The Military Uses of Astronomy

Abstract

THE main impression created by reading Major Moles-worth's handbook is that the task undertaken is rather a difficult one. Its object is to explain the fundamental principles of astronomy, with practical application to the simple problems which present themselves to the soldier without requiring the use of instruments. The knowledge demanded is modest enough, but to convey it in an accurate and attractive form is not easy. With the necessary deductions for full-page diagrams and so forth, this book occupies less than eighty-five pages, and, partly from its brevity, the treatment of the subject appears rather unsatisfactory. The needful familiarity with actual problems can only be gained by assiduous practice, and it seems doubtful whether Major Moles-worth's little work will provide the stimulus to bring out the necessary effort.

The Military Uses of Astronomy.

By Major F. C. Molesworth. Pp. xii + 112 + 2 plates. (London: Longmans, Green and Co., 1924.) 3s. 6d. net.