Understanding the Universe: An Introduction to Astronomy, 2nd Edition is a nontechnical description of where that picture stands today. In 96 richly illustrated half-hour lectures, you survey the main concepts, methods, and discoveries in astronom from the constellations drawn by the ancients, to the latest reports from planetary probes in our Solar System, to the most recent images offered by telescopes probing the farthest frontiers of space and time. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

In a three-part, 96-lecture program on astronomy, Alex Filippenko (Univ. of California, Berkeley) employs photographs, charts, and animations, as well as live demonstrations with simple props, to discuss "Observing the Heavens," "Contents of the Universe," and "Cosmology: The Universe as a Whole." Each lecture covers a specific, narrowly defined topic and is meant to build on what came before, although the lectures are self-contained enough so that one can profitably skip around. The course begins with the fundamentals-eclipses, seasons, rainbows, etc.-and continues with descriptions and analyses of individual astronomical objects, phenomena, and principles. Filippenko knows his subject and knows how to present it in an interesting fashion. Clear illustrations, simple animations, and down-to-earth (pun intended) demos help to make complicated concepts clear. Some math is included, but it is not critical to following along. The eight volumes of course transcripts (an $85 extra) are well worth the money. They contain glossaries, outlines, and an extensive bibliography. Highly recommended for individuals or as the basis for a college-level distance education (college-by-cassette) introduction to astronomy.-Jay Schwartz, Suffolk Cty. Community Coll. Lib., Riverhead, NY Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information. From: Reed Elsevier Inc. Copyright Reed Business Information