Background
Smith, Robert Connon was born on September 15, 1941 in Carlisle, England. Son of James Walter Dickson and Christian Brown (Connon) Smith.
(Combining a critical account of observational methods (te...)
Combining a critical account of observational methods (telescopes and instrumentation) with a lucid description of the Universe, including stars, galaxies and cosmology, Smith provides a comprehensive introduction to the whole of modern astrophysics beyond the solar system. The first half describes the techniques used by astronomers to observe the Universe: optical telescopes and instruments are discussed in detail, but observations at all wavelengths are covered, from radio to gamma-rays. After a short interlude describing the appearance of the sky at all wavelengths, the role of positional astronomy is highlighted. In the second half, a clear description is given of the contents of the Universe, including accounts of stellar evolution and cosmological models. Fully illustrated throughout, with exercises given in each chapter, this textbook provides a thorough introduction to astrophysics for all physics undergraduates, and a valuable background for physics graduates turning to research in astronomy.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0521278341/?tag=2022091-20
Smith, Robert Connon was born on September 15, 1941 in Carlisle, England. Son of James Walter Dickson and Christian Brown (Connon) Smith.
Bachelor of Science, University Glasgow, Scotland, 1963; Doctor of Philosophy, University Glasgow, Scotland, 1968.
Assistant, University Glasgow, 1966-1968; research fellow, University Sussex, Brighton, 1968-1972; lecturer, University Sussex, Brighton, 1972-1990; senior lecturer, University Sussex, Brighton, 1990-1996; reader, University Sussex, Brighton, since 1996; chairman physics and astronomy, University Sussex, Brighton, since 1996. Member various committees of science and engineering research county, 1987-1993.
(Combining a critical account of observational methods (te...)
Fellow Royal Astronomical Society (council member 1976-1979, 87-90, 2002-2006, chair membership committee 1999—2006).
Married Eleanor Mary Graham, September 12, 1966. Children: Rachel Alison, Deborah Jane, Rebecca Mary.