Observer's Handbook 1994

Lisa Parsons is a freelance writer in Kingston, Ontario.

The Observer’s Handbook is an annual publication of the Royal
Astronomical Society of Canada. Aimed at astronomers ranging from
beginners to professionals, it is the most popular reference book of its
kind in Canada, and is also widely used in the United States.

Month-by-month descriptions of the sky list planetary coordinates and
astronomical events in brief, while more detailed information appears in
data tables—information that is necessary for anyone using equatorial
coordinates in his or her observing. Since the book is aimed at Canadian
and American astronomers, it applies almost exclusively to northern
latitudes and would not be appropriate for southern observers. Articles
accompanying the tables not only provide technical information but also
engage the reader’s interest in observing. The enthusiasm that most
astronomers feel for introducing beginners to observing is evident
throughout the book.

The arrangement of the Messier and NGC catalogues is very helpful for
planning observing sessions. Instead of being listed in numerical order,
the deep-sky objects appear according to season and location in the sky,
along with descriptions of each object and how difficult each is to
observe.

All of the information would be more easily accessible if the book
included a table of contents or a more detailed index. Margin symbols
mark the various sections of the book, but a table of contents would
allow the reader to find specific details more efficiently.

Along with observational data, the book contains information about
astrophysics and optical equipment, as well as moon and sky maps (which
are too small to be very useful). A number of sky atlases are listed in
the Further Reading section, along with other books and journals dealing
with astronomy. For the comet-hunting sharks who search the sky for new
objects, the Handbook includes instructions on reporting astronomical
discoveries.

The Observer’s Handbook is reliable and complete within the limits
imposed by its portable size. It is a practical reference tool for
astronomers of all levels of experience.