The Stargazer's Handbook

by Giles Sparrow (Author)

• Used

  Hardcover
  2008

  $4.78

• Used

  Paperback
  2010

  $3.52

  From the craters of the Moon to the far reaches of Orion, The Stargazer's Handbook will enable you to explore space without leaving the comforts of Earth. All you need are a pair of binoculars and a clear night sky to experience the wonders of the universe. This book will take you on a journey through space, beginning with our own moon and neighbouring planets before exploring the fascinating sights of deep space - from hypergiant suns and stellar nurseries to blazing nebulae and swirling galaxies. Each star, planet or constellation is fully illustrated and accompanied by an annotated star map, as well as close-up images that zoom in on areas of interest. Featuring up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, monthly sky maps for both northern and southern hemispheres, history and mythology of all 88 constellations and the rationale behind the names of stars and constellations, The Stargazer's Handbook will fully equip you with the tools to navigate - and understand - the night sky. Contents include: The celestial sphere, Circumpolar stars, Equatorial stars, Observing the Solar System, Monthly sky guide, Constellations: Ursa Minor, Cassiopeia, Hercules, Coma Berenices, Aquila and Scutum, Hydra, Capricorn, Eridanus, Caelum and Columba, Puppis and Pyxis, Tuscana, Phoenix and Indus, Dorado and much more.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2008

  $4.78

  From the craters of the Moon to the far reaches of Orion, explore space without leaving the comforts of Earth. Written for the astronomical newcomer, you don't need a personal Hubble Telescope and a degree in astrophysics to get the most from this book: all you need are a pair of binoculars and dark night skies. Part one painlessly introduces the newcomer to the celestial sphere, explaining the basics of astronomy from coordinate systems to naming conventions. Part two moves into the solar system, exploring the moon before moving on to Mars, Jupiter and its moons, Saturn and its rings and beyond. Part three moves into deeper space, exploring all 88 constellations of the night sky, charting their mythology and history as well as investigating the latest scientific discoveries. Here you will find some of the most wonderful sights in the universe: hypergiant suns, stellar nurseries, blazing nebulae and swirling galaxies.Each constellation is introduced with a photorealistic portrait twinned with a clearly labelled and annotated star map on the opposite page. Further photographic spreads and close-up star maps zoom in on areas of remarkable interest. Finally, part four contains monthly sky maps for both northern and southern hemispheres, which used in conjunction with the previous chapter will guide your viewing and help you to navigate the night sky with ease.