Astronomy

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Astronomy is a form of natural science that studies objects of a celestial nature such as planets, stars, galaxies, comets, star clusters, and nebulae. It also takes into consideration phenomena such as background radiation that takes place outside of the atmosphere of Earth. Astronomy makes use of other disciplines of science such as physics, meteorology, and chemistry, as well as the overall development and formation of the entire universe.

Astronomy is by far one of the oldest science disciplines. In fact, there has been astronomical evidence left behind from prehistoric cultures such as Stonehenge, Nubian monuments, Egyptian monuments, and methodical night sky observations performed by early civilizations such as the Mayans, Greeks, Indians, Babylonians, and the Chinese. That being said, it was not until the telescope was invented that astronomy truly developed into a modern science.

Professional astronomy began to split into theoretical and observational branches in the 20th century. Theoretical astronomy has to do with the development of analytical or computer based models that describe particular phenomena and objects, while observational astronomy has to do with data that is strictly observed, and analyzed using physics principles. These two branches are often used simultaneously and complement one another. Theoretical astronomy often helps to further observations, and observations often confirm theories.

Today, many people, many of whom are amateurs, take part in the practice of astronomy. Amateur astronomers have actually become quite important to the field as they have made several of their own discoveries.

If you are interested in astronomy, and would like to learn more about the field, or just find out what other enthusiasts are seeing in their night sky, please log on to truthed.com’s astronomy section today. Here you can discuss astronomical issues with others, view videos and images, and learn more about various techniques and practices. Feel free to join the site to create your own posts and keep the conversations flowing.