The Great Atlas of the Sky, Jubilee Edition, is the world’s largest printed atlas of the entire sky, available on the market. It comprises of 296 maps, each covering the area of 15°x10°. The size of the maps is 24x17 inches (61x43 cm), and their scale is 1.38 inch/° (35 mm/°).
A total of 2,430,768 stars, up to the stellar magnitude of 12, are plotted on the maps of the Atlas, in addition to over 70,000 galaxies, clusters and nebulae. All the non-stellar objects plotted on the maps are labeled with the Messier, NGC, IC, Sh2, RCW or PGC catalogue designations. The maps are also plotted with the symbols and numbers of all the stars included in the Bayer catalogue of 1603 (Greek letters), Flamsteed catalogue of 1725, and in the Hipparcos catalogue of 1997. Also, all the variable stars included in the GCVS and NSV catalogues have their symbols marked on the maps. All told, a total of 130 thousand stars have their designations provided on the maps.
The nebulae, whose diameter is greater than 5’, are shown on maps as outlines reflecting their shape. Galaxies are depicted in the form of an ellipse, provided that their diameter is larger than 2’. The size and location of the ellipse corresponds to the real size and the position of the galaxy in the sky. The maps also have the ecliptic plotted on, with an angular scale of every 0.1°. In the case of polar maps, the axial precession movement is indicated by the position of the poles in the years 2000-2100.
Maps are inserted in the special binding allowing for easy removal of the maps. Once placed in the dedicated protective film, the map can be used outdoors, without risking damage to the map. The Atlas is supplied with a grid film that facilitates the finding of precise coordinates of every point on the map and to plot objects of known coordinates, e.g. current position of comets taken from ephemerides.
Our expert comment:
In terms of use, atlases can be divided into two categories: atlases that are suitable for field use and those that are used for preparing and evaluating observations at home. Both types differ accordingly in format, detail and robustness.
The Great Atlas of the Sky is primarily designed for use at home, but can also be used with a telescope. The depth of the starry sky depicted is impressive and allows for the most accurate analyses. The atlas shows almost all stars that can be observed with a telescope with a 150 mm aperture under a 5 mag sky. This means that any observation, even of the faintest objects, can be planned very precisely. This certainly increases the chances of success.
Thanks to its well thought-out design, it can also be used directly during outdoor observations. The individual maps can be removed. The transparent plastic bag supplied protects the maps from moisture. A practical side effect: notes or sketches can be made on the plastic with a washable pen.
With such detailed material, there is often the problem that the individual maps show very small sections. This can make it difficult to find objects and it is easy to lose track of the overall picture. The maps in this atlas are 61 x 43 cm in size. This means that half of the Orion constellation, for example, can be shown on one map.
To get an idea of the uniqueness of the atlas, consider the fact that nineteen galaxies are depicted in the box of the Little Dipper alone.
A great guide for interstellar travel. Just as indispensable as a towel!
(Michael Suchodolski)
