This introduction to the night sky is for amateur astronomers who desire a deeper understanding of the principles and observations of naked-eye astronomy. It covers topics such as terrestrial and astronomical coordinate systems, stars and constellations, the relative motions of the sky, Sun, Moon and Earth leading to an understanding of the seasons, phases of the moon, and eclipses. Topics are discussed and compared for observers located in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Written in a conversational style, only addition and subtraction are needed to understand the basic principles, with a more advanced mathematical treatment available in the appendices. Each chapter contains a set of review questions and simple exercises to reinforce the reader's understanding of the material. The last chapter is a set of self-contained observation projects to get readers started with making observations about the concepts they have learned.
• Written in a clear, non-mathematical, conversational style, yet tackles astronomical concepts with thorough explanations
• Includes review exercises and observational practical projects
• Suitable for observers in both northern and southern hemispheres
Contents
1. The lure of the sky; 2. Location and coordinates; 3. Stars and constellations; 4. Motions of the Earth; 5. The seasons; 6. The phases of the Moon; 7. Eclipses; 8. Observation projects; Appendices.
Review
'… to many beginners will seem a convenient advantage … the book achieves its objective better than some others I have read …' Astronomy Now
'… perfect for those who desire a deeper understanding of the principles of naked eye astronomy. If you want to know why the night sky changes, this book is for you.' BBC Sky at Night
'This book covers coordinate systems, stars, the rotation and revolution of the Earth, the motion of the Moon, and eclipses. There is little mathematics beyond addition and subtraction. ... a web page for the book ... contains coloured versions of the figures. ... Each chapter ends with questions and review problems, and the book concludes with observational projects and appendices with additional mathematical material, data, and a glossary.' The Observatory
