The Cambridge Concise History of Astronomy / Edition 1

by Michael Hoskin

Overview

Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences, and one which has repeatedly led to fundamental changes in our view of the world. This book covers the history of our study of the cosmos from prehistory to a survey of modern astronomy and astrophysics. It does not attempt to cover everything, but deliberately concentrates on the important themes and topics, including stellar astronomy in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries—the source of many important concepts in modern astronomy—and the Copernican revolution, which led to the challenge of ancient authorities in many areas other than astronomy. This is an essential text for students of the history of science and for students of astronomy who require a historical background to their studies.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521576000
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	03/18/1999
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	380
Product dimensions:	7.44(w) x 9.69(h) x 0.79(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Astronomy before history Clive Ruggles and Michael Hoskin; 2 Astronomy in antiquity Michael Hoskin; 3. Astronomy in China Christopher Cullen; 4. Islamic astronomy Michael Hoskin and Owen Gingerich; 5. The Astrolabe Michael Hoskin; 6. Medieval Latin astronomy Michael Hoskin and Owen Gingerich; 7. From geometry to physics: astronomy transformed Michael Hoskin; 8. The refracting telescope in the seventeenth century J. A. Bennett; 9. Newton and Newtonianism Michael Hoskin; 10. The astronomy of the universe of stars Michael Hoskin; 11. The message of starlight: the rise of astrophysics David Dewhirst and Michael Hoskin; 12. Astronomy's widening horizons Michael Hoskin and Owen Gingerich; Reference Guide; Chronology; Glossary; Further reading; Picture acknowledgments; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...a serious one-volume history of astronomy, presenting a balanced view across its entire field of coverage....Hundreds of well-chosen illustrations make this volume a pleasure to read, browse through, or skim.... The price is right, too." ISIS

"...the book has much to recommend it. The narrative is well written and engaging. The level of technical detail is not too daunting, considering the intended audience. There are many monchrome illustrations, most of which effectively augment the text..." Science Books & Films

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