What's Out There: Images from Here to the Edge of the Universe

Starting with a dazzling, composite edge-on view of the Milky Way, and then proceeding alphabetically from ""Asteroid"" to ""WMAP"" (for NASA's Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe), Baumann and company have crafted a spectacular odyssey of the universe. Many of the images are simply breathtaking, such as those of the Seifert galaxy, NGC 3079, the pulsars and the Rosette nebula frontispiece that begins the book. Photographs-taken with both earth- and space-based equipment, including the Mars Express and Magellan-are delightfully sharp, fit for showing off cracks on the surface of Europa and the detailed structure of the Cat's Eye Nebula. Accompanied by lucid and informative text for each feature, the book also includes a section at the end that briefly describes each observatory, its location, its capabilities and history. There is also an informative, illuminating essay on the science behind the images that will only increase a reader's appreciation for the beautiful full-color plates. Fully comprehensible for adults, and including a glossary of terms, this volume will hold great appeal for children and students.