Böcker av Stephen P. Maran

Embark on your own personal journey into the night sky. Stardate: Today!Ever catch yourself staring up at the night sky and wondering just what the heck is out there? While no one book can answer all your questions, Astronomy For Dummies will take you on a tour through the Milky Way (and beyond!) that describes some of the most fascinating objects in the universe.This book comes complete with online access to chapter quizzes and downloadable full-color astronomical photos of our universe, as well as easy-to-follow explanations of the eye-popping wonders and gorgeous interstellar objects that populate our solar system, galaxy, and universe. You'll find:* Brand-new star charts for the northern and southern hemispheres, as well as descriptions of the latest tech tools for amateur astronomers* Lists of the most recently discovered exoplanets, exomoons, and exocomets hurtling through the cosmos* The latest timelines for dazzling solar events and maps to the best places to see them live and in-personFilled with discussions of the biggest and greatest new breakthroughs and an 8-page color insert packed with unbelievable, full-color photographs, Astronomy For Dummies is a can't-miss book that will ignite a passion for understanding the mysteries of the universe in children and adults alike!

When the International Astronomical Union (IAU) adopted a new definition of a "planet" in August 2006, Pluto became a dwarf planet, drawing a divisive line in science and public opinions. The controversy of whether Pluto is a planet continues years later, and passion about the decision remains, pitting scientist against scientist and invoking sentiments and nostalgia from the rest of the world. With the IAU definition, the future of space objects is forever changed. Learn how this resolution came to be and what it means for astronomy, who implemented it and who is against it, and whether it's the first or millionth time the world's view of astronomy has rotated on its axis. Written by an astronomer and educator who voted for the IAU resolution--Laurence A. Marschall--and a NASA scientist who supported the opposing petition that resulted--Stephen P. Maran--"Pluto Confidential" leaves no perspective out and no asteroid unturned in the Pluto debate. A telescopic look inside the book: History of planetary disputes, including why Jupiter almost wasn't acknowledgedWhat Bode's Law is and how it has influenced observationsWho discovered Pluto and how it was namedThe Kuiper Belt and its role in what it means to be a planetBeyond Pluto and the eight distinguished planets