The Sky at Einstein's Feet

by William C. Keel

Specifically traces the impact of Einstein's ideas on astronomy, including the way we interpret observations of stars and galaxies. Includes comments from principals in important discoveries, illuminating the processes behind these results. Presents many applications of relativity that have not been shown in earlier popular-level books and illustrates how deeply physics permeates the way we interpret many astronomical phenomena. Highlights light-travel...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B01CMPMQ0W
• ISBN13: 9780387261300
• Release Date: November 2005
• Publisher: Springer
• Weight: 1.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 6.7" x 9.5"

Customer Reviews

elegant observations

The best aspect of this book is how it explains to an educated reader, who is not an astronomer or physicist, the latest results that confirm Einstein's theories. It is still not a light breezy read. While non-mathematical, you do still need to pay attention to the various concepts as Keel explains them. Some of the observations are very elegant, like gravitational microlensing. And the analysis of the vast data accumulated from IRAS, Hubble and Chandra. What is impressive is how lensing is now no longer used as a test of General Relativity, but as an extremely powerful "telescope" in its own right.

An Amateur Astronomer's Review

A grand book illuminating our understanding of the cosmos, and the amazing techniques used in an array of astronomical observations. Over 100 topics are addressed in a concise and clear style that managed to hold my attention and not leave me hanging, even for the more difficult subjects. Many images are incorporated to help in his subject presentation, and some are used to help build on the wonderful historical perspective inherent in astronomy. Keel also adds warmth to his book by often giving short and personal stories of some specific men and women dedicated to astronomy and physics, as well as, on occasion, share some of his own personal and interesting experiences. As an amateur, I was not overwhelmed with any complicated presentations thanks to his careful explanations of even the tough, thought provoking topics. I definitely recommend this book to any who are hungry to go a little deeper in getting to know how astronomers have been able to ascertain so many new truths about our universe that once stood before Einstein, and now stands before you and me