Measuring the Universe: The Cosmological Distance Ladder

Stephen Webb

May 14, 1999

Measuring the Universe: The Cosmological Distance Ladder by Stephen Webb is an brilliant and exquisite account of the history of calculating cosmic distances across the universe. Webb covers topics ranging from the intuitive ideas of the Greeks on cosmology, to the modern methods used to accurately measure the vast distances between galaxies.By meticulously tracing events, Webb conveys how scientists have worked and struggled to understand the universe. From ancient trials to modern analysis, Webb sends us on a journey of discovery as he examines the developmnt of tools used to measure the cosmos. From Hipparchus formaulating his meter of fluxion to the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, he covers not only the development of the techniques of distances measurement around us today, but also the stories and the people behind their creation- their humility, determination, and genius.Webb takes the reader on a voyage through time and space, exploring the development of theories, discoveries and expanding technologies, to find how we calculate distances in the universe. In doing so, he reveals how scientific and engineering feats have produced amazing advances, ultimately rendering the Universe a much smaller place.This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of astronomy, or in the development the powerful tools we now use to map and measure the dazzling wonders of the Universe. With its clear explanations and comprehensive coverage, this book is a sure must read for any stargazer, scientist and interested in exploring the evolution of cosmic distance measurment.