By The Adler Planetarium

Since it’s discovery, and 10 years after its reclassification to dwarf planet, Pluto is still plagued by its lack of true planet status. This begs the question, if Pluto isn’t a planet, then what is? What made the International Astronomical Union reclassify Pluto in 2006? On March 19th, the Adler Planetarium will be opening their newest temporary exhibition, What Is a Planet?, which explores the answers to these very questions.
The accepted definition of a planet has changed quite a bit over the past 500 years. At various moments the term has been used to describe the Sun, the Moon, and asteroids. And would you believe that Earth – the most familiar planet of all – hasn’t always been considered a planet?!

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Posted on March 8, 2016

By Helene Smith

Where the beef is.
(ENLARGE FOR PROPER VIEWING)

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Posted on March 4, 2016

‘A Dazzling Spectacle’

“China’s First Emperor and His Terracotta Warriors will be displayed at Chicago’s Field Museum,” New China TV reports. “Ten of the Emperor’s famed terra cotta figures have made the long journey from Xi’an to Chicago, along with 171 other artifacts on loan from 14 different museums in China.”

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Posted on March 2, 2016

By The Forest Preserves Of Cook County

Did you know that just after dusk in late March and early April, the male timberdoodle performs a strange mating ritual? Or that Baltimore orioles have a serious sweet tooth in spring and fall? The native and migrating birds spotted in the Forest Preserves of Cook County are as diverse and interesting as the Forest Preserves themselves.
Throughout 2016, the Forest Preserves invites visitors to take advantage of frequent opportunities to view some of the most interesting and spectacular birds in the preserves. Odd mating dances, unbelievable migrations and interesting birds including ruby-throated hummingbirds and red-bellied woodpeckers will take center stage at bird walks, festivals and informational programs across Cook County.

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Posted on March 1, 2016