Mapping and Naming the Moon A History of Lunar Cartography and Nomenclature [Paperback]

Historical maps and rare photographs illustrate four centuries of mapping the Moon.With its wonderful historical maps and rare early photographs, this book is a treat for everyone interested in the Moon. Anyone who observes the Moon, perhaps through binoculars or a small telescope, will appreciate this unique account of lunar mapping and nomenclature. How did the craters get their names? Who made the first maps of the Moon, and how were they improved over time? Four centuries of progress are beautifully summarised. The excellent appendices and bibliography provide a launch pad for those who wish to learn more.With its wonderful historical maps and rare early photographs, this book is a treat for everyone interested in the Moon. Anyone who observes the Moon, perhaps through binoculars or a small telescope, will appreciate this unique account of lunar mapping and nomenclature. How did the craters get their names? Who made the first maps of the Moon, and how were they improved over time? Four centuries of progress are beautifully summarised. The excellent appendices and bibliography provide a launch pad for those who wish to learn more.Almost thirty years after the Apollo missions, Tranquillity Base , Hadley Rille , or Taurus-Littrow are names still resonant with the enormous achievements represented by the lunar landings. But how did these places get their names? Who named Copernicus crater? Where did all those names on lunar maps come from, and what stimulated their selection? Ewen Whitaker traces the origins and evolution of the present-day systems for naming lunar features such as craters, mountains, valleys and dark spots. The connections between the prehistoric and historic names, and today's gazetteer are clearly described. Beautiful lunar maps spanning four centuries of progress wonderfully illustrate the unfolding of our ability to map the Moon. Rare, early photographs add to the sense of history. Comprehensive appendices and the bibliography make this delló(