Lehrbuch der sphrischen Astronomie

Abstract

DR. L. DE BALL'S excelslent treatise shows abundant evidence of a long and careful preparation. From the nature of the subject striking innovations are not to be expected; it is rather in the minute details of the exposition that the merit of the present work is found. In some places the mathematical treatment has been simpliflied, in others the discussion has been made more rigorous and thorough. The author's long experience as a practical astronomer has led to improvements in all parts of the subject, little in themselves, but when taken together making a notable advance. According to the introduction, the book is intended to be both a text-book for students and a work of reference; it is in the latter respect that we commend it. Spherical astronomy is a rather heterogeneous collection of but distantly related problems, and a minute treatment of isolated questions, many of which are only required in special researches and have no general interest, makes a very unsuitable course of reading for the student. But for those who are seeking specially full information on any of the subjects dealt with, this work will prove a very useful aid.

Lehrbuch der sphrischen Astronomie.

By Dr. L. de Ball. Pp. xv + 387. (Leipzig: W. Engelmann, 1912.) Price 20 marks.