How Did We Find Out About Neptune

Grade 6-10-- Readers of this book will also "find out about" Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. Asimov first tells about the discovery of Uranus and how irregularities in its orbit showed the influence of yet another undiscovered planet. The search for Neptune is characterized by back-stabbing and credit-grabbing in which the more influential astronomers, Challis and Airy, tried to take credit for the work of two younger astronomers, Adams and Leverrier. The two chapters about the search for Neptune present a cautionary tale of missed opportunities because of casual observations and disinterest in the work of younger, less prominent men who plotted the position of Neptune, but had no telescope at their disposal with which to verify their calculations. Later chapters detail subsequent experiments and observations. Black-and-white drawings and diagrams are scattered throughout. Asimov makes the history of discovery come alive through clear writing and excellent organization. --Margaret M. Hagel, Norfolk Public Library System, VA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.