Patrick Moore - Astronomy for O Level

[Moonshane]

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Astronomy-Level-Sir-Patrick-Moore/dp/0715604570

I cannot even recall where I got this little book and have not until recently even picked it up but I have to say that if you are looking for a well written, enjoyable and informative summary and introduction to astronomy I don't think you could do that much better.

Whilst I have not read the whole thing yet, and as it is written in 1970 there may be the odd thing that's out of date, I can confirm that the content is excellent and there is even recommended further reading and some questions at the end of each chapter. Whilst obviously designed for those taking the formal qualification at the time, these questions allow you to test yourself and see what you know / remember too.

Chapter 1 : Introduction

Chapter 2 : Astronomy Through the Ages

Chapter 3 : The Earth in Space

Chapter 4 : The Celestial Sphere

Chapter 5 : Time

Chapter 6 : Radiation

Chapter 7 : Telescopes

Chapter 8 : Gravitation

Chapter 9 : Satellites and Space Probes

Chapter 10 : The Sun

Chapter 11 : The Moon

Chapter 12 : The Planets

Chapter 13 ; Comets and Meteors

Chapter 14 : The Stars

Chapter 15 : Systems of Stars

At the end of the book are some projects : making a small refractor and some observing tasks.

I can highly recommend this book for anyone able to appreciate the content. It's cheap and really deserves a place on any astronomer's shelf - even if it's only purpose is to lend it to newly indoctrinated friends!

[Moonshane]

ps. I have not seen the new version (Astronomy for GCSE) but this can also be bought new http://www.amazon.co.uk/Astronomy-GCSE-Sir-Patrick-Moore/dp/0715629697/ref=pd_vtp_b_1/279-9101900-2247142

[Bizibilder]

Bought a copy, read it until it was worn out, got an "A" (back in 1970). Wrote to PM to thank him and still have his typed reply on a postcard somewhere!

[baggywrinkle]

I too used this book, dropped French and took astronomy and got an A.....pity I got sod all for maths. That was in 1972

[alan potts]

My brother used to have a copy, we both did the exam years ago 71 I think. we paseed with A's too. I remember it being a very easy to read book, then all of SPM are, he made everything seem easy.

Alan.

[rl]

Read this book in 1974. Begged the school to let me take the exam in 1975; passed with an "A". I threw away the book years later in a clearout and then ended up buying it back off amazon just for old times sake. Clear, simple and inspirational.

RL

[hunterknox]

I bought the Moore/Lintott GCSE version when I was first starting out and would also recommend it.