Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever heard the saying, “Watch out for pennies falling from the sky”? It’s a quirky way to remind us that sometimes, urban myths can strike closer to home than we think. This article tackles the tall tale head-on: could a penny dropped from a skyscraper height really be fatal? We’ll unpack the physics … Read more How High Does A Building Have To Be For A Penny Dropped From The Top To Kill A Person On The Ground?

Have you ever gazed up at the evening sky, entranced by the moon’s grandeur as it looms large on the horizon, only to wonder if your eyes are playing tricks on you? “Why does the moon get bigger when it’s closer to the horizon?” tackles this celestial conundrum head-on. Unveiling the intricate dance between our … Read more Why Does The Moon Get Bigger When It’s Closer To The Horizon?

In the cosmic theatre, the supernova is the ultimate spectacle—a star’s dramatic demise, outshining entire galaxies and scattering the seeds of creation. Yet, this stellar cataclysm is more than a distant light show; it’s a fundamental force shaping our very existence. The obliteration of a star by a supernova feels remote, but it’s intimately tied … Read more How Does A Supernova Completely Destroy A Star?

Ever pondered why satellite networks are sprawling with more than just a couple of satellites? It’s a common query, given that a single satellite has the capacity to observe half of our planet. This article is set to unravel this cosmic conundrum, shedding light on the intricate dance of satellites above us. We’ll delve into … Read more Since One Satellite Can See Half Of The Earth, Why Do We Need More Than Two Satellites In A Given Network?

Ever wondered why a laser beam, as bright and powerful as it seems, can become almost invisible when viewed from the side? It’s a perplexing phenomenon that raises questions about the nature of lasers and our perception of them. This article dives into the heart of this mystery, unravelling the factors that influence laser brightness … Read more How Bright Is A Laser Beam When Viewed From The Side?

Have you ever wondered how astronomers unlock the secrets of the universe’s past? “How does looking at distant galaxies allow us to look back in time?” is a question that takes us on a cosmic journey, revealing the intricate connection between space, time, and the very fabric of our universe. By delving into the mysteries … Read more How Does Looking At Distant Galaxies Allow Us To Look Back In Time?

Meteorites, those enigmatic space rocks that journey from the far reaches of our solar system to our very doorstep, have long captured our imagination and curiosity. But what really happens when they make contact with Earth? Contrary to popular belief, these celestial visitors are not scorching hot, but rather, they tell a story of a … Read more What Makes Meteorites So Hot That You Can’t Touch Them?

Ever looked up at the night sky, seen those captivating star spikes, and wondered, “Why do they form perfect crosses?” You’re not alone! This phenomenon, known as diffraction spikes, has intrigued sky gazers and photographers alike. In this article, we’re diving deep into the heart of these luminous crosses, unravelling the science behind them, and … Read more Why Do The Spikes That Shoot Out Of Stars Form Perfect Crosses?

Ever wondered how astronomers can confidently unravel the mysteries of the universe while bound to a single vantage point on Earth? It’s a cosmic conundrum that has perplexed minds for centuries. In this article, we’re diving deep into the world of astronomical observations, tackling the challenges posed by Earth’s limitations, and showcasing the innovative techniques … Read more How Can Astronomers Know Things For Certain Since They Only Look At Space From One Vantage Point?

Ever wondered about the overall electric charge of the universe? It’s a question that boggles the mind and sparks curiosity, holding profound implications for our understanding of the cosmos. Many of us grapple with the complexities of the universe, feeling overwhelmed by its vastness and the mysteries it harbours. This article is here to guide … Read more What Is The Overall Electric Charge Of The Universe?