Solar system: the Sun and planets Books
Key Publishing Ltd NASA
Book Synopsis
£11.39
Icon Books Ten Tantalising Truths: Why the Sky is Blue, and
Book SynopsisObvious questions do not always have obvious answers. John Gribbin is known for giving us simple explanations of big concepts in science. But there is another way to probe the mysteries of the Universe and our place in it. Faced with persistent enquiries from his grandchildren, Gribbin realised that simple questions, such as 'Why is the sky blue?', sometimes require big answers, understandable in straightforward language. In answering those simple questions, he discovered that he was telling the story of our place in the Universe, from the Big Bang to the evolutionary reasons why men are, on average, bigger than women. The questions may be obvious, but the answers are sometimes surprising and highlight one of the main joys of science - discovering the unexpected. In this book, Gribbin invites the reader to join him on this voyage of discovery, where you may think you already know the answers but should be prepared to be surprised - or at least, tantalised by the truth.Trade ReviewGribbin takes each point and uses it both to bring in some history of science and to dive into a little more depth, while staying approachable * Popular Science *Gribbin's answers are knowledgeable, stimulating and sometimes entertaining * Nature *
£11.69
Springer London Ltd Field Guide to Meteors and Meteorites
Book SynopsisWhat is unique about Richard Norton's book is that it is both a field guide to observing meteors, and also a field guide to locating, preparing and analysing meteorites. In addition to giving the reader information about observing techniques for meteors, this book also provides a fully detailed account of the types of meteorites, how and where to find them, how to prepare and analyse them. The book provides everything the amateur astronomer (or geologist!) needs to know about meteors and meteorites. It is thus the only complete book on the subject available at present.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: "The average age of most meteorites is 4.6 billion years. … This groundbreaking book … is the most concise guide to date on every aspect of this fascinating field. The authors combine the collecting, study and hunting of meteorites with good advice on equipment and identification techniques. … it is equally suited to beginner and expert with well-illustrated page-by-page descriptions of each meteorite sub-type. … This is an impressive book containing everything you need to know about these remarkable cosmic treasures." (Mark Ford, BBC Sky at Night, September, 2008) "This practical reference source … goes beyond the well-illustrated guide to help meteorite hunters identify their prize (with detailed color photos), and includes the astronomical context needed to understand meteorites and their Earth-bound predecessors, meteoroids. … A mineral glossary and references (print and online) supplement the text. … Summing Up: Recommended. General audiences and all undergraduate students." (L.R. Johnston, Choice, Vol. 46 (5), January, 2009) "This is a magnificent book and a must for anyone who is interested in our solar system and its formation. … A wonderful segment is included on what meteorites look like in thin section and it is a glorious world indeed. … If you do, or if you wish to find you own, or if you just wish to learn more about the environment our Earth inhabits, you will want a copy of this outstanding book." (Amazon, November, 2008) 2009 Best Reference Work- "Field Guide to Meteors and Meteorites" by O. Richard Norton and Lawrence A. Chitwood received the Mary B. Ansari Best Reference Work Award. The book is both a guide to observing meteors and a practical handbook for meteorite hunters. Abundant information on locating, preparing, and analyzing meteorites is presented. The work’s comprehensive treatment, fine color illustrations, and accessibility to a wide audience were winning points in the selection committee’s decision. "Meteorite information has been scattered, hard to find and difficult to interpret – sort of like meteorites themselves," commented committee member Dennis Trombatore. "The Field Guide is a powerful reference tool. It will inspire, enlighten and inform everyone who uses it.""Table of ContentsPART I : Origin and Early History of Asteroids and Meteorites Chapter 1: Interplanetary Dust: the role of Comets and Asteroids Chapter 2: Observing and Imaging Meteors Sporadic Meteors Meteor Showers – Leonids, Perseids, etc. Chapter 3: From the asteroid belt to Earth Chapter 4: Fireballs and the fall of Meteorites Chapter 5: Impact craters of the Solar System Chapter 6: Searching for meteorites in the field PART II: The Family of Meteorites Chapter 7: Chondrites, the most common stony meteorites Chapter 8: Achondrites, pieces of melted asteroid crusts Chapter 9: Iron meteorites, cores of differentiated asteroids Chapter 10: Stony-irons, the enigmatic meteorites Chapter 11: Meteorites from the Moon and Mars Chapter 12: Meteorites from comets? PART III: Analyzing Meteorites Chapter 13: Meteorite external morphology Chapter 14: Cutting, grinding and polishing meteorites Chapter 15: Weathering of meteorites Chapter 16: Preserving meteorites Chapter 17: Meteorite interiors: a microscopic journey PART IV: The Meteorite Market Chapter 18: Buying, selling and trading meteorites
£33.24
Imperial College Press Inverted Bowl, The: Introductory Accounts Of The
Book SynopsisThe present well-established study of planets orbiting stars other than our Sun, the exoplanets, was reviewed by the author in his earlier book Wandering Stars. This new and exciting field of study has expanded quickly, particularly due to technological advances in both Earth-based telescopes and, more recently, in the application of automatic space vehicles. Well over 300 exoplanets have now been catalogued, each of mass comparable to or greater than those of the major planets of the Solar System. Earth-sized bodies remain out of reach for the present. The data obtained so far show that the distribution of major planets in our Solar System is the exception rather than the rule, contrary to earlier expectations. A few exoplanet systems do, nevertheless, give the promise of broadly Solar System conditions with the possibility of Earth-like components in appropriate orbits.This immediately raises the age-old question of whether there can be life elsewhere in the Universe and whether this might involve advanced technologically-capable beings like ourselves. The topic is explored in this workbook. To gain a balanced perspective on these matters, the arguments are set against the broad panorama of the Universe on the one hand and on the evolution of life on Earth leading to Homo sapiens on the other. More than this, the apparatus for achieving technological excellence, such as the development of appropriate energy sources and the invention of the required mathematical skills, is also included. This wide range of arguments is unusual.This notebook-cum-workbook provides a firm and comprehensive introduction to these studies. It is written by an expert in the field for readers beginning to ponder these questions seriously. It is hoped that the reader will extend the arguments further as the subject develops. A special feature is an extensive compendium to act as the beginnings of a personal inventory. The Inverted Bowl is in a very real sense a companion to Wandering Stars.Table of ContentsPlanets Orbiting the Sun and Other Stars; The Dynamic Earth; Life in Water: The Precambrian; Life Develops in the Phanerozoic; Hominids - Homo Sapiens; A Universe of Exo-Life?; Appendices: A Cosmic Universe Revealed; The Local Universe; The Strange World of the Atom; Sources of Energy; The Language of Science: Mathematics.
£67.45
Imperial College Press Inverted Bowl, The: Introductory Accounts Of The
Book SynopsisThe present well-established study of planets orbiting stars other than our Sun, the exoplanets, was reviewed by the author in his earlier book Wandering Stars. This new and exciting field of study has expanded quickly, particularly due to technological advances in both Earth-based telescopes and, more recently, in the application of automatic space vehicles. Well over 300 exoplanets have now been catalogued, each of mass comparable to or greater than those of the major planets of the Solar System. Earth-sized bodies remain out of reach for the present. The data obtained so far show that the distribution of major planets in our Solar System is the exception rather than the rule, contrary to earlier expectations. A few exoplanet systems do, nevertheless, give the promise of broadly Solar System conditions with the possibility of Earth-like components in appropriate orbits.This immediately raises the age-old question of whether there can be life elsewhere in the Universe and whether this might involve advanced technologically-capable beings like ourselves. The topic is explored in this workbook. To gain a balanced perspective on these matters, the arguments are set against the broad panorama of the Universe on the one hand and on the evolution of life on Earth leading to Homo sapiens on the other. More than this, the apparatus for achieving technological excellence, such as the development of appropriate energy sources and the invention of the required mathematical skills, is also included. This wide range of arguments is unusual.This notebook-cum-workbook provides a firm and comprehensive introduction to these studies. It is written by an expert in the field for readers beginning to ponder these questions seriously. It is hoped that the reader will extend the arguments further as the subject develops. A special feature is an extensive compendium to act as the beginnings of a personal inventory. The Inverted Bowl is in a very real sense a companion to Wandering Stars.Table of ContentsPlanets Orbiting the Sun and Other Stars; The Dynamic Earth; Life in Water: The Precambrian; Life Develops in the Phanerozoic; Hominids - Homo Sapiens; A Universe of Exo-Life?; Appendices: A Cosmic Universe Revealed; The Local Universe; The Strange World of the Atom; Sources of Energy; The Language of Science: Mathematics.
£38.00
Imperial College Press On The Origin Of Planets: By Means Of Natural
Book SynopsisThe book begins with a historical review of four major theories for the origin of the Solar System in particular, or of planets in general, which highlight the major problems that need to be solved by any plausible theory. In many theories, including that which form the major theme of this book, the formation of planets and stars is intimately linked, so four chapters are devoted to the processes that can be described as the birth, life and death of stars.Recent observations that have revealed the existence of planets around many Sun-like stars are described in detail, followed by a clear exposition of the Capture Theory for the origin of planets. Many aspects of this theory are illustrated with sophisticated computer modelling that convincingly demonstrates the plausibility of the theory. The Capture Theory is in complete accord with all observations, including the estimate it gives for the proportion of Sun-like stars with planets. It is the only theory that sits comfortably with all present observational and theoretical constraints.The general theory of planet formation does not explain the detailed structure of the Solar System. An early postulated collision of two major planets is shown to explain many disparate features of the Solar System — the nature of the terrestrial planets, surface features of the Moon and its relationship with Earth, asteroids, comets and dwarf planets, the relationship between Neptune, Triton and Pluto and the characteristics of meteorites, including the isotopic anomalies found in them. The postulate of a planetary collision is given support by a 2009 NASA observation of the residue of such an event around a distant young star.Table of ContentsObservations of Stars; Producing Protostars - Stars in Embryo; The Life and Death of a Star; Evolution of a Galactic Cluster; Exoplanets - Planets Around Other Stars; The Formation of Planets; Orbital Evolution; The Frequency of Planetary Systems; Satellite Formation; Features of the Solar System; Planetary Interactions; Mars and Mercury; The Moon; Asteroids, Comets and the Kuiper Belt; Neptune and Pluto; Meteorites and Isotopic Anomalies.
£71.25
Imperial College Press On The Origin Of Planets: By Means Of Natural
Book SynopsisThe book begins with a historical review of four major theories for the origin of the Solar System in particular, or of planets in general, which highlight the major problems that need to be solved by any plausible theory. In many theories, including that which form the major theme of this book, the formation of planets and stars is intimately linked, so four chapters are devoted to the processes that can be described as the birth, life and death of stars.Recent observations that have revealed the existence of planets around many Sun-like stars are described in detail, followed by a clear exposition of the Capture Theory for the origin of planets. Many aspects of this theory are illustrated with sophisticated computer modelling that convincingly demonstrates the plausibility of the theory. The Capture Theory is in complete accord with all observations, including the estimate it gives for the proportion of Sun-like stars with planets. It is the only theory that sits comfortably with all present observational and theoretical constraints.The general theory of planet formation does not explain the detailed structure of the Solar System. An early postulated collision of two major planets is shown to explain many disparate features of the Solar System — the nature of the terrestrial planets, surface features of the Moon and its relationship with Earth, asteroids, comets and dwarf planets, the relationship between Neptune, Triton and Pluto and the characteristics of meteorites, including the isotopic anomalies found in them. The postulate of a planetary collision is given support by a 2009 NASA observation of the residue of such an event around a distant young star.Table of ContentsObservations of Stars; Producing Protostars - Stars in Embryo; The Life and Death of a Star; Evolution of a Galactic Cluster; Exoplanets - Planets Around Other Stars; The Formation of Planets; Orbital Evolution; The Frequency of Planetary Systems; Satellite Formation; Features of the Solar System; Planetary Interactions; Mars and Mercury; The Moon; Asteroids, Comets and the Kuiper Belt; Neptune and Pluto; Meteorites and Isotopic Anomalies.
£38.95
Oneworld Publications Music of the Sun: The Story of Helioseismology
Book SynopsisFour hundred years after Kepler discovered his third law of planetary motion, disproving the Pythagorean notion of ‘the music of the spheres’, music was discovered in the Sun. With this discovery the science of helioseismology was born. Just as we can see the face of a foetus in the womb via ultrasound, and as bats can ‘see’ their way around using sonar, helioseismologists can now see inside the depths of the sun simply by listening to it. In The Music of the Sun, renowned helioseismologist William Chaplin tells the story of this discipline’s origins and gives us invaluable insight into its implications – not only for better understanding the distant sun and stars – but for cosmology, particle physics, and the very relationship between the Sun and the Earth.Trade Review"An excellent introduction. Recommended for solar physicists and laypersons" * Choice *Table of ContentsForeword xi Acknowledgments xv 1 Introduction 1 2 Our Star, the Sun 11 3 How to Make a Star Ring 33 4 The Story Begins 57 5 Going Global 81 6 Early Successes 111 7 Taking in the Sun’s Rays 137 8 From Particle Physics to Cosmology 175 9 In a Spin 206 10 Getting Active – the Solar Cycle 231 11 The Present and Future 273 Index 287
£27.00
Springer London Ltd Solar Observing Techniques
Book SynopsisAstronomers and students interested in studying the Sun require a thorough understanding of the proper techniques and equipment. Safety precautions are paramount, as the intensity of the heat and light can instantly blind the untrained observer. In this book, Kitchin provides all the information needed for safe observation as well as novel techniques that will make solar observation a rewarding experience.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: "This book is part of a series aimed at the newcomer to astronomy. In many respects the author fulfills this aim very well … . The book is well illustrated with drawings and photographs – over 30 of which are in colour. … If … you are keen on becoming a solar observer, make a space on your bookshelf for this book. Or if, like me, you are established in solar observing, keep it as a reference for when you take up CCD imaging … ." (Brian Halls, Astronomy Now, April, 2002) "This book forms part of Patrick Moore’s Practical Astronomy Series … . it discusses the safety precautions that need to be taken in such a way as to be informative and not to scare someone from making solar observations. … The book also gives sufficient information for someone, for example, to attempt taking photographs or CCD images of the Sun. … I think this book will encourage amateur astronomers to take up solar observing … ." (Peter Meadows, The Astronomer, Vol. 38 (450), 2001) "This book deserves to be in every observational astronomer’s possession. In just over 200 pages, excellent and clear descriptions, advice on solar observing methods – most of them within the reach of amateur astronomers – are given. … The many illustrations and diagrams are all relevant and well chosen, as are the (not too many!) equations. … This book is wonderful value and should encourage all amateur astronomers to observe our nearest star. A nice, warm welcome to this book." (Richard Bailey, Popular Astronomy, October, 2001)Table of Contents1 The Sun — What to See and Why.- Beginnings.- Sunspots.- Sunspot Cycle.- Limb Darkening, Granulation and Faculae.- Limb Darkening.- Granulation.- Faculae.- Narrow Band Observations.- Chromospheric Network.- Prominences and Filaments.- Flares.- Eclipses.- 2 General Telescopic Observing Techniques.- Full Aperture Filters.- Filter Basics.- Telescope Basics.- Full Aperture Solar Filters.- Projection.- Telescopes.- Binoculars.- Other Approaches.- Reflection.- Solar Diagonals.- Sextants.- Optimising Your Telescope.- Diffraction.- Aberration.- Optics.- Seeing.- Stray Light.- 3 White Light Observing.- Sunspots.- Limb Darkening.- Granulation.- Faculae.- 4 Recording Your Observations.- Drawing.- Photography.- Projected Images.- Full Aperture Filters.- Magnified Imaging.- Conventional Cameras.- CCD Cameras.- Image Processing.- Data Reduction.- Image Enhancement.- Video Cameras.- 5 Observing Programmes.- The Sunspot Cycle.- Active Regions.- Solar Rotation.- 6 Unaided Observations.- Projected Images.- Filters.- Full Aperture Filters.- Welder’s Goggles.- 7 Eclipses.- Eclipses.- Eclipse Expeditions.- Naked Eye Observing.- Binoculars and Telescopes.- Visual Observations.- Imaging.- Photographic and Digital Cameras.- Astronomical CCD Cameras.- Video Cameras.- Shadow Band Imaging.- Observing Programme.- Specialist Instrumentation.- Radial Density Filters.- Slitless Spectroscopes.- Transits.- 8 Specialist Instruments.- Narrow Band Filters.- H? Filters.- Lyot Monochromators.- Spectroscopy.- A Spectroscope.- Prominence Spectroscope.- Spectrohelioscope.- Coronagraph.- Solar Telescopes.- 9 Radio Telescopes.- 10 The Limits of Solar Observation.- Magnetic Fields.- Spacecraft.- Solar Oscillations.- Solar Image Gallery.- Appendix 1 Bibliography.- Appendix 2 Equipment Suppliers.- Appendix 3 Web Sites Relating to the Sun.
£33.24
Clinical Press Ltd Life on Mars: And in the Cosmos
Book SynopsisA NASA-funded team of scientists has announced that there is evidence of previous life on Mars. This book analyses the results from the meteorite ALH84001, critically interprets the information from the Vikings 1 and 2 space probes to Mars and looks at the evidence of organic material in the Cosmos. The overwhelmingly most likely explanation and by far the simplest interpretation of all the findings is that life is a cosmic phenomenon seeding the Earth and Mars.
£14.88
Rudolf Steiner Press Signature of the Celestial Spheres: Discovering
Book Synopsis"A milestone in modern research on the the harmony of the spheres." - Novalis magazine "This book reignites the debate on the harmony of the spheres." - Das Goetheanum Is the solar system ordered, or is it simply the result of random and chaotic accidents? This book takes us on a powerful and compelling journey of discovery, revealing the celestial spheres' astonishingly complex patterns. The movements of the planets are found to correspond accurately with simple geometric figures and musical intervals, pointing to an exciting new perspective on the ancient idea of a "harmony of the spheres". Hartmut Warm's detailed presentation incorporates the distances, velocities and periods of conjunction of the planets, as well as the rotations of the Sun, Moon and Venus. Numerous graphics - including colour plates - illustrate the extraordinary beauty of the geometrical forms that result when the movements of several planets are viewed in relation to one another. In addition, the author describes and analyses the concepts of the "music of the spheres", with special consideration given to Johannes Kepler's revolutionary ideas. Current scientific beliefs about the origin of the universe and the solar system are explained, enabling the reader to understand fully how Warm's remarkable research supplements contemporary materialistic views of the cosmos. An appendix includes his mathematical and astronomical methods of calculation as well as detailed discussion of their accuracy and validity based on modern astronomical algorithms.
£22.50
Collector's Guide Publishing Mars
Book SynopsisIf you always thought that it was Giovanni Schiaparelli who first coined the phrase ''Canali'' pertaining to the straight lines he appeared to observe on Mars you''d be wrong. In 1858 an astronomer working at the Vatican observatory named father Pietro Angelo Secchi took it upon himself to create his own drawings of Mars. The red planet was now nearing a close approach to earth and the powerful Vatican telescope was capable of resolving detail previously invisible to most astronomers. Secchi thought he saw a series of straight lines on the Martian surface so he made an innocuous notation in his notes. His sketches and articles were published in 1859 in which he referred several times to ''Canale Atlantico'' or ''Canale Ceruleo''. His regrettable choice of words would not have an impact for another eight years. This volume tells not only of people and places that have influenced mankind''s relationship with the enigmatic red planet, but it also shows you the colour drawings that Secchi made, which were provided to us directly by the Vatican itself. Along with many other interesting stories, drawings and photographs this book will be a prize for both the novice or ardent student of Mars.
£8.54
The Squeeze Press In Love with Venus: A Touch of Astronomy Can
Book Synopsis
£9.49
National Maritime Museum Planets
Book SynopsisFrom a planet with a hexagonal storm to the home of the Solar System's largest volcano, our neighbouring bodies are unique and fascinating places. Where else would you find somewhere with days longer than its years? Humanity's understanding of planets has changed drastically since ancient times when early astronomers mistook the lights they saw in the sky for wandering stars. We've come a long way since then, but there's still so much we don't know. Could there be life on Mars? How many planets exist outside the Solar System? Is there another 'Earth' out there? And why can't we call Pluto a planet anymore? Discover more in this essential guide to planets in the Solar System and beyond by astronomer Dr Emily Drabek-Maunder of Royal Observatory Greenwich.Table of ContentsIntroduction In the Beginning: The Birth of a Solar System Navigating Our Solar System Small but Mighty: The Rocky Planets Serene Giants: The Outer Planets Everything Left Over: Dwarf Planets, Comets, Asteroids and Meteoroids Alien Worlds: Our Search for Exoplanets A Final Note: Is There Life in the Universe Other Than on Earth? Glossary
£9.49
National Maritime Museum Black Holes
Book SynopsisBlack holes seem like the stuff of science fiction, but the reality behind these astronomical objects is even more peculiar. So strong is the gravity within a black hole not even light can escape it, but that is just one piece of the puzzle. The science behind black holes is notoriously complex, but this concise introduction reveals how some general principles form the basis of our understanding of them, before exploring the possibilities of time travel, wormholes and spaghettification (not as tasty as it sounds!). Astronomer Dr Ed Bloomer gives you a whistle-stop guide to the fate of the Universe, the mechanics of a black hole and, most importantly, instructions for what to do should you fall into one! Discover how scientists detect these amazing phenomena and why you should probably avoid them at all costs.
£9.49
National Maritime Museum The Sun
Book SynopsisThe enormous significance of the Sun to our lives has been felt ever since ominous eclipses and mysterious sunspots were observed many thousands of years ago. Scientists and astronomers from many different fields have contributed over the centuries to the rich knowledge we have of the Sun and its relationship with the Earth. What is the Sun made of? What is the solar wind? What could magnetism have to do with the Sun? How have scientists made these discoveries, and what does it all mean for us here on Earth? And what of the deep scientific mysteries that remain unresolved? Understanding our closest star has never been more important. Delve into the secrets of the Sun in this guide from Brendan Owens, Astronomer Emeritus for Royal Observatory Greenwich and Open Science Coordinator at Science Gallery at Trinity College Dublin.
£9.49
National Maritime Museum The Universe
Book SynopsisGiven that it includes literally everything in existence, it’s not surprising that the Universe is the source of some of the greatest mysteries in physics. How big is it? How did it begin? And, perhaps more worryingly, how will it end? Through cosmology, the study of the evolution and structure of the Universe, experts have been attempting to untangle these tricky topics for centuries. They have found the faint traces of the Big Bang and shown that our Universe is expanding at a phenomenal rate. However, while their efforts have forged our core understanding of physics and earned them a number of Nobel Prizes, there is much that eludes us still. Explore the secrets of the cosmos with astronomer Dr Greg Brown as he entertains our fascination with impossible questions in this pocket guide to everything that ever was and ever will be.
£9.49
National Maritime Museum Mars
Book SynopsisAs one of the five planets that can be seen in the night sky without the aid of a telescope, Mars has been a source of fascination for millennia. What is it about this dusty, dry world that has captured our imaginations so completely? Astronomer Patricia Skelton investigates our relationship with Mars, beginning with the earliest observations and the curious conundrums they generated and ending with our ambitious plans for future space missions. She explores how the Red Planet helped solve the mysteries of planetary motion, sparked furious debates about the possibilities of other life in the Solar System, became an early target of space exploration and has since been a testing ground for remarkable new technologies. Over the past 60 years, Mars has played host to a succession of spacecraft, landers and rovers that continue to expand our knowledge and have also inspired us to venture further. As we look to the future, how long will it be before astronauts join them on the distant planet's surface?
£10.44
National Maritime Museum Moons
Book SynopsisMoons come, quite literally, in all shapes and sizes. Our Moon is just one of more than 200 moons in the Solar System that we've identified so far. Scientists have discovered moons made of rock, others of ice. There are moons with atmospheres or with oceans hidden beneath their surfaces, and even some with active volcanoes. Others could perhaps be suitable for life! Astronomer Anna Gammon-Ross of Royal Observatory Greenwich travels through the Solar System, hopping from one moon to the next, to discover not only what these natural satellites have in common, but also what makes each one unique. Learn about the moons that can be found in and around Saturn's rings (and the many others we suspect there could be), the objects orbiting the distant dwarf planets and the curious theory of moon-moons.
£10.44
Smith Street Books Solar System: An illustrated guide to our home in
Book SynopsisTake an awe-inspiring and informative journey through the Solar System with this beautifully illustrated deck. Featuring the Sun and all of the major objects in its orbit, including the planets, their moons, the dwarf planets and more, this deck will launch you into an exploration of Earth’s closest neighbors. The Solar System Deck is perfect for space enthusiasts and armchair astronauts, young and old, full of facts that are out of this world.
£17.55
National Science Teachers Association Solar Science: Exploring Sunspots, Seasons,
Book SynopsisThis is just the resource you need to get middle schoolers ready for August 21, 2017—the day when millions of North Americans will have the rare chance to witness a total solar eclipse. But the book’s usefulness won’t end when the eclipse does! Solar Science offers more than three dozen hands-on, inquiry-based activities on many fascinating aspects of solar astronomy. The activities cover the Sun’s motions, space weather caused by the Sun, the measuring of time and seasons in our daily lives, and much more.The authors are award-winning experts in both astronomy and science education, so they know how to prompt students to work like scientists by asking questions, doing experiments, comparing notes, and refining and reporting results. They also know you have to make the most of every instructional minute. The book contains plenty of ideas for related writing projects; grade-appropriate math examples; and connections to music, art, fiction, and history. It’s also aligned with the three-dimensional learning encouraged by the Next Generation Science Standards and connects to the Common Core State Standards.Solar Science is ideal for teachers, informal science educators, youth group leaders, curriculum specialists, and teacher trainers. You can use these versatile activities one at a time, as the basis of a stand-alone unit on the Sun, or as a comprehensive curriculum. You get to determine the best way for your students to learn a lot while having fun with the Sun.
£42.95
Springer Nature Switzerland AG Chelyabinsk Superbolide
Book SynopsisOn February 15, 2013, the Chelyabinsk meteor sailed over Russian skies in a streak of light that was momentarily brighter than the Sun. The remarkable event and its subsequent shock wave were witnessed and documented by countless local residents, launching a widespread scientific expedition to gather and study the remaining meteoritic fragments.This book chronicles Chelyabinsk’s tale of recovery and discovery from the minds of many of the scientists who studied the superbolide, leading field experiments and collecting meteorites and meteorite dust across the region. The Chelyabinsk superbolide is a complex and multi-aspect phenomenon. The book not only presents the results of the scientific research but also details the firsthand experiences of those involved in such efforts, providing readers with a unique opportunity to look at the "inner workings" of science that are seldom shown to the public.Over the course of their studies, the scientists collected over 200 photographs and a dozen video recordings taken by nearly 40 different eyewitnesses. Many of those never-before-published illustrations and photos can be found in full color in the pages of this book.Trade Review“It is … suitable for most non-specialists and contains many colour photographs not seen elsewhere. … All in all, a very useful summary of the effects of the superbolide, and a book to be recommended.” (Storm Dunlop, The Observatory, Vol. 141 (1281), April, 2021)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements.- Dedication.- Preface.- 1. Meteors, meteorites and the Chelyabinsk superbolide: main facts.- 2. A million observers of the superbolide.- 3. The fate of the fiery serpent.- 4. Meteorite rush: the collection of sky stones.- 5. The hunt for cosmic dust.- 6. Chebarkul meteorite ice hole.- 7. Underwater excavations and welcoming the Big Meteorite.- 8. Why the stone exploded.- 9. Chemical composition, structure and age of the Chelyabinsk bolide.- 10. Meteorology of the superbolide or super-experiment in the atmosphere.- 11. Dust ring around the Earth caused by the Chelyabinsk bolide.- 12. Basalt threads in the dust of the Chelyabinsk bolide: Pele’s hair analog.- 13. Frequency of meteorite falls.- 14. How to protect Earth from meteoroids, asteroids and comets.- 15. The cultural aftershock of the Chelyabinsk bolide.- Appendix: The lonely Moon, double asteroids, and multiple collisions.- Index.
£23.11
Springer Nature Switzerland AG Problems of Geocosmos–2020: Proceedings of the
Book SynopsisThis book addresses the problems of Geocosmos and provides a snapshot of the current research in a broad area of Earth Sciences carried out in Russia and elsewhere. The themes covered include solar physics, physics of magnetosphere, ionosphere and atmosphere, solar-terrestrial coupling links, seismology, geoelectricity, paleomagnetism and rock magnetism, as well as cross-disciplinary studies. The proceedings are carefully edited, providing a panoramic outlook of a broad area of Earth Sciences. The readership includes colleague researchers, students and early career scientists. The proceedings will help the readers to look at their research fields from various points of view. Problems of Geocosmos conferences are held by Earth Physics Department, St. Petersburg University bi-annually since 1994. It is the largest forum of this kind in Russia/former Soviet Union attracting up to 200 researchers in Earth and magnetospheric physics.
£125.99
Springer Nature Switzerland AG Perseverance and the Mars 2020 Mission: Follow
Book SynopsisThis is the comprehensive story of NASA’s pioneering Mars 2020 mission, which at this moment continues to break ground on the surface of the Red Planet.The book takes readers through every stage of the Mars mission, describing its major goals and objectives, the cutting-edge technology and instrumentation onboard the Perseverance rover and other spacecraft components, and the members of the scientific team who steered the mission along the way. Mars 2020 is the first to actually take samples of the Red Planet and prepare them for subsequent return to Earth. The chapters therefore delve into how and why Jezero Crater was selected as the optimal landing and sample collecting site to meet the mission objectives. Featuring dozens of high-resolution images of the mission, this book gives readers a deeper understanding of the technology underlying Mars 2020 and why its work is so important for planetary science and space exploration.Table of Contents Note: The final Contents will only go to two digits; the three digits shown only serve to help the editor and author keep track of the text.Frontispiece Dedication Acknowledgments Foreword Preface 1 Introduction 2 The Mars 2020 Mission 2.1 Science Goals 2.1.1 Goal 1: Determine whether life ever existed on Mars 2.1.2 Goal 2: Characterize the Climate of Mars 2.1.3 Goal 3: Characterize the Geology of Mars 2.1.4 Goal 4: Prepare for Human Exploration 2.2 Science Objectives 2.2.1Geology 2.2.2 Astrobiology 2.2.3 Sample Caching 2.2.4 Prepare for Humans 2.3 Mission Phases 2.3.1. Pre-launch Activities 2.3.2 Launch 2.3.3 Cruise 2.3.4 Approach 2.3.5 Entry, Descent and Landing 2.3.6 Instrument Checks and First Drive 2.3.7 Surface Operations 3 Perseverance’s Design 3.1 Evolution 3.1.1 Curiosity 3.1.2 Perseverance 3.2 Components 3.2.1 Body 3.2.2 Brains 3.2.3 Eyes and other Senses 3.2.4 Wheels and Legs 3.2.5 Arm and Turret 3.2.6 Sample Handling 3.2.7 Communications 3.2.8 Markings 3.3 Perseverance Stages and Elements 3.3.1 Cruise Stage 3.3.2 Descent Stage 3.3.3 Backshell 3.3.4 Heat Shield 3.3.5 Energy Source 3.4 Instruments 3.4.1 Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) 3.4.2 Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment (MOXIE) 3.4.3 Planetary Instrument for X-ray Lithochemistry (PIXL) 3.4.4 Radar Imager for Mars' Subsurface Experiment (RIMFAX) 3.4.5 Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman & Luminescence for Organics & Chemicals (SHERLOC) 4 Landing Site 4.1 Site Selection Criteria 4.1.1 The Landing Site Selection Committee 4.1.2 Committee Selection Criteria 4.1.3 Mars Sample Return Considerations 4.1.4 Landing Site Workshops 4.1.5 Final Recommendation 4.2 Jezero Crater 4.2.1 Landing Targeting 4.3 Surface Operations 4.3.1 Commissioning 4.3.2 Science Phase 5 Early Science Results (to be expanded during the book development) 5.1 Initial Campaign to the South 5.1.1 Sample Caching System 5.1.2 Sampling Approach 5.1.3 First Sample Attempt at Cratered Floor Fractured Rough 5.1.4 Assessment 5.1.5 Second Attempt in South Séítah 5.1.6 Assessment 5.2 Second Campaign to the Delta Region 5.2.1 Three Forks 5.2.2 Other sites 5.3 Subsequent Campaigns 6 Ingenuity 6.1 Objectives 6.2 Technical Specifications 6.2 Flight Log 6.3 Flight Highlights 6.3 Future Helicopters 7 Mars 2020 Science and Engineering Teams 7.1 NASA Headquarters 7.1.1 Associate Administrator 7.1.2 Science Mission Directorate 7.2 Jet Propulsion Laboratory 7.2.1 Science Office 7.2.2 Engineering Office 7.2.3 Flight Systems 7.2.4 Surface Development 7.2.5 Flight Operations 7.2.6 Payload 7.2.7 Mission Assurance 7.2.8 Business/Administration 8 Mars Sample Return 8.1 The Overall Plan 8.2 Sample Retriever Lander 8.3 ESA’s Sample Fetch Rover 8.4 Mars Ascent Vehicle 8.5 Earth Return Orbiter 8.6 Earth Entry Vehicle 8.7 Receiving Facility 8.8 Planetary Protection 9 Conclusions Appendices 1 Mars Exploration Program 2 Planetary Science Decadal Surveys 3 Mission Team and International Partners 4 Timeline 5 Quotes X (Possibly others) References Internet Links and Videos Glossary and Terminology About the Author Index
£28.49
Springer Nature Switzerland AG Star Mentor: Hands-On Projects and Lessons in
Book SynopsisThis is a hands-on guide for both the budding astronomer in need of a mentor and the seasoned observer who wants to learn how to effectively share their knowledge with newcomers.Through decades of teaching observational astronomy at the high school and college level, Dr. Daniel E. Barth has inspired thousands of beginners, and in this book he shares the many ways that you can learn and teach others, too. The chapters contain a plethora of practical projects in observational astronomy that can be done on your own or with others, delighting any hobbyist with the many wonders of the night sky.The activities are tailored for different skill levels, always starting from the basics and working their way up to more challenging tasks. They can be done outdoors with a telescope or indoors with a few simple materials, depending on the sky conditions and time of year. Make astronomy fun for all with these engaging DIY projects, which include step-by-step instructions for modeling, sketching, observing, recording, and many other interactive exercises. Appropriate for the amateur who wants to teach their passion, the beginner who has their very first telescope, the binocular owner, and even those who do not yet own equipment, Star Mentor is your guide to forming and sharing a lifelong love for astronomy.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Becoming a Star Mentor· What is a Star Mentor? · Teaching to Learn · How to be an Effective Mentor · Capitalizing on Interest · Activities Indoors and Out · Setting Hearts Afire Chapter 2: Teaching the Visual Sky · Welcome to the ‘Bowl of Night’ – the Motions of the Sky · Circumpolar Constellations · Spring · Summer · Winter · Fall · The Zodiac Chapter 3: Measuring the Sky · The Poles and the Equator · Measuring Distances and Angles · The Ecliptic and the Galactic Plane · Altitude-Azimuth Coordinates · Right Ascension-Declination Coordinates Chapter 4: Meet Your Neighbor – Learning about the Moon · Exploring Lunar Phases · Sunrise and Sunset on the Moon · The Moon in Orbit · Lunar Geography with Binoculars · Lunar Surface Features with a Telescope Chapter 5: Introducing the Inner Planets · The Classic Planets and the Ecliptic · Mercury – Observing Near the Sun · Venus – Planetary Phases and the Heliocentric System Chapter 6: Welcome to Mars · Mars – Opposition and Observation · Polar Caps · Surface Features · Sand Storms Chapter 7: Discovering the Outer Planets · Jupiter – o Cloud Bands o Storms Systems o Moons – Orbits and Occultations · Saturn – o Rings and the Roche Limit o Ring Gaps o Many Moons Chapter 8: Star Clusters and Nebulae · Globular Clusters · Open Clusters · Star Forming Regions and Nebulosity · Emission Nebulae · Reflection Nebulae Chapter 9: Galaxies · The Milky Way o Bright and Dark Regions o The Galactic Plane · The Andromeda Galaxy · The Magellanic Clouds · Other Deep Galaxies Chapter 10: Telescopes for Beginners · The Binocular · The Newtonian Reflector · The Galilean Refractor · The Schmidt-Cassegrain · The Alt-Az Mount · The Equatorial Mount · Computerized Mounts
£25.83
Springer Nature Switzerland AG Solar Surveyors: Observing the Sun from Space
Book SynopsisThis is the story of humankind’s quest over centuries to learn the true nature of the most dominant object in our Solar System: the Sun.Award-winning science writer Peter Bond describes in detail how our ideas about the Sun have changed over the millennia, starting with the simple observations of classical astronomy and continuing through telescopic observations to the age of nuclear physics. He shows how we discovered the Sun’s basic characteristics – its distance, size, temperature and composition – and then describes how, with evermore sophisticated instruments, we have learned about the Sun’s enormous energy output, its atmosphere and the explosive eruptions that blast clouds of magnetized gas and high-energy particles toward our world.Most of this book focuses on the Space Age, when suborbital rockets and satellites have probed every aspect of our nearby star. Each of these missions is described in detail, with summaries of their objectives, spacecraft designs, scientific payloads and results. The book also looks forward, describing forthcoming missions that will shed new light on remaining solar mysteries, notably the source of the energy that heats the outer corona to millions of degrees.Richly illustrated with mission photos, design diagrams, and infocharts, this book is a fascinating read for anybody interested in the Sun and our attempts to unravel its secrets.Table of ContentsSection 1 - Background1.The Sun - an introduction, including day/night, seasons, eclipses, early observations. 2.The main solar features: interior, corona, sunspots, coronal mass ejections, flares, prominences, filaments, solar wind etc.3. Observing the Sun - the electromagnetic spectrum, capabilities and limitations of ground-based observatories. Sounding rockets.Section 2 - The MissionsTechnical descriptions of space-based solar missions and their main scientific contributions:4.Characterising the Interplanetary Environment The first lunar and planetary missions (Luna, Explorer etc.), missions such as Genesis, Helios IBEX (Interstellar Boundary Explorer), Voyager, Interplanetary Monitoring Platforms ISSE (International Sun-Earth Explorers), Koronas, Pioneer 6-8, Prognoz series, Solwind.5.Exploring the Sun-Earth Connection, e.g. ACE (Advanced Composition Explorer), AcrimSat (Active Cavity Irradiance Monitor Satellite), Cluster II, Double Star, Interball, RBSP (Radiation Belt Storm Probes), WIND. 6.Solar Observatories e.g. SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory), Solar Dynamics Observatory, STEREO, TRACE, Parker Solar Probe, Solar Orbiter, Yohkoh, Ulysses.7.Solar instruments using crewed spacecraft, e.g. Apollo Telescope Mount (Skylab), SOLAR, SolarMax, Spartan 2018.Other Solar Observing Missions, e.g. GOES (Solar X-Ray Imager), PROBA-2 and -3.9.Bibliography
£28.49
Springer International Publishing AG America’s First Eclipse Chasers: Stories of
Book SynopsisIn 2017, over 200 million Americans witnessed the spectacular total eclipse of the Sun, and the 2024 eclipse is expected to draw even larger crowds. In anticipation of this upcoming event, this book takes us back in history over 150 years, telling the story of the nation’s first ever eclipse chasers.Our tale follows the chaotic journeys of scientists and amateur astronomers as they trekked across the western United States to view the rare phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. The fascinating story centers on the expeditions of the 1869 total eclipse, which took place during the turbulent age of the chimerical Planet Vulcan and Civil War Reconstruction. The protagonists—a motley crew featuring astronomical giants like Simon Newcomb and pioneering female astronomers like Maria Mitchell—were met with unanticipated dangers, mission-threatening accidents, and eccentric characters only the West could produce. Theirs is a story of astronomical proportions. Along the way, we will make several stops across the booming US railroad network, traveling from viewing sites as familiar as Des Moines, Iowa, to ones as distant and strange as newly acquired Alaska.From equipment failures and botched preparations to quicksand and apocalyptic ‘comets’, welcome to the wild, western world of solar eclipses.Table of Contents Prologue Simon Newcomb’s Eclipse 1869: The Railway and the Traveling Observatory Ground Zero: Des Moines? Maria Mitchell’s Eclipse Ghost Towns . . . And Ghost Planets The Public Reacts (and Drinks) to the Eclipse Results: What Was it All About, Anyway? Epilogue: 2017 & 2024 Acknowledgements Sources Notes List of Figures Index
£30.67
Springer International Publishing AG The Physics of Planet Earth and Its Natural
Book SynopsisFrom earthquakes to the northern lights and tsunamis to glacier movement, the author explains thousands of phenomena in the world around us. All of this is done using language that is simple and understandable, and at the same time this book does not try to deceive the reader, as materials of this nature often do, but uses exact physical formulas where they are needed.This book serves as an invaluable reference for physics teachers and should inspire high school students to study physics. Many of them will very likely be able to understand that riveting events and phenomena lie behind those very same formulas that just yesterday seemed so boring.This is an excellent and unique way of easily submerging oneself into the world of science and a non-stop intellectual challenge that lures the reader in much more than any game of chess.Sir Andre Geim, 2010 Nobel Prize Laureate in PhysicsThere are plenty of high school students who continue to find science interesting today. Dmitry Livanov’s book, which is both useful and held in high regard, is written precisely with these young people in mind.This book can be used by teachers who want to expand the narrow scope of subject material in their classes and enable students to broaden their perspective about how to apply the laws of physics in order to understand such a complex natural object as planet Earth. This book will be of interest to high school students and graduates of high schools, specialized high schools and preparatory schools who want to test their understanding of physics, astronomy and geography. This book strengthens the foundation of scientific knowledge in today’s world, which repeatedly tests the strength of the collective body of science.Evgeniy Yamburg,Member of the Russian Academy of EducationPrincipal, School #109, Moscow Dmitry Livanov was able to write a book that is interesting both for those who are just beginning to become familiar with physics, and for those who for various reasons have forgotten much of what they knew at one time. He succeeded in doing this because he himself knows and loves physics and because physics—as the most important part of human culture—is interesting to him.I hope that readers of this book will not only recognize the usefulness and importance of physics, but also appreciate its beauty and allure.Andrey Furchenko,Doctor of Physics and Mathematics,Aide to the President of the Russian FederationTable of Contents1 The Earth in the Solar System.- 2 The Earth and the Moon.- 3 The Depths and the Surface of the Earth.- 4 The Earth’s Atmosphere.- 5 The Ocean.- 6 Fresh Water on the Earth.- 7 The Weather and Climate.
£23.74
Springer International Publishing AG How Space Physics Really Works: Lessons from
Book SynopsisThere is a huge gulf between the real physics of space travel and the way it is commonly portrayed in movies and TV shows. That’s not because space physics is difficult or obscure – most of the details were understood by the end of the 18th century – but because it can often be bafflingly counter-intuitive for a general audience. The purpose of this book isn’t to criticize or debunk popular sci-fi depictions, which can be very entertaining, but to focus on how space physics really works. This is done with the aid of numerous practical illustrations taken from the works of serious science fiction authors – from Jules Verne and Arthur C. Clarke to Larry Niven and Andy Weir – who have taken positive pleasure in getting their scientific facts right.Trade Review“This slim book has the appealing premise of looking at the basics of space physics, from gravity through rocket science to the nature of a vacuum, by using examples from 'well-constructed science fiction'. ... a great read both for those who enjoy science fiction (or want to write it) and those wanting to know a little more of the realities of potential life in space.” (Popular Science, popsciencebooks.blogspot.com, July 24, 2023)Table of ContentsChapter 1: Physics in Science Fiction Chapter 2: Gravity Chapter 3: Orbital DynamicsChapter 4: Rocket Science Chapter 5: Living in a Vacuum
£23.18
Springer International Publishing AG Planet Earth, Past and Present: Parallels Between
Book SynopsisThe Earth is not the world it once was, and it is not the world it will always be. This book describes the exciting, complex, and occasionally baffling history of our own planet. Over the course of its 4.5 billion years, Earth has undergone astonishing changes to its surface and atmosphere, at times more closely resembling other planets in our Solar System than the habitable, teeming biosphere of today. Through these otherworldly analogs, author-illustrator Michael Carroll teaches readers about different aspects of our own planet’s past. Our nearest cosmic neighbor, Venus, offers insights into Earth’s own young atmosphere and surface, while Saturn’s moon Titan may offer a window into the genesis of life on Earth. Planet Earth, Past and Present explores these and many more connections. Original art accompanies each chapter, depicting major stages of the Earth’s evolution and providing vivid comparisons to other planets or moons. Come along on this journey through the Solar System—a journey that ultimately leads us home.Table of ContentsIntroduction: The Earth today, and the alien worlds around it 1. Before Earth o Formation of the solar system: temperature and compositional gradients in the cloud o Planetary rings as analogs to our protoplanetary disk · Lords of the rings, moons and waves o Views of extrasolar disks and what they tell us of our roots · Seeing our past through Hubble and Spitzer o The “snow line” and structure of the early Sun’s nebular cloud o Our solar system’s habitable zone · Habitable zones around other stars o Our place in the Milky Way galaxy · The galactic habitable zone 2. Earth=Mercury: Earth as a molten world o Terrestrial planets begin as molten balls of rock § Accretion and differentiation § Earth formation: cold or hot? § The importance of layers o Mercury’s beginnings: raining rock and metal § The sky is falling: metallic vs stony asteroids, cometary ices o How Mercury and the Earth differ, solar influences o Shared heritage, the echoes of planet Mercury within the rocks of Earth · [news inset: newly discovered mineral inside a diamond hints at the nature of Earth’s deepest mantle] 3. Earth=Venus: Our planet as a Dante-esque oven o Ocean vs desert, and where the balance lies o Oceans condense from atmosphere o Earth before rust: land and sea without free oxygen · [news inset: Earth’s evil twin: why did Venus end up so different from Earth? Asteroid impacts may be the culprit] o New dawn for Venus: upcoming missions and what they may soon tell us 4. Earth and the Asteroid belt: the impact of an uneasy relationship during the great solar system cleanup o Are the asteroids a failed planet? o What the asteroids added to the Earth’s mix § Specific minerals, water, gases o Birth of the Moon. § Theia impact o [inset: Large low-shear velocity provinces: evidence for Theia remnants?] o The Moon’s importance for tides, axial stabilization, etc o The Earth/Jupiter relationship, a natural force-field · [news inset: missions to the asteroids: can we move the rocks?] · [news inset: what we’ve learned from Ryugu and Itokawa samples] 5. Earth=Titan o Titan as a chemical proxy for the early Earth (nitrogen and methane, a winning combination?) § Titan’s methane as starting point for complex organics § Titan as a snapshot of Earth’s prebiotic chemistry · Photochemistry leads to building blocks of life · Earth evidence wiped out, but Titan’s is frozen for us to explore o The great mystery: first life § Was the atmosphere of pre-biotic Earth reduced or oxidized? § Hydrogen cyanide and the “cyanosulfidic” pathway to life § Panspermia and its problems; cosmic dust and precursors to amino acids § Carbonaceous chondrites, comets, and how they relate to life o Earth as a nursery § Chemistry and energy in the beginnings of life § Life under pressure: synthesis of organic matter from inorganic molecules near submarine hydrothermal vents and geothermal pools o Earth’s oxygenating event and how biology sculpts a planetary environment o Titan as a primordial Earth analog § Many parallels with ancient Earth · Reduced atmosphere; early Titan warmer and richer in oxygen, similar to Earth · Primary chemical composition and vertical profile of the atmosphere · Physical and chemical combinations (including thymine and cytosine production at Titan) · Energy sources (sunlight, Saturn radiation, possible cryovolcanism) · Atmospheric greenhouse effects § Life’s building blocks? · Cell membranes from acrylonitrile · Photochemically produced organic chemistry, amino acids and tholins (Miller- Urey and follow-on experiments) · Three places for water on Titan · Carbon-based life without accessible water · Ammonia instead of water: N chemistry and pseudo biochemistry · Where is the methane coming from? § Is life in the universe inevitable? Dinosaurs to protozoans, a rich menagerie § Future Titan: a new birthplace? · [news inset: changes in Earth’s spin may have led to oxygen buildup] 6. Earth=Mars: the “Snowball” or “Slushball” Earth o The past lives of Earth and Mars § Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to breathe: oxygen-poor watery environments of early Mars and Earth § Continent configuration: how landmass arrangement affects climate (did Mars have plate tectonics?) § The “lost” billion years of Earth geology § Making a snowball: balance between greenhouse effects and runaway freeze · The role of sea-ice dynamics, wind, etc · The role of the carbon cycle and volcanism · Escape from the ice palace: the blossoming of oceans and freeing of metals · Links to the Cambrian explosion? § Raptian group of Canadian Cordillera: glaciers sandwiched between limestone, and other equatorial glacier evidence of snowball Earth § Earth’s oxygenating event and how biology sculpts a planetary environment § The progression of life and its effect on the environment · [news inset: dinosaurs may have gotten huge during a rainy era] o Martian glaciers and echoes of Earth § Orbital obliquity and past glaciation § Morraines, scour marks and hanging valleys § Rock glaciers, active even today? · Kasei Valles, western sides of Tharsis volcanoes (for example) o Compare to ocean moons: Europa, Ganymede, Enceladus, others § Why did the ocean moons not freeze solid? Tidal and radiogenic heating o Earth’s Moon and axial stability (Stromatolite evidence of Earth’s stable orbit) 7. Distant Earths: exoplanets with potential o What we’ve found (the statistics) § Worlds orbiting red dwarfs, and the dangers of flares · [news inset:Our own Sun’s flares in history] o Super-Earths, both oceanic and terrestrial § Eyeball Earths, giant Earths, Earths without land, the super-Earth wet exoplanets, and insights they give us o Moons in habitable zones (and the problem of orbiting a planet so close to a star) 8. Earth=Venus, part II: Future Earth o A return to Venus? The flip side of a snowball Earth o Climate change: rising temperatures, disappearing coastlines, extreme weather o The future of the Sun; stellar life-cycles o Mass exodus, but where to go? § Terraforming (warming Mars, cooling Venus) § Ocean moons as habitats § Despite the many discoveries of Earth-sized worlds in habitable zones, there’s no place like home. 8A. Important terms 8b. Further reading 8c. Glossary
£26.59
Springer International Publishing AG Planets of the Known Galaxy
Book SynopsisThis book offers a tour of the known galaxy, here defined as the region of interstellar space closest to Earth. The phrase the known galaxy has a particular resonance in science fiction, as it refers to the part of the Milky Way that from the perspective of a point in time centuries from now may have been explored and settled by human beings. In the known galaxy, there are gloomy ocean worlds illuminated by the light of exploding stars. There are worlds where precious gems could be as common as pebbles. There are planets eternally wandering between the stars like the Flying Dutchman. There are lava worlds, steam worlds, hot Jupiters, cold Jupiters and maybe even worlds like our Earth. The purpose of the book is to begin to give this region a sense of place, in the same way that Mars is now starting to be appreciated as a location rather than just a planet. In doing so, the book merges our current scientific knowledge of the known galaxy with speculative fiction and with older legends and myths. A sense of place is the feeling that some locations have a special meaning. This emotional connection arises from a combination of cultural and environmental factors that make individuals care about a particular place. It is challenging to create a sense of place for distant locations that no human has visited and for which our current knowledge is limited. This book attempts to take a step in this direction, by dividing the known galaxy into a number of clearly described distinct regions, by providing scientific descriptions of the likely environmental conditions on the known planets of these regions, and by linking these planets to their literary and mythological context. The book is aimed at fans of both science fact and science fiction. It combines a tour of real planets outside of our solar system with tales of their fictional counterparts. The combination of solid scientific facts and analysis with speculation and imagination will be appealing to readers who want to gain a feeling for these planets as places with a back story, rather than just as names somewhere out there in the sky.
£26.39
Springer Host Stars and their Effects on Exoplanet
Book SynopsisWhy are Host Stars Important for Understanding Exoplanet Atmospheres.- Stellar Activity Phenomenology and General Principles.- Magnetic Fields the Source of Stellar Activity.-Stellar Chromospheres the Source of UV Emission.- Stellar Coronae the Source of Xray Emission.- Reconstructing the Missing Stellar Emission.- Panchromatic Spectra of Exoplanet Host Stars.- Stellar Winds.- Activity Indicator Correlations.- Host Star Driven Exoplanet Mass Loss and Possible Surface Water.- Host Star Driven Photochemistry in Exoplanet Atmospheres.- Space Weather the Effects of Host Star Flares on Exoplanets.- Heterogeneous Stellar Surfaces Spots and Faculae and their Time Variability.- Star Planet Interactions.- Effects of Stellar and Instrumental Noise on Radial Velocity Measurements.- Stellar Contamination effects on Measurements of Exoplanet Radii and Densities.- Stellar Contamination effects on Measurements of Exoplanet Molecular Column Densities.- Summary and Final Comments.
£85.49
de Gruyter Middle Atmosphere of Venus
Book Synopsis
£111.62
Springer International Publishing AG Impact Craters in South America
Book SynopsisA complete and updated catalogue of impact craters and structures in South America from 2014 is presented here. Approximately eighty proven, suspected and disproven structures have been identified by several sources in this continent. All the impact sites of this large continent have been exhaustively reviewed: the proved ones, the possible ones and some very doubtful. Many sites remain without a clear geological "in situ" confirmation and some of them could be even rejected. Argentina and Brazil are leading the list containing almost everything detected. In Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Perú, Uruguay and Venezuela only a few were observed. Only Ecuador is waiting for new discoveries. So far, the largest well stated impact site is still the Araguainha structure in Brazil with its 40 kilometers in diameter. However, two possible impact structures are larger than Araguainha: Malvinas, (with 250 kilometers in diameter) and Vichada in Colombia, (50 kilometers). This study also reports the existence of some Tertiary-Quaternary glassy impactite layers: the "escorias" and "tierras cocidas" of the pampas in Argentina.Table of ContentsIntroduction.- Argentina.- Bolivia.- Brazil.- Chile.- Colombia.- Paraguay.- Perú.- Uruguay.- Venezuela.- The Guianas.- South Pacific Ocean.
£42.74
Springer International Publishing AG On the Shores of Titan's Farthest Sea: A Scientific Novel
Book SynopsisTitan is practically a planet in its own right, with a diameter similar to that of Mercury, methane rainstorms, organic soot and ethane seas. All of the most detailed knowledge on the moon's geology, volcanology, meteorology, marine sciences and chemistry are gathered together here to paint a factually accurate hypothetical future of early human colonization on this strange world.The views from Titan’s Mayda Outpost are spectacular, but all is not well at the moon's remote science base. On the shore of a methane sea beneath glowering skies, atmospherics researcher Abigail Marco finds herself in the middle of murder, piracy and colleagues who seem to be seeing sea monsters and dead people from the past. On the Shores of Titan’s Farthest Sea provides thrills, excitement and mystery – couched in the latest science – on one of the Solar System’s most bizarre worlds, Saturn’s huge moon Titan."This riveting story, set against a plausibly well integrated interplanetary space, carries us along with its bright and interesting characters. We feel absolutely transported to a hauntingly beautiful and alien Titan through Carroll's masterful weaving of art and science." – Jani Radebaugh, Professor of Planetary Sciences, Titan dune expert, BYU"It's a fun read! Really makes Titan come alive, literally..." – Astrophysicist and author Ralph Lorenz"Michael Carroll's new novel "On the Shores of Titan's Farthest Sea" (Springer) is a gripping, good-vs-evil tale that sparkles with imagination. It's set on the shores of Kraken Mare, the vast methane sea found high in the northern latitudes of Saturn's moon, Titan, in a future when humanity has spread throughout the solar system. The villains are wicked, the heroes are scientists (Thanks, Mike!), the story is convincing, the dialogue snappy, and the scenery is right out of our catalog of findings on this cold, hazy and alien world.If you fancy skipping forward 250 years and checking out how humankind might be navigating the very geography and landforms we have uncovered in our years touring Saturn, this book is for you!" --Carolyn Porco, leader of the Cassini Imaging Science team and the Director of the Cassini Imaging Central Laboratory for Operations (CICLOPS) at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado Trade Review Table of Contents
£18.99
Springer International Publishing AG Solar Particle Radiation Storms Forecasting and
Book SynopsisSolar energetic particles (SEPs) emitted from the Sun are a major space weather hazard motivating the development of predictive capabilities. This book presents the results and findings of the HESPERIA (High Energy Solar Particle Events forecasting and Analysis) project of the EU HORIZON 2020 programme. It discusses the forecasting operational tools developed within the project, and presents progress to SEP research contributed by HESPERIA both from the observational as well as the SEP modelling perspective. Using multi-frequency observational data and simulations HESPERIA investigated the chain of processes from particle acceleration in the corona, particle transport in the magnetically complex corona and interplanetary space, to the detection near 1 AU. The book also elaborates on the unique software that has been constructed for inverting observations of relativistic SEPs to physical parameters that can be compared with space-borne measurements at lower energies. Introductory and pedagogical material included in the book make it accessible to students at graduate level and will be useful as background material for Space Physics and Space Weather courses with emphasis on Solar Energetic Particle Event Forecasting and Analysis.This book is published with open access under a CC BY license.Table of ContentsPreface.- Solar Energetic Particles and Space Weather: Science and Applications.- Eruptive Solar Activity related to SEP Events.- Charged Particle Transport in the Interplanetary Medium.- Particle Transport in the Earth’s Magnetosphere.- Ground-Based Measurements of High-Energy Particles by Neutron Monitors.- HESPERIA Forecasting Tools: Real-Time and Post-Event.- Gamma-Ray, Radio and SEP Observations of Relativistic Events.- Modelling of Shock-Accelerated Gamma-Ray Events.- Inversion Methodology of Ground Level Enhancements
£40.49
Springer International Publishing AG Building Habitats on the Moon: Engineering
Book SynopsisDesigning a habitat for the lunar surface? You will need to know more than structural engineering. There are the effects of meteoroids, radiation, and low gravity. Then there are the psychological and psychosocial aspects of living in close quarters, in a dangerous environment, far away from home. All these must be considered when the habitat is sized, materials specified, and structure designed.This book provides an overview of various concepts for lunar habitats and structural designs and characterizes the lunar environment - the technical and the nontechnical. The designs take into consideration psychological comfort, structural strength against seismic and thermal activity, as well as internal pressurization and 1/6 g. Also discussed are micrometeoroid modeling, risk and redundancy as well as probability and reliability, with an introduction to analytical tools that can be useful in modeling uncertainties.Trade Review“The book covers concepts and designs of structures and habitats on the Moon in detail … . Studying the book will give the reader a deep insight into all the technical, physiological and psychological problems and lets him establish the odds for the realization of a successful global 'Moon Village' vison. … The detailed references and registers, including all relevant interviews and quotations at the end of each chapter provide pointers to a whole universe of additional information.” (Joachim J. Kehr, Journal of Space Operations & Communicator, Vol. 15 (3), April, 2018)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements.- Dedication.- About the Author- Preface.- Chapter 1: Thoughts on the Moon.- Chapter 2: Overview and context.- Chapter 3: The lunar environment.- Chapter 4: Structures.- Chapter 5: Habitat studies.- Chapter 6: Lunar-based astronomy.- Chapter 7: Materials and ISRU.- Chapter 8: Structural design of a lunar habitat.- Chapter 9: Thermal design.- Chapter 10: Preliminary probability theory.- Chapter 11: Reliability and damage.- Chapter 12: Airplanes, redundancy and lunar habitats.- Chapter 13: Advanced methodologies.- Chapter 14: Concluding thoughts.- Index.
£33.24
Birkhauser Verlag AG Mysteries of Mars
Book SynopsisThis book introduces the reader to the wonders of Mars, covering all aspects from our past perceptions of the planet through to the latest knowledge on its history, its surface processes such as impact cratering, volcano formation, and glaciation, and its atmosphere and climate. In addition, a series of ten intriguing open issues are considered in a more advanced way. These include such thought-provoking questions as What turned off the planet’s magnetic field?, Why are the northern and southern hemispheres so different?, What was the fate of the once abundant water?, and Is there, or was there, life on Mars? Numerous original figures, unavailable elsewhere, reproduce details of images from Viking, CTX, MOC, HiRISE, THEMIS, and HRSC. The book will appeal especially to general readers interested in planetary sciences, astronomy, astrogeology, and space exploration and to students of Earth Sciences and Natural and Environmental Sciences. The higher-level material on the remaining mysteries of Mars will also be of interest to astrogeologists and other researchers.Trade Review“This slender volume offers a useful, quick study on Mars. … The book is richly illustrated in both black and white and color. It is written in an accessible style that is thoroughly peppered with fact after fact; De Blasio offers plenty to intrigue readers about one of Earth's closest neighbors.” (P. K. Strother, Choice, Vol. 56 (10), June, 2019)Table of ContentsPart I: Mars through the millennia.- Mars as a heavenly warrior.- Mars with its odd orbit enters science.- Schiaparelli, Lowell, and the Martians.- Martian engineers or Martian lichens?.- Mars as seen by Mariners and Vikings.- A long interval and the return to Mars.- Technical box: Sending a spacecraft to Mars.- Mars in its orbit.- The big disappointment.- The rocks of the Martian surface.- The final answer.- Part II: history and geography of Mars.- The geography of Mars, shortly.- The interior of Mars.- Mystery No. 1. Why has Mars no magnetic field ?.- Ancient Mars: the Noachian period.- Mystery No. 2: Has Mars ever had a plate tectonics ?.- A tour on Noachian terrains of Mars: Noachis Terra.- The middle period: the Hesperian.- A tour on the Hesperian outflow channels.- The last period: the Amazonian.- Geological formations of Mars.- Part III: Processes at the surface of Mars.- Martian mountains.- The northern lowlands.- Mystery No. 3: What is the origin of the global dichotomy, which divides so sharply the North from the South of Mars?.- The giant impact basins on Mars.- Technical box: Impact cratering on Earth and Mars.- Valles Marineris.- Mistery No. 4: How were the Valles Marineris formed?.- The volcanoes of Mars.- Technical: Volcanic eruptions on Earth and Mars.- Mystery No. 5: Enigmatic mountains and mysterious geological formations (the strange arc of Acheron, the halos of Olympus Mons, Vastitas Borealis and Medusae Fossae formations).- Part IV: an exhibition of martian images.- Fractures.- Ice-related landforms.- Technical box: Optical images, infrared, radar maps. How data are acquired from remote sensing.- Catastrophic landslides.- Mystery No. 6: Great Ice age on Mars ?.- Morphologies due to wind.- Morphologies due to water.- Mystery No. 7: Was there an ocean on Mars?.- Breathtaking views.- Mystery No. 8: The enigmatic outflow channels.- Part V: The atmosphere, climate and life on Mars.- The atmosphere of Mars.- Dust devils.- The atmosphere of Mars.- The ice caps.- Mystery No. 9: How has the atmosphere of Mars changed? And what happened to the once abundant water ?.- The search for life on Mars.- Martian meteorites.- Mystery No. 10: Is there or was there life on Mars ?.- Ancient civilization on Mars ?.- Upcoming missions to Mars.- How to get to Mars and back.- Colonize Mars ?.- Terraforming.- Technical appendices.- Martian data.- Planitiae, Fossae, Terrae: Nomenclature of planetary geology.- Missions to: past, current, future.
£28.49
Springer International Publishing AG Characterizing Space Plasmas: A Data Driven
Book SynopsisThis didactic book uses a data-driven approach to connect measurements made by plasma instruments to the real world. This approach makes full use of the instruments’ capability and examines the data at the most detailed level an experiment can provide. Students using this approach will learn what instruments can measure, and working with real-world data will pave their way to models consistent with these observations. While conceived as a teaching tool, the book contains a considerable amount of new information. It emphasizes recent results, such as particle measurements made from the Cluster ion experiment, explores the consequences of new discoveries, and evaluates new trends or techniques in the field. At the same time, the author ensures that the physical concepts used to interpret the data are general and widely applicable. The topics included help readers understand basic problems fundamental to space plasma physics. Some are appearing for the first time in a space physics textbook. Others present different perspectives and interpretations of old problems and models that were previously considered incontestable. This book is essential reading for graduate students in space plasma physics, and a useful reference for the broader astrophysics community. Table of Contents1 Basic Equations and Concepts 11.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.2 Fundamental Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21.3 Statistical Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41.4 Electric and Magnetic Field in Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71.5 Transformation of E and B Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111.6 Macroscopic Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181.7 Plasma Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221.8 Examples of Plasma Distributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311.9 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342 Charged Particle Acceleration 392.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 392.2 Motion in Uniform E and B Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 402.3 E ⇥ B Acceleration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 452.4 Motion in Inhomogeneous Magnetic Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . 572.5 Other Particle Acceleration Mechanisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 632.6 Waves and Wave-Particle Interaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 682.7 Cyclotron Resonance Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 722.8 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 783 Escaping Solar Particles 813.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813.2 Observations of Solar Wind Ions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 833.3 Observations of Solar Wind Electrons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913.4 Solar Wind Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 963.5 Kinetic Models of the SW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 993.6 Heuristic Interpretation of the Solar Wind . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1043.7 Electrostatic Solitary Waves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1083.8 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1104 Collisionless Shocks 1174.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1174.2 Observations of Earth’s Bow Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1194.3 Entropy Across Earth’s Bow Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1254.4 ICME Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1334.5 Nonlinear Structures Upstream of Bow Shock . . . . . . . . . . . 1404.6 Growth of Nonlinear Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1584.7 Acceleration of Particles at the Bow Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . 1614.8 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1655 Current Sheets and Boundaries 1835.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1835.2 Magnetic Reconnection on Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1845.3 SW Entry into Magnetosphere through Cusps . . . . . . . . . . . 1915.4 Particle Motions in Magnetic Neutral Regions . . . . . . . . . . . 1985.5 Kinetic Models of Current Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2045.6 Kinetic Equations for Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2085.7 Tearing Mode Instability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2145.8 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2186 Current and Electric Field 2256.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2256.2 Observations of Electron and Ion Beams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2266.3 Motion Parallel to E and B Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2316.4 Electric Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2366.5 A Model of Double Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2466.6 Currents in the Magnetosphere and Ionosphere . . . . . . . . . . 2516.7 Ring Current in Magnetospheres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2566.8 Magnetosphere-Ionosphere Coupling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2646.9 Auroral Kilometric Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2726.10 Concluding Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2757 Topics for Further Studies 2817.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2817.2 Large-scale Current Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2817.3 Heating Space Plasmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2847.4 Boltzmann Collisional Term (@f/@t)c . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2867.5 Runaway Electrons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2927.6 Collective Interactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
£67.49
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Space Weather: Physics and Effects
Book SynopsisThe editors present a state-of-the-art overview on the Physics of Space Weather and its effects on technological and biological systems on the ground and in space. It opens with a general introduction on the subject, followed by a historical review on the major developments in the field of solar terrestrial relationships leading to its development into the up-to-date field of space weather. Specific emphasis is placed on the technological effects that have impacted society in the past century at times of major solar activity. Chapter 2 summarizes key milestones, starting from the base of solar observations with classic telescopes up to recent space observations and new mission developments with EUV and X-ray telescopes (e.g., STEREO), yielding an unprecedented view of the sun-earth system. Chapter 3 provides a scientific summary of the present understanding of the physics of the sun-earth system based on the latest results from spacecraft designed to observe the Sun, the interplanetary medium and geospace. Chapter 4 describes how the plasma and magnetic field structure of the earth's magnetosphere is impacted by the variation of the solar and interplanetary conditions, providing the necessary science and technology background for missions in low and near earth's orbit. Chapter 5 elaborates the physics of the layer of the earth's upper atmosphere that is the cause of disruptions in radio-wave communications and GPS (Global Positioning System) errors, which is of crucial importance for projects like Galileo. In Chapters 6-10, the impacts of technology used up to now in space, on earth and on life are reviewed. Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: "The volume surveys the broad expanse of space weather through 14 chapters contributed by 20 expert practitioners. … its extensive reference lists at the end of each chapter are extremely valuable. I believe the book functions best by sitting on the library reference shelf where it can be readily consulted as needed." (Thomas J. Bogdan, Physics Today, December 2007) "Space Weather: Physics and Effects is an attempt to summarize the entire field of space weather. … It is generally well produced, includes an exhaustive table of contents and has nearly 40 pages of prefatory materials including a four-page list of acronyms, and what seems like an adequate index." (W. Jeffrey Hughes, EOS, March, 2009)Table of Contents1. Introduction,- 2. Space Weather Forecasting Historically Viewed through the Lens of Meterology,- 3. The Solar and Interplanetary Drivers of Space and Storms,- 4. The Coupling of the Solar Wind to the Earth's Magnetosphere,- 5. Major Radiation Environments in the Heliosphere and their Implications for Interplanetary Travel,- 6. Radiation Belts and Ring Currents,- 7. Ionospheric Response,- 8. Solar Effects in the Middle and Lower Stratosphere and Probable Associations with the Troposphere,- 9. Space Weather Effects on Communications,- 10. Space Weather Effects on Power Grids,- 11. Space Weather Impacts on Space Radiation,- 12. Effects on Spacecraft Hardware and Operations,- 13. Effects on Satellite Navigation,- 14. Forecasting Space Weather,-15. Outlook.
£269.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Physics of the Solar Corona: An Introduction with Problems and Solutions
Book SynopsisA thorough introduction to solar physics based on recent spacecraft observations. The author introduces the solar corona and sets it in the context of basic plasma physics before moving on to discuss plasma instabilities and plasma heating processes. The latest results on coronal heating and radiation are presented. Spectacular phenomena such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections are described in detail, together with their potential effects on the Earth. Table of ContentsThermal Radiation.- Hydrostatics.- Hydrodynamics.- Magnetic Fields.- Magneto-Hydrodynamics (MHD).- MHD Oscillations.- Propagating MHD Waves.- Coronal Heating.- Magnetic Reconnection.- Particle Acceleration.- Particle Kinematics.- Hard X-Rays.- Gamma-Rays.- Radio Emission.- Flare Plasma Dynamics.- Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs).
£94.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Meteorite Impact!: The Danger from Space and
Book SynopsisPART I CHAPTER 1 T E — , , . . . . . . . . . 15 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Geological change — the answers within, and without. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Man on the Moon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Back to the beginning — from the Big Bang to early Earth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Impact — the ubiquitous process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 The oldest rocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Time to cool — birth of the Kaapvaal continent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Old crust in the Vredefort Dome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Rifting, oceans, volcanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Mountains, fire and ice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 The unique Bushveld magmatic event. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 CHAPTER 2 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Extinction or survival — our restless Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Meteorite-impact catastrophes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Normal (background) versus mass extinctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 A brief look at the impact record in the Solar System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 What are the projectiles capable of causing an impact catastrophe?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 What is an impact crater? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 How can we identify impact structures? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Shock metamorphism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 CHAPTER 3 T A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Tswaing meteorite crater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Does Tswaing have a twin? (Kalkkop Crater, Eastern Cape Province) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 South Africa’ s other Giant Impact Morokweng impact structure, — North West Province . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Our southern African neighbours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Testimony of earliest impact catastrophe — Barberton and the Northern Cape Province . . 113 Traces of catastrophe in the Karoo?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 6 CHAPTER 4 V : T W . . . 117 The Vredefort Structure revealed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Getting to know the giant: By road through the Vredefort Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Traversing the outer parts of the Vredefort Dome (Fochville to Parys) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 5 The geology of the Vredefort Dome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Trade ReviewFrom the reviews of the third edition:“Third edition of Meteorite Impact! … by Reimold (Museum for Natural History, Humboldt Univ., Germany) and Gibson (Univ. of the Witwatersrand, South Africa) is two things. First, it is an interesting, comprehensive field guide to an exceptional geologic site that warrants further exploration and interest. Second, it is a primer on Earth hazards with the typical popular-level approach. … content gives the reader an easily understandable and personable on-site perspective to this complex area. … Summing Up: Recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates and general readers.” (L. R. Johnston, Choice, Vol. 48 (9), May, 2011)Table of ContentsI.- The Early History of Earth — Impact, Volcanoes and Early Life.- Chaos and Catastrophe.- The Impact Heritage of Southern Africa.- Vredefort: The Largest and Oldest Impact Structure in the World.- The Recent History of the Vredefort Dome Area.- Frequently Asked Questions.- What Does the Future Hold for Humankind?.- Tourism in the Vredefort Dome.- II.- Tour Guide through the Vredefort Dome.
£80.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG MHD Flows in Compact Astrophysical Objects:
Book SynopsisAccretion flows, winds and jets of compact astrophysical objects and stars are generally described within the framework of hydrodynamical and magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) flows. Analytical analysis of the problem provides profound physical insights, which are essential for interpreting and understanding the results of numerical simulations. Providing such a physical understanding of MHD Flows in Compact Astrophysical Objects is the main goal of this book, which is an updated translation of a successful Russian graduate textbook. The book provides the first detailed introduction into the method of the Grad-Shafranov equation, describing analytically the very broad class of hydrodynamical and MHD flows. It starts with the classical examples of hydrodynamical accretion onto relativistic and nonrelativistic objects. The force-free limit of the Grad-Shafranov equation allows us to analyze in detail the physics of the magnetospheres of radio pulsars and black holes, including the Blandford-Znajek process of energy extraction from a rotating black hole immersed in an external magnetic field. Finally, on the basis of the full MHD version of the Grad-Shafranov equation the author discusses the problems of jet collimation and particle acceleration in Active Galactic Nuclei, radio pulsars, and Young Stellar Objects. The comparison of the analytical results with numerical simulations demonstrates their good agreement. Assuming that the reader is familiar with the basic physical and mathematical concepts of General Relativity, the author uses the 3+1 split approach which allows the formulation of all results in terms of physically clear language of three dimensional vectors. The book contains detailed derivations of equations, numerous exercises, and an extensive bibliography. It therefore serves as both an introductory text for graduate students and a valuable reference work for researchers in the field.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews: “The volume primarily addresses the Grad-Shafranov approach to describe axisymmetric stationary flows around astrophysical objects, including ones where General Relativity is important. … Each chapter has an abstract and an introduction to the kinds of sources to which its equations apply. … the astrophysics-group … able to make more use of it than I can.” (Viginia Trimble, The Observatory, Vol. 130 (1214), June, 2010)Table of ContentsPreface.............................................................. 5 Introduction......................................................... 9 Chapter 1 Hydrodynamic limit - classical problems of accretion and ejection.... 13 1.1 Astrophysical introduction - accretion onto compact objects.... 13 1 1 1 Accretion disks........................................... 14 1.1.2 Standard model............................................ 17 1.1.3 ADAF, ADIOS, etc.......................................... 20 1.2 Basic properties of transonic hydrodynamical flows............. 22 1.2.1 Basic equations........................................... 22 1.2.2 Spherically symmetric flow................................ 24 1.2.3 Plane potential flow...................................... 27 1.3 Axisymmetric stationary flows - nonrelativistic case........... 34 1.3.1 Basic equations........................................... 34 1.3.2 Mathematical interlude - covariant language............... 35 1.3.3 Structure of the two-dimensional flow..................... 37 1.3.4 Bondi-Hoyle accretion..................................... 45 1.3.5 Ejection from slowly rotating star........................ 49 1.4 Axisymmetric stationary accretion onto black hole.............. 57 1.4.1 Physical interlude - (3+1)-split in the Kerr metric....... 57 1.4.2 Basic equations........................................... 61 1.4.3 Exact solutions........................................... 65 1.4.4 Bondi-Hoyle accretion - relativistic limit................ 67 1.4.5 Accretion onto slowly rotating black hole................. 70 1.4.6 Accretion of a gas with small angular momentum onto nonrotating black hole......... 71 1.4.7 Thin transonic disk....................................... 77 1.5 Conclusion..................................................... 87 1 Chapter 2 Force-free limit - radio pulsar magnetosphere........................ 89 2.1 Astrophysical introduction..................................... 89 2.2 Main physical processes........................................ 92 2.2.1 Vacuum approximation...................................... 92 2.2.2 Particle creation in a strong magnetic field.............. 96 2.2.3 Structure of the magnetosphere............................ 99 2.3 Generation of secondary plasma.................................104 2.3.1 'Internal gap'............................................104 2.3.2 Neutron star surface......................................109 2.3.3 Propagation of gamma-quanta in superstrong magnetic field......................110 2.3.4 Effects of the general relativity.........................111 2.3.5 Particle generation in the magnetosphere................. 113 2.3.6 'Hollow cone' model...................................... 114 2.3.7 Particle generation - 'external gap'..................... 119 2.4 Pulsar equation............................................... 119 2.4.1 Force-free approximation. Magnetization parameter........ 119 2.4.2 Electromagnetic field. Integrals of motion............... 121 2.4.3 Grad-Shafranov equation.................................. 124 2.4.4 Mathematical interlude - quasi stationary approach....... 127 2.5 Energy loss of radio pulsars.................................. 130 2.5.1 Current loss mechanism................................... 130 2.5.2 Braking of inclined and orthogonal rotator............... 133 2.6 Structure of the magnetosphere................................ 141 2.6.1 Exact solutions.......................................... 141 2.6.2 Structure of the magnetosphere with longitudinal currents 158 2.6.3 Models of th
£80.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Essential Astrophysics
Book SynopsisEssential Astrophysics is a book to learn or teach from, as well as a fundamental reference volume for anyone interested in astronomy and astrophysics. It presents astrophysics from basic principles without requiring any previous study of astronomy or astrophysics. It serves as a comprehensive introductory text, which takes the student through the field of astrophysics in lecture-sized chapters of basic physical principles applied to the cosmos.This one-semester overview will be enjoyed by undergraduate students with an interest in the physical sciences, such as astronomy, chemistry, engineering or physics, as well as by any curious student interested in learning about our celestial science. The mathematics required for understanding the text is on the level of simple algebra, for that is all that is needed to describe the fundamental principles. The text is of sufficient breadth and depth to prepare the interested student for more advanced specialised courses in the future. Astronomical examples are provided throughout the text, to reinforce the basic concepts and physics, and to demonstrate the use of the relevant formulae. In this way, the student learns to apply the fundamental equations and principles to cosmic objects and situations. Astronomical and physical constants and units as well as the most fundamental equations can be found in the appendix. Essential Astrophysics goes beyond the typical textbook by including references to the seminal papers in the field, with further reference to recent applications, results, or specialised literature.Trade ReviewFrom the reviews:“This work fills a unique position in the literature. It is a concrete, middle-level treatment that devotes as much attention to methods of research and observation as it does to results. Here at last is a book in English which bridges the gap between elementary introductory accounts and advanced technical monographs. … It is also a fine book for hobbyists and others with some grounding in astronomy who want to explore these matters in greater depth than elementary texts allow.” (Philosophy, Religion and Science Book Reviews, bookinspections.wordpress.com, May, 2014)“This set of lecture notes on astrophysics discusses the topics that would be taught in an introductory undergraduate class. The text is sufficiently comprehensive to be used as the principle textbook for a lecture course or for self-study. … the references are excellent, enabling those who need more detail to find information quickly. The book will be easy to follow for anyone with a solid background in lower-level undergraduate physics. A valuable acquisition for academic library collections. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.” (A. Spero, Choice, Vol. 51 (6), February, 2014)Table of ContentsList of focus elements.- List of tables.- Preface.- Observing the Universe.- Radiation.- Gravity.- Cosmic Motion.- Moving Particles.- Detecting Atoms in Stars.- Transmutation of the Elements.- What Makes the Sun Shine?.- The Extended Solar Atmosphere.- The Sun Amongst the Stars.- The Material Between the Stars.- Formation of the Stars and their Planets.- Stellar End States.- A Larger, Expanding Universe.- Origin, Life and Destiny of the Observable Universe.- References.- Author index.- Subject index.
£34.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG The Chang’E-1 Topographic Atlas of the Moon
Book SynopsisThis atlas is based on the lunar global Digital Elevation Models (DEM) of Chang'E-1 (CE-1), and presents CCD stereo image data with digital photogrammetry. The spatial resolution of the DEM in this atlas is 500m, with horizontal accuracy of 192m and vertical accuracy of 120m. Color-shaded relief maps with contour lines are used to show the lunar topographical characteristics. The topographical data gathered by CE-1 can provide fundamental information for the study of lunar topographical, morphological and geological structures, as well as for lunar evolution research.Trade Review“This lovely, featured book will have you easily finding your way about the lunar surface. … I recommend ‘The Chang’E-1 Topographic Atlas of the Moon’ by Chunlai Li, Jianjun Liu, Lingli Mu, Xin Ren and Wei Zuo. It may guide you to all sorts of interesting features and finds.” (Mark Mortimer, Universe Today, universetoday.com, March, 2016)Table of ContentsPart I Introduction of the CCD Stereo Camera.- Part II Global topographic map of the Moon by CD-1.- Part III Subdivision topographic maps of the Moon.- Appendix – Gazetteer.
£116.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Plate Tectonics: Continental Drift and Mountain
Book SynopsisHow are mountains formed? Why are there old and young mountains? Why do the shapes of South America and Africa fit so well together? Why is the Pacific surrounded by a ring of volcanoes and earthquake prone areas while the edges of the Atlantic are relatively peaceful?Frisch and Meschede and Blakey answer all these questions and more through the presentation and explanation of the geo-dynamic processes upon which the theory of continental drift is based and which have lead to the concept of plate tectonics. Trade ReviewFrom the reviews:“The authors discuss all major aspects of the subject in chapters focusing on theory development; plate movements and geometry; continental grabens, margins, and abyssal plains; mid-ocean ridges; hot spots; subduction zones, island arcs, volcanism, and metamorphism; transform faults; terrenes; mountain building; and more. … One of the book’s strongest points is the many excellent, colorful maps and cross-sections that complement the text. References to the literature are well chosen. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduate through professional readership.” (T. L. T. Grose, Choice, Vol. 49 (2), October, 2011)Table of Contents1. Contractional theory, continental drift and plate tectonics,- 2 Plate movements and their geometric relationships,- 3. Continental graben structures,- 4. Passive continental margins and abyssal plains,- 5. Mid-ocean ridges,- 6. Hot spots,- 7. Subduction zones, island arcs and active continental maragins,- 8. Transform faults,- 9. Terranes,- 10. Early Precambrian plate tectonics,- 11. Plate tectonics and mountain building,- 12. Old orogens,- 13. Young orogens - the Earth's loftiest places.
£71.99
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Ausflug ins äußere Sonnensystem: Trojaner, Puck
Book SynopsisDieses Buch nimmt Sie mit auf eine spannende Reise durch das äußere Sonnensystem. Sie beginnt jenseits des Mars im Asteroidengürtel und führt Sie durch die Welt gigantischer Planeten: Jupiter mit den galileischen Monden, die fast selbst ein kleines Sonnensystem bilden, Saturn, der „Herr der Ringe“, die Eisriesen Uranus und Neptun. Jenseits des Kuipergürtels, der unser Sonnensystem mit Kometen versorgt, beginnt die Oortsche Wolke und wir kommen dort an die Grenzen unseres Sonnensystems. Der Autor stellt die verschiedenen Welten, auf die Sie treffen werden, dar: Ringe, Eismonde, Zwergplaneten, Trojaner und Zentauren, Planet X, Puck, Io und viel mehr. Entdeckungsgeschichten, physikalische Eigenschaften, das Innere der Planeten, ihre Atmosphären und Ringsysteme sind verständlich und kurzweilig präsentiert. Kommen Sie mit auf diese Reise und lassen Sie sich vom äußeren Sonnensystem verzaubern! Der Autor Michael Moltenbrey studierte Informatik und Astrophysik, begeistert sich seit Jahren für das Thema Astronomie und war mehrere Jahre Vorsitzender einer lokalen Sternwarte von Amateurastronomen. Als Amateurastronom beschäftigt er sich schon seit Jahren mit Themen der Entstehung und Entwicklung unseres Sonnensystems und numerischen Simulationen.Trade Review“... Empfehlenswertes Sachbuch, breit verständlich, übersichtlich, aktuell; eine erweiterte astronomische Heimatkunde, auch geeignet für Referate ...” (Rolf Becker-Friedrich, in: ekz-Informationsdienst, Heft 3, 2020)Table of Contents1 Einführung.- 2 Der Asteroidengürtel.- 3 Jupiter.- 4 Besuch beim Herr der Ringe.- 5 Uranus - Eintritt in die Welt der Eisriesen.- 6 Neptun.- 7 Kuipergürtel.- 8 Zwischen den Welten.- 9 Die Oortsche Wolke.- 10 Zusammenfassung.
£26.59
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Die Geschichte der Raumfahrt
Book SynopsisDie Erforschung des erdnahen und interplanetaren Raumes ist nur möglich geworden durch den Pioniergeist von Theoretikern und den Mut von Praktikern, die an ihre Ideen geglaubt haben. Dieses Sachbuch zeichnet die Entwicklung der Raumfahrt nach: von den Anfängen der Raketentechnik zum ersten bemannten Raumflug mit Juri Gagarin, gefolgt von Mehrfachumrundungen der Erde, Parallelflügen mit mehreren Kapseln, der ersten Frau im Weltraum, dem Ausstieg eines Kosmonauten aus seiner Kapsel und manuellen Rendezvousmanövern sowie den Mondlandungen. Die Autoren bieten einen Blick auf Marsmissionen und Sondenexpeditionen innerhalb des Sonnensystems und schließen mit einer kurzen Bestandsaufnahme aktueller Zukunftsprojekte.Im Rahmen der zweiten Auflage wurde das Sachbuch aktualisiert und um neueste Entwicklungen der Raumfahrt ergänzt. Zusätzlich enthalten sind nun unter anderem Informationen über das James-Webb-Weltraumteleskop, das Raumschiff Crew Dragon der Firma Space-X sowie das Artemis-Programm der NASA.Table of ContentsEinleitung.- Der Kosmos und unser Planetensystem.- Von den Anfängen der Raketentechnik.- Antriebe und Raketentechnik.- Erdsatelliten.- Erste Menschen im Weltraum.- Bemannte Raumschiffe.- Mondmissionen.- Organisationen.- Raumstationen.- Missionen zu anderen Körpern im Sonnensystem.- Die Reise zum Mars.- Raumsonden auf anderen Missionen.- Blick nach vorn.
£23.74
