In the year 2003, Mars will be closer to Earth than it has ever been. This presents the best (and rare) opportunity to observe the Red Planet. This book is a well-illustrated resource created for the amateur astronomer. It covers everything that is needed to know to make the most of this unique occurrence.
The Mars Observer's Guide describes what equipment is needed to observe Mars and explains the various methods of recording what you can see: from simple sketches to CCD (charge-coupled devices) imaging.
Astronomers will also learn what to look for throughout 2003 and also in 2005 and 2007 when similar phenomena occur. The book goes beyond being an observational guide with an excellent general introduction to Mars. The planet's structure and key physical features are extensively described and illustrated.
The long history of its observation from Earth is also discussed, including the intriguing Martian canals controversy. The book addresses the various space missions to Mars -- past and future -- and contains fascinating images sent via space probes.
Mars Observer's Guide even considers the possibility of life on Mars which will encourage many current and would-be astronomers to diligently watch the Red Planet in 2003.
Foreword
by Richard McKim,
Director, BAA Mars Section
Chapter 1: Observing the Red Planet
- Mars myths
- Modern myths -- Mars in science fiction
Chapter 2: Mars as a Planet
- Orbit
- Martian geology
- Atmosphere
- Seasons
- Satellites
Chapter 3: Equipment basics
- The ideal planetary telescope
- Mountings
- Eyepieces
- Filters
- Other considerations
- Seeing
- Keeping a record
- Sketching
- Photography
- CCD imaging
- Video
Chapter 4: The View from Earth
- The telescopic view
- Mars in 2001
Chapter 5: Mars in 2003
- Highlights for telescopic observers in 2003
- Mars ephemeris for 2003
Chapter 6: Mars in 2005
- Highlights for telescopic observers in 2005
Chapter 7: Mars in 2007-8
- Highlights for telescopic observers in 2007-8
Chapter 8: Early Explorers
- Moving the Earth
- Early telescopic views
- The late 18th century
- The early 19th century
- Mid-19th-century observers
- Schiaparelli and the canals
- The canal controversy
Chapter 9: Space Age Mars
- Early missions
- Mariner 9
- Beyond Mariner
- The Vikings
- Back to Mars
- Mars Pathfinder
- Mars Global Surveyor
- Losses and recovery
- Missions for 2003-4
- Beyond 2004
Chapter 10: Life on Mars?
- Life on Earth -- and elsewhere?
- The Viking experiments
- Mars on Earth
- Antarctic meteorites
- ALH 84001
Glossary Appendix Index Acknowledgements
Overview
In the year 2003, Mars will be closer to Earth than it has ever been. This presents the best (and rare) opportunity to observe the Red Planet. This book is a well-illustrated resource created for the amateur astronomer. It covers everything that is needed to know to make the most of this unique occurrence.
The Mars Observer's Guide describes what equipment is needed to observe Mars and explains the various methods of recording what you can see:...