Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. Exploring the solar system; 2. Origin of the solar system; 3. The Sun; 4. Planetary magnetospheres and the interplanetary medium; 5. Cosmetary reservoirs; 6. The role of collisions; 7. Mercury; 8. Venus; 9. Planet Earth; 10. The Moon; 11. Mars; 12. Surfaces and interiors of the Terrestrial planets; 13. Atmospheres of the terrestrial planets; 14. Interiors of the giant planets; 15. Atmospheres of the giant planets; 16. Planetary rings; 17. Io Torrence; 18. Europa; 19. Ganymede and Callisto; 20. Titan; 21. Triton, Pluto and Charon; 22. Midsize icy satellites; 23. Small worlds: patterns and relationships; 24. Comets; 25. Asteroids; 26. Meteorites; 27. Life in the solar system; 28. Other planetary systems; Tables; Glossary; Biographical sketches of contributors, Index.

Promotional Information

New edition of the leading planetary science textbook packed with the latest images, data, and results from recent planetary missions.

Reviews

'This new edition of what bids to be a planetary bible … it is an essential item for those interested in the current state of Solar System science … this 4th Edition is splendidly illustrated and is a must for any space scientist or astronomer who has an interest in the study of the Solar Syatem and the many different types of objects that it contains … highly recommended.' Spaceflight

'Fascinating … a splendid and authoritative volume.' Arthur C. Clarke, Author and Lecturer

'Rich with data, information, interpretation, illustration, and inspiration … with special emphasis on the new discoveries from recent missions.' Louis A. Friedman, Executive Director of The Planetary Society

'An incredibly rich experience … filled with terrific accounts and illustrations of new discoveries.' Wesley T. Huntress, Former Associate Administrator for Space Science, NASA

'A fresh and invigorating look at our solar system.' David H. Levy, Author and Comet Hunter

'Oustanding in every respect - includes data which will not be found elsewhere in so convenient a form. A must for anyone who is even slightly interested in the members of the Sun's family.' Patrick Moore, Host BBC-TV's The Sky at Night

'This is an informative, well illustrated book and not extravagantly priced.' Alan Hamilton, Open University Geological Society Journal

'It is a fine reference book, and the fourth edition has been further improved by the addition of much reference data at the end. The New Solar System is richly illustrated … Recommended.' Richard McKim, Journal of the British Astronomical Association