title: The Physical Universe: An Introduction to Astronomy (Series of Books in Astronomy)
author:  Frank H. Shu 
description: "A truly astonishing book, invaluable for anyone with an interest in astronomy and surely the bargain of the year." -- <i>Physics Bulletin</i><br /><br />"Just the thing for a first year university science course." -- <i>Nature</i><br /><br />"This is a beautiful book in both concept and execution." -- <i>Sky & Telescope</i>
zlib_text: **Astronomers' Universe**
  
   **Series Editor**
  
  Martin Beech
  
   _Campion College, The University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada_
  
  The Astronomers’ Universe series attracts scientifically curious readers with
  a passion for astronomy and its related fields. In this series, you will
  venture beyond the basics to gain a deeper understanding of the cosmos—all
  from the comfort of your chair.
  
  Our books cover any and all topics related to the scientific study of the
  Universe and our place in it, exploring discoveries and theories in areas
  ranging from cosmology and astrophysics to planetary science and astrobiology.
  
  This series bridges the gap between very basic popular science books and
  higher-level textbooks, providing rigorous, yet digestible forays for the
  intrepid lay reader. It goes beyond a beginner’s level, introducing you to
  more complex concepts that will expand your knowledge of the cosmos. The books
  are written in a didactic and descriptive style, including basic mathematics
  where ne