Updating Moore's
Atlas of the Universe, first published in 1970 and last revised in 1994, this edition utilizes color maps, charts, drawings, and photos to communicate information about the universe obtained on recent space probes. The book is organized into a series of two-page spreads tracing the history of astronomy, space exploration, and telescopes; exploring the solar system in detail; investigating outer-space objects (e.g., meteors, asteroids, and comets); and discussing the sun and other stars. A final section, entitled "The Practical Astronomer," advises amateur astronomers on how to select a telescope and set it up in a home environment.
Each of the two-page overviews packs a great deal of textual and graphic information into its compact format. The narratives are clearly written; however, they discuss complex scientific theories and technological concepts, and they sometimes contain mathematical calculations that require prior familiarity with the subject in order to be understood (e.g., the chapters dealing with star maps and solar system planets). Readers with little scientific background should refer to the nine-page glossary at the end of the book to understand some of the subjects discussed in the main body of atlas.
Almost every two-page spread appears to be revised somewhat from the last edition. The text has been updated and rewritten, and many of the photos were taken within the past five years using advanced telescopic and photographic technology.
The Firefly Atlas of the Universe provides current, accurate, and detailed information on the universe. It is more comprehensive and current than the National Geographic Picture Atlas of Our Universe (rev. ed., 1994), and it is especially helpful when used with Moore's excellent award-winning Astronomy Encyclopedia (Oxford, 2002), which defines and explains many of the concepts of astrophysics integrated into the atlas. Highly recommended for most public and academic libraries, whether or not these libraries have an earlier edition in their collection. RBB
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Review
Beautifully developed atlas... breathtaking pictures and eye-appealing page layouts, includes everything you ever wanted to know about the universe. (Erin De Booy
Winnipeg Free Press 20031207)
Straightforward, but not simplistic, explanations of a wide variety of astronomical objects. (Denise Garofalo
American Reference Books Annual, Volume 35 2004)
Illustrated with stunning images. (Charles Matthews
Knight Ridder Newspapers 20031207)
A great deal of textual and graphical information into its compact format... current accurate, and detailed information on the universe. (
Booklist / RBB 20040301)
Our current state of knowledge and uncertainty is captured beautifully in The Firefly Atlas of the Universe... invaluable and enjoyable. (Jonathan Sher
London Free Press 20031206)
Beautiful, up-to-date oversized volume that is the equivalent of a small astronomy library... superb visual reference and a fine gift. (Terence Dickinson
SkyNew 20030927)
Novice and more-advance amateur astronomers will come away intrigued by and better informed about the night sky. (
Science News 20031102)
Gorgeous new, comprehensive guide... gloriously illustrated... Moore's writing is engaging, and he explains concepts clearly. (Jodi Delong
Halifax Chronicle-Herald 200401)
Presents the universe in straightforward fashion, making it easy to find objects in the sky... Recommended. General readers; undergraduates. (C.S. Dunham
Choice 200401)
A superb reference text for all aspects of astronomy... A treasure trove of detailed star maps.... personable and accessible. (Rebecca Bell
The Science Teacher )
An encyclopedic examination of the stars, planets, and universe with the latest, most comprehensive information currently available. (
Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin )
Impressively organized book covers everything... luminous photographs. (
Globe and Mail )
A beautiful and informative portrait of the cosmos with superb star maps. (
Mercury )
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