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Accidental astronomy : how random discoveries shape the science of space  Cover Image Book Book

Accidental astronomy : how random discoveries shape the science of space / Chris Lintott.

Lintott, Chris, (author.).

Summary:

"If you learn about the scientific method, you learn that first we hypothesize about something we've experienced, and then we look for more of it. This works well enough--but what if you were interested in studying a heretofore unknown comet or supernova? That is the essential problem of the astronomer: the most important discoveries happen without notice! Indeed, as Chris Lintott argues in Accidental Astronomy, luck defines astronomy. Lintott explores the ways in which happenstance shapes how we investigate the sky. To catch a glimpse of a comet, asteroid, or even a sign of alien life, we must be in the right place at the right time. And if we can't be there, we must have a team of professionals and amateurs, across the globe, ready to spring in to action at a moment's--or night's--notice. For any astronomer, regardless of their experience or resources, the first step to discovery is the same: to stare at the sky and wait. A celebration of astronomy, stargazing, and cosmic discovery, Accidental Astronomy offers an irresistible window into how luck defines our knowledge of the skies." -- Provided by publisher.

Record details

  • ISBN: 9781541605411
  • ISBN: 1541605411
  • Physical Description: 308 pages : illustrations ; 25 cm
  • Edition: First US edition.
  • Publisher: New York : Basic Books, 2024.

Content descriptions

General Note:
"Originally published in 2024 by Torva in the United Kingdom."
Bibliography, etc. Note:
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Formatted Contents Note:
Is it aliens? -- The fountains of Enceladus -- The scout from really, really far away -- Celestial vermin -- Penguins over Venus -- Staring into space -- Listening to the universe -- The oldest light of all -- The changing sky.
Subject: Astronomy > Popular works.
Discoveries in science > Popular works.
Life on other planets > Popular works.
Genre: Informational works.
Instructional and educational works.
Illustrated works.

Available copies

  • 12 of 12 copies available at Missouri Evergreen. (Show)
  • 3 of 3 copies available at Jefferson County.

Holds

  • 0 current holds with 12 total copies.
Show Only Available Copies
Location Call Number / Copy Notes Barcode Shelving Location Status Due Date
Jefferson County Library-Arnold 520 LINTOTT (Text) 30061100314679 Non-Fiction Available -
Jefferson County Library-Northwest 520 LINTOTT (Text) 30051100314688 Non-Fiction Available -
Jefferson County Library-Windsor 520 LINTOTT (Text) 30065100314696 Non-Fiction Available -


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