August 2007

August 3: Monthly Meeting

A Star is Born

Jim Jackson
I will discuss the birth of stars. Stars form from the gravitational collapse of small “cores” deep inside giant molecular clouds. Since these clouds are opaque at optical wavelengths, the observations of these collapsing “protostars” must be conducted at radio and infrared wavelengths, where the clouds are more transparent. I will show how the observations reveal the various stages of star formation, from “starless cores,” though “hot cores,” and eventually, young stars. I will pay special attention to the most massive stars, whose origins are especially difficult to understand. A byproduct of this process is the origin of planets, and I will discuss some of the observational evidence that shows young solar systems in the process of formation.

Total Lunar Eclipse at Moonset

: By Dave Huestis
Were you one of the estimated 300 people who gathered at Tasca soccer field in North Scituate to view last March's total lunar eclipse, only to be disappointed by the clouds that did a much better job of covering the Moon than the Earth's shadow did? Well, you may remember I mentioned you would have another opportunity in August.

Picture Perfect for the Perseids

: By Dave Huestis
Prospects for the annual Perseids Meteor Shower haven't been this promising in years. On the peak night of activity, August 12-13, the Moon will be New and will not interfere by brightening the sky whatsoever! All we have to do is cross our fingers and hope that the sky is clear.

Help us complete our archives...

Do you have any anecdotes, personal stories, meeting notes, photos, or any other experiences you would like to share?