Discovery and Classification in Astronomy: Controversy and Consensus - Hardcover

Dick, Steven J.

 
9781107033610: Discovery and Classification in Astronomy: Controversy and Consensus
Hardcover
ISBN 10: 1107033616 ISBN 13: 9781107033610
Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2013

Synopsis

Astronomical discovery involves more than detecting something previously unseen. The reclassification of Pluto as a dwarf planet in 2006, and the controversy it generated, shows that discovery is a complex and ongoing process – one comprising various stages of research, interpretation and understanding. Ranging from Galileo's observation of Jupiter's satellites, Saturn's rings and star clusters, to Herschel's nebulae and the modern discovery of quasars and pulsars, Steven J. Dick's comprehensive history identifies the concept of 'extended discovery' as the engine of progress in astronomy. The text traces more than 400 years of telescopic observation, exploring how the signal discoveries of new astronomical objects relate to and inform one another, and why controversies such as Pluto's reclassification are commonplace in the field. The volume is complete with a detailed classification system for known classes of astronomical objects, offering students, researchers and amateur observers a valuable reference and guide.

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About the Author

Steven J. Dick served as the NASA Chief Historian from 2003 to 2009 and was the Charles A. Lindbergh Chair in Aerospace at the National Air and Space Museum from 2011 to 2012. He has worked as both an astronomer and historian of science. Minor planet 6544 Stevendick is named in his honor.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Publication date
2013
Language
English
ISBN 10 
1107033616
ISBN 13 
9781107033610
Binding
Hardcover
Number of pages
472