A good book for astrophysics&astronomy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around recommendations for books on astrophysics and astronomy, particularly for someone new to the field who is interested in research related to dark matter. The scope includes theoretical understanding, practical exercises, and examples relevant to predicting the masses and movements of celestial bodies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • A participant seeks guidance on books that cover how astronomers predict the masses, positions, and velocities of stars, galaxies, and planets, along with exercises and examples.
  • Another participant recommends "Introduction to Modern Astrophysics" by Carroll and Ostlie, stating it covers a wide range of topics in astrophysics effectively.
  • A further comment notes that Carroll and Ostlie addresses the participant's questions regarding predictions and includes content on the solar system, although there is uncertainty about its coverage of exoplanets.
  • A later reply expresses appreciation for the recommendation, indicating it seems suitable for their needs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the recommendation of Carroll and Ostlie's book, but there is some uncertainty regarding its specific content related to planets and exoplanets.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the depth of coverage in recommended books remain unverified, and the discussion does not resolve the specific content details regarding exoplanets.

plasmon
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I am a researcher and wish to learn astrophysics(research in dark matter). I have never studied astrophysics or astronomy. I am in search for a book that can guide me

(1)How do astronomers predict masses of stars, galaxies and planets, their positions and relative velocities?

(2) Also exercises and examples?

Kindly provide me names, which can guide me on this.

I am already studying a book "Fundamentals of Astronomy".
 
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Carroll and Ostlie, "Introduction to Modern Astrophysics", tries to cover basically everything in astrophysics and does a pretty darn good job of it in my opinion.
 
carroll and ostlie does your #1 and your #2

while I'm not exactly sure about planets, it does have a chunk of the book devoted to the planets of the solar system. We've never gone through it, though.

I forget if it specifically mentions exoplanets as well.
 
Thanks, looks good to me.
 

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