This book is the first regular annual to review each year's major astronomical discoveries that is written at an accessible level for both young and older astronomy enthusiasts. Its aim (and subsequent volumes issued annually) is to provide an annual astronomy review suitable for the popular science level reader. It will be published every year in September in a format suitable for an appeal to the Christmas market. The book will cover all major astronomical news on topics beyond the Solar System and place them in the context of the longer term goals that astronomers and astrophysicists around the world are aiming for. The book will present a complete list of the major announcements, discoveries and news items from each year, with the major ones being explained in detail through selected chapters being written by invited contributors who are at the forefront in those fields. The target is to capture the excitement and vibrancy of modern astronomical research.
From the reviews:
"The most exciting discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics in a new annual. Fascinating developments in the understanding of our origins, of the early beginnings of the Universe, of how planets are formed, and how stars live out their lives and die, occur every month. ? Rarely are such details offered in one place - until now. State of the Universe 2007 fills the gap between research and everyday news." (PhysicsWeb, January, 2007)
"State of the Universe is an unconventional annual aimed at adults. Billed as a compendium of the newest discoveries in astronomy, it reveals the latest on our favourite astronomical characters - our galaxy, the Hubble Space Telescope ? among many others. Useful as a summary of the year's findings for those new to stargazing ? it is ? fascinating." (Justin Mullins, New Scientist, March, 2007)
"This is the first volume in a planned annual effort to chronicle the important news events, discoveries, and significant developments in astronomy for the previous year. ? Ratcliffe ? a well-known educator in astronomy, uses a popular style of writing to make the text interesting and approachable to laypeople. The fast pace of developments and discoveries in astronomy makes this new annual a welcome addition for most libraries. ? Libraries should make this work a continuing acquisition ? . Summing Up: Highly recommended. All levels." (J. O. Christensen, CHOICE, Vol. 44 (11), July, 2007)
