Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters (Practical Astronomy Handbooks, Series Number 2) - Softcover

Jones, Kenneth Glyn

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052105849X ISBN 13: 9780521058490

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2008

Synopsis

Charles Messier's catalog of nebulae and star clusters, published in 1784, marked the start of a new era of deep-sky astronomy. Today, this tradition of observing galaxies and clusters is kept alive by dedicated amateur astronomers. Nearly all the objects are visible in a small telescope, and many, such as the Crab Nebula and the Andromeda galaxy, are among the most fascinating objects in the universe. Kenneth Glyn Jones has revised his definitive version of Messier's catalog. His own observations and drawings, together with maps and diagrams, make this a valuable introduction to deep-sky observing. Historical and astrophysical notes bring the science of these nebulae right up to date. This is a unique handbook, unlikely ever to be equaled in its completeness and importance to the telescope owner.

About this title

Book Description

Kenneth Glyn Jones has revised his definitive version of Messier's catalogue. His own observations and drawings, together with maps and diagrams, make this a valuable introduction to deep sky observing. Historical and astrophysical notes bring the science of these nebulae to the fore. This is a unique handbook, unlikely ever to be equalled in its completeness and importance to the telescope owner.

Review

"...a treasure trove of detail about the Messier Objects....I highly recommend Kenneth Glyn Jones' Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters. It is a modern 'bible' for all those who wish to take an informed and leisurely tour of Messier's starry harvest!" José Olivarez, The Strolling Astronomer

"...of all the books devoted to the Messier objects, this is by far the most extensive....what sets this book apart from the others devoted to the Messier catalog is the amount of historical information. Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters is chock-full of background information that make this book indispensable as a reference....While I recommend the book, new observers may be put off by the size and amount of information included witthin. But they shouldn't be. Everything is written in an easy-to-understand, non-technical style. Furthermore, the book will be of interest to more advanced observers since it contains historical information not found in a single source." Mark J. Coco, Deep Sky

"Whether the observatory or the armchair is your preferred locale for astronomical contemplation, this book gets three stars ('worth the trip')." Owen Gingerich, Sky and Telescope

"...very well written and is up to the usual high standards of Cambridge University Press." Robert A. Seal, American Reference Books Annual

"Although the book is primarily addressed to amateur astronomers, professional astronomers will find the work useful for the historical introductions to the individual objects." R. H. Van Gent, Space Science Reviews

"...a very thorough and fascinating treatment of both the man and his catalog....Any observer who has marveled at the wonders contained within the Messier list will be fascinated to read the story behind it and the man behind the "M"!" Gordon Bond, The Practical Observer

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 052105849X
• ISBN 13: 9780521058490
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 448