Probing the New Solar System
By: John Wilkinson
Discoveries made about our Solar System using ground-based and space probe technology.
Exploration by space probes has revealed many fascinating details about Earth’s planetary neighbours. Today we stand on the threshold of the next phase of planetary exploration and knowledge, with several space probe missions currently underway and others being planned. + Full description
Probing the New Solar System discusses the latest findings that have contributed to a changed understanding of the solar system – and how the revised definition of a planet in 2006 by the International Astronomical Union affected this understanding.
Each chapter includes some historical information, ‘Did you know?’ items of particular interest to readers, and photographs of objects in the solar system showing newly discovered features of the planets, their moons and of dwarf planets.
This is an up-to-date record of the many recent discoveries made about our solar system and other planetary systems using ground-based and space probe technology. It has been written for people interested in astronomy, both professional and amateur, as well as for students and educators.
- Short descriptionNews
This title is now out of print.
Reviews
"The tables are very well organised and effective in conveying the history of exploration in the solar system, from the Earth, moon, and sun to each of the planet and minor objects such as asteroids. The excellent illustrations and images enhance the text, and important terms appear in bold typeface."
M. Hemenway, Choice Magazine, September 2009
“I found the history of space discovery interesting and the discussion about the reasons for changes in classification well presented. I found this a very readable book and I think it would be a valuable addition to any school library, and the book shelves of teachers and others who are genuinely interested in our Solar System and the current state of space research.”
LabTalk, July 2009
"I enjoyed reading the book and I would recommend it to anyone interested in the expanding knowledge of our solar system and in the possible future direction of solar system research."
Barry Adcock, The Crux (Astronomical Society of Victoria), April 2009
"This book is an up-to-date record of the many recent discoveries made using ground-based and space probe technology."
Abbey's Bookshop, January 2009
Details
ePDF | January 2009ISBN: 9780643096851
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers
ePUB | January 2009
ISBN: 9780643099494
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers
Features
- The book provides the latest (2008) information about the Solar System and is based on the recent definition of what a planet is
- The book draws heavily on recent data obtained from space probes (those of NASA, the European Space Agency and others)
- The latest photos of objects in the Solar System have been used throughout to illustrate newly discovered features of the planets, their moons, and of dwarf planets
- The text includes ‘Did you know’ items of particular interest to readers
- The final chapter includes details about newly discovered solar systems around other stars (exoplanets)
Related titles
