Introduction to Comets [Paperback]

Graduate reference describing the science of comets in order of its discovery.We have now reached an exciting time in cometary research. This book describes the wealth of information known prior to the return of Halley's comet, and the new information discovered since then. The science of comets is described in order of its discovery, from tail phenomena to coma morphology through to the most recent findings from space missions. This comprehensive text is a complete and up-to-date treatment of the subject, suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students of astronomy and planetary science.We have now reached an exciting time in cometary research. This book describes the wealth of information known prior to the return of Halley's comet, and the new information discovered since then. The science of comets is described in order of its discovery, from tail phenomena to coma morphology through to the most recent findings from space missions. This comprehensive text is a complete and up-to-date treatment of the subject, suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students of astronomy and planetary science.Including the abundance of information known prior to the return of Halley's comet, as well as the new information discovered since then, the science of comets is described here by order of its discovery. From tail phenomena to coma morphology, to the most recent findings from space missions, this comprehensive text provides complete and up-to-date coverage of the subject. It will be suitable for advanced undergraduates and graduate students of astronomy and planetary science. First Edition Hb (2001): 0-521-23906-0 First Edition Pb (2002): 0-521-27218-1Preface; 1. Comets in history; 2. Discovery and dynamics of comets; 3. Observing and measuring techniques; 4. Tails; 5. Coma and related phenomena; 6. Comets and the solar wind; 7. The nucleus; 8. Asteroids; 9. Origins of comets; 10. Comets and the solar system; 11. The future of cometary research; l)