Stars and Planets (Eyewitness Handbooks) - Softcover

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The clearest and sharpest recognition guides to the natural world, Eyewitness Handbooks make identification of individual animals, plants, minerals, and other phenomena sure, simple, and straightforward. Contained within each volume are superb annotated photographs or artworks accompanied by concise, informative descriptions of a wide range of species, breeds, or objects. Easy to use and beautiful to look at, Eyewitness Handbooks build into the definitive natural history library, essential to enthusiasts of all ages. END

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Authoritative text, hundreds of crystal-clear charts and photographs, and a simple, jargon-free approach make the Eyewitness Handbook of Stars and Planets the most accessible and comprehensive guide to observing the night sky, suitable both for beginners and more experienced astronomers.

Identification made easy Prepared in association with the Royal Greenwich Observatory, the superbly clear star charts can be used almost anywhere in the world to locate and identify constellations, individual stars, and deep-sky objects. Interesting and prominent features of the night sky are examined in a monthly guide, which is complemented by fascinating accounts of all 88 constellations and the objects they contain, including notable stars, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies.

In-depth visual approach Each of the planets in the Solar System is illustrated and described in detail, while the often complex process of locating planets in the night sky is made as simple as possible with unique charts and diagrams. For those new to astronomy, a highly visual introduction explains many of the basic concepts and offers expert advice on the best methods and equipment for observation. A concise glossary explains any scientific and technical terms used. END

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VIRGO: This is the largest constellation of the zodiac and the second largest of all the constellations. It lies on the celestial equator between Leo and Libra. The constellation is usually identified as Dike, the Greek Goddess of justice, or sometimes as Demeter, the corn goddess. Virgo is of particular interest because it contains the nearest large cluster of galaxies, the Virgo Cluster. The Sun passes through the constellation from September 16 to October 31. FEATURES OF INTEREST: Alpha Virginis (Spica). The brightest star in Virgo and, at magnitude 1.0, among the 20 brightest in the sky. It is a blue-white star, 260 light-years away. Spica is Latin for "ear of wheat", an object Virgo holds in her left hand. END TABLE OF CONTENTS: Introduction (How This Book Works, The Universe, What is a Star?, Star Families and Variable Stars, The Solar System, The Celestial Sphere, Star Names and Conventions, Observing the Stars, Binoculars and Telescopes, Astrophotography); The Solar System; The Planets; Comets and Meteors; Asteroids and Meteorites; The Constellations A-Z; Monthly Sky Guides; Glossary; Index. END