This text describes the gravitational interactions and evolution of astronomical systems on all scales, from small groups of stars through galaxies and clusters of galaxies to the Universe itself. In a rapidly developing area of astronomy, it is the first comprehensive treatise on the subject to be published since the early 1960s. Concentrating on the basic physics, at a graduate student level, it also develops many astronomical applications in considerable detail. The book is self-contained. Most results are derived from preceding ones in a straightforward way. It is written to bring out the physical content behind the mathematical formulae, and contains a number of exercises and suggestions for research topics. Bibliographies with nearly 300 selected references provide gateways into the literature.

‘ … the author achieves a ery nice balance between mathematics, physics and astronomy as well as between the reality and simplicity of the models discussed.’

Source: Classical and Quantum Gravity

‘ … eminently readable. It is written throughout in an engaging style with a clear logical development … All this adds up to a beautifully presented account … it will be much appreciated by both practising astronomers and beginning graduate students in astronomy.’

Source: The Times Higher Education Supplement

‘ … a beautifully written text on stellar physics and on dynamics … The author has produced a work of literature, indispensible to anyone working on studies of stellar and galactic systems.’

Source: New Scientist