Astrophysics Fundamentals

Foundations of Astrophysics provides a contemporary and complete introduction to astrophysics for astronomy and physics majors. This book is briefer and more accessible than other books in the market, and is the most up-to-date book available in this fast-changing field. With a logical presentation and conceptual and quantitative end-of-chapter problems, the material is easier-to-grasp for introductory astrophysics readers.

The book covers a wide range of key topics in astrophysics, starting with the early history of astronomy and the emergence of modern astronomy. It then delves into the mechanics of orbital systems, exploring the Earth-Moon system in detail. The interaction of radiation and matter is examined, as well as the astronomical detection of light, which is crucial for observational astrophysics.

The book provides an in-depth overview of the solar system, including the Sun, the planets, and the small bodies that inhabit our celestial neighborhood. It also explores the properties of stars, their atmospheric characteristics, and the processes occurring within their interiors. The interstellar medium and the formation and evolution of stars, including stellar remnants, are also covered.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to our own galaxy, the Milky Way, as well as other galaxies, including active galaxies and the large-scale structures they form, such as clusters and superclusters. The final chapters delve into the field of cosmology, covering the history of the universe and the latest theories and observations that shed light on its origins and evolution.

The book is intended for those interested in learning the basics of astrophysics, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to this dynamic field of study. The logical presentation and the inclusion of conceptual and quantitative end-of-chapter problems make the material accessible and engaging for introductory astrophysics readers.

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