Electronic Imaging in Astronomy: Detectors and Instrumentation (Wiley-Praxis Series in Astronomy & Astrophysics) - Softcover

McLean, Ian S.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0471969729 ISBN 13: 9780471969723

Publisher: Wiley–Blackwell, 1997

Synopsis

This book emphasizes the synergy between high technology and our ability to study and comprehend the universe. It describes the key technologies and ways in which computers affect modern astronomy. The author discusses instrumentation for infrared, ultraviolet x–ray, radio and gamma–ray astronomy, and considers the new generation of telescopes.

About this title

Review

From the reviews of the second edition:

"The book literally covers everything you ever wanted to know about the design and technology behind CCDs. Well written and informative, the book is littered with technical diagrams and useful equations for anyone interested in either developing their own CCD device or writing image processing algorithms and plug-ins. Not only that ... this is a book that every university undergraduate studying instrumentation should probably have on their bookshelf." (Nick Howes, Astronomy Now, January, 2009)

"McLean ... provides an excellent primer for those with a technical interest in these amazing devices. ... the book is a compendium of astronomical methods and instrumentation. ... McLean’s book ... would be an excellent college-level resource. In fact, it should be on the shelf of anyone who wants a firm technical background in astronomical methods and instrumentation. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduate through professional collections." (T. D. Oswalt, Choice, Vol. 46 (7), March, 2009)

"This is the second edition of a book whose purpose is to explain the workings of electronic detectors and instruments. ... This ambitious book is in part an attempt to provide an overview of just what your strange-looking instrument is doing. ... this is an excellent book, packed with information and written in a clear and accessible style which will make it invaluable to any student or supervisor. Highly recommended." (Paul O’Brien, The Observatory, Vol. 129 (1210), June, 2009)

Synopsis

Modern astronomy depends heavily on advances in technology and instrumentation. This text emphasizes the synergy between high technology and the ability to study and comprehend the universe, describing the key technologies and ways in which electronics and computers underlie modern astronomy. Significant attention is paid to the principles, design and use of CCD (Charge Coupled Device) technology now used extensively by professional and amateur astronomers. In addition, the author discusses instrumentation for infrared, ultraviolet, x-ray, radio and gamma-ray astronomy, examines the new generation of telescopes and considers future detector developments. It includes exercises and practical data for students.

Edition details

• Publisher: Wiley–Blackwell
• Publication date: 1997
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0471969729
• ISBN 13: 9780471969723
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 502