Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters

by Kenneth Glyn Jones

Overview

Charles Messier's catalog of nebulae and star clusters, published in 1784, marked the start of a new era of deep-sky astronomy. Today, this tradition of observing galaxies and clusters is kept alive by dedicated amateur astronomers. Nearly all the objects are visible in a small telescope, and many, such as the Crab Nebula and the Andromeda galaxy, are among the most fascinating objects in the universe. Kenneth Glyn Jones has revised his definitive version of Messier's catalog. His own observations and drawings, together with maps and diagrams, make this a valuable introduction to deep-sky observing. Historical and astrophysical notes bring the science of these nebulae right up to date. This is a unique handbook, unlikely ever to be equaled in its completeness and importance to the telescope owner.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521058490
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	01/28/2008
Series:	Practical Astronomy Handbooks , #2
Edition description:	Revised
Pages:	448
Product dimensions:	7.36(w) x 9.45(h) x 0.87(d)

Table of Contents

List of tables and figures; Plates; Preface; Introduction; 1. Astronomical background to the Messier objects: the 'missing' and 'additional' objects; 2. The Messier objects classified; 3. Observing: equipment, conditions and method; 4. The Messier objects in detail (Nos. 1-104;) Biographical and historical; Maps and appendices; Index of names; Index of subjects; Index of objects.

Editorial Reviews

"...a treasure trove of detail about the Messier Objects....I highly recommend Kenneth Glyn Jones' Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters. It is a modern 'bible' for all those who wish to take an informed and leisurely tour of Messier's starry harvest!" José Olivarez, The Strolling Astronomer

"...of all the books devoted to the Messier objects, this is by far the most extensive....what sets this book apart from the others devoted to the Messier catalog is the amount of historical information. Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters is chock-full of background information that make this book indispensable as a reference....While I recommend the book, new observers may be put off by the size and amount of information included witthin. But they shouldn't be. Everything is written in an easy-to-understand, non-technical style. Furthermore, the book will be of interest to more advanced observers since it contains historical information not found in a single source." Mark J. Coco, Deep Sky

"Whether the observatory or the armchair is your preferred locale for astronomical contemplation, this book gets three stars ('worth the trip')." Owen Gingerich, Sky and Telescope

"...very well written and is up to the usual high standards of Cambridge University Press." Robert A. Seal, American Reference Books Annual

"Although the book is primarily addressed to amateur astronomers, professional astronomers will find the work useful for the historical introductions to the individual objects." R. H. Van Gent, Space Science Reviews

"...a very thorough and fascinating treatment of both the man and his catalog....Any observer who has marveled at the wonders contained within the Messier list will be fascinated to read the story behind it and the man behind the "M"!" Gordon Bond, The Practical Observer

From the Publisher