Astronomy: From the Earth to the Universe, Media Edition (with InfoTrac®)

Book Description

ASTRONOMY: FROM THE EARTH TO THE UNIVERSE describes the current state of astronomy, both the fundamentals of astronomical knowledge that have been built up over decades and the exciting advances that are now taking place. The writing style is friendly and carefully detailed. It serves as a valuable reference for both beginners and astronomy enthusiasts. This book is organized as a number of stories. Individual chapters often tell what used to be known, how space and other modern observations have transformed our understanding, and then what is scheduled for the future. This is done with each planet. Consequently, an instructor can easily add photos (available as slides, overheads, CD-ROMs, and on the World Wide Web) and movies and keep a student's interest for a whole lecture on each planet, if desired. Students learn about astronomy through concrete examples, rather than merely being given overarching concepts without enough underpinning.

Customer Reviews:

Astronomy .......2006-12-31

I ordered this book for a Cosmology class. It was pretty good. Check out the NASA site for additional pictures.

Average customer rating:

Fresh Perspectives on a Fragile Planet
An excellent choice for anyone of any age
Only Being in Orbit Could Give You a Better View!!!!
A new perspective
best book on earth

The Home Planet
Kevin W. Kelley
Manufacturer: Addison Wesley Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0201550954

Customer Reviews:

Fresh Perspectives on a Fragile Planet.......2006-01-28

Let's not forget we're living on a little planet, what some like to call spaceship earth. If earth is a spaceship, this is the owner's manual: THE HOME PLANET. Political boundaries are dissolved by a moon's-eye view of Earth to create bold visions of the planet through 150 color photographs culled from the American and then-Soviet archives. Commentary is provided solely by eloquent quotes from astronauts of 18 nations which are shown both in original language (be it Arabic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Hindi, Mongolian, French, German, Spanish, Hungarian, Romanian, Polish, Czech, Bulgarian, Dutch, or Russian) and English translation. The message is simple--we are all citizens of the same global nation.

An excellent choice for anyone of any age.......2002-03-07

This superb coffee table book by Kevin W. Kelley is especially apt in this day and age, when so much in life feels precarious and precious. A simple and simply eloquent collection of photographs and quotations, it is so much more than the sum of its parts.

The astronauts who have either landed on the moon or have orbited the earth have so much to tell us and it's easy to see from the photographs why they feel words fail them. Luckily for us, words DON'T fail them. This select, small group of men and woman try mightily to tell us what their experiences were, and overwhelmingly they succeed in conveying the mystery and beauty they saw from their unique perches in space. A few of the better bits include:

"[From space] you have an almost dispassionate platform--remote, Olympian--and yet [seeing the earth from up there is] so moving that you can hardly believe how emotionally attached you are to those rough patterns shifting steadily below."
- THOMAS STAFFORD, USA

"O. Henry, the American writer, wrote in one of his stories that if you want to encourage the craft of murder, all you have to do is lock up two men for two months in an eighteen-by-twenty-four-foot room. Entering 'Salyut,' which was to be both our home and our office for six months, we told each other: We are brothers. I am you and you are me."
- VALERIE RYUMIN, USSR

"Before I flew, I was already aware of how small and vulnerable our planet is; but only when I saw it from space, in all its ineffable beauty and fragility, did I realize that humankind's most urgent task is to cherish and preserve it for future generations."
- SIGMUND JAHN, GERMANY

In no book that I can think of does the phrase "A picture is worth a thousand words" better fit. The photographs herein are astonishing in showing the exquisite planet we occupy. A view of England's North Sea coast looks like a slab of lapiz lazuli, its surface flecked with sparkle and hue. Canada's Lake Winnipeg from space has the appearance of something primal, almost fetal. The Indian Ocean off Madagascar looks like a sheet of slate over which some divine presence has tossed a handful of diamonds. So few of us can ever hope to share the experience of these men and women that this book is all the more precious, and beautiful.

Only Being in Orbit Could Give You a Better View!!!!.......2001-03-28

This coffee table book presents some of the best photographs taken of the Earth and the Moon by both astronauts and cosmonauts. Due to the large size of the book, these photographs are even more stunning. In addition to the photographs, several quotes by those who have flown in space accompany each photograph.

One of things that I really liked about the book is that other than the small quotes, there is very little accompany text. The only real text is at the end of the book, where NASA's chief photographic planner describes "Why Space Photography?" I found thispart kind of chilling where he states, "it is a far more air-polluted Earth today than it was in the past ... twenty years ago"

A new perspective.......1999-03-09

A wonderfully moving and beautifully compiled collection of images. Mountain ranges and river deltas dissolve into abstract designs of astounding beauty. The accompanying commentaries show a world united in space in a way that is sadly absent on Earth. The book would make anybody want to become an astronaut.

This is the perfect present for any occasion. It has touched the hearts of everyone I know who has ever seen it. Highly recommended.

best book on earth.......1999-02-21

Political boundaries are dissolved by a moon's-eye view of Earth to create bold visions of the planet through 150 color photographs culled from the American and then-Soviet archives. The pictures are allowed to speak for themselves, with only tiny captions describing locales and weather conditions. Commentary is provided solely by eloquent quotes from astronauts of 18 nations which are shown both in original language (be it Arabic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Hindi, Mongolian, French, German, Spanish, Hungarian, Romanian, Polish, Czech, Bulgarian, Dutch, or Russian) and English translation. The message is simple--we are all citizens of the same global nation.

Conceived and edited for the Association of Space Explorers, no earthling will be unmoved by the views, both photographic and verbal, regarding our home. From desert to arctic, ocean to breadbasket, this book will delight anyone who's ever looked outside an airplane window to marvel at the forms below.

Average customer rating:

The real deal

The best book on the Apollo program I have read

Another fine book by Buzz Aldrin/Apollo 11

Buzz Moon

Lost in space

Men from Earth
Buzz Aldrin
Manufacturer: Bantam
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Last Man on the Moon: Astronaut Eugene Cernan and America's Race in Space

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Moonwalker

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ASIN: 0553053744
Release Date: 1989-06-01

Customer Reviews:

The real deal.......2005-10-07

Col Aldrin shares not only his personal insite of the space race and space flight mechanics, but offers his intellect and wisdom on the future of mankind. The book is a must read for all space exploration enthusists and would be adventure seekers. Col Aldrin is truely the cutting edge of man's reaching out in the universe. Highly recomended read.

The best book on the Apollo program I have read.......2004-12-02

When there is a discussion regarding the creation of a vast new technology, proponents generally use the phrase, "Manhattan project for _________." This is of course a reference to the vast project that led to the development of the atomic bomb. It surprises me that this is used rather than a reference to the Apollo project that put people on the moon. To date, no one has found a use for nuclear weapons other than destruction, but the technical and psychological benefits of the American space program were tremendous. Both projects were enormous in scope and success required the invention of whole new technologies.
Buzz Aldrin was one of three astronauts in the Apollo 11 mission and the second man to walk on the moon. He was a fighter pilot, but like the rest of the early astronaut corps, combined that with a great deal of intelligence. Buzz earned a Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in manned space rendezvous. Therefore, he understands a great deal of the theory behind the movement of space vehicles, which was very helpful in the early days of trying to rendezvous with another space vehicle.
This book is his recollection of the American space program; from the time the first German V2 delivered a deadly warhead to the ignominious aftermath of the Apollo program. His fundamental understanding of many of the principles of space flight is evident, making this different from most of the other histories of the American space program. He also creates two parallel time tracks, one describing the American successes and the other the actions of the Soviets.
Those who understand the history of the times realize that the greatest single impetus for the American space program occurred in the Soviet Union. Their launching of the Sputnik satellite and then the more incredible event of orbiting Yuri Gagarin created a great deal of anxiety in the United States and led to the "space race." While it was a source of great national pride and tremendous technical advancement, the space programs of the two superpowers was just another area of competition. Aldrin explains, as best he could in 1989, how the Soviet Union was able to accomplish what it did. Since most Soviet records were still unavailable at that time, there are many occasions when he resorts to informed speculation.
Aldrin was selected for the astronaut corps in 1963, while the Mercury project was still active. He describes the talent of the astronauts, as well as their fiercely competitive camaraderie. These people were fighter pilots and combat veterans. While they competed with the enemy for their lives and with their fellow pilots for advancement and glory, they also shared the common bonds of people who choose the life of danger. This is the best book about the Apollo program that I have read. Aldrin's combination of astronaut insider and knowledge of the technical details is what made it that way.

Another fine book by Buzz Aldrin/Apollo 11.......2000-05-28

This book is almost as good as Buzz's first book--Return To Earth from early 70's. Dr. Aldrin at least takes his time and makes the effort to share the Apollo 11 experience with us and also what was happening [space related] in America and in RUSSIA during Cold War/ Space race era, and compares the two " superpowers'" and what was happening at both places at same time intervals in the 60's. Much research and time spent in book

Buzz Moon.......2000-04-26

Aldring give us his insides in the Apollo 11 mission. His personal toughs about the Space Program the feelings of been one of the firsts to walk on the Moon. This is a must reed for any enthusiast of the Apollo Program.. You can relive the Gemini 12 space walk and the trill of the trying for the historic Apollo 11 mission

Lost in space.......2000-01-09

The author of this book went to the the moon but unfortunately the book still lurches in Earth orbit. Yes, the book is hard to get and my grateful thanks to Amazon for getting me a copy. Despite the splendor of the subject matter the book was a tough read. Too dry, too technical, too lost in words. Where was the personal touch? Where was Aldrin's inspiring rehabilitation from alcholism, the personal difficulties, the controversy over who would walk first on the moon. The latter makes it in print, but only just, and one can't quite help but feel with much selective editing. For real space buffs only.

...the Heavens and the Earth: A Political History of the Space Age

Average customer rating:

The Entire Scope of the Space Age
It is no wonder that McDougall won a Pulitzer Prize!
Thorough and Easy to Follow
Up, up and beyond
Insightful, Revealing and Ahead of its Time

...the Heavens and the Earth: A Political History of the Space Age
Walter A. McDougall
Manufacturer: The Johns Hopkins University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0801857481

Book Description

This highly acclaimed study approaches the space race as a problem in comparative public policy. Drawing on published literature, archival sources in both the United States and Europe, interviews with many of the key participants, and important declassified material, such as the National Security Council's first policy paper on space, McDougall examines U.S., European, and Soviet space programs and their politics. Opening with a short account of Nikolai Kibalchich, a late nineteenth-century Russian rocketry theoretician, McDougall argues that the Soviet Union made its way into space first because it was the world's first "technocracy" -- which he defines as "the institutionalization of technological change for state purpose." He also explores the growth of a political economy of technology in both the Soviet Union and the United States.

"Once every decade or so, a book comes along that stands by itself as a remarkable contribution to the literature of a field. Such a work is Walter A. McDougall's... the Heavens and the Earth." -- Technology and Culture

"[A] boldly conceived, elegantly written, and unfailingly provocative history of the new age of space." -- Science

"[An] immensely readable and elegant book" -- Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Customer Reviews:

The Entire Scope of the Space Age.......2007-05-22

Phenomenal! McDougall covers the full breadth of the most influential factors, giving insight to the obvious, and depth to the obscure but important forces moving the space age forward.

It is no wonder that McDougall won a Pulitzer Prize!.......2007-01-08

Being a so-called 'Child of Apollo.' I read this book expecting few new insights to the space program's formulative period. Gee, was I ever wrong! This book is filled with nuggests of historic information that provides the reader with greater context and historic analysis than any other book on the topic I have yet to read. Any student of history, political science, or space advocate should read this book carefully to be well-grounded in the Apollo Era. McDougall did an outstanding job in relating to the reader details of the context of the American and Soviet space programs throughout the 50's and 60's. Knowledge of the space age would be totally incomplete without having read this book! I highly recommend it. It is no wonder that this book won McDougall the 1986 Pulitzer Prize.

Thorough and Easy to Follow.......2006-12-24

This book is fantastic. The book studies, in depth, the the reasons and processes that led to and the decisions that were made during that time. This author does a terrific job of holding the readers attention while explaining the detailed history. I highly recommend this book to anyone.

Up, up and beyond.......2006-03-22

The Cold War between the US and USSR was fought on multiple fronts. One of the most exciting was the Space Race; first to space, first man in space, first woman in space, and of course, the race to the moon. This is the subject of this book. Unlike other books on the similar topic, the emphasis here is on the internal politics within each nation that occurred as a result of this competition. Due to the lack of availability of data from the USSR, this book focuses on the US side, and examines the politics of the Eisenhower, Kennedy and later administrations.

The book examines the various facets of the US space program, touching on subjects such as the formation of NASA, the space shuttle program, the battle between those who wanted to spend money on NASA and those who did not, the doling out of pork-barrel projects as part of funding for NASA, and the dichotomy between military and civilian control and influence. Overall, a great story book and a great textbook for use in history classes.

Insightful, Revealing and Ahead of its Time.......2006-03-08

I purchased this book when it first came out 20 years ago. At the time, it was very controversial. Author McDougall suggested that President Eisenhower actually wanted the Soviet Union to be the first to launch an earth satellite because that would establish the legal principle of "freedom of space." This principle was vital for the interests of the United States, which at the time was moving full speed ahead to develop reconnaissance satellites. Allowing the Soviets to go first would solidify the idea that one nation's satellites could freely pass through the skies of another nation. If the Soviets established such a principle, they would be unlikely to protest when OUR satellites began to overfly their territory. As later books based on newly declassified sources have confirmed, McDougall's analysis of Eisenhower's motives turned out to be right on target. The only thing the President underestimated was the intensity of the American public's reaction to the Soviet's "Sputnik I." Detailed and comprehensive, this book remains one of the best single-volume histories of the early years of the Space Age.

Voices from Legendary Times: We Are a Bridge Between Past and Future

Average customer rating:

What Part of Our World are we "Doomed to Repeat"?
Are there no editors at iUniverse?
Poorly written but worth the read
Great book
Answers all the questions

Voices from Legendary Times: We Are a Bridge Between Past and Future
Ellen Lloyd
Manufacturer: iUniverse, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0595367380

Book Description

About the book: What is the connection between lost civilizations, ancient cosmic catastrophes, and extraterrestrial visitations in prehistory? Voices from Legendary Times draws together compelling evidence from archaeology, astronomy, geology, myths, and ancient texts to prove that superior beings from outer space genetically engineered several human races on our planet. . Examines the flaws in the theory of evolution. . Proves that giants were an important, yet now forgotten part of our history. . Explains what really caused the destruction of highly advanced civilizations and continents like Atlantis, Lemuria, and Thule. . Reveals that our ancestors were familiar with flying machines and nuclear weapons. . Shows proof of extraterrestrial contact in the Bible. In the search for lost origins of humanity, Ellen Llyod demonstrates that races of men have inhabited Earth for millions of years, but not all of them were human. Ancient sources describe the past ages as world cycles. The mysteries of the forgotten past reveal that the humans and all living beings have not been created once, but are products of a continuous re-creation process performed and guided by alien gods. Learn why our history is more startling than we could ever imagine!

Customer Reviews:

What Part of Our World are we "Doomed to Repeat"?.......2007-09-27

We, on this planet, are repeatedly told; "He who forgets the Past, is doomed to repeat It; but, if we have already forgotten "it" "or...never even been told "it", where & how do we even start to get "clue one" about what "it"is? Legendary Times definitely gets a person off on the right foot, gets that foot in the door and that toe in the water! The ancient brought to light, & the public.

Legendary Times puts in one place; stories, facts, legends, recovered artifacts, scientific results, & first person accounts of humanity's origins. This compilation is written for the casual reader, yet still contains good clues for a researcher. If Legendary Times has a downside, it can be said to sort of "trail off towards the end" leaving one wishing for more data.

I bought a copy for a friend and find I am always going back to reference a fact.

Are there no editors at iUniverse?.......2007-09-03

There are a lot of problems with this book but the most glaring are the punctuation, sentence fragments and lack of continuity. If this book was translated from another language into English, where were the proofreaders? I've read lots of books translated from other languages that don't have these irritating mistakes.

With that said, I wonder about the research. Among her many assertions, she states that bones of giants found in CA were re-buried in order to suppress the true history of our origin. How does she know this? Though she has sources listed in the back of the book, there are no footnotes to indicate her source for such conclusions. I would think a mathematician, as the jacket states she is, would be more likely to demand proof. Her off-hand conclusions are not based on any arguments or proof that I found in her writing.

I believe there were civilizations prior to the Egyptian/Mesopotamian civilizations but this book is shallow and offers only wild speculation.

Save your money and eyesight.

Poorly written but worth the read.......2007-02-01

This book would be excellent if it were better written. My guess is that English is not the author's primary language. But beneath the annoyingly dropped words (especially "the"), incomplete and awkward sentences, and randomly placed commas is a wealth of substance. The author makes an excellent case that scholars should take cultural myths and legends more seriously, that there are important truths within the stories.
The tour of mysterious sites around the world, along with other evidence of long-lost great civilizations in our distant past, is relatively comprehensive and interesting. Yes, the "ancient astronauts" theory has for some time now been an object of merciless ridicule, but the ever growing body of anomalous evidence, in my opinion, continues to call conventional notions of human origins into question. Although this poorly written book would never suffice in an academic setting, it most certainly can serve well to introduce the reader to related theories proposed by the likes of Velikovsky, Alford, Hancock, Sitchen, and of course the controversial and giggle-factor encrusted popularizer, Erich von Daniken. If one is willing and able to push aside the ridicule, approach these theories objectively (and also tolerate annoying grammatical errors and typos) for the sake of understanding content, buy Voices, for it serves as a very good compilation of evidence proposed supporting ancient astronauts related claims.

Great book.......2006-08-10

[...]
Voices from Legendary Times by Ellen Lloyd
I have to be honest from the start, I am not a lover of books that deal with visiting "crafts" from outer space as an answer to the mysteries of the past. Ever since reading Daniken's book I always felt that many statements and claims were made without the evidence to back them up, and yet Ellen Lloyd has done a superb job in uncovering a huge and bewildering amount of
data. This is not just a simple tale claiming that ships landed on the pyramids of Giza, no, this is a really good and clever investigation into hundreds of mysteries, from the Hopi indians to the Maya, oh yes, and a really good read.

There are the infamous authors on extraterrestrial visitation such as Sitchin and Daniken with all their flaws and there are many unsung authors such as Ellen Lloyd who deserve to have their voices heard. The simple reason being that Ellen has done more research and uncovered more enigmas than Sitchin and Daniken put together and all this in one book. From the
moment Ellen steps into the "theory of evolution" she had me hooked because I associated with her as she ripped it to shreds. And then, without blinking she moved headlong into a territory many so-called authors would fear to
tread - Atlantis. In her cleverly deduced assumption there was much more to this ancient tale than previously believed - not least of which involved much more advanced technical abilities in ancient times.

Whatever your thoughts on little green men; whether you think there's something at Area 51 or not, you will be hooked by this well-written book that far surpasses the many other ET books I have read before. This is not a "it happened to me" story, but a really serious investigation into areas academics fear to tread and for that alone Ellen deserves applause.
Philip Gardiner, 2006

Answers all the questions.......2006-06-05

As a true supporter of the ancient astronauts' theory, I find this book a great contribution to this field. For me personally, the AAS theory answers all the crucial questions regarding mankind's past. Who are we, were do we come from, who created us and why?
I hope that Ellen Lloyd will keep up her good work and continue where Däniken and Sitchin left off. I look forward to her next book.

Ian Martin,
London, UK

Earth From Space: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Average customer rating:

Earth From Space: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The view from above
really nice visuals
The Latest and The Best

Earth From Space: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Andrew K. Johnston
Manufacturer: Firefly Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1552978206

Book Description

Three hundred spectacular views of Earth taken by the latest generation of satellites.

For orbiting satellites, no place on Earth is isolated. The Himalayas are as easy to photograph as Manhattan. While satellite images are important for science and technical needs, they can also be appreciated for their astonishing beauty.

Earth From Space shows how satellite imaging -- also called remote sensing -- works and showcases some of the most extraordinary photographs ever published.

In the mid-1990s a new generation of satellites began to orbit the Earth. More powerful and accurate than ever, they can record the effects of human and natural forces, and how the planet is changing through time can be clearly seen.

The book also dispels popular misconceptions like those used in Hollywood movies for dramatic effect such as exaggerated surveillance capabilities of orbiting satellites. However, what the satellites do see is nothing short of spectacular.

Earth From Space presents stunning color photographs of:

Coastal ports and major world cities
Military installations such as the Russian Pacific submarine fleet
Rebuilding lower Manhattan and the Pentagon after 9/11
Landscapes of wars including Iraq and Iran
Rain forests, wetlands, coral reefs, rivers and mountains
Effects of deforestation and desertification

Earth From Space covers subjects ranging from aeronautics to history to ecology with unforgettable illustrations - an expansive big picture view of the world.

Customer Reviews:

Earth From Space: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.......2006-02-22

The condition of the book is good.
It took about 10 days to delivery the book from US to Hong Kong. The delivery is quick.

The view from above.......2005-11-10

This collection of color satellite images is fascinating and awe inspiring. Dramatic images show weather phenomena like active hurricanes, forest fires and tornado paths. Rivers, oceans, lakes and deserts illustrate the varieties of our planet and other images show how man-made constructions have altered the earth. Especially distressing are images that show the effects of deforestation and oil spills. Cities like Paris and New York are featured as well as famous structures like the pyramids, Statue of Liberty, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in New Orleans and the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur. City views alone would make a fascinating book - this volume shows aerial views of Paris, New York, Venice, San Francisco, San Diego, Pittsburg, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. One of the most memorable images is a photo of Earth taken at night showing city lights.

really nice visuals.......2005-05-22

Lots of computer graphic enhanced pics, Not alot of text, But it does have lots of pics of the natural world and human impact. A must for a geography lovers library.

The Latest and The Best .......2004-12-30

This book is incredible. To my knowledge there is no other collection available with such up-to-date (many were shot in 2003) and high-resolution photographs of our planet from space.

Most of the photos are mind-boggling. There are many instances of comparison shots that span decades. For example, a 1967 Rhodonia (province in Brazil) shot and a 2002 Rhodonia - the Amazonian deforestation as seen from space is shocking. This book is a fantastic resource for the conservation-oriented.

It is also a very aestetically pleasing book. While many photos show ecological damage, others show the wonderful wholeness of our planet. Shots of snow-covered North America (after a winter storm) were also very beautiful - I had never seen such a photo before, with great swaths of the Midwest covered in white. City shots are also very revealing.

You will have difficulty closing this book once it is opened. I give it my highest recommendation.

Seeing in the Dark : How Backyard Stargazers Are Probing Deep Space and Guarding Earth from Interplanetary Peril

Average customer rating:

A must for any stargazer!
Good Overview of Astronomy
Every Man A Galileo
A great book for those cloudy nights!
A match made in Heaven

Seeing in the Dark : How Backyard Stargazers Are Probing Deep Space and Guarding Earth from Interplanetary Peril
Timothy Ferris
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0684865793

Book Description

Seeing in the Dark is a poetic love letter to the skies and a stirring report on the revolution now sweeping amateur astronomy, in which backyard stargazers linked globally by the Internet are exploring deep space and making discoveries worthy of the professionals. Timothy Ferris invites us all to become stargazers, recounting his lifelong experiences as an enthralled stargazer, and capturing the exquisite experience when ancient starlight strikes the eye and incites the mind.

Reporting from around the globe -- from England and Italy to the Florida Keys and the Chilean Andes -- on the revolution that's putting millions in touch with the night sky, Ferris also offers an authoritative and magical description of what is out there to be seen, from the rings of Saturn to remote quasars whose light is older than Earth.

Astronomy is the most accessible and democratic of all the sciences: Anyone can get started in it just by going outside with a star chart on a dark night and looking up. A pair of binoculars suffices to see galaxies millions of light-years away, and a small telescope can probe what Ferris calls the "blue waters" of deep space. An accessible, nontechnical invitation to get to know the sky, Seeing in the Dark encourages readers to make the glories of the stars a part of their lives.

"The universe," Ferris writes, "is accessible to all, and can inform one's existence with a sense of beauty, reason, and awe as enriching as anything to be found in music, art, or poetry."

An appendix includes star charts, observing guides, and tips on how you can get involved with the night sky.

Customer Reviews:

A must for any stargazer!.......2007-07-18

Fantastic! This book is a perfect mixture of science and storytelling. This was educational and inspiring. I don't re-read many books, but this may be an exception. Loved it.

Good Overview of Astronomy.......2005-09-16

Many people, including myself, often marvel at the night sky to the point of seriously thinking of buying a telescope. The question that then arises is: What if I invest in a decent telescope, use it a few times to examine some of the celestial bodies, then eventually get bored for lack of knowing what to look at or to look for? This book attempts to help potential amateur astronomers dance around this sticking point. The author discusses the current activities of some professional but mainly amateur astronomers: what they look for, the equipment that they use, what they've found and what they continue to find. The book is well written and fun to read; it covers most areas of interest in astronomy and briefly describes what's out there. The book's only shortcoming is that it contains no figures, pictures or diagrams of any kind (other than star charts in the appendices); this is unfortunate since a few optical diagrams and pictures of the various items and people that are discussed would have complemented the text very nicely. Nevertheless, this is a great book that does much to encourage amateur astronomy. I heartily recommend it to anyone with even a passing interest in the night sky.

Every Man A Galileo.......2005-01-01

This is an informative and at times whimsical work about outer space, specifically who is doing the observing and what is being observed. The material goes considerably beyond the title, as only one chapter actually treats of near earth objects [NEO's] at depth, and I am still confused over the author's distinction between "amateur" and "professional" astronomers. With those caveats in mind, "Seeing In The Dark" is a fine overview of astronomy for those of us who have been out of school awhile and think of Pluto as the edge of the meaningful universe.

As a boy I was intrigued by astronomy and at age 10 owned an off-the shelf hand telescope that, in my recollection, simply made the bright stars brighter. I once tried to observe the crescent of Venus through my mother's hand mirror and a magnifying glass. I did get to see the rings of Saturn, finally, through the 8" telescope at the Buffalo Museum of Science, and to this day I divide the world into those who have seen that spectacle firsthand and those who haven't. Popular astronomy in the 1950's was lunar and planetary: the supposed canal system of Mars, for example, was still an issue of debate.

I lost my interest in the 1960's when astronomy became less optical and more electronic. Real observations and photos of heavenly bodies are egalitarian. Spectroscopic charts, radio waves, radar exploration and the like required time, sophisticated education, and money. Every decade or so something would catch my fancy: Apollo 11, Viking, Pioneer, Hubble, Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9, Cassini. But why should an amateur like myself spend money and time at something already being done with more precision at Arecibo in Puerto Rico or Mt. Palomar in California, or from a satellite in space, for that matter?

Timothy Ferris argues in so many words that the modern astronomical-industrial complex, so to speak, is too big and too expensive to perform some of the most critical work of present day astronomy. The author provides a plethora of examples, such as planetary weather. Most planets have atmospheres with characteristics not entirely unlike the earth's own. The atmospheres of the large outer planets [and in at least one case, a planetary satellite] have predictable patterns of wind currents and even storms that produce lightning. Mars, we have come to realize, has significant dust storms and seasonal markers. To monitor these systems, however, requires daily observations over months and years. With the crush of competition for seat time for the monster telescopes and the costs involved, such meticulous and time consuming planetary observations are gradually falling into the hands of the dedicated [and exquisitely patient] amateur backyard astronomers. The older, smaller, and midrange telescopes have come into a new age of usefulness, where persistence is of equal value to optical power. And, as the author observes, the marriage of a modest telescope with digital photography, computer controls, and Internet access to professionals, has created a formidable network of information gatherers.

Nowhere is the amateur's value of more importance than in the discovery and tracking of NEO's, asteroids whose orbits regularly criss-cross the earth's. Observation of these dangerous bodies and forecast of collisions is extremely difficult for several reasons. NEO's are hard to see [in some instances, at the 29th magnitude], only small tracks of their orbits are currently known, and they are notoriously vulnerable to gravitational influences from the earth, the sun, and even Jupiter. Science has developed a public coding system for risk from each known object, and I would venture a guess that readers will find particular stimulation from Ferris's discussion of the "Torino Scale." [As I was reading this work, I checked the day's "Torino forecast" on NASA's web site, the very day that NASA used a "Torino 4" rating for the first time, for Asteroid 2004MN4. As this occurred the same day as the Asian tsunami, little or no press coverage was devoted to the event, though astronomers around the world focused on the potential risk of a 2029 collision. The odds for 2004MN4 were downgraded to Torino 1 a few days later.]

Suffice to say that NEO's are the "high needs child" of space observation, and every verifiable observation by an amateur astronomer enables NASA and international tracking systems to add another fraction of certainty to a body's orbit. Ferris intersperses observational details of heavenly bodies with interviews of the men and women who do the observing. His use of the word "amateur" is stretched like taffy. Some of these unsalaried observers have spent six-figures in outfitting their equipment or, in some cases, pursuing doctorates to expedite their work. Some have walked away from lucrative professions and made wholesale disruptions in personal and family life on behalf of serious stargazing. In some cases "amateur" does not do justice to what is more appropriately an "obsession."

Ferris summarizes what we have come to know about planets, stars and galaxies in the past few generations of advanced study. Again, if one has not addressed astronomy systematically since school days, this work is an excellent primer on our current state of understanding the heavens. There is a thorough 25-page appendix that treats of basic stargazing information, including issues of light pollution, choice of equipment, and basic star charts, as well as a summary of periodicals and web sites. I regretted that there are no photos of any kind in the book, so we never get to see with our own eyes the quality of work produced by the amateurs in our communities. Perhaps the author was deliberately setting out to pique our curiosity, for yesterday I found myself investigating the features and price tag of a small telescope at the Brookstone's in my local mall. It's been a long time since I've done that.

A great book for those cloudy nights!.......2004-11-24

I received my copy of this book as an early Christmas present from one of my "stargazing friends". Even tho' I had glanced at this volume on bookstore shelves , I usually bypassed it for books on starhopping , star atlases , or other "hard data" type publocations. I now lament my earlier loss , and have truly enjoyed this very well written and extremely informative book.

The author , Timothy Ferris , takes us on a wonderful tour of the solar system and "near space" in the second section of the book ; he then moves on to the Milky Way and the wonders of gaseous nebulae , open star clusters ,globular clusters , and planetary nebulae within our own galaxy in section 3.

Finally , in the fourth section of the book , the author deals with the imensity of the universe (as we presently are capable of understanding it) by moving on to galaxies , and galaxy clusters.

But it isn't all about the wonders of the Heavens , for Ferris intersperses some entertaining anecdotal material as well. Starting with a personal tale of how he became a stargazer-astronomer to passages about Steven James O'Meara and his phenomonal visual observing feats while breathing oxygen at 14,000 feet on Mauna Kea. We are introduced to Barbara Wilson , a mother and former housewife who excells in actually "seeing" the faintest of astronomical objects.

This is a great book for amateur astronomers at almost any level ; the author manages to communicate his passion for the skies and the fine art of observational astronomy in a warm and entertaining manner. It is an ideal book for a frustrating evening when the clouds roll in as the sun sets , thus postponing the observing plans of the day.

I rated this book 5 stars and give it my highest recommendation. No real warts on this one!

A match made in Heaven.......2003-12-17

The match being that of science and poetry. The author writes about the achievements of amateur astronomers, giving a wealth of information about astronomy, stargazing, and amateurs, all of which is written in a language so beautifully poetic. It is a masterpiece. The love of the author for his topic is evident on every page and it is contagious. This is a book that will fill you with wonder, and probably sweep you off your feet and onto the nearest dark ground with a starmap in hand!

Book Description

This intimate and beautiful study of Earth investigates the relationship between our planet, the sun, and the moon. Why are there seasons on Earth? How does day pass into night? What protects the Earth from the sun's intense heat? Why is the surface of the Earth constantly changing? The informative text reveals how Earth's unique position in relation to the sun makes it the only planet where life is possible. The stunning full-color photographs will mesmerize young readers about the mysteries of space.

Customer Reviews:

Vivid and Engaging.......2006-10-20

I found this book at the library and am considering buying a copy for my home library. The writing was on the perfect level for a K/1st-grader and the images (beautiful color images) held my and my son's interest. It is such a quality book that it seems more like a "gift" or keepsake book than something I'd find jammed on the shelf at the library. I also appreciate that it stayed away from questions of the origins and age of the earth - so regardless of a parent or educator's take on creation/evolution, this book could be used with ease and enjoyment.

buying used? Beware!.......2006-04-12

The above review says:

"The stunning full-color photographs will mesmerize young readers about the mysteries of space.

--This text refers to the Hardcover edition."

I purchased the book Earth: Our Planet in Space (used) and it is a hardcover edition but apparently not THE hardcover edition described in the above review. The book I received is filled with black and white photographs taken from space. A complete dissapointment.

Understanding the Oceans from Space: The unique applications of satellite oceanography (Springer Praxis Books / Geophysical Sciences)

Average customer rating:

Understanding the Oceans from Space: The unique applications of satellite oceanography (Springer Praxis Books / Geophysical Sciences)
Ian S. Robinson
Manufacturer: Springer
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Earth Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books

Geophysics | Earth Sciences | Science | Subjects | Books

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Book Description

Remote sensing of oceans from space has developed rapidly since 1978 when the first dedicated ocean-viewing sensors were launched. The increasing abundance of satellite data has undoubtedly changed the way the science of oceanography has developed, revealing previously undetected ocean phenomena, casting new light on old problems, and opening the way for new fields of oceanographic study. Ian Robinson’s latest book "Understanding the Ocean from Space" takes a broadly encompassing look at the ways satellite data have been applied to the study of the ocean. Its particular theme is the special contributions or new insights that only satellite data can bring to various aspects of oceanography. Each chapter takes a particular topic in ocean science and shows the variety of ways in which the measurements made by Earth-orbiting sensors can be applied to it. The topics range from ocean waves, to ocean biology, spanning scales from ocean basins to estuaries. Some chapters primarily cover applications to pure research whilst others show how satellite data can be used operationally for tasks such as pollution monitoring or oil-spill detection.

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Humanity Under Stress
Great basic SciFi
Great collection of stories
Lyrical Science Fiction
Vintage Heinlein

The Menace From Earth
Robert A. Heinlein
Manufacturer: Baen Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Short Stories | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0671578022

Customer Reviews:

Humanity Under Stress.......2006-12-09

The Menace From Earth (1959) is a short story collection. These works were published in various magazines between 1941 and 1957.

The Year of the Jackpot concerns cyclic patterns in human beings and stars. By His Bootstraps is the classic time travel story nonpareil. Columbus Was a Dope shows the attitudes of those who go to the stars and those who disparage the whole idea, with a zinger for an ending. The Menace From Earth depicts a young couple on the Moon and a tourist who drops in for a visit.

Sky Light tells of the costs of spaceflight and human perseverance. Goldfish Bowl is about the reactions of a Naval Captain upon encountering an advanced race. Project Nightmare portrays the difficulties of defending the country using paranormal talents. Water Is for Washing accounts the trials of a hydrophobe when the sea reclaims the Imperial Valley.

These stories are about people in unusual situations and their responses to trying conditions. They demonstrate the differences between Golden Age Science Fiction and its predecessors. They are also quite entertaining.

While these stories are not equally strong, all display certain themes that return in his future works. Especially in the title story, which foreshadows Podkayne of Mars, Friday and other stories with strong female protagonists. The author was among the first SF authors to deal sympathetically with female characters, probably due to the example of his wife Virginia.

Highly recommended for Heinlein fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of strange situations, compassion, and perseverance.

-Arthur W. Jordin

Great basic SciFi.......2006-06-19

This is a great collection of basic Heinlein SciFi. The title story is about basic jealousy surrounded by miscommunication and the physics of living on the moon. The other stories explore similar kinds of territory. Recommended for exploring concepts of the future and odd bits of probability.

Great collection of stories.......2005-12-20

In "The Year of the Jackpot", a statistician graphs the points of convergence
of cyclycal events. Overlapping his graphs, he notices that the
wavy lines are approaching extremes. Interesting times.
The story "By His Bootstraps" is not logically sound: How did Bob Wilson
get to the other side of the Gate so that he could operate the Gate before
sending for the first version of himself?
"The Menace From Earth" tackles Earth Moon female jealousy.
"Sky Lift" details the heroism of a rocket pilot carying an antidote to the
Pluto colony. "Goldfish Bowl" asks: What if humans were kept as pets by
disinterested intelligent beings? "Project Nightmare" is about
Psionic humans who are able to locate nuclear devices and prevent atomic
fusion -- using psi ability. "Water is for Washing" is about a mega
earthquake that creates a new sea between the Pacific Plate and the
North American Plate. The Gulf of California extends to Los Angeles.

Lyrical Science Fiction.......2005-08-07

I grew up inspired by Science Fiction, and eventually had the privilege of working on the Space Shuttle program for several years. Of all the many SF stories I have read, The Menace From Earth has always been one of my favorites. There are other stories more technically inspiring, or with better drawn characters. There is none that conveys the sense of humans fitting in to a non-earth environment and making it their home with such ease and inspiration. When the flying starts, the story becomes simply lyrical.

Vintage Heinlein.......2004-08-07

To me, "The Menace from Earth" is the book that sealed Robert Heinlein's place as the greatest science fiction author of all times. This little collection, considered to be one of his minor works, packs more creativity than most authors display in their entire career. For instance, in the story "Goldfish Bowl" Heinlein completely reinvents the human race's role on planet Earth, to quite scary effect. That's one that you won't stop thinking about anytime soon once you've read it.

In "By his Bootstraps" we read about a fellow who gets caught in a mysterious series of events involving other versions of himself time-traveling from the future. Contrary to some claims, Heinlein did not actually invent this concpet. What he does do here is to cook up an incredibly inventive, clever, and humorous plot for the story. He does a particularly good job handling the psychologoical state of the narrator as the stream of bizarre revelations comes in.

While the other stories may not break your head quite as totally as those two, they are all memorable. "Water is for Washing", the closing entry, has some quite memorable imagery. So, for that matter, does "The Menace from Earth", a tale of teenage angst and ambition on the Moon. Overall, I give this collection of stories a hearty recommendation.

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