Racialization Obscures Islamic Astronomical Tradition
Dominant narratives shape our understanding of astronomy’s historical development. Racism and other forms of marginalization certainly influence science today. But looking back in time,…
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The Martian Subsurface: A Shielded Environment for Life?
Among our solar system’s planets, Mars seems a likely spot for future human habitation. Elon Musk is developing an interplanetary vehicle that may someday…
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Popular Science Books: Creating Excitement and Enthusiasm
What role do popular science books play? If done right, they cultivate interest in science among everyday people. Sometimes, they spur readers to become…
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Featured Project: Under Stranger Stars
In Under Stranger Stars, the player captains a spaceship in a comedic sci-fi universe that features arcade combat, quests, and open-world exploration. The game…
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Our Sun: The Closest of Stars
The sun is our immediate connection to the cosmos. Its light illuminates our world. Its energy fuels most life as we know it. It…
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Human-Robot Cooperation in Space
Artificial intelligence is advancing space exploration. But how far will it go? To what extent will automated systems relieve humans of the burdens they…
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Mainstreaming SETI: ‘Oumuamua and Light-sails
Recently, an interstellar object named ‘Oumuamua entered our solar system. It was the first such observed object in recorded history. Scientists were thus already…
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Space Capitalism: Laissez-faire in the Heavens
Space is becoming popular with billionaires. Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson all have their eyes set on the stars. Their ventures signal…
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Racial Identity and Physics
What is the relationship between racial identity and a scientific field like physics? At first glance, they seem disconnected: one is a phenomenon of…
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Reimagining Holst’s The Planets
Gustav Holst’s The Planets premiered 100 years ago. The orchestral suite has become a modern classic, with John Williams reputedly being influenced by it…
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