Product Description

Astrophysics is a subject that is often - with some justification - regarded as extremely difficult, requiring at least degree-level mathematics as a prerequisite to its understanding. Consequently, many amateur astronomers just don't bother, and miss out on the fascinating fundamentals of the subject, and often on an understanding of exactly what they are observing.

Mike Inglis' quantitative approach to astrophysics cuts through all the incomprehensible mathematics, and explains all aspects of astrophysics in simple terms.

A unique feature of this book is the way that example objects for practical observation are given at every stage, so that practical astronomers can go and look at the objected or objects under discussion, using only commercial amateur equipment.

Customer Reviews (8)

Good but marred by many errors
The book promises to present a treatment of astrophysics which can be understood at a reasonably deep level while keeping the mathematics in the background. To a large extent, the author succeeds in doing this. The main text has almost no mathematics, while for those who wish to go a little deeper into the subject matter, there are boxed paragraphs which explain the topic in more detail.All in all, this is a good book to read, but unfortunately there are many typographical mistakes, which can in some cases confuse the reader. For instance, in box 1.3 on p8, the word "distance" in the first line of the third paragraph from the end should read "luminosity". In Table 1.2 on p9, the very last entry in the right hand column should be 100,000,000 and not 10,000,000.On p19, the statement that temperature is proportional to temperature is incorrect.It is, as the author states a few lines above, proportional to the fourth power of temperature, which is not the same thing.Clearly the author is trying to simplify matters for the non-mathematical reader, but this is not license to make incorrect statements.Many of the coordinates given for various objects are incorrect.An observer using a goto telescope and the author's coordinates to point to the famous double-double in Lyra would end up with the telescope pointing deep into the southern hemisphere.Same comment about 61 Cygni, NGC 891 etc, etc.
If the author is contemplating a second edition, it should be thoroughly proof-read before publication. I would also suggest that footnotes, rather than end of chapter notes would be less disruptive when reading the book.

It is a pity that a book of such promise looks to have been produced in a rush.I still have no hesitation in recommending it, but the reader should not necessarily accept everything in it as correct.

Simple, brief and enjoyable.
The Universe is full of Wonders which many of us may never be aware of, comprehend or fully appreciate. For many, the scientific methods and tools used to learn and understand the Universe seem to be out of the grasp. Unfortunately, even dedicated Amateur Astronomers are susceptible to this myth as many may believe that these scientific discoveries and methods belong to a special kind of people in science institutes and collages. This book comes to prove that it's possible to learn how to unravel and understand some of the universe's hidden treasures and mysteries without literally go out on a limb.
You start by understanding the Measurements of Star Magnitudes, Luminosity, and Temperature and even get a grasp on the most important tool used by Astronomers the popular tool HR Diagram. Know how to classify stars and understand their formation and demise. Learn how to appreciate the beauty of Clusters, Nebulas and the power of Supernova's and Black holes. I have to admit, there is a bit of math in there, you can easily follow its logic and apply it to real life examples and get the results that previously looked like Gobbledygook belonging to the realm of Mad Scientists. Its not easy reading, you do need to read it carefully, and reread it again and again to gain the level of understanding required to appreciate its contents. There are many books out there on Astronomy, some are quiet rich in content and literally quiet heavy, but this one is simple, brief and enjoyable.

Astrophysics IS easy!
I used to love day-dreaming about space when I was a kid. This book makes me feel that sense of wonder and amazement again - and I can understand most of it! I spent a day at the planetarium in New York, and I felt like I could deliver my own lecture to the audience. And the best thing is - I bought this for my son, and we share our interest in and awe for the universe.

Intended to help the amateur astronomer take a step into the physics of astronomy
This is a great little book. Whenever I give a talk on my astrophysics research (in high energy cosmic rays and neutrinos) to the amateur astronomers, I mention this book as a good step for expanding their knowledge of the science underlying their hobby. Professional and amateur astronomy are a long distance apart, though many scientists got interested in science first from looking at the skies. This book helps bridge the gap somewhat.

Got your telescope?Your binoculars?Your two eyes?Well, point them UP
Astrophysics (or at least a general introduction to it) really IS easy with this friendly book geared toward amateur astronomers.An introduction to the heavens, cobbled together with science and telescope viewing tips, doesn't sound much like a romantic outing but believe me, halfway through the book you'll begin lusting for a telescope.The author's enthusiasm is infectious. The text proceeds incrementally, and basic concepts are repeated often, so you'll be dropping terms like "Cepheid variable", "Roche lobe" and "type II supernova" at the breakfast table before you know it.

A word, though, about the Kindle addition.ANY text like this comes with pictures, diagrams, etc---and the Kindle (at least the small one) just isn't the right medium for them.I found myself frustrated often as I pressed sys, wormed the cursor over pictures, then sat very still trying to enlarge.It's not the Kindle's fault--I knew it'd be a problem, and now I don't have this great book on paper.Next time I'll remember to confine my Kindle purchaces strictly to novels. ... Read more

Product Description
In a unique collaboration, Nature Publishing Group and Institute of Physics Publishing have published the most extensive and comprehensive reference work in astronomy and astrophysics in both print and online formats. Unfortunately the print edition is currently out of print, but the regularly updated web remains active and can be found at www.ency-astro.com. This unique resource covers the entire field of astronomy and astrophysics and this online version includes the full text of over 2,750 articles, plus sophisticated search and retrieval functionality, links to the primary literature, and is frequently updated with new material. An active editorial team, headed by the Encyclopaedia's editor-in-chief, Maul Murdin, oversee the continual commissioning, reviewing and loading of new and revised content. The Encyclopaedia's authority is assured by editorial and advisory boards drawn from the world's foremost astronomers and astrophysicists. This first class resource will be an essential source of information for undergraduates, graduate students, researchers and seasoned professionals, as well as for committed amateurs, librarians and lay people wishing to consult the definitive astronomy and astrophysics reference work. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A must have for any student, scholor or fan of Astronomy
This is literally an encyclopedic work containing articles on every topic relating to Astronomy and Astrophysics. With contributions from over 8,000 astronomers and astrophysicists, this title is a must have for any serious collection of Astronomy materials.

Master Piece
It is the greattest collection on astronomical sciences I have ever seen. These 4 volumes contains 3670 pages, thousands of articles,written by lots of contributors. You can find handly information about astronomy and astrophysics in this encyclopedia. It is a really master piece of astronomical work, covers 30 subject areas. If it could contain information on recent developments in cosmology would be excellent. ... Read more

Product Description

This book contains the expanded lecture notes of the 32nd Saas-Fee Advanced Course. The three contributions present the central themes in modern research on the cold universe, ranging from cold objects at large distances to the physics of dust in cold clouds.

Product Description
This focused, advanced undergraduate text provides broad coverage of astronomy and astrophysics with a strong emphasis on physics. Many researchers, faculty, and graduate students use this book as a reference. This text has an algebra and trigonometry prerequisite, but calculus is preferred.Features: * "Concept Applications" are fully worked-out, in-chapter problems that focus on an important concept found within that chapter. * "Key Equations and Concepts" neatly summarize the important equations and concepts found in each chapter.New to this edition: * Many new problems have been added, most 3rd Edition problems remain. * Physics Prelude serves as preview and preorganizer of the physics at a level appropriate to the book and the course. * Reorganization of Part 3--Chapters on stellar evolution are now consecutive. * Key new astronomical material further enhances the text. * "Hale-Bopp Comet Update" has been added after Chapter 26. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

There are better books to be had for an intro astronomy class
Obviously Physical Universe: An Introduction to Astronomy (Series of Books in Astronomy) is the standard by which all introductory astronomy books must be measured. This book is more expensive, less clear, has more typos and even glaring errors. But it's newer, and more "up to date." I'd explain to the students that we're going to use an old book and I'd fill in newer research as needed as we go along. It's not as if there are fundamental changes to how stars work, Galaxies form, or how telescopes work. (Especially not at an introductory level.)

Book review
It was very good, reliable and the product is what I expected to be. Thank you for the safe shipping, I wish the shipping was a little faster though.

Not a bad reference book for astrophysics students
This book is an ok reference book, if you've already seen the material in the book.The price is way too high.Whatever you do don't pay 180 bucks for this book. The preliminary section is weirdly way harder than the main text of the book. I had as my freshman astrophysics course text book and nearly dropped the course because the prelimary section was so scary. My biggest problem is the book uses MKS not CGS units. This would make the book more acessible to the reader with a physics (but no astronomy) background, but only does a disservice to the reader who wishes to use this book as a bridge to more advanced astronomical literature.

Intro to Astronomy
Nicely written textbook for the first year student in astronomy and astrophysics.Clearly written.

An excellent introductory book in astronomy/astrophysics
I used this book in an independent study class in astronomy and astrophysics while I was an undergraduate.With the exception of the some errors in the equations in the opacity section I found this book to be clearly written and not too difficult.You will need to know your college physics and some math but that should be expected since this is not a descriptive text.If you want a descriptive astronomy text search elsewhere, if you want an introductory astrophysics text this is a good choice. ... Read more

Product Description
Astronomy, astrophysics and space research have witnessed an explosive development over the last few decades. The new observational potential offered by space stations and the availability of powerful and highly specialized computers have revealed novel aspects of the fascinating realm of galaxies, quasars, stars and planets. The present completely revised 5th edition of The New Cosmos provides ample evidence of these dramatic developments. In a concise presentation, which assumes only a modest prior knowledge of mathematics and physics, the book gives a coherent introduction to the entire field of astronomy and astrophysics. At the same time it takes into account the art of observation and the fundamental ideas behind their interpretation. Like its predecessors, this edition of The New Cosmos will provide new insight and enjoyment not only to students and researchers in the fields of astronomy, physics and earth sciences, but also to a wide range of interested amateurs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The New Cosmos, Intro Astronomy & Astrophysics
This book meets my expectations in that it covers a wide variety of topics, in some detail.I wanted to take a "step up" regarding technical detail, and this book is what I was looking for.The only drawback is the occasional heavy mathematics, but this is something I can grow into, and is not essential to enjoying the book.

applies physics to astronomy
As a physics undergrad, an earlier edition of this book was one of our texts in 1982. The latest edition continues the tradition of providing a lucid description of the basic physical principles underlying astronomic phenomena.

Hence, you are shown how the temperature in a star can rise, because as its atoms fall towards each other under mutual gravity, the conservation of energy leads to an increase in kinetic energy and hence temperature. Enough to eventually trigger ignition of nuclear reactions. Well, provided the initial mass is large enough. Otherwise one gets brown dwarfs or gas giants like Jupiter.

Other subjects like spectroscopy are also derived from basic principles. It's nice to see how we can get the surface temperature of a star by looking at its spectrum and seeing which lines exist. And the strength of the magnetic field on its surface by the amount of splitting in certain lines. And even the rate of rotation by the minute Doppler shifts.

The evolution of the elements, from nuclear fusion, is well done. The text refers to the classic papers, including B2FH (Burbidge, Burbidge, Fowler and Hoyle). Other key contributors like Chandrasekhar get their fair mention.

A very good introduction to astronomy and astrophysics
It's not the flashiest text, I agree.But I think it can be used for a first course on astronomy and astrophysics (for students with some basic calculus and physics).

It covers everything:Celestial mechanics, the Sun and its planetary system, electromagnetic radiation, telescopes and detectors, astrophysics of individual stars, star clusters, interstellar matter, the Milky Way, galaxies, clusters of galaxies, cosmology, and cosmogony.But the style is concise, and there isn't enough space to cover it all in detail.It requires careful reading, and if used for a class, some topics probably need to be skipped or amplified by an instructor.

What would I add to it?Not much.Maybe a little more on planetary dynamics and magnetospheres, since I happen to find them interesting.Perhaps more material on relativity.

Solid astronomical textbook
This book may not be the most flashy in illustrations and will require that you actually read whole sections instead of just browsing the highlights in sidebars. But it does contain a lot of solid information going into more detail on several topics than other introductory textbooks. It is targeted rather at the graduating physics student than at an interested lay person.

German Science
Being a German-American, I thought this book would get to the rudiments of astrophysics - and it does. Unfortunately, I seem to fall asleep before reading a page or two. The book is full of information ... in TEXT form. The illustrations offered are dry and somewhat difficult to extract information from. The methods of problem solving assume that you have a good handle on the topics discussed already (not for introductory Astrophysicists). If you are in need of a book to give straight to the point explanations, and fundamental equations - you've found it! Try reading at a coffee shop, though - and no decaf! ... Read more

Product Description
This volume is a thorough introduction to modern ideas on cosmology and on the physical basis of the general theory of relativity. The various theories and ideas in 'big bang' cosmology are discussed in detail, providing an insight into current problems. The book is written at an intermediate level. Beyond that of the many elementary books on cosmology, and provides an introduction to the more advanced works and research literature. ... Read more

Product Description
G. Beutler's Methods of Celestial Mechanics is a coherent textbook for students as well as an excellent reference for practitioners. The first volume gives a thorough treatment of celestial mechanics and presents all the necessary mathematical details that a professional would need. The reader will appreciate the well-written chapters on numerical solution techniques for ordinary differential equations, as well as that on orbit determination. In the second volume applications to the rotation of earth and moon, to artificial earth satellites and to the planetary system are presented. The author addresses all aspects that are of importance in high-tech applications, such as the detailed gravitational fields of all planets and the earth, the oblateness of the earth, the radiation pressure and the atmospheric drag. The concluding part of this monumental treatise explains and details state-of-the-art professional and thoroughly-tested software for celestial mechanics. The CD-ROM accompanying Volume II enables readers to employ this software themselves and also serves as to illustrate and reinforce the related theoretical concepts. ... Read more

Product Description
Understanding star formation is one of key fields in present-day astrophysics. This book treats a wide variety of physical processes involved, as well as the main observational discoveries. Key points are discussed in detail. Present time star formation in our galaxy is emphasized, because the most detailed observations are available for this case. The book presents a comparison of the various scenarios for star formation, discusses the basic physics underlying each one, and follows in detail the history of a star from its initial state in the interstellar gas to its final state as a condensed object in equilibrium. Both theoretical and observational evidence to support the validity of the general evolutionary path are presented, and methods for comparing the two are emphasized.The author is a recognized expert in calculations of the evolution of protostars, the structure and evolution of disks, and stellar evolution in general. This book will be of value to graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics as well as to active researchers in the field. ... Read more

Product Description

The recent years have seen breathtaking progress in technology, especially in the receiver and digital technologies relevant for radio astronomy, which has at the same time advanced to shorter wavelengths.

This is the updated and completely revised 5th edition of the most used introductory text in radio astronomy. It presents a unified treatment of the entire field from centimeter to sub-millimeter wavelengths. Topics covered include instruments, sensitivity considerations, observational methods and interpretations of the data recorded with both single dishes and interferometers. This text is useful to both students and experienced practicing astronomers. Besides making major updates and additions throughout the book, the authors have re-organized a number of chapters to more clearly separate basic theory from rapidly evolving practical aspects.

Further, problem sets have been added at the end of each chapter.

Customer Reviews (2)

A "must have" for RA. business
this is one of the fundamental books you have to have in your library... if you are a "Radio Astronomy" guy (Engineer, astronomer,etc). However sometimes it can be a little bit complex (compared to its newest 5th edition), but still an excellent book.

One of the best introductions to the field
Although Rohlfs and Wilson have only made perfunctory changesbetween this and the previous edition of the book, it still stands asone of the best introductions to the field of radio astronomy.It still doesn't cover some topics (such as calibration techniques) as well as I would have liked, and Kraus' _Radio Astronomy_ (2e) does a better job (IMHO) on the mathematical details as well as specific applications.Because of its length, the topics of millimeter and submillimeter astronomy are not covered in as much as centimeter wavelengths.However despite all this, the book is highly readable for a student in the field, and is invaluable to have on one's bookshelf, or even to take observing (for those who only dabble in radio astronomy). ... Read more

Product Description

This book provides an overview of many of the dramatic recent developments in the fields of astronomy, cosmology and fundamental physics. Topics include observations of the structure in the cosmic background radiation, evidence for an accelerating Universe, the extraordinary concordance in the fundamental parameters of the Universe coming from these and other diverse observations, the search for dark matter candidates, evidence for neutrino oscillations, space experiments on fundamental physics, and discoveries of extrasolar planets. This book will be useful for researchers and graduate students who wish to have a broad overview of the current developments in these fields.

Product Description
This book utilizes the author's twenty years of research experience to describe conclusions on the nature of quasars, their distribution, and their evolution in the universe. Concentrating on observational astrophysics rather than theory, Quasar Astronomy serves as both a summary of what is known about quasars and a guide to research methods and unanswered questions. After reviewing the cosmological framework and necessary equations, the book discusses all aspects of observed quasar properties. Techniques are summarized for analysing quasar data obtained with various kinds of telescopes and extensive references are given to recent publications. The major original contributions in chapters 5 and 6 deal with the distribution of quasars in spacetime, a subject extensively discussed in the current research literature. The book not only summarizes existing results from various techniques but refers to the potentialities of new instruments that are presently being developed, resulting in a unified, up-to-date and practical account of the astronomy of quasars. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

a must have
want to learn Quasar Astronomy, then get this one. Powerful and detailed, the best one on the market. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the definitive treatment of the phenomenology of galaxies--a clear and comprehensive volume that takes full account of the extraordinary recent advances in the field. The book supersedes the classic text Galactic Astronomy that James Binney wrote with Dimitri Mihalas, and complements Galactic Dynamics by Binney and Scott Tremaine. It will be invaluable to researchers and is accessible to any student who has a background in undergraduate physics.

The book draws on observations both of our own galaxy, the Milky Way, and of external galaxies. The two sources are complementary, since the former tends to be highly detailed but difficult to interpret, while the latter is typically poorer in quality but conceptually simpler to understand. Binney and Merrifield introduce all astronomical concepts necessary to understand the properties of galaxies, including coordinate systems, magnitudes and colors, the phenomenology of stars, the theory of stellar and chemical evolution, and the measurement of astronomical distances. The book's core covers the phenomenology of external galaxies, star clusters in the Milky Way, the interstellar media of external galaxies, gas in the Milky Way, the structure and kinematics of the stellar components of the Milky Way, and the kinematics of external galaxies.

Throughout, the book emphasizes the observational basis for current understanding of galactic astronomy, with references to the original literature. Offering both new information and a comprehensive view of its subject, it will be an indispensable source for professionals, as well as for graduate students and advanced undergraduates. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Clearly written; NOT out of date; Very broad & detailed Overview of Galaxies
Some reviewers say they don't understand the math or the concepts in this book; and have therefore given it bad reviews. In actual fact, this is a widely recommended and widely used university-level textbook about galaxies for those people with a physics/algebra orientation; people who understand equations, graphs, and detailed technical diagrams. So why criticize this book for being too technical? Furthermore, this book is NOT out-of-date; as a regular reader of the Astrophysical Journal,I assure you that this book is not dated, despite the 1998 publication date...it emphasizes the basic core of securely-known ideas about galaxies!
This textbook is a remarkably deep and wide-ranging overview; it covers most of the significant topics within extragalactic astronomy, in great detail, at a level similar to that of scientific papers which are currently being written on galaxies. Thus, if you want to reach that level of knowledge where you fully understand what professional astronomers are doing NOW, get yourself a copy of Binney & Merrifield.
Warning! A mid-level amateur astronomer will find this book much too hard, as it is nominally at the
"upper-undergraduate through to professional scientist" level. However, a very-persistent advanced amateur astronomer (knowing some physics) can understand this book's numerous long sections of cogent descriptive material that have only few equations intruding. This book is NOT crammed with equations, and most of the equations are simple enough for someone with a year of university maths. The authors wisely resort to graphs, in order to make physical/mathematical concepts more accessible to "the lesser brethren".
In summary, this book is a comprehensive view of galaxies; so reading it is an efficient way to teach yourself much of what is securely known about galaxies by professional astronomers. The alternative method of obtaining expert galaxian knowledge is infinitely more time-consuming; looking up concepts and ideas piecemeal, then stitching together scattered bits & pieces of information. This heavy-duty work is also a superb backup reference for really serious astronomers; many times, my heavily laden shelves of"galaxies books" contained no answer when I needed a clear explanation of something in the Astrophysical Journal...but Binney and Merrifield often had what I needed.

Basic knowledge
Published in 1998 the text is somewhat dated in this fast moving field. It does, however, provide a sound knowledge base required for understanding recent discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics. Filled with charts, data and formulae it's for the casual reader.

A standard in the field
This book is a standard reference that every galactic & stellar astronomer must own. It is ideal for a PhD student to learn from. This book is far better than it's companion Galactic Dynamics by Binney & Tremaine. Much more readable and digestible. It is however less rigorous in its mathematical treatment of the dynamics in the galaxy... obviously.

Confused, inaccurate, and dated
As one of the major textbooks of astrophysics intended for serious students, I find this very disappointing. It contains much that is inaccurate and dated, and important sections, for example on stellar structure and evolution, are confused and lacking detail.

A mine of information for undergrad (and grad) students
"Galactic Astronomy" treat a lot of astrophysics topics (galaxies, Milky Way, stellar evolution and more) with precision and clarity. The complete index allows rapid search. A good book for the first approach to astrophysics problem, not exhaustive for all the subject treated. ... Read more

Product Description
Galactic and Extragalactic Radio Astronomy is a fundamental text for graduate students and professional astronomers and covers all aspects of radio astronomy beyond the solar system. Each chapter is written by a renowned expert in the field and contains a review of a particular area of radio astronomy and presents the latest observations and interpretations as well as an extensive view of the literature (as of 1988). Topics covered include: galactic continuum emission, HII regions, the diffuse interstellar medium, interstellar molecules, astronomical masers, neutral hydrogen, the galactic center, radio stars, supernova remnants, pulsars, extragalactic hydrogen, radio galaxies and quasars, the microwave background, and cosmological radio sources. ... Read more

Product Description
Presented in two volumes, The Physics of Astrophysics is ideally suited for a year-long astrophysics course for university seniors and first-year graduate students. This second volume deals with the interactions of matter and radiation, and electromagnetic fields of macroscopic scale in both the strongly collisional and collisionless regimes. It covers such fields as single-fluid theory, including radiative processes; waves, shocks, and fronts; magnetohydrodynamics and plasma physics; as well as their applications to such topics as self-gravitating spherical masses, accretion disks, spiral density waves, star formation, and dynamo theory. Over two hundred photos, line drawings, and tables amplify the major points of the text. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent
I was very dissapointed to see a rating on this book of only two little stars, so I've decided to express my opinion as well, for I believe this book deserves a much better qualification.The book gives an excellent overview in many of the most important aspects of the theory of gasdynamics as applied to astrophysics. The clarity with which the authorexpresses the underlying physical phenomena is amazing. You even find it"easy" the way in which fluid equations are deduced by taking thedifferent momenta of the statistical distribution function of the fluid, orwhy a supersonic flow governed by a hyperbolic PDE is converted to asubsonic one governed by an elliptic PDE after passage through a shock wavein the stationary case. It's true that it doesn't go into too much detail;if it would, the book should have been at least of the size of the"Gravitation" (by Misner, Thorne and Wheeler) and it wouldn'teasily fit anywhere. However, the references to excellent books on all thetouched subjects have been meticulously selected and should be consulted byanyone interested in expanding the knowledge on any specific topic of theones covered by the book. And for your curiosity, if you want to knowwhether Mr. Shu is a competent astrophysicist or not, just go to theAstronomical Data Service online and search for his name. You'll discover quite a big number of high quality papers on different subjects... ... Read more

Product Description
This is a modern treatment of the physics of the stars. The book starts with a chapter on stellar fundamentals, and then the story of the lives and deaths of the stars begins. The authors take us on a journey from the sun, a comparatively young star, to supernovae, manifestations of dramatic death. On the way, the reader, advanced undergraduate or beginning postgraduate, is presented with such topics as stellar evolution, mass loss and stellar wind, the hydrodynamics of stellar interiors, variability, and solar and stellar activity. This comprehensive but rigorous text, building on the theoretical and observational advances of recent years, including, for instance, a discussion of astrophysical theory in the light of Supernova 1987A, will become required reading for all serious students of astronomy. ... Read more

Product Description

This is the story of radio astronomy, of how radio waves are generated by stars, supernova, quasars, colliding galaxies, and by the very beginnings of the universe itself. This revised book provides an update on the state of radio astronomy and those sections no longer regarded as cutting edge have been removed. With this book, aimed at a lay audience, you learn what astronomers are doing with those huge dishes. With each of these observatories, the scientists collect and analyze their data, "listening" to the radio signals from space, in order to learn what is out there, and perhaps even if someone else may be listening as well.

Customer Reviews (3)

Recommended for everyone
This is a fascinating book for the layman. The book present the precious history of what we know about the universe through the study of the radio signals. The author cover all the aspects of this field of astronomy, from the antennas used in the capture of those faint signals (thanks to interferometry) to the explanation of every single known source of radio waves in the vast universe, which include interstellar gas, pulsars, galaxies, black holes and quasars. Also the author cover some of the new radio telescope in construction such as the ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter Array) project in the north of Chile, which by the way already have some engineers in a one-year training in the Unites States (I know two of them). This book makes you think about life in the universe, the vast of it even for light itself and the intriguing, slow and deadly way of its behavior. Last thing I want to write is that this is the first time I read a comment about some interesting phenomenon in theoretical research and is that if you know too much, you simply reduce your chances to contribute with a new discovery or innovation --- that is so true.

A quick look at a very deep subject
I used this book as an additional source for a graduate level class. We didn't like standard text and this book was a much better read. However, it was very light with almost no math involved. If I was reviewing this text as a general reader I probably would give it one more star.

The author has a lot of negative things to say about SETI. In that section of the book the number of typos suddenly jumps up. It's almost like you can see him getting red in the face and pounding the keyboard when he was writing this section. Later, he completely ignores the new Allen Telescope Array - an instrument for both SETI and radio astronomy uses - but spends a few pages on ALMA - an array that will be fantastic when ready but it will be a few more years.

The best parts of the book are the anecdotes even though some seem irrelevant to the book's intent. For the graduate student, better books are available (possibly Rohlfs and Wilson). For the casual reader, this book won't help much more than a standard introduction to astronomy text (eg.,Paschoff and Filippenko; Chaisson and McMillan; Fraknoi, Morrison and Wolff).

Intriguing and Fascinating
Gerrit L. Verschuur shares some of the knowledge he has gained as an impeccable radio astronomer. It's a powerful read for the science minded, especially since he uncovers some of his most recent intriguing findings which may soon turn the scientific community upside down! ... Read more

Product Description

After describing cosmic gamma-ray production and absorption, the instrumentation used in gamma-ray astronomy is explained. The main part of the book deals with astronomical results, including the somewhat surprising result that the gamma-ray sky is continuously changing.

Customer Reviews (1)

Great But Dated
This book was a great introduction, even if necessarily behind the latest in gamma astronomy. Read it for a good foundation and then hit the web. ... Read more

Product Description

"Astrophysics Updates" is intended to serve the information needs of professional astronomers and postgraduate students about areas of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology that are rich and active research spheres. Observational methods and the latest results of astronomical research are presented as well as their theoretical foundations and interrelations. The contributed commissioned articles are written by leading exponents in a format that will appeal to professional astronomers and astrophysicists who are interested in topics outside their own specific areas of research. This collection of timely reviews may also attract the interest of advanced amateur astronomers seeking scientifically rigorous coverage.

Product Description

This book focuses on the formulation of mathematical models for the light curves of eclipsing binary stars, and on the algorithms for generating such models. Since information gained from binary systems provides much of what we know of the masses, luminosities, and radii of stars, such models are acquiring increasing importance in studies of stellar structure and evolution. As in other areas of science, the computer revolution has given many astronomers tools that previously only specialists could use; anyone with access to a set of data can now expect to be able to model it. This book will provide astronomers, both amateur and professional, with a guide for specifying an astrophysical model for a set of observations, selecting an algorithm to determine the parameters of the model and estimating the errors of the parameters. It is written for readers with knowledge of basic calculus and linear algebra; appendices cover mathematical details on such matters as optimization, coordinate systems, and specific models. While emphasizing the physical and mathematical framework, the discussion remains close to the problems if actual implementation. It begins with an overview of the problem and a discussion of the observational data that form the basis of any model. The treatment then turns to the direct problem (computing the light curve and other observables from the a given set of parameters) and then to the indirect problem (determining a best-fit set of parameters from the data). The book concludes with chapters on specific models and approaches and the authors’ views on the structure of future light-curve programs.

The second edition consists of corrections of errors. There a is new physics in light curve models mentioned. Inclusive are distance fitting and implications on T1. Other improvements within the 2E: third stars - dynamical effects, spot variation over various epochs and simultaneous fitting, new features in the WD program, new applications in astronomy and astrophysics, transits in extra solar planetary systems, planetary simulation work, GAIA project - analyzing huge amounts of data, light curve analysis for non-eclipsing binary star people, new interesting literature cases, Milone’s papers, other interesting papers, new (software) developments in the eclipsing binary community, PHOEBE, Binary Maker 3.0 and finally ephemerides from whole light and velocity curves.