Amateur astronomy is one of the most exciting non-athletic pastimes…It’s also potentially one of the most intimidating.
As an astronomy magazine columnist and space author, I’ve often thought “If only there was a way to make it easier”. Not user-friendly-guidebook-easier…Like, ordering-takeout-easier.
So I’ve written this guide, based on what people looking through my telescopes at events and public talks have asked for, starting with this 60-second intro the the universe:
While we might like to think we have time to learn all the constellations and operate computer-controlled telescopes, most of us will never get around to it, even if the idea excites us.
What we can all get around to is learning a constellation or two, finding out where a cool planet is tonight, or how to see a particular galaxy through binoculars - things that the following pages can help you learn about.
Then, when a truly big sky event comes up – one that makes the evening news, like a meteor shower or eclipse – you’ll be all-the-more excited to take part.
And at that point, maybe you’ll even share what you’ve learned with someone special.
- Peter McMahon, Port Hope, Ontario, Canada, May 2012