Pluto
Pluto
$38.99
USDOrbiting at the edge of the outer Solar System, Pluto is an intriguing object in astronomy. Since the fascinating events surrounding its discovery, it has helped increase our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Solar System, and raised questions about the nature and benefits of scientific classification. This is a timely and exciting account of Pluto and its satellites. The author uses Pluto as a case study to discuss discovery in astronomy, how remote astronomical bodies are investigated, and the role of classification in science by discussing Pluto's recent classification as a dwarf planet. Besides Pluto, the book also explores the rich assortment of bodies that constitute the Edgeworth–Kuiper Belt, of which Pluto is the largest innermost member. Richly illustrated, this text is written for general readers, amateur astronomers and students alike. Boxed text provides more advanced information especially for readers who wish to delve deeper into the subject.
- Shows how studies of Pluto have increased our knowledge in important areas in planetary science, including the origin and evolution of the Solar System
- Uses Pluto as a case study to illustrate how remote astronomical bodies are investigated, and the role of classification in science
- Explores the entire Edgeworth–Kuiper Belt, of which Pluto is the innermost member
Reviews & endorsements
"The author writes in a clear, matter-of-fact style, including sidebars on related subjects from Kepler’s laws of planetary motion to calculating a planet’s surface temperature using nothing more complex than high school algebra. Jones’s thorough approach offers popular science readers pretty much everything known about mysterious Pluto...." - Publishers Weekly
"All in all an excellent book which includes some Figures reproduced in colour and archive-quality paper − thoroughly recommended to all those wishing to read up about Pluto ahead of the New Horizons encounter with the 'planet'." Richard Miles, J. Br. Astron. Assoc.
"Presented in a style that gives the feel of a friendly uncle telling stories over coffee at the dinner table. It is a most relaxing and enjoyable read...this book strikes me as a perfect gift for a young teenager with an interest in space." - Brother Guy Consolmagno, Meteoritics & Planetary Science Journal
Product details
October 2010Hardback
9780521194365
244 pages
235 × 161 × 13 mm
0.54kg
77 b/w illus. 9 colour illus.
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. The Solar System
- 2. The discovery of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto
- 3. Pluto, a diminishing world
- 4. Pluto's family
- 5. Surfaces, atmospheres, interiors of Pluto and Charon
- 6. The Edgeworth–Kuiper belt
- 7. Is Pluto a planet?
- 8. The New Horizons mission to Pluto (and beyond)
- 9. Pluto: gateway to beyond?
- Glossary
- Further reading and other resources
- Index.
