- ISBN13: 9781852338909
- Condition: NEW
- Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
Product Description
Astrophysics is a subject that is often – with some justification – regarded as extremely difficult, requiring at least degree-level mathematics as a prerequisite to its understanding. Consequently, many amateur astronomers just don’t bother, and miss out on the fascinating fundamentals of the subject, and often on an understanding of exactly what they are observing. Mike Inglis’ quantitative approach to astrophysics cuts through all the incomprehensible mathematic… More >>
Astrophysics is Easy!: An Introduction for the Amateur Astronomer
Tags: amateur astronomer, amateur astronomers, astrophysics, degree level, incomprehensible, justification, level mathematics, mike inglis, prerequisite, quantitative approach
#1 by J. Wallace on June 28, 2010 - 2:57 pm
Don’t let the size of this book fool you. It is packed with useful information and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about what they see in the night sky. Each section of the book has example objects to view…I really like that aspect of this book.
Don’t be concerned about too much technical/mathematical detail. The material is presented in a way that’s “meaty” and concise which makes it easy to get the most out of it.
Prior to reading this book I read a college level astronomy text and several amateur astronomy books. I would say this is an important addition to any amateur astronomer’s bookshelf. The material is up to date and well presented.
Rating: 5 / 5
#2 by Michael A. Duvernois on June 28, 2010 - 5:52 pm
This is a great little book. Whenever I give a talk on my astrophysics research (in high energy cosmic rays and neutrinos) to the amateur astronomers, I mention this book as a good step for expanding their knowledge of the science underlying their hobby. Professional and amateur astronomy are a long distance apart, though many scientists got interested in science first from looking at the skies. This book helps bridge the gap somewhat.
Rating: 5 / 5
#3 by M. Kramer on June 28, 2010 - 8:07 pm
This book is exactly what we needed to study for a non-calculus based astronomy exam. Broad coverage combined with detailed mathematical calculations plus informative text makes this the best book on the market. There are many introductory astronomy texts that are also excellent but less mathematical, so get one of those too, but use this for help with astronomy problem solving.
Rating: 5 / 5
#4 by Busy Bee on June 28, 2010 - 8:58 pm
The Universe is full of Wonders which many of us may never be aware of, comprehend or fully appreciate. For many, the scientific methods and tools used to learn and understand the Universe seem to be out of the grasp. Unfortunately, even dedicated Amateur Astronomers are susceptible to this myth as many may believe that these scientific discoveries and methods belong to a special kind of people in science institutes and collages. This book comes to prove that it’s possible to learn how to unravel and understand some of the universe’s hidden treasures and mysteries without literally go out on a limb.
You start by understanding the Measurements of Star Magnitudes, Luminosity, and Temperature and even get a grasp on the most important tool used by Astronomers the popular tool HR Diagram. Know how to classify stars and understand their formation and demise. Learn how to appreciate the beauty of Clusters, Nebulas and the power of Supernova’s and Black holes. I have to admit, there is a bit of math in there, you can easily follow its logic and apply it to real life examples and get the results that previously looked like Gobbledygook belonging to the realm of Mad Scientists. Its not easy reading, you do need to read it carefully, a reread it again and again to gain the level of understanding required to appreciate its contents. There are many books out there on Astronomy, some are quiet rich in content and literally latterly quiet heavy, but this one is simple, brief and enjoyable.
Rating: 5 / 5
#5 by Cheok Gaik Foon on June 28, 2010 - 9:05 pm
Being an amateur astronomer, I was hoping for a book that would bring me to the astrophysics section as most of my astronomy books are all guide books for beginners. I am pleased that the book was delivered on time. The author was also very enthusiastic about the topic and presented astrophysics, usually known to many as a difficult and tedious topic in a light manner. The math used is only to a small extent but the important parts are kept. It is relatively easy to understand and it can serve as an introduction to those wanting to take astronomy courses.
I recommend this book to those wanting to pursue astronomy at a higher level.
Astrophysics is Easy!: An Introduction for the Amateur Astronomer (Patrick Moore’s Practical Astronomy Series)
Rating: 5 / 5