History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Turn Left at Orion: A Hundred Night Sky Objects to See in a Small Telescope--and How to Find Them

Average customer rating:

Best Book for Prospective Telescope Owners
Good but...
Not the book for me!
Don't get frustrated with your small scope!!!!!!
Get this book for ASTRONOMY buffs.

Turn Left at Orion: A Hundred Night Sky Objects to See in a Small Telescope--and How to Find Them
Guy Consolmagno , and Dan M. Davis
Manufacturer: Cambridge University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0521781906

Book Description

A superb guidebook described in Bookwatch as 'the home astronomer's "bible"', Turn Left at Orion provides all the information beginning amateur astronomers need to observe the Moon, the planets and a whole host of celestial objects. Large format diagrams show these objects exactly as they appear in a small telescope and for each object there is information on the current state of our astronomical knowledge. Revised and updated, this new edition contains a chapter with ten new spreads describing spectacular deep sky objects visible from the southern hemisphere, and tips on observing the upcoming transits of Venus. It also discusses Dobsonian telescopes, with hints on using personal computers and the Internet as aids for planning an observing session. Also new to this edition are redrawn "Guidepost" figures at the beginning of each season chapter that allow readers to visualize a three-dimensional view of the sky's dome; redesigned seasonal object layouts that provide more space for the naked-eye charts; a new spread on double stars near Boötes has been added to Spring, replacing the "Shrinking Double" spread; and a unique "When and Where to Look" table has been added to the last page, among other new features. Unlike many guides to the night sky, this book is specifically written for observers using small telescopes. Clear and easy to use, this fascinating book will appeal to skywatchers of all ages and backgrounds. No previous knowledge of astronomy is needed.

Customer Reviews:

Best Book for Prospective Telescope Owners.......2007-09-25

Most astronomy books and magazines for amateurs are filled with highly-processed, color photographs of planets and deep sky objects taken with long-exposures through observatory telescopes. I call these photos astroporn because they raise new telescope owner's expectation to unrealistic levels. One cannot see full color detailed images through a small telescope with the naked eye. "Turn Left at Orion" accurately describes with sketches what one will actually see.

I recommend that prospective telescope buyers check out "Turn Left at Orion" before they fork over their hard earned cash. If you decide to buy a telescope anyway, this book gives clear directions on how to find and observe over one hundred objects in a non-technical way making it the best book to start with. While this book may be too simple for experienced amateurs, I highly recommend it for it's accurate descriptions and clear instructions.

Good but..........2007-09-01

Many have sung the praise of this book...I'm somewhat of a "newbie" had a 13" Dobsonian "light-bucket" 20 years ago, but never really did much...just bot a 102mm Celestron spotting scope. So have been buying books to aid me in getting into Astronomy better this time...This book is good for children...but a better book for adults is Neil Bone's Deep Sky Observer's Guide. It's also set up for small scopes under 100mm. The Orion book has very simple finder maps and is organized by season. Bone's book is organized by type of object, such as "open cluster" and then by easy to difficult to find. Bone's finder charts are much better in artistic value and use, being white stars on blue background, where as most of Orion's are black stars on white background. Orion has 100 objects to view, Bone has over 200...At the end of Bone's are: 8 very nice star charts as well as each constellation listing objects and a Messier List and a list of Objects by Magnitude and finally a list of Objects by Seasons (to view). All in all 215 power packed pages!...Yes the Orion is a hard back, but the binding is glue-injected pages, will the binding crack and pages fall out??...Bone's is a paperback, but the leaves are folded and stitched, so pages will NEVER fall out. Bone's book is 5X8, Orion is 9X11 1/2 much bigger to take outside and pack around. I woun't be using Orion much. Bone I will use a lot.

Not the book for me!.......2007-06-22

I am an amateur and bought this book based on the other reviews and ratings given. I was looking for a book to help me locate some of the more interesting night sky objects and this one seemed to be "the book." Well, when I got the book, I opened it up and immediately felt a little overwhelmed by all of the text-and I do mean there is a lot of text. More than I wanted. This book just wasn't what I was looking for in a guide to the night sky. Perhaps later on, I will find this book more helpful.

Don't get frustrated with your small scope!!!!!!.......2007-04-30

I've read a series of astronomy books, but Left at Orion and Nightwatch (by Dickinson) are at the top of my list. If I had a small refractor, Left at Orion would be the best pick. Nightwatch by Dickinson is best for picking the right scope and accessories and learing the celestrial objects (e.g. planets and stuff). However, Left at Orion is the best for learing how to locate objects in the night sky USING A SMALL TELESCOPE. I've been pulling my hair out about not being able to locate objects for the longest, but now I have a great tool that will help me. This is the book you use in the dark. I sit down by my scope with my RED flashlight and this book that is such a great guidance. So don't get frustrated and throw away your small scope just yet. Get comfortable and use this guide. You can always upgrade and have the small scope for for any company who wants to join you. I wish I didn't return my small scope so quickly. Anyways, after reading this book, I bought an 80mm refractor to travel on the plane with because I can't lug that big Newtonian Dob around. Yes, Left at Orion and Nightwatch are the best picks whether you have a small refractor or a big reflector. However, Nightwatch (by Dickinson) is a book to buy when you want to upgrade your telescope. Be ware: Dickinson does NOT have the nicest things to say about the small telescopes, however, if you want to upgrade, BUY NIGHTWATCH FIRST BEFORE PURCHASING A NEW TELESCOPE!!! Please read the other reviews to help guide your purchase.

Get this book for ASTRONOMY buffs........2007-02-12

This book was given to an ASTRONOMY buff along with a telescope.

The Night Sky 30°-40° (Large; North Latitude)

Average customer rating:

Extremely Helpful for Beginner Astronomy Class
Night Sky
Excellent tool
Star gazing
Best In The Night Sky

The Night Sky 30°-40° (Large; North Latitude)
David S. Chandler
Manufacturer: David Chandler Co.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Map

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ASIN: 0961320753

Book Description

The Night Sky is a rotating star finder (planisphere) that allows the user to recognize the constellations for any time of night, any day of the year. The sky appears to rotate (due to the rotation and orbital motion of the earth), so to be successful recognizing the constellations a beginner needs to know which stars are above the horizon at any time.

This is the full-sized version of The Night Sky suitable for the 30°-40° latitude zone (southern half of the US, North Africa, Middle East, etc.). We have versions for the following latitude zones: 50°-60°, 40°-50°, 30°-40°, 20°-30°, and the Southern Hemisphere. We also have pocket-sized versions available for the same latitude zones.

Customer Reviews:

Extremely Helpful for Beginner Astronomy Class.......2007-10-03

This is an awesome product for any student who is taking any type of Astronomy Class. I've been able to find so many constellations. Great tool.

Night Sky.......2007-05-12

The product functions as represented. It was received on time in good condition and I am well pleased

Excellent tool.......2007-03-29

Very well constructed, and easy to use. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in astronomy.

Star gazing.......2007-02-06

Superb product. The prduct is made of sturdy material(plastic?) not like the cardboard one I owned in the past. I love the clear plastic cover which can keep the dew and my fingerprints at bay. The chart itself, in addition, to the constellations locates Messier objects and nebulae.
This is great item to take on a camping trips or just stash in the glove compartment for impromptu stops to see the stars.

Make sure you buy the chart that is at or near the latitude where you live. The USA runs from 30-50 degrees latitude. So if you live at or south of New York and Denver then get the 30-40. If much above that, get the 40-50 degree latitude

Best In The Night Sky.......2007-01-05

After much careful comparing I found this Plainesphere to be the best one out there. Has a back side which is actually useful. I bought 2 as Christmas gifts and were enthusiastically received. Highly recommended.
By the way - also get a Red LED flashlight to go with these to preserve night vision. Amazon has a great small one at a good price.

National Audubon Society Field Guide to the Night Sky (Audubon Society Field Guide Series)

Average customer rating:

Fallen from grace
Excellent Guide
'Out on the lawn I lie in bed...'
A Stargazer's Delight!
Everything you want to know, and more

National Audubon Society Field Guide to the Night Sky (Audubon Society Field Guide Series)
NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY
Manufacturer: Knopf
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Turtleback

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ASIN: 0679408525
Release Date: 1991-10-15

Book Description

The perfect companion volume for Hale-Bopp watchers, this guide explores the fabulous mysteries above, from planets in our solar system to the constellations in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, stars, galaxies (including the Milky Way), nebulae, astronomical bodies, objects, phenomena, and -- yes -- comets. Night Sky provides a concise guided tour of the heavens with 48 monthly sky charts of the northern sky and 88 constellation charts, each offering a detailed map of individual constellations. Essays on the universe, the solar system, and constellations introduce the reader to the wonders of the sky.

Customer Reviews:

Fallen from grace.......2006-08-26

I've used this book for years with happy results. I've often impressed friends with my knowledge of planetary positions in the night sky by using the "planetary longitude" table in the appendices.

However, this year marked the end of the usefullness of the planetary longitude table(which is something I use a lot). It only has information through 2005. Audubon should offer an update to this so I don't have to purchase the book again just to get the P.L. table.

Excellent Guide.......2005-11-28

If you're interested in studying the night sky by eye, this is an awesome guide. The explanations are clear, the charts are great, and the background material is interesting. It will tell you what you can see up there, how to find it, and when you'll be able to see it, which was exactly what I was looking for. This book has everything you need to appreciate your backyard view more fully.

'Out on the lawn I lie in bed...'.......2004-12-21

For those who remain spellbound by the canopy of night with all the beauty and mythology and mystery gazing at the stars brings to mind, this book is a godsend. Without requiring previous courses in astronomy and without spending hours cross referencing words to match constellations to match positions to match meanings, this book comfortably and beautifully offers maps and photographs, essays and information that make looking heavenward all the more exciting. The writing is accurate, updated, understandable to the novice, and makes a terrific companion to seeking answers and directions to the stars and the planets. A valuable aide to your appreciation of the universe! Grady Harp, December 2004

A Stargazer's Delight!.......2003-04-01

One of my favorite books on the bookshelf, simply because of its easy-to-read format, and information for both the amateur stargazer and serious astronomer. The book covers everything that the curiousity seeker is looking for, with an exhaustive selection of sky charts for each month, a detailed section featuring each constellation with its history and details, and an exciting tour of the solar system and its celestial denizens.
Plenty of information, and just the right amount of photographs, too. A handy guide for everyone curious about the world "up there"!

Everything you want to know, and more.......2002-02-04

I'm not astronomer, but I can tell that the volume of information in this guide would impress even a hardcore stargazer. The book includes exhaustively detailed descriptions of all notable phenomena visible with a telescope, lists the entire Messier Catalog with descriptions of each item, has comprehensive starcharts meticulously organized by date, and has a description of all the major star constellations. There is also an in-depth analysis of the solar system and a complete scientific background on all the terminology.

A layman reading this guide will come away with enough information to at least sound like an expert on the night sky. There are even some sections on speculative astronomy, such as the nature of black holes and the Big Bang theory. If you are at all interested in astronomy, this is THE guide to get. It will serve as an invaluable counterpart to your telescope, and makes fascinating reading any time. As far as I have seen, there isn't a published guide to compare with this one.

Average customer rating:

A Glow In The Dark Guide to the NIght Sky

great introduction to constellation gazing

Amazing!!

Constellations: A Glow-in-the-Dark Guide to the Night Sky
Chris Sasaki
Manufacturer: Sterling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Seeing Stars

Find the Constellations

Glow-in-the-Dark Constellations

A Walk through the Heavens: A Guide to Stars and Constellations and their Legends

A Child's Introduction to the Night Sky: The Story of the Stars, Planets, and Constellations--and How You Can Find Them in the Sky

ASIN: 1402703856

Book Description

Reach for the stars, with this beautiful glow-in-the-dark guide to the science and mythology behind the constellations.

Children will see the stars shining brightly right in their own room with this glow-in-the-dark introduction to the night sky. Each constellation sparkles brilliantly on the page, thanks to the special ink that illuminates the lush artwork. And even as the luminous illustrations encourage stargazing, the kid-friendly text presents a perfect mix of simple science and storytelling. Along with very basic astronomical facts about our galaxy and the major constellations are the world myths of the gods and heroes whose names grace today’s star maps. Take the tale of Andromeda—the princess sacrificed to save her father’s kingdom who lives in the long, curved “V” of stars best seen in late fall. With information on constellations from Cygnus the Swan to Orion the Hunter, it’s an appealing, interactive approach to a popular subject.

Customer Reviews:

A Glow In The Dark Guide to the NIght Sky.......2007-05-15

This is an interesting book for youg children.
We had to wait for a very overcast day to darken the room enough to see the glow. The kids liked it.

great introduction to constellation gazing.......2007-01-28

Each two page spread introduces a constellation, gives a brief synopsis of the story, and illustrates the constellation. The embedded stars glow in the dark, so you can turn off the lights and view what the constellation looks like in the night sky. The glow in the dark feature helps imprint the pattern of the stars in each constellation on your brain with the added drama of "and now let's turn off the lights and see...." The inside flaps of the book offer a picture of the constellations without illustration but with the stars connected.

Amazing!!.......2006-08-07

This is one of the most unique books I have ever seen! Both my four year old and myself have learned so much about the constellations. The details about each constellation make it easy for my son to remember the names and stories behind them. The glow in the dark feature is amazing. I definitely recommend purchasing this high quality unique book.

Exploring the Night Sky: The Equinox Astronomy Guide for Beginners

Average customer rating:

Young Minds Latch onto the Stars
Christians Beware - Big Bang theory & ET fantasy
Christians Beware - Big Bang theory & ET fantasy
Did well in 1987 .... needs a new edition now.
The bok that hooked me onto astronomy

Exploring the Night Sky: The Equinox Astronomy Guide for Beginners
Terence Dickinson
Manufacturer: Firefly Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0920656668

Book Description

Exploring the Night Sky is aimed at novice star gazers anxious to expand their astronomical repertoire beyond the Big and Little Dippers. Dickinson has designed a superb introduction to astronomy that is clear, concise, beautifully illustrated, and very "user friendly" no matter what the child's age.

Customer Reviews:

Young Minds Latch onto the Stars.......2007-02-15

My eight-year-old grandson practically ate up this book, he was so excited and interested. He had gotten a telescope for Christmas and this book brought his explorations of the night sky to life.

Christians Beware - Big Bang theory & ET fantasy.......2002-12-13

I bought this for our science homeschool since it had a children's award and we just got a telescope. I was disappointed that the first page covers the Big Bang theory - an explosion formed the sun and earth - as well as on page 25. Then on pages 46-47 it covers extraterrestrials. It says "most people believe we are not alone", and "most of us would like to believe that we are not alone in this vast universe". Although he states there is no scientific evidence of alien life, he goes on to fantasize about what aliens could be like, ending with the statement that they would be so far ahead of us technologically, that they may have seen us and since we look primitive they decided not to contact us! I'm going to return the book. Although the other information is well written and the pictures are helpful, I find his big bang and alien assumptions improper food for the minds of my young. I feel sorry for the author, for he would not feel so alone in the universe if he realized there is a God.

Christians Beware - Big Bang theory & ET fantasy.......2002-12-13

Did well in 1987 .... needs a new edition now........2001-10-01

This is a good introduction, and the pictures are great. However, it's dated now. "Jupiter will be below Pegasus in 1987". The stargazing sections give a useful, though basic, guide to the night sky for each season, taking the reader logically from one constellation to another. References to the locations of the planets span 1987 to 1999. Don't look to this book if you want to know where to see the planets tonight. Despite that, the book was worth buying as a first introduction to astronomy.

The bok that hooked me onto astronomy.......2000-02-02

This wonderful book is the one that got me hooked onto astronomy when I was just an 8-year old boy. Now as I am in college and studying astronomy, this book even though old (written c. 1986), has not lost its charm and magic to me. The best part of this book is the beautifully rendered paintings of the night skies and other sights around the universe, which will leave you breathless and in awe of the majestic canvas of the skies. I give it a 2 thumbs up and many stars!

Average customer rating:

A fine guide for the advanced observer
A must-have for advanced amateurs
Another Classic
Both volumes - information among the finest we've ever seen.
Simply a must buy for large-scope owners

The Night Sky Observer's Guide : Vol. 1
George Robert Kepple , and Glen W. Sanner
Manufacturer: Willmann-Bell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Product Features:

Arrangement of the Guide:
Each chapter is devoted to a constellation. The first page is devoted to generalcomments about the constellation. The second page is a map of the constellation which faces a stellar data table which usually fills the entire page.
The remaining pages of each chapter contain photographs, sketches and finding charts - and all of these pages include writen descriptions of objects as seen through different sized instruments.
Constellations Covered:
VOLUME 1: Autumn and Winter

ASIN: 0943396581

Product Description

Amateur astronomers today are exceptionally fortunate to be living in an era when high quality, and very large, optics are so affordable. In the first half of the 20th century the telescope deluxe for the amateur was the 6-inch refractor. However, such telescopes were so expensive that very few amateurs could afford them: the majority of stargazers had to content themselves with instruments in the 60mm range. Consequently, most observing guides published during that time emphasized double and multiple stars, with honorable mention for variable stars and planetary nebulae, objects which do well in long focal length refractors. Webb's 1858 Celestial Objects for Common Telescopes and Olcott's 1936 Field Book of the Skies were not superceded for so many decades simply because the average amateur instrument did not dramatically improve during the century after Webb. By the 1950s the mass-produced or homemade 6-inch parabolic mirror brought medium-sized optics into the price range of the average amateur, and with it the emission nebulae, open clusters, and galaxies that had been seen only as amorphous blobs-if seen at all-in small refractors. The The 1948 Skalnate Pleso Atlas of the Heavens had already displaced the classic Norton's Star Atlas as the frontline sky-chart for amateurs, but the observing guides badly needed rewriting. However, not until the 1970s and Burnham's Celestial Handbook was there an observing guide worthy of the 6-in

Customer Reviews:

A fine guide for the advanced observer.......2006-08-09

For years the advanced observer was hard put to find an appropriate observing guide. Beginners' guides included descriptions but too few objects. The catalogs that came with the bigger atlases contained many objects but little to no description. And then there was Burnham's, a wonderful book for its day but quite inadequate for the modern world of large Dobs, wide-angle eyepieces, and nebula filters.

Now filling the gap is the Night Sky Observer's Guide (NSOG), an intermediate to advanced observing guide which gives ample treatment to the thousands of objects now visible with modern equipment. The work is immense, a treasure chest of observing data for virtually every observable extended object.

It is not really an update of Burnham's, the archetypal cloudy-night read, where individual entries included pages of scientific data and history, mythology, and even images of the constellations' namesakes on coins. Given today's explosion of knowledge, such a comprehensive work would be impossibly large. The NSOG has cut back on the historical and mythological aspects and focused the listings on relevant observing data. A certain breadth of vision has been traded for usefulness in the field. Even so, it is a good cloudy-night read.

Entries of individual objects include typology, location, size, color, difficulty level, visual magnitude, and detailed descriptions of its appearance in different-sized instruments. The work is organized into two volumes, fall and winter in one and spring and summer in the other. Within volumes, objects are arranged by constellation, then by right ascension. Other reviewers have complained about the arrangement, and it is true that I occasionally pick up one volume only to find that the constellation I want is in the other. Maybe listing constellations alphabetically through the two volumes would have been better.

Buyers of the NSOG should be aware of a few other shortcomings:

First, the guide does not include the extreme southern sky, severely limiting its use for observers living anywhere south of Hawaii. I presume that Kepple and Sanner designed the work for observers in the United States, but, as an American observer who regularly travels to Peru, I really would have appreciated coverage of the entire sky by enlisting the participation of observers in the Southern Hemisphere.

Second, the treatment of quasars is haphazard. Only a couple are included. Even the famous 3C173 is put at the very edge of a multiple-object locator chart and shows only half the relevant star field. Quasars are of interest to amateur astronomers, and all, down to 16th magnitude, should be included with ample finder charts.

For an individual object, the text and the illustrations and finder charts are cross-referenced, but the compilers could have taken more pains to keep the illustrations on the same page as the text that refers to them.

As the only detailed and comprehensive advanced observing guide, this work is indispensable. Its many virtues easily outweigh its few weaknesses; if a second edition addresses these, the work will become truly exceptional.

A must-have for advanced amateurs.......2006-07-11

I bought this set from Kepple at Astrofest 2000. It's an amazing set of books, and I think if I lost all my astronomy references, I'd buy this set along with a bright star atlas as the first things I'd replace.
I definitely wouldn't recommend it for beginners, but if you've been observing for a year or more, and especially if you're getting bored with the same old things, these books will keep you busy for YEARS.
Especially helpful are the descriptions of objects submitted by multiple observers using different sized scopes.

Another Classic.......2002-01-08

This two volume set will certainly join Burnhams three volume set as a long term classic, superior in some ways, but drier and very professional in others. The numerous drawings and charts are priceless in locating deep sky objects. An earlier reviewer is correct in needing a complete sky atlas as well, such as Tirion's, to accompany the immense detail in these two volumes. The leaning toward large aperture is hardly a deficiency. It's a pity both volumes are listed here as "unavailable"....

Both volumes - information among the finest we've ever seen........2001-08-10

If it wasn't for the fact that this work is such an exhaustive expression of observational material, and partially devoted to users of larger telescopes, it would most certainly be placed on the Belmont Society's "Required Reading List". As it is, these two wonderful volumes of information are both extraordinarily useful and educationally priceless for intermediate beginners and the advanced amateur. It is mostly "tilted" at users of larger scopes, but those of us who have an interest in small and medium-sized instruments will greatly appreciate its enormous cache of useful information - i.e.: just double stars alone, to cite an example.

By itself, the data is worth the price of admission. But the foundational text is a bottomless well from which to draw buckets of valuable knowledge about all the known types of deep space objects. This information is compiled in an ideal arrangement, and is laid out in logical and sensible format. Explanations and informative text are among the finest we've ever seen. The sheer quantity of information, along with an exemplary written style gives the impression that this work was composed by scores of eminent astrophysicists and astronomers, all contributing within the realms of their individual specialties, and then edited by a single omnipotent director. And sure enough, there is a lengthy acknowledgment to the contributors, the roster of which is very extensive, and the complexion of which is almost exclusively amateur.

The work is divided into two volumes or seasonal groups - Volume #1 is dedicated to Fall and Winter constellations, and #2 consists of Spring and Summer. Each volume is divided into segments, which present its constellations in alphabetical order. Each constellation begins with an impressively detailed list of double stars. Then there are the deep sky objects - dark nebulae, emission nebulae, globulars, galaxies, etc. Each individual object is given a description and a graphic rating (5 stars for the very best, and so on) with notes that justify its rank. Additionally, objects are listed in chart form by type as well. Sad to say, objects below a minimal southern latitude are not included.

For the most part, object descriptions are presented as seen with apertures between 8 and 12 inches (and larger). Roughly 30 percent of the observations are described as seen with smaller apertures, and some binocular objects are listed as well. As mentioned, the double star listings are superbly done. There are over 2,100 worthy examples of these. This list is among the most detailed we've ever seen.

These are a pair of really big books! There's an interesting but typical reaction displayed upon seeing one close-up for the first time. They dwarf the average encyclopedia edition (remember those?). They are even bigger than the law books you see behind the District Attorney's desk on a TV serial. And we appreciate the hard glossy cover with no separate jacket to rip or lose. They aren't cheap books either. It would seem practical for the amateur on a budget to acquire them separately.

Kepple and Sanner are amateur astronomers who've created a magnificent work, worthy of commendation reserved for meritorious professionals. The magnitude of their efforts is astonishing, even considering that all of it was pieced together from smaller works that they themselves authored quite some time ago. We are so impressed with the quality of this work, that we've given it "Honorable Mention" status on the Belmont Society's "Required Reading" list. The only reason it didn't make the main list is because many amateurs do not have access to, or are deprived of the opportunity or the means to use larger aperture telescopes.

Very highly recommended.

Simply a must buy for large-scope owners.......2001-07-11

This is the first volume of an incredible deep sky reference work for amateurs. First of all, the introduction written by Craig Crossen (noted astronomer and author) is the finest overview of basic layman's astronomy theory and observing conventions that I have run across.

The rest of the book consists of sketches or photographs and descriptions of hundreds of deep sky objects in all constellations visible from mid-northern latitudes during the Fall and Winter seasons. The second book covers Spring and Summer. Objects are described as to how they appear with telescopes of different apertures. The majority of objects are for large scope owners, e.g. 12"+, but the brighter objects like Messier are even described for 4" scopes.

The maps and finder charts are adequate but you'll need a good star chart to complement them and confirm that you've got your target. Each constellation chapter begins with a table of interesting double and multiple stars, an excellent and thoughtful inclusion for medium-size scope owners who may not be able to see many of the DSOs or for those in cities where DSOs are wiped out by light pollution.

I haven't seen a guide to compare to NSOG in depth of coverage. The two large volumes are enough to keep large scope owners busy for many years. There are nice guides out there with better descriptions of far fewer objects (e.g. The Universe From Your Backyard by Eicher), but for sheer quantity NSOG leaves them all in the dust.

Average customer rating:

Still have yet to impress girls with this thing.

Simple to use. Necessary for beginners.

Star Chart

Wonderful map

Good, functional star chart

The Night Sky 40°-50° (Large)
David S. Chandler
Manufacturer: David Chandler Co.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Map

Astronomy | Astronomy | Science | Subjects | Books
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Astronomy | Astronomy | Professional Science | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
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The Night Sky 30°-40° (Large; North Latitude)

NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe

Turn Left at Orion: A Hundred Night Sky Objects to See in a Small Telescope--and How to Find Them

Exploring The Night Sky With Binoculars

Sky & Telescope's Pocket Sky Atlas

ASIN: 0961320745

Book Description

This is the full-sized version of The Night Sky suitable for the 40°-50° latitude zone (northern United States and parts of Europe). We have versions for the following latitude zones: 50°-60°, 40°-50°, 30°-40°, 20°-30°, and the Southern Hemisphere. We also have pocket-sized versions available for the same latitude zones.

Customer Reviews:

Still have yet to impress girls with this thing........2007-10-07

One day, I'll get one of those red LED lights and take a smitten lady out to the middle of nowhere on a new moon to lay on the grass and gaze up at the stars. With this thing, I should have at least the shadow of an idea of what I'm looking at. Why embarrass yourself, calling Cassiopeia "that big W over there"? Face it, we all know what Orion looks like. If you are going to impress someone, you need to pull out the stops and show the ladies your visual spacial "skillz" with this handy chart.

Simple to use. Necessary for beginners........2006-05-08

New to learning the skies, this has helped me greatly. Its really simple to setup and is small and sturdy enough to fit right inside my eyepiece case. A must have.

Star Chart.......2006-03-09

A helpful tool in acertaining the constellations in the night sky any time of the year. Small and compact but easy to use. A definite must have for anyone wanting to learn and know the mystery of the night sky.

Wonderful map.......2005-08-19

This is a truly helpful map of the skies for anyone interested in backyard astronomy. It is very legible, easy to see at night. I am a beginner and was able to find most of the constellations shown. Very durable as well.

Good, functional star chart.......2005-08-18

Chandler's star chart is a classic that is functional, easy-to-use, and valuable for people just learning the night sky. Its main features are its large size and lamination -- important as summer evening dew inevitably turns most paper products saggy. This is recommended for people desiring to learn their way around the night sky and build an understanding of the universe.

Queen of the Midnight Skies: The Story of America's Air Force Night Fighters

Average customer rating:

A good reference on the P-61 and other USAAF night fighters.

Queen of the Midnight Skies: The Story of America's Air Force Night Fighters
Garry R. Pape , and Ronald C. Harrison
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Aviation | Military | History | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0887404154

Book Description

This new book chronicles not only the aptly named P-61 "Black Widow", but also the Douglas P-70 series, the P-38 night fighter variants, the Bristol Beaufighter, B-25s and the DeHavilland Mosquito - the proposed XA-26A and the P-39 nightfighters are also discussed. Historical accounts of American night fighter pilots, as well as the complets history of all night fighter squadrons formed during World War II are included, as is the development of radar and modern air defenses. This book is the product of over twenty years of study and research. Its sources include the National Archives, Northrop Aircraft archived, the U.S. Air Force Museum, the Imperial War Museum, the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum and interviews with P-61 test pilots, designers and engineers. Garry Pape's previous works include books on the P-61 and the P-38 night-fighter versions. He is currently employed by Northrop, after years with Hughes and Lockheed, and lives in California. Brig. Gen. Ronald Harrison is an F-16 Wing Commander in the Air Force Reserves, and lives in Georgia as an attorney., over 700 b/w and color photographs, maps, 8 1/2" x 11", Squadron victory listing

Customer Reviews:

A good reference on the P-61 and other USAAF night fighters........1999-10-26

Here is a thorough history of American Army Air Force night fighters (the forerunners of all-weather fighters) in WW II. The book begins with a history of American airbone radar development, then moves on to the aircraft to carry the radar. The authors cover the "interim" night fighter aircraft: the P-70s (modified A-20s), the field modified P-38s and their combat usage. Night fighter concept aircraft are also discussed, including a little known Bell P-39 night fighter mockup and the Douglas XA-26A. It would have been interesting to know the performance (or anticipated performance) of this aircraft as it was a potential competitor of the P-61. Crew training is covered and it is amazing that with all the reorganization that went on anyone had time to fight a war. Lacking a suitable aircraft (while waiting for the P-61) the Americans attempted to arrange a reverse "lend-lease" program whereby the British provided Bristol Beaufighters (the Yanks hated the "Bristol Bastard"), and later DeHaviland Mosquitos. The British were good at making commitments to do this but rather poor in actually following through. The Northrop P-61 Black Widow (ostensibly the Queen of the title) was America's purpose built night fighter and its development and usage are well covered. This information alone would make the book worth the purchase price. An interesting point involving the P-61's combat usage is that RAF Mosquitos intercepted P-61s (a distinctive plane unlike any German aircraft the "Mossies" might be expecting) and fired on them, apparently on a number of occasions. There is no evidence of reverse mistakes from the American P-61s. Also included are a wealth of photos, unit statistics and ending the book is a comprehensive bibliography. This book makes an excellent companion to author Gary Pape's other book on the P-61 ("Northrop P-61 The Complete History and Combat Record") and is possibly the definitive work on USAAF night fighting aircraft and men.

The Box of Stars: A Practical Guide to the Mythology of the Night Sky

Average customer rating:

Catch a Falling Star and Put It In Your Pocket
Makes a great gift
Education with artwork!

The Box of Stars: A Practical Guide to the Mythology of the Night Sky
Catherine Tennant
Manufacturer: Bulfinch Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Cards

Astronomy | Astronomy | Science | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0821220381

Customer Reviews:

Catch a Falling Star and Put It In Your Pocket.......2002-11-04

I got this as the perfect gift for ME, but it really would make a wonderful gift for just about anybody. Who hasn't enjoyed gazing up at the diamonds in the sky and who hasn't tried to visualize the constellations? I love this set. I'm not an astronomer, I just love looking at the stars and I enjoy the myths about the characters that wheel above us in the starry heavens. This set contains a very well written 87 page guide book that is a quality paperback measuring 5 1/2" X 8", thirty-two cards that are slightly larger, and maps of the hemispheres. The book gives us the myth behind each of the constellations included in the set and also tells us about the major stars in each of the constellations, giving us brief scientific information as well as how to locate the constellation. It is not a professional astronomer's handbook, but is intended for the novice, and as such is excellent. The cards were invented by "a lady" in 1825 in London and were originally hand-painted. She called them Urania's Mirror. They are an original way to learn to recognize the constellations. Each card is pierced with tiny holes of varying sizes that glitter when held up to the light. These look like the constellations and give one an image to look for in the night sky. They are made of sturdy card stock and are colorful and have the abundant charm of 19th century map art. This is a super teaching aid and seems more "hands-on" and intimate than learning strictly from a book. The box that the book and cards come in is very sturdy and will hold up to lots of wear. It is not like the chintzy material that, for example, a Tarot deck would come in. It has a removable top, separate from the bottom, rather than tuck-in flaps. It is a deep indigo color with gold lettering, very attractive. It is meant to be a quality gift set that will last.

Makes a great gift.......2002-01-15

This box of stars holds a neat little pocketbook guide to the 88 constellations plus the legends & myths behind them. Its definitely a starter guide so don't expect a full size book. Its more like a thick pamphlet of the major legends. I bought it for the beautiful llustrations drawn in that old world cartography art. Its a great coffee table book/box. If you're looking for the same artwork, there's a blankbook planisphere on amazon by Paperblanks Book Company.

Education with artwork!.......2000-01-08

While the information is more mythological than astronomical, this is a very interesting little "box". It gives the full stories of the major constellations, and information on locating them. Where it excells, is in the set of cards that come with it. They are beautiful portraits of the constellations in their mythological forms, and the major stars are "punched" so that when held up to the light you can get a sense of what it will look like outdoors. Very tastefully done, it is the kind of item that would hook a young person on astronomy. It's even nice for old people too.

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