Introductory Astronomy is a lucidly written introduction to the planets, the stars and beyond. Starting with problems astronomers face on Earth connected with observation, the text then moves on to cover the Solar System, stars, galaxies and finally cosmology. The evolution and internal workings of astronomical bodies are outlined, demystifying arcane entities such as black holes and white dwarfs in the process. Carefully structured, this test has a strong narrative thread running throughout and concepts are gradually introduced, and subsequently built upon in later chapters. The science behind the subject is integrated and presented in a way that enables the reader to gain a thorough understanding of the subject without blinding them with unnecessary mathematical detail or scientific theory. Astronomy is brought to life through the many carefully chosen examples, figures and photographs. Introductory Astronomy:
* Provides a balanced introduction to the field of astronomy.
* Includes many carefully chosen worked examples and problems.
* Is clearly written to appeal to students and amateur astronomers alike.

In writing this textbook the author's objective was to provide students with a non-trivial, reasonably priced introduction to astronomy. Starting with problems astronomers face on Earth connected with observation, the book then moves on to cover the Solar System, galaxies and finally cosmology, one of the most exciting and fastest developing areas of astronomy. Up-to-date and carefully structured Introductory Astronomy has a strong narrative thread running through it; concepts are gradually introduced and subsequently built upon in later chapters. The science behind the subject is integrated and presented in a way that allows readers to gain a thorough understanding of the subject without being blinded by unnecessary mathematical detail or scientific theory. Throughout the book there are plenty of worked examples, problems, figures and photographs.
FEATURES
- A balanced coverage of the field of astronomy.
- Many carefully chosen worked examples and problems.
- Clear exposition of the science behind astronomy.
CONTENTS: Introduction; Light; Seeing into Space; The View From Earth; The Sun, the Stars and Time; Observation of the Solar System; Gravity and the Solar System; The Origin of the Solar System; A Closer Look at the Terrestrial Planets; A Closer Look at the Jovian Planets; The Sun; Studying Stars; Stellar Birth and Early Life; Stellar Evolution and Death; Galaxies; Cosmology; Appendices: Measurement and units; Atoms, ions and molecules; Ellipses; Historical milestones in astronomy; Compendium of astronomical data; Some fundamental physical constants; Multiple choice quiz; Short answers to selected questions; Index.