Astronomy Methods
A Physical Approach to Astronomical Observations

A 2003 introduction to basic practical tools, methods and phenomena that underlie quantitative astronomy.

Hale Bradt (Author)

9780521535519, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 11 December 2003

458 pages, 108 b/w illus. 16 tables 89 exercises
24.4 x 17 x 2.4 cm, 0.91 kg

'… a brilliant addition to the pedagogy. It is timely, focused, well written, and at the appropriate level … Astronomy Methods will be useful to all students of astronomy and astrophysics, irrespective of whether they intend to specialize in observational astronomy. The material can be adapted easily for various related courses, which makes the book even more valuable.' Physics Today

Astronomy Methods, first published in 2003, is an introduction to the basic practical tools, methods and phenomena that underlie quantitative astronomy. Taking a technical approach, the author covers a rich diversity of topics across all branches of astronomy, from radio to gamma-ray wavelengths. Topics include the quantitative aspects of the electromagnetic spectrum, atmospheric and interstellar absorption, telescopes in all wavebands, interferometry, adaptive optics, the transport of radiation through matter to form spectral lines, and neutrino and gravitational-wave astronomy. Clear, systematic presentations of the topics are accompanied by diagrams and problem sets. Written for undergraduates and graduate students, this book contains a wealth of information that is required for the practice and study of quantitative and analytical astronomy and astrophysics.

1. Astronomy through the centuries
2. Electromagnetic radiation
3. Co-ordinate systems and charts
4. Gravity, celestial motions, and time
5. Telescopes
6. Detectors and statistics
7. Multiple telescope interferometry
8. Point-like and extended sources
9. Properties and distances of celestial objects
10. Absorption and scattering of photons
11. Spectra of electromagnetic radiation
12. Astronomy beyond photons.

Subject Areas: Astrophysics [PHVB], Astronomical observation: observatories, equipment & methods [PGG]