Astronomy August 2010

How to find planets hidden by dust
The dust clouds that surround other stars can cloak an earthlike planet, but they also can offer tantalizing clues to a planet's presence.
By Marc J. Kuchner and Christopher C. Stark

Illustrated: Ring around the planets
Saturn sports spectacular rings, but all the gas giants in our solar system have ring systems on display.
By Bill Andrews; Illustrations by Roen Kelly

10 crazy ideas from astronomy's past
Some theories excel at explaining the universe. Others, like the ones here, are entertainingly ridiculous.
By Michael E. Bakich

How amateur astronomers are really doing science
Professional astronomers don't always catch everything in the sky. Astronomy enthusiasts are discovering near-Earth objects, measuring variable stars, and finding supernovae like never before.
By Brian Skiff

Challenge yourself with the Palomar globular clusters
Pull out your large scope, head to a dark site, and test your skills with these 15 extreme targets.
By Phil Harrington

Backyard astronomy on a budget
Amateur astronomy might seem like a daunting hobby, but you don't need much to get started.
By Glenn Chaple

Find your way through the fall sky
Easy-to-recognize star patterns, bright stars, and the Milky Way are just some of what the autumn sky has to offer.
By Michael E. Bakich

The Ceravolo 300 Astrograph: two scopes in one
This telescope's dual optical configuration offers wide-field and close-up imaging.
By Bob Fera