Meteoric astronomy: A treatise on shooting-stars, fire-balls, and aerolites

Daniel Kirkwood

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'Meteoric Astronomy: A Treatise on Shooting-Stars, Fire-Balls, and Aerolites,' Daniel Kirkwood presents a pivotal scientific examination of celestial phenomena that captivate both the scientific community and the public's imagination. Kirkwood's work is characterized by its meticulous detail, systemic organization, and clear, accessible language—a hallmark of the era's emerging scientific literature. Within its pages, readers will find a robust analysis of meteors, meteorites, and atmospheric events that were challenging scientific understandings of the heavens at the time of its original publication. Rooted in the 19th-century advancements in astronomy and physics, Kirkwood's treatise is an exemplar of early systematic attempts to comprehend extraterrestrial bodies and their interactions with Earth. A prolific American astronomer and mathematician, Daniel Kirkwood's contributions to the field were profound, earning him the moniker 'the American Kepler.' Inspired by the burgeoning collective knowledge of the cosmos and equipped with his exacting skills in celestial mechanics, Kirkwood ventured to elucidate the origins and nature of meteoric phenomena. His observations and theories would later influence generations of astronomers. Kirkwood's academic journey, which led him to this comprehensive work on meteoric astronomy, was fueled by a deep-seated curiosity about the universe and a desire to impart clarity to the complexities of these aerial spectacles. 'Meteoric Astronomy' remains an insightful resource for anyone intrigued by the history of astronomy or those seeking to understand the scientific context of the 19th century's astronomical research. This treatise is not just a reflection of the historical knowledge of its time but also a testament to the enduring passion for celestial discovery. Students of astronomy, history of science enthusiasts, and amateur stargazers will all find Kirkwood's meticulous work to be a valuable addition to their collections, as well as an inspiration for ongoing exploration into the great vastness of space.

About the author

Daniel Kirkwood (1814–1895) was an esteemed American astronomer, best known for his significant contributions to the understanding of celestial mechanics and asteroid orbits. Born in Harford County, Maryland, Kirkwood pursued his higher education at York County Academy in York, Pennsylvania, and later became a mathematics instructor and an avid researcher in astronomy. He often referred to as 'the American Kepler,' Kirkwood's legacy in astronomy endures through the Kirkwood gaps—a term coined for the asteroid belt's regions devoid of objects, which he discovered in 1866 and are pivotal to asteroid dynamics. One of his seminal literary contributions includes 'Meteoric astronomy: A treatise on shooting-stars, fire-balls, and aerolites' (1867), wherein he offered comprehensive insights into the phenomena of meteors and their interaction with Earth's atmosphere. This work illuminated the scientific knowledge of celestial meteoroids and their physical characteristics, showcasing his analytical prowess and propensity for meticulous observation. Throughout his scholarly life, Kirkwood embraced the role of an educator, sharing his bounty of knowledge with colleagues and students alike. His literary style often combined rigorous empirical investigation with accessible explanations, thus bridging the gap between scholarly discourse and public understanding. Kirkwood's contributions to astronomy remain of scholarly significance, with his works still referenced in discussions pertaining to astral mechanics and meteoritic phenomena.