Measure Solar System Objects and Their Movements for Yourself!

Clark, John D.

ISBN 10: 0387895604 / ISBN 13: 9780387895604

Published by Springer/Sci-Tech/Trade, 2009

This enriching book shows amateur astronomers how to measure planetary sizes and distances for themselves, as well as orbital speeds. Written in an entertaining, anecdotal style, only a basic knowledge of geometry is required. Series: The Patrick Moore Practical Astronomy Series. Num Pages: 173 pages, 80 black & white illustrations, biography. BIC Classification: PGS; WNX. Category: (G) General (US: Trade). Dimension: 234 x 157 x 10. Weight in Grams: 294. . 2009. 2009th Edition. paperback. . . . . Seller Inventory # V9780387895604

Synopsis:

Instead of taking somebody's word for it about the basic size and distance statistics for the solar system, this book shows amateur astronomers how to measure these things for themselves. This is an enriching experience for any amateur astronomer - to understand and personally measure some fundamental astronomical quantities and distances.

A basic knowledge of geometry is required, but it is amazing how simple the geometry can be. Readers are led through the geometry as gently as possible - and in a light-hearted way - presuming that most non-academics will have half-forgotten most of their mathematics.

The practical astronomical equipment recommended is no more than a typical commercially-made amateur telescope and a camera of some sort - these days a webcam works very well. Apart from that all the reader will need is access to a computer, the know-how to download free software, and an enthusiasm to expand his knowledge of the basis of scientific astronomy.

About the Author: John Clark holds a Bachelor of Science, first class honors, in Physics, from London University, England, and a Ph. D. in Physics from Warwick University, England. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Physics, and spent two years as a post-doctoral researcher at Case Western Reserve University in the USA. Currently he is Managing Director of Fine R and D Limited. He has been an active amateur astronomer for many years.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Measure Solar System Objects and Their ...
Publisher: Springer/Sci-Tech/Trade
Publication Date: 2009
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: New