- Covers a wide range of astronomical topics - from observation methods to astrobiology
- Provides an easy introduction to astronomy and astrophysics
- Ideal for introductory lectures in bachelor's programmes
This textbook provides basic theoretical and practical knowledge of astronomy and astrophysics. It offers an overview of classical astronomy and observation methods, as well as solar physics and the astrophysics of stars and galaxies. The book concludes with chapters on cosmology, astrobiology, and mathematical and numerical methods. Numerous colour illustrations, sample calculations and exercises with solutions make this book a useful companion for astronomy lectures at university.
The book is suitable for students of physics and astronomy studying to become teachers or for bachelor's degrees, but anyone interested in natural sciences with a basic knowledge of mathematics and physics will also find it an appealing introduction to the subject.
This fourth edition has been updated and revised to reflect the latest developments in astronomy. The chapter on mathematical methods has been redesigned and Python is now the only software used.
From the contents:
- Spherical astronomy
- History of astronomy
- Celestial mechanics
- Astronomical instruments
- Physics of the bodies of the solar system
- The Sun
- State variables of stars
- Stellar atmospheres
- Stellar structure
- Star evolution
- Interstellar matter
- The galaxy
- Extragalactic systems
- Cosmology
- Astrobiology
- Mathematical methods
The author Arnold Hanslmeier is Professor of Astronomy at the University of Graz, where, in addition to his research work on celestial mechanics and solar physics, he has been giving introductory lectures on astronomy for many years.
