The Complete Guide to the Herschel Objects

Sir William Herschel's contributions to astronomy during the late eighteenth century are unrivalled. His lasting legacy is his dedicated all-sky survey of star clusters and nebulae, and these objects continue to be among the most studied in the night sky. This unique book provides a complete re-examination of Herschel's entire catalogue of non-stellar discoveries, making it the most accurate and up-to-date reference of its kind. Retrace the footsteps of one of history's greatest astronomers and explore every one of Herschel's landmark discoveries, including those considered to be lost or non-existent. Read detailed notes about each object's appearance and physical characteristics, and view hundreds of photos of the most intriguing Herschel objects, along with dozens of sketches of what is visible at the eyepiece. This superb book is a must-have for amateur astronomers seeking new and exciting observing challenges, and as the ultimate reference on the Herschel objects.

ISBN 0521768926   Pages 592 ISBN13 9780521768924 (What's this?)   Weight (grammes) 1400 Publisher Cambridge University Press   Published in Cambridge Imprint Cambridge University Press   Height (mm) 246 Format Hardback   Width (mm) 189 Publication date 15 Sep 2011   Spine width (mm) 30 DEWEY 523   Academic level General DEWEY edition DC22

Introduction; 1. The telescope maker; 2. The deep sky before Herschel; 3. Surveyor of the skies; 4. The Herschel catalogue; General references; Index.

Advance praise: 'Deep-sky observers will appreciate this comprehensive guide that offers clear descriptions of the visual telescopic appearance of each one of the over 2400 Herschel objects. Wisely using NGC designations throughout, author Mark Bratton has produced a meticulous and highly useful contribution to amateur astronomy. Highly recommended.' Terence Dickinson, Editor, SkyNews magazine 'Some books have already appeared about the 2500 deep sky objects discovered by William Herschel in the late eighteenth century, but Mark Bratton's The Complete Guide to the Herschel Objects is an exceptional one. It comprehensively covers the subject, giving an inspiring combination of history, theory and practical observing. The historical part describes the pre-Herschel findings, Herschel's telescopes, observing methods and his many discoveries. This valuable information establishes the basis for Bratton's own observations of the Herschel objects, made with various telescopes from different sites. The presented results show his great experience as a visual observer. This well organized book is an important tool for anyone interested in deep sky objects, both from the historical and practical point of view.' Wolfgang Steinicke, author of Observing and Cataloguing Nebulae and Star Clusters

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