Author Description

This is a clear and simple introduction to the calculations that form the basis of all astronomical laws and observations. Most elementary astronomy books are purely descriptive, while textbooks of mathematical astronomy assume a considerable knowledge of mathematics. Here the author relies only on simple 'school maths' to help the amateur widen his horizons and interpret his observations. Although this is a book that can be read straight through for pleasure, there are many suggestions of practical things to do both indoors and outdoors, while for the person who wishes to gain real confidence is making calculations of, for example, stellar and planetary positions, there are exercises to work through and answers to them. Metric measurements are used throughout and appendices provide such useful information as symbols, abbreviations and almanacs. There are over forty line diagrams.