Includes directory, glossary and index.

How do we measure the Universe? Where is the event horizon? What is dark matter? Since the dawn of humankind, people have looked upwards at the heavens and tried to understand them. Over the centuries since, the science of astronomy has pushed back the frontiers of human knowledge in an attempt to understand the Universe and our place within it.

Written in plain English, The Astronomy Book is packed with short, pithy explanations that cut through the jargon, step-by-step diagrams that untangle knotty theories, quotes that make the astronomical discoveries memorable, and witty illustrations that enhance and play with our understanding of the stars.

Whatever your grasp of the subject, whether you're an avid student or an armchair expert, you'll find plenty to stimulate you within this book.

(From the back cover)