Astronomy The Complete Manual brings you everything you need to know to view the wonders of the night sky. From the basics such as setting up a telescope, reading star charts and using binoculars, through to star hopping, these guides will help you learn all the essential techniques. Whether you want to view Andromeda, the Galilean moons, meteor showers or craters on the moon, we'll tell you where to look and what to look for. Featuring: Astronomy essentials - Choose the right telescope and get all the equipment you need. Get started - Top tips for your first night and learn how to star hop. Seasonal guides - See what's in the sky all year round. What to observe - Guides to help you find the most incredible night sky sights.
Astronomy The Complete Manual
Astronomy essentials • Did you know you can see a galaxy 2½ million light-years away with your unaided eyes? Craters on the Moon with simply a pair of binoculars? Countless wonders await you on any clear night. Learn the essentials to help you take the first step toward a lifetime of cosmic exploration and enjoyment.
Introduction to astronomy • Ever wanted to explore the night sky but don’t know where to start? Our beginners’ guide is here to help
Four naked eye sights • Discover four space objects you can see without any equipment at all
Choosing the right telescope • Get the best start in amateur astronomy by buying the right telescope for your needs
Refractor telescopes • Refractors offer fantastic views of the night sky
Reflector telescopes • The reflector telescope is an amazing instrument. But how they work?
Dobsonian telescopes • There is a lot of misunderstanding about Dobsonian telescopes; what they are and what they can do. This should help clear it up…
Cassegrain telescopes • One of the most popular telescopes for the more serious amateur astronomer
Which is the right mount for me? • Whether you’re a novice or experienced astronomer, the correct mount makes all the difference
Choosing an eyepiece • You can’t look through a telescope without an eyepiece
Selecting the right binoculars • Binoculars come in all shapes and sizes, so which ones are best for astronomy?
Spotting scope astronomy • These compact scopes offer a cheap alternative to telescopes for basic astronomy
Getting started • Astronomy can be a fascinating pastime, whether you have a substantial telescope, or are a beginner observing with the naked eye. Discover the excitement of spotting planets, star clusters, and nebulae with your own eyes.
Using a sky chart • How to find your way around a map of the stars
Navigate the night sky • Use celestial co-ordinates to find your way around the night sky
Measuring magnitudes • Celestial objects have varying levels of brightness – just how is it measured, and what does it mean for you?
First night: what to do • Top tips for your first foray into the field
10 tips to minimise light pollution • If you do live in or near a town or city you know the effects of stray light dimming down and ruining your view of the stars. Here are some tips to help…
20 amazing amateur discoveries • Be inspired by some of the fantastic discoveries made by amateurs over time
Reporting a discovery • Our universe is a vast treasure trove of new objects to be found. But what do you do if you think you’ve made a discovery? We take you through the steps to successfully report it
Best astronomy apps around • Essential space-based mobile apps to inform you on the go
Operate a telescope remotely • Controlling a large telescope – as far out as Australia or Hawaii – from the comfort of your very own home has never been easier
Seasonal guides • One of the...
