Encyclopedia of the Solar System
1 volume; Illustrations, charts, tables, graphs, photographs
Appendix: Planetary exploration missions, selected astronomical constants, physical and orbital properties of the sun and planets, physical and orbital properties of the satellites definition of a planet
Glossary; Index
Each of the 46 chapters in this encyclopedia deals with a different topic relating to the solar system we live in. Unlike a traditional encyclopedia where the articles are arranged in alphabetical order, this one is broken into chapters covering one subject relating to the sun and its planets.
Each planet is given at least one chapter and other astral bodies such as the Sun, Moon, meteorites, asteroids, moons of the other planets and comets get a chapter. Modern methods of observing the solar system such as x-rays, infrared technology and the use of nuclear spectroscopy to sense the chemical composition of objects are also detailed. One chapter describes the history of solar system studies and another looks at the origin of the solar system. The illustrations, charts, etc. enhance the chapters and each chapter has references at the end for further reading. Some technical knowledge is needed to understand some of the book’s chapters; however the majority of the book can be understood by any person with interest in the topic.
A side note: This encyclopedia went to press before the International Astronomical Union’s downgrade of Pluto from planet to “dwarf planet” in 2006 so it is still referred to as a planet in this book. This is not an error for people living in Illinois however, as the State Senate passed a resolution in 2009 stating that Pluto will forever be considered a planet in the state of Illinois.
The academic research center for Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois.
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