The Solar System

by William Sheehan, Clifford J. Cunningham

Overview

An inviting expedition across our galactic neighborhood, from Mercury to the Sun’s furthest satellites, complete with the latest discoveries.
 
The Space Age probes to the Moon, Venus, and Mars ushered in a golden age of planetary science, transforming our understanding of the solar system from a distant mystery into many, vividly realized worlds. This book provides an accessible survey of the solar system, covering each of the planets as well as the major asteroids and bodies just outside the solar system. Drawing on interviews with leading scientists, the book offers an engaging overview of the latest discoveries for amateur astronomers, making it an essential guide for anyone interested in our celestial neighborhood.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781836390640
Publisher:	Reaktion Books, Limited
Publication date:	09/23/2025
Series:	Kosmos
Pages:	248
Product dimensions:	6.73(w) x 8.66(h) x (d)

About the Author

William Sheehan is a historian of astronomy whose books include Saturn and Venus, also in Reaktion’s Kosmos series.


Clifford J. Cunningham is a research fellow at the University of Southern Queensland. His books include Asteroids, also in Reaktion’s Kosmos series.

Editorial Reviews

"Through a combination of rich and enjoyable narrative, historical observations, images and concepts, the latest findings and exceptionally well-selected illustrations, William Sheehan and Clifford J. Cunningham have painted an engaging picture of the structure and evolution of what may well be our unique slice of the cosmos. A comprehensive, up-to-date and easy-on-the-eye summary about our current understanding of the solar system, this gem of a book does not disappoint."

Klaus R. Brasch

William Sheehan and Clifford J. Cunningham brilliantly capture the essence of a multifaceted and fast-evolving field. With insights from space probes, observations with ground-based and space telescopes, as well as theoretical work, computer simulations, and exoplanet studies, The Solar System offers a vivid, engaging, and accessible survey of our current knowledge and views. A stunning tour of our cosmic neighborhood!

Paul Gabor

William Sheehan and Clifford J. Cunningham bring impressive historical and scientific acumen to this beautifully illustrated and carefully researched snapshot of our current—and rapidly changing—understanding of our nearest cosmic neighbors. The Solar System is a timely reminder for us all that everything we learn about the diverse and fascinating worlds around us can be brought to bear on the biggest problems and mysteries that we’re trying to solve right here on our home planet.

Jim Bell