Like many other amateur astronomers I’m a big fan of the Thompsons’s earlier book, Astronomy Hacks, and have been eagerly awaiting a sequel. Well, their new book is finally here -- and it was worth the wait!
As an observer’s guide, An Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders is not exactly a sequel to the earlier “tips and tools” volume, but it is written in the same simple and engaging style. Once again readers are treated to access to the Thompson’s vast experience in observing the heavens through binoculars and telescopes. Anecdotes about their own observations, coupled with comprehensive charts and diagrams, really simplify finding elusive objects, such as “faint fuzzy” galaxies and nebulae. Finding your target is the critical first step in every observing session, and can make the difference between a wonderful night and a frustrating experience. The illustrations of finder and eyepiece fields on the charts are particularly helpful, and the photos are unmistakable confirmation of what you see in the eyepiece.
The book is truly comprehensive, packed with over 500 pages of useful information. At the same time it is easy to use, as the data is arranged alphabetically by constellation name. In addition to the guide to 50 constellations, the book opens with an excellent introduction to deep sky observing, which those newer to the hobby will find especially useful. There is also a chapter on observing equipment in which the authors present the kind of practical and useful information fans of their earlier book have come to appreciate.
In short, this is a great book for the newbie and the experienced observer alike. It belongs on every amateur astronomer’s bookshelf – except when it’s being used in the field.
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