A Gentle Rain of Starlight: The Story of Astronomy on Mauna Kea

By Michael J. West

Book Overview

Author Michael J. West artfully weaves a fascinating tale of scientific discovery through breathtaking photographs and captivating commentary in A Gentle Rain of Starlight. This insightful and... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0931548993
• ISBN13: 9780931548994
• Release Date: October 2005
• Publisher: Island Heritage Pub
• Length: 108 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.8" x 0.5" x 9.5"

Customer Reviews

A Gentle Rain of Starlight - Mauna Kea Astronomy

I was first introduced to this book by one of the engineers I work with. He had found the book during one of his trips to the Big Island of Hawaii and an inspection of the observatories on the summitt of Mauna Kea. I was able to borrow the book from him for several days and quickly became thoroughly engulfed in the history of astronomy at 14,000 feet. This book became a necessary purchase for me and one which we have recommended to all the staff at our company. You see, we have a very strong connection to the telescopes on top of the mountain having designed and constructed many of the enclosures on the summit. From an insider on the top of the mountain, I find this book a must read for anyone who wishes to expand their knowledge of this special place. Extremely well written and ultimately readable.

Amazing look at astronomy...

I loved this book. I am an astronomer by hobby only and was looking for a great read, that provided background on the area under observation and the sky above. This book does a great job of bringing high level thinking down to the everyman's level and providing wonderful history and insight about the island of Mauna Kea. The photography is breath taking and the story is exceptional. A must read for any astronomy lover or even for the Mauna kea tourist.