Observing the Universe: A Guide to Observational Astronomy and Planetary Science

Observing the Universe: A Guide to Observational Astronomy and Planetary Science

by Andrew J . Norton (Editor)

Synopsis

Observing the Universe introduces a range of techniques and skills that will be useful for those wishing to undertake observational work in astronomy and planetary science. Observations have played, and continue to play, a crucial role in developing our understanding of the Universe, and the best way to get a feel for the role of observations is to do some. This comprehensive guide provides a sound basis for tackling astronomy and planetary science observations. It concentrates on generic aspects of observations, including the principles of telescopes and detectors, photometry and spectroscopy, microscopy techniques for analysing samples, teamwork skills, planning for a session at an observatory, keeping records of what you do, estimating uncertainties in measurements, analysing data numerically and graphically, and producing a written report. Including self-assessment questions with full solutions, this self-contained guide is suitable for undergraduate students of astronomy and planetary science, and serious amateur astronomers.

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More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 180
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 22 Jul 2004

ISBN 10: 0521603935
ISBN 13: 9780521603935

Media Reviews
'... this book had hidden depths ... All good stuff in itself and written in a very readable fashion. The second half of the book is the section that really impressed me though and certainly makes this book stand out from the rest ... the second section covers the 'Skills' you need to be a successful observational astronomer ... Finally a book has arrived that is for the already experienced amateur astronomer. If you've already gotten into the subject, you know your way around the sky and a telescope, this book is a must to get you on to the next level. By the end of it, you'll have progressed from the skills and knowledge of an experienced beginner to an astronomer who can start to provide real and valuable input to the scientific communities of the world.' Mark Lawrik-Thompson FRAS
Author Bio
Andrew Norton obtained his PhD from the University of Leicester. He has written several books for Open University courses in both physics and astronomy. His research is in the area of interacting binary stars.