Stars (Collins Gem)

Amateur astronomers are always on the quest for the ultimate "grab-n-go" telescope; this is the ultimate "grab-n-go" star atlas. I use it more than all my others combined, partly because the diagrams are so wonderfully clear and partly because it slips into any pocket, even little shirtfront pockets that don't hold much. Covers all of the constellations in equal detail, so people who live in or visit the Southern Hemisphere aren't left out. For each constellation, there is a nice map showing the stars and major deep-sky objects, and text descriptions of both the constellation and its better observing targets (double stars, variable stars, galaxies, nebulas, clusters, etc.). Seriously, there is no reason not to own this handsome and useful little book, and no reason not to take it with you every time you head outside after dark. Put this in one pocket, a red flashlight in another, and your binoculars around your neck and you can keep going all night.

I was looking for a book with star charts that I could keep with my binoculars. This book is small enough to keep in the pocket of my binocular case. The charts are small, but very clear. I have come to really like this book. Even though this book is small in size, it is functional and easy to use. And it truly is "pocket sized."

This is a great, compact guide to use as a light reference on knowing the constellations. If you want in-depth coverage try Eyewitness Handbooks: Stars and Planets (Ridpath).