Tucked away in a star-forming region in the Taurus constellation, a pair of circling stars are displaying some unexpected differences in the circumstellar disks of dust and gas that surround them. A new study led by researchers at Lowell Observatory, combining data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and Keck Observatory, has unveiled intriguing findings about planet formation in this binary star system, known as DF Tau, along with other systems in this region. DF Tau … [Read more...] about Double the Disks, Double the Discovery: New Insights into Planet Formation in DF Tau
Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory Puts Space Discovery at the World’s Fingertips
Marley Foundation CFO Nancy Ball nailed it when she said, “If I were 6 years old, I would definitely spend the day here!” As if to prove her point, 6-year-old Brooks Sedlak of Scottsdale was one of the first to settle in at the Orbits Curiosity Zone of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center. “He wants to be an astronaut,” explained his mom, Stephanie. Likewise, hundreds of supporters, businesspeople, community leaders and space enthusiasts of all ages eagerly waited under light … [Read more...] about Lowell Observatory Puts Space Discovery at the World’s Fingertips
A Multi-Sensory Cosmic Connection to the Universe is Forming
With power tools and the precision of master craftspeople, the final gems are being meticulously set into what is being called the crown jewel of Northern Arizona. The Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center is scheduled to reveal its majestic science artistry and high-tech interactive exhibits Saturday, Nov. 16, in a grand opening with a grand view. On the rooftop of the three-story building, chairs are lined up like moonstones, ready to be positioned into place to connect guests with … [Read more...] about A Multi-Sensory Cosmic Connection to the Universe is Forming
Could Pluto Become Arizona’s State Planet?
The rattlesnake is Arizona’s official state reptile, petrified wood is the state fossil, and the bola (or bolo) tie is the state neckwear. Now, if Arizona lawmaker Justin Wilmeth gets his way, Arizona will become the first state to boast an official planet: Pluto. Wilmeth, a republican state representative for District 15, introduced the bill into the House on Jan. 17. Last April, he was part of a legislative delegation that toured the construction site of Lowell Observatory’s … [Read more...] about Could Pluto Become Arizona’s State Planet?
Diana Gabaldon to Headline Lowell Observatory’s I Heart Pluto Festival
“Outlander” series author Diana Gabaldon has been named as the keynote speaker for Lowell Observatory’s 2024 I Heart Pluto Festival’s Night of Discovery event. Gabaldon is an award-winning author and the great-granddaughter of Stanley Sykes, a pivotal figure in Lowell’s history. The event will be at the historic Orpheum Theater in downtown Flagstaff on Feb. 17. Gabaldon will share her insights and reflect on this unique familial connection, bridging her creative world with the scientific … [Read more...] about Diana Gabaldon to Headline Lowell Observatory’s I Heart Pluto Festival
