The book outlines astronomy's development from ancient times to the author's present, presenting the growth of observational techniques and theoretical frameworks while minimizing mathematical detail. It traces successive models for planetary motion, including the rise and fall of epicycles and the adoption of gravitational mechanics, discusses methods of observation and selective observational results, and includes concise biographical sketches of major contributors. The author purposely omits detailed treatments of certain early Oriental traditions and of instruments, and emphasizes how obsolete theories illuminate the scientific process of hypothesis, testing, and revision.