A concise dictionary of astronomy /

Contains approximately 2,500 entries covering all areas of astronomy and including selected terminology from physics and space science. The typical entry is between 50 and 200 words, though some reach 500. Besides concepts, such categories as place names, equipment, organizations, and abbreviations are included. (There are no biographical entries.) Black-and-white charts and illustrations accompany several dozen definitions. The language stays clear of difficult technical vocabulary and should be accessible to any undergraduate. Cross-references within the definitions successfully provide a rich latticework from which to explore related concepts. A very brief selected bibliography covers astronomical nomenclature, general astronomy, celestial mechanics, the sun and solar system, stars and galaxies, cosmology, and observing techniques. Tables provide the Greek alphabet; units, constants and conversion factors; star, constellation and planetary ring lists; and planetary and natural satellite physical data. Reasonably priced, this dictionary performs well in comparison to other recent publications in the same price category. Though the Cambridge Air and Space Dictionary (CH, Nov'90) encompasses more disciplines, the Concise Dictionary... has about 2,000 more entries on astronomy. For libraries with the second edition of The Facts on File Dictionary of Astronomy (CH, Jul'86), Mitton's Concise Dictionary of Astronomy is a useful supplement containing many items not included in the Facts on File tool. Recommended for academic and public libraries. R. Carande; San Diego State University