Astronomy Methods

A 2003 introduction to basic practical tools, methods and phenomena that underlie quantitative astronomy.

This introduction to basic practical tools, methods and phenomena in quantitative astronomy covers topics across a wide range of areas, from radio to gamma-ray wavelengths. Clear presentations of the topics are accompanied by diagrams and problem sets. Written for undergraduates and graduate students, the book will introduce them to the practice and study of quantitative and analytical astronomy and astrophysics.

1. Astronomy through the centuries; 2. Electromagnetic radiation; 3. Co-ordinate systems and charts; 4. Gravity, celestial motions, and time; 5. Telescopes; 6. Detectors and statistics; 7. Multiple telescope interferometry; 8. Point-like and extended sources; 9. Properties and distances of celestial objects; 10. Absorption and scattering of photons; 11. Spectra of electromagnetic radiation; 12. Astronomy beyond photons.