Moon Facts
• The precise distance to the Moon can be measured by bouncing a powerful laser off reflectors placed on the Moon by Apollo astronauts and a Soviet robotic rover.
• The Moon moves about 1.5 inches farther from the Earth each year.
• Spins on its axis every 27.32 Earth days, so the near side is always facing the Earth.
• A day on the Moon equals a month on Earth.
• The Moon’s gravity helps keep the Earth’s ecliptic small (compared to that of Mars, for example), which means fewer temperature variations and a more temperate climate on Earth.
Far Side Illuminates Mysteries of the Moon Professor Brad Jolliff’s interests go beyond the Earth-facing side of the Moon. His research team studies the surprising geology of the far side. [Web Extra Sidebar] Moon Facts [Web Extra Sidebar] If You Could See Gamma Rays From Earth [Web Extra Feature] 15 Secrets of Rudolph Hall The Earth & Planetary Sciences building was dedicated Scott Rudolph Hall May 4. Learn about 15 intriguing aspects of this much-loved building.
Shifting Landscape Professor Carolyn Lesorogol’s profound understanding of pastoralists in northern Kenya informs her research on the effects of property ownership on community. [Sidebar] Kenya Facts [Sidebar] Swiss Goat Holds Promise
Into the Fold Biomedical engineer Rohit Pappu directs the new Center for Biological Systems Engineering, where investigators use network approaches to solve problems underlying complex diseases. [Web Extra Sidebar] Pappu Collaborates With Marc Diamond, MD, of the Hope Center
A Place for Coming Together As president and CEO of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, alumnus Joe Daniels has helped create a place of reverence, where visitors honor the memory of 9/11.
A Good Guide Alumnus Villie Appoo employs social work principles to lead the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois.