There are rare books, and then there are books that contain one-of-a-kind information--and have only 310 known copies.
That latter description fits an astronomical atlas by the name of Edward Emerson Barnard's
Photographic Atlas of Selected Regions of the Milky Way (it's from the 1920s, when they were big on really long titles). It's also the book that
Northwestern Michigan College astronomy professor Jerry Dobek is re-editing and reprinting as part of his thesis work on a second doctorate.
"In working on my final dissertation for my second Ph.D, this book is the final touch," says Dobek, who plans to receive a doctorate in astrophysics from James Cooks University in Australia this year.
Dobek chose the work in part because of the rarity of the atlas, and the value of the information it contains for astronomers. It's packed with photographic plates, text, charts and data of what Dobek considers the most interesting parts of our galaxy, including the dark regions, which often are left out.
The two-volume atlas was printed in 1927, and at the time, only 700 copies were made, since the text was so highly specialized. Now, that number has dwindled to 310, and Dobek says many more people should have the chance to use the atlas.
"Most people haven't had the chance to see the book, let alone hold it," he says. "The data and information is very valuable."
In reprinting, Dobek has re-ordered the photographic plates and charts so that corresponding information can be seen together. Additional materials include a biography of Barnard, and a foreword and addendums by Dobek.
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Jerry Dobek, Northwestern Michigan College
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