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Scientists study it like never before and many people enjoy astronomy today. From new space objects to new images, from new tools and techniques to new discoveries made with them, from new space missions to reviving and reviewing data from the old ones, keeping up with astronomy can certainly be a full time job. And it's fun. So here are a few of the latest and greatest astronomy facts, figures and happenings.
On any day meteors are a key element of astronomy today for that day. 2008 certainly was no different. In November the Taurids and Leonids were active in the night sky. Gemenids peaked in December, but unfortunately it was also the time of a full moon making them impossible to see. Don't fret. Meteor shower peaks may happen during full moons, but meteors are on display for up to two weeks both before and after the peaks. People won't miss these showers.
Astronomy today in 2008 was often a matter of discussing a return to the moon by 2015. Many countries would participate in this exciting undertaking. The goal may be to establish a moon base or even a colony on the moon. Imagine that. The old science-fiction show Space 1999 may soon come to life.
Space garbage, a used up tank, was often discussed when people talked about astronomy today. It had been discarded into space where it orbited for many months. But eventually its orbit decayed. There was some worry that large chunks would fall, or that some parts would strike in populated areas. The good news is that it all fell into the ocean.
Now for perhaps the biggest news of Astronomy today in 2008, it's all about the Hubble. First the telescope was damaged when some instrument control and data formatting modules failed in September. Those were brought back on line in October. Then the Hubble took the first ever visible light image of a planet orbiting another star. What a busy year for one piece of technology.
Astrology today is an ever expanding subject. Get the news online.
For more information about astronomy today and astronomy for kids, please check out our website where you will find lots more great content.
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