To Measure the Sky: An Introduction to Observational Astronomy
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2, 10/20/2016
EAN 9781107572560, ISBN10: 1107572568
Paperback, 472 pages, 24.6 x 18.8 x 2.1 cm
Language: English
The second edition of this popular text provides undergraduates with a quantitative yet accessible introduction to the physical principles underlying the collection and analysis of observational data in contemporary optical and infrared astronomy. The text clearly links recent developments in ground- and space-based telescopes, observatory and instrument design, adaptive optics, and detector technologies to the more modest telescopes and detectors that students may use themselves. Beginning with reviews of the most relevant physical concepts and an introduction to elementary statistics, students are given the firm theoretical foundation they need. New topics, including an expanded treatment of spectroscopy, Gaia, the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, and photometry at large redshifts bring the text up to date. Historical development of topics and quotations emphasize that astronomy is both a scientific and a human endeavour, while extensive end-of-chapter exercises facilitate the students' practical learning experience.
1. Light
2. Uncertainty
3. Place, time, and motion
4. Names, catalogs, and databases
5. Optics for astronomy
6. Astronomical telescopes
7. Matter and light
8. Detectors
9. Digital images from arrays
10. Photometry
11. Spectrometers.