Isaac Newton, born in Woolsthorpe, England, in 1643, overcame a challenging childhood to become a pioneering figure in science. His “Principia Mathematica,” published in 1687, formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, revolutionizing physics. Newton’s work extended to mathematics, optics, and astronomy, leaving an enduring impact on the scientific method.
December offers a perfect opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky with longer nights and clearer skies. The month is filled with an impressive spate of meteor showers, close visual approaches of the celestial objects, and December solstice which marks the shortest day on the calendar or the longest night to do a lot of astronomy activities.
There are a few things as fascinating to the human mind as the glimmering shower of meteors across the dark night sky. Whenever we look up, we expect to see the Moon, stars, and maybe even a galaxy or two on the clearest of nights- but you don’t always see meteors. Meteor showers are a transitory part of the night sky, which makes them that much more special. Affectionately called shooting stars, meteors are always a pleasure to witness (and to make special wishes).