In this edition of Phil Harrington’s StarWatch, recorded December 14, 2008:
* The latest planetary-probe and astronomical news
* Astrobiology and the possibility of simple and complex life elsewhere in the cosmos
*Sky events for Slooh and backyard viewing
* New publications and books for astronomers
Phil Harrington is an adjunct instructor at both Dowling College and Suffolk County Community College where he teaches courses in stellar and planetary astronomy. He is a contributing editor for Astronomy Magazine and has authored several books, including Astronomy for All Ages, Star Ware, and Touring the Universe Through Binoculars. Phil is also a longtime Slooh SkyGuide and joins us each month for live commentary and Q&A with the Slooh ChatRoom.
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Podcast: SloohRadio – 12/14/2008 Phil Harrington's <i>StarWatch</i> [64:16m]:
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The holiday season is upon us again! In this SloohRadio Podcast of Phil Harrington’s “Star Watch,” Phil explains what to look for in a new telescope by considering the budget, recipient’s age, experience with astronomy, and of course, the size of their car! In addition to some specific manufacturers’ recommendations, Phil also explains what to avoid when buying a ’scope and gives sound fundamentals to the selection process.
While this is well-timed for the holidays, Phil’s advice is valuable for any occasion where you want to purchase a new telescope (including one for you!) He also talks about the joy we all share when we have both our own equipment and the unique experience of Slooh.
This podcast is available for download below, and is also published on ITunes and all major podcast listings. Remember you can subscribe to our podcast feed from ITunes for automatic delivery of all SloohRadio Podcasts.
Keep Looking Up!

Phil Harrington's Star Watch 11/9/2008 - Slooh Radio [62:22m]:
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Join astronomy author and Slooh SkyGuide Phil Harrington on Slooh tonight for a special preview of the total eclipse of the Moon this Wednesday. The celestial event will be visible by all of South America, much of North America, Western Europe and parts of Africa. Weather permitting, we will be able to watch the whole eclipse unfold here on Slooh. Phil’s preview show on Slooh Radio will explain how and why eclipses happen, their history, and what to look for from your own backyard this Wednesday. Come into the chat room to ask questions that he can answer live on air.
Phil’s personal photo of the 10/04 Lunar Eclipse: