The Observer's Guide to Astronomy: v. 2

How can you find new minor planets, comets and novae? How can you use photoelectric detectors to derive the temperatures of stars? And how can you predict future eclipses and occultations of stars by minor planets? The questions asked by serious amateur astronomers are answered in this authoritative and wide-ranging guide. For each topic, sound practical methods of observation and the scientific background are given to lead you to better observations. Guidelines also show you how to record and catalogue your observations using the recognised professional terminology and classification schemes. From the simplest pencil drawings of the moon to observations of the most distant galaxies with state-of-the-art CCD cameras and photoelectric photometers, this guide is packed with practical tips for all types of amateur observations. It will develop the observational skills of the keen novice and satisfy the more demanding needs of the experienced amateur astronomer.

Table of Contents

Volume 1: Contents (Volumes 1 & 2); The contributors; Summary (Volumes 1 & 2); Preface; Translator’s preface; 1. The Sun; 2. Observing the Sun with a coronograph; 3. Solar eclipses; 4. The Moon; 5. Planetary surfaces; 6. Planetary satellites; 7. The minor planets; 8. Comets; 9. Occultations; 10. Artificial satellites; Notes, references and bibliography – Volume 1. Volume 2: Contents (Volumes 1 & 2); The contributors; Summary (Volumes 1 & 2); 11. Aurorae; 12. Meteors; 13. Double and multiple stars; 14. Variable stars; 15. Deep sky novae and supernovae; 16. Plate comparisons; 17. Astrometry; 18. Spectroscopy; 19. Photoelectric photometry; 20. Image-intensifiers and CCDs; Appendices: 1. Time scales; 2. The T60 Association; Notes, references and bibliography – Volume 2.