Stargazer's Guide to the Universe A Complete Visual Guide to Interpreting the Cosmos

[back cover] This extraordinary book is a complete visual guide to the heavens. From Andromeda to Virgo, every constellation is examined and explained, with breathtaking photographs from orbiting astronomical observatories and deep-space telescopes--most notably NASA's famous Hubble telescope. A gazer's guide to the solar system examines planets, asteroids, meteors, and comets. The main part of the book is devoted to mapping the stars. Stunning images of colliding galaxies, supernovas, and spirograph nebulae represent a cosmic light show that will amaze even the seasoned stargazer. Each key constellation features a map that places it in context within the universe and shows its position in relation to other celestial bodies. Diagrams explaining the leading clusters and prominent stars allow readers to interpret the beautiful large-scale photographs. Information on the visibility of each constellation is included with every entry, and a separate star schedule enables stargazers to plan their stargazing with ease no matter where they are in the world. [front flap] This visual guide to the cosmos is for anyone who wants to know more about the Universe and how we explore it. It deals with stars, galaxies, and solar systems, and examines and explains every constellation. Other phenomena such as black holes, comets, meteors, and asteroids are also explained. The many different ways to observe the heavens are discussed--the naked eye, telescopes, observatories, spacecraft, and even astronomical imaging. A ready-reference section shows star maps for each month of the year, as well as maps of the celestial sphere and the constellations visible at different times ofthe year, with the images in the book keyed to them for cross-referencing. [back flap] Robin Kerrod, a Fellow of Britain's Royal Astronomical Society, writes extensively on astronomy and space, and travels the world to visit observatories and space centers. Among his previous books are "Book of Constellations and "The Sky at Night, both published in North America by Barron's.Kerrod, Robin is the author of 'Stargazer's Guide to the Universe A Complete Visual Guide to Interpreting the Cosmos' with ISBN 9780764158445 and ISBN 0764158449.