Book Description
Here is the perfect reference for anyone who owns a telescope or a pair of binoculars, but doesn't know what to look for amid the constellations. It explains how to find double and multiple stars, variable stars, open and globular clusters, nebulae, and galaxies -- and what you'll see when you do. Includes 36 full-page sky charts; equipment, books, and software suggestions; sketches of how deep-sky objects look through a small telescope; and more than 100 black-and-white photographs.
Customer Reviews:
Never Go Observing Without It.......2005-02-27
I have a well used, copy of this book that I find essential while planning a nights viewing session; I also keep it next to my telescope when observing. As the title suggests, only deep sky objects such as nebulas and galaxies are covered. Objects like the moon and planets are "shallow sky" objects and aren't listed. Most of the objects are probably visible in telescopes of medium size from dark sky locations.
This book is divided into 3 main portions. The first briefly covers various types of objects, and equipment and techniques to observe them. The next part lists constellations seasonally. Deep sky objects are listed along with descriptions and star-hopping methods for locating them. The last part is a Mag 6 star atlas, with all the listed objects shown.
One of the other reviewers bemoaned that the descriptions don't mention the pages they appear in the atlas. I agree it would be a nice touch, and is the one thing that I'd wish for.
In my case, I've scribbled notes and underlined portions of text.
Despite this, I highly recommend this book. I find it one of the better beginner-intermediate selections in this field. It doesn't take up too much valuable space, but lists a number of objects both common and overlooked. I keep it with my charts, and it's one of a very select group of objects I keep with my telescope.
Essential reference work for the amateur astronomer.......2004-04-07
This work by Phil Harrington should be in the reference library of any amateur astronomer. Although it has been to some extent superseded by the author's "Star Watch" , information is provided on a more exhaustive listing of objects.
The general impression one receives upon cracking the cover of this book , is of library quality rather than a "field book" , since the paper stock is of high quality gloss finish. I would use this book indoors to plan my observing sessions and use either photocopies of the star charts appended at the end of the book , or a field type star chart for outdoor use.
More classes of objects are covered in this volume than in "Star Watch" : galaxies , asterisms , star clusters , multiple stars , and quasars are all represented. Rather extensive verbal descriptions are included with directions for finding approximately 300 celestial objects , along with very interesting descriptions and explanations of them. The only criticism I have is that a few of the Messier objects are not included.
In a direct comparison with "Star Watch" , I find this volume to be more difficult to use. For a beginning astronomer , I would recommend this book as a follow-up project once the skies are familiar. "Star Watch" is a bit more user friendly for beginners. I still rate this work 5 stars and recommend it. The author has an excellent approach to finding and explaining celestial wonders.
A Valuable Reference for Beginning Amateur Astronomers.......2002-06-21
The well written content of this book aids the reader in star-hopping to find about 300 of the finest deep sky objects down to 60S declination, using excellent text, photos and sketches to describe their appearance.
The first five chapters contain excellent instructive material, followed by the seasonally ordered descriptive material. The reference material in the back includes useful listings of data on the objects described in the book, the constellations, the Messier Objects, an excellent Bibliography and useful addresses listing many web sites in both cases, in addition to a Star Atlas.
The unusual atlas included at the back is appropriate for the magnitudes of the objects described in the book. Unfortunately the author failed to include a crucial bit of information for each description by omitting a page reference for the location of the objects in the Atlas. Perhaps this will be corrected in a future edition of a book which will certainly merit further printings.
Despite this annoying defect, this is a good buy and a valuable tool for a beginning star observer. Although some of the objects described can be seen with good binoculars and a few with the naked eye, you will need at least a 100mm telescope or better to see many of them.
Book Description
Galaxies are perhaps the most popular of all visual targets that are sought after by visual observers. At present the only way to get up-to-date information, is to query various (often highly technical) speciality books or digging deeply into the Internet. This can be a time consuming and often frustrating task, as the data aren’t often compatible. This book satisfies the need for a modern, comprehensive review in combining the three major aspects: the physical background on the nature and data of galaxies, the relevant instrumentation and viewing techniques, and finally the targets and their individual appearance in telescopes of various apertures. To illustrate the latter, a comprehensive sample of galaxies, including quasars, groups and clusters of galaxies is presented. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical information guarantees successful observing sessions. The book could become a standard source on galaxy observing for all kinds of amateur observers, from the beginner to the experienced.
Customer Reviews:
A very good book.......2007-10-04
It is excellent writting, comprehensive, analytical and all subjects well presented and in the appropriate order.
most up-to-date, clearly structured reference book on galaxy observing.......2007-08-13
Wolfgang Steinicke was the leading author of the german "Praxishandbuch Deep Sky"(Kosmos 2004), which I like very much. So I started reading his new book on Galaxies with high expectations...and I was not disappointed :
I believe this is the most up-to-date, clearly structured reference book on galaxy observing - satisfying a very broad range of interests.
In three major sections, the authors not only address the needs of the most ambitious observers, but frequently add encouraging hints for beginners as well.
I recommend it A) as a reading book to gain a broader knowledge
and B) as an excellent planning guide when you want to observe MUCH MORE than the most commonly known galaxies.
SECTION I (70 pages) provides a basic understanding of the different types of galaxies and clusters, plus all those data that are important for visually observing them.
Chapter 1 explains different galaxy classification schemes, special cases and pecularities - then chapter 2 introduces pairs, groups and clusters of galaxies and shows their place within the hierarchy of the universe.
Chapter 3 presents a well structured overview for many different types of galaxy catalogs, containing galaxy data and nomenclatures. Advantages/disadvantages of these catalogs are discussed and their data quality is critically judged.
I strongly recommend to study this chapter 3 on catalogs first, because the same presentation structure is followed in the later SECTION III on observing programs.
SECTION II (33 pages) covers the Technical Aspects on observing galaxies.
Key technical instrumentation aspects are only summarized briefly (chap.4), but the Theory of Visual Observation (chap.5), together with practical recommendations on observing, star hopping and observing logs (chap.6) demonstrate the authors very broad experience in finding, identifying faint galaxies and documenting them.
SECTION III (110 pages) on "What to Observe? - The Objects" contains the largest, most valuable part of the book.
An instructive combination of "photo/textual" descriptions presents a large number of objects in the most "objective" way :
Not counting individual galaxies inside groups or clusters (though mentioned in the tables), a total of 500 objects are listed in data tables - following that same structure introduced in SECTION I. Each data table is immediately followed by a separate table with textual descriptions. Around 600 such descriptions are given, based on the visual appearance of each object with different instruments: 1. binocular (if possible),
2. medium aperture telescope(6-10"), 3. large telescope(13-20", sometimes larger).
All these observation descriptions in chapters 7 to 10 stem from renowned observers; e.g. Steve Gottlieb, Steve Coe, beside the authors.
Chapter 7 suggests a variety of Observing Programs, based on
a) M-, NGC/IC- or UGC- CATALOGS
b) Sky Areas and constellations
Chapter 8 suggests selection criteria which are dependent on the characteristics of the individual galaxy; i.e. by sorting them by their distance or by their appearance.
Chapter 9 concentrates on Groups and Clusters; i.e. by listing a) pairs and trios, b) small groups and chains, then c) clusters.
Chapter 10 finally suggests interesting targets "off the beaten path" or in the category of "ultimate challenge".
My reason for mentioning all these details is to demonstrate that this book is quite well organized - especially for all those readers with a minimal amount of patience and learning will.
There is only one unfortunate omission : Springer printed the 1.edition of this unique reference book without a page index !!!
However, after I emailed the author, he swiftly produced an INDEX OF ALL OBJECTS (xls), which can easily be downloaded
from the (Homepage Wolfgang Steinicke).
A Wealth of Information, Poorly Organized.......2007-04-17
This book is filled with a lot of really interesting information on galaxies. However, it is extremely disorganized. My copy of this book is now full of bookmarks to help me find information later. Why? This book has no index. Let me repeat that--this book has NO INDEX. This is an unforgivable sin for any reference book! Furthermore, the subtitle is "and how to observe them." There is not a clue about how to observe galaxies. Instead, the pictures of galaxies are taken through large professional telescopes that for the most part are not even identified. There are observer's descriptions for some galaxies, but most of these are through 20" and larger telescopes. Only a few descriptions are for telescope sizes you might be likely to own.
On the plus side, there are a number of pointers to more information sources, but often these are given in large, undifferentiated lists, instead of the authors making specific recommendations.
Some of the descriptions of galactic structure and evolution are extremely sparse. You won't find a clear definition of Seyfert galaxies, for example.
If you're looking for a definitive work on galaxies, this isn't it. But if you want to learn some interesting facts, you might find this book a fun read. You'll probably come away with some observing ideas as well, but stock up on bookmarks!
Amazon.com
Steve O'Meara has been called "the best visual planetary observer of modern times." The first to spot Comet Halley on its return in 1985, the first to determine the rotation period of Uranus, he now turns his amazing visual skills to the deep sky.
Charles Messier was one of the best comet hunters of the 1700s, with 12 comet discoveries to his credit. He was frustrated because he kept wasting time looking at fuzzy objects that turned out not to be comets. The list he kept and published of "things that aren't comets" turned out to be his ticket to immortality.
Amateur astronomers of all ages enjoy tackling the Messier catalogue members, because they represent a good sampling of what's "out there," and because finding them helps to hone observing skills. In a sense, the Messier objects are the testing grounds for budding skywatchers.
O'Meara's guide is unique in conveying his approach to observing: "It's an approach based on creative perception and on using the imagination to see patterns and shapes in the subjects seen through the eyepiece. It involves using not just your eye but also your mind's eye to associate those patterns and shapes with things that are familiar with you, to create pictures and even stories." With O'Meara as your docent, you will truly appreciate the art of the universe. --Mary Ellen Curtin
Book Description
If there were a canon for viewing the night sky, Charles Messier would be its author. The galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae cataloged by the famous comet hunter in the late 1700s are still the most widely observed celestial wonders in the heavens. They are the favorite targets of amateur astronomers, with such rich variety and detail that they never cease to fascinate. This book provides new and experienced observers with a fresh perspective on the Messier objects. Stephen James O'Meara has prepared a visual feast for the observer. Using the finest optical telescopes available for amateur work, he describes and sketches the view from the telescope as never before. There are new drawings, improved finder charts, and new astronomical data on each object, including findings from the Hubble Space Telescope. Expand your universe and test your viewing acumen with this truly modern Messier Guide. It is a must for budding night watchers. Stephen James O'Meara is a contributing editor to Sky and Telescope.
Customer Reviews:
Deep Sky Companions: The Messier Objects.......2007-09-10
Add this reference book to your collection and be ready to observe. Along with this addition Deep-Sky Companions: The Caldwell Objects (Deep-Sky Companions) and you can't miss.
A Beautiful Guide to Observine.......2007-03-28
The Messier Objects are one of the foundations of amateur astronomy (along with the planets and comets). The name comes from Charles Messier who was a comet searcher. To avoid confusion he created a catalog of some fuzzy objects that might be confused by other comet hunters as being potential comets. He listed 110 objects for comet hunters to avoid. He had actually discovered 41 of them, the others had been discovered by others but were in the list to avoid.
Today's amateur has access to equiptment far in advance of Messier's and these non-comets are among the most frequented things being observed. That's because Messier's objects include star clusters, nebula, as Mr. O'Meara says, the finest showpieces in the heavens.
In this book Mr. O'Meara illustrates the 110 objects with drawings and or beautiful photographs. Here is the Andromeda Galaxy (Messier 31), 300,000,000 stars, the light from whom began its journey to us 2.3 million years ago. Then, of course, there's M77, 47 million light years away and more than a little bit strange.
After showing all the Messier objects, Mr. O'Meara discusses (but does not show photographs) of twenty spectacular non-Messier objects that he considers to be his personal favorites. This book would be a great present for almost any amateur astronomer.
What a disappointment!.......2007-02-24
O'Meara starts this book out with real promise. Widely acknowledged as an expert observer, his efforts to set out and observe the Messier objects in detail (minimum 3 hours each) and sketch his impressions from a great dark-sky site sound impressive and exciting. After all, who wouldn't want to put their eyes up against the best? Better yet, it's well-known that it is easier to see something if you know exactly where to look for it and what it will look like. And the introduction leaves you hungering to explore these targets rather than punch them off a list in a few seconds.
But then O'Meara ruins it. He puts his own personal "interpretations" on the sketches, drawing bat figures or snakes over the objects - things that are only there in his imagination. For an experienced observer, it may be easy to draw the line between what is fancy and what is reality, but for someone approaching these objects for the first time, the only result is confusion and dismay. Do I look for that wispy segment or not?
A second version of the sketches would have been called for - one without the "extras." Instead, we're left with a book that had a lot of promise, but fails to deliver the very thing we're in need of - great, accurate sketches of the Messier objects as they appear in the eyepiece.
Seeing Messier objects with new eyes.......2007-01-10
After having read a few other books on the Messier Objects, I can confidently say that this one is a winner! Descriptions are both very helpful in preparing you for what to expect, if you have never seen a particular object before, but also provide new insight to those that think they have seen it all. The author describes subtle details, and guides you to persist on watching, until you can really see all that there is to see. After reading the descriptions, you will feel an urge to go to the field and see what you have been missing all the time!
The book also has a lot of historic comments, about Messier himself and the observations he did while compiling his list, that are both fascinating and intriguing to read. As for the drawbacks, I only wish the finder charts were more detailed. You will probably need a more detailed star map to locate the less prominent and obscure of these fine objects.Overall, I would warmly suggest this book to both new and experienced observers.
Making small scopes look good :).......2005-01-31
First of all I have to say that O'Meara is a brilliant writer and a superb visual observer. He manages to capture the spirit of observing and you feel like he is right next to you at the eyepiece when you read the book. But the defining thing about this book is the superbly detailed eyepiece impressions. Indeed he sees more through the eyepiece of a 4" TeleVue Genesis than most people through much larger telescopes. Its all about training ones eyes to see detail. Most of us are mere "peekers", just taking quick glimpses of objects. O'Meara encourages and inspires us to push our vision to the limit, to drink in the faint details of a galaxy's spiral arms. I for one have been inspired. Very highly recommended for visual observers.
Customer Reviews:
Should become a classic!!!.......2001-04-30
Using this book for over two years, I've found all the Messiers and learnt a whole lot from this book. The book starts off with briefly introducing the pre-requisites to stargazing, and the geometric estimation method for locating the deep-sky using a Telrad. The book also tells the story of Charles Messier, and the origins of the Messier Marathon. He then takes the reader on a tour of all the Messier objects. Since this book has its focus on the Messier Marathon, the sequence of the objects is based on his observing sequence during the Marathon. However, as Harvard points out, this book does not necessarily have to be used during a Marathon and can be used any time to locate any of the Messier objects. The finder charts proved to be extremely useful, and I found this book becoming the book I refer to the most. The advantage is, I don't have to flip through other star maps looking for the Messier objects I'd like to observe. Its all included in this book. Therefore, I used this book more than my star atlas while observing the Messier objects. There is a little bit of inaccuracy with some of the charts. For example, in the chart for finding M75, I found I had to extend a little further than the distance from the mouth of the teapot to the lower corner of its handle away from tau Sag. to get to M75. Perhaps it was my problem of not using a powered finder (only the Telrad), but I had to try 5 times before I was compelled to move my scope little further east and north when the dim glow of M75 slid into view. This situation is actually clearly demonstrated in any star atlas, M75 is definitely a little further than the estimate.(I did very careful measurements on a printout of a few star chart program and Harvard's estimation method got to 0.6 to 1 degree from M75 depending on the angle deviation from the gamma Sag. - tau Sag. line, so I'm guessing some people may have troubles) Nevertheless, this is a VERY minor complaint for Harvard's method is based on estimation. Getting as near to the object as possible with the simplest method is what matters. My suggestion to any similar situation is to use a star atlas beside this book too to help with objects that don't seem to show up on first or second attempt. Furthermore, if the object is not in view, do scan around a little (which Harvard did mention). In a real Messier Marathon, don't panic (as I did =) and keep in mind that the less detailed charts are mainly for estimation. Overall, an exceptional book, beautifully written and educating. A book that deserves to be on the bookshelves of all amateur astronomers!
A must-have for serious Messier searchers........2000-09-25
This is an extremely helpful book. I rate it among the very best for helping in your Messier Object search: At the April 2000 Messier marathon, I found 75 objects, and was on schedule to find 105, but I grew too tired to continue. On a recent star party in September, 2000, I found 45 objects before midnight, thanks largely to this book. Buy it while you still can!
The Guide for finding the Messier Objects.......2000-08-08
After trying run my first Messier marathon with charts that I had prepared myself, I wish I had had this book with me that night. I would have seen alot more. Using this book, I have able to locate many objects that I had not been able to find before with certainty.
This book is excellent resource that I now take along with my telescope to every star party. The charts and object sketches are well oriented to the practicing amateur astronomer. Also covered are telescope calibration, observing techniques, and site selection. The only drawback to this book that I have found so far has been that it is not printed on waterproof paper. So, I had to order another copy to cut up and laminate.
Best Intro Book to Finding the Messier Objects.......2000-07-11
This book is exceptional for the beginning backyard astronomer. I found 25 objects in one weekend alone using this book. I'm up to 95 objects total with no doubt in my mind that the book will allow me to find the remaining 15 objects. In dark skies, the Telrad finder charts work extremely well. Over a dozen times I have literally been able to line up the Telrad finder per the book's illustrations and look into the eyepiece and see the desired target. In light polluted areas, where I do most of my observing and where the Telrad is not quite as useful, the star charts in the book provide just the right detail to find the target by either star hopping with a conventional finder or moving along lines of constant declination or ascension relative to a known star. Well worth the low $20 price tag.
Excellent guide for the Messiers.......1999-12-16
this book is written with one purpose in mind-to get the reader(observer)through the Messier objects utilizing various, and well explained, star hopping techniques combined with in-scale drawings of the objects within their given constellations. It also has some very useful techniques for ligning up a telrad type instrument, calibrating the finder and eyepiece, as well as providing an observer's log for the objects and the Messier catalog. Great book and more than worth the money. Being an "advanced beginner" I have found its techniques easy to follow leading to some incredibly successful observations of these beautiful objects. I only wish it included the Caldwell Catalog, but that may have diluted its very narrow and detailed focus on the Messier objects. Highly recommended!
Book Description
Veteran comet hunter and eloquent popular astronomy writer David H. Levy takes amateur sky-watchers on a fascinating journey into deep space in this enthusiastic and informative survey of the many far distant yet observable objects in the night sky. Light years beyond our solar system, deep sky objects include such intriguing phenomena as red stars, double and triple stars, mysterious star patterns, globular clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and quasars. Designed to be accessible for even beginners, Levy's clear, elegant descriptions will guide astronomy buffs in any hemisphere and locale (light-polluted cities as well as dark countryside) to the wonders of our enormous universe. As the discoverer or codiscoverer of twenty-one comets, including the famous Shoemaker-Levy 9 that crashed into Jupiter in 1994, Levy has devoted many decades of experience to observing the night sky. Over the years he has located about 300 deep sky objects, of which the 111 "best and brightest" are featured in this book. Along with a finder chart, Levy offers a physical description and a discussion of each object's history and beauty. Proceeding from objects closest to our solar system to those farthest away, Levy gives readers an awe-inspiring glimpse into the structure of the cosmos. Complete with both color and black-and-white photos, plus many helpful illustrations, Deep Sky Objects is the ideal guide to the wonders of the universe for both experienced and novice star gazers.
Customer Reviews:
Good list; so-so book........2006-05-03
This book really can't decide what it wants to be, and feels like it's a few editorial rounds away from being a finished book.
The book has an odd overall structure, and the organization within chapters is a free-association mess of object descriptions, personal recollections, observing advice and seemingly whatever happens to cross Levy's mind.
It's frustrating because there are elements of a good book here, but as it stands it doesn't really work as an observing guide, reference book or personal memoir, despite trying to be all three.
The list of objects itself, currently available on the internet, is an excellent and useful list which could form the basis of an interesting personal observing program.
Veteran comet chaser teaches amateurs how to observe!.......2006-03-12
David Levy is a veteran comet discoverer - one of the most successful discoverers in history - and wants others to share in his personal achievement and joy in locating unusual deep sky objects. You don't have to live in the country to be able to observe distant objects: DEEP SKY OBJECTS: THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST FROM FOUR DECADES OF COMET CHASING can count city-dwellers among its astronomy fans, providing positions, magnitudes, history and best observation times to accompany a running commentary of the author's discoveries and excitement about his findings. It's this excitement which makes DEEP SKY OBJECTS unique in the world of amateur astronomy titles, pairing specifics on how and what to observe with a veteran comet chaser's exciting discoveries.
Catalog of objects that might look like comets.......2006-01-23
Perhaps the most famous astronomers of our time, Mr. Levy is one of the most successful comet discoverers in history (actually he's tied for third place in the number of comets found). His finds include the Shoemaker-Levy comet that crashed so dramatically into Jupiter. His formal education includes a degree in Englash. His astronomical activities came as a hobby. Who better to write a book aimed at the amateur astronomer?
This book is based on a list of objects visible in the sky that might be confused with comets. He began this list many years ago to avoid mis-identification as he searched for comets. Here he lists, describes, and usually photographs these items from deep into space. The objects are arranged from 'nearby,' that's say up to a few hundred light years away, to billions of light years.
I can't help but wonder what Galileo would have thought of this book as he spent his final years under house arrest for publishing a book saying that four moons orbited Jupiter.
Book Description
Here is a unique and fascinating reference book for every serious deep-sky observer! Entries for each of more than 500 deep-sky objects provide far more than the usual astronomical data - they also detail, in every case, the most interesting facts. Physical factors, astrophysical information, evolution, unusual features, the list is endless. The objects are all listed in NGC order, which were originally assigned in approximate order of location from west to east, convenient for reference because objects that can be seen on a given night will occur within a few pages of each other in the book. Astronomers can now get an insight into exactly what they are looking at, to add a new level of insight and enjoyment to deep-sky observing.
Customer Reviews:
A guide for the knowledgeable astronomer.......2005-02-08
At last. A Guide to telescopically observable deep-sky objects that also contains astrophysical information about each one all in one book.
This could replace hours of cross-referencing a variety of astronomical source books.
Especially handy for any owner of today's GoTo telescope, it is also useful for the starhopper, as it contains chart numbers for a couple popular star atlases likely to be used by amateur astronomers.
Other nearby objects are often only mentioned in the text for each object, so the book actually covers more than just 500 objects.
If I can fault the book at all, it is the lack of small-scale finder charts for some of the objects that are in crowded fields of objects. You will have to have charts of some sort to make sense of the fields in which these objects lie. Perhaps in a second edition.
There are many books for the amateur who wishes to expand beyond the basic 500 object lists, but there is a dearth of observing guides for the scientifically up-to-date amateur astronomer just expanding beyond the Messier list.
This is one, and I recommend it.
Don Pensack
Los Angeles
Book Description
A practical guide to binocular and small telescope observing.
Night Sky Atlas combines clear, accurate star maps with reliable and informative text. This is a highly practical atlas for beginning sky gazers using binoculars or a small telescope.
Sturdy binding makes it suitable for outdoor use. Cover flaps can be used as page-markers. The sewn binding allows the atlas to be opened flat. The star maps are drawn with black stars on a white background, allowing observers to pencil in their own observations. The high quality paper can withstand repeated use of an eraser.
The book begins by presenting the whole sky in a series of six maps, showing stars down to magnitude 5.5 -- all visible with binoculars or a small telescope. Opposite each map is a photo-realistic image that shows how the same portion of sky looks to the naked eye, allowing less-experienced observers to quickly find specific objects of interest.
The maps can be used for planning observations, navigating from one part of the sky to another and for a quick reference guide.
Other features include:
- Forty large scale constellation charts
- A full set of seasonal charts
- Maps of the Moon and the planets
- Deep sky maps identifying double stars, nebula and more.
A comprehensive index provides the location of information for all the night sky objects and features covered in the atlas.
The
Night Sky Atlas is the ideal portable reference for backyard astronomers.
Customer Reviews:
Very good first star atlas.......2005-11-24
This is a very nice first atlas. It starts with a introduction section which covers the basics on celstial movement, observation techniques, and a few pages on the planets and the moon (including 4 pages of charts on the moon's four quaters and 4 accompanying pages of descriptions of each). It then has a very nice sky atlas section with the left page showing a black star on white background atlas and the right page showing the same view with white stars on black and all markings removed. This is helpful for getting a good idea of what you'll see, but the stars are artifically enlarged to show magnitude differences so its not exactly what you'll see in the sky.
My one gripe about this atlas comes in the third and final section on individual constelations. Its very well detailed and uses a page or so per constelation with textual descriptions of various objects, a few photographs, and a finder chart. However, the charts are printed with yellow stars on blue background, which washes out quite horribly when used outside under a red light. A white light only fares slightly better. I've found that this section is best used indoors. You can use many available software pacakages to print finder charts that are more exact to what you're looking for and will display better outdoors.
Overall, a very good buy.
You NEED this book........2005-09-16
I have many Astronomy books, but this is one of my favorites. The atlas is a classic star chart of an area of the sky, and on the next page is a photo of what you can expect to see. No more looking at your star chart, and then looking UP to try to find what you're looking for. It's so cool, and makes finding deep sky objects (or whatever your fancy) much easier. The back of the book also shows each constellation, and has a list of interesting objects in each with pictures that are stunning. Lots of great reference data also. Highly recommended and a GREAT PRICE too !!!!
Book Description
Filled with concise descriptions and out-of-this-world photography, the
National Audubon Society Pocket Guide to Galaxies & Other Deep-Sky Objects is designed to be compact enough to literally fit into any star-gazer's back pocket. This streamlined volume contains: an easy-to-use field guide covering more than 70 deep-sky objects; a complete overview of the evolution of galaxies, nebulae, quasars, star clusters and other objects in space that make up our universe.
This pocket guide is packed with information; abundant color photographs and images capturing the magnificence of the stars that compose various deep-space phenomena; text detailing the different types of objects in space, specific names and cataloging of each space phenomena, information on measuring each object's distance and location in the sky and the minimal optical aid needed to observe a particular deep-space matter.
From casual star-gazers, budding astronomers to the more experienced, the
National Audubon Society Pocket Guide to Galaxies & Other Deep-Sky Objects is an excellent and convenient reference guide to bring along when skywatching.
Customer Reviews:
Pretty much useless as field/pocket guide.......2005-05-04
I bough this pocket book and haven't found useful even once. In Internet age, this book renders itself pretty much useless. The book mainly has one pages with color photo of one of the deep sky objects and a very dry short description on the other page. That's pretty much about it. You can find all these photos on Internet in much better resolution or in the software like TheSky just by clicking on object. The accompanied description is just dry numerical tid-bits printed in font that discourages reading it. There are no constellation maps. You can find much better quality and interesting history, significance and field notes on Internet. May be this is not the authors fault. The description is supposed to be limited to that tiny page, what else they can do?
Stunning Images of Deep Space.......2005-03-14
If you have ever wanted to know the difference between a barred spiral galaxy and an irregular galaxy, this is the book for you.
Beautiful photographs of these galaxies, and so much more, await you in this wonderful little book. It has served as a reference for me for several years now. Even with oodles more Hubble shots available these days, this book is still not dated.
Each photo is given a description as to type of deep-sky object it is (a spirial galaxy or an emission nebula, for instance), light years distance away from us, where in space it is located and a little data about the nature of itself.
Andromeda, the Pleiades, the Ring Nebula and much more await you in this little pocket book by the National Audubon Society.
Much recommended for the "space nut"!
A superb picture book of the cosmos........1998-10-20
Easy to read and even easier to look at, this little book is a giant. The photos are beautiful and their full-bleed format makes them look like little windows to the universe. If it's photos of the deep-sky objects you want, this book is the perfect place to start.
Book Description
Deep-sky observing - that's looking at the stars, nebulae and galaxies - is easily the most popular field for amateur astronomers. The big problem faced by non-professional observers is what to look at - what's visible at a paticular time of year. The Deep-sky Observer's Year is a month-by-month guide to the best objects to view. Objects are given a "star rating" according to how difficult they are to observe or image (i.e. photograph) with a particular size of telescope. The book includes many images produced by amateur astronomers, as well as photographs from NASA, ESA and ESO. There is also some background information about the objects that can be seen, along with lots of useful tips, hints, and resources (especially about what's available on the Internet) for deep-sky observers.
Customer Reviews:
Good, but has flaws.......2001-05-03
This book is a nice overview of some deep-sky objects, but has a number of flaws. Overall, I would say you should consider it as supplemental material only, not a primary reference. This is unfortunate, as a more thorough job of handling this topic would be extremely useful.
First, like most (if not all) books in this series, there is no index. This makes it difficult to try and cross-reference information on an object to other books or charts. I fail to understand why a book of this type would not have an index, as with modern word-processing software, they are easy to generate.
Second, at the beginning of each month, there is no table of objects giving catalog number, common name, constellation names and coordinates, as I would have expected. There is only a list of catalog numbers. The finder charts are skimpy, also.
Potential buyer's should be aware that almost half the book (first 108 pages out of 248)is introductory material on such topics as binoculars, telescopes, how to observe, etc. This material, while good (although all aperture sizes are metric, with no translation to inches), is not why I wanted the book. The sketches are nice, as it is always helpful to me to see eyepiece impressions, as opposed to photos.
Given the price, I would recommend one of the 2 volumes of the Night-Sky Observer's Guide as being a better use of the money, but as supplemental material, it may be useful.
Good, but has flaws.......2001-05-03
This book is a nice overview of some deep-sky objects, but has a number of flaws. Overall, I would say you should consider it as supplemental material only, not a primary reference. This is unfortunate, as a more thorough job of handling this topic would be extremely useful.
First, like most (if not all) books in this series, there is no index. This makes it difficult to try and cross-reference information on an object to other books or charts. I fail to understand why a book of this type would not have an index, as with modern word-processing software, they are easy to generate.
Second, at the beginning of each month, there is no table of objects giving catalog number, common name, constellation names and coordinates, as I would have expected. There is only a list of catalog numbers. The finder charts are skimpy, also.
Potential buyer's should be aware that almost half the book (first 108 pages out of 248)is introductory material on such topics as binoculars, telescopes, how to observe, etc. This material, while good (although all aperture sizes are metric, with no translation to inches), is not why I wanted the book. The sketches are nice, as it is always helpful to me to see eyepiece impressions, as opposed to photos.
Given the price, I would recommend one of the 2 volumes of the Night-Sky Observer's Guide as being a better use of the money, but as supplemental material, it may be useful.
Book Description
Field Guide to the Deep Sky Objects is a uniquely usable guide for observers. Following detailed descriptive summaries of each class of object, it includes extensive lists of deep-sky targets which are classified according to type of object:
- Stars (bright, coloured, double, triple, quad, multiple);
- The spectral sequence;
- Clusters;
- Globular clusters;
- Stellar associations;
- Stellar streams;
- Nebulae (emission, dark, reflection, planetary);
- Supernovae remnants;
- Galaxies (spiral, elliptical, irregular).
Each of these groups is organised by month of best visibility, and within that by ease of observing. Simply, this means that you can choose a class of object, and for any month of the year find an observing list that begins with easiest through to progressively more difficult targets!
Amateur astronomers of all levels of ability will find this book invaluable for its broad-ranging background material, its lists of fascinating objects, and for its application as "graded exercises" to improve practical observing skills while viewing many different types of deep-sky object.
Customer Reviews:
Good idea but not well done, sorry!.......2002-06-15
I have never read an astronomical book that contains so much duplicated information. Many facts appear several times in different places in the book for reasons that are far from clear. Tighter editing might have reduced the page count by 10 or 15% without lowering the value of the book.
Review and Suggestions.......2001-08-17
This is a useful addition to my growing library. However, the item arrangement takes some getting used to and anyone purchasing this book should read the introductory text in each chapter to better understand how Inglis has organized this volume before using it in the field. His text is very readable and the explanations useful for anyone who doesn't want to get immersed in a lot of technical detail.
One drawback for me is that Inglis mixes Northern and Southern Hemisphere objects in his lists. I intend to add some sort of notation to indicate this. Adding the common name of the constellation in which the object is located would be another worthy addition for those of us who are truly "amateurs".
If Inglis ever revises this book, I would humbly suggest that the chapters be arranged in halves -- one for northern hemisphere objects and one for the southern hemisphere.
Another feature of this book that could be either an advantage or a disadvantage (depending on one's perspective) is that grouping similar objects (eg. variable stars) together makes it really difficult to use this volume in the field if you want to observe many different types of objects. On the other hand, I have never done any field observation that consisted of looking at only one type of object (to compare and contrast etc.) and this book has motivated me to try this technique.
A practical field guide.......2001-05-29
This is one book which I will make sure is with me when I am with my telescope at a dark site. Organized by type of object and month(s) of best viewing, this book is an indispensible guide to the various deep sky objects visible, with their locations and which day they transit the meridian at midnight. Objects are grouped as stars, clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and faint/far away/invisible. This text goes beyond the Messier objects and has objects from various sources with descriptions as they would appear in most amatuer telescopes or binoculars.
This book does seem to be targeted at Northern hemisphere observers, as I do not believe any of the objects listed are south of 42 deg S, with the exception of stars.
exactly what I was looking for.......2001-05-18
I'll make this quick... I'm an ATM and an avid astro-buff.. I've always wondered what I *should* be seeing. This book clears up many questions and puts forth a practical collection of data describing what to expect to see with moderate telescopes up to 10 inches (dia) or so. - excellent format and very well organized - great detail - gives human description of objects in text - no false impressions by giving fancy color photos - feels like reading my own notes. If you like the title... you will like this book. Definetely a guide worth having!
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- The Dragons of Eden: Speculations on the Evolution of Human Intelligence
- The Finest Atlas of the Heavens / Der Prachtigste Himmelsatlas / L'atlas Celeste Le Plus Admirable: Harmonia Macrocosmica (Harmonia Macrocosmica of 1660)
- The Gods of Change: Pain, Crisis, and the Transits of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto (Arkana's Contemporary Astrology Series)
- The Landmarks of New York: An Illustrated Record of the City's Historic Buildings
- The Last Colony
- The Mechanical Universe: Introduction to Mechanics and Heat
- The Normans in Sicily: The Normans in the South 1016-1130 and the Kingdom in the Sun 1130-1194
- The Planetary System, Third Edition
- The Search for Life in the Universe (Third Edition)
- The Search for Life in the Universe (Third Edition)
Books Index
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Astronomy
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Deep-Sky Wonders (Stargazing)
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NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe
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