Atlas of the Moon

-This book is a beautiful complement to a photographic atlas or description. I was surprised to find how this graphically drawn atlas seems easier to use than a photographic one, even if the accuracy cannot be quite as good -- photos do not always look like the view in the telescope, they are far harsher, and the shading often affects your perception enough to confuse some features (the author did include photos of some of the more prominent features). The book obviously shows considerable love for the science and patience, which are terrific qualities for any observer to take to the eyepiece. -The atlas is also divided up into small sections which makes it more enjoyable to plan a "visit," with plenty of description about the people for whom the craters are named (of course, one can never be satisfied that enough features are named). Users of both small and large telescopes can enjoy using this book. The author has complemented his research with a good bibliography, comprehensive charts, and a brief description of the art and science of observing the moon. Surprisingly, and disappointingly, he gives very little description about his work in drawing the lunar features or general astronomical sketching, which in my opinion is a missed opportunity to add some charm and value to an already aesthetic book. He also says little about some of the pre-scientific ideas and musings about this object which has captivated and enriched the imaginations, as well as the mind, of so many people for so much of our history. Well, there are other sources, but it would have been nice to have the artist's perspective. -Observational astronomers often complain about the moon as a source of light pollution. So did I, until I decided to join in and enjoy what I couldn't change (the moon is also less subject to the many vagarities of astronomical seeing). This is a superb book to use with either a small or a large telescope and the rich artwork will add to your enjoyment of one of our most beautiful astronomical companions. May the moon brightly "light up" your observing.

If you are a serious lunar observer, this book belongs on your shelf. An absolute must since so many other refferences rely on it. The problem of red ink has been corrected in this edition. Get two copies: one for scope-side use, the other as a desk refference.

I have used this book and several other moon maps and atlases, including the highly respected "Hatfield Photographic Atlas". I find that this is the book that I keep coming back to. I prefer the highly detailed drawings in this format over photographs since they are unaffected by the lunar phase. The book is also has a very well thought out index and cross reference. Highly recommended.

From full charts to detailed renderings, this book has the best information in the best form available for systematic observation of the Moon. This is the book to buy if an authoritative reference is needed or detailed observing of the Moon is undertaken with amateur telescopes, small or large. There is plenty of information on the Moon to read, along with the many sectional drawings and photographs of prominent and unique features.

"Atlas of the Moon" is an accurate and detailed work for persons interested in the visual pursuit of the moon. For anyone with a small telescope or giant binoculars, the detailed moon maps, displayed in a series of 76 individual close-up drawings, provide a wealth of moon topology. The book also groups lunar features and indexes for easy reference. For example, under "rupes--scarp," it lists Rupes Recta (the Straight Wall) on plate 54, along with other scarps. It does the same for other lunar features, such as craters, rilles, and mares--seas. Not only does "Atlas of the Moon" include 76 drawings, but it also has 50 photographs of diverse terrain, such as walled plains, craters, and valleys, to name just a few. I would recommend "Atlas of the Moon" for anyone who enjoys looking at the moon and wants to learn many of its detailed features.