• Edited by Ian Ridpath, prolific astronomy author and broadcaster, with the help of more than 20 expert contributors
• Contains over 4,300 entries on all aspects of astronomy
• Worldwide coverage of telescopes and observatories such as the Atacama Cosmology Telescope and the European Northern Observatory
• Biographical entries on eminent astronomers such as Ptolemy, Hubble, and Halley
• Includes highlighted entries on key topics such as Big Bang theory, black holes, galaxy evolution, and SETI
• Supplementary material includes a new table of planetary data, Apollo lunar landing missions, and an A to Z of variable star types
• Contains entry-level web links that are listed and regularly updated on a companion website

New to this Edition:

• All entries have been revised and updated to reflect recent developments in the field of astronomy
• Approximately 50 new entries, such as Juno, Plutoid, and Interstellar Boundary Explorer
• A new appendix listing planetary data
• Entry-level web links are listed and regularly updated on a companion website, expanding the scope of the dictionary

 
The revised second edition of this established dictionary contains over 4,300 up-to-date entries covering all aspects of astronomy. Compiled with the help of over 20 expert contributors under the editorship of renowned author and broadcaster Ian Ridpath, A Dictionary of Astronomy covers everything from space exploration and the equipment involved, to astrophysics, cosmology, and the concept of time. The dictionary also includes biographical entries on eminent astronomers, as well as worldwide coverage of observatories and telescopes. Supplementary material is included in the appendices, such as tables of Apollo lunar landing missions and the constellations, a table of planetary data, and numerous other tables and diagrams complement the entries.

The entries have been fully revised and updated for this edition, and new entries have been added to reflect the recent developments within the field of astronomy, including magnetic reconnection, Fornax cluster, luminosity density, and Akatsuki. The content is enhanced by entry-level web links, which are listed and regularly updated on a companion website.

A Dictionary of Astronomy is an invaluable reference source for students, professionals, amateur astronomers, and space enthusiasts.