"Galaxy : Mapping the Cosmos" by James Geach.

[cotterless45]

Completely absorbing book, really friendly explanations of the structure and workings of galaxies. Very much up to date ( October 2014) and covering a wide field of relevant topics.

I particularly enjoyed the wonderful Hubble photos, X ray and other sources. These were accompanied by clear explanations of what you were looking at and the various large detectors being set up worldwide.

There are some fascinating connections between quantum effects and radio sources. I read 170 pages non stop in the first evening.

I'll certainly be observing galaxies with some explanations in mind. I don't think that I've read a clearer or more exciting book on the subject,

Nick.

[Damo636]

Thanks for the heads up Nick, just placed an order for it.

[ronb]

Received the book this morning. Looks interesting so am looking forward to reading it. I just hope it isn't too deep for me to understand!!!! Plenty of brilliant photos though so I won't be disappointed if I can't understand it.

[paulastro]

Thanks Nick.  I've read other good things about this book - very tempting!