Gauging the Solar System: Measuring Astronomical Values for Yourself - Softcover

Cowley, E. Roger

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1535376856 ISBN 13: 9781535376853

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2016

Synopsis

Measuring solar system values for yourself is a good way to develop an understanding of the geometry and dynamics of the Sun and its planetary system. It also turns out to be a lot of fun. This book describes the author's measurements of more than fifty solar system values, ranging from the length of a synodic month to the inclinations from the ecliptic of the various planetary orbits. For most of the measurements no equipment is necessary beyond a pair of binoculars, a DSLR camera, and patience. The math behind the numbers is presented, but, for the most part, it is placed in separate appendices. The book is written more or less in the form of a diary, documenting how the author figured out how to measure the various numbers. His message is not "Look what I've done", but "Look what you can do!" Have fun.

About this title

About the Author

Dr. Cowley is an emeritus professor of physics and chemistry from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. During his academic career he published more than eighty papers and book chapters on condensed matter and statistical physics and also received multiple awards for his teaching. He has a long-standing interest in amateur astronomy. He is a member of the West Jersey Astronomical Society and is currently serving as its president.

Edition details

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 1535376856
• ISBN 13: 9781535376853
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 224