With the advent of inexpensive, high-power telescopes priced at under $250, amateur astronomy is now within the reach of anyone, and this is the ideal book to get you started. The Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders offers you a guide to the equipment you need, and shows you how and where to find hundreds of spectacular objects in the deep sky -- double and multiple stars as well as spectacular star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies.

You get a solid grounding in the fundamental concepts and terminology of astronomy, and specific advice about choosing, buying, using, and maintaining the equipment required for observing. The Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders is designed to be used in the field under the special red-colored lighting used by astronomers, and includes recommended observing targets for beginners and intermediate observers alike. You get detailed start charts and specific information about the best celestial objects.

The objects in this book were chosen to help you meet the requirements for several lists of objects compiled by The Astronomical League (http://www.astroleague.org) or the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (http://www.rasc.ca): Messier Club.

• Binocular Messier Club
• Urban Observing Club
• Deep Sky Binocular Club
• Double Star Club
• RASC Finest NGC List

Completing the list for a particular observing club entitles anyone who is a member of the Astronomical League or RASC to an award, which includes a certificate and, in some cases, a lapel pin.

This book is perfect for amateur astronomers, students, teachers, or anyone who is ready to dive into this rewarding hobby. Who knows? You might even find a new object, like amateur astronomer Jay McNeil. On a clear cold night in January 2004, he spotted a previously undiscovered celestial object near Orion, now called McNeil's Nebula. Discover what awaits you in the night sky with the Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders.

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Great book for both beginner and advanced amateur astronomer,  January 12 2008
Submitted by Kasper   [Respond | View]

For years I've been interested in astronomy and searching for a more accessible book hereupon than those existing on the market before. When I got my copy of Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders, my first impression was that this book could be the answer to my quest. It appeared to be complete and - more importantly - suitable for the absolute beginner. Especially the first two parts of the book are intended for these beginners: they give a good introduction on the equipment needed to observe the nightly skies and the objects that can be seen there.

The third part of the book is a selection of miscellaneous constellations and objects that can be seen with average equipment (even binoculars could do the job). Such a listing of objects make the book less capable for reading it on a rainy night on your comfortable sofa with a good glass of wine though: this book is actually written to take with you on your nightly explorations, and to use it as a manual and reference book (indeed, as a guide)! This is where my main point of criticism comes in: the book has a glued softcover, which means that little is needed before the cover comes off (and the cover of my example is indeed starting to come off). A stiff cover (hardcover) version of the book would be better, since such books are less subject to wear.

As regards the contents of the book I can be short: the book contains a lot of interesting data on constellations and such, which might frighten the absolute beginner though. My advice for them would be to just read the introductions and images coming with each object, and the descriptions to find them off course. The somewhat more professional might find the data useful though.

To conclude: to some extent, my first impression proved to be correct. It's not the first book I've read about astronomy, and I can say that this one is great for the absolute beginner and more advanced amateur astronomer. The absolute beginner should aim at the 'readable' parts of the book though and take the tabular data for granted. One thing is for sure: it is definitely a valuable addition to your book shelf and your backpack! ;)


Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders - A fine acquisition,  January 03 2008
Submitted by André Cajolais   [Respond | View]

Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders
Robert Bruce Thompson and Barbara Fritchman Thompson
O'Reilly, 2007

I received the Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders for Christmas, part of my wishlist. First impression : great presentation and a very nice layout. I couldn't wait to explore this new acquisition for my librairy.

This book is a definitive must for the serious beginner. If you're just getting into the hobby, and are serious about it, you have to get this book. It will rapidly become your main assistant under the stars.

The first chapters of the book on deep sky objects observing and equipment needed to do so are well written and offer a wealth of information for the beginning and even for the intermediate observer.

Then, the star party begins... The information about each constellation (there are 50 of them for the North Hemispher observer) is complete, clearly presented, and the sky charts are made with one of the best planetarium software on the market.

Robert and Barbara, the authors of this book, made some choices about the catalogs selected for their night sky explorations. They were well inspired. Of course, the Messier catalog is explored – this is the catalog for those beginning into astronomy -, but the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) finest NGC list and the Astronomical League Society catalogs are well suited for introducing someone to the hobby.

The objects selected can be easily seen in a small telescope or binoculars. If you are using a large instrument, in the 8 or 10 inches telescope for example, you'll be rewarded with great views.

In each of the chapters covering the constellations, the descriptions of the objects are clear and instructive, all of them are illustrated with « realistic » photographs, representing quite the same view you would get at the eyepiece.

Of course all of the night sky is not covered in this book, but be sure that the Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wondres will provide you with hours and even a few years of exploration of the night sky.

After you'll gone through this book, you will have gain enough understanding of the night sky to be considered an experienced amateur astronomer.

André Cajolais
Québec, Canada



Worth the Wait,  December 28 2007
Submitted by David A. Riso   [Respond | View]

Like many other amateur astronomers I’m a big fan of the Thompsons’s earlier book, Astronomy Hacks, and have been eagerly awaiting a sequel. Well, their new book is finally here -- and it was worth the wait!

As an observer’s guide, An Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders is not exactly a sequel to the earlier “tips and tools” volume, but it is written in the same simple and engaging style. Once again readers are treated to access to the Thompson’s vast experience in observing the heavens through binoculars and telescopes. Anecdotes about their own observations, coupled with comprehensive charts and diagrams, really simplify finding elusive objects, such as “faint fuzzy” galaxies and nebulae. Finding your target is the critical first step in every observing session, and can make the difference between a wonderful night and a frustrating experience. The illustrations of finder and eyepiece fields on the charts are particularly helpful, and the photos are unmistakable confirmation of what you see in the eyepiece.

The book is truly comprehensive, packed with over 500 pages of useful information. At the same time it is easy to use, as the data is arranged alphabetically by constellation name. In addition to the guide to 50 constellations, the book opens with an excellent introduction to deep sky observing, which those newer to the hobby will find especially useful. There is also a chapter on observing equipment in which the authors present the kind of practical and useful information fans of their earlier book have come to appreciate.

In short, this is a great book for the newbie and the experienced observer alike. It belongs on every amateur astronomer’s bookshelf – except when it’s being used in the field.



The most complete guide for observing the deep-sky,  December 18 2007
Submitted by Zsolt Szalma   [Respond | View]

Well, the Thompsons did it again. I loved Astronomy Hacks which came out a few years ago and was chock-full of information on how to bring out the most of your astro equipment. This time Robert and his wife Barbara created a wonderful guide for those who wish to hunt down the best of the myriad of deep-sky objects. They did an excellent job.

The content of the book can be devided into two distinct parts:


1.) the first chapter introduces the reader into the bits and bytes of deep-sky observing, while the second chaper deals with telescopes, and accessories. The authors give detailed information on the various types of deep-space objects (multiple stars, open- and globular clusters, nebulae and galaxies). There are also some nice photos which depict each type of object. These are not the glorious full-color Hubble photos we see all over the net. The Thompsons decided to choose photos that represent quite close what an amateur astronomer will see through the eyepiece. A very wise decesion I may add. Besides just presenting clearly written info on deep-sky objects, the authors also introduce basic astronomical concepts, like the magnitude system, the celestial coordinate system or stellar designations). Even if you are familiar with all these terms and concepts and the world of deep-space object, you will definetly want to read the last part of the first chapter titled "How The Constellation Chapters are Organized". This is where they explain how to interpret the info in the summary tables found throughout the second part of the book. As for the second chapter, I am not going into details here. It's full of practical information on astro-gear: telescopes, eyepieces, filters, finders, barlows,planetarium software, you name it. Not as detailed as in Astronomy Hacks but still quite thorough.

2.) The second part of the book constitutes about 80% or more of all the content. This is where the real juice is. This part is a constellation-by-constellation guide to finding and observing numerous deep-sky objects. But just what objects exactly? The authors decided to turn to some of the observing lists compiled by the Astronomical League (AL) and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC). Included are the AL Mesier Club list, the AL Binocular Messier Club list, the AL Urban Observing Club list, the AL Deep Sky Binocular Club list, the AL Double Star Club list, and the RASC Finest NGC list. Quite a few deep-sky objects. Enough to keep any observer happy for a long time. I don't know of any other observing guide that contains detailed information on such a large number of objects. For each constellation there is a short introduction to the particular constellation , then comes two separete tables: one listing basic info on the featured clusters, nebulae and galaxies, and an other doing the same for multiple stars. There's also an overview chart showing the whole constellation and the objects being discussed in the following pages. To me, the real gem of the book lies in the object descriptions. Yes, the authors will go into detail describing how to locate each object by star-hopping, and how those object will look to the observer through medium sized amateur telescopes. Just wonderful! Aiding the written descriptions are finder charts with 5 and 1-degree finder circles drawn in. The reader will also find many astrophotos similar to those in the first chapter. They are all black-and-white, have the same scale and represent fairly closely what one may see through a telescope.

Negatives? Very few and far between. The authors' intention was to make this book a field guide. However, I find it a little to heavy and bulky to use by the telescope. And besides, it's just to precious to me to take out into the cold and dewy nights. I will use the information in this book when I prepare for observing in my room. And after I am finished under the stars, I will take the book out again and compare my notes to those made by the Thompsons.

The Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders is Well, the Thompsons did it again. I loved Astronomy Hacks which came out a few years ago and was chock-full of information on how to bring out the most of your astro equipment. This time Robert and his wife Barbara created a wonderful guide for those who wish to hunt down the best of the myriad of deep-sky objects. They did an excellent job.

The Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders is highly recommended to any amateur astronomer with a telescope, regardless of their level of experience. Thanks to Robert and Barbara for this unique guide to astronomical wonders!

Eye Opener,  December 05 2007
Submitted by A.R.Gander   [Respond | View]

The emphasis of this book is indisputably "Guide".
Why did'n't some-one do a book like this years ago? It would have saved me a lot of time and money and I would have learned a lot more sooner.The first part of the book is a superb,practical,concise guide to getting started and it is worth a beginner getting the book for this part alone.The bulk of the book is exactly like the title,being as close as you can get to having some-one at your shoulder. Tabular information takes a couple of goes to get into the groove with as this is pure data.Guide charts are superbly uncluttered,taking you comfortably to the target and the illustrations are pretty close to what you will find (regrettably better than we can usually expect to see in the UK).
It is difficult to find any adverse comment to make as the authors do achieve what they set out to do. The only real complaint I can make is that the book should be more robustly bound as it will be, or should be, getting a pounding in the field.


Illustrrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders,  November 30 2007
Submitted by Dean   [Respond | View]

In the preface, the authors of Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders sell it as primarily a field observing guide. Unfortunately, that label seriously understates the outstanding utility of this book! This is an incredible resource for the beginning and intermediate amateur astronomer.

The authors start with two extremely well written chapters to aid the beginner: one on Deep Space Object (DSO) observing and on on astronomical equipment. The remainder of the book consists mostly of short tours through 50 constellations visible to most astronomers in the northern hemisphere.

The chapter on DSO observing is a must read, regardless of experience level. This chapter not only covers the basics of DSO objects (what a PN, OC and GX are and their associated classification codes), but it also gives a detailed orientation of how the individual chapters and observations are listed. This part is necessary as some of the nomenclature used in the book is brand new (unless, of course, you already know what MBUdr is and how it differs from mbuDR).

The chapter on equipment covers almost everything the beginner needs to know about these instruments. There is a detailed discussion on binoculars, telescopes, eyepieces, atlases (both paper and computer), filters, finders, plansipheres and lists of “other things” that the observer may want nearby. The discussions pull no punches on the pros and cons of these items, which makes it one of the best short discussions I've ever read on these topics. It is very even-handed in its approach and isn't afraid of including dissenting opinions when warranted.

While the first two chapters are an incredible resource, the meat of this book is in the chapters on the individual constellations. This is where the book absolutely shines! Each chapter starts with a short discussion on the constellation. The discussion starts with a section on the story behind the name of the constellation, often delving into the mythology behind it. While not necessary to the observer, it's still very interesting. Then the basic characteristics of the constellation are listed (size, location, relationship to the galactic plane, etc). Once the discussion is completed, two lists of observing targets are given: the Deep Space Objects and multiple stars that are discussed in depth later in the chapter. Finally, a star chart showing the constellation is presented. This star chart has each of the items listed in the previous tables included on it.

What makes this book indispensable is the individual observations. The observation starts with a listing of the name, DSO type, magnitude, location, size and a rating listed in a table. It also uses a shorthand notation detailing what astronomical lists include the object (this MBUDR shorthand notation is completely bewildering if you don't read the first chapter). Once these housekeeping chores are out of the way, the authors wrote a short essay on the object. The first paragraph of this essay details some basics about the object (for example, the number of stars in the cluster and its classification) and includes any historical information on when the DSO was discovered. The next paragraph discusses what the object “looks like” through any number of instruments (naked eye, binoculars, small and/or medium-sized telescopes). It also identifies what filters improve the view. This really gives a good idea of what can be expected when viewing the object. Finally, there is a discussion on how to best find the DSO. Two figures are included for most DSOs, a star chart to help find it and a photo of the object. The star chart includes circles on it for a 5° finder and a 1° eyepiece view and it's very easy to use the chart in conjunction with the star-hopping instructions.

But in all honesty, what really thrilled me with this book were the photographs, and not because they are great astrophotographs taken by the Hubble Telescope. Instead, the authors shunned the Hubble-telescope views for something infinitely more useful. Namely, a black and white photo centered on the object and with a fixed, 1° view. For those of us who like to sketch our observations, this view is very easy to reconcile with our sketches, even if those sketches are of other field widths. This one feature alone is worth the price of the book! Beginners will love being able to come in from a night of observing and see that the sketch they made actually looks like the object! I have spent several hours going back over my past observations and comparing them to the book! In that way, this book is not just a field guide, it's also a very useful desk reference!

The authors have managed to do what is often impossible. They've married an incredible amount of information with an easy-to-read style that keeps your interest from page to page. I heartily recommend this book to any amateur astronomer! With its engaging prose and over 500 individual objects described in detail, this book will easily keep you busy both at the telescope and in your favorite recliner!



Fantastic Observers Guide,  November 28 2007
Submitted by Anonymous Reader   [Respond | View]

The Thompson's have outdone themselves with this publication! I only wish this came to press five years ago, when I re-entered this hobby.

The material is laid out in a very intuitive manner and is very easy to read. They also provide some nice definitions and examples to common terms.

I really like the finderscope view drawings with the 1 degree eyepiece imposed on it. I recommend to anyone getting into this hobby and as a perfect present too!
Dan James


A Must Have For Beginning Observers,  November 28 2007
Submitted by Steve S.   [Respond | View]

If someone is getting a first telescope for Christmas, this book, should also be under the tree.

The authors of this book have compiled observing lists based on the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) and a few of the Astronomical Leagues observing "clubs" lists. It reflects observing from mid northern latitudes.

The lists they used to put the book together are aimed at beginning to intermediate astronomers observing from northern latitudes, and the combined lists total about 400 objects to observe.

The authors feelings are that if you work an individual observing list, you could miss out on other excellent objects nearby. I agree. While pursuing the Messier list I became bored, because I knew there were other deep space objects (DSO's) out there to observe that I wasn't spending time on.

The first part of the book is an observing guide that covers the use of observing equipment, how to choose a star chart, how to observe each type of object.

The meat of the book is organized by constellation, and has tables of objects in
each one covered. Beside the usual catalog data, the object tables have keys for visual rating (the higher the rating, the the more interesting), and difficulty of finding the object (which may be subjective to experience).
The tables also indicate the particular list, or lists each object is from.

The lists that the authors compile into the book:
- The RASC Finest NGC List
- The Astronomical Leagues' Urban, Deepsky Binocular, Messier, Messier
Binocular, and Double Star List

The only complaints I have are that the close up finder charts are only one quarter of a page in size, with a lot of wasted whitespace around them. Why not make them bigger? The objects in the book also appear in the index, but I would like to see separate appendices with the objects listed in tables.

Overall I like this book. It has the same format("knock off" immediately came to mind) as the more hefty and truly excellent "Night Sky Observers Guide" by George Robert Kepple and Glen Sanner, but is definitely on the beginners side.

As a former Astronomical League Correspondent for my local astronomy club, I can say this book puts it all together for beginners very nicely. If you are setting out to conquer the Astronomical Leagues observing lists mentioned above,
defintely get this book. You will also need to get a decent star chart, but read the section about choosing a chart before you do.


A Must Have Observers Guide,  November 27 2007
Submitted by Anonymous Reader   [Respond | View]

This is a terrific guide for both beginning and experienced observers alike. It’s something I wish I had had when I started observing years ago. The first two chapters are a good overview of terms, principles and concepts also touching on equipment, charts and astronomy software.

The bulk of the volume is dedicated to star charts, descriptions and pictures of the constellations and the varied items of interest in and around them. It is arranged in alphabetical order by constellation, which is the way I find best to observe. A nice feature is the inclusion on the charts of finder circles and eyepiece circles of view.

What I found particularly helpful was the inclusion of photographs with the charts. I have books of charts and books of photographs but this is the first book I’ve seen that brings them both together. To me, looking at both charts and photographs together is a real help in orienting myself to the sky.

All of the above along with the authors down to earth style of narrative definitely makes this book a great addition to any observer’s library. I give this book 5 stars.

By R.Adams



Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders,  November 27 2007
Submitted by Ronald H.   [Respond | View]

What an excellent guide for both the beginner and the more advanced observer. As an intermediate backyard amateur astronomer, I find that the “Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders” fills aa need by bringing together in one volume a wide variety of information about amateur astronomy. From equipment to objects to observe, there is information about it all.

The organization by constellation is both logical and practical. It lets one plan a session so as to maximize the number of objects to observe. The illustrations from the Digital Sky Survey approximate what the observer can expect to see with moderate sized telescopes.

Robert Bruce Thompson and Barbara Fritchman Thompson have written a winner, providing valuable information for both the beginner and for the more experienced observer. It surely is a bargain at $29.95, and I, as a backyard astronomer, recommend it highly.



Best single-volume reference and guide to the skies of the Northern Hemisphere!,  November 21 2007
Submitted by Max Loudenback   [Respond | View]

The Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders, written by Robert Bruce Thompson and Barbara Fritchman Thompson, and published by Make: Books, an imprint of Maker Media, a division of O'Reilly Media, Inc. is the most complete guide to the night skies of the northern hemisphere I've encountered thus far. It's first two chapters provide a thorough introduction to fundamental concepts and terminology, and an overview of useful equipment, star atlases, and software for the budding or advanced amateur astronomer. The authors review much of the equipment they have found useful and affordable for the beginning to intermediate hobbyist, with recommendations concerning what works well and what doesn't. Detailed descriptions, and useful star-charts for "star-hopping" using reflex finders, are accompanied with excellent photographs of nearly all of the deep sky objects visible with amateur equipment from the northern hemisphere in all fifty constellations containing them. This book is so well-done that I would recommend it as the best single-volume guide to the hobby of observational astronomy that is available


Essential purcahse - should be included with new telescopes!,  November 20 2007
Submitted by dave howes   [Respond | View]

Most amateur astronomers have a comprehensive library of books – field guides, observing guides, star atlases and charts, and “how – to” books, not to mention the back copies of magazines saved for years because of a few useful, interesting or informative pages contained within. And with the wealth of information available online, there is no shortage of advice and inspiration for observers of all experience levels. But what do you do if you feel overwhelmed by all this, and how do you sort the “diamonds” from the “rubble”, so to speak.
Until recently, you spent years experimenting and asking around for advice, making mistakes along the way, but learning all the time. Now all you need to do is buy this book!
Robert and Barbara Thompson have given the astronomical community the benefit of their years of experience, and compiled what will quite probably be the most significant astronomy book of the decade.
Written in an informal and engaging style, reading it is like having a seasoned veteran observer standing at your side to quietly offer intelligent and honest advice, and to show you how to find hundreds of the most impressive sights of the deep sky.
The book is arranged by constellations easily visible from the northern hemisphere, and lists all those objects contained in the most popular and globally accepted observing lists, such as the Messier catalogue, the RASC “Finest NGC’s”, and selected multiple stars.
Each object has a detailed finder chart and a black & white image, which at first glance is rather underwhelming, but is cleverly designed to be an accurate representation of what is visible in a small telescope. There is space on each page to make notes and small drawings, and a clear and concise description of how to find it and what to look for when you do.

I am rarely impressed enough to write book reviews, but in this case I have made an exception, because this is an exceptional book. It is the one I will unreservedly recommend to anyone with more than a passing interest in astronomy, who has just bought a telescope and is wondering what to do next. The Thompson’s have achieved what many more eminent writers have tried but failed to do – to write a practical, informative, realistic and user-friendly guide to the night sky. Armed with a telescope, this book, and a set of star charts, you will be equipped for many productive and enjoyable years of observing, and when you have logged everything in the book, will have a valuable record of your progression from beginner to “Grand Master” of astronomy.



Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders,  November 19 2007
Submitted by Dennis O'Day   [Respond | View]

Barbara and Robert have done it again! (They also wrote Astronomy Hacks...O'Reilly) They have written a book that will be very useful to amateur astronomers of all levels. It offers the kind information that will save money and frustration while navigating the maze of available equipment. They will help you organize equipment and charts to make the most of your observing sessions.
Using a list of objects while observing will help you to see and learn more. The star charts are organized by constellation, in alphabetical order. Every chart shows the available objects from the Astronomical League's Messier List, Binocular Messier List, Deep Sky Binocular List, Double Star List,Urban Observing List,and The RASC Finest NGC Objects List.
The charts use 5° field finder circles to aid in locating objects. A picture and description of what you can see in the eyepiece is also featured.
I wish this book had been available when I started looking up. Thank you Barbara and Robert for witting this wonderful book.
Clear and Dark Skies,
Dennis O'Day





Simply Wonderful!,  November 15 2007
Submitted by Gordon G. Hengst   [Respond | View]


Are you lost in Space? Then you’re in luck, Robert Bruce Thompson & Barbara Fritchman Thompson have written a book that helps with two problems that every beginner to amateur astronomy faces – Which objects to observe and how to find them. I’ve been observing since August of 1960 when my dad took me out one night to watch Echo 1A one of NASA’s first communications satellites. Watching the 100 foot diameter Mylar reflective balloon traverse the heavens above was all that it took, I’ve been looking up ever since. To help others find their way around the heavens above, the Thompson’s book starts out with an Introduction to Deep Sky Objects and how to organize your Observing Activities. Next they discuss Observing Equipment that is a must read for all beginning astronomers. And then finally onto the 50 Constellations that are the meat of the book. Here you will find Tables, Charts, Photographs and everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the Constellations but were afraid to ask! (Well, almost everything). I was wishing I had a book like this when I first started out, something to guide me about the night skies and I even considered writing one myself. But I have no need now that Robert and Barbara beat me to the punch and I’m glad they did! So if you need a guiding hand that includes complete illustrated constellations, equipment lists, instructions, comprehensive charts and diagrams with hundreds of deep sky objects and multiple stars this is the book to have. As an owner of over eighty different astronomy books, this is one is definitely in my top five for observing. I highly recommend this book for beginning and intermediate astronomers. Wonder no more what’s up there and order a copy of the “Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders.”





Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders,  November 14 2007
Submitted by John Smith   [Respond | View]

Where was this book when I started as a novice observer? I’ve used several resources and acquired many types of astronomical media to learn my way around the sky. I even picked up a few myths along the way. Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders explains all you need to know about observing, the equipment you’ll need, and an observing guide for five Astronomical League lists and the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada Finest NGC List. The first sixty four pages consist of a chapter on fundamentals of observing and a chapter on observing equipment. The bulk of the book is an observing guide that takes you through fifty constellations and shows you how to find every object on the Astronomical League Messier list, binocular Messier and deep sky binocular list, urban observing list, double star list, and the Royal Astronomical Society one hundred ten finest NGC list. A total of four hundred objects. Each constellation page has a chart with all the objects from the lists, a whole constellation chart, a detailed finder chart and a description on how to find each object. The book is meant for use in the field and can be read using a red flashlight under a dark sky. The pages of the book are designed to stay open when set on a table. I would recommend this book for anyone starting out in astronomy who wants to observe the night sky. This book is also recommended for intermediate observing and anyone who wants a quick reference for many beautiful objects in the sky.

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