{"product_id":"accidental-astronomy-how-random-discoveries-shape-the-science-of-space","title":"Accidental Astronomy: How Random Discoveries Shape the Science of Space","description":"\u003cb\u003eA top astronomer reveals why his field depends on luck\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e If you learn about the scientific method, you learn that first we hypothesize about something we've experienced, and then we look for more of it. This works well enough--but what if you are interested in studying a heretofore unknown comet or supernova? That is the essential problem of the astronomer: the most important discoveries happen without notice!  \u003cbr\u003e   \u003cbr\u003e Indeed, as Chris Lintott argues in \u003ci\u003eAccidental Astronomy\u003c\/i\u003e, luck defines astronomy. Lintott explores the ways in which happenstance shapes how we investigate the sky. To catch a glimpse of a comet, asteroid, or even a sign of alien life, we must be in the right place at the right time. And if we can't be there, we must have a team of professionals and amateurs, across the globe, ready to spring into action at a moment's--or a night's--notice. For any astronomer, regardless of their experience or resources, the first step to discovery is the same: to stare at the sky and wait.  \u003cbr\u003e   \u003cbr\u003e A celebration of astronomy, stargazing, and cosmic discovery, \u003ci\u003eAccidental Astronomy\u003c\/i\u003e offers an irresistible window into how luck defines our knowledge of the skies. \r","brand":"Chris Lintott","offers":[{"title":"Hardcover","offer_id":44467366166764,"sku":"9781541605411","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0684\/1791\/3068\/files\/9781541605411.jpg?v=1708955440","url":"https:\/\/allstora.com\/products\/accidental-astronomy-how-random-discoveries-shape-the-science-of-space","provider":"Allstora","version":"1.0","type":"link"}