ISBN: 9780674011472

Every night, astronomers use a new generation of giant telescopes at observatories around the world to study phenomena at the forefront of science. By focusing on the history of the Gemin… More...

Every night, astronomers use a new generation of giant telescopes at observatories around the world to study phenomena at the forefront of science. By focusing on the history of the Gemini Observatory--twin 8-meter telescopes located on mountain peaks in Hawaii and Chile--"Giant Telescopes" tells the story behind the planning and construction of modern scientific tools, offering a detailed view of the technological and political transformation of astronomy in the postwar era. Drawing on interviews with participants and archival documents, W. Patrick McCray describes the ambitions and machinations of prominent astronomers, engineers, funding patrons, and politicians in their effort to construct a modern facility for cutting-edge science--and to establish a model for international cooperation in the coming era of "megascience." His account details the technological, institutional, cultural, and financial challenges that scientists faced while planning and building a new generation of giant telescopes. Besides exploring how and why scientists embraced the promise and potential of new technologies, he considers how these new tools affected what it means to be an astronomer. McCray's book should interest anyone who desires a deeper understanding of the science, technology, and politics behind finding our place in the universe. Media > Book, [PU: Harvard University Press]<

ISBN: 9780674011472

Harvard University Press. Hardcover. GOOD. Spine creases, wear to binding and pages from reading. May contain limited notes, underlining or highlighting that does affect the text. Possi… More...

Harvard University Press. Hardcover. GOOD. Spine creases, wear to binding and pages from reading. May contain limited notes, underlining or highlighting that does affect the text. Possible ex library copy, thatll have the markings and stickers associated from the library. Accessories such as CD, codes, toys, may not be included., Harvard University Press<

2004, ISBN: 9780674011472

Silver Burdett Pr. Used - Good. Former Library book. Shows some signs of wear, and may have some markings on the inside., Silver Burdett Pr, Harvard University Press, 2004-03-01. Hardc… More...

Silver Burdett Pr. Used - Good. Former Library book. Shows some signs of wear, and may have some markings on the inside., Silver Burdett Pr, Harvard University Press, 2004-03-01. Hardcover. Good., Harvard University Press, 2004-03-01<