Product Description

An essential reference tool for both beginning and veteran sky observers. Drawing on decades of stargazing experience, the authors suggest what equipment to buy and what to avoid, describe observing techniques, and explain how to hunt down the most interesting celestial objects. Each chapter is illustrated with the latest, breathtaking astrophotography.

This companion is broken down into three parts: "Equipment for Backyard Astronomy", "Observing the Celestial Panorama" and "Astrophotography". It focuses on the practical aspects of astronomy.

Among many astronomy subjects, the authors offer advice on how to contend with light pollution, and how to take successful and impressive color photographs of galaxies and nebulas (with or without a telescope). Each chapter is written in clear, jargon-free yet detailed.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1940369 in Books
• Published on: 1994-01-01
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 298 pages

From Library Journal
Despite the book's title, there is very little about astronomy here, i.e., lists of constellations, star charts, night sky maps, or details about planets, stars, and galaxies. However, there is a wealth of information about the equipment used in astronomy, including prices, consumer-type information, advice on when to use and when not to use binoculars, telescopes, cameras, film, lenses, filters, and other items for the amateur astronomer. Four chapters, though, concern the observation of the solar system and deep space objects. There are also several chapters discussing the photographing of all types of astronomical phenomena. Though cost may deter small-to-medium-sized libraries, there is much information here for the experienced amateur, and some useful information for the beginner as well. (Illustrations and index not seen.)-- Robert Ellis Potter, Dunedin P.L., Fla.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review
Lively, accessible style; is comprehensive; and is lavishly illustrated with hundreds of photographs, diagrams... highly recommended for any library. (Mark Wilson American Reference Books Annual, Volume 35 2004)

This all-encompassing reference provides practical advice. (Science News 20030104)

One of the most attractive practical astronomy works ever produced. (Russ Francis Monday Magazine 200301)

Excellent introductory text ... completely revised from the 1991 edition, and it is lushly illustrated in color throughout. (Ursula Ellis E-Streams, Vol. 6, No. 4 200304)

Few books capture the spirit of the hobby so well ... the simple joy of watching the universe go by. (American Scientist 200308)

Recommended for all libraries and for experienced or inexperienced amateur astronomers. (A.R. Upgren Choice 200306)

Big colorful user-friendly book ... This book is your passport to the stars. (David Aguilar Sky and Telescope 200305)

Indispensable tool for any serious naturalist who wants to understand and experience the full expanse of the world and universe. (Pierre R. Gauthier Canadian Camera 20030201)

Its nontechnical language makes astronomy an avocation accessible to everyone. (Library Journal 20031015)

Crammed with practical information that should help you become a better observer, and have fun doing it. (Craig Tupper Astronomy 20080914)

This book is a real treat for the eyes. It's loaded with colorful photographs, graphics and information boxes. (John McPhee Halifax Chronicle-Herald 200411)

I highly recommend this volume for most amateur astronomers and all libraries. (John O. Christensen Science Books and Films 20081003)

Here's the ultimate resource for anyone who's thought of following up on an interest in astronomy. (Linda Turk Chronicle-Journal (Thunder Bay) )

More than any other guide to backyard observing, this excellent book focuses on equipment. (Astronomy )

With over 500 color photographs and illustrations, this book is a valuable, beautiful and user-friendly astronomy reference. (Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin, Lunar an )

If you're bewildered by the choice of astronomy equipment out there, this book will help immensely. (One-Minute Astronomer.com )

One of the best books to guide amateurs. (Tracey Pitch Anchorage Daily News )

David Aguilar, Sky and Telescope 08/2003
Big colorful user-friendly book ... This book is your passport to the stars.