Physics and Astronomy News Archive: July 2010

Image: NASA Telescope Finds Elusive Buckyballs in Space for First Time

NASA Telescope Finds Elusive Buckyballs in Space for First Time

Source: NASA/JPL   Posted: 7/25/10

Astronomers have discovered carbon molecules, known as 'buckyballs,' in space for the first time. Buckyballs are soccer-ball-shaped molecules that were first observed in a laboratory 25 years ago.
Image: Explained: Bandgap

Explained: Bandgap

Source: MIT   Posted: 7/25/10

Understanding how electrons get excited is crucial to creating solar cells and light-emitting diodes.
Image: Radio Astronomers Develop New Technique for Studying Dark Energy

Radio Astronomers Develop New Technique for Studying Dark Energy

Source: NRAO   Posted: 7/25/10

This new telescope promises to provide valuable clues about the nature of the mysterious 'dark energy' believed to constitute nearly three-fourths of the mass and energy of the Universe.
Image: A plane that lands like a bird

A plane that lands like a bird

Source: MIT   Posted: 7/25/10

An innovative control system allows a foam glider to touch down on a perch or a wire like a pet parakeet.