The Practical Skywatcher's Handbook

The Practical Skywatcher's Handbook cover

Description

This practical, hands-on
guide is the sailor's essential atlas of the sky.

Assuming no prior knowledge, this comprehensive, practical handbook helps the user at sea or on land read and understand the changing sky. Readers
are given hands-on advice on how to read the night sky and star charts, as well
as information on whether particular stars can be seen with the naked eye or
require binoculars or a telescope.

At the core of the book are 150
sky charts, showing what features can be seen in each position and when. Every
constellation in the northern and southern hemisphere is mapped out. Simple methods are given for finding the biggest,
brightest stars and then identifying other lesser stars by their relative
position.

For sailors out of the sight
of land, celestial navigation really comes into its own - providing a sure
means of checking the boat's position even when GPS and other electronics malfunction.
This book will provide a complete reference as to what stars and constellations
they should be able to use when and where in the world.

The Practical Skywatcher's Handbook is ideal for anyone, on land or sea, wanting a complete guide to the night sky.

Product details

Published 05 Jan 2012
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 480
ISBN 9781408157466
Imprint A&C Black
Illustrations Full colour throughout
Dimensions 238 x 140 mm
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

David H. Levy

David H Levy is an astronomer and science writer…

Author

John O'Byrne

John O'Byrne is the secretary of the Astronomical…

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