This guide provides comprehensive practical information for both beginning and advanced amateur astronomers on how to make scientifically significant observations. The book explains in detail how to observe every conceivable astronomical object--from meteors to distant galaxies. It presents a wide variety of methods ranging from the simplest visual observations, such as making pencil drawings of the surface of the Moon, to the use of highly sophisticated equipment, such as CCD cameras and photoelectric photometers. It also explains how to record and catalog observations using recognized...

How can you find new minor planets, comets and novae? How can you use photoelectric detectors to derive the temperatures of stars? And how can you predict future eclipses and occultations of stars by minor planets? The questions asked by serious amateur astronomers are answered in this guide. For each topic, sound practical methods of observation and the scientific background are given to lead you to better observations. Guidelines also show you how to record and catalogue your observations using the recognized professional terminology and classification schemes.

High-performance charged-couple device (CCD) cameras have opened up an exciting new window on the Universe for amateur astronomers. This book provides a complete, self-contained guide to choosing and using CCD cameras. Beginning with a no-nonsense introduction to CCD cameras, the authors explain what determines camera performance and demonstrate how to use a CCD camera and accurately calibrate the images obtained. The book also presents a clear review of the software available for visualizing, analyzing and processing digital images. Finally, the authors navigate a series of key areas in...

High-performance CCD cameras have opened up a new window on the Universe for amateur astronomers. This book provides a complete, self-contained guide to choosing and using CCD cameras. It begins with an introduction to how a CCD camera works and just what determines its performance. It then shows how to use a CCD camera and calibrate accurately the images obtained. A clear review is then provided of the software available for visualising, analyzing and processing digital images. Finally, it guides the reader through a series of key areas in astronomy where the best use of CCD cameras can be...