Carlisle gives us the low-down on the first image of our galaxy’s central black hole.
FEATURE ARTICLES:
The first image of our galaxy’s central black hole gives us a peek at a bizarre object.
By Camille M. Carlisle
Cassiopeia’s Planetary Nebulae
The celestial queen holds a pleasing selection of planetary nebulae. Enjoy them on these winter nights.
By Scott Harrington
The road to discovering a new type of star was long and winding.
By Ken Croswell
What does stars’ tempestuous activity mean for their planets’ habitability?
By Arwen Rimmer
Here’s how to reveal the reflected light of stellar explosions photographically.
By Rolf Wahl Olsen
Beyond the Printed Page:
Check out this awe-inspiring collection of planetary-nebula drawings.
Find out when the Moon will pass in front of Mars in your area.
Use our Mars Profiler to plan your observing session.
Listen to the sounds of the universe and discover gravitational-wave events.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:
The constellation is more than just a couple of clusters and a bright star.
By Fred Schaaf
A Transitional Mars Opposition
The Red Planet offers a double dose of December observing pleasure.
By Bob King
Follow the clues leading back to the formation of two large lunar basins.
By Charles A. Wood
Compositional Tips for Astrophotographers
There’s more to a great shot than just getting the exposure right.
By Tony Puerzer
Table of Contents
See what else December’s issue has to offer.
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