Astronomy, the evolving universe
This highly illustrated textbook for a one-semester introduction to astronomy describes the full range of the astronomical universe and how astronomers think about the cosmos. This ninth edition is more streamlined than earlier editions, presenting only that material needed by students. Each topic is presented in a patient, engaging manner, and includes the latest astronomical research.
xx, 552 pages : illustrations
9780521800907, 0521800900
809719198
Part I. Changing Conceptions of the Cosmos: 1. From chaos to cosmos; 2. The birth of cosmological models; 3. The new cosmic order; 4. The clockwork universe; 5. The birth of astrophysics; 6. Telescopes and our insight to the cosmos; 7. Einstein's vision; Part II. The Planets: Past and Present: 8. The earth: an evolving planet; 9. Moon and Mercury, Mars and Venus: terrestrial planets; 10. The Jovian planets: primitive worlds; 11. The origin and evolution of the solar system; Part III. The Universe of Stars: 12. Our sun: local star; 13. The stars as suns; 14. Starbirth and interstellar matter; 15. Star lives; 16. Star death; Part IV. Galaxies and Cosmic Evolution: 17. The evolution of the galaxy; 18. The universe of galaxies; 19. Cosmic violence; 20. Cosmic history; Appendix A. Units; Appendix B. Planetary data; Appendix C. Physical constants and astronomical data; Appendix D. Nearby stars in the Hipparcus catalogue; Appendix E. Periodic table of the elements; Expanded glossary; Index.
Includes index