The Backyard Astronomer's Guide

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.

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 As far as I can see the only real issue is that technology changes so quickly that it might become out of date too quickly, but from what I can tell they do release updated editions occasionally.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.

When it arrived, I was surprised at the size and weight of this book. It's published in Canada by Firefly Books but the style and format remind me a bit of Dorling Kindersley. What I like about the book is its hands-on, practical and advisary style. The authors have definite views in terms of equipment and techniques and don't hesitate to give you their opinions (eg Canon DSLR cameras are preferred for astrophotography over Nikon, a view which might not go down too well with everyone). But as I say, it is an extremely good reference book for the newcomer to the hobby of astronomy. Note that there are no star charts so you will need to buy something like the Cambridge Star Atlas in order the find your way around the sky.

This is a great book (one of a series by the same author). It contains a lot of wisdom for not too much money. There is no getting away from the fact that serious astronomy is an expensive hobby but the knowledge and understanding gained will either prevent unnecessary purchases and/or replacements especially when you are new to the hobby.

I rally enjoyed ths book. It contains a lot of up to date information on all aspects of Astronomy, equipment, photography and of course the night sky. If you have a medium to detailed knowledge this book probably is not for you. I would recommend it to a friend though, and have no regrets about buying it.

I exaggerate for effect, of course but this publication is the DBs. It's written by Americans and the products mentioned and recommended are primarily aimed at the American market but most are available in the UK and those that aren't have equivalents (I think SkyWatcher products go by the name of 'Synta' in the 'States, for example). If you're thinking of taking up astronomy, your first purchase should be this book. You should then read the chapters on telescopes and eyepieces before spending a penny more - I kid you not; it'll save you from making expensive mistakes and buying something which is too cumbersome or complicated to see regular use. If you've already bought your 'scope and are thinking of adding more eyepieces or other accessories, again, buy this first and you'll discover that a larger finder scope or red-dot finder will enhance you viewing pleasure more than any fancy optics. If you're concerned that it might be out of date, fret ye not as it's been updated. It is, without question, the best amateur astronomy book I've ever encountered.

early days but is very interesting with lots of valuable info on telescopes. have a read yourself. amazon alllowed me to read the section i was interested in and then offered the book at a later visit. its fair to say i may never have come across the book otherwise.

This is a great book for those starting this hobby, it answers virtually all the questions a beginner asks. That said, it is also very informative for those of us who have been involved in astronomy for a while. Giving good explanations on how to upgrade with out falling into the various pitfalls many of us have dropped into. In all I would say that "The backyard Astronomer's Guide" is a very useful reference book to have to hand, one you can dip into as required, but also one you can read from cover to cover. Highly recommendable

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.

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 ordered The Backyard Astronomer's Guide solely on the advice which I'd seen given to beginners to the astronomy hobby by countless members in Cloudy Nights forums. When the package arrived (I got a notice from the post office because it was too big and couldn't fit in my mailbox) I was not expecting to receive it so soon, so did not know what I was collecting. I was totally surprised, first by the encyclopedic size of the book and after flipping through the 368 glossy pages, by the amount of content which is so relevant to all of those areas of astronomy and astro-photography that as a beginner, I'm eager to learn about. Robert Burnham's foreword got me all psyched up about the new knowledge promised in the pages to follow and his comment that "This is by far the best book I know of for helping anyone become a knowledgeable stargazer." could not have described the book any better. The book is very well laid out, excellent table of contents and comprehensive index make planning of reading sessions and finding specific information a breeze. Stunning photographs support very well written tips and techniques about almost every aspect of the hobby. Great value for money and a book that no new amateur astronomer should be without. This is not a book for the shelf, but for the sofa table where I can grab it whenever there's a spare moment!

Very good book. Covers the full range of astrophotography. Provides a lot of good tips and is well written. Recommend for anyone wanting to explore astrophotography.