Exciting facts about the origin, shape and orbit of our Earth's satellite
Our moon is familiar to us – and yet it holds many secrets that we can uncover with the help of science. This non-fiction book about the moon and its movement is aimed at readers with an interest in science who want to rediscover the moon. The text also contains some formulas and calculations, but these do not exceed the physical and mathematical requirements of upper secondary school.
The book begins with the history of lunar observation, spanning from ancient times to the invention of the telescope in modern times, space flight and manned moon landings. The space probes currently orbiting the moon are also discussed. In addition, the special features of the Earth's moon within the solar system are highlighted and the conditions for life on other planets and moons are described. The influence of the moon on life on Earth is also considered.
Another focus of the book is the description of the elliptical orbit of the moon around the Earth and around the sun. This includes its various phases of illumination and its apparent 'nodding' and 'shaking' that we can see from Earth and easily understand scientifically. With the help of graphics, the moon's path across the Earth's horizon is explained and the ebb and flow of the tides as a result of the tidal forces of the moon and the sun are described. Last but not least, readers learn how to easily predict solar and lunar eclipses. Finally, the book explains why the moon moves so strangely and irregularly.
A book for young and old – for fans and enthusiasts of our moon and those who want to become fans.
The author Eckart Kuphal, born in Berlin, has a doctorate in physics. He is the author of more than a hundred scientific publications in the fields of nuclear physics and semiconductor technology. He has been involved in astronomy for over ten years and also gives lectures on the subject.
