Astronomy June 2006

COVER STORY
The first billion years
After the release of the cosmic background radiation, darkness fell over the universe. ADAM FRANK

Seeing red
Color is the key to understanding asteroid family histories. PETER AND ROBERT JEDICKE

Supernova aftermath illustrated
A supernova’s impact lives on long beyond its fading light. FRANCIS REDDY; ILLUSTRATION BY DANA BERRY

How we discovered Pluto’s new worlds
Planetary scientists S. Alan Stern and Hal Weaver take us inside the search for new worlds.

Are Pluto and Earth two of a kind?
Pluto's three satellites, like Earth's Moon, may have formed from a giant collision. RAY VILLARD

Stargazing in ancient Egypt
The sky inspired Egyptians in science, art, and architecture. PATRICIA BLACKWELL GARY AND RICHARD TALCOTT

Tour summer’s great globulars
Sure they’re all round, but each globular cluster offers a different view through a telescope. STEVE COE

All hail the king
This guide will help you get the most from observing Jupiter at its best. MICHAEL E. BAKICH

Relive the Red Planet’s big show
Astroimagers captured their best views of Mars this past year. DONALD C. PARKER

Vixen’s go-anywhere scope
This lightweight refractor combines optical and mechanical excellence, portability, and ease of use. MIKE REYNOLDS