David Levy's Guide to Variable Stars

by David H. Levy

Book Overview

Found throughout the universe, variable stars are fascinating objects to observe. Their brightness changes over time and they can easily be seen with even the most basic equipment. David Levy explains how to begin electronic (or CCD) observing, as well as how to observe variable stars through a small telescope or binoculars. Featuring a section on Southern hemisphere stars, this book covers various types of objects that can be observed by amateur...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521608600
• ISBN13: 9780521608602
• Release Date: January 2006
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 276 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.9" x 9.6"

Customer Reviews

Good Intro To Variable Stars

A nice intro to variable star observing. Levy writes in an accessible, easy to read style and his "targets" are easy to find. I've always been curious about what some people called the "cosmic antics" of variable stars so I bought the book, read a few chapters and went hunting. I've observed a few stars for a few nights and though not sure if this is for me, am glad I have the book and a little more understanding about variable stars. Exactly what I was looking for and I can rely on Levy to guide me deeper into the realm of variable star observing should I wish to pursue the practice.

Previously published as

Execpt for mention of the isbn, there is little indication that this is the second editon of the previously published book under a different title. Observing Variable Stars: A Guide for the Beginner See the reviews for more on this book. What has changed with this edition is an updating of the earlier with a new chapter on CCD photometry. Also added is a section on Clyde Tombaugh and TV Corvi (a cataclysmic variable star). Missing from this new edition is an anectdote about a bet Levy made over SS Cygni (another cataclysmic variable). Otherwise, execept for a slight change in layout and smaller text size this is essentially the same book as the aforementioned "Observing Variable Stars". Those like myself who would (in my case did) purchase this believing it to be more or less different in content than Levy's earlier book might want to take note. But make no mistake, whichever edition you get, this is an excellent and inspiring guide to the newbie variable star observer. One last piece of advice. Whatever book on variable star observing you get, you should go to the official AAVSO website to obtain the latest, most accurate comparison star charts to use. http://www.aavso.org/ Some, such a the charts for the star R Leonis (which I was trying out from his book) have had the magnitudes of the comparison stars revised since the publication of even this updated edition of the book.