In an overview of “where we stand today,” Peter Bond describes the remarkable achievements of the astronomers, space scientists, and engineers who have made it possible to unravel the mysteries of the distant worlds that make up our Solar System. A clearly written and compelling account of the Space Age, Distant Worlds includes:
- Dramatic descriptions of the daring, resourcefulness, and competitive zeal of renowned as well as almost-forgotten planetary pioneers.
- Clear explanations of how natural philosophers and observers first took the measure of the heavens, paving the way for the discoveries of modern astornomy and the Space Age.
- More that 250 illustrations, including photographs, maps, artists’ impressions, and explanatory diagrams—many of them in full color.
- Comprehensive, up-to-date appendices that detail the physical and orbital properties of the major members of our Solar System, as well as a comprehensive list of the Solar System missions launched over the last fifty years.
Organized into twelve chapters that provide in-depth accounts of the individual planets, our Moon, and the asteroids and comets, Bond shows how the great enterprise of planetary exploration can justifiably be regarded as one of the great triumphs of human civilization.
Peter Bond is an award-winning author and lifelong space enthusiast. He obtained an honors degree in geography from London University, began a teaching career, and published his first book in 1987. Since then he has worked as a space journalist, contributing to magazines and newspapers. He appears regularly on TV and radio to comment on the latest space discoveries and events. In addition to writing eight books, he is a consultant/writer for the European Space Agency.
Peter Bond
Distant Worlds
Milestones in Planetary Exploration
2007. X, 326 pp.
Hardcover. EUR 26.95, £ 19.50, sFr 44.50, $ 32.50
ISBN 978-0-387-40212-3