Beginners' Books
NEWTonkin, Stephen: Discover the Night Sky through Binoculars
A systematic guide to Binocular Astronomy
Discover the Night Sky through Binoculars is for the beginning amateur astronomer (or anyone else) who has been given the advice to "start with binoculars", and wants further guidance on how to go about it. Anyone who follows this year-long systematic approach will acquire a sound basic knowledge of the night sky (as seen from northern temperate latitudes) and will gather useful snippets of astronomical miscellany along the way.
Reader comments:
"I find this book a true pleasure to read – information is presented in a way that both new observers and experienced astronomers can appreciate... the myriad of great objects that are in this book one will come to again and again. The seasonal targets are well thought out, and useful for virtually anyone to find. Also an excellent resource for those doing public star parties wanting some great “eye candy” to show off the night sky..."
"I think it is fantastic. Easy to follow and an ideal book to accompany every binocular and small telescope session. It really is very readable."
"Naturally, a good intro for those starting off, but I would also say a useful reference as well."
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(Print Edition)
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(Print Edition)
Consolmagno, Guy & Davis, Dan: Turn Left at Orion
The new edition of this excellent book,
packed with viewing tips and clear instruction. Also realistic drawings of what
you can expect to actually see.
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Gribbin, John: In Search of the Big Bang
The best introduction to Big Bang.
Very well written and explained. Recommended.
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Kitchin, Chris: Photo-Guide to the Constellations
The photographs of the sky
as it actually looks under a variety of conditions, coupled with a detailed
guide to star-hopping and other useful techniques, will enable you to quickly
and easily gain a working knowledge of the constellations.
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Levy, David H.: Observing Variable Stars: A Guide for the Beginner
A good introduction to this fascinating branch of astronomy, where the amateur
still makes a valuable contribution. Has good charts and seasonal observing
suggestions.
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Levy, David H.: Skywatching
An attractive and comprehensive introduction for the beginner, with charts by the
lauded Wil Tirion. Suitable for about age 12 to adult.
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Ridpath, Ian and Tirion, Wil: Collins Gem: Stars
This little "gem" is often overlooked
by serious astronomers, but its small format (8cm x 11.5cm) gives you a star
atlas in your shirt pocket! Separate chart for each constellation, down to mag
5. Lots of DSOs, including the Messiers, are marked.
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Ridpath, Ian & Tirion, Wil: The Monthly Sky Guide
Clear and simple introduction for beginners of all ages.
Recommended.
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Upgren, Arthur: Night Has a Thousand Eyes
This is, quite simply, the best
introduction to naked eye astronomy yet written. Upgren weaves a remarkable
book that takes the reader to a greater depth of understanding and knowledge
than any other book aimed at a similar readership. The style is captivating and
the explanations have a simplicity that comes from a mastery of the subject
matter.
Highly recommended.
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See this book at amazon.com
