The essential guide that shows you how to get the most from your observations. For thousands of years observers have gazed up at the night sky and wondered at the celestial bodies that occupy the vastness of space. If you have ever wanted to learn more about such phenomena or just how to locate the major constellations and the planets this practical and accessible guide will provide all the information you need. A Complete Guide to the Night Sky Covering comets aurorae asteroids and nebulae as well as the moon stars and planets New Astronomer is fully illustrated with drawings and photographs. Detailed sky charts help you to navigate around the heavens and locate the major constellations stellar objects and the planets. For each of the planets there is a specially prepared map to help you pinpoint the exact location of each one up to the year 2010. A Planisphere is included that shows you the entire sky above your head for any time of night and for any time of the year. What to Use and How to Use it New Astronomer offers comprehensively detailed yet straightforward advice on choosing and using the very latest equipment including binoculars telescopes and accessories. It also shows you how to take photographs of celestial objects using an ordinary SLR camera linked to your astronomical equipment. For the real enthusiast this book features state-of-the-art technology such as computer-linked digital imaging. Whether you are already an experienced astronomer or just starting out this essential guide contains all you need to know.