Pioneer of Galactic Astronomy: A Biography of Jacobus C. Kapteyn

This non-technical biography of Jacobus Cornelius Kapteyn (1851-1922) presents the scientific life of the astronomer who pioneered the studies of the structure of the Milky Way Galaxy. It weaves in astronomy basics and uses modern astronomical images to show the developments of astronomical research from Kapteyns times to the present, including the study of the distribution of stars in space. Kapteyn's ideas influenced prominent astronomers worldwide, and he is known for designing the Kapteyn Universe and discovering Kapteyn's Star. His legacy includes the first application of Galactic structure and dynamics and Jan Hendrik Oort, a famous astronomer from Leiden.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 305 pages
\n Publication date: 26 January 2021
\n Publisher: Springer
\n

This comprehensive non-technical biography delves into the scientific life of Jacobus Cornelius Kapteyn (1851-1922), a renowned astronomer who made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the structure of the Milky Way Galaxy. Through the narrative, the author seamlessly weaves essential astronomical concepts into the story, accompanied by modern astronomical images that vividly depict the evolution of astronomical research from Kapteyn's era to the present.

One of the key focuses of the biography is the study of the distribution of stars in space, which has reached a remarkable pinnacle with the groundbreaking insights provided by the astrometric satellite GAIA. This satellite, currently receiving widespread public attention, has revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos by unveiling stunning new details about the distribution of stars across the vast expanse of the universe.

Kapteyn's ideas had a profound impact on prominent astronomers worldwide, and he is celebrated for his contributions to the field. Notably, he is recognized as the designer of the Kapteyn Universe, an alternative to the large system proposed by Harlow Shapley. Additionally, Kapteyn made a significant discovery when he identified Kapteyn's Star, which remains the second fastest-moving star in the sky and is now one of the closest stars to possess a planet in the habitable zone.

This captivating blend of astronomy history and popular astronomy offers a unique perspective on the life of the astronomy professor who established the first astronomical laboratory dedicated to measuring photographic plates exposed elsewhere. Kapteyn's pioneering work took astronomy beyond mere star cataloging and into the realm of measuring distances and velocities, enabling him to study the spatial distribution, systematic motions (Kapteyn's Star Streams), and the equilibrium between gravity and motion of celestial objects.

Kapteyn's legacy extends far beyond his pioneering contributions to Galactic structure and dynamics. His influence can be seen in the work of Jan Hendrik Oort, a renowned astronomer from Leiden, who was so captivated by Kapteyn's lectures as a student that he decided to pursue a career in astronomy. Oort's groundbreaking discoveries and theories in the field of extragalactic astronomy have solidified Kapteyn's place as a visionary astronomer whose ideas continue to shape our understanding of the universe.

In conclusion, this non-technical biography provides a captivating journey into the scientific life of Jacobus Cornelius Kapteyn, highlighting his groundbreaking contributions to astronomy and his profound impact on the field. Through the integration of astronomy basics, modern astronomical imagery, and a deep exploration of Kapteyn's ideas, the biography offers a valuable resource for both enthusiasts and scholars seeking to delve deeper into the wonders of the cosmos.

\n Weight: 638g\n
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783030554224\n
Edition number: 2021 ed.\n