COMETS!: Visitors from Deep Space

by David J. Eicher, David H. Levy (Foreword)

Join David J. Eicher in this fast-paced and entertaining journey through the history, present, and future of these important yet mysterious cosmic bodies. From ancient times, humans have been fascinated by “broom stars” and “blazing scimitars” lighting up the sky and moving against the fixed background of stars. The Great Comets of our time still receive in-depth attention – ISON, Hale-Bopp, Hyakutake, West, and others – while recent spacecraft encounters offer amazing insight into the earliest days of the solar system. In this guide you will discover the cutting-edge science of what comets are, how they behave, where they reside, how groups of comets are related, and much more. The author carefully explores the ideas relating comets and life on Earth – and the danger posed by impacts. He finishes with practical, how-to techniques, tips, and tricks of how to successfully observe comets and even to capture your own images of them.

Genres: Astronomy

230 pages, Paperback

First published September 23, 2013

Reviews

[Rosebud · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm really into the night sky lately, what with watching the new "Cosmos" and looking at Jupiter and its three moons lined up in a row through a scope. I remember watching the Hale-Bopp comet in the 90s while living in Chicago. Outer space is fascinating, especially when you consider its age and size. Some parts of the book had a lot of specific info about comets and discoveries that my non-scientific brain won't recall a week from now; however, it added to my awe of the universe and my hope to see another comet in my lifetime.

I have to admit being in an amazement phase right now, what with plant propagating class and reading, learning, and watching the night sky. I'm just IN AWE of all of life. It's a goose-bump moment when you watch a little seed grow into a plant, then think of all the vast universe full of life. Then, when you remember that all of life is made from the same "stuff," you just have to gasp in amazement at it all!

[Nick Turner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Superstitions people believed in the past about messengers from the cosmos. The long history of comet observations. The latest scientific evidence about what comets are and where they come from.
Advocates getting involved with comet watching. Many images of comets and star fields.
Discusses astrophotography. What you will need to get started. Tips for success.
Glossary at the end. I read an advance review copy from the publisher.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really nice surprise. Book is very well written and very informative. The book covers everything from the history of comets to observing. David’s writing style is very clear and practical. Highly recommend this book. For those who want to learn more about Comets.

[Kadri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great guide to all things related to comets - history of observations, theory, how to start hunting comets and how to both sketch and photograph comets.