Astrophysics of The Solar System

This book attempts to broadly deal with the mechanics and dynamics of the Solar System with additional emphasis on celestial mechanics.

The origin of the solar system has been a matter of speculation for many centuries, and since the time of Newton it has been possible to apply scientific principles to the problem. A succession of theories, starting with that of Pierre Laplace in 1796, has gained general acceptance, only to fall from favor due to its contradiction in some basic scientific principle or new heavenly observation.

An empirical model of the photosphere rests on observations of: the solar constant—which fixes the temperature scale, limb darkening— from which the variation of temperature with depth …

Authors: Seargent, David
Covers a variety of unconventional theories about the formation of the Solar System, the introduction of life on Earth, the nature of comets, and more
Maintains an approachable, informal and non-technical tone accessible to non-specialists
Continues the author's well-received "Weird" series, including "Weird Weather," "Weird Astronomy," "Weird Worlds," and "Weird Universe"

Authors: Vita-Finzi, Claudio
Presents a concise history of the solar system from its origins to the present day
Aimed at a general readership
Abundantly illustrated

This well illustrated book presents a compact history of the Solar System from its dusty origins 4,600,000 years ago to the present day. Its primary aim is to show how the planets and their satellites, comets, meteors, interplanetary dust, solar radiation and cosmic rays continually interact, sometimes violently, and it reflects humanity's progress in exploring and interpreting this history. The book is intended for a general readership at a time when human and robotic exploration of space is often in the news and should also appeal to students at all levels. It covers the essentials but refers to a large literature which can be accessed via the internet.

This well illustrated book presents a compact history of the Solar System from its dusty origins 4,600,000 years ago to the present day. Its primary aim is to show how the planets and their satellites, comets, meteors, interplanetary dust, solar radiation and cosmic rays continually interact, sometimes violently, and it reflects humanity's progress in exploring and interpreting this history. The book is intended for a general readership at a time when human and robotic exploration of space is often in the news and should also appeal to students at all levels. It covers the essentials but refers to a large literature which can be accessed via the internet.