Available:*
Library | Item Barcode | Call Number | Material Type | Item Category 1 | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Searching... | 30000010125584 | QB45.2 B73 2004 | Open Access Book | Book | Searching... |
Searching... | 30000010088345 | QB45.2 B73 2004 | Reference Book | 1:BOOKREF | Searching... |
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Summary
Summary
Astronomy Methods, first published in 2003, is an introduction to the basic practical tools, methods and phenomena that underlie quantitative astronomy. Taking a technical approach, the author covers a rich diversity of topics across all branches of astronomy, from radio to gamma-ray wavelengths. Topics include the quantitative aspects of the electromagnetic spectrum, atmospheric and interstellar absorption, telescopes in all wavebands, interferometry, adaptive optics, the transport of radiation through matter to form spectral lines, and neutrino and gravitational-wave astronomy. Clear, systematic presentations of the topics are accompanied by diagrams and problem sets. Written for undergraduates and graduate students, this book contains a wealth of information that is required for the practice and study of quantitative and analytical astronomy and astrophysics.
Reviews 1
Choice Review
Written for graduate students and advanced undergraduates, this book meets an important need for a comprehensive overview of practical observational techniques used in modern astrophysics. Topics include telescopes and electromagnetic radiation, coordinate systems, celestial motions, time measurement, detectors and statistics, interferometry (covered unusually thoroughly), properties of celestial objects, radiative transfer, neutrinos, cosmic rays, and gravitational waves. Bradt (emer., physics, MIT) is an expert in cosmic ray physics and X-ray astronomy and so writes with authority and wisdom; indeed, the book would have been even more valuable if it contained anecdotes about the joys and pitfalls of doing cutting-edge research. Astronomy Methods is based on a course for MIT juniors and seniors, and the author's experience as a teacher is demonstrated by the clarity of writing and use of metaphors (photon detection statistics is compared to counting cars passing by one's house, for example). There are a number of very instructive problems at the end of each chapter, with solutions available directly from the author. ^BSumming Up: Strongly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty. T. Barker Wheaton College (MA)
Table of Contents
| 1 Astronomy through the centuries |
| 2 Electromagnetic radiation |
| 3 Co-ordinate systems and charts |
| 4 Gravity, celestial motions, and time |
| 5 Telescopes |
| 6 Detectors and statistics |
| 7 Multiple telescope interferometry |
| 8 Point-like and extended sources |
| 9 Properties and distances of celestial objects |
| 10 Absorption and scattering of photons |
| 11 Spectra of electromagnetic radiation |
| 12 Astronomy beyond photons |
