Astronomy for dummies - Stephen P. Maran

The fun and easy way to explore the night sky

Do you know the difference between a red giant and a white dwarf? From asteroids to black holes, this easy-to-understand guide takes you on a grand tour of the universe. Featuring updated star maps, charts, and an insert with gorgeous full-color photographs, Astronomy For Dummies provides an easy-to-follow introduction to the night sky.

• See the light
  get pointers on observing sky objects with and without optics, selecting binoculars and telescopes, and positioning yourself for optimal viewing


• Wont you be my neighbor?
  take a tour of the collection of planets, moons, and planetary debris that orbits the Sun


• Meet some old sols
  find the best and brightest of the sky objects and enhance your connection to the universe by getting to know the life cycle of stars


• Ponder this
  explore thought-provoking concepts like the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the nature of dark matter and antimatter

Open the book and find:

• The difference between planets and stars


• Names of stars and constellations


• Terrific tools for observing the skies


• A tour of the solar system


• The scoop on the Big Bang theory and the evolution of the universe


• Full-color photos of spiral galaxies, nebulae, asteroids, and planets


• The 4-1-1 on black holes and quasars


• Astronomy clubs, websites, apps, and more

Learn to:

• Enjoy skywatching in your backyard


• Identify planets and stars


• Explore our solar system, the Milky Way, and beyond


• Understand the Big Bang, quasars, antimatter, and more