July 2010

Subscribe today and save!
The world's best-selling astronomy magazine offers you the most exciting, visually stunning, and timely coverage of the heavens above. Each monthly issue includes expert science reporting, vivid color photography, complete sky coverage, spot-on observing tips, informative telescope reviews, and much more! All this in an easy-to-understand, user-friendly style that's perfect for astronomers at any level.

Features

How we'll explore Pluto

By Richard Talcott

Now halfway to its goal, NASA's New Horizons spacecraft promises to reveal frigid Pluto during an extraordinary 9-month encounter in 2015.

pg. 24

Web extra: Exploring the solar system's frigid edge

By Richard Talcott

The faint, distant objects of the Kuiper Belt hide secrets as to how the solar system formed.

Hubble's top 5 science discoveries

By Ray Villard

From dark energy to exoplanets to black holes, the Hubble Space Telescope helps astronomers understand some of the biggest mysteries of the universe.

pg. 30

Web extra: See Hubble for yourself

By Bill Andrews

With a little luck and some planning, you could see the world's most famous telescope as it flies overhead.

How sky surveys will revolutionize astronomy

By Liz Kruesi

Two new telescopes will repeatedly image the cosmos in minute detail, revealing myriad asteroids and supernovae. They also will help determine dark energy's properties.

pg. 44

A famous telescope turns 40

By Don McCarthy, David H. Levy

Bart Bok was a proponent of educating students about astronomy. He'd be happy to know that the telescope that bears his name is now used for both research and education.

pg. 52

Web extra: A roundabout love of the sky

By David H. Levy

Dutch-American astronomer Bart Bok was interested in astronomy from a young age. One well-known story about what sparked his interest might surprise you.

Hot rocks ignite collector's passion

By David J. Eicher

At the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, leading meteorite dealers display spectacular new finds and old, treasured favorites.

pg. 54

Web extra: Videos from the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

By Michael E. Bakich

Listen to meteorite dealers talk about their favorite subject.

Observe 10 hot lunar targets

By Michael E. Bakich

The Moon's ever-changing face offers something for every amateur astronomer.

pg. 58

Web extra: Keep observing the Moon