Observing the Moon: The Modern Astronomer's Guide

What do scientists know about the Moon? What are some of the mysteries that remain to be solved? Written by an experienced and well-known lunar expert, this is a "hands-on" primer for the aspiring observer of the Moon. Whether you are a novice or already experienced in practical astronomy, you will find plenty in this book to help "raise your game" to the next level and beyond. Gerald North shares extensive practical advice and his sophisticated background knowledge of the Moon and of lunar observation. He covers the selection and construction of equipment and optimizing of existing equipment for such projects as drawing, photographing and CCD imaging of the Moon, together with analysis and computer processing images, and many other practical topics. Observing the Moon will allow both amateur and seasoned astronomers alike to immerse themselves in contemporary efforts to solve the lunar mysteries, as well as to enjoy more fully our Moon in all its magnificence.

Science writer North is full of useful information for backyard astronomers who would like to move to the next level in their observations of the earth's satellite. He opens with description (phases and eclipses, gravity and the tides) and history ("the pioneering selenographers"). Sections on telescopes, cameras, and CCD astrocameras follow, along with a chapter on "the desktop moon." The book's longest chapter is North's "`A to Z' of Selected Lunar Landscapes," which displays, with discussion, in detail 48 specific areas of the moon's surface. North closes with the controversial subject of "Lunar Transient Phenomena." Key advantages of North's volume include its practical focus--e.g., lots of advice on the strengths and weaknesses of various types of equipment--and its mix of vivid photographs (from, among others, NASA) and clarifying maps and charts. A useful addition to libraries' astronomy collections. Mary Carroll
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