54°12.0' N; 4°25' W

Astronomy books that I recommend

TURN LEFT AT ORION - Guy Consolmagno & Dan M. Davis

A guidebook for beginning amateur astronomers, Turn Left at Orion provides all the information you need to locate and observe a whole host of celestial objects. It is the only book available that I know with specific, object-by-object descriptions of how to find deep sky objects using only a small aperture telescope. Clear and easy to use, this fascinating book will appeal to astronomers of all ages and backgrounds. No previous knowledge of astronomy is needed.

Philip's Practical Astronomy

This practical illustrated guide is the ideal introduction to observational astronomy.
The first half, 'Beginning Astronomy', explains where, when and how to observe, what equipment to use and how to record your observations. The second section, 'Exploring the Sky', looks in more detail at all the objects the amateur can view, from objects in our Solar System to deep sky objects. It includes lists of interesting observational targets.

Philip's MOON MAP

A highly detailed large format map of the near side of the Moon showing more than 500 physical features that are named and indexed, so the observer can readily identify objects seen or aid a programme of observation. The chart includes a small map of the dark side of the Moon (never visible from the Earth) and full colour artworks explaining the Moon's orbit. The map is accompanied by a practical guide to lunar observing which is illustrated with diagrams and photographs.

Philip's STAR CHART

Philip's Star Chart shows the stars and constellations of the night sky in three superb maps: the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and the Equatorial region. All stars visible with the naked eye are shown, with fainter star clusters and nebulae marked for observers using binoculars or telescopes. Constellations, double stars and variable stars are listed, and an informative text explains how to use the charts all through the year, from any latitude.

Philip's DEEP SKY CHART

Philip's Deep Sky Chart shows the stars and Deep Sky objects in three superbmaps: the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and the Equatorial region. All stars visible with the naked eye are shown. Deep Sky objects, including all the Messier objects plus nearly a hundered of the most interesting other targets are clearly marked. Lists of galaxies, nebulae, planetary nebulae, double and multiple stars, open and globular clusters are provided. An informative text explains how to use the maps from anywhere on Earth at any time of the year. 

astrophotography for the amateur - Michael Covington

Suitable for beginners and advanced amateurs alike it's a complete guide to taking pictures of celestial objects with film and electronic detectors. Covington explains how to capture images of all types of celestial objects using available equipment and materials. Chapters cover CCD imaging and digital image processing, choosing a telescope and camera, and modern films. Includes exposure tables, film and filter specifications, and hundreds of photographs, many in colour.

vIDEO ASTRONOMY - Steve Massey, Thomas A Dobbins & Eric J Douglass

A thorough, comprehensive guide to capturing images of the night sky on video, this book is a must for any astronomer with a digital video camera or webcam. This book clearly and concisely explains how to acquire outstanding astronomical images with a simple, low-cost web cam. Nicely written, well-edited and well illustrated, Video Astronomy explains the equipment, techniques and methods used to capture images of the planets and Deep sky stuff. Very comprehensive.

I have personally read and still use the books listed.

I have no affiliation with any author or reseller of these books.