Philip's Practical Astronomy

A comprehensive and indispensable guide for the beginner observer. Star charts and illustrations by leading map-maker Wil Tirion. Easy-to follow instructions on finding your way around the night sky. Includes coverage of comets, planets, stars and deep sky objects. Full colour throughout, with more than 150 illustrations.

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A fully revised edition of the popular Philip's Practical Astronomy, a classic introduction to observational astronomy, updated to include telescopes and accessories available in 2006, as well as planetary and solar eclipse tables through to 2019.Storm Dunlop's straightforward and informative text explains how to observe all kinds of celestial objects, from the planets and comets in our Solar System to intriguing deep-sky objects in the Universe beyond.The book is organized in two parts:'Beginning Astronomy' provides the essential information on how to observe, whether with the naked eye, binoculars or a small telescope; where and when to look; how to find your way around the sky by 'constellation-hopping'; how to use star maps and planispheres; and how to record your observations with drawings and photographs.'Exploring the Sky' looks in more detail at all the objects the amateur can view, from aurorae and meteors (shooting stars) to the Moon, Sun, planets and comets, and beyond to stars, nebulae, the Milky Way and other galaxies.The book is illustrated with some spectacular colour photographs as well as clear and informative diagrams and star charts.The author Storm Dunlop is based in East Wittering, near Chichester, England. Wil Tirion, the celestial cartographer, lives in the Netherlands. They have collaborated on numerous astronomy reference books. Storm has also contributed to numerous other publications including Philip's Astronomy Encyclopedia and Norton's Star Atlas.Wil Tirion is the most highly regarded cartographer of celestial maps and charts in the world today. His stars maps have appeared in Philip's Atlas of the Universe and Philip's Astronomy Encyclopedia.