Classifying the Cosmos
How We Can Make Sense of the Celestial Landscape
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Beschreibung
Since the invention of the telescope 400 years ago, astronomers have rapidly discovered countless celestial objects. But how does one make sense of it all?
Astronomer and former NASA Chief Historian Steven J. Dick brings order to this menagerie by defining 82 classes of astronomical objects, which he places in a beginner-friendly system known as "Astronomy’s Three Kingdoms.” Rather than concentrating on technicalities, this system focuses on the history of each object, the nature of its discovery, and our current knowledge about it.
The ensuing book can therefore be read on at least two levels. On one level, it is an illustrated guide to various types of astronomical wonders. On another level, it is considerably more: the first comprehensive classification system to cover all celestial objects in a consistent manner.
Accompanying each spread are spectacular historical and modern images. The result is a pedagogical tour-de-force, whereby readers can easily master astronomy’s three realms of planets, stars, and galaxies.
Since the invention of the telescope 400 years ago, astronomers have rapidly discovered countless celestial objects. But how does one make sense of it all?
Astronomer and former NASA Chief Historian Steven J. Dick brings order to this menagerie by defining 82 classes of astronomical objects, which he places in a beginner-friendly system known as "Astronomy’s Three Kingdoms.” Rather than concentrating on technicalities, this system focuses on the history of each object, the nature of its discovery, and our current knowledge about it.
The ensuing book can therefore be read on at least two levels. On one level, it is an illustrated guide to various types of astronomical wonders. On another level, it is considerably more: the first comprehensive classification system to cover all celestial objects in a consistent manner.
Accompanying each spread are spectacular historical and modern images. The result is a pedagogical tour-de-force, whereby readers can easily master astronomy’s three realms of planets, stars, and galaxies.
Offers detailed information about the history, discovery, and current knowledge of many astronomical objects Serves as a an educational tool by making sense of the menagerie of astronomical objects that have been discovered in the last 400 years and teaching readers how they relate to one another For the first time, the 82 classes of astronomical objects are delineated in this unique comprehensive classification system in astronomy
Autor*in
Steven J. Dick
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“In his new book Classifying the Cosmos: How We Can Make Sense of the Celestial Landscape, Dick undertakes the monumental task of designing a classification system for all of astronomy. He even goes a step further by incorporating existing subfield classification schemes. In each object entry, Dick expertly employs his background as NASA Chief Historian andhis decades of experience as an astronomer at the US Naval Observatory to provide detailed historical context and rigorous scientific explanation.” (Will Saunders, Astrobites, November 21, 2019)
“Astronomer and former NASA historian Steven Dick endeavors to bring some order to the cosmic menagerie as we know it today. The result is an important and revelatory work that can be used by researchers, educators, and enthusiasts alike. … I found Classifying the Cosmos to be thoroughly researched and engaging. … I would say that he has succeeded most admirably. I would also add that the book will be a handy reference for researchers and communicators of astronomy.” (William H. Waller, Physics Today, Vol. 72 (11), November, 2019)
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