Synopses & Reviews
The most comprehensive account of Australian astronomy to date.
Review
"Highly readable, thorough, well referenced and beautifully illustrated Explorers of the Southern Sky: a History of Australian Astronomy is a tome worth having." New Scientist"The poignant illustrations, explanatary figures, and photographs of people not only document the course of events, but provide an excellent human perspective to this outstanding work." Science Books and Films"A well written and thorough work." Choice"...the book will interest a large cross section of people-students, astronomers, historians, and general readers." Isis"...the clarity of presentation is admirable and the stories move along briskly, covering a wide range. Altogether, a great book." American Scientist
Synopsis
This well-illustrated volume is the most comprehensive account of Australian astronomy to date. It is both an indispensable reference book on the history of astronomy in Australia, and a highly readable study of a scientific discipline in the context of emerging nationhood. The non-technical language, many illustrations, and explanatory figures, ensure that this guide will appeal to a wide range of readers.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [500]-506) and indexes.
Table of Contents
Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. Dreaming the stars; 2. Sailing south for a new sky; 3. Astronomy in Sydney town; 4. The struggle for independence; 5. A bid for fame; 6. For love of the subject; 7. Astronomy on a national basis; 8. From swords to ploughshares; 9. Radio astronomy and the big telescopes; 10. Entrepreneurs in astronomy; 11. The advantage of latitude; 12. The high-energy frontier; 13. Diversity through innovation; 14. Optical astronomy goes high tech; 15. A telescope as wide as a continent; Glossary of abbreviations; Glossary of scientific and technical words; Bibliography; Index of names and dates; Subject index.