The Cambridge Concise History of Astronomy Michael Hoskin Churchill College, Cambridge Price: AUD$59.95
Status 1 - 2 week delivery
Bindings: Paperback Date of Publication: 18/3/1999 Bibliographic Description: 1999 247 x 174 mm 376pp 35 line diagrams 17 half-tones
Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences, and one which has repeatedly led to fundamental changes in our view of the world and the sciences. This book covers the history of the subject from prehistory through to a survey of modern astronomy (sure to be of interest to future historians!). It does not attempt to cover everything, instead giving extended treatment to the important topics in the history of Western astronomy. This book is an essential text for students of the history of science, and excellent historical background for students of astronomy.
Contents Preface; 1. Astronomy before history Clive Ruggles and Michael Hoskin; 2 Astronomy in antiquity Michael Hoskin; 3. Astronomy in China Christopher Cullen; 4. Islamic astronomy Michael Hoskin and Owen Gingerich; 5. The Astrolabe Michael Hoskin; 6. Medieval Latin astronomy Michael Hoskin and Owen Gingerich; 7. From geometry to physics: astronomy transformed Michael Hoskin; 8. The refracting telescope in the seventeenth century J. A. Bennett; 9. Newton and Newtonianism Michael Hoskin; 10. The astronomy of the universe of stars
Key Features
A textbook of manageable size for students of astronomy and history of science
Begins in prehistory and ends with a survey of contemporary astronomy, emphasizing key themes rather than covering everything
Includes glossary and directions for further reading
` ... this book is one of the most comprehensive histories of the subject I have seen ... a highly readable and fascinating account´. Modern Astronomer
