Introduction to Astronomical Photometry (Cambridge Observing Handbooks for Research Astronomers)

Reviews from the first edition: 'This book usefully fills a gap between a simple popularist approach to photometry and a full-scale research monograph, and is a perfect starting-point for more advanced levels.' Europe Astronomy

'… good practical guide to the many pitfalls involved in calibrating the instrumental colour equation, full of sensible advice in program design and error analysis.' The Observatory

'Budding's book is a particularly good introduction to the art and science of photometry … The presentation is very good throughout and I would recommend the book to any astronomer interested in photometry.' Nick James, Astronomy Now

'… a major rewrite of the first edition and includes much new material. … this new edition recognises the important role which CCDs now play in this field. … it is well written and readable and will repay careful study with a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of photometry than is offered by some other introductory texts. … a comprehensive set of bibliographical notes and a list of references … enable the reader to seek further information … and greatly extend the usefulness of the book.' Journal of the British Astronomical Association

'…well indexed …this book has considerable breadth and depth, and will repay detailed study.' The Observatory

Completely updated, this second edition gives a broad review of astronomical photometry to provide an understanding of astrophysics from a data-based perspective. It explains the underlying principles of the instruments used, and the applications and inferences derived from measurements. Each chapter has been fully revised to account for the latest developments, including the use of CCDs. Highly illustrated, this book provides an overview and historical background of the subject before reviewing the main themes within astronomical photometry. The central chapters focus on the practical design of the instruments and methodology used. The book concludes by discussing specialised topics in stellar astronomy, concentrating on the information derived from the analysis of the light curves of variable stars and close binary systems. It includes numerous bibliographic notes and a glossary of terms. It is ideal for graduate students, academic researchers and advanced amateurs interested in practical and observational astronomy.