Objects in the Heavens

Objects in the Heavens brings together all deep-sky objects of mag 10 or less in a format that's convenient for use at-the-scope. Pocket-size astronomy field guide features all known deep-sky objects for telescope and binocular observation. All types of galaxies, clusters and nebulae were culled from every available catalog, organized and cross-referenced for ease of use at the viewing site. Object-oriented maps include special symbols to aid in identifying objects, stars, double stars and asterisms whether using a telescope or binoculars. Simple enough for the beginner; detailed for the advanced.
The digest-sized, spiral bound 5th Edition features 717 mag-10 or brighter deep-sky objects (not including 74 at >mag-10.5) viewable from the northern hemisphere, all with 1.2011 location data. Those objects of mag 7 and brighter - 189 ''city'' objects - are specially highlighted in the lists and in the 70 maps. Astronomical details are in ''expanded shorthand'' and set large for reading by flashlight. Newly included in the 5th Edition is a 7-page section for viewing the Moon through its daily phases, 160 double/multiple stars and brief constellation grouping stories to present a bigger picture; these stories have proven helpful teaching the sky to kids of all ages.
This multi-purpose guide is most convenient at the viewing site instead of carrying larger, bulkier books and computers, or as a companion to the larger sky atlases when planning a night's viewing. It's compact size makes it ideal for camping, hiking or in the car.
Objects in the Heavens - by Peter Birren
OITHv5.1 is available as of October 1, 2011 through the author's website.
128 pages; black coil; laminated covers; 5.5'' x 8.5''
US $24.95; 128 pages; ISBN: 978-1-55369-662-9