The Local Group is a small cluster of galaxies that includes the Milky Way. At least half of all galaxies in the Universe are thought to belong to similar groups. This authoritative volume provides a comprehensive synthesis of what is known about the Local Group. It begins with a summary of each member galaxy, as well as those galaxies previously regarded as possible members. The book examines the mass, stability and evolution of the Local Group as a whole and includes many important previously unpublished results and conclusions. With clarity, Professor van den Bergh provides a masterful summary of all that is known about the galaxies of the Local Group and their evolution, and expertly places this knowledge in the wider context of on-going studies of galaxy formation and evolution, the cosmic distance scale, and the conditions in the early Universe.

‘… a classic book required by every astronomer, and at the same time may be enjoyed by other scientists at all levels.’

Source: Irish Astronomical Journal

‘With characteristic clarity, Professor van den Bergh provides in this book a masterful summary of all that is known about the galaxies of the Local Group and their evolution …’

Source: Europe & Astronomy

‘Sidney van den Bergh’s The Galaxies of the Local Group gives one insight into the magnitude of the problem by describing in some detail the 35-odd galaxies that are our nearest neighbours … all chapters are packed with invaluable information on the morphology, photometry, kinematics and stellar content of each object. The text is accompanied by nice photographs and useful tables. Any good astronomy library should hold this book, and many research astronomers would benefit from returning to it again and again.’

James Binney Source: Astronomy & Geophysics