The Heavens on Fire : The Great Leonid Meteor Storms
Editorial Reviews
Review
'This work represents a unique achievement as it is the first full-length book ever written on the subject of an individual meteor shower - the Leonids ... Overall this is an excellent reference for anyone with an interest in the history of the Leonid meteors or who wants to try to observe the possible storms of the next few years. The writing is very accessible to non specialists, but detailed enough to make it a must-have for meteor enthusiasts.' Peter Brown, Sky and Telescope
'Littmann tells his story with real flair.' Nature
'It is one of those remarkable books that is, at the same time, an authoritative history, a well written and lucid text on the scientific phenomena and a great read. Using a combination ... Littmann walks the reader through the topic in a thoroughly enjoyable fashion ... Readers will find Littmann's book an excellent, and highly recommended, introduction to this research area.' Donald K. Yeomans, Spectrum
Book Description
Meteor succeeded meteor in such rapid succession that it was impossible to count them; at times the sky seemed full of them, and the earth was illuminated as with a morning light. Eye-witness accounts such as this, and every spectacular detail of the Leonids, the greatest meteor showers of all, can be found in the acclaimed The Heavens on Fire. In this volume, author Mark Littmann vividly tells the history of meteors, and especially the Leonids, whose terrifying beauty established meteor science. He traces the history and mythology of meteors, profiles the fascinating figures whose discoveries advanced the field, and explores how meteors have changed the course of life on Earth. Crisp illustrations capture the excitement of past meteor showers and help elucidate important concepts. The returning Leonids are now reaching their peak with great activity expected in 1999 and 2000. For all those who wish to take part in this rare experience, Littmann offers advice on how and where to find the best view. Filled with practical tips, clear explanations, and descriptions of a sight that more than one observer has called "brilliant beyond conception," The Heavens on Fire will delight every reader. Mark Littmann teaches astronomy at the University of Tennessee. His previous books include Comet Halley: Once in a Lifetime and Planets Beyond: Discovering the Outer Solar System. Both books were chosen by the Astronomical Society of the Pacific as Astronomy Books of the Year.
The Heavens on Fire: The Great Leonid Meteor Storms,Mark Littmann,Cambridge University Press,0521624053,Astronomy - General,Comets,Cosmology,Meteors,November,Science,Science/Mathematics,Meteors--November,Popular astronomy,Science / Astronomy
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