Exploring Creation
in Astronomy

Astronomy is the scientific study of the physical universe outside of the Earth. This includes a wide range of objects including stars, planets, comets, nebulae, and galaxies. It contains the sub-fields of astrophysics which studies the control of matter and energy in the universe as well as cosmology which looks at the origin, current state, and ultimate fate of the universe. This is one of the oldest of the sciences which is recorded by the astronomical artifacts and accurate calendars that remain from early civilizations.

Astronomy was not able to progress as a science until the invention of the telescope and the developed understanding of the laws of gravity and motion. Currently, with the aid of radio telescopes and satellites, more information is being gathered about the mineral composition of the moons, planets, and stars. Increasingly,

The detailed study of the Earth falls primarily within the science of geology. When viewed as an entire planet, the Earth can be studied concerning interactions with other objects in the solar system. Of primary interest is the Earth and Moon relationship and the effects of the gravitational pull on each other which includes the tides found in lakes and oceans. Also of interest is the likelihood of past and future impacts by meteorites.

For mankind, the usefulness of astronomy has primarily been in making a calendar or for use in navigation. In particular, the effects on life of the Sun and Moon in regards to daily, monthly, and annual cycles of heat, light, and gravity have also been pursued. Life has not been found outside of the planet Earth and it seems unlikely as a necessary ingredient for life as we know it is liquid water which is scarce in the known universe.