This volume offers a unique review of how astronomical information handling (in the broad sense) evolved during the course of the 20th century, and especially during its second half. It is a natural complement to the book "Information Handling in Astronomy" published in the same series. The scope of these two volumes includes not only dealing with professional astronomical data from the collecting instruments (ground-based and space-borne) to the users / researchers, but also publishing, education and public outreach. In short, the information flow in astronomy is thus illustrated from sources (cosmic objects) to end (mankind's knowledge). The experts contributing to this book have done their best to write in a way understandable to readers not necessarily hyperspecialized in astronomy while providing specific detailed information, as well as plenty of pointers and bibliographic elements. Especially enlightening are some "lessons learned" sections.
