Astronomy/Astrophysics Book Recommendations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for astronomy and astrophysics books, specifically focusing on topics such as black holes and quasars, rather than general physics theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks recommendations for books that discuss the universe, black holes, and quasars.
  • Another participant suggests "Black Holes and Time Warps" by Kip Thorne as a suitable read.
  • A different participant recommends "The Extravagant Universe" by Robert P. Kirshner, noting its accessibility and quality, along with "Exploring Black Holes: Introduction to General Relativity" by Taylor and Wheeler, which is described as more technical and expensive.
  • A participant expresses interest in "Exploring Black Holes" but mentions concerns about its technical nature and suggests reading "Spacetime Physics" by Taylor and Wheeler first.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of the recommended books, but there is no consensus on the best approach to tackle the more technical texts.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the technicality of certain books and their prerequisites, indicating a need for clarity on the level of mathematical content involved.

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I've read a few general physics books by Hawkings, Brain Greene, etc, but am looking for more of an astronomy/astrophysics book - namely one that talks more about the universe itself; black holes, quasars, and the like (rather then general theory).

Any must read recommendations?


thanks!
 
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I would suggest Black Holes and Time Warps by Kip Thorne
 
thanks, i will def check it out.

any others?
 
I recommend The Extravagant Universe by Robert P. Kirshner. It is fairly inexpensive, but, well written and not exhaustively technical. If you are interested in a serious discussion on how science is done, this is a winner. Another good selection more specific to black hole is Exploring Black Holes: Introduction to General Relativity by Taylor and Wheeler. It is more expensive and technical, but, also well written.
 
Last edited:
Chronos said:
I recommend The Extravagant Universe by Robert P. Kirshner. It is fairly inexpensive, but, well written and not exhaustively technical. If you are interested in a serious discussion on how science is done, this is a winner. Another good selection more specific to black hole is Exploring Black Holes: Introduction to General Relativity by Taylor and Wheeler. It is more expensive and technical, but, also well written.

Thanks for the recommendations. I've had Exploring Black Holes on my radar for a while but heard it was quite technical (equations etc) and that I should read Taylor and Wheelers 'Sapcetime Physics' first?
 

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