The universe contains many unusual sights and sounds most of which are either very difficult
to witness or simply go unnoticed. With the right tools time and location some of the often
talked about but seldom seen and heard gems in our skies can finally be observed. This book
introduces readers to the rare and ephemeral happenings above our heads. It offers a crash
course in astronomical history detailing the observations assumptions and inventions of
different cultures over time as they turned their studies to the stars. Using this as a
baseline to redefine truly rare occurrences Jonathan Powell then provides modern-day
astronomers at all levels with pointers for what they can witness and when. From phenomena as
old and far-off as a supernova witnessed a thousand years ago and as recent and nearby as
Sputnik's famous beeping this book covers everything that one must know to see hear and
appreciate the astronomical events happening around us.
