Our systems are now restored following recent technical disruption, and we’re working hard to catch up on publishing. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Find out more

Recommended product

Popular links

Popular links


Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes

Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes

Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes

Practical Amateur Astronomy Volume 2
Volume 2:
Michael A. Covington, University of Georgia
January 2007
2
This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.
Adobe eBook Reader
9780511257834
$60.99
USD
Adobe eBook Reader
exc GST
Paperback

    Based on field notes made by the author during his own career as an amateur astronomer, this unique guide covers both the traditional and novel approaches to studying the night sky. In addition to the more standard techniques, it discusses the latest modern resources available to today's astronomer, such as personal computers, the Internet, and computerized telescopes. It includes practical advice on aspects such as site selection and weather; provides the reader with detailed instructions for observing the Sun, Moon, planets, and all types of deep-sky objects; and it introduces newer specialities such as satellite observing and the use of astronomical databases. The book concludes with detailed information about 200 stars, clusters, nebulae, and galaxies, suitable for viewing with modest-sized telescopes under suburban conditions. Written to complement How to Use a Computerized Telescope, this book will also appeal to astronomers with more traditional equipment.

    • Designed as a modern handbook for a new generation, it places strong emphasis on computers, the Internet, new data sources, and computer-controlled telescopes
    • Where appropriate, maps in the book are mirror-imaged to match the view in 80% of modern telescopes
    • The catalogue of interesting deep-sky objects is specifically tailored for observers in suburban areas affected by light pollution

    Reviews & endorsements

    'It is clear that the author has carried out a tremendous amount of personal observation and anyone working through the list will end up with a good knowledge of the night sky.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

    'As an observing guide, Celestial Objects for Modern Telescopes is an excellent choice for those starting off in observational amateur astronomy and even for others with limited observing experience.' Astronomy & Space

    ' … very well written … will be of greatest use to absolute beginners and visual observers owning LX200 Autostar and NexStar telescopes.' Journal of the British Astronomical Association

    See more reviews

    Product details

    January 2007
    Adobe eBook Reader
    9780511257834
    0 pages
    0kg
    90 b/w illus. 16 tables
    This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.

    Table of Contents

    • Preface
    • Part I. Amateur Astronomy:
    • 1. Using this book effectively
    • 2. Observing sites and conditions
    • 3. The Moon, the Sun, and eclipses
    • 4. The planets
    • 5. Comets, asteroids (minor planets), and artificial satellites
    • 6. Constellations
    • 7. Stars - identification, nomenclature, and maps
    • 8. Stars - physical properties
    • 9. Double and multiple stars
    • 10. Variable stars
    • 11. Clusters, nebulae, and galaxies
    • Part II. Celestial Objects for Suburban Telescopes:
    • 12. Celestial objects for suburban telescopes
    • 13. The January-February sky (R.A. 6h-10h)
    • 14. The March-April sky (R.A. 10h-14h)
    • 15. The May-June sky (R.A. 14h-18h)
    • 16. The July-August sky (R.A. 18h-22h)
    • 17. The September-October sky (R.A. 22h-2h)
    • 18. The November-December sky (R.A. 2h-6h)
    • Part III. Appendices: A. Converting decimal minutes to seconds
    • B. Precession from 1950 to 2000
    • C. Julian date, 2001–2015.
      Author
    • Michael A. Covington , University of Georgia

      Michael Covington is one of America's leading amateur astronomers and the author of Astrophotography for the Amateur (0521641330).