The Observing Guide to the Messier Marathon: A Handbook and Atlas

By Don Machholz

The Messier Catalogue is a list of one hundred and ten galaxies, star clusters and nebulae, and includes many of the brightest and best-known objects in the sky. Amateur astronomers can challenge their abilities by attempting to find all the objects on the list in one night, and thus complete the Messier Marathon. This book contains over 90 easy-to-use star maps to guide the observer from one object to the next, and provides tips for a successful night of observing. The book also tells the story of the eighteenth-century astronomer, Charles Messier, and how he came to compile his extensive catalogue. This complete guide to the Messier Marathon will help the amateur astronomer to observe the Messier Objects throughout the year, using a small telescope or even a pair of binoculars.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521803861
• ISBN13: 9780521803861
• Release Date: November 2002
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 172 Pages
• Weight: 1.92 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 8.7" x 11.3"

Customer Reviews

Excellent addition to my growing astronomy book collection

This well thought out book is an excellent source for those of us who are pursuing the entire Messier catalog.Everything about it helps in the chase. Written in a manner that is not intimidating or too technical for those just starting out in amateur astronomy. Very helpful,interesting,and comprehensive. Can't go wrong with this one!Clear skies,all!!