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 specialties 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 catalog of interesting deep-sky objects is specifically tailored for observers in suburban areas affected by light pollution
Contents
Preface, Part I. Amateur Astronomy: 1 Using this book effectively; second Observing sites and conditions; 3 The Moon, the Sun, and eclipses; 4 The planets, 5th Comets, asteroids (minor planets), and artificial satellites; 6 Constellations; 7 Stars - identification, nomenclature, and maps; 8 Stars - physical properties; 9th Double and multiple stars; 10th Variable stars; 11 Cluster, nebulae, and galaxies; Part II Celestial Objects for Suburban Telescopes: 12 Celestial objects for suburban telescopes; 13 The January-February sky (RA 6h-10h); 14 The March-April sky (RA 10h-14h); 15 The May-June sky (RA 14h-18h); 16 The July-August sky (RA 18h-22h); 17 The September-October sky (RA 22h-2h); 18 The November-December sky (RA 2h-6h) and Part III. Appendices: A. Converting decimal minutes to seconds; B. Precession from 1950 to 2000; C. Julian date, 2001-2015.
Reviews
'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.' 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
