Hands-On Astronomy: A Cambridge Guide to Equipment and Accessories

by Hervé Burillier , Christophe Lehenaff , Translated by Klaus Brasch , With contributions by Michael Covington

• ISBN13: 9780521005982
• ISBN10: 0521005981
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-04-22
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

There is a vast range of astronomical equipment currently available to the amateur astronomer. This handbook presents the variety of telescopes, binoculars and accessories on the market, to help the amateur make an informed choice when buying equipment. All selection criteria are taken into account, including level of experience, budget, and observation site. Indispensable to those with a passion for practical astronomy, this handbook will help the complete beginner making his first purchase, and provide advice for the more experienced amateur wishing to upgrade his equipment.

Table of Contents

Foreword: a brief history of astronomical instruments

Part I. Basic Notions: 1. Characteristics of binoculars

2. Characteristics of refractors

3. Characteristics of Newtonian reflectors

4. Characteristics of the Schmidt, Cassegrain and Maksutov systems

5. The Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope

6. Optical characteristics of various instruments

7. Telescope mounts

Part II. Main Instruments: 8. Binoculars

9. Refractors for the beginner

10. Small reflecting telescopes

11. Mid-sized refractors

12. Telescopes to grow with

13. The 8 inch telescope

14. Large aperture telescopes

15. Apochromatic refractors

16. Compact instruments

Part III. Telescope Accessories: 17. Eyepieces

18. Diverse accessories

19. Filters

20. Motors and controls

21. Accessories for astrophotography

22. CCD cameras

23. Publications and star charts

Appendix

Bibliography.