Stars and their Spectra

The study of stars and their spectra is central to an understanding of classical and modern astronomy. The principal tool for investigating the nature of stars is to observe and interpret their spectra. In this lucid book, James Kaler clearly explains the alphabet of stellar astronomy - from the cool M stars to hot O stars - and tells the story of the evolution of stars and their place in the Universe. Before embarking on a fascinating voyage of cosmic discovery, we are introduced to the fundamental properties of stars, and how they can be categorised. Next, the structure of atoms and the formation of spectra is discussed, as a prelude to a full description of the spectral classification itself. The heart of the book examines each star type in turn and explores their spectra in detail. Notable discoveries and features related to each class sustain the story. There is also a review of unusual stars that cannot easily be classified. Finally, the book closes with a skilful integration of all the data - tracing the paths of birth, life and death of stars on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. This book is based on a widely acclaimed series of articles on stellar astronomy which appeared in the magazine Sky and Telescope. It provides an invaluable introduction for observers and students.

• Presents the largest collection of stellar spectra ever assembled for the general reader
• HB edition was recommended in Sky and Telescope (October 96) as the best book on the subject available
• An invaluable reference for amateur astronomers, and an introductory textbook for undergraduates in astronomy
• Includes a clear, deep explanation of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram - the stellar astronomers' most powerful tool
• Provides a lucid description of the spectral sequence of stars and how stellar spectra are formed
• A separate, extensive star index allows the user to easily locate descriptions of different types of stars, and spectra illustrating their properties