Discovering our universe
My constant quest to explore and understand our universe, our planet, and the people that inhabit it.
The Universe and our place within it
Our Universe
Our universe is full of wonder. The vastness of space is incomprehensible. It's beauty is astounding in both form and function. This is a picture of the Orion nebula, also known as M42, home to about 2,000 stars.
As of recent estimates, the number of potentially habitable planets in our Milky Way galaxy alone ranges from several hundred million to a few billion. Given that the Milky Way is just one of an estimated 100 billion galaxies in the observable universe, the total number of potentially habitable planets could be on the order of 10 to the 21st power (one sextillion). With so many possibilities, how could we possibly be alone?
Our Planet
From our perspective on the surface, the earth seems enormous. But from space, it's a very different view indeed. This famous picture is from the Apollo 8 mission. As seen from the moon's orbit, our planet is but a tiny oasis floating in the vastness of space. Let's celebrate it, enjoy it, and take care of it.
Our People
Humans - the pinnacle of evolution, a Devine creation, or the result of some extra-terrestrial experiment? What ever you believe, we humans have virtually unlimited potential. We are masters of technology. We express ourselves through literature, art, and music. And yet out of ignorance, fear, or greed we can be incredibly cruel to our own kind. We need to realize that we are one species, one people sharing this precious, fragile planet. Let 's work together to preserve and nurture our planet. The first step is to look up at the stars and realize just how small and insignificant our problems really are. That we are a part of something much greater than ourselves.
We have the ability to change the world for the better. All it takes is for each of us, one by one, to make the decision to stop being selfish and instead make a positive impact on those around us.
John Lennon said it simply:
"You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one."
Selected pictures from my telescopes
