Astronomy December 2012

Curiosity’s first days on Mars
By Bill Andrews
The inside story on the Mars Science Laboratory’s ambitious mission.
pg. 24

How the Orion Nebula works
By C. Robert O'Dell
Sorting out the regions within this huge stellar nursery is helping astronomers understand how stars and planets form.
pg. 30

5 top discoveries of the Herschel Space Observatory
By Steve Eales
Europe’s great infrared satellite has revealed part of the spectrum never before observed. Here’s what we’ve learned so far.
pg. 44

10 great hits from an obscure catalog
By Alan Goldstein
Start targeting Index Catalogue objects, and you’ll wonder why this massive list remains relatively unknown.
pg. 52

Totality rules Down Under
By Richard Talcott
Baily’s beads, two diamond rings, and a pearly white solar corona will greet observers who witness totality from Australia the morning of November 14.
pg. 56

How you can fight light pollution
By Scott Kardel
Starry skies don’t have to be a thing of the past. With three steps, you can help bring them back to your community.
pg. 60

"Astronomy" tests Celestron’s SkyProdigy 6
By Tom Trusock
This 6-inch telescope sets a new standard for ease of use.
pg. 64