Product Description

There are two basic methods of recording astronomical images seen through the eyepiece of a telescope. Photography (these days, usually digital imaging with a CCD camera) is one, the other is sketching.

Astronomical sketching and drawing has a long and esteemed history. Many astronomers believe it is still unrivalled for recording and illustrating transient phenomena (such as TLPs) or for taking advantage of the fleeting moments of extreme clarity that result from the turbulent atmosphere through which Earth-based astronomers carry out all their observing.

Unfortunately, astronomical sketching and drawing is seldom taught as such, and is regarded by many amateur astronomers as the province of a talented few. This is not the case – the necessary techniques can be taught, just as portraiture and still-life drawing can be (and is) taught.

This book could become a classic.

Customer Reviews (4)

Solid resource for the astronomical sketch artist
Although I imagine a fair amount of the techniques and approaches in this book are covered in other books on sketching, the focus on astronomical targets is beneficial.The authors go over various targets from the moon to galaxies to star clusters both open and globular, and techniques from graphite pencil sketching to charcoal and colored pencil work.Very solid resource, and one of the only on the subject of astronomical sketching.I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to pursue sketching of the moon, planets, and other heavenly subjects.

What choice do you have?It's one of a kind.

Let's face it, not many people are into astronomical sketching.But for those who are this is THE book.I know of no other book quite like it.I've been to most of the web sites on astronomical sketching.They can be very helpful.In fact, I learned later that several of the web sites I found most helpful were by the authors of this book!Websites help, but, even the web sites are incomplete.Sketching is covered regularly in various astronomy magazines.Those articles are also helpful, but it would take years for them to cover the material covered in this book.If you want to try your hand at Astronomical Sketching, you need this book to get you started.

Great starters book on Astro sketching
Approaches to different subjects are well set out. Inclusion of some information on digitizing would be useful but internet web-sites are listed that provide some further discussion and instruction about that by the authors.Tips and techniques are spread throughout different chapters. Perhaps it would have been better to have them presented in one section but it's not a big issue.

Good book for advanced or beginner astronomers
I was already familiar with most of the material in this book. If you have any art training you probably already know the techniques. The strength of this book is the detail given on how to use art techniques to draw astronomical objects! Even if you know little about art it is detailed enough to get you started at a high level of sketching at the eyepiece. ... Read more

Product Description

This book is intended for amateur astronomers who are readers of Sky & Telescope magazine or similar astronomy periodicals – or are at least at the same level of knowledge and enthusiasm. In particular, those of us who have reached a point where enjoyment is fading because the challenges have run out will appreciate it, because it takes such people to the "next level" in observational astronomy.

It begins with teaching astronomers to use their most important astronomy tool, their eyes. Then it discusses how to select the right telescope – taking into account that everyone is unique – and shows readers how to set up and care for their instruments. Subsequent chapters take the readers on a tour of the solar system as they have never viewed it before… through their own eyes. We start close to home with the hidden treasures of the Moon, on to investigate the power of the Sun, incredibly hot Mercury, the subtleties of Venus, the changing surface of Mars, the outer solar system and then on into deep space. Each chapter includes a series of observing challenges that will entertain and push the reader to continually higher levels of achievement.

Amateur astronomers will learn, through this book, many of the same lessons that professionals learned as they conducted similar observations.

Customer Reviews (2)

easy to read
This is a easy book to read. well done.
alot of helpful info. I have learned a
few new things.A must read for anyone
starting out with stargazing..........

Observing techniques
I expected this book to be more detailed concerning human vision in observing thenight sky - i.e an update to Clark's book on Visual Astronomy of the Deep Sky. It is not really that, but does have many interesting observing exercises. I would rate it as good for the mid-level observer who has worked through some of the best and brightest. ... Read more

Product Description

The recent years have seen breathtaking progress in technology, especially in the receiver and digital technologies relevant for radio astronomy, which has at the same time advanced to shorter wavelengths.

This is the updated and completely revised 5th edition of the most used introductory text in radio astronomy. It presents a unified treatment of the entire field from centimeter to sub-millimeter wavelengths. Topics covered include instruments, sensitivity considerations, observational methods and interpretations of the data recorded with both single dishes and interferometers. This text is useful to both students and experienced practicing astronomers. Besides making major updates and additions throughout the book, the authors have re-organized a number of chapters to more clearly separate basic theory from rapidly evolving practical aspects.

Further, problem sets have been added at the end of each chapter.

Customer Reviews (2)

A "must have" for RA. business
this is one of the fundamental books you have to have in your library... if you are a "Radio Astronomy" guy (Engineer, astronomer,etc). However sometimes it can be a little bit complex (compared to its newest 5th edition), but still an excellent book.

One of the best introductions to the field
Although Rohlfs and Wilson have only made perfunctory changesbetween this and the previous edition of the book, it still stands asone of the best introductions to the field of radio astronomy.It still doesn't cover some topics (such as calibration techniques) as well as I would have liked, and Kraus' _Radio Astronomy_ (2e) does a better job (IMHO) on the mathematical details as well as specific applications.Because of its length, the topics of millimeter and submillimeter astronomy are not covered in as much as centimeter wavelengths.However despite all this, the book is highly readable for a student in the field, and is invaluable to have on one's bookshelf, or even to take observing (for those who only dabble in radio astronomy). ... Read more

Product Description
Astronomy on the Personal Computer provides the reader with a thorough introduction to the computation of celestial mechanics, which is of particular significance for carrying out astronomical observations. Covering everything from astronomical and computational theory to the construction of rapid and accurate applications programs, this book supplies the necessary knowledge and software solutions for determining and predicting positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, minor planets and comets, solar eclipses, stellar occultations by the Moon, phases of the Moon and much more. This completely revised edition makes use of the widely implemented programming language C++, and individual applications may be efficiently realized through the use of a powerful module library. The accompanying CD-ROM contains, in addition to the complete, fully documented and commented source codes, the executable programs for Windows 95/98/NT and Linux operating systems. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Astronomy (Pascal Style)
I was a little disappointed with the book's programming code in Pascal.I was hoping at least it was in a more modern language such as C++ or Java, however, the algorithms work well on the generic Pascal compiler.There are too many programs for the average person just to type in, so I suggest getting the book with the media included.Mine came with a 3 1/2" floppy disk (can you tell this was from the 90's).Most machines don't even have floppy disks any more.I had to put this in my older laptop with my floppy to transfer the programs to my jump drive.

Overall, I like the book, and I suppose for a few more dollars I can get these programs in the "modern languages".Thank you for reading this review.

Good C++ book for astromical calc
This book does not use c-like/c++ but true c++.It begins with Vec3D class hiding private menbers.I learn many things of objective astronomical calc from this book.

Exceptional value for money
What I appreciate about this book is that details of many aspects of astronomical computations are clearly explained together with extensively documented full C++ source code and references for further information. As a bonus, extensive star catalogues are supplied, for use with, for example, astrometry.

C++ is *not* my language of choice, but the authors seem to have done a masterful job of using C++ features well, while avoiding obfuscation. Initially at least, I am translating things as I go into Mathematica, as a check that I am understanding what I am reading.

All in all, for getting under the hood, I think Montenbruck and Pfleger provide exceptional value for money.

Good book
I`m very intresting this book (disk ... Read more

Product Description

Choosing and Using the New CAT will supercede the author’s successful Choosing and Using a Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope, which has enjoyed enthusiastic support from the amateur astronomy community for the past seven years.

Since the first book was published, a lot has changed in the technology of amateur astronomy. The sophistication and variety of the telescopes available to amateurs has increased dramatically. Computerized SCTs, Maksutov-Cassegrains, and most recently Meade’s new and acclaimed Ritchey-Chrétiens have come to dominate the market. That means that all amateurs considering the purchase of a new telescope (not only a SCT, and not just beginners) will benefit from this detailed guide. Choosing the right telescope for particular kinds of observation (or even for general work) is far from easy – but Rod Mollise gives invaluable advice and guidance.

Today’s commercially-made astronomical telescopes are more complex than ever, and a new owner will swiftly discover that the manuals shipped with these telescopes leave much to be desired. Further guidance is a must. Choosing and Using the New CAT provides the missing information in a friendly but authoritative fashion, including imaging the solar system and deep space with the CCD cameras, video, and webcams that have almost completely supplanted ‘film’ cameras.

Customer Reviews (11)

the comprehensive CAT guide
this is one of those books that no only expresses but achieves the aspiration to be a classic. for the reader who is relatively new to amateur astronomy generally, or new to the catadioptric (CAT) telescopes specifically, this book is as essential and useful as "norton's star atlas", "sky atlas 2000" and several deep sky observing guides besides.

although every chapter title is a play on the acronym cat ("Care and feeding of a CAT", "Inside a CAT," "Hacking a CAT", etc.) in a way that suggests a limited topic coverage, i found some amusement in trying to find a topic that *is not* discussed in this 335 page guide. collimation? a 5 page discussion. mandatory items, like flashlights or dew heaters? check. the use of a hartman mask for precise focusing? pages 294-95. how to deal with telescope dealers? yep. how to use a dark hood, and the importance of warm feet? it's in there. a review of telescope brands and models, astronomy software and a long list of astronomical dealer and web sites? oh yeah. i did finally stump him: there's no formula to compute an eyepiece true field of view using the star drift method (mollise gives the optical formula instead).

elsewhere i gave a negative review of another CAT volume in the patrick moore series because it nohow lived up to its title. with mollise the circumstances are just the reverse: until you pick up this apparently humble book, you'll have no idea how much useful stuff is in here.

essential reading before you buy a CAT telescope, and very helpful reading for every night that you use a telescope, no matter what kind it is.

Useful guidance on telescope buuying.
If you are new to astronmy, this book makes a good introduction to the interesting problem of telescope selection.The author's strong opinion in favor of catadioptric telescopes in obvious, but if you want one, this book will give you a lot to think about.

Excellent Source of Information for the amateur astronomer
If you are in the market for, or already own a catadioptric telescope, this is a must have. The author clearly explains the designs and ins and outs of a multitude of types of CATs (telescopes...not the cute fury ones). The book is written in clear and concise terms with a twist of down home southern wisdom and humor that would appeal to stargazers at any level of the hobby. "Uncle Rod", as Mr. Mollise is known to the online astronomy community is a wealth of knowledge on the subject of CATs and astronomy in general.He is respected and revered for his opinions.

A Must Read!
I had become familiar with "Uncle Rod's" wealth of experience from his entries on Cloudy Nights forums. Then I discovered his online "Used CAT" guide. Wow, what a lot of information for an equipment junkie or anyone interested in astronomy. Then the coup-de-gras, this updated guide on Cat scopes and almost every other topic of interest to an amateur astronomer! I have read every word several times over. If I had only read it BEFORE I whipped out the old credit card and bought that last scope trying to reach observing nirvana I would have saved a lot of money and frustration. I am a CEO of a popular educational publishing company and I know how much work and love goes into such a tome. It is extremely up to date and that is not easy in such a fast moving hobby.

Very Good guide
This is a very good guide for the persons that are thinking about buying a cat telescope since it covers most of the cats on the market todey.
It is also interesting for those that already owns a cat but wants to know more about cats in general, it also gives you lot of tips you can use to fully utilize the time when you are "out in the dark"
That the writer is higly knowlegebly about Cats and has lots of experience whit this telescope type shines throu and he writes in a way that everyone understands what he is talking about.
A must on every bookshelf ... Read more

Product Description
This book contains the proceedings of three general courses in astronomy and astrophysics at graduate level presented during the Eleventh Edition of the Special Courses at the National Observatory of Rio de Janeiro in 2006. The lectures cover topics on satellite atmosphere, low-mass stars and standard cosmology. ... Read more

Product Description

These proceedings contain four lectures presented at the X Special Courses, the Graduate School in Astronomy of the Observatório Nacional in Brazil. These annual schools started in 1996 and provide graduate students and post-docs with a broad view of selected topics in astronomy and astrophysics. Each year four specialists from different areas are invited to give a course of lectures in their field of research. This year, these courses cover planetary disks, globular clusters, dwarf galaxies, and cosmology.

Product Description
The long-awaited second edition of this well-received textbook gives a thorough introduction to observational astronomy. Starting with the basics of positional astronomy and systems of time, it continues with charts and catalogs covering both historically important publications and modern electronic databases. The book builds on a fundamental discussion of the basics of light and the effects of the atmosphere on astronomical observations. Chapters include discussions of optical telescopes, detectors, photometry, variable stars, astrometry, spectroscopy, and solar observations. This edition contains new discussions of measurements with CCDs and appendices give basic statistical methods, useful astronomical software and websites, and sources of accurate time-calibration signals. Observational Astronomy is the perfect textbook for upper level undergraduate or beginning graduate courses on astronomy. Examples based on real astronomical data are placed throughout the text. Each of the well-illustrated chapters is supported by a set of graduated problems and suggestions for further reading. ... Read more

Product Description
Galactic and Extragalactic Radio Astronomy is a fundamental text for graduate students and professional astronomers and covers all aspects of radio astronomy beyond the solar system. Each chapter is written by a renowned expert in the field and contains a review of a particular area of radio astronomy and presents the latest observations and interpretations as well as an extensive view of the literature (as of 1988). Topics covered include: galactic continuum emission, HII regions, the diffuse interstellar medium, interstellar molecules, astronomical masers, neutral hydrogen, the galactic center, radio stars, supernova remnants, pulsars, extragalactic hydrogen, radio galaxies and quasars, the microwave background, and cosmological radio sources. ... Read more

Product Description
Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs) are the state-of-the-art detector in many fields of observational science. Updated to include all of the latest developments in CCDs, this second edition of the Handbook of CCD Astronomy is a concise and accessible reference on all practical aspects of using CCDs. Starting with their electronic workings, it discusses their basic characteristics and then gives methods and examples of how to determine these values. While the book focuses on the use of CCDs in professional observational astronomy, advanced amateur astronomers, and researchers in physics, chemistry, medical imaging, and remote sensing will also find it very valuable. Tables of useful and hard-to-find data, key practical equations, and new exercises round off the book and ensure that it provides an ideal introduction to the practical use of CCDs for graduate students, and a handy reference for more experienced users. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

CCD Astronomy book condition
The book arrived in the condition stated.It took a little longer than I expected for it to arrive, but it did arrive in good condition.

every thing about learning CCDs
I loved it,... i though me EVERY thing about CCDs,...how do they work...and how to understand the results....

a very valuable book, entertaining too
For a graduate student who has not had an observational astronomy course, the process of self-teaching the essentials of CCD astronomy is not a smooth one.You really don't know what kind of things you have to worry about before going to a telescope!

Though this book does not cover comprehensively the topic of detection techniques in scientific contexts (too much for such a small book), it has an excellent, totally readable introduction to the basics of CCD detection in astronomy.The author obviously has been in the field for a long time, so his numerous anecdotes from his rich, past expericnes are entertaining as well as enlightening.It is such a short book but very satisfying, which is rare for a technical science book.

This book would make a perfect textbook or supplement reading for any decent undergraduate observational astronomy course.Highly recommended as the first reading for observers.

An essential reference
Steve is the master of the art of CCD photometry.This is an essential book for professional astronomers and amateurs alike. ... Read more

Product Description

This book contains everything an astronomer needs to know about binocular observing. The book takes an in-depth look at the instruments themselves. It has sections on evaluating and buying binoculars and binocular telescopes, their care, mounting, and accessories. In addition there is a selection of fifty fine objects to be seen with 50mm and 100mm binoculars.

The advantages of using both eyes for astronomical observing are many and considerable, largely because of the way the human brain processes visual information. This book enables the astronomer to maximize those advantages.

Product Description

The aim of the State of the Universe annuals is to provide an annual astronomy review suitable for the popular science level reader to be published every September in a format that will be suitable for, and appeal to, the Christmas market. The book will cover all major astronomical news on topics beyond the Solar System and place them in the context of the longer term goals of astronomers and astrophysicists around the world. The aim is to capture the excitement and vibrancy of modern astronomical research. This section also includes web links for all major news stories, providing a bridge between the public news stories and the actual research web sites.

Chapter 1 – ‘A Year in News and Pictures’, written by Martin Ratcliffe, appears every year and makes up the first half of the annual. It will present brief summaries of the major announcements, discoveries and news items from that year, with the major ones being explained in detail through later chapters written by invited contributors who are at the forefront of research in these fields. The January meeting of the American Astronomical Society each year will be the major source of astronomical news for the following year’s volume, giving access to potential authors and contacts with public information officers of major observatories, space centers, etc.

The invited contributions which make up the second half of the annual each year will cover a variety of topics and are written to appeal to a wide readership. These are written by leading astronomers or science writers. One feature introduced in the first volume, the overall review of the State of the Universe by Dr Jim Kaler will be retained for State of the Universe 2008. The set of appendices at the end of the book will include a list of launches of major astronomical observatories/satellites during the past year; a list of planned future astronomical satellites; basic data on all astronomical observatories currently in operation with web links for the reader who wishes to find out more.

Customer Reviews (3)

A look at the Skies
I bought this book as a gift. The recipient has had an interest in Astronomy for many years.
He found the book lovely to look at, interesting to read. A great addition to his personal library, where he can browse it over and over again. A good book for a novice and still a good book for someone more knowledgable.

Excellent Read
This is an excellent book if you are simply looking to update yourself on what's currently going on in the aerospace, astronomy, astrophysics, optics, etc. fields.It gives just enough information to enlighten one on the latest and greatest of these fields.However, if you're looking for a more in-depth look at the multiple topics presented in this book, you'll have to turn to supplementary materials (which this book does a good job of referencing so that you don't have to conduct in-depth supplementary materials searches yourself).It readslike a magazine full of editorials, and they are written by scientists and researchers who are renowned in their respective fields of research.

It is a bit redundant in places, as it covers some topics that were "cutting edge" in the previous volume, "State Of The Universe 2007."But that is to be expected, as many such topics can remain at the forefront of these fields of interest for years at a time.Nevertheless, there is plenty of new material, making it worth while to get "SOTU 2008" even if you have "SOTU 2007."

In summary, this book does exactly what it was intended to do - inform interested parties of what's going on at the forefront of the many astronomically-related fields in a clear and concise manner.

An Astrono0mers view
This book should be in the reading list of every educator who is involved in teaching Astronomy. Martin Ratcliff has collected in one publication information that would require many hours of research from the worlds leading authorities in each subject. I particularly liked the references given to each entry and have been able to contact via e-mail a number of the contributors to raise questions and gain further information.

A must in any library.

Frank Gear F.R.A.S.
Director/Presenter
NIAS Planetarium ... Read more

Product Description
This colloquium gathered for the first time astronomy and space scientists together with scientific editors, publishers and software producers involved in DTP publishing. Introductory talks set up the context; contributed papers shared experience and presented challenges to be met, needs to be satisfied and problems to be solved. Special sessions were held to homogenize procedures and standards in electronic publishing as well as assess the potentialities of this new technology in intelligent information retrieval. ... Read more

Product Description
This complete reference provides a wealth of practical information covering all aspects of amateur astronomy. Organized thematically for ease of use, it covers observing techniques, telescopes and observatories, internet resources, and the objects that can be studied. Those new to the field will find tips, techniques and plans on how to begin their quest, and more advanced observers will find useful advice on how to get more from their hobby. Michael E. Bakich obtained a bachelors degree in Astronomy from Ohio State University and a masters degree in Planetarium Education from Michigan State University.He has written numerous original planetarium programs, and gives lectures on astronomy to groups of all ages.He is also a tour guide to eclipses and astro-archaeological sites. Bakich has written two previous books: The Cambridge Planetary Handbook (2000) and The Cambridge Guide to the Constellations (1995), both published by Cambridge University Press. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Excellent book
The purpose of this book is to give someone just starting out in amateur astronomy a foundation from which to work.This book accomplishes that task very well.It covers the basics of a wide range of topics.The Author presents this material in a conversational style which makes it an easy read.While this book is very similar in purpose to Dickinson/Dyers's Backyard Astronomer's Guide, it doesn't go into as great a detail on most topics.If you are just starting out in amateur astronomy you should consider buying this book. Two additions I would have liked to have seen in this book were 1.) A section with starmaps, and 2.)A section on how to starhop with examples.These two items should be in any beginners book.

Good Book on Mediocre Paper
An excellent book that takes a unique approach to explaining the world of amateur astronomy.I use this book more as a reference than a door to beginning to understand the huge world of astronomy (Terence Dickinson in Nightwatch does that best).Has an excellent Equipment section (especially the filters area), great planetary info in the Solar System section, and very handy reference charts in the back of the book.

For the price of this book, you'd expect paper quality to at least be equal to The Backyard Astronomer's Guide (Dickinson, Dyer)-- but it isn't.The paper is cheap and really doesn't stand up well to the heavy page turning I have subjected it to - a minor gripe though.There is stuff in this book that is very hard to find elsewhere.Check it out in your local bookstore -- then buy it here at Amazon for a substantial discount off retail if you like it! ... Read more

Product Description
Comprehensive profiles of the 57 most important observatories in the world, including 10 space-based telescopes.

Great Observatories of the World is a comprehensive tour of the 57 leading observatories located in the United States, Europe, Chile, Australia, India, Japan and the vast reaches of space.

The book begins with a brief and engaging history of the telescope and observatories. It covers 36 Earth-based observatories and their history, mission, type of telescope and other observatory equipment, and significant discoveries.

It then features 10 space-based observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-Ray Telescope, which have been mounted on space probes to monitor some of the universe's most mysterious events.

The final section covers 11 observatories of the future, including both Earth-based and space-based telescopes, and how partnerships between nations and private institutions fund ambitious projects of unprecedented size and responsiveness.

The book also provides fascinating information on:- Spectroscopy and radio astronomy- The effects of atmosphere on astronomy- Coronagraphy and solar observation- Astronomy careers and training- Locations and websites of the world's 100 largest observatories.

Great Observatories of the World is profusely illustrated with photographs of the observatories as well as dramatic images of the universe they explore. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good book, but...
This book had the potential to be great. And its a great book for the observatories that are covered. But the omission of some of the really GREAT observatories was a bit of a disappointment to me. There is about 3/4 of a page on Palomar. And even that is somewhat inaccurate.

If you're looking for Palomar info, get "Perfect Machine" by Florence. A great read...

Better titled "Some Observatories of the World"
OK, it's a good-looking book with lots of great shots of interesting research observatories around the world.My great disappointment is the near-complete absence any mention of the Palomar Telescope, except for a brief mention in the introduction. Or Kitt Peak for that matter.Or any number of architecturally important observatories. I can't explain how they chose the contents of their book, or why they devoted an entire section of the book to telescopes that haven't even been built yet.

Great pictures and overall descriptions; lots of numeric errors
This book is fun to read, and a lot can be learned from it, but beware of the numeric errors: do not trust dates, sizes, distances. Common errors include: billion sometimes means 10^9 and sometimes 10^12, distances to galaxies are completely wrong (e.g. 10 light years to M82), use of thousand instead of thousandths, and multiple others.

A "coffee table" book for lovers of big telescopes
This book is an indulgence for those of us fascinated by big telescopes. It includes short discussions of each of the world's most important observatories, with brief technical interludes on topics like spectroscopy and adaptive optics. But this is not a book to read, it is a book to browse through, look at the pictures, and sample the text. The text certainly has its errors, such as substituting "millions" for "billions" in comparing the cost of space telescopes, and placing the date of the 3m Shane telescope as 1979 (it was competed in 1959 and renamed after Shane in 1977.) But we can overlook errors like this in a book designed for voyeurs. If big telescopes turn you on and you have a few extra dollars available, you'll probably like this book! ... Read more