Since it was first published in 1968, this reference book has enjoyed enormous popularity as a handbook for amateur observers of the southern sky. Five introductory chapters discuss briefly the various types of objects available for study. They are followed by a table and descriptions of over 1000 objects between the South Pole and 50N declination, each of which was observed by the author. An addendum lists a further 80 objects visible to more northerly observers. There is also a valuable chapter on equipment and observing for amateurs.
The Caldwell Catalogue, compiled by the late Sir Patrick Moore (1923–2012), has delighted amateur astronomers worldwide since its publication in 1995. Twenty years on, Stephen James O'Meara revisits his guide to these 109 deep-sky delights, breathing new life into them and the 20 additional observing targets included as an appendix. This second edition retains O'Meara's detailed visual descriptions and sketches, accompanied by stunning new images taken by amateur photographer Mario Motta and observations by Magda Streicher. The astrophysical descriptions have been updated to account for the many advances in our understanding of the objects, not least due to an armada of space-borne observatories and the new technologies used in large ground-based telescopes. Ideal for observers who have completed the Messier objects and are looking for their next challenge, Deep-Sky Companions: The Caldwell Objects is a fitting tribute from a renowned visual observer to one of astronomy's most famous personalities.
There is a vast range of astronomical equipment currently available to the amateur astronomer. This handbook presents the variety of telescopes, binoculars and accessories on the market, to help the amateur make an informed choice when buying equipment. All selection criteria are taken into account, including level of experience, budget, and observation site. Indispensable to those with a passion for practical astronomy, this handbook will help the complete beginner making his first purchase, and provide advice for the more experienced amateur wishing to upgrade his equipment.
This superb, all-purpose star atlas is the first of its kind devoted to observing the Herschel objects with binoculars and telescopes. It displays over 2500 of the most visually-attractive star clusters, nebulae and galaxies that were discovered by Sir William, Caroline and Sir John Herschel, and is a must-have for stargazers who want to explore these fascinating objects. Covering the entire sky from the North to the South Celestial Pole, and showing all 88 constellations, it is also a general sky atlas showing variable, double and multiple stars, and the Milky Way. Written by experienced observer James Mullaney and illustrated by renowned celestial cartographer Wil Tirion, this is a magnificent 'celestial roadmap' to some of the finest deep-sky showpieces. Spiral bound and printed in red-light friendly colors for use at a telescope, with color-coded symbols for easy recognition and identification, this is an all-purpose observing reference for all amateur observers. Additional resources, including a target list ordered by Herschel designation, are available to download from www.cambridge.org/9780521138178.