Geology is the science and study of the solid and liquid matter that constitutes the Earth. The field of geology encompasses the study of the composition, structure, physical properties, dynamics, and history of Earth materials, and the processes by which they are formed, moved, and changed. The field is a major academic discipline, and is also important for mineral and hydrocarbon extraction, knowledge about and mitigation of natural hazards, some engineering fields, and understanding past climates and environments with reference to present-day climate change.

Etymology
The word "geology" was first used by Jean-André Deluc in the year 1778 and introduced as a fixed term by Horace-Bénédict de Saussure in the year 1779. The science was not included in Encyclopædia Britannica's third edition completed in 1797, but had a lengthy entry in the fourth edition completed by 1809.[1] An older meaning of the word was first used by Richard de Bury to distinguish between earthly and theological jurisprudence.

-Source: Wikipedia.

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Corpus Christi Geological Society
P.O. Box 1068
Corpus Christi, TX 78403

Coastal Bend Geophysical Society
P.O. Box 2471
Corpus Christi, TX 78403

Star Light Reports

April 2011

 

“Star light, Star bright...


the first star you see at night..."

Starting in early April 2011 our night sky in Corpus Christi will be blessed to have the superstar ringed planet, Saturn, rise over the Gulf beginning about 10p.m. nightly. It reaches opposition from the sun and thus peaks visibility the night of April 4th and will rise about 4 minutes earlier every night (or 2 hours per month). In late April we will see the ringed planet rise at 8p.m., in May 6 p.m., etc.

This is due of course to our changing positions as Earth & Saturn orbit the sun. I will be on the Island sea wall with my huge computer-guided telescope giving nightly 'Star Party' lectures from 8p.m. to midnight with a green laser, and that large telescope pointing out the stars, constellations, and planets starting April 1st 2011 and continuing through the summer. I will set up on the seawall next to the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort and would love to show you the rings of Saturn and other night sky jewels with my telescope and laser. I always tell my astronomy guests: "This will be the best time you've ever had in the dark." So if you want to get away from the TV one night and make a magical memory with your family, wife or friends join me and my telescope on the seawall. I try to restrict each star party to 10 people, so call me for a reservation if you would like to come. Call Planetary Geologist-Eddie Hrncir- cell phone (361-438-8733) to reserve a spot. Other objects you will see through the telescope are the Orion Nebula, the Moon, star clusters like the 7 sisters, the Big Dipper, and the North Star Polaris. In fact I will teach you how to determine your latitude by just using Ploaris and your closed fist. We will prove that science can be fun and you and your children will also learn something together.

For you early risers, Venus shines like a 'blowtorch' 2 hours before sunrise, also over the Gulf in the east. It is easily the brightest object in the night sky except for our moon.

Moon Phases for April, 2011

Sunday April 3 – New
Monday April 11 – First Quarter
Sunday April 17 – Full
Sunday April 24 – Last Quarter



Eddie Hrncir, Geologist CCGS



  
 


Astronomy Presentation by Owen Hopkins


Fun Video About Our Planet Packed With Info


Origin of the Days of the Week


What Happened to the Dinosaurs 65 Million Years Ago
 

Last Updated December 12th, 2011
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