The Backyard Astronomer's Guide

I am not new to backyard astronomy but I have been away from it for many years and everything has changed since so I consider myself a beginner. I purchased several books to help me decide what type of telescope to purchase, of course no book should tell you to buy a specific scope but should arm you with enough information to be able to go ask the right questions when you go to buy a telescope. This book does that better than any other I have seen or read. It is written in a very conversational way that does not intimidate you with too much jargon that only seasoned astronomers understand. It is very complete in that it covers everything from first time purchases to proper use and most important - how to navigate the sky enough to get a good start with minimal frustration. They do tell you what to avoid and what are traditionally good bargins. The recommendations are very logical and straight forward. If you think you know what type of telescope to buy read this first, you may come away with options you had not considered. I am interested in astrophotography having done a fair amount of professional photography in motorsports I have a solid understanding but this is quite a bit different in many ways and the choice of scope makes a difference as well. This book really has been very helpful and will continue to be a good resource for some time. I suggest that you buy this book as this version was printed in 2010 so the info is still very relevant - most other books are a bit older and the technology is much better than just a few years ago - this book is current - a big plus if you are looking to buy a new scope. Well worth the price and highly recommended.

Easily the most comprehensive and clearly written practical primer on astronomy and star gazing. All the sections are laid out with intelligence and clarity, and the accompanying illustrations and photos are outstanding. Added to this there are bold recommendations and critiques of available equipment rather than bland comments seen in other astro how-to books. I appreciate that. Everything you need to know is here, not only to get you started but if you are rusty and making a return to star gazing this gem updates you on gaps since perhaps you last looked skywards, with a really good contemporary look at equipment and techniques, from observing planets to clusters to deep space objects. This book anticipates your yearning to learn and uncannily knows the kind of questions you want answered, whether you are simply star hopping, or getting deeper into the basic physics of astronomy. There is a very impressive guide to astrophotography too. This is an outstanding book in every way and super value. Highly recommended without reservation.

A well written, easy and informational resource for anyone interested in viewing the skies from wherever you are either in your backyard or a dark sky preserve. Packed with great information on equipment and accessories as well as detailed information about everything in our solar system. Congrats to the two authors who put this book together for all who wish to learn about our universe and enjoy the night sky. Just buy it!

I purchased the newest edition- A MUST HAVE for anyone who is serious in getting the BEST start to astronomy and backyard to Dark sky viewing. I love it and the photos are INCREDIBLE! AWESOME! Hope some time to meet the author and beg for an author's inscription with a special comment to me: SKYYE. lol

I honestly can't think of a single bad thing to say about this. As the title of my review says, it is ideal for anybody new to astronomy. It has information about equipment, techniques, what to look for and when to look for it. As far as I can see the only real issue is that technology changes so quickly that it might become out of date too quickly, but from what I can tell they do release updated editions occasionally. If you're thinking of becoming an amateur stargazer: read this. If you're thinking about buying a telescope: read this. If you have some equipment, but aren't really sure how to get going: read this. If you enjoy astronomy but simply aren't an expert, and wonder how to get more from your hobby: read this. If you're an expert with many years experience behind you: possibly not for you, but might be handy as a reference manual.