Description
Book SynopsisSince Babylonian times, a great deal of effort has been put into trying to predict and explain the motions of the sun, moon and planets. This book describes the theories of planetary motion that have been developed through the ages, emphasizing the interaction between progress in astronomy and mathematics.
Trade Review'Linton presents the 4000 year history of astronomy from a refreshingly different viewpoint … His treatment is thorough and clear, but not daunting.' New Scientist
'The homework requisite for the task Linton has undertaken is demanding, both in extent and depth. He has done it thoroughly and well.' Journal for the History of Astronomy
Table of ContentsPreface; 1. Introduction; 2. Spheres and circles; 3. The Ptolemaic universe; 4. Developments in geocentric astronomy; 5. The heliocentric universe; 6. Tycho Brahe, Kepler and the ellipse; 7. Galileo, the telescope and Keplerian astronomy; 8. The universal theory of gravitation; 9. Celestial mechanics; 10. The asteroids and the outer planets; 11. New methods; 12. Mercury and relativity; References; Index.
