DLESE description of Imagine the Universe

Imagine the Universe is dedicated to discussion about the universe, how it is evolving, and the kinds of objects and phenomena it contains. The site is intended for students age 14 and up and is a service of NASA's High-Energy Astrophysics Science Archive Research Center (HEASARC). Contained within this site are explanations of the concepts and principles used to study and understand the universe, an exploration of some of the objects that make up the universe as well as the mysteries that astronomers and astrophysicists are currently working on, and a look at the tools and methods used by scientists to study the universe. A sampling of topics includes X-ray and gamma ray technology, the nature of dark matter, black holes and white dwarfs, and lightcurves, spectra, and images. Each topic provides articles written for two levels of expertise and links to specific national standards for science and mathematics. The Teacher's Corner provides lesson plans and materials correlated to the National Standards for math and science teachers. Each month, the site features NASA news items and focus articles about NASA scientists, satellite data, instrument technology, celestial bodies, and movies related to the science of the Universe. Additional features include real satellite data, Ask a High Energy Astronomer, and links to other astronomy, physics, and science education information on the web.