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This is a guide for anyone interested in practical astronomy but intimidated by the idea of investing in a telescope. It explores the world of remote observing, which requires nothing more than a laptop and an Internet connection. The book aims to make readers comfortable navigating the plethora of online equipment at their disposal and to show that a challenge like imaging the Messier objects can be fun, simple, and achievable for all.
In this text, all 110 Messier objects are discussed, each one remotely imaged with clear instructions on what telescope and camera combinations give the best results. Common astronomical phrases and units are all explained and illustrated to help newcomers get a grasp of terminology. Tidbits of history and quotes from Messier and other astronomers round out this beginner-friendly read, which also features a handy Quick Reference Image Library.
List of contents
Preface.- Part 1: Background and Resources.- Chapter 1: Introduction.- Chapter 2: Observatories and Telescopes.- Part 2: The 110 Messier Objects: Images and Corresponding Data.- Chapter 3: Messier 1 to Messier 36.- Chapter 4: Messier 37 to Messier 74.- Chapter 5: Messier 75 to Messier 110.- Chapter 6: Quick Reference Image Library.- Index.
About the author
Len Adam holds a BSc degree from the University of Manchester. He has been a keen amateur astronomer for many years, using his backyard domed observatory in the UK and taking frequent trips with his truck full of equipment to observe in clear sky sites in southern Spain. He concentrates mainly on deep sky objects and has a particular interest in supernovae and star clusters. He has used remote telescopes in the USA, Europe and Australia to image nebulae, clusters, galaxies, supernovae and comets.
He is the co-author (with J.R. Nowicki ) of one book, Digital Circuits, published by Edward Arnold (Butterworth-Heinemann) in 1990.
Summary
This is a guide for anyone interested in practical astronomy but intimidated by the idea of investing in a telescope. It explores the world of remote observing, which requires nothing more than a laptop and an Internet connection. The book aims to make readers comfortable navigating the plethora of online equipment at their disposal and to show that a challenge like imaging the Messier objects can be fun, simple, and achievable for all.
In this text, all 110 Messier objects are discussed, each one remotely imaged with clear instructions on what telescope and camera combinations give the best results. Common astronomical phrases and units are all explained and illustrated to help newcomers get a grasp of terminology. Tidbits of history and quotes from Messier and other astronomers round out this beginner-friendly read, which also features a handy Quick Reference Image Library.
