Galaxies in the Universe: An Introduction
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2, 10/26/2011
EAN 9780521671866, ISBN10: 0521671868
Paperback, 442 pages, 25.4 x 17.8 x 2.5 cm
Language: English
This extensively illustrated book presents the astrophysics of galaxies since their beginnings in the early Universe. It has been thoroughly revised to take into account the most recent observational data, and recent discoveries such as dark energy. There are new sections on galaxy clusters, gamma ray bursts and supermassive black holes. The authors explore the basic properties of stars and the Milky Way before working out towards nearby galaxies and the distant Universe. They discuss the structures of galaxies and how galaxies have developed, and relate this to the evolution of the Universe. The book also examines ways of observing galaxies across the whole electromagnetic spectrum, and explores dark matter and its gravitational pull on matter and light. This book is self-contained and includes several homework problems with hints. It is ideal for advanced undergraduate students in astronomy and astrophysics.
1. Introduction
2. Mapping our Milky Way
3. The orbits of the stars
4. Our backyard
the Local Group
5. Spiral and SO galaxies
6. Elliptical galaxies
7. Galaxy groups and clusters
8. Large-scale distribution of galaxies
9. Active galactic nuclei and the early history of galaxies
Appendices
Index.
'Sparke and Gallagher have produced a remarkably comprehensive and easy-to-read account of extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. Aimed at third and fourth year undergraduates, but invaluable for researchers at all levels, frontier topics in this exciting and popular area of astronomy are discussed with admirable clarity, with the physical principles carefully explained and well-illustrated.' Richard Ellis, Steele Professor of Astronomy, California Institute of Technology