In the Labyrinth

An APP For The Invisible Universe

A while back I posted a short film of Vatican astronomer, Father George V. Coyne, S.J. talking about his work as an astronomer. He told a wonderful story about "the long eyes," a Tohono O'odham phrase for the huge telescopes the astronomers use to look out at the heavens. I was thrilled today to find this fascinating film on a new way of looking at the stars through our cell phones and an app that helps us to see below the surface of the night's sky. Awesomeness abounds, especially for Droid users who can download the app. (Via Bioephemera)

The People With Long Eyes

I am very fortunate to be neighbors with a house brimming with Jesuit Vatican Astronomers who do work in both Italy and in Tucson (at the Graham Observatory). They are amazing scientists, priests, educators, and great talkers! As part of a project my husband and I are doing for the Jesuit Virtual Learning Academy, we are filming short interviews with these remarkable scientists discussing their work. The first one is from Rev. George V. Coyne, S. J. who spoke to us about the relationship of faith and science in his work.

Rev. George V. Coyne, S.J., on Views of the Universe

Top photo is "Rosette Nebula" from the divine Astronomy Picture of the Day

The Beauty of Mars

Isn't this the most astonishing photo? It was taken by the Phoenix Mars Lander which has recently arrived safely at Mars' north pole. Read more about the project (which is centered at the University of Arizona in Tucson) here.