Abstract This paper argues that in an ever-expanding galaxy, humans cannot be the only intelligent life forms and how somewhere, in some universe exists a form of life equal or superior to, intellectual capability and performance of humans. It looks at the attempts that have been made in the past such as the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence government program and how such methods such as interstellar communication should leave us open for communication with aliens.
From the Paper "The Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence or SETI was the most famous government funded program initiated to find intelligence life. This program was designed to communicate with aliens in far reaches of the galaxy by using radio signals that travel at the speed of light. The radio signals that were sent out included a wealth of information about man kind and the earth. It would send information about us humans; like the location of our home world, population of the earth, and little useful things for anyone that is listening could hear. SETI exists to this day and is still sending out signals. It is also listening with some of this world's largest satellite dishes. So far, they have discovered no evidence of an advanced civilization. "
Abstract This paper examines why Earth is the only planet in our solar system capable of sustaining life and how it is the only planet that has plentiful liquid water and an atmosphere that can protect the planet from the harmful ultra-violet rays of the Sun. The paper attempts to determine what makes Earth so special by using comparative planetology to understand what makes Earth a habitat for life and what makes it so different from the other planets in our solar system.
From the Paper "If we were to look at Earth as a starting point to compare the other eight planets in our solar system, the first thing we notice from space is the magnificent blue color and swirls of clouds. This is an inviting sight and is the first hint at why life is found on our planet. Earth has many features that the other planets do not have. Earth has many features that make it unique. Earth is made of rock and metal. It is one of the four terrestrial planets and has the largest Moon in the solar system. Earth has abundant volcanic activity because of its size in comparison to the other terrestrial planets. With the abundance of water and oxygen, Earth's atmosphere stays in balance and is able to continue supporting life. The liquid oceans help to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the presence of a stratosphere helps protect the surface from the deadly ultra-violet rays of the Sun. Another unique feature of Earth is plate tectonics. Plate tectonics acts as giant conveyor belt that moves the mantle of Earth around, which constantly changes the look of our planet. Although Earth's interior needs much more exploration, scientists can tell about the composition of the deepest regions of Earth by using seismic waves following an earthquake. By reading this seismic data carefully, scientists get a better understanding of interior Earth."
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that about once a day, somewhere in the universe a burst of gamma rays appears as if out of nowhere. It lasts a very short time, no more than a few seconds, and then disappears. The writer points out that during the event, the level of radiation from the gamma-ray bursts is so high that it overwhelms any other gamma rays coming from other cosmic sources. It has also been observed that most gamma-ray bursts have an afterglow in the x-ray, and sometimes even optical, wavelengths ranges. The writer maintains that the research into gamma-ray bursts will continue until their nature is finally understood. The writer concludes that while this research goes on, the accumulated information and the intermediate hypotheses are already helping astronomers and cosmologists to better understand the universe, particularly the time when it was just beginning to form.
Outline:
Definition and Description
Research Goals
History
Analysis
Future Research
From the Paper "Despite the inconsistent nature of these bursts, some patterns have been identified. One prominent distinction is between long and short bursts, those over 2 seconds and those less than that. Analysis of almost 2,000 gamma-ray bursts recorded by the BATSE device on the Compton Gamma-Ray Observatory between 1991 and 2000 showed that each falls into one of two groups: the short bursts have closely-spaced high-energy photons; the long bursts' photons appear to have lower energy and are more widely spaced.
"Another pattern that was discovered is related to the degrees of brightening and fading that the bursts exhibit over time in various channels of the measured energy spectra over the life of the burst. This analysis showed that different bursts release their gamma rays at different rates in different energy spectra When plotted, these variations manifested themselves as 5 distinct patterns: flat, crescent (or double-crescent), loop, lobe and island."
Abstract This paper discusses what has come to be known as 'possibly the greatest hoax the U.S. government has conspired' - namely the first man landing on the moon. The author reviews the facts surrounding the issue together with a literature review of those that claim it was all a hoax.
From the Paper "Let's rewind, back to the year, 1969. This was the year that the "globally accepted" American heroes, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history. Two astronauts were the first humans to land on the moon. The excitement was watched worldwide as the American flag was inserted into the surface of the moon. The words declared in 1961 by John F. Kennedy had prevailed. "I promise America.... America will land on the moon by the end of the century!"(Braeuing). The United States has defeated Russia (formerly known as the USSR) on the race to the moon. As people reflected about the great technological advances, one thought was forgotten. Can all of this really be realistic? Could America really accomplish an achievement that seemed flawless? Let's read in between the lines, and take a deeper look into reality. This can possibly be the greatest hoax the U.S. government has conspired. Open your eyes to an Apollo moon landing conspiracy theory. "Houston, we have a problem!"
Abstract An article about various theories which describe the origin of the universe. The author investigates each theory: steady state theory, geometric theory, small bang theory and big bang theory and provides a personal opinion about the relevance of each.
From the Paper "Since the dawn of intelligent man, humanity has speculated about the origins of the universe. There is evidence, which indicates that the universe started around 15 billion years ago. This is probably the greatest discovery imaginable; however, the universe still seems to be a very controversial subject. Most scientists agree that there was a beginning but there is a lot of speculation of how it (the universe) actually started. The much-celebrated Greek philosopher, Aristotle, denied the fact that there ever was a beginning. He and his associates believed in the eternal existence of the universe, they also tried to prove that the universe was static, and was unchanging in time. However, there is evidence, which suggests that the universe is changing with time."
Tags: evolution, bang, geometry, physics, science, world
Comparing the contributions made by Galileo to the exploration of space using his telescope to the contributions made by others using modern telescopes.
2,995 words (approx. 12 pages), 12 sources, 2000, $ 88.95
Abstract A paper on the development of the telescope by Galileo Galilei. The author discusses the many theories borne from Galileo's observations of the heavens.
From the Paper "Centuries ago, a tube and two lenses were the only essentials needed to start the journey into the sky. This instrument, called a telescope, expanded the human vision and brought new light from beyond their world and beyond the already visible sky. It allowed mankind to explore the most distant places imaginable without leaving their backyard. Astronomers have studied the stars for centuries, and, with the aid of a telescope, have discovered new entities that exist in the universe. The first person to use this tool for astronomical purposes was Galileo Galilei. He was the first to turn a telescope up into the stars and make observations. His telescope was crude and not as powerful as telescopes today, but it was effective during his time. Although modern telescopes are far more powerful and extremely effective due to electronics, mirrors, and other enhancements to the design of the telescope, the observations and discoveries made by Galileo and his rudimentary telescope are just as significant as those made by telescopes today and in the future."
The history of rocketry from concept to modern day space travel. Researches the rocket engine's international development and significance in the space program.
2,940 words (approx. 11.8 pages), 4 sources, 1999, $ 86.95
Abstract This research paper investigates the science of rocketry starting with the original concept, up to the present day space program. Developments in Germany, Russia, and the U.S. are detailed, along with the ways in which rockets have been used both on earth and in space. Most of the paper will deal with the development of the rocket engine up to its present day standards and its history in space flight.
From the paper:
"The notion of flying has fascinated people since the beginning of history, and most likely since the beginning of time. With the development of astronomy, man shifted that dream to another realm: outer space. Robert H. Goddard, a physicist of the early 1900?s, once told a story in his autobiography of how he was inspired to follow the dream of space flight. He recalls once when he was 17 years old; he was trimming branches in a cherry tree, and looked out at the sprawling country landscape. He imagined how fabulous it would be to soar upward into space, watching the earth receding below him. ?I was a different boy when I descended the ladder,? Goddard states, ?Life had now a purpose for me.?
Abstract In this paper the plot of the movie directed by Stanley Kubrick and the book written by Arthur C. Clarke are summarized with emphasis on the philosophical and ethical issues presented in the story. A more detailed analysis of the ethical issues, including man becoming god and Hal the computer, concludes the paper. The paper is written from a Christian perspective and relates the story to Biblical examples.
From the paper:
"2001: A Space Odyssey" was written by Arthur C. Clarke and published in 1968 at about the same time as the movie of the same title was released. It is interesting to note that the film and the book were being produced at the same time. Rather than to base one on the other, the movie and the book were made almost as one, with modifications being made to suit the needs of the writer and director. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the movie was left more open-ended than the book, and tended to draw either praise for its ingenuity or harsh judgment for its dullness and lack of imagination. Whether the first or the latter opinion is correct, one thing is for certain: 2001 is an epic that changed the face of science fiction and paved the way for a whole new way of thinking."
Abstract This paper talks about the ways in which the shuttle is designed to overcome basic heat transfer problems during launch, orbit and re-entry. The main points in this paper are the active and passive systems in the TPS and the history of the shuttle design.
From the Paper "10...9...8...Patiently the Space Shuttle waits on the launch pad...7...6... everything is in place...5...4... all functions are working properly...3... the conditions are comfortable on the coast of Florida, and the temperature is nice and warm...2...1... IGNITION! (Figure #1) The sudden burn of the rockets jolts the humongous craft to life. As streams of flame shoot out its lower portion, the craft begins to inch skyward. In no time its speed has increased, and it begins hurtling through the air towards its mission. While still inside Earth's atmosphere, the airflow over the Shuttle begins to warm the craft's surface, until it becomes "white hot." Then, the craft breaks free of the atmosphere's restraints, plunging into the freezing void of outer space. The Space Shuttle must be able to withstand these temperature extremes and still accomplish its mission objectives. After the mission, as the craft returns to Earth, it again encounters tremendously high temperatures as it re-enters Earth's atmosphere. The Shuttle encounters a lot of atmospheric resistance and slows itself down through this phase, then finally glides to a comfortable rest at Edwards Air Force Base in sunny Southern California, where the astronauts and craft must prepare to begin the process all over again. These intense hot and cold extremes drive scientists and design engineers as they work to control the internal temperature of the space shuttle throughout the various phases of its journey. They do this by using many creative systems such as specially designed tiles and radiator systems, to both reflect and radiate heat that would otherwise be dangerous to the craft and crew."
Abstract This paper discusses what the universe is made up of, its age, how stars are formed and what is the future of our solar system. It discusses the history of the exploration of the universe. The author explains how In this century large telescopes are set up, far away from city lights and traffic to gather the best data for studying the skies. A brief overview of the theories on the origin of the universe is also given. The author concludes that although new theories are constantly being proposed and science is constantly to answer the question "Where did we come from"? , until now, no answer has satisfied everyone.
From the Paper "Man's fascination with the heavens is as old as recorded history itself. Astronomers from all civilizations"medieval to the present times"carefully observed the stars and their relative position in the night sky. Even in the medieval times, astronomers universally observed two features: that stars tended to drift westward with each passing night; and, despite this apparent movement, stars were always in a fixed position relative to each other. Anything that man could not explain, ending up fascinating him?as did the stars. It has been stated that when man loses his desire to explore the unknown, the human race will have sounded its own death knell."
Tags: universe, astronomy, stars, westward, observations, fixed, position
This paper explores the ancient Greek and Athenian concept of the world order and the conception of the human scrutinizing of previous societal, bodily and philosophical inquiry.
Abstract This paper examines the classic Greeks and Athenian view on the world around them. It describes the concept of the body, mind and inner self that lead to philosophical inquiry and questioning of the human mind and the resulting societies it created.
From the Paper "Athens during the fifth century B.C. is often identified as one of the main sources of Western values and standards. Later Europeans and Americans regarded the Athenians as the originators of democracy, drama, representational or realistic art, history, philosophy, and science. At different times over the last 2,500 years they also attempted to imitate the "Golden Age" of classical Athens in everything from buildings to literature. Many U.S. state capitols and government buildings are modeled on the Parthenon or other temples. We still divide drama into tragedy and comedy in the same way the Athenians did. During some historical periods, such as the Renaissance, thinkers and writers made conscious attempts to return to the classical ideals in all areas of life, combing the works of Athenians authors for previously overlooked material in the quest to draw guidance and learn everything possible from this unique flowering of culture."
Abstract The paper argues the scientific big bang theory and order in the development of our universe. It describes the hierarchy of events and the Great Chain of Being theory. In particular, it discusses the electron atom nucleus universe expands origin universe Big Bang primordial ball creation overall order. This paper is well formatted with intelligent depth to the argument of the creation of life and our planet.
From the Paper "Electrons circle the nucleus of an atom. Untold trillions of atoms collide together and explode. The universe expands. Electrons race down the copper wires of an electric cable. The sun shines. Leaves digest the sunlight, produce nutrients, live, grow, die, and fall to the ground. The wind bears aloft the leaves, scatters them over earth and sea. The tide moves them, pushes them up into rivers where at last they settle into the mud. Salmon swim upstream; lay their eggs on the muddy bottoms of lakes and rivers. A powerful grizzly bear nuzzles the icy water of a mountain brook. His great paw sweeps into the water and catches a darting salmon. Men come; establish a city on the banks of the stream. They drive the bear off. Their boats coast upon the surface of the sparkling water. Nets plumb the frigid depths, resurface filled with salmon. The men eat the salmon. The salmon are digested, turned into fodder for a thousand other creatures and into the food that builds civilizations. Digested again, these minute particles break down into molecules, and the molecules into atoms. A lone atom floats off in the vast emptiness of space. Electrons circle the atom's nucleus. These are cycles, yes, but wherein lays their ultimate origin? Is there a connection between all that makes up the universe? Is there a plan?"
From the Paper "The Cassini spacecraft was launched on October 15, 1997 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station using a U.S. Air Force Titan IVB/Centaur launch vehicle. The launch vehicle consisted of a two stage Titan IV booster rocket, two strap on solid rocket motors, the Centaur upper stage, and a payload enclosure or fairing. The complete Cassini flight system included the launch vehicle and the spacecraft, and the spacecraft, in turn, is composed of the orbiter and the Huygens probe. Such a space mission develops from a set of scientific goals, and in this case, science hopes to gain a better understanding of the planet Saturn, its famous rings, its magnetosphere, its principal moon Titan, and its other moons or "icy satellites." There may also be many other benefits, including technology spin offs, international cooperation, and educational motivation for people..."
Discusses the history & methods of the Search for Extra-Terrestial Intelligence (SETI). Examines both professional, government funded efforts & private, amateur ones.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 8 sources, 1996, $ 95.95
From the Paper "For almost as long as people have studied the sky, the question of whether intelligent beings exist elsewhere has remained. Until recently, only conjecture and flights of imagination provided any answers at all.
Mars, being one of Earth's closer planetary neighbors, often evoked conjecture. In the 1890's the astronomer Percival Lowell misinterpreted the discoveries of a contemporary, Giovanni Schiaparelli, as canals cut into the Martian surface (Blazing a trail to Mars, 97). In 1922, Guglielmo Marconi used a radio receiver aboard his private yacht to listen for broadcasts from Mars (Shostak, 1995, 1). The search for extra terrestrial intelligence has widened considerably since then. Recent..."
From the Paper "Different cultures produce their own particular way of structuring the world they see around them. They use religion and ritual to explain, to gain control, and to express their own sense of connectedness to their environment. Pre-scientific societies develop their own mythologies to explain the origin of the universe and of human life. A comparison of three such societies shows how varied these ideas can be, with reference to the Maya, the ancient Chinese, and the Indians of the American southwest.
The New Text School in China was dominant throughout most of the Former Han dynasty and was given its name only later in apposition to the Old Text school, which rose to prominence in the time of Christ and gained ascendance through the Later Han dynasty. By "old" text the name means that the work was written..."
