The Reminiscences of an Astronomer By: Simon Newcomb (1835-1909)
In "The Reminiscences of an Astronomer," Simon Newcomb offers readers a captivating glimpse into the world of astronomy through his memoir-like narrative. With his wealth of knowledge, Newcomb takes us on an enlightening journey spanning decades, where he expertly weaves together scientific discoveries, personal anecdotes, and philosophical musings. The strength of Newcomb's book lies in its ability to make complex astronomical concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Through his eloquent prose, he demystifies the mysteries of our universe, making it feel like an intimate conversation rather than a dry academic lecture. From the intricacies of celestial mechanics to the basics of astronomy, each topic is thoughtfully explained and effortlessly comprehensible. One of the highlights of Newcomb's Reminiscences is his engaging storytelling. While Newcomb could have easily relied solely on scientific facts and theories, he instead chooses to supplement these with vibrant accounts of his experiences as an astronomer. Whether it's his observations during the solar eclipse or his interactions with eminent scientists of his time, he vividly brings his journeys to life, adding a layer of personal connection to the subject matter. Beyond the scientific realm, Newcomb delves into broader themes that will resonate with readers. Throughout the book, he grapples with questions of life's purpose, the cosmos' infinite nature, and humanity's place in the grand scheme of things. These musings offer a profound perspective on the wonders of our universe, inviting readers to contemplate their own existence and ponder the deeper mysteries that lie beyond our Earthly experiences. While Newcomb's book is undoubtedly rich in substance, some readers may find certain parts overly technical or dense. Although the author acknowledges that not all readers may possess a scientific background, some passages might still require additional effort to fully grasp. However, for those willing to invest some time and energy, the rewards of knowledge and enlightenment more than compensate for these occasional challenges. In conclusion, "The Reminiscences of an Astronomer" is an awe-inspiring journey through the world of astronomy, skillfully penned by Simon Newcomb. With a combination of scientific expertise, captivating storytelling, and philosophical exploration, Newcomb's memoir-like account will captivate and provoke readers with its depth and breadth of knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, this book will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of our vast universe. First Page: ASTRONOMER E text prepared by Ferdinand van Aartsen THE REMINISCENCES OF AN ASTRONOMER by SIMON NEWCOMB 1903 PREFACE The earlier chapters of this collection are so much in the nature of an autobiography that the author has long shrunk from the idea of allowing them to see the light during his lifetime. His repugnance has been overcome by very warm expressions on the subject uttered by valued friends to whom they were shown, and by a desire that some at least who knew him in youth should be able to read what he has written. The author trusts that neither critic nor reader will object because he has, in some cases, strayed outside the limits of his purely personal experience, in order to give a more complete view of a situation, or to bring out matters that might be of historic interest. If some of the chapters are scrappy, it is because he has tried to collect those experiences which have afforded him most food for thought, have been most influential in shaping his views, or are recalled with most pleasure. CONTENTS I THE WORLD OF COLD AND DARKNESS Ancestry. Squire Thomas Prince. Parentage. Early Education. Books read. II DR. FOSHAY A Long Journey on Foot. A Wonderful Doctor. The Botanic System of Medicine. Phrenology... Continue reading book >>

The Reminiscences of an Astronomer By: Simon Newcomb (1835-1909)

In "The Reminiscences of an Astronomer," Simon Newcomb offers readers a captivating glimpse into the world of astronomy through his memoir-like narrative. With his wealth of knowledge, Newcomb takes us on an enlightening journey spanning decades, where he expertly weaves together scientific discoveries, personal anecdotes, and philosophical musings.

The strength of Newcomb's book lies in its ability to make complex astronomical concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Through his eloquent prose, he demystifies the mysteries of our universe, making it feel like an intimate conversation rather than a dry academic lecture. From the intricacies of celestial mechanics to the basics of astronomy, each topic is thoughtfully explained and effortlessly comprehensible.

One of the highlights of Newcomb's Reminiscences is his engaging storytelling. While Newcomb could have easily relied solely on scientific facts and theories, he instead chooses to supplement these with vibrant accounts of his experiences as an astronomer. Whether it's his observations during the solar eclipse or his interactions with eminent scientists of his time, he vividly brings his journeys to life, adding a layer of personal connection to the subject matter.

Beyond the scientific realm, Newcomb delves into broader themes that will resonate with readers. Throughout the book, he grapples with questions of life's purpose, the cosmos' infinite nature, and humanity's place in the grand scheme of things. These musings offer a profound perspective on the wonders of our universe, inviting readers to contemplate their own existence and ponder the deeper mysteries that lie beyond our Earthly experiences.

While Newcomb's book is undoubtedly rich in substance, some readers may find certain parts overly technical or dense. Although the author acknowledges that not all readers may possess a scientific background, some passages might still require additional effort to fully grasp. However, for those willing to invest some time and energy, the rewards of knowledge and enlightenment more than compensate for these occasional challenges.

In conclusion, "The Reminiscences of an Astronomer" is an awe-inspiring journey through the world of astronomy, skillfully penned by Simon Newcomb. With a combination of scientific expertise, captivating storytelling, and philosophical exploration, Newcomb's memoir-like account will captivate and provoke readers with its depth and breadth of knowledge. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, this book will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of our vast universe.

First Page:

ASTRONOMER

E text prepared by Ferdinand van Aartsen

THE REMINISCENCES OF AN ASTRONOMER

SIMON NEWCOMB

1903

PREFACE

The earlier chapters of this collection are so much in the nature of an autobiography that the author has long shrunk from the idea of allowing them to see the light during his lifetime. His repugnance has been overcome by very warm expressions on the subject uttered by valued friends to whom they were shown, and by a desire that some at least who knew him in youth should be able to read what he has written.

The author trusts that neither critic nor reader will object because he has, in some cases, strayed outside the limits of his purely personal experience, in order to give a more complete view of a situation, or to bring out matters that might be of historic interest. If some of the chapters are scrappy, it is because he has tried to collect those experiences which have afforded him most food for thought, have been most influential in shaping his views, or are recalled with most pleasure.

CONTENTS

I THE WORLD OF COLD AND DARKNESS Ancestry. Squire Thomas Prince. Parentage. Early Education. Books read.

II DR. FOSHAY A Long Journey on Foot. A Wonderful Doctor. The Botanic System of Medicine. Phrenology... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Biography
Science

eBook links
Wikipedia – Simon Newcomb
Wikipedia – The Reminiscences of an Astronomer

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac