It is said that astronomy is one of the few remaining fields in which amateurs can make a real contribution to science, and nowhere is this more true than in the field of meteors and meteorites.

Although meteors are isolated and unpredictable, it is possible to predict when meteor showers - usually associated with old comets - are due; they last a couple of days, during which many meteors can be observed in a single night. Equipment for watching, counting and even measuring meteors can range from the simplest (a chair) to sophisticated all-sky cameras.

What is unique about meteors in astronomical observation is that many survive entry into the Earth's atmosphere and impact the ground - the only easily-analysed extraterrestrial material available to science.

What is unique about Richard Norton's book is that it is both a field guide to observing meteors, and also a field guide to locating, preparing and analysing meteorites. In addition to giving the reader information about observing techniques for meteors, this book also provides a fully detailed account of the types of meteorites, how and where to find them, how to prepare and analyse them. It is thus the only complete book on the subject available at present.

Reviews

From the reviews:

"The average age of most meteorites is 4.6 billion years. ... This groundbreaking book ... is the most concise guide to date on every aspect of this fascinating field. The authors combine the collecting, study and hunting of meteorites with good advice on equipment and identification techniques. ... it is equally suited to beginner and expert with well-illustrated page-by-page descriptions of each meteorite sub-type. ... This is an impressive book containing everything you need to know about these remarkable cosmic treasures." (Mark Ford, BBC Sky at Night, September, 2008)

"This practical reference source ... goes beyond the well-illustrated guide to help meteorite hunters identify their prize (with detailed color photos), and includes the astronomical context needed to understand meteorites and their Earth-bound predecessors, meteoroids. ... A mineral glossary and references (print and online) supplement the text. ... Summing Up: Recommended. General audiences and all undergraduate students." (L.R. Johnston, Choice, Vol. 46 (5), January, 2009)

"This is a magnificent book and a must for anyone who is interested in our solar system and its formation. ... A wonderful segment is included on what meteorites look like in thin section and it is a glorious world indeed. ... If you do, or if you wish to find you own, or if you just wish to learn more about the environment our Earth inhabits, you will want a copy of this outstanding book." (Amazon, November, 2008)

2009 Best Reference Work-

"Field Guide to Meteors and Meteorites" by O. Richard Norton and Lawrence A. Chitwood received the Mary B. Ansari Best Reference Work Award. The book is both a guide to observing meteors and a practical handbook for meteorite hunters. Abundant information on locating, preparing, and analyzing meteorites is presented. The work's comprehensive treatment, fine color illustrations, and accessibility to a wide audience werewinning points in the selection committee's decision. "Meteorite information has been scattered, hard to find and difficult to interpret - sort of like meteorites themselves," commented committee member Dennis Trombatore. "The Field Guide is a powerful reference tool. It will inspire, enlighten and inform everyone who uses it.""

Book Information
ISBN 9781848001565
Author O. Richard Norton
Format Paperback
Page Count 287
Imprint Springer London Ltd
Publisher Springer London Ltd