- Fully illustrated with original artwork and images from the latest observations and snapshots from computer simulations
- Avoids mathematics in favour of rigorous explanations of the major concepts
- Thoroughly updated edition which includes the latest discoveries and considers prospects for the future
Richly illustrated with the images from observatories on the ground and in space, and computer simulations, this book shows how black holes were discovered, and discusses what we've learned about their nature and their role in cosmic evolution.
This thoroughly updated third edition covers new discoveries made in the past decade, including the discovery of gravitational waves from merging black holes and neutron stars, the first close-up images of the region near a black hole event horizon, and observations of debris from stars torn apart when they ventured too close to a supermassive black hole.
Avoiding mathematics, the authors blend theoretical arguments with observational results to demonstrate how both have contributed to the subject. Clear, explanatory illustrations and photographs reveal the strange and amazing workings of our universe. The engaging style makes this book suitable for introductory undergraduate courses, amateur astronomers, and all readers interested in astronomy and physics.
The author Martin Rees is the UK's Astronomer Royal, a fellow (and former Master) of Trinity College, and was President of the Royal Society from 2005 to 2010.
The author Mitchell Begelman is Professor of Distinction in Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences and a fellow of JILA, at the University of Colorado–Boulder.
