Observing the Moon: The Modern Astronomer's Guide
Science writer North is full of useful information for backyard astronomers who would like to move to the next level in their observations of the earth's satellite. He opens with description (phases and eclipses, gravity and the tides) and history ("the pioneering selenographers"). Sections on telescopes, cameras, and CCD astrocameras follow, along with a chapter on "the desktop moon." The book's longest chapter is North's "`A to Z' of Selected Lunar Landscapes," which displays, with discussion, in detail 48 specific areas of the moon's surface. North closes with the controversial subject of "Lunar Transient Phenomena." Key advantages of North's volume include its practical focus--e.g., lots of advice on the strengths and weaknesses of various types of equipment--and its mix of vivid photographs (from, among others, NASA) and clarifying maps and charts. A useful addition to libraries' astronomy collections.Mary CarrollCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved