This focused, advanced undergraduate text provides broad coverage of astronomy and astrophysics with a strong emphasis on physics. Many researchers, faculty, and graduate students use this book as a reference. This text has an algebra and trigonometry prerequisite, but calculus is preferred. * "Concept Applications" are fully worked-out, in-chapter problems that focus on an important concept found within that chapter. * "Key Equations and Concepts" neatly summarize the important equations and concepts found in each chapter. New to this * Many new problems have been added, most 3rd Edition problems remain. * Physics Prelude serves as preview and preorganizer of the physics at a level appropriate to the book and the course. * Reorganization of Part 3--Chapters on stellar evolution are now consecutive. * Key new astronomical material further enhances the text. * "Hale-Bopp Comet Update" has been added after Chapter 26.
This is a textbook on the subject, published in 1992, and therefore in need of update. On the positive side, the inclusion of mathematical examples and exercises still make this book worthwhile.
Not quite an easy read. I swear I fell asleep several times however I enjoyed several chapters and was fascinated by how long man has been staring at the stars.
This is a great astronomy and astrophysics textbook. We used it in my undergraduate astrophysics course, 15 years ago. It introduces the student or reader to a beautiful range of topics in astronomy and astrophysics, and with enough depth in its treatment to make one feel comfortable with a massive subject. Other textbooks go into greater depth about specific areas of study, but for a broad overview and introduction, with a good physics foundation and serious attention given to each area, this book is an excellent choice.
This is by far the best astronomy book I've read. As it's titled, it gives a great introduction to astronomy and astrophysics. It does require some basic chemistry, calculus, and physics to understand, but there are some excellent appendices to use to brush up your skill. I'll be hanging on to this book as a reference.