Orbiting at the edge of the outer Solar System, Pluto is an intriguing object in astronomy. Since the fascinating events surrounding its discovery, it has helped increase our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Solar System, and raised questions about the nature and benefits of scientific classification. This is a timely and exciting account of Pluto and its satellites. The author uses Pluto as a case study to discuss discovery in astronomy, how remote astronomical bodies are investigated, and the role of classification in science by discussing Pluto's recent classification as a...

Changes in the lives of seven small groups of people in the 1970s are encapsulated in seven contrasting stories, involving rape, attempted suicide, exorcism, revenge, kidnapping, punishment, and capture of a NAZI. Essential background for the stories, is provided by the railway line from Victoria, that snakes through the London suburbs, stopping at seven stations beyond Clapham Junction, to end at Rudgwick Green in the North Downs. The author is an Emeritus Professor of Astronomy, retired from The Open University. Additionally, in his own name he has published five books on various areas of...