Synopses & Reviews
Our Worlds provides a rare "insider" look into the universe and planetary science during the current golden age of space exploration. Readers are guided on an exciting voyage of discovery by eight distinguished researchers who explore the universe with cutting edge techniques. From Chief Scientist on NASA's New Millennium Program Ellen Stofan to planetary theorist Bill McKinnon, each writes from a personal point of view, sharing to the fullest the science and emotion found in the most enticing discoveries and the wonders of the solar system. This volume gives readers an up-close view of Mars, Venus, and the Moon; a trip with Halley's Comet; a visit to the moons of Io, Titan, and Triton; and the ability to experience asteroids in their natural element. Coverage details the most current knowledge of the solar system learned from space missions, including Magellan and Galileo. This volume fully captures the breadth of planetary science, from inner to outer worlds, from telescopic to robotic exploration, and provides an unique glimpse into the drives and interests of the men and women behind the science. It is the most encompassing book on the subject to date and will interest anyone who looks at the night sky and wonders what it would feel like to be able to get a closer look. Alan Stern is a planetary scientist and astrophysicist with both observational and theoretical interests. He is the leader of the Southwest Research Institute's Geophysical, Astrophysical, and Planetary Science group located in Boulder, CO.
Synopsis
What have Apollo, Voyager, Magellan and Galileo told us about the solar system? In Our Worlds, eight planetary scientists explain what we know about their favourite world and why they find it fascinating to explore with space age techniques. Writing with passion and punch, distinguished researchers give a unique insight into planetary science during today's golden age of discovery. In this voyage of exploration you meet Mars, Venus, and the Moon, take a trip with Comet Halley, visit the moons Io, Titan, and Triton, and see asteroids close up.
Synopsis
Planetary scientists explain what we know about their favorite worlds. In this voyage of exploration you meet Mars, Venus, and the Moon, take a trip with Comet Halley, visit the moons Io, Titan, and Triton, and see asteroids close up.
Table of Contents
Preface Alan Stern; Introduction Alan Stern; 1. Exploring Mars Steve Squyres 2. Venus: the way we might have been Ellen Stofan; 3. Moonlighting Carle Pieters; 4. Small worlds, close up Clark Chapman; 5. Cruisin' with Comet Halley Paul Weissman; 6. Io and I John Spencer; 7. Titan: a world seen but darkly Jonathan Lunine; 8. Triton is doomed Bill McKinnon.