Tyler Nordgren

Nordgren's book is a great addition to any library, with a look at how eclipses have been viewed throughout history, to the modern fascination (fanaticism?) with eclipses and eclipse travel. Nordgren intersperses some excellent science on what an eclipse is, how they happen, and the different types of eclipses (annular, total, and lunar) and what makes them different.

Nordgren's discussion of the history of humanity's experience with solar eclipses was simple and while he didn't go into great detail about historical events his coverage gives the reader a good understanding of how the eclipse has shaped human history. Being able to predict an eclipse has been used by many people (generally white Europeans encountering native peoples) to their advantage to either frighten people or give the explorer power over others. The book also gives a good account of how the earliest scientists began to study and understand the eclipse and this sparked these scientists to travel around the world so they could study the phenomenon.

What I found most fascinating in Sun, Moon, Earth was how unique and special the Earth/Moon system is. The moon is uniquely situated and sized to give those of us on Earth the rare opportunity to see a total eclipse of the sun. No other planet or planetoid in our solar system offers this unique perspective. And for now, until better data on exoplanets is collected, that makes us pretty unique in the galaxy as well.

Nordgren not only gives us the historical perspective and science of the eclipse, but also shares his own personal experiences with eclipses he has witness around the world. This provides a nice comparison to the historical experiences Norgren has detailed in the book. The book also includes tips and information for safely watching an eclipse and includes several photos and charts showing eclipses. The one graphic I liked was one shared from an eclipse website showing where all eclipses can be seen on the earth in the next 20 or so years.

If you have an interest in science, astronomy, or history I recommend Nordgren's book. Even if you have only a passing interest in those areas Norgren's own personal experiences that he shares with the reader make this an interesting read.… (mere)

This was such a fascinating book! Astronomer, professor, and supernerd Tyler Nordgren writes about the beauty and majesty of total solar eclipses in a way that gives me goosebumps. I loved reading about his personal experiences travelling to all corners of the Earth to witness totality during an eclipse, an experience I hope to have myself when the next solar eclipse happens on August 21st. This event is the main reason why Nordgren wrote this book when he did: this August will be the first time certain people in the US will be able to experience totality since the 70s. Nordgren offers helpful tips for viewing an eclipse (safety first, kids!), as well as a few charts that show the path of totality. I'm sure millions of people will be flocking to the best places along this path this summer.

Another thing I loved about this book was the fascinating and thorough history of eclipses, from the formation of Earth and the moon, to the ancient Aztec people, to Renaissance astronomers and astrologists; Nordgren did a great job of talking about everyone's contributions to the understanding of eclipses (and our universe), not just Western perspectives. True, at times the science went a little over my head and I did not always understand what I was reading, but despite some confusion I never got frustrated or found my attention wandering while I was reading.

This is a great book, and I learned so much from it. Most importantly, though, I was inspired.… (mere)