Cosmic Radio Waves by Iosif S. Shklovsky, first published in 1960, is a foundational text in radio astronomy that offers a comprehensive exploration of cosmic radio emissions. Translated into English by Richard B. Rodman and Carlos M. Varsavsky, the book spans 444 pages and delves into the mechanisms and sources of radio waves in the universe. 

Shklovsky begins by examining the fundamental physics of radio wave generation, distinguishing between thermal emissions from hot celestial bodies and nonthermal processes such as synchrotron radiation. He provides detailed analyses of various cosmic sources, including the Sun, the Milky Way, supernova remnants, and active galactic nuclei, elucidating how these phenomena contribute to the radio landscape of the cosmos.

A notable feature of the book is Shklovsky's innovative approach to classifying extragalactic radio sources. He introduces an analog to the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram, plotting radio luminosity against physical size to propose evolutionary tracks for radio galaxies. This framework laid the groundwork for subsequent studies on the life cycles of galaxies and their radio emissions. 

Beyond its scientific content, Cosmic Radio Waves reflects Shklovsky's broader interests in astrophysics and his contributions to understanding phenomena such as the solar corona and cosmic rays. His work has had a lasting impact on the field, influencing both theoretical models and observational strategies in radio astronomy.

For those interested in the historical development of radio astronomy and the early efforts to decode the universe's radio signals, Shklovsky's Cosmic Radio Waves remains an essential and insightful resource.

Chapter list for Cosmic Radio Waves by I. S. Shklovsky:

1. Frontmatter

2. Preface

3. Contents

4. Chapter I: Receivers and Antennas in Radio Astronomy

5. Chapter II: Cosmic Radio Waves: Basic Observational Results

6. Chapter III: The Nature of Galactic Radio Waves

7. Chapter IV: Monochromatic Galactic Radio Waves

8. Chapter V: Radio Astronomy and the Origin of Cosmic Rays

9. Chapter VI: Extragalactic Radio Waves

10. Appendix

11. References

12. Index

This structure reflects Shklovsky’s comprehensive approach to radio astronomy, beginning with the technical aspects of radio equipment and progressing through observational findings and theoretical interpretations of both galactic and extragalactic radio emissions.