Constellation Guidebook

Over the few years that I've owned this book, it has proven to be one of the most consistently useful reference books in my library. I bought it because I am an astrologer who had, up to that point, been familiar mostly with computer models of the heavens and ephemeri, but wanted to begin learning to identify the major constellations, especially the zodiac, and the major stars by sight. I like that this book gives charts, useful information about how to find stars or constellations (such as the fact that the belt of Orion points to Sirius and other pointers like this), some of the meanings of the names of the stars, and even a little mythology and some beautiful photos of deep space objects. It also contains a good explanation of the precession of the equinox, a subject that can be confusing. I appreciate that this astronomical text, on the rare occasions when it does mention astrology, is non-judgemental (a nice change from some astronomers who are sometimes judgemental of astrology even though they have not actually studied the subject.)

As someone new to astronomy, I wanted to get a book that gave me an overview of all the constellations, what deep sky objects I would expect to find and where. Though this book doesn't deal with the planets or the moon, as far as the constellations go, I thought this book was a standout. From the alphabetical constellation maps (color-coded for each hemisphere) where every major star is named, to overviews of each constellation, to the illustrations! (no photographs) of major objects along with particular constellations, to mythological depictions from the Hevelius atlas, to the big dipper provided as scale, to advice and hints for beginning astronomers, to a general introduction to the celestial equator and star types, one is provided with a very good map of the night sky in a well designed format. There is lots here to keep a beginning stargazer occupied.

This is an excellent guide. An eye-catcher with nice diagrams, maps,charts and pictures that will help you to find your way in the sky. Useful wheter you are in the northern or southern hemisphere, the Guide provides easy to understand tips on how to locate stars and constellations on the celestial sphere from anywhere in the world. It has detailed celestial maps and sections for each constellation from Andromeda to Vulpecula, showing which stars will be visible through different types of telescopes. A pictorial section points out some of the best known deep space objects and how to find them, and it also contains some references to the lore and mythology of each constellation. A well done work and an informative an easy to handle Guidebook for everyone who wants to get familiar with the nightsky.

This book is a great review and description of the constellations. It explains their names, history and a description of what they mean. Be aware this is a reference book not a textbook. But if you enjoy sky watching this is a great field guide.

Full color throughout, this book details positions, deep-sky objects, history, lore, in short, everything about a constellation. Concise, the textual information is a bit brief, but the supporting illustrations, diagrams, and photos make up for the brevity. While the translation is a bit harsh and dry on occasion, it is clear.