Title
A History of Astronomy from Thales to Kepler (Dover Books on Astronomy),New
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This is the only detailed history of early astronomy available in English. Formerly published under the title History of the Planetary Systems from Thales to Kepler, it is recognized as a masterpiece of both historical insight and scientific accuracy.Beginning with the astronomical ideas of the ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and prephilosophic Greeks (Homer and Hesiod), it moves up through Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes, Xenophanes, Parmenides, Heraclitus, Empedocles, Democritus, and other early Greek cosmologists. The Pythagoreans are considered next, with their occasionally remarkable anticipations of modernity, and then Platos astronomical thought. The enormously important system of concentric spheres for planets, usually associated with Eudoxus, is described in detail, followed by a discussion of Aristotle, Heraclides, and Aristarchus. The theory of epicycles which held for almost 2,000 years is then considered, with chapters on the dimensions of the world and the finished Ptolemaic system.Medieval European and Islamic cosmologies are then described in detail. Nicolas of Cusa, Regiomontanus, Calcagnini, and other transitional figures from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance are then followed by detailed chapters on Copernicus, Tycho Brahe, and Kepler.Standard reference on Greek astronomy and the Copernican revolution. Sky and Telescope.A classical book in the field of the history of astronomy. Philosophy and Science.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'A History of Astronomy from Thales to Kepler'? A: The book offers a detailed history of early astronomy, covering key figures and ideas from ancient civilizations through to the Renaissance, including the contributions of the Egyptians, Greeks, and notable astronomers like Copernicus and Kepler.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The book is authored by J. L. E. Dreyer, a recognized historian of astronomy.
- Q: What topics are covered in the book? A: The book discusses early astronomical ideas, the development of cosmological theories, and significant figures in astronomy, including Thales, Plato, Aristotle, Copernicus, Tycho Brahe, and Kepler.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in astronomy? A: Yes, the book is written in an accessible manner, making it suitable for both beginners and those with a more advanced understanding of astronomy.
- Q: What edition of the book is currently available? A: The currently available edition is the second edition, published on December 8, 2011.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains a total of 464 pages.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book is available in a paperback binding.
- Q: Are there any reviews or endorsements for this book? A: Yes, the book has been praised as a 'standard reference on Greek astronomy and the Copernican revolution' by 'Sky and Telescope' and is recognized as a 'classical book in the field of the history of astronomy' by 'Philosophy and Science'.
- Q: What is the condition of the book being sold? A: The book is in new condition.
- Q: When was this book first published? A: The book was first published on November 10, 2011.