April 16, 2012
Sometimes the universe seems like something from Dr. Seuss. In recent weeks astronomers have demonstrated this by announcing the discovery of juggling galaxies as well as a square, emerald-cut, gem... Read more »
February 14, 2012
In 1987 there were 2 billion fewer people on the planet, The Simpsons were brand new to television, a first class stamp cost 22 cents and the first ?naked-eye? supernova in almost 400 years had... Read more »
January 12, 2012
Generally speaking, if you want to study science, you should study the language of science, which is math. Why is it then, that when astronomers are faced with a kindergarten-level math problem like... Read more »
November 10, 2011
By Andrew Cooper A telescope is all about the primary mirror. Be it a lens or a curved mirror, the size of the primary matters. The larger the primary the more light that can be gathered, allowing... Read more »
October 18, 2011
This our first in what we hope becomes a series of Observatory Intelligence Quotient (O.I.Q.) quizzes. Ready, set, go! 1) TRUE or FALSE? Keck astronomers are easily identified in the streets of... Read more »
August 12, 2011
Young people these days. They go through high school and college, trying to find their way in the world with gloom, doom and debt all around them. The path to becoming a highly skilled and employable... Read more »
July 11, 2011
Imagine scanning the Help Wanted ads and finding this:?MEN WANTED for hazardous journey, small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger, safe return doubtful, honor and... Read more »
May 12, 2011
When the Wizard of Oz roared that line, he was hidden behind a curtain. He knew all too well that he was not particularly great nor very powerful, and wanted no one to find out (a scheme foiled by... Read more »
December 22, 2010
Humans are not alone in their struggle against an increasing waistline. Astronomers believe that galaxies too put on weight throughout their lives, growing not only by consuming hydrogen gas—which... Read more »
August 11, 2010
This image shows the Keck I laser, which is part of the telescope’s Laser Guide Star Adaptive Optics system. The laser is launched from the center of the telescope behind the secondary mirror.... Read more »
W. M. Keck Observatory
