Product Description
A basic field guide for beginning observers of the night sky, introducing information on the locations, names, and characteristics of stars, constellations, and other bodies in outer space. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

All you need to enjoy the night sky
I bought this book to start off with exploring the night sky and thought I would graduate to something more elaborate later.. Few months down, I am still with this book. It's a neat, compact guide (I carry it in my purse) that will help a beginner but also has enough for someone a little more advanced.

Not a shining star
Recognizing this is a $6 "First Guide," overall, it pretty much provides what one would expect: a decent dry survey of constellations, planets, and other astronomical features with some truncated star maps. And it's in a slim handy-to-pocket volume. However, two aspects make this guide subpar, even for the price.First, in a few places they did a poor job of updating the 1988 edition to this 2006 version.For instance, we are told to expect another exciting Leonid meteor shower in 1998 or 1999 (page 62).Second, they should make it clear - on the cover - this guide is geared to the northern latitudes. This little fact is buried in the third paragraph of the introduction.

Handy and accurate
I find this book most useful for the 12 star maps found at the very begining. It gives basic information about astronomy in a comprehensible manner. The book is handy enough to keep with you and with a small penlight you can reference the maps while observing the night sky, easily fits in a jacket or pans back pocket. Additionally I found the mythology behind the traditional western culture naming of the constellations interesting.

Only criticisms include 1) as previously mentioned, no star charts for the Southern Hemisphere and 2) wasted pages printing illustrations of the characters the constellations represent. These pages could have been used to add Southern Hemisphere maps or to discuss more then the listed 13 constellations.

Not for the Southern Hemisphere.
Quite a well thought out book to take around with you.
BUT... limited use to me as there are no Southern Hemisphere maps or details (even the Southern Cross is absent).
Would not have purchased it had I realised. At least it was cheap!

Compact;concise.
Great little book for the beginner.Portable,so you can take it with you on your nighttime prowling of the universe.Written in a manner that newbies such as myself can understand.A good companion to all my other amateur astronomy books.Inexpensive,as well.Not as comprehensive as those other books,but this is a field guide,and it serves its purpose well. ... Read more

Product Description
"The author has done a fine job in suggesting to the amateur astronomer many stimulating and important projects that can be undertaken with modest equipment...This book, together with its many useful tables and biographical references, should be a valuable volume in the libraries of most serious amateur astronomers."--Sten Odenwald, Harvard ObservatoryThis concise, highly readable book provides amateur and student astronomers with the practical knowledge needed to observe and explore a myriad of fascinating phenomena and engage in numerous experiments and projects. From learning how to use telescopes and astronomical photography to studying planetary rotations, supernovae, and spectacular meteor showers, this book covers a broad range of topics. Contents include selecting a telescope, setting it up and maintaining it; amateur studies of the sun; lunar topography and occultations; observations of Mars, Jupiter,Saturn, the minor planets and the stars; and an introduction to photoelectric photometry. 1981 ed. 124 figures. 26 halftones. 37 tables.
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Customer Reviews (2)

How do you define an amateur?
If you are brand new to astronomy, say have your first telescope and want to learn more, think twice before buying this book.Or, any book for that matter. I have yet to find a book that begins with the very basics and works from there.(Just ordered Astronomy for Dummies, in hopes this will meet my requirement).

My experience so far is that astronomy books are densely written, and begin with complex concepts and terminology.This one is no different.

Also note how old this book is.I suspect, but don't know, that it needs to be updated.

A good collection of projects for the amateur astronomer
This book was written in the early 80s but is still useful today as a guide to how an amateur astronomer can contribute to the science.It covers many observing topics in-depth and explains how to document findings: variable stars, double star orbits, sunspots, asteroid light curves, comets.The book also contains a section on photography and the use of a couple handy instruments that are now probably outdated.

I read the book but haven't actually begun any of the projects covered in it, mainly because I just like to observe with my telescope and not get mired in the science.However, the book did help me become more familiar with the use of telescopes as scientific instruments and not just as windows on the universe. ... Read more

Product Description
This guide provides comprehensive practical information for both beginning and advanced amateur astronomers on how to make scientifically significant observations.The book explains in detail how to observe every conceivable astronomical object--from meteors to distant galaxies.It presents a wide variety of methods ranging from the simplest visual observations, such as making pencil drawings of the surface of the Moon, to the use of highly sophisticated equipment, such as CCD cameras and photoelectric photometers.It also explains how to record and catalog observations using recognized professional terminology and classification schemes. The volume's emphasis throughout is on giving amateur astronomers sound information to use at the telescope. The most effective and efficient techniques are presented so that observers can apply those that are most suitable to their own equipment and degree of experience.This comprehensive survey of practical methods of observation will develop the observational skills of the avid novice and will also satisfy the more demanding needs of the experienced amateur astronomer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent book on making scientific observations
This two-volume work (vol 1 on the solar system, vol 2 on everything else) is indispensible in learning how to make scientifically useful observations with modest or expensive equipment. Comprised of separate articles onspecific subjects, like "Spectroscopy", "Double Stars","Jupiter", or "Photometry", each section delves deeplyinto how to make accessories or observations that are of scientific value. It is incredibly detailed.My only detraction is that the text istranslated from the French and once in a while the text can be confusing(especially the description of the "V" micrometer in the doublestar section which, in my opinion, is nearly unintelligible). ... Read more

Product Description
This book is primarily a practical guide for observers with normal or giant binoculars, or 'richest-field' telescopes, who wish to get the most out of their instruments. Apart from that, it is also a readable, well-illustrated book for 'arm-chair observers'. The central point of interest is wide-field astronomy - areas of the night sky that are particularly rich in objects. The Milky Way itself is the ultimate 'wide-field' object and therefore its general features and the regions rich in clusters and nebulae are described. A chapter on clusters emphasizes open clusters best viewed in binoculars followed by a chapter on large but faint nebulae invisible to standard telescopes but visible to binoculars. The last chapter deals with fields in which groups of bright galaxies can be seen. The full-page color and black-and-white photos are one of the best features of this book and make it appealing to the general reader. The practical observer is shown exactly where objects are with respect to one another. ... Read more

Product Description

While most amateur astronomers know about the red shift, have a general idea of the way that the emission and absorption lines in stellar spectra provide an insight into the atomic processes of the star, it is unusual to find someone who has any kind of detailed knowledge. The reason isn’t lack on interest – far from it – but is because all the books currently available are pitched at professional astronomers and degree students, and are to say the least, difficult to read.

This is the first non-technical book on this subject, written specifically for practical amateur astronomers. It includes all the science necessary for a qualitative understanding of stellar spectra, but avoids a mathematical treatment which would alienate many of its intended readers.

Any amateur astronomer who carries out (or who is interested in) observational spectroscopy and who wants a non-technical account of the physical processes which determine the intensity and profile morphology of lines in stellar spectra will find this is the only book written specially for him. And of course, "armchair astronomers" who simply want to understand the physical processes which shape lines in stellar spectra will find this book equally fascinating.

Customer Reviews (2)

One of the best books I've read
It's amazing how the author can make such difficult, complicated issues seem so easy.His explanations are clear and easy to understand even for this rather technical subject.This is one of the best scientific books I have ever read.

The dawn of a new epoch of amateur astronomy
This is the book that I was expecting for along time. As Professor of Surgery I have to read medical textbooks, and I appreciate those concise volumes dedicated to medical students that can help me, then I suppose that this book could be useful to astrophysics too, not only to amateur astronomers like me. The aims of Robinson's book have been successful: to explain the physical processes that cause the stellar spectra with a language understandable. I am very grateful to Robinson that the important concepts are showed repeatedly along the book. He teaches us how the quantum theory explains all spectral mysteries. Starting with the electromagnetic radiation, the black body concept, Robinson expounds in great detail, but very understandable, the electron transition, the energy levels (the famous Ha line), and the consequences when a photon collides with an atom (excitation, ionisation). The quantum numbers are depicted very well with clear diagrams, and how they determine the energy levels and the spectral series. Up to here, it is the atom lab information; but the stellar objects are very complexes: objects with velocity (the famous Doppler effect), and atmospheres with temperature, pressure, and turbulence..., physical processes that cause the broadening of spectral lines. Robinson details the spectral line profiles with examples useful to amateur astronomers. After to expound the absorption lines and the emission lines, Robinson explains the whys the nebulae, with gas that absorb the photons of the central star, have emission lines instead of absorption lines. Robinson use the chapter of accretion disks as pretext of to speak us that amateurs astronomers could performer astrophysical modelling. The book finishes with the exposition of the P Cygni profile, and the world of magnetic field. Robinson has been very clever with this difficult task, the magnetic field, in order to teach the important marks for the amateur. Finally my modest recommendations for those amateurs that would like to start in this field: to read the Tonkin's book "Practical Amateur Spectroscopy", and the course of Aude Peltier "Initiation a la spectographie" (tutorial of astrosurf.com).
Dr. Barneo
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Product Description
Patrick Moore has pulled together a group of professional and amateur astronomers, each an expert in a particular field, to describe how to observe every category of object that is within reach of an astronomical telescope of modest size.

Each chapter deals with a different class of object, covering the whole range of possibilities from the Moon, planets and stars to more specialised observations of comets, novae, and meteors.

If you own - or are thinking of buying - an astronomical telescope, here is the book that will help you get the most enjoyment out of it. It also explains how best to use your telescope for proper scientific observations, for astronomy is one of the few remaining areas of science where a lot of useful work can be carried out by non-professionals.

A companion book, The Modern Amateur Astronomer, deals with the non-observational aspects of astronomy, from buying a telescope (or making your own), through electronic equipment and accessories, to more technical aspects such as spectroscopy and astrophotography. ... Read more

Product Description
Amateur astronomy, with its image as a cold, dark and damp passtime has generally attracted only the most hardy enthusiasts! This is set to change. In recent years technology has advanced so much that amateur astronomers are now able to achieve what professionals were doing at the end of the 1960s. Observers are able to make use of sophisticated equipment such as CCDs and robotic telescopes in the comfort of a their own homes.

Such improvements have meant that the observer / photographer can capture an image, and within minutes e-mail it to fellow observers worldwide. The wider availability of computer controlled telescopes has meant that astronomers can do real science and make discoveries in their own gardens. Amateurs can measure comet and asteroid positions and even chart the weather patterns on Jupiter if they so wish!

Martin Mobberley has written The New Amateur Astronomer to inspire determined beginners and experienced observers alike. All the aspects of the new hi-tech astronomy are covered. The book is divided in to two parts, the first dealing with the basics and equipment, and the second discussing the observers and their techniques. Throughout the book there are numerous planetary, cometary and Deep Sky images and also pictures of the observers and the equipment discussed - all designed to spur the astronomer in to this exciting and innovative field! ... Read more

Product Description
For anyone who has tried—and failed—to find the Big Dipper or Orion's Belt, this information-filled reference guide is the perfect introduction to discovering the wonders of the sky.Includes computer-generated maps that simplify identification, a mini-almanac to pinpoint the planets each month as well as advice on buying and using binoculars or a telescope, even a table that explains when to watch for meteor showers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good for beginners NOT FOR KIDS!
Bought this for my daughter because the reviews said good for beginners... JEEZ! Not for kids though! I wish there were astronomy books for beginner KIDS!

This book uses terms maybe not so easy for younger people. A bit dry, even for me.

It's on the bookshelf and hasn't come off.

Fine Introduction
This is a good introduction of astronomy's techniques for beginers, It is well explained and concise. Including humor and acurate data, it will make you a good amateur astronomer. It works even if you are latin-american. ... Read more

Product Description
Document and sketch your skywatching experiences in this astronomy notebook.Record your frame of reference, sketch key features in the night sky, record the astronomical coordinates for your observation, describe and sketch the object or event observed, describe the object or event viewed in detail, record quantitative data, and perform calculations in your notebook.This astronomy notebook serves as a diary for your observations of the night sky, and as a notebook in which to record quantitative data and qualitative observations.Compared to traditional blank notebooks/journals or starting from scratch with a word processor, this astronomy notebook provides a built-in structure for more organized observations.A class using these notebooks will record observations with a more uniform format.Assigning regular viewings of celestial objects and events to be recorded in this notebook is a great way to give astronomy students practice observing the night sky. ... Read more

Product Description
Together, this two-volume set provides amateur astronomers with all the information they require to set up their telescopes and embark upon an exciting exploration of the night sky.Complete with trouble-shooting advice, practical tips for observing over 200 interesting celestial objects, and information about the latest products and resources, this set of Covington's two books is an essential purchase for every new telescope owner. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

How to use "Go To" scopes and what to use them on
Covington's "Practical Amateur Astronomy 2 Volume Set" is for beginner and intermediate amatuer astronomers who have or are thinking of aquiring a computerized telescope. It consists of two titles, "How to Use a Computerized Telescope" and "Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes", which complemet each other well.

The first book, "How to Use a Computerized Telescope" , is divided into two sections. The first covers basic topics on the use, care and feeding of telescopes in general. The second looks at three classic "Go To" telescope families. If you are looking to buy a computerized telescope, or already own one and want to get more out of it, then this is a good place to start.

Chapters:
PART I - Telescopes in general
1. Welcome to amatuer astronomy
2. How the sky moves
3. How telescopes track the stars
4. Using equatorial mounts and wedges
5. Telescope optics
6. Eyepieces and optical accessories
7. Astrophotography
8. Troubleshooting
PART II - Three classic telescopes
9. Three that led the revolution
10. Meade LX200
11. Celestron NexStar 5 and 8
12. Meade Autostar (ETX and LX90)

Though the models described in detail in the book are no longer the latest models, the foundations will allow one to get a better understanding of how computerized telescopes work, and how to get more out of their use.

In the second volume, "Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes", Covington suggests various targets and observing programs. But that is not all. Also are tips on how to get the most out of various sources to identify the object of interest from various catalogs or atlases and to be able to tell a "Go To" telescope how to point to it. Probably the most useful pages in the book are the Bayer/Flamsteed to SAO cross-index and the GVCS constellation codes and star numbers.

Chapters:
PART I - Amatuer astronomy
1. Using this book effectively
2. Observing sites and conditions
3. The Moon, the Sun, and eclipses
4. The planets
5. Comets, asteroids (minor planets), and artificial satellites
6. Constellations
7. Stars - identification, nomenclature, and maps
8. Stars - physical properties
9. Double and multiple stars
10. Variable stars
11. Clusters, nebulae, and galaxies
PART II - 200 interesting stars and deep-sky objects
12. How these objects were chosen
13. The January-February sky (R.A. 6h-10h)
14. The March-April sky (R.A. 10h-14h)
15. The May-June sky (R.A. 14h-18h)
16. The July-August sky (R.A. 18h-22h)
17. The September-October sky (R.A. 22h-2h)
18. The November-December sky (R.A. 2h-6h)
Appendices
A. Converting decimal minutes to seconds
B. Precession from 1950 to 2000
C. Julian date, 2001-2015

The logical follow up for "How to Use a Computerized Telescope", this volume shows one how to use the various sources available to find the objects one is interested in studying. If I had this book when I first bought my LX200, I would have developed better habits in planning my observing sessions by being able to identify objects in the manner that the telescope has them identified in its database to find them quicker to allow more time for study and or imaging. ... Read more

Product Description
The strong and effective links between amateur and professional astronomers were brought into prominence at Colloquium 98 of the International Astronomical Union. Amateur observations of such objects as comets, variable stars and novae serve to complement work done with expensive instrumentation by professionals. They fill gaps left by big science and often contribute significantly to astronomical knowledge. The book covers: - historical contributions by amateurs, - observational methods, problems and instrumentation, - results of amateur observations, - popularization. Overall, an exciting and enthusiastic account of stargazing, the hobby that can turn into science. ... Read more

Product Description
This is Patrick Moore's major work to date. To it he has brought all his experience of observing the sky with equipment available to the amateur and his years as lecturer and guide to the beginner as well as to the experienced observer. The result is a book that is essential reading for the inexperienced and a constant guide to those who have some astronomical knowledge and experience. Organized for ease of reading and reference, it discusses the equipment of the amateur, provides a course in the nature of the skies, the solar system, the stars, and the universe. It contains maps, charts, and tables needed by the observer, together with a large number of diagrams and photographic illustrations. This volume thoroughly updates and supplants Patrick Moore's earlier standard work, The Amateur Astonomer. Patrick Moore is Director of the Armagh Planetarium in Ireland. From 1954 to 1963 he was Director of the Mercury and Venus Section of the British Astonomical Association. He was wrriten and lecturer extensively. ... Read more

Product Description
Comprehensive guide for every amateur astronomer who hopes to do more than just star-gaze. Paper. DLC: Astronomical instruments. ... Read more