Looking for a book on the effects of orbits on celestial observations

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on finding suitable books for college students studying the effects of orbits on celestial observations. Key recommendations include "Books in Astronomy" available on Project Gutenberg and the introductory astronomy textbook provided by the American Astronomical Society (AAS). Specific topics of interest highlighted are the position of the sun, lunar phases, retrograde planetary motion, seasons, constellation movement, and tidal coupling/locking. The user ultimately decided to order a used copy of "Astronomy" by Robert Horace Baker based on the suggestions received.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic astronomy concepts
  • Familiarity with celestial mechanics
  • Knowledge of lunar phases and their significance
  • Awareness of retrograde motion in planetary orbits
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Books in Astronomy" on Project Gutenberg
  • Read the free introductory astronomy textbook from the American Astronomical Society
  • Investigate the effects of tidal coupling and locking in celestial bodies
  • Study the seasonal variations caused by Earth's axial tilt
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for college students in physics, educators seeking resources for teaching astronomy, and anyone interested in understanding the impact of orbits on celestial phenomena.

Frabjous
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I am interested in finding a book on effects of orbits that a college sophomore/junior in physics would appreciate. The kinds of specific topics I am interested in include:
1) position of the sun in the sky
2) lunar phases
3) retrograde planetary motion
4) the seasons
5) constellation movement
6) tidal coupling/locking
 
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You may find some classic books of your taste at "Books in Astronomy" in Project Gutenberg, free, though I am not good at astronomy.
 
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Kutner and Karttunen are astronomy books for physics majors
 
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I ended up ordering a used copy of Astronomy by Baker. Thanks for all of the suggestions.
 
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