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  • Cited by 7
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press
Online publication date:
October 2013
Print publication year:
2013
Online ISBN:
9781107045255

Book description

Join David J. Eicher in this fast-paced and entertaining journey through the history, present, and future of these important yet mysterious cosmic bodies. From ancient times, humans have been fascinated by 'broom stars' and 'blazing scimitars' lighting up the sky and moving against the fixed background of stars. The Great Comets of our time still receive in-depth attention - ISON, Hale-Bopp, Hyakutake, West, and others - while recent spacecraft encounters offer amazing insight into the earliest days of the solar system. In this guide you will discover the cutting-edge science of what comets are, how they behave, where they reside, how groups of comets are related, and much more. The author carefully explores the ideas relating comets and life on Earth - and the danger posed by impacts. He finishes with practical, how-to techniques, tips, and tricks on how to successfully observe comets and even to capture your own images of them.

Reviews

‘David J. Eicher has written a wonderful, up-to-date book on the history and science of comets. The book is written in a more conversational style, with occasional humor thrown in, and is not too technical. The result is a very enjoyable read for everyone.'

Gary W. Kronk - author of the ‘Cometography: A Catalog of Comets' series

‘Eicher's book brings the magical world of comets to life. It is not an arcane mathematical textbook but a celebration of these slowly wandering objects.'

David H. Levy - author and discoverer of 22 comets

'Highly readable … a lovely guide to comets that will remain valuable long after (Comet ISON) has departed our skies.'

Source: BBC Sky at Night Magazine

'The author is enthusiastic and knowledgeable, capable of conveying his enthusiasm intelligently. He doesn’t overwhelm the reader with complex mathematics but explains the science quite clearly.'

Rosie Cawkwell Source: Rosie Writes

'Eicher … has a way with words. Clarity, joy, inquisitiveness, and knowledge grace every page. It is clear that he is a great comet fan and we are very fortunate that he has taken the time to share his enthusiasm with us.'

Source: The Observatory

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Contents

Bibliography
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