Table of Contents

Foreword; Preface; Introduction: why observe the planets?; 1. The solar system; 2. The celestial sphere; 3. Telescopes and accessories; 4. The atmosphere and seeing; 5. Mercury; 6. Venus; 7. Mars; 8. The minor planets (asteroids); 9. Jupiter; 10. Saturn; 11. Uranus; 12. Neptune; 13. Pluto; 14. Constructing maps and planispheres; 15. Planetary photography and videography; 16. Photoelectric photometry of the minor planets, planets and their satellites; Name index; Subject index.

Promotional Information

An informative, up-to-date and well-illustrated practical guide to planetary observations for the amateur astronomer.

Reviews

'... [contains] a tremendous amount of useful information, and helpful advice ... a definite success ... valuable both to the beginner and to the serious planetary observer. I strongly recommend it.' Patrick Moore, New Scientist '... [contains] many pearls of information ... presented concisely with excellent illustrations ... a synopsis of historical observations provides excellent foundations for planning observational programs...' Donald Parker, Sky and Telescope 'This first-class introductory book ... is one of the best ... A great deal of invaluable information, factual and historical, has been condensed into this handbook ...'. Irish Astronomical Journal '... contains a wealth of information ... an excellent handbook on the planets. Recommended.' Reference Book Review 'The Planetary Observer's Handbook is a valuable source of information and advice for anyone interested in our planetary neighbours. It is an enthusiastic and well written work and I recommend it to both the beginner and the serious planetary observer.' Antony Brian, Astronomy Now 'Whether your interest is in simple visual observation, scientifically useful observing projects or anywhere in between The Planet Observer's Handbook is the book for you.' Astronomy and Space