An Approach to Astrophysics * The Cosmic Distance Scale * Dynamics and Masses of Astronomical Bodies * Random Processes * Photons and Fast Particles * Electromagnetic Processes in Space * Quantum Processes in Astrophysics * Stars * Cosmic Gas and Dust * Formation of Stars and Planetary Systems * The Universe We Inhabit * The Early Universe * Origins of Structure * Life in the Universe * Epilogue * Appendix A: Astronomical Terminology * Appendix B: Astrophysical Constants * List of References * Index.