The Observer's Guide to Astronomy: Volume 2

Book Overview

How can you find new minor planets, comets and novae? How can you use photoelectric detectors to derive the temperatures of stars? And how can you predict future eclipses and occultations of stars by minor planets? The questions asked by serious amateur astronomers are answered in this authoritative and wide-ranging guide, first published in 1994. For each topic, sound practical methods of observation and the scientific background are given to lead you to better observations. Guidelines also show you how to record and catalogue your observations using the recognised professional terminology and classification schemes. From the simplest pencil drawings of the moon to observations of the most distant galaxies with state-of-the-art CCD cameras and photoelectric photometers, this guide is packed with practical tips for all types of amateur observations. It will develop the observational skills of the keen novice and satisfy the more demanding needs of the experienced amateur astronomer.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521458986
• ISBN13: 9780521458986
• Release Date: November 1994
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 572 Pages
• Weight: 2.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.9" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Excellent book on making scientific observations

This two-volume work (vol 1 on the solar system, vol 2 on everything else) is indispensible in learning how to make scientifically useful observations with modest or expensive equipment. Comprised of separate articles on specific subjects, like "Spectroscopy", "Double Stars", "Jupiter", or "Photometry", each section delves deeply into how to make accessories or observations that are of scientific value. It is incredibly detailed. My only detraction is that the text is translated from the French and once in a while the text can be confusing (especially the description of the "V" micrometer in the double star section which, in my opinion, is nearly unintelligible).