Derrick Pitts
Flash In East Coast Sky Has Social Media Buzzing
One person just leaving the Philadelphia Museum of Art reported seeing a streaking light in the sky caught.
Local Astronomer Says Asteroid That Hit Russia Nearly Impossible To Predict
More than 1,000 people were injured, mostly from broken glass, when a space rock exploded in the Earth’s atmosphere about 30-40 miles above Russia on Friday.
Franklin Institute Astronomers Say Asteroid Poses No Threat To Earth
Scientists say an asteroid will pass closer to Earth today than any other they’ve ever tracked. Though “close” is in cosmic terms, and they say it’s not related to the meteorites in Russia.
Ground Vibration Leaves Some South Jersey Residents Shaken Up
South Jersey residents felt some shaking going on Saturday but there’s no indication it was seismic in nature.
It’s Supermoon Up In The Sky!
When you look up into the sky tonight, you might see a lot more moon than you’re used to. An area expert calls it an optical illusion.
Wait a Second! Scientists Consider Ending Practice of Adding ‘Leap Seconds’
Timekeepers in Geneva, Switzerland have met to consider getting rid of the 40-year-old practice that keeps the world’s atomic clocks synchronized with the Earth’s rotation.
Aircraft Carrier-Size Asteroid Passing Close To Earth Tonight
An asteroid the size of an aircraft carrier is passing close to the Earth this evening, but amateur astronomers may have a hard time seeing it about 6:30, when it would be visible, because of the brightness of the nearly full moon.
NASA Says Failed Satellite Headed For Unknown Earthfall
Most of it will break up and burn before hitting the earth’s atmosphere, according to Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute, but an estimated 26 pieces could hit somewhere on Earth.
Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute Sends Memento Aboard Final Space Shuttle Flight
You’ll be able to see the space shuttle over Philadelphia between four and seven times each day, according to Franklin Institute’s chief astronomer, Derrick Pitts.
Franklin Institute’s Chief Astronomer Speaks On Negative Impact Of Solar Flares
The Franklin Institute’s chief astronomer, Derrick Pitts, says the most common effect of solar flares is brighter Northern Lights but they can have some negative effects too.
Make Sure To Take A Peek At The Full Moon
If you’re outside this evening, take a look at the night sky.
Despite Internet Buzz of 13th Zodiac Sign, Expert Says It’s Old Hat
When a Minneapolis astronomer pointed out to the public something that has been know to both astronomers and astrologists for a very long time, it nevertheless caused an Internet sensation.
Total Lunar Eclipse Hits During Winter Solstice
Early Tuesday morning, you’ll be able to ring in the arrival of winter with a rare sky show.
Clouds May Obstruct Views of Perseid Meteor Shower
Attention star gazers: The Perseid meteor showers peak on Thursday night.
Mechanics of Oil Spill on Display at Franklin Institute
The Gulf oil spill seems to be fading in the rearview mirror, except in the atrium of the Franklin Institute.
