Pluto: Sentinel of the Outer Solar System

by Barrie W. Jones

Orbiting at the edge of the outer Solar System, Pluto is an intriguing object in astronomy. Since the fascinating events surrounding its discovery, it has helped increase our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Solar System, and raised questions about the nature and benefits of scientific classification. This is a timely and exciting account of Pluto and its satellites. The author uses Pluto as a case study to discuss discovery in astronomy, how remote astronomical bodies are investigated, and the role of classification in science by discussing Pluto's recent classification as a dwarf planet. Besides Pluto, the book also explores the rich assortment of bodies that constitute the Edgeworth-Kuiper Belt, of which Pluto is the innermost member. Richly illustrated, this text is written for general readers, amateur astronomers and students alike. Boxed text provides more advanced information especially for readers who wish to delve deeper into the subject.

Genres: Astronomy

244 pages, Hardcover

First published August 12, 2010

Reviews

[David Peterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one kinda disappointed me! I feel a little undersold as far as target audience, and for someone whose strength is in planetary systems, I felt pretty let down by a lot of the analysis (or lack thereof). Still a neat read, and Pluto is cool as fuck, but yeah. Underwhelming.

[Bristol Public Library System · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re mildly interested in the night sky, outer space, or the Solar System, Pluto: Sentinel of the Outer Solar System by Barrie W. Jones is worth reading. It tells the story of the discovery of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto while explaining some basic principles of astronomy. What I enjoyed most about this book was the way in which it was written. The author’s explanation of astronomical concepts compliments the overall story of discovery. Better still are the sections of more complicated concepts; these are optional and not required to understand the rest of the story.

Overall I recommend this short non-fiction book to anyone who has a fleeting interest in astronomy, the Solar System, or scientific discovery.

[Tracy Black · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some chapters were very interesting, especially those that dealt with the details of Pluto, Charon, and the Kuiper Belt. There were serious issues with target audience. I think it was either 8th graders or graduate students, depending on which chapter I was in. The final chapter was disappointing. It's titled "Pluto: gateway to beyond". I expected Jones to be at least a little speculative considering his area of expertise is "habitability of planetary systems". Nope. I got the impression that he was tired of writing at that point.

Still, a worthy read. Just stick with the middle chapters. Unless you don't know what a light year is. Then just read chapter one and avoid the rest.

[Lance · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very basic thoughts on Pluto. Well organized and had a lot of information on the KBO's, but after reading other books on Pluto it seemed generic and simplistic. Not a bad book, but more of an introductory book for the general public.