Sun Moon Earth ─ The History of Solar Eclipses from Omens of Doom to Einstein and Exoplanets

An astronomer traces the natural history of solar eclipses from supernatural to scientific phenomenon, showing us a more wonderful way to look up at the sky

On August 21, 2017, more than ten million Americans will experience an awe-inspiring phenomenon: the first total eclipse of the sun in America in almost forty years. InSun Moon Earth, astronomer Tyler Nordgren illustrates how this most seemingly unnatural of natural phenomena was transformed from a fearsome omen to a tourist attraction. From the astrologers of ancient China and Babylon to the high priests of the Maya, Sun Moon Earth takes us around the world to show how different cultures interpreted these dramatic events. Greek philosophers discovered eclipses’ cause and used them to measure their world and the cosmos beyond. Victorian-era scientists mounted eclipse expeditions during the age of globe-spanning empires. And modern-day physicists continue to use eclipses to confirm Einstein’s theory of relativity.

Beautifully illustrated and lyrically written, Sun Moon Earth is the ideal guide for all eclipse watchers and star gazers alike.

Tyler Nordgren is an astronomer and Associate Professor of Physics at the University of Redlands. He has worked as an astronomer at both the U.S. Naval Observatory and Lowell Observatory. Since 2007, Nordgren has worked closely with the U.S. National Park Service.