A Comprehensive Introduction to Astronomy
Realm of the Universe is a college-level introduction to the observational science of astronomy. The book begins with a brief history of astronomy and describes the theories of the key people who contributed to astronomy including Aristotle, Ptolemy, Copernicus, Galileo, Brahe, Kepler, and Newton. We then examine the interrelationship of the Earth, the Moon, and the sky. The planets of the solar system are considered next. We then journey out to the stars and galaxies. Other topics covered include gravitation, electromagnetic radiation, the general and special theories of relativity, and the possibility of life on other worlds. There are also many color photographs and charts. The appendix includes useful information such as astronomical constants, orbital and physical data of the planets, total solar eclipses from 1972 through 2030, and star/constellation maps for each month of the year. As with many college textbooks, Realm of the Universe is an informative and useful book. Highly recommended.
