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Since ancient times, human beings have been curious about and fascinated with the remote sky, and this curiosity and fascination have boosted humans’ inquisition into the sky and invented various techniques in observational astronomy. The course is designed not only to present a volume of knowledge, but also to arouse students’ curiosity about how nature works. A wide range of topics will be covered, ranging from the origin of modern astronomy, observational astronomy to techniques in measuring celestial objects, from the solar system to stellar evolution. Moreover, traditional Chinese astronomy will be introduced.
This book aims to expand knowledge of astronomy, from recognizing the Moon and a few stars in the evening sky, to a deeper understanding of the extent, power, and diversity of the Universe. It focuses strongly on the scientific method throughout the text, using astronomy to explore and explain fundamental scientific principles and processes. This edition features the "How Do We Know?" boxes that highlight great moments in science from various disciplines to illustrate the logical processes scientists use to learn about nature. "Practicing Science" features help to review key concepts and hone critical thinking skills by considering how scientists construct logical arguments from observations, evidence, theories, and natural laws.
In this book, Plait clears up misconceptions and malarkey relating to our Earth, moon, and the wider Universe. Ranging from commonly misunderstood notions such as why the sky is blue and the reason we have seasons, to large-scale shenanigans such as the so-called moon landing hoax and UFO sightings, this book wipes the stardust from readers' eyes to reveal just how the Universe works. Not only does Plait clearly explain the principles behind major concepts like the Big Bang, he leads readers to understand basics such as what makes the Moon look big when it rises and why the planets -- and astrology-- cannot directly influence our lives.
《天問》傳說是二千多年前楚國大詩人屈原（前340-前278）的作品，用172個問題，質疑天、地、人的過去和現狀、宇宙的起源、星體的排列和運行、晝夜、四季的更迭、大地的形成；作者也講述神靈、古人的功績和遭遇，慨嘆賞罰的不公。本書用淺顯的文字，介紹天文學的發展歷程和現況，提出關於「天」的問題，也寫出已知的答案；例如〈天問〉關於宇宙初闢的質疑終於得到適當的解答。更展望將來，介紹新問題的可能解答方向。
