Nova
Explosions in space are called Nova. This term is defined as the rapid increase and the eventual explosion of a star. The word has Latin origins and means “new star”.
Scientific Terms
Telescope
Photo by: DrJunge Creative Commons A telescope is an instrument used to observe objects from afar. The word is derived from Greek words tele and skopein which means “far” and “to see” respectively. Contrary to popular belief, it was not ‘invented’ by Galileo. There has been evidence of a refracting telescope that has been in
Neutron Star
Stars go through various phases of its existence. No one knows for sure how stars are formed, but astronomers theorize that they first come into birth as a nebula, and they finally end their lives as a neutron star, otherwise known as a white dwarf. Thereafter, they are assumed to to form part of a
Nebula
The word “nebula” comes from Latin which means “cloud.” It is apt, because nebulae (the plural of nebula) look like clouds of gases. Nebulae are made up mostly of hydrogen and helium gases, plus plasma and dust. These clouds are believed to be the birthplace of stars.
Lunar Month
The Sun and the Moon are two of the most observed celestial bodies. These celestial bodies that are seen at day and night time are often the basis for determining time. The Moon has been observed over time and its phases and eclipses have been the source of many superstitions and time calculations. A lunar
Meteor Storm
People from all walks of life may not agree on most things. But it is assumed that they do agree on the beauty of the sky, especially on a clear night. When you chance upon a meteor shower, you look up in awe in its beauty. But when you come upon a meteor storm, you
Neutron
A neutron, together with an electron and a proton, makes up an atom, the tiny particle that is the building block of all matter and everything that is in the universe. These three components of an atom were once thought to be the very basic building blocks of matter, but later discoveries unearthed the existence
Stellar Evolution
Stellar evolution encompasses the life of a star from its formation until its end. Many astronomers believe that the birthplaces of a star are those molecular clouds of gas located in the spiral arms of galaxies. The life of a star begins when protostars are created from the collapsed dense regions of gas clouds. At
Photosphere
Light emitted by astronomical bodies is one of the major clues found in the vast universe. With light, astronomers and astrophysicists can see beyond the stunning brilliance of the celestial bodies found in our galaxy. The Sun is probably one of the most brilliant celestial bodies that we have seen and the nearest to Earth.
Reticle
Fine lines or webs used in the focal plane eyepiece are called Reticle. It is used for centering objects or as a guide for making angular measurements. It is commonly used for telescopes, cameras and even rifles. It is also known as graticule. The lines on the reticle are also typically illuminated.