The Ways of the Planets

The Ways of the Planets by Martha Evans Martin offers a comprehensive exploration of the planets within our solar system focusing on their characteristics movements and their intrinsic connection to Earth. The text delves into the fundamental nature of planets as opaque bodies that reflect sunlight distinguishing them from stars. It explains the classification of planets into major and minor categories with a focus on the seven major planets including the Earth. The book discusses the historical context of planetary observation noting that five planets have been known since ancient times while Uranus and Neptune were discovered with the advent of telescopic technology. Martin elaborates on the planets' two primary motions: rotation on their axes which determines the length of their days and nights and revolution around the sun which defines their year. The text also addresses the origin of the planets presenting the spiral nebula theory as a plausible explanation for their formation. This theory suggests that the solar system evolved from a rotating spiral nebula with planets forming from condensed spots within this nebula. The book emphasizes the planets' familial relationship with Earth highlighting their shared origin and the gravitational ties that bind them within the solar system. Through this exploration Martin aims to provide readers with a practical understanding of the planets enabling them to recognize and appreciate these celestial bodies in the night sky.