The Old Moon and the New by Val A. Firsoff

A fascinating look at the Moon during a pivotal era in space exploration! The Old Moon and the New by Val A. Firsoff explores pre-and post-Apollo theories about the Moon’s origin, surface, and geological mysteries. Published in 1970, this book captures the transition from speculation to direct observation, offering insight into how lunar science evolved. This first U.S. edition hardcover includes over 20 plates of photographs and numerous text figures and drawings, illustrating key concepts and discoveries. The book is in good condition, with its original dust jacket intact. A must-have for collectors of vintage astronomy books, space history enthusiasts, or those interested in how our understanding of the Moon has evolved over time.

The author Valdemar Axel Firsoff (1910–1981) was a Swedish-born British amateur astronomer, geologist, and writer, known for his contributions to lunar and planetary science. Born on October 29, 1910, in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine, he later moved to the United Kingdom, where he pursued a diverse range of interests. Firsoff held a Master of Arts degree in languages and worked as a Swedish translator and at the United Kingdom Patent Office. He was also an avid mountaineer and skier, serving as a ski instructor for the British Olympic Ski Team in the 1950s. His passion for science, particularly geology and astronomy, led him to publish numerous books on the Moon and inner planets. Notable works include “Strange World of the Moon” (1959), “Moon Atlas” (1961), and “Exploring the Planets” (1964). In “The Old Moon and the New” Firsoff explores the prevailing theories about the Moon’s origin and characteristics during a transformative period in lunar science.

-Hardcover

-Used

-First U.S. Edition 1970 (Copyright 1969)