Bad Astronomy: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing "Hoax". . - Books: a selection of new and notable books of scientific interest - book review

Science News, April 6, 2002

BAD ASTRONOMY: Misconceptions and Misuses Revealed, from Astrology to the Moon Landing "Hoax"

PHILIP PLAIT

At the moment of the vernal equinox, it is possible to stand an egg on end and have it balance perfectly. By Plait's estimation, about half the U.S. population has either tried this or heard this misinformation. He sets the record straight on this matter and scores of other such misconceptions about Earth and sky, such as that stars can be seen in the daytime from the bottom of a well. Moreover, Plait's examination of faulty astronomy allows him to explain why astrology doesn't work, how small meteorites turn cold by the time they hit the ground, and what ideas are behind our understanding of the Big Bang. Wiley, 2002, 277 p., b&w photos/illus., paperback, $15.95.