This has been an astoundingly stressful week for a lot of people. Those of us not directly affected by Hurricane Katrina and the aftermath have gone about our lives with the daily news reports echoing in our minds. It’s hard to believe this is happening, and that the problems are so widespread. So, take a moment out from your websurfing to send help if you can.

Stargazing-wise, some of the nicest nights for Northern Hemisphere skywatchers (weather-wise) are coming up with the rise of September. So, take a break from whatever you’re doing and step out tonight after dark and check out the stars. The other day Astronomy Picture of the Day had a great picture of the double star Albireo in the constellation Cygnus the Swan. You can spot this beautiful double star with good binoculars or a small telescope, right at the foot of Cygnus. Check it out!