Product Description

With 250,000 copies in print since its initial publication in 1983, NightWatch has become a standard reference guide for stargazers throughout North America.

The new Third Edition expands on that success with a completely revised and updated text, more than 100 new color photos and diagrams and 16 additional pages that cover such! new astronomical pursuits as computerized telescopes, reviews of new telescope designs and accessories, and astronomy on the Internet.

All charts, tables and diagrams have been updated and, in some cases, redesigned for easier use. Improved spacecraft measurements of the distances to the stars (recently released by the European Space Agency) are included in the charts, along with additional observing tips for stargazers using binoculars and telescopes. An expanded chapter on Astrophotography lists the best modern films and cameras for skyshooting.

The new NightWatch is faithful to the "ultra-simplified, no jargon" philosophy of the original, and at the same time, offers substantially more practical information for the novice and intermediate-level amateur astronomer. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada called the first edition "the best of its kind"- the new Third Edition is better still. It is still an abundantly illustrated, wide-sized volume designed for easy reference during many starlit nights.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1158335 in Books
• Published on: 1998-11-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 176 pages

From School Library Journal
Grade 6 Up?This long-overdue update of a classic handbook for amateur astronomers combines a text both meaty and hard to put down with a great array of charts, boxes, tables, and dazzling full-color photos of the sky. Aiming this offering at new but serious hobbyists, Dickinson guides readers on a tour of the universe visible from any dark backyard, providing frank evaluations of many telescope models; specific advice for photographers; and a simple system for locating stars, constellations, nebulae, and other intriguing sights. Convenient charts track upcoming eclipses and the locations of the five planets visible to the naked eye (both through the year 2010). The author closes with lists of supplementary resources, including books, software, Web sites, and conventions. Dickinson's contagious enthusiasm and vast expertise earn this a place in reference and circulating collections of any size.?John Peters, New York Public Library
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal
Van Holt, who teaches stargazing courses at the University of Kansas, explains how anyone living between southern Canada and northern Mexico (basically between latitudes 30 and 50 degrees) can learn to identify star formations and constellations without using complicated charts and equipment. Incorporating outdoor survival techniques with science, legends, and the myths surrounding the constellations, he teaches readers how to tell the difference between planets, comets, satellites, and stars and how to use star patterns to determine time and direction. By combining humor with fact, he has created an entertaining illustrated guide to the nighttime skies. Recommended for larger public libraries. For beginning skywatchers and amateur astronomers who want more substance, Dickinson's Nightwatch?the standard guide since its 1983 publication?is the book to read. Newly revised and updated, this edition claims to allow for use through the year 2010. Dickinson, an award-winning science writer specializing in astronomy, explains how to find constellations, differentiate galaxies, and identify the location of stars according to seasons. He also discusses equipment, including what criteria to use for selecting a telescope, and includes information about astronomy on the Internet, computerized telescopes, astrophotography, and tips for stargazers using binoculars. With a completely updated and revised text and more than 100 new diagrams and color photographs, Dickinson ensures that his guide will retain its position as a classic. Essential for all public and college library astronomy collections.?Gloria Maxwell, Kansas City P.L.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review
An accessible reference for all amateur astronomers ... Packed with practical information. (Astronomy Magazine 20030501)

Easily the best in its field. ... Highly recommended for all libraries. (Choice 20050411)

Dickinson ensures that his guide will retain its position as a classic (Library Review 20050514)

Terence Dickinson's new edition of Nightwatch is an excellent resource for aspiring astronomers and astrophotographers (Outdoor Photographer )

Highly recommended as the best of its kind. (Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canad )

One of the top stargazing guides in the English language, gives novices just the right information to feed their curiosity. (Canadian Living )

A great all-round astronomy guide. (Glenn Chaple Astronomy )

An ideal first book for the backyard astronomer ... one that will grow along with the observer's skill. (Chet Raymo Sky and Telescope )

One of the best all-around general astronomy books ... simple to understand and has just enough of a 'gee-whiz' tone. (Air and Space )

A fine beginner's guide to observational astronomy. (Astronomical Society of the Pacific )

This is a book you can confidently recommend to anyone who is just starting out in astronomy. (Astronomical League )

Absolutely the best book for beginners. (Library Journal )

Wonderful book... The kind of guide that takes you by the hand and leads you to all the good stuff. (Jim Quig Calgary Herald )

I believe I've found the best beginners [astronomy] book ever. That's a strong claim, but NightWatch...is nothing short of awesome. (Bob Burris Sailsbury Post )