The use of accelerators as mass spectrometers puts the work horse of isotope dating on a new, more useful footing. (Author/BB)

Discusses the process of star formation. Infrared and radio astronomy, particularly microwave astronomy is used to provide information on different stages of stellar formation. The role of dust and gas which swirl through the interstellar regions of a galaxy and the collapse of a cloud in star formation are also presented. (HM)

Explores possibility of extra-terrestrial life, reviewing current hypotheses regarding where in space life would most likely occur. Discusses astrometry and spectroscopy as methods for determining stellar motions. Describes United States and Soviet projects for receiving stellar communications. Relates origin of life on earth to observed high…

Describes (1) several methods used in earthquake research, including P:S ratio velocity studies, dilatancy models; and (2) techniques for gathering base-line data for prediction using seismographs, tiltmeters, laser beams, magnetic field changes, folklore, animal behavior. The mysterious Palmdale (California) bulge is discussed. (CS)

Knowledge of where and how lightning forms is emerging from the first concerted research effort on thunderstorms in thirty years. (Author/BB)

Discusses the process of stellar death and the correlation between the size of a star in solar masses and its way of death. The amount of mass loss that occurs during the life and death of a star is also discussed. (HM)

Discusses how technological advancement, in particular: the explosion in useful wavelengths and the revolution in telescope design and fittings, multiplies astronomers' grasp of the cosmos. (HM)

The theory of plate tectonics is discussed as it relates to connection, purported to be the driving force involved in the movements of the earth's crust. (SA)

Focuses on recent research on currents and eddies of the earth's oceans. Special emphasis is given to instrumentation involved in studying the oceans. (SA)

Discusses the birth of the universe and its death. Whether the universe is closed or open is also discussed. (HM)

The presence of gravitational waves was predicted by Einstein in his theory of General Relativity. Since then, scientists have been attempting to develop a detector sensitive enough to measure these cosmic signals. Once the presence of gravitational waves is confirmed, scientists can directly study star interiors, galaxy cores, or quasars. (MA)