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Reflector Book Review:
Binary Stars: A Pictorial
Atlas
Category: Science of Astronomy
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Binary Stars: A Pictorial Atlas
by D. Terrell, J. D. Mukherjee and R.E. Wilson
Krieger Publishing Co., 1992
ISBN 0-89464-041-0
$57.50, 383 8-1/2x11 pgs. hardbound
When I first heard of this book I
was intrigued. A primary interest of mine is double
star observing. I was disappointed to find that its
content was close-proximity and contact binaries. Variable
star observers and astronomy students should find this
book particularly valuable. Double star observers less
so.
The book illustrates through computer
generated images how complex and diversified close binary
systems can be. Over 300 such systems are displayed
through different phases of their orbital revolutions
They are shown as they would appear at a distance of
approximately one Astronomical Unit. These illustrations
are also accompanied by their appropriate light-curves
and other pertinent information.
Given for each pair are figures on
the semi-major axis of their orbits, their eccentricity,
their period, and their inclination. Other information
includes the stars mean surface temperatures, mass ratio,
systemic velocity, and a host of other facts, as known
or deduced. I found really interesting the accompanying
circle with each binary pair illustration which represents
the diameter of our Sun. This circle gives us an idea
of the scale of each system.
Twenty-eight pages of notes follow
the main body of illustrations. After this is a twelve
page Glossary, then an Index of pictured stars listed
by their constellation.
Variable star observers should find
this book fascinating, especially if the binaries they
are following are included. At last the amateur or astronomy
student can get a good idea of what those variable points
of light in the night sky really look like.
Paul R. Castle
Astronomical League Book Service
Reviewed in the May 1999 issue.
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