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The author of Skulls in the Stars is a professor of physics, specializing in optical science, at UNC Charlotte. The blog covers topics in physics and optics, the history of science, classic pulp fantasy and horror fiction, and the surprising intersections between these areas. -
Author Archives: skullsinthestars
9 years of Skulls in the Stars
Today, it turns out, is the 9 year anniversary of my first post here at “Skulls in the Stars,” titled “Educate or Bust!” This post title, like the title of the blog itself, came from a story by Robert E. … Continue reading
Twitter Weird Science Facts, Volume 12
Time for another summary of weird science facts, as posted by me on Twitter! Read below to see the devilish secret held within this innocent-looking cup. (Which I own, btw.)
Posted in General science, Weirdscifacts
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Hiroshi Yamamoto’s MM9
I don’t recall how I came across Hiroshi Yamamoto’s fun monster-hunting novel MM9 (2007). Perhaps it was a recommendation for me on Amazon, based on my more recent forays into translated science fiction, such as Metro 2033 and Roadside Picnic? In any … Continue reading
Posted in Horror, Science fiction
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Twitter Weird Science Facts, Volume 11
Time for another round-up of weirdscifacts from Twitter! Read below to find out what this creepy 1873 woodcut is depicting.
Posted in General science, Weirdscifacts
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Twitter Weird Science Facts, Volume 10
On a personal note: still going through a rough patch of life, and so I’m still on a sort of unofficial hiatus from writing substantial posts — though I may write one here or there. Hopefully will be back and … Continue reading
Posted in General science, Weirdscifacts
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Twitter Weird Science Facts, Volume 9
Been a rough couple of weeks for me personally, and I haven’t had the time or the energy to write some solid science posts. In the meantime, please take a look at the latest weird science facts posted on twitter. … Continue reading
Posted in General science, Weirdscifacts
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Valley of the Flame, by Henry Kuttner
Henry Kuttner (1915-1958) may be referred to as “one of the most important science fiction authors you’ve never heard of.” He was incredibly prolific and versatile, writing countless short stories of science fiction, fantasy, horror, thriller, and adventure, as well … Continue reading
Posted in Adventure fiction, Weird fiction
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Twitter Weird Science Facts, Volume 8
Time for another recap of weird science facts from Twitter! Click below the fold to see how the system pictured below provided entertainment for Victorian folks.
Posted in General science, Weirdscifacts
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Optics by hot air balloon?
The first in a (hopefully) series of posts inspired by topics covered in my upcoming textbook on singular optics. Crewed balloon rides have a surprisingly large role in the history of science. The first untethered balloon flight was performed in Paris on November … Continue reading
Posted in Optics, Physics
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Some more skydiving videos!
While I’m working on some new physics blog posts, here’s a couple of more skydiving videos that I took with a GoPro!
Posted in Personal, Sports
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Skulls in the Stars 