Abstract In order to shed some light onthe processes involved in the stars' life cycle, this paper discusses and analyzes how, throughout its 'life,' a star will remain dependent on other stars for its eventual re-birth--that is, the creation of another kind of a star. In line with the main topic of this paper, the discussion and analysis argue that the life cycle of a star is an interdependent and recurring process, mainly because stars depend on other stars to re-generate or create another star.
From the Paper "The second phase, the star's death, occurs when the star has finally used up its hydrogen atoms, and can no longer generate energy from its stellar body. As this happens, the star is "pulled" by the gravity and will burn its helium to become carbon, becoming a red giant. The dying star will be pulled towards the gravity because it will no longer have the counterforce that it once had (force from the energy radiated from it) in order to balance the two forces (gravity and energy pressure). Once helium gases were burned out or exhausted from the stellar body, carbon will be produced and scattered. The dead star will eventually have a carbon core, cool down, and become a white dwarf."
Abstract This paper examines the nature of the sun, the nature of light and how they are connected. The author points out that the connection lies in nuclear fusion, the process in the core of the sun by which incredible amounts of energy are produced during the fusion of hydrogen into helium. The paper relates that this energy exists across the EM spectrum, some of which is visible light.
From the Paper "The process by which the sun produces visible light is truly one of the most awe-inspiring processes in the universe and is directly responsible for all life on this planet. Light itself is a form of electromagnetic radiation that the sun produces through the principle of incandescence - essentially because it's very hot (Introduction to light, 2003). But of course, the production of light is a much more complex process than just because it heats up. The process by which the sun produces light is connected to nuclear fusion and Einstein's famous equation, E=mc2."
Abstract This paper discusses that idea that the basis of science in Shakespeare's plays does not hold a solid empirical view of the heavenly bodies, but certainly astronomy had a predecessor in astrology. By learning of the affect stars, planets, and the zodiac has on these the various characters Shakespeare brings forth, one can realize how magic and the desire for good fortune were central aspects of faith in these plays.
From the Paper "In this drama study, the basis of science and pseudo-science is brought forth in the dramatic works of William Shakespeare. In early astronomy, the use of astrology is communal used as a guide for many of the characters that Shakespeare used in his plays. In this analysis, the lack of real science in the plays of Shakespeare is evident, but surely, the precursor to modern astronomy is mentioned through his various quotes related to astrology. In essence, astrology is a form of science used in Shakespeare's plays that acts as a forerunner to the modern development of astronomy in 16th and 17th century England. The moon and the sun were visible guides for astrologers who wished to learn about how their future may unfold before them. "
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 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..."
