Radio Astronomy (1961) by J.H. Piddington is a concise and accessible introduction to the field of radio astronomy, aimed at both scientists from other disciplines and general readers with an interest in astronomy. Spanning 128 pages, the book offers a comprehensive overview of the principles, techniques, and discoveries in radio astronomy up to the early 1960s.

Chapter List:

1. Introduction
2. The Techniques Of Radio Astronomy
3. The Generation and Propagation Of Radio Waves
4. The Continuous-Spectrum Cosmic Radiation
5. Hydrogen Line Emission
6. Radio Waves From The Sun
7. Radio Waves From The Moon, The Planets, Rockets and Satellites
8. Radar Astronomy

Overview and Objectives

In the preface, Piddington states his goal: to provide a complete yet not overly detailed account of radio astronomy that minimizes complex mathematics and simplifies the description of physical principles. This approach makes the book suitable for readers with limited scientific training while still informative for professionals seeking an introduction to the subject.

Content Highlights

The book covers a range of topics, including:

• Fundamentals of Radio Astronomy: An introduction to the basic concepts, such as radio waves, the electromagnetic spectrum, and the differences between radio and optical astronomy.

• Instrumentation and Techniques: Descriptions of the equipment used in radio astronomy, including antennas, receivers, and radiometers, as well as observational methods.

• Solar and Lunar Observations: Summaries of studies on solar radio emissions and the thermal radiation from the Moon, including insights into the Moon's surface properties.

• Galactic and Extragalactic Sources: Discussions on various radio sources within and beyond our galaxy, such as supernova remnants and active galactic nuclei.

• Theoretical Considerations: Explorations of the physical processes responsible for radio emissions, including thermal radiation and synchrotron radiation.

Significance

Piddington's work is notable for its clarity and breadth, providing readers with a solid foundation in radio astronomy. His emphasis on minimizing complex mathematics allows for a broader audience to engage with the material, making it a valuable resource for both students and enthusiasts.

For those interested in the historical context and development of radio astronomy, Radio Astronomy by J.H. Piddington offers an insightful snapshot of the field during a formative period.