Product Description
Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences, and one which has repeatedly led to fundamental changes in our view of the world. This book covers the history of our study of the cosmos from prehistory to a survey of modern astronomy and astrophysics. It does not attempt to cover everything, but deliberately concentrates on the important themes and topics, including stellar astronomy in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries--the source of many important concepts in modern astronomy--and the Copernican revolution, which led to the challenge of ancient authorities in many areas other than astronomy. This is an essential text for students of the history of science and for students of astronomy who require a historical background to their studies.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 3.0 based on 2 reviews)

A status-quo history

I was disappointed greatly with the contents of the book. Hoskin and Gingerich peddle the old Eurocentric view of astronomy. Short shrift is given to the views of scholars such as R.R. Newton and Dennis Rawlins. The presentation of material is very shallow, and the tangled web behind the advances of Kepler and others is not presented. It is like whitewash.
May 29, 2004

Excellent scientific history

Although this appears to be in a coffee-table format, this book covers both history and technical aspects of the subject without oversimplification. Side issues are explained in detail. Illustrations are well-presented, clear and in color when appropriate; very useful in this largely visual subject. The very best history of astronomy I have found.
September 05, 2000

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