Summary

This Astronomers' Observing Guides are designed for practical amateur astronomers who not only want to observe, but want to know the details of exactly what they are looking at.

Nebulae are the places where the stars are born. For amateur astronomers, the many different kinds of nebulae vary from "easy" targets that can be seen with modest equipment under mediocre skies, to "challenging" objects that require experienced observers, large telescopes and excellent seeing.

The concept of the book - and of the series - is to present an up-to-date detailed description and categorisation (part one); and then (part two) to consider how best to successfully observe and record the large range of astronomical objects that fall under the general heading of "nebulae".

Nebulae and How to Observe Them is a mine of information for all levels of amateur observers, from the beginner to the experienced.

Choice Review

Coe has written an excellent how-to guide based on his years of observing nebulae in dark locations, mostly in the deserts of the western US. This volume is one in a series of "Astronomers' Observing Guides" intended for serious amateur astronomers. The first few chapters are devoted to the technology and techniques of observing with various telescopes, eyepieces, and filters. Helpful tips include the use of planetarium software and advice on how to dress warmly. Specifics, including the telescopes and eyepieces used to view each of about 40 nebulae, are given. For example, the Helix, a planetary nebula in Aquarius, was viewed with a six-inch f/6 Maksutov-Newtonian fitted with a 14 mm eyepiece and a UHC filter and then with a Celestron Nexstar 11 and a 35 Panoptic as well as a few other variations. The caption of each photograph helpfully includes the name of the photographer and the telescope used. An appendix lists hundreds of nebulae with catalog number, coordinates, and brief observing notes. Summing Up: Highly recommended. General readers. M. Dickinson formerly, Maine Maritime Academy