Visual Astronomy with a Small Telescope

Sean G. Ryan

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English

CRC Press
04 September 2024

Astronomical observation: observatories, equipment & methods; Light (optics); Astrophysics; Electronic devices & materials; Space science

This is a practical guide to using a small astronomical telescope of a size that corresponds to most “first” telescopes – around 75-150 mm, i.e. 3-6 inches, in diameter.

Visual Astronomy with a Small Telescope is for people who are sufficiently interested in astronomy to have purchased a small telescope or received one as a gift, but who are still developing experience of using one. They may have looked at the Moon and major planets and be wondering, “What's next?” There are many books catering for casual star-gazing and many more advanced books dealing with astrophotography and astrophysics, but this is for someone who has acquired their first telescope or soon will and wants to make the most of it.

It explains how the optics of the telescope function, so the reader understands what their telescope can do and how eyepieces should be selected and used depending on the type of object being observed. It details different types of astronomical objects, their astrophysical significance, and how to observe them. It contains 43 detailed, clear charts and describes 380 objects suitable for visual observation with a small telescope and explains how to locate them without needing a computer-controlled telescope. It will help readers make the most of their telescopes to successfully observe the Universe and kick-start a life-long interest in star-gazing.

• Presents essential information on optics, astronomy and astrophysics for anyone with a small telescope.

• Contains 43 detailed charts, based on the constellations and showing stars down to magnitude 8.5, and identifies 380 objects suitable for visual observation with a small telescope.

• Written by a Professor of Astrophysics with experience as both an amateur astronomer and a professional observational astronomer using telescopes at both small and major observatories around the world.

By: Sean G. Ryan
Imprint: CRC Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781032812892
ISBN 10: 1032812893
Pages: 180
Publication Date: 04 September 2024
Audience: General/trade , College/higher education , ELT Advanced , Primary
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Chapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Understanding Your Telescope. Chapter 3: Planning Your Observations. Chapter 4: Observing and Locating Targets Visually with a Small Telescope. Chapter 5: Charts of Targets for Visual Astronomy with a Small Telescope. Bibliography and Index.

Sean Ryan is a professional astronomer with almost fifty years’ experience as an amateur observer. He was appointed Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Hertfordshire in 2006, where he was Head and Dean of the School of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics for ten years. He has published over 100 research papers on observational astronomy, and has co-authored several textbooks.