Description
The sights in our Solar System are dynamic reminders of our planet's position as part of a larger neighbourhood. Study the ever-changing face of the Moon, watch the steady march of the planets against the stars, witness the thrill of a meteor shower, or the memory of a once-in-a-generation comet.
In a few short generations, scientists have taken us from wondering about the nature of the Solar System to exploring every corner of it with advanced robotic probes, and inexpensive but powerful telescopes have become ubiquitous, allowing all of us to follow in the footsteps of Galileo as explorers.
In this guide, you will learn how the Solar System came to be understood - from ancient theories of its mechanics to the modern age of remote sensing, We'll then look at the significant targets for amateur astronomers - the Moon, Sun and planets - to see how they can be explored by eye and with telescopes. We'll discuss some of the more obscure but fascinating worlds, including asteroids and dwarf planets, and dazzling special events, such as meteor showers, conjunctions, occultations and eclipses.
About the Author
The Royal Observatory, Greenwich is the home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Prime Meridian of the World, making it the official starting point for each new day and year.
Tom Kerss F.R.A.S. is an astronomer and the author of numerous best selling books about the night sky for both adults and children. Having worked at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich for more than six years, he now shares his passion for the stars with people all over the world, delivering courses, podcasts and media interviews. Tom loves nothing more than to seek out the darkest and most beautiful skies on Earth, but he does most of his stargazing from his home in London. Find out more about Tom's projects at tomkerss.co.uk
Reviews
"... such an informative and concise read that any beginner would be wise to grab a copy." BBC Sky at Night Magazine
"High praise must be given for the photographs and diagrams that appear on each page: beautifully clear, accompanied with simple but to-the-point text... How he has packed so much in I do not know, but whatever his secret, it works." BBC Sky at Night Magazine
Book Information
ISBN 9780008532611
Author Tom Kerss
Format Paperback
Page Count 112
Imprint Collins
Publisher HarperCollins Publishers
Weight(grams) 180g
Dimensions(mm) 210mm * 148mm * 8mm