Month: April 2021

300 Astronomical Objects

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Author: Jamie Wilkins and Robert Dunn

A visual reference to the universe

300 Astronomical Objects is a handy and comprehensive reference to the most interesting celestial objects. It takes readers on a photographic tour through the galaxy, from its solar core to its outer limits, stopping to view all the highlights and give the very latest data about the universe. Convenient sidebars with each entry provide up-to-date facts and figures on every object, including mass, magnitude, density, radius, rotation period, and surface and core temperatures.
An annotated cross-section of the object enhances this information, and a full-colour photograph brings the object to life. Additional spreads bring together and explain related objects and phenomena. For example, the corresponding pages for the sun include solar power, sunspots and solar flares.
Others examples include: Mercury and its surface; The asteroid belt and 433 Eros; Jupiter and its moons, including Io, Europa and Callista; Uranus and its rings and moons, including Ariel and Titania; Outer belts and comets, such as Halley’s comet, and the Deep; Impact mission; Space telescopes, including the International Space Station. 300 Astronomical Objects is a beautiful and handy reference for the amateur astronomer.

Astronomy 101

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Author: Brent Stewart

From Sun and Moon to Wormholes and Warp Drive, Key Theories, Discoveries, and Facts about the Universe.

Explore the curiosities of our galaxy! Too often, textbooks obscure the beauty and wonder of outer space with tedious discourse that even Galileo would oppose. Astronomy 101 cuts out the boring details and lengthy explanations, and instead, gives you a lesson in astronomy that keeps you engaged as you discover what’s hidden beyond our starry sky.
From the Big Bang and nebulae to the Milky Way and Sir Isaac Newton, this celestial primer is packed with hundreds of entertaining astronomy facts, charts, and photographs you won’t be able to get anywhere else. So whether you’re looking to unravel the mystery behind black holes, or just want to learn more about your favourite planets, Astronomy 101 has all the answers–even the ones you didn’t know you were looking for.

Bad Astronomy

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Author: Phil Plait

Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing “Hoax””Bad Astronomy is just plain good! Philip Plait clears up every misconception on astronomy and space you never knew you suffered from.” –Stephen Maran, Author of Astronomy for Dummies and editor of The Astronomy and Astrophysics Encyclopaedia
“Thank the cosmos for the bundle of star stuff named Philip Plait, who is the world s leading consumer advocate for quality science in space and on Earth. This important contribution to science will rest firmly on my reference library shelf, ready for easy access the next time an astrologer calls.” –Dr. Michael Shermer, Publisher of Skeptic magazine, monthly columnist for Scientific American, and author of The Borderlands of Science
“Philip Plait has given us a readable, erudite, informative, useful, and entertaining book. Bad Astronomy is Good Science. Very good science…” –James “The Amazing” Randi, President, James Randi Educational Foundation, and author of An Encyclopaedia of Claims, Frauds, and Hoaxes of the Occult and Supernatural
“Bad Astronomy is a fun read. Plait is wonderfully witty and educational as he debunks the myths, legends, and ‘conspiracies that abound in our society. ‘The Truth Is Out There’ and it’s in this book. I loved it!” –Mike Mullane, Space Shuttle astronaut and author of Do Your Ears Pop in Space?

Astronomy Hacks

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Author: Robert and Barbara Thompson

Why use the traditional approach to study the stars when you can turn computers, handheld devices, and telescopes into out-of-this-world stargazing tools? Whether you’re a first timer or an advanced hobbyist, you’ll find Astronomy Hacks both useful and fun. From upgrading your optical finder to photographing stars, this book is the perfect cosmic companion. This handy field guide covers the basics of observing, and what you need to know about tweaking, tuning, adjusting, and tricking out a ‘scope. Expect priceless tips and tools for using a Dobsonian Telescope, the large-aperture telescope you can inexpensively build in your garage. Get advice on protocols involved with using electronics including in dark places without ruining the party.                                                                                            “Astronomy Hacks” begins the space exploration by getting you set up with the right equipment for observing and admiring the stars in an urban setting. Along for the trip are first rate tips for making most of observations. The hacks show you how to: Dark-Adapt Your Notebook Computer Choose the Best Binocular Clean Your Eyepieces and Lenses Safely Upgrade Your Optical Finder Photograph the Stars with Basic Equipment The O’Reilly Hacks series has reclaimed the term “hacking” to mean innovating, unearthing, and creating shortcuts, gizmos, and gears. With these hacks, you don’t dream it-you do it–and “Astronomy Hacks” brings space dreams to life. The book is essential for anyone who wants to get the most out of an evening under the stars and have memorable celestial adventures.

Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

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Author: Neil de Grasse Tyson

The title of astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson’s book is certainly accurate. He begins with a plunge into the universe prior to the big bang and immediately explodes outward into explanations of a changing cosmos. Tyson explains with passionate enthusiasm where elements come from, why stars and planets are round, why galaxies take the shape of tortillas and much more. His renown and respect in his field generates an almost instant reader trust. Tyson’s writing is lively and approachable; he deals with every topic with humor and good will. You may feel as if a knowledgeable friend is explaining the universe to you – one worthy analogy or pop culture reference at a time.

However, Tyson’s strengths can at times turn into his weaknesses: He moves so fast through scientific principles and topics that he may well lose those readers who might appreciate more detail and context. Perhaps he recognises that most people don’t want to understand the scientific principles; they just like hearing him explain the universe’s function. Tyson provides a compelling read for anyone interested in science, the nature of the universe and clear explanations of complex phenomena.

Astro-Box Southern hemisphere

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Author: Philips

Description:4 items in portfolio : color illustrations, maps ; 30 x 33 cm

Contents:Philip’s stargazing with a telescope / Robin Scagell —
Philip’s southern starfinder / John Woodruff —
Philip’s star chart —
Philip’s planisphere.