"Ice and Fire: Great Comets to Come" explores the anticipated arrival of Comet C/2012 S1 (ISON) and its significance in modern astronomy. The book discusses the origins and nature of comets, guides skywatchers on observing and recording them, and highlights the contributions of amateurs and professionals in cometary discoveries. It includes historical illustrations and practical observation tips.
Mars captivates both amateur and practical astronomers with its striking red color and visible weather phenomena. Through commercially made telescopes, observers can explore its dusty surface markings, brilliant polar ice caps, and dynamic atmospheric conditions. The planet's features exhibit seasonal changes, such as the cyclical growth and shrinkage of polar caps, the formation of clouds, and the occurrence of massive dust storms that can obscure large areas. This makes Mars a fascinating subject for study and observation.
Advances in computer technology have led to the development of "cybersketching," a technique for creating observational astronomical sketches and detailed scientific drawings with digital tools. This book serves as a comprehensive guide to these innovative methods, highlighting the integration of modern equipment in the art of astronomical illustration. It is essential for anyone looking to enhance their skills in this evolving field.
Take a trip around the solar system and out beyond the stars with this comprehensive guide to the universe. From the big bang to the future of space travel, this book takes readers on an intergalactic journey of discovery.
Venus and Mercury have long been regarded as difficult targets for amateur observers, but advances in commercially-made telescopes have brought them within the skills of observers of only moderate experience. Peter Grego’s fascinating book presents an up-to-date, detailed description of the history and geology of the so-called inferior planets, and provides the latest, most useful advice on observing and recording them with commercially-available telescopes and cameras. The book also offers a wealth of detailed practical information on every aspect of observing, from safely targeting the two planets, through visual observing, to sketching and electronic imaging.
This revolutionary new book is written for practical amateur astronomers who not only want to observe, but want to know the details of exactly what they are looking at. The Moon is the most commonly observed of all astronomical objects. This is the first book to deal equally with the Moon itself - its formation, geology, and history - as well as the practical aspects of observation. The concept of the book - and of the series - is to present an up-to-date detailed description of the Moon, including its origins, history, and geology (part one); and then (part two) to consider how best to observe and record it successfully using commercially-available equipment. The Moon and How to Observe It is a mine of information for all levels of amateur observers, from the beginner to the experienced