The Planet Observer's Handbook - Softcover

Price, Fred W.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521789818 ISBN 13: 9780521789813

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2000

Synopsis

Here is an informative, up-to-date and well-illustrated guide to planetary observations for amateurs. After chapters on the solar system and the celestial sphere, the text explains how to choose, test and use a telescope with various accessories and how to make observations and record results. For each planet and the asteroids, Price gives details of observational techniques, together with suggestions for how to make contributions of sound astronomical value. From a general description and detailed observational history of each planet, readers learn how to anticipate what they should see and assess their own observations. New to this edition is a chapter on planetary photography that includes the revolutionary use of videography, charge coupled devices and video-assisted drawing. Another new feature is a section on the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud. Other chapters on making maps and planispheres and on photoelectric photometry round out the book's up-to-date treatment, making this indispensable reading for both casual and serious observer alike.

About this title

Book Description

This is an informative, up-to-date and well-illustrated guide for amateur astronomers who wish to make useful observations of the solar system planets and asteroids. The author provides highly-detailed practical instructions to observational techniques and the recording and analysis of data together with the observational history of each planet and the asteroids. Photoelectric photometry, videography and planetary photography are discussed, including sections on the revolutionary charge-coupled devices and on video-assisted drawing.

Review

"...a refreshing book...There is a tremendous amount of useful information, and helpful advice for casual observers, and for those who are anxious to contribute information of real scientific value...Price has put a great deal of effort into the book, and it must be regarded as a definite success. It will be valuable both to the beginner and to the serious planetary observer. I strongly recommend it." New Scientist

"...offers much for the casual observer and 'armchair astronomer', aimed also at those who wish to contribute to our knowledge of the planets...many pearls of information...presented concisely with excellent illustrations...a synopsis of historical observations provides excellent foundations for planning observational programs...brief resumes of spacecraft data follow, emphasizing interesting and helpful facts...well-written and detailed enough to guide the beginning researcher." Sky & Telescope

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521789818
• ISBN 13: 9780521789813
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 448