Observational Astrophysics

Robert C. Smith (Author)

9780521278348, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 30 June 1995

468 pages
23.5 x 19.1 x 2.4 cm, 0.8 kg

Observational Astrophysics provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the whole of modern astrophysics beyond the Solar System. It combines a critical account of observational methods (telescopes and instrumentation) with a lucid description of the Universe, including stars, galaxies and cosmology. The first half describes the techniques used by astronomers to observe the Universe: optical telescopes and instruments are discussed in detail, but observations at all wavelengths are covered, from radio to gamma-rays. After a short interlude describing the appearance of the sky at all wavelengths, the role of positional astronomy is highlighted. In the second half, a clear description is given of the contents of the Universe, including accounts of stellar evolution and cosmological models. Fully illustrated throughout, with exercises given in each chapter, this textbook provides a thorough introduction to astrophysics for all physics undergraduates, and a valuable background for physics graduates turning to research in astronomy.

List of illustrations
List of tables
Preface
1. Seeing through the fog
2. Optical telescopes
3. Optical detectors and instruments
4. Radio telescopes and techniques
5. Observing at other wavelengths
6. Interlude - pictures of the sky
7. Coordinates and time
8. Magnitude systems and stellar spectra
9. Properties of stars
10. Stellar structure and evolution
11. Properties of galaxies
12. Our galaxy
13. The distribution of galaxies
14. The distance scale of the universe
15. The universe
16. Postlude
Index.

Subject Areas: Astrophysics [PHVB]