Download or read book The Cambridge Guide to the Solar System written by Kenneth R. Lang and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 2003-09-25 with total page 480 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Cambridge Guide to the Solar System provides a comprehensive and up-to-date description of the planets and their moons. Writing at an introductory level appropriate for high school and undergraduate students, Professor Lang leads the reader on a fascinating journey of exploration to the worlds beyond our home planet Earth. The book begins with a short introduction to the history of planetary observation and discovery. The major planets and their moons are then introduced by presenting common properties, processes, and themes. This is followed by chapters which focus on individual planets and other solar system objects, including a comprehensive treatment of the various space missions: from the Apollo missions to the Moon, to recent missions to Jupiter and Mars. Filled with vital facts and information, and lavishly illustrated in colour throughout, this book will also appeal to professionals as well as general readers with an interest in planetary science.