Astronomy May 2006

What happens when black holes collide?
Gravitational waves slingshot them outside galaxies on a frantic, deep-space journey. STEVE NADIS

Saturn’s Titan reveals earthlike surprises
The ringed planet’s largest moon has methane rivers and possible volcanoes that spew ammonia-ice lava — could life be next? BASHAR RIZK

Fatal attraction
In 2029, asteroid Apophis will pass dangerously close to Earth. Depending on its exact course, it may return with a vengeance in 2036. BILL COOKE

Searching for signs of life
Astronomers seeking life on other worlds first must understand how Earth would appear from far away. SARA SEAGER

Red Planet Rendezvous
Fly over Mars’ rugged Valles Marineris and witness mammoth landslides, steep cliffs, and whirling dust devils. ROBERT BURNHAM

All about the Whirlpool Galaxy
For amateurs and professional astronomers alike, this face-on beauty ranks as a celestial show piece. RAYMOND SHUBINSKI

The little comet that might
Uncertainty about how bright Comet 73P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 3 will be makes it a must-watch object this spring. MICHAEL E. BAKICH

Astronomer for a night
Kitt Peak National Observatory provides a unique fantasy camp for amateur astronomers. LAURA BAIRD

Ticket to the stars
Whether you’re a beginner or advanced observer, don’t leave home without Astronomy’s new star guide. MICHAEL E. BAKICH