Probing the New Solar System

Exploration by space probes has revealed many fascinating details about Earth’s planetary neighbours. Today we stand on the threshold of the next phase of planetary exploration and knowledge, with several space probe missions currently underway and others being planned. Probing the New Solar System discusses the latest findings that have contributed to a changed understanding of the solar system – and how the revised definition of a planet in 2006 by the International Astronomical Union affected this understanding. Each chapter includes some historical information, ‘Did you know?’ items of particular interest to readers, and photographs of objects in the solar system showing newly discovered features of the planets, their moons and of dwarf planets.This is an up-to-date record of the many recent discoveries made about our solar system and other planetary systems using ground-based and space probe technology. It has been written for people interested in astronomy, both professional and amateur, as well as for students and educators.

Exploration by space probes has revealed many fascinating details about Earth’s planetary neighbours. Today we stand on the threshold of the next phase of planetary exploration and knowledge, with several space probe missions currently underway and others being planned. Probing the New Solar System discusses the latest findings that have contributed to a changed understanding of the solar system – and how the revised definition of a planet in 2006 by the International Astronomical Union affected this understanding. Each chapter includes some historical information, ‘Did you know?’ items of particular interest to readers, and photographs of objects in the solar system showing newly discovered features of the planets, their moons and of dwarf planets.This is an up-to-date record of the many recent discoveries made about our solar system and other planetary systems using ground-based and space probe technology. It has been written for people interested in astronomy, both professional and amateur, as well as for students and educators.