Orion Moon Map 260 | Orion Telescopes and Binoculars Orion Moon Map 260 | Orion Telescopes and Binoculars

• The meticulously detailed Moon Map 260 is a must-have for any backyard astronomer
• Map identifies over 260 lunar features including craters, valleys, ancient lava flows, mountain ranges, all successful US and Soviet lunar mission landing sites, and more
• Conveniently laminated for protection against dew, dirt, and the elements
• Measures 25.25″ x 11″ when fully unfolded, and folds up to 8.5″ x 11″ for easy portability
• Includes both correct-image and reversed “mirror image” maps of the Moon for easy use with binoculars, unaided eyes, or any telescope

Orion Moon Map 260 | Orion Telescopes and Binoculars

The bright face of our planet’s Moon has been inspiring astronomers for centuries. Since the Moon is much closer to Earth than any other object in the night sky, views of its illuminated surface are amazingly detailed when observed through binoculars or a telescope. Intriguing craters, craggy mountains, and vast “seas” of ancient lava flows make for wonderful targets for backyard astronomers. With the affordable Orion Moon Map 260, you can easily identify, locate and learn about the many interesting features of Earth’s only natural satellite.

The Moon Map identifies over 260 of the most popular lunar surface features including craters, mountain ranges, valleys, rilles, “seas” and more. Each feature is cross-referenced in the MoonMap’s tables with its official name, size and a brief description. In addition to lunar landscape features, all successful spacecraft landing sites from US Apollo, Surveyor and Ranger Probe missions as well as Soviet Luna Probe missions are also clearly identified on the map.

We’ve designed the Orion MoonMap 260 with versatility in mind. Both a correct-image and reversed, or “mirror image” view of the Moon are included on the map, so it can be used when observing the Moon with unaided eyes, binoculars; or any refractor, reflector, or Cassegrain telescope. The map is conveniently laminated for use in almost any weather.

Using the Moon Map 260 is easy. Simply find the reference number of the lunar feature you wish to identify on the map, and then look up its name using the map’s numerical index. Conversely, if you wish to locate a specific named feature with your telescope or binoculars, use the map’s numerical index to find the lunar feature’s reference number, then locate the number and feature on the map. For ease of use, the reference numbers are roughly ordered from north to south (top to bottom).

The Orion MoonMap 260 measures 25.25″ x 11″ when fully unfolded, and folds up to 8.5″ x 11″. The tri-fold MoonMap 260 is plastic laminated for long-lasting durability as well as protection against dew, dirt, and the occasional coffee spill.

Whether you’re an experienced amateur astronomer or a novice just beginning to explore the night sky, the MoonMap 260 will help you make each moonlit night more memorable. It’s a must-have for any of our fellow “Luna”tics!

Chandler Large Planisphere

The most popular versions of The Night Sky™ planisphere are the large and small plastic charts. These versions are made in the USA using durable plastic facing for the front and back and are secured with no-corrosion brass rivets. These planispheres are built to last; you will probably go through several telescope upgrades in your lifetime but will never need to upgrade your planisphere.

How it Works:

The Night Sky Planisphere is made up of 2 sections -- an inner rotating dial (white) marked with the days and months of the year, and a fixed outer section (blue) marked with the hours of the day.
The dial contains a sky map printed with dark stars on a light background for easy nighttime readability. To use the planisphere simply turn the dial to match the date with the time you are looking at the night sky. The planisphere will then show the stars, constellations, and prominent deep-sky objects that are currently above the horizon as well as the location of the Milky Way. It works for any hour, of any day, of any year!

The Chandler Large Planisphere is unique because it uses a two-sided projection to reduce sky distortion -- conventional planispheres severely distort the sky near the southern horizon.

The Chandler Large Planisphere is made from a plastic laminate so it won't get damp and wrinkly when used outside in the night air.

• Unlike coffee-table planispheres, The Chandler Larger Planisphere is printed with dark stars on a light background, for easy nighttime readability.
• The constellations are drawn simply, emphasizing the brighter stars which makes them easy to recognize and locate with the naked eye or entry level equipment.
• Coordinate grid lines are shown without being intrusive. Coordinates are shown because they can be useful for cross referencing with star atlases.
• A selection of deep sky objects for binocular viewing is included. It is important to point out to beginners that the best first telescope is a pair of binoculars. You may already have what it takes to start observing tonight!

Suitable for use in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina & Chile.

Double-sided Planisphere for the Southern Hemisphere. Now comes in clear PVC plastic printed in black.

Have you ever wanted to explore Mars, the planet next door to our own? With this detailed Map, you finally can- as complete as it can be with our current knowledge of the Martian terrain, the Orion Mars Map and Observing guide will be of great aid in locating and identifying the many intriguing martian features there are to find on this planet. This useful tool is ideal for any amateur astronomer looking to get more out of their telescopic observations of Mars- the map not only identifies the classical albedo features observable through a telescope, it also identifies over 150 Martian Features using modern nomenclature. Throughout the tri-fold of the map and observation guide, you can find heaps of information on the dust clouds and storms, polar ice caps, and seasons of Mars. The guide also includes information on optimal filters recommended to help enhance visual views and photos of mars- and to top it all of, it contains a detailed list of all upcoming conjunction and opposition events

Based on the award-winning The Australian Bird Guide, this compact format features over 700 bird species that are residents of or regular visitors to the Australian mainland and Tasmania, and surrounding seas.

The Compact Australian Bird Guide will appeal to both the beginner and experienced birdwatcher, and includes up-to-date species descriptions, distribution maps, illustrations and quick guide comparison pages for major groups. Ideal for your next holiday, field trip or simply to use in your own backyard.

Reviews:

"The compact guide admirably fulfils its stated purpose of being a concise and portable field guide for experienced ornithologists and an aid for the newcomer to bird watching in Australia (including overseas visitors) in making rapid, accurate field identifications without being swamped by too much detail."
Alan Lill, Association of Field Ornithologists, 17 April 2023

"This book is perfect for use in the field, for all levels of birdwatching skill, and its comprehensive content makes it perfect for resident and visiting birdwatchers alike."
Jonathan T. Coleman, International Journal of Avian Science, 2023

"It fits easily into a day-pack and can be quickly deployed, even when one is handling binoculars, a notebook, camera and other birding paraphernalia. <...> It is well-made well-bound and hard-wearing. It is clearly made for the tough Australian conditions"
Canberra Bird Notes, December 2022

"While the dazzling diversity of Australia's birds is something to be celebrated, it can all be a little overwhelming for someone who is new to birds. The Compact Australian Bird Guide achieves the delicate balance of being comprehensive yet concise, accurate yet accessible. The straightforward layout, succinct text and beautiful illustrations allow for a greater appreciation and understanding of Australian birds. For the novice bird lover, The Compact Australian Bird Guide will unlock the mysteries of Australian bird identification and for the seasoned birder it will be like seeing the familiar with fresh eyes."
Sean Dooley, BirdLife Australia

"This book succeeds splendidly as a compact aid to bird identification. Congratulations to all concerned and highly recommended as a valuable, proper and convenient, field identification guide"
Clifford B. Frith, Peter S. Valentine, Australian Field Ornithology (39), 2022

"This compact book is designed to provide beginners and experienced birdwatchers with a convenient, quick and beautifully illustrated identification guide to more than 700 bird species that are residents of or regular visitors to the Australian mainland and Tasmania, and surrounding seas."
The Gardens, Summer 2023

"This user-friendly, beautifully illustrated book is a guide to all bird species commonly found in Australia. Featuring more than 700 bird species that are residents of, or regular visitors to, Australia’s mainland, Tasmania and its surrounding oceans, this is a useful quick reference guide for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers."
Gardening Australia, September 2022

"I love big field guides. But I do not love lugging them around in the field, or on airplanes, or on long hikes. That’s why I’m absolutely delighted with the new Compact Australian Bird Guide."
Justine E. Hausheer, The Nature Conservancy (Blog: Cool Green Science), 3 October 2022

"Whether you’re a dedicated birder, someone with passing interest who wants a straightforward reference, or you’re a beginner keen to build knowledge, The Compact Australian Bird Guide is a first-class asset."
R M Williams, Outback, November 2022

The Chandler Small Planisphere is made up of 2 sections -- an inner rotating dial (white) marked with the days and months of the year, and a fixed outer section (blue) marked with the hours of the day.
The dial contains a sky map printed with dark stars on a light background for easy nighttime readability. To use the planisphere simply turn the dial to match the date with the time you are looking at the night sky. The planisphere will then show the stars, constellations, and prominent deep-sky objects that are currently above the horizon as well as the location of the Milky Way. It works for any hour, of any day, of any year!

• Unlike coffee-table planispheres, The Night Sky is printed with dark stars on a light background, for easy nighttime readability.
• The constellations are drawn simply, emphasizing the brighter stars which makes them easy to recognize and locate with the naked eye or entry level equipment.
• Coordinate grid lines are shown without being intrusive. Coordinates are shown because they can be useful for cross referencing with star atlases.
• A selection of deep sky objects for binocular viewing is included. It is important to point out to beginners that the best first telescope is a pair of binoculars. You may already have what it takes to start observing tonight!

The Chandler Small Planisphere is unique because it uses a two-sided projection to reduce sky distortion -- conventional planispheres severely distort the sky near the southern horizon.

The Chandler Small Planisphere is made from a plastic laminate so it won't get damp and wrinkly when used outside in the night air.

Suitable for use in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina, Chile and smaller Pacific Islands.

This Revised Edition includes updated maps, artwork and species accounts, reflecting current knowledge of the biology and distribution of Australia's birds. It features around 4700 specially commissioned colour illustrations of over 900 species, with particular emphasis on providing the fine detail required to identify difficult groups and distinctive plumages. Comprehensive species accounts have been written by a dedicated team of ornithologists to ensure identification details, distribution and status are current and accurate. A new easier-to-use index is also included.

The Australian Bird Guide sets a new standard in field guides, providing an indispensable reference for all birders and naturalists looking to explore Australia's magnificent and unique birdlife.

Winner, The 2017 RZS NSW Whitley Medal
Winner, The 2018 Australian Book Industry Awards: Small Publishers' Adult Book of the Year

Reviews:

"Like looking through a new pair of binoculars, The Australian Bird Guide makes it seem like you are seeing even familiar birds for the first time."
Sean Dooley, Editor, Australian Birdlife

"This field guide is an invaluable reference for anyone with an interest in this country’s birdlife."
Gardening Australia, November 2019

"Books, such as The Australian Bird Guide, are important for the conservation of Australia’s flora and fauna; they bring nature to people and enable everyone to identify and take joy in the birds, other animals, and plants that we share the world with."
Harry F. Recher, Pacific Conservation Biology 26(1) 2020

Reviews of the First Edition (May 2017):

"a gorgeous lure to spend more time in nature."
Susan Wyndham, "2017 Books of the Year", Australian Book Review #397, December 2017

"The illustrations are amazing. Each is the purest and most accurate depiction of a species possible: the absolute platonic ideal of itself... makes me yearn — to see more birds, to note obscure plumage details, to plan holidays to see farther-flung species. This book reinvigorates my love of birds and birding and makes clear how lucky we are to have such amazing riches. And that is some powerful art."
Kate-Gorringe-Smith, Australian Birdlife, June 2017

"Not only does The Australian Bird Guide successfully provide a rich, contemporary bird identification book, it has the potential to play a far more significant cultural role – in cataloguing the full extent of the glorious variety of Australian birds it becomes a palpable celebration of the wonder of nature."
Sean Dooley, Sydney Morning Herald online, 28/7/17

"If you are looking at getting a field guide to the birds of Australia, the ABG is undoubtably the best."
Michael Szabo, Birds New Zealand (14), June 2017

"Compared with all other Australian bird guides, the text and most of the illustrations are on a higher level... The cornucopia of high quality illustrations – including numerous smaller sketch-ups illustrating such things as foraging behaviours, honeyeater corroborees, and size comparisons with similar possible species – puts the guide in the upper echelon of bird guides globally... For me, this volume by Menkhorst and colleagues has become my new favourite."
Eliot Miller, Emu - Austral Ornithology 117(3), July 2017

"Birds are illustrated in poses that best highlight diagnostic features. Seabirds are depicted almost exclusively in flight, precisely as most will encounter them at sea. The text is detailed without being too over-the-top, featuring all of the expected information and including helpful notes on recent taxonomic changes, distributional information that might be too granular to identify on the maps, and behavioural notes which might assist finding the bird and separating it from confusing species. The maps are clear and show all subspecies."
Chris Watson, Australian Birdlife, June 2017

"the ABG is undeniably the most comprehensive field guide to be published in Australia to date, surpassing previous guides in the quantity and accuracy of illustrations and pertinent information."
Richard Noske, Australian Book Review, October 2017

Celestron has joined forces with master lunar cartographer Ralph Aeschliman on a two-sided Moon Map. This quality map provides you a great way to familiarize yourself with the Moon, our neighboring world. Whether you are looking for Lacus, Maria, Montes, or Valles, the Moon map will help you navigate the lunar landscape with confidence. You can observe features with your telescope and locate them on the map or vice versa. This map also features a directory of all the key lunar regions with coordinates to find them.

On the reverse side of the map, there are close-up photos and information about the most exciting lunar regions to explore. You’ll also find images of the North and South polar regions for reference​. Refer to the lunar observing tips for practical information about using your telescope or binoculars to explore the Moon.

The Observer's Map of the Moon is waterproof, tear-resistant, and can be folded into an 20cm x 10cm size, making it easy to take along on your next camping trip, star party, or evening in your backyard. When not in use, the Moon map will be a stylish decorative poster on your wall. It makes a great display for your classroom or astronomy club.

Whether you are just beginning or an advanced observer, you will find yourself viewing the Moon again and again; have the Observer's Map of the Moon be your guide.

The largest planet in our solar system is a joy to explore with a telescope, and the Orion Jupiter Map & Observing Guide is loaded with educational information and tips to help you get the most out of each and every view of Jupiter. With its bold equatorial cloud belts and swirling storms including the famous Great Red Spot, the planet Jupiter is an ideal telescopic target for beginners and experienced stargazers alike. The Orion Jupiter Map & Observing Guide is packed with observing tips, filter recommendations for viewing and imaging Jupiter, and features beautifully detailed images of the gas giant planet. Use it along with your telescope to identify Jovian atmospheric features including belts, zones, regions, and bright and dark features using official nomenclature.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol 9 is a comprehensive reference that guides amateur and semipro astronomers into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisals of prominent stars and celestial objects.

This volume is dedicated to the Milky Way’s nearest and largest satellite galaxies, the Magellanic Clouds. Throughout history they have been the subject of awe and wonder, catching the eye of Indigenous peoples of Australia and New Zealand, 16th century mariners, and astronomy’s pioneer observers such as Nicolas-Louis de Lacaille, James Dunlop, and John Herschel. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, northern astronomers began traveling to the Southern Hemisphere to photograph, map out, and study the celestial constituents of what they referred to as Nubecula Major and Nubecula Minor. This book presents not only a thorough historical account of the clouds dating back 40,000 years, but also how astronomers’ ideas of the Clouds have changed over the decades — particularly on the Clouds’ origins, interactions with the Milky Way, and the quizzical aspects of star formation posed by their many unusual clusters and H II regions. Come discover the observational richness and astrophysical conundrums that are the Magellanic Clouds, true treasure islands lying just beyond our Galactic shores.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol 9 also includes two special fold-out maps for exploring the Magellanic Clouds in more detail, one showing the Large Magellanic Cloud and the other the Small Magellanic Cloud plus extra detail on the Tarantula Nebula, the star-forming region also known as 30 Doradus.

Author Jeff Kanipe has released the latest edition of this great series and for those of us in the South we are blessed. Volume 9 covers the Magellanic Clouds. Definitely will be in my Library of Southern Hemisphere books, can’t wait.

SKU:WBANN9

The affordable Orion Saturn Map & Observing Guide is a wonderful tool for backyard astronomers of all skill levels who want to enrich their observations and understanding of this unique gas giant planet and its spectacular ring system. We've packed the tri-fold Saturn Map & Observing Guide with beautiful images and useful tips to help you get the most out of each view of Saturn. With this Map & Observing Guide at your side, you'll learn interesting information about Saturn's many moons, its extensive ring system, ring tilt cycle, and more. The Map will help you learn to identify light and dark atmospheric features of Saturn using official nomenclature. You'll appreciate the thorough list of recommended filters to help enhance visual views and astrophotos of Saturn, and the detailed list of all upcoming conjunctions and oppositions of Saturn from 2014 through 2020 will help you plan ahead to catch these interesting events.

The Saturn Map & Observing Guide measures 25.25" x 11" when fully unfolded, and folds up to 8.5" x 11". The tri-fold Saturn Map & Observing Guide is plastic laminated for long-lasting durability as well as protection against dew, dirt, and the occasional coffee spill.

• Includes lists of all Saturn oppositions, observable conjunctions from 2014 to 2020
• Lists best filters for visual observation and astrophotography of Saturn
• Plastic-laminated for durability, the Saturn Map measures 25.25" x 11" when fully unfolded, and folds up to 8.5" x 11" for easy portability

This 10 map atlas of the night sky is drawn by Wil Tirion and is based upon the Hipparcos and Tycho Catalogs with a stellar limiting magnitude of 6.5.

Opposite each full page map Brian Skiff of the Lowell Observatory has prepared a tabular listing of interesting objects visible in binoculars or small telescopes. These include galaxies, open clusters, diffuse nebulae, bright nebulae, planetary nebulae, double stars, and variable stars.

Atlas includes a set of seasonal star maps to help orient the user to the night sky throughout practically the entire populated world. Objects in Skiff's catalog are also listed in cross referenced tables. Ideal companion atlas to the larger Sky Atlas 2000.0 or Uranometria 2000.0.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol 4 : A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe and Dennis Webb

“At last: the sky guide we’ve been waiting for! Annals of the Deep Sky melds through-the-eyepiece observing with up-to-date 21st century astrophysics. Its highly readable format should appeal to observers and non-observers alike. ..... operates at many levels. To the novice, it provides guidance and inspiration, offering both basic background and knowledge to grow with. It provides enrichment for established amateurs, pointing out new directions to pursue. And it offers an up-to-date, one-stop astrophysical reference for advanced observers who aspire to contribute to science.”

358 pages, 158 illustrations, softbound.

Covers Canis Minor, Capricornus, Carina, and Cassiopeia.

The newest handbook for Deep-Sky observers.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol 4: Foreward

We are happy and proud to present volume four of Annals of the Deep Sky, in which we continue our survey of prominent stars and deep-sky objects in all 88 constellations. With this volume, we are approaching a quarter of the way to completion, though, speaking realistically, we know we have only just begun.... Among the numerous reviews, online discussion boards, and remarks from star party attendees, we’ve not heard one discouraging word. Most gratifying was the reader who likened receiving a new volume to embarking on a journey of exploration.

Readers may not be aware of this, but our labors on this series have taken us on an exciting journey as well. If you dig deeply into almost any subject you come across interesting tid-bits sooner or later, but when the subject is the universe, one never ceases to be amazed. For us, it is a constant state of being. Each day we come across some eye-opening perspective that allows us to depict the celestial objects we profile as real, physical entities, not abstractions removed across vast gulfs of space.

We strive to present stars, nebulae, and galaxies as objects you can pick up and examine as you would an interesting shell or piece of driftwood on the beach, except that we also relate how the shell or driftwood got there, why it has its unique shape, and what form it will take over time. Our discoveries are your discoveries, as is our surprise and astonishment.

This volume spotlights four constellations: Canis Minor, Capricornus, Carina and Cassiopeia.

Canis Minor

Canis Minor is not often at the top of anyone’s observing list, but like its bigger brother, Canis Major, it contains a prominent first-magnitude star, Procyon, with a white dwarf companion nearly hidden in the primary’s glare. The orbit of Procyon B itself is nearly circular, but the periastron and the apastron junctures are rather extreme, ranging from a minimum distance of 9 AU to a maximum of 21AU. Given that apastron occurs sometime around the year 2027, now is a good time to begin looking for Procyon B.

Procyon has been studied using the rapidly developing technique of asteroseismology, the analysis of stellar oscillations....Starlight tells us much about a star’s temperature and chemical makeup, but asteroseismology allows us to view the star from the inside out. A running theme in the Galactic section of Canis Minor isthe number of asterisms and suspect star clusters to be found within its bounds. NGC 2394 is one of these. Although most research suggests it is not a real cluster, other studies contradict this conclusion....

Capricornus

Capricornus is another low-profile constellation, but it does contain Dabih (β Capricorni) that forms a quadruple system definitely worth telescopic scrutiny. Without doubt, the jewel of the Sea Goat is the globular cluster M30, an old object with an extremely dense core and radiating star chains. It is thought that the central density may exceed a million stars per cubic parsec, making it one of the highest-density environments in the Galaxy. Life forms living on a planet in such a locale would never know a night sky, except, perhaps, under rare conditions, reminding us of Isaac Asimov’s science fiction short story, “Nightfall.”
For the galaxy enthusiast, Capricornus also features a double galaxy, NGC 6907 and NGC6908. The larger system, NGC6907, is an easy find, but see if you can spot its companion, “hidden” in the other’s easternmost spiral arm.

Carina

Our next starry fare is Carina, the Keel, formerly known as Argo Navis. What can we say about this sprawling and incredibly bountiful constellation? Dennis has deemed it our masterpiece, and truth be told, there is no shortage of celestial marvels to chronicle and illustrate. We think it safe to say (as much as modesty allows) that our review of the uncanny, volatile star Eta Carinae is one of the more comprehensive available in the popular literature today. Given its enduring observational history and abundance of cutting-edge research, it is deserving of its own book length treatment. Be sure to check out our three-dimensional presentation of the curious bipolar nebula encompassing this star, called the Homunculus, as well as the star’s laser emission and light echoes from the “Great Eruption” in the 1840s.

Of course, there are numerous other objects to explore in Carina, not the least of which is the Carina Nebula (NGC 3372), which lies just east of the dark, hourglass-shaped Keyhole Nebula; NGC 2516, also known as the Southern Beehive; the planetary NGC 2867 with its hot Wolf-Rayet central star; and the extremely rich globular cluster NGC 2808. The southern regionof Carina, away from the Milky Way, also harbors a number of fascinating galaxies, including the pair IC 2554 and NGC 3136B, NGC 3136, a bright elliptical with some internal structure, and, for imagers, an intriguing face-on spiral, NGC 3059.

Cassiopeia

Given its location immersed in the northern Milky Way, Cassiopeia features myriad stars and nonstellar objects of all kinds. Among the former, we offer Caph (β Cassiopeiae), the brightest member of the class of Delta Scuti stars, four Mira-type variables, the triple star Iota (ι) Cassiopeiae, and the massive binary AO Cassiopeiae. Of the latter selection, we include the young planetary nebula IC 289, the bright open clusters M52 and M103, and the extensive star-forming region (with associated star cluster) IC 1805.

In the northern part of the constellation, we find two satellites of the Andromeda Galaxy, the dwarf ellipticals NGC 185 and NGC 147. Those with an abiding interest in the history and on going research into the supernovae remnants Tycho’s Star (SN 1572) and Cassiopeia A will find plenty to mull over, as well as a sidebar on the eccentric Tycho himself. If each volume is truly like a journey of exploration, we hope you think of us as travel guides, pointing out the most interesting aspects of the astr onomical sights we encounter. We are all at the beginning of an adventure without comparison, and without end.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol 1 A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe and Dennis Webb

“At last: the sky guide we’ve been waiting for! Annals of the Deep Sky melds through-the-eyepiece observing with up-to-date 21st century astrophysics. Its highly readable format should appeal to observers and non-observers alike. ..... operates at many levels. To the novice, it provides guidance and inspiration, offering both basic background and knowledge to grow with. It provides enrichment for established amateurs, pointing out new directions to pursue. And it offers an up-to-date, one-stop astrophysical reference for advanced observers who aspire to contribute to science.”

358Pages 158 illustrations, softbound.

Covers Andromeda, Antlia, Apus, and Aquarius plus Introductions to Basic Astronomy and Astrophysics.

Annals of the Deep Sky Vol 10 explores the constellations of Draco, Equuleus, Eridanus and Fornax, each with a bounty of fascinating stars and nonstellar objects. Draco contains numerous double stars, such as the wide pair Nu Draconis, two fifth-magnitude stars that look alike but are nonetheless very different. One of Draco’s most popular deep-sky objects is the Cat’s Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), the first planetary nebula to be decoded spectroscopically, by William Huggins in 1910. Modest Equuleus can at least boast the spiral galaxy NGC 7040, discovered by Mark Walrod Harrington in 1882. We include a brief, but strange, backstory of Harrington. Eridanus, too, may be a small constellation but it contains the intriguing galactic group associated with NGC 1723 and a “lopsided” galaxy, NGC 1637. Fornax is replete with interesting galaxies, including NGC 1097 with its peculiar nucleus, the shell system NGC 1344, and the “three-ringed” galaxy NGC 1326. And don’t neglect S Fornacis, an odd sun that occasionally exhibits superflares.

Annals of the Deep Sky is a comprehensive reference that guides amateur and semipro astronomers into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisals of prominent stars and celestial objects.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol. 2 : A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe and Dennis Webb

“At last: the sky guide we’ve been waiting for! Annals of the Deep Sky melds through-the-eyepiece observing with up-to-date 21st century astrophysics. Its highly readable format should appeal to observers and non-observers alike. ..... operates at many levels. To the novice, it provides guidance and inspiration, offering both basic background and knowledge to grow with. It provides enrichment for established amateurs, pointing out new directions to pursue. And it offers an up-to-date, one-stop astrophysical reference for advanced observers who aspire to contribute to science.”

344pages , 244 illustrations, softbound.

Covers Aquila, Ara, Aries, Auriga, Boötes, Caelum plus a 72-page Essential Terminology Glossary.

A rare look at the southern skies' greatest glories.

Pearls of the Southern Skies depicts 71 Deep Sky Objects photographed by renowned astrophotographer Dieter Willasch and described in detail by Auke Slotegraaf. The text and pictures are laid out season by season, and accompanied by 15 easy-to-use full-color location charts.

The celestial objects of the Southern Hemisphere are fascinating to astronomers everywhere. The southern stars, nebulae, and galaxies have exotic names like Omega Centauri, the Tarantula Nebula, Canopus, the Vela Supernova, the Coal Sack, and the Magellanic Clouds.

And there's more: the Southern Milky Way is crammed with clusters and nebulae of great interest to resident astronomers of the southern hemisphere, and to the many visitors from the north who relish the opportunities to view the clear, dark skies of the interiors of southern Africa and Australia with binoculars, telescopes and cameras.

Pearls of the Southern Skies depicts 71 Deep Sky Objects photographed by Dieter Willasch and described in detail by Auke Slotegraaf. The text and pictures are laid out season by season, and accompanied by 15 easy-to-use full-color location chart

Annals of the Deep Sky Vol 5 : A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe and Dennis Webb,

Volume 5 explores three very rich, and very different, constellations. Centaurus features a detailed overview of the Alpha Centauri system, descriptions of the Scorpius-Centaurus Association (the nearest OB affiliation to the Sun), and the stunning Omega Centauri globular cluster (NGC 5l39). Some time is also spent probing the many levels of the mysterious Centaurus A galaxy (NGC 5128), with its bizarre mixture of spiral and elliptical morphologies.

Cepheus may look dim to the unaided eye, but this constellation hosts some truly beautiful and beguiling objects. These include the star-forming region IC 1396 with its centerpiece, the Elephant Trunk Nebula (see cover image). We take a stroll down the Milky Way to visit several fine star clusters, some still associated with nebulosity, and other star-forming hotbeds.

Finally, Cetus leads us into a largely extragalactic realm where we find the nearby dwarf irregular IC l6l3, the edge-on spiral NGC 1055, and one of the brightest and nearest Seyfert 2 galaxies, M77. But the stars Mira and Tau Ceti are also on the itinerary, both of which have their stories to tell: one of a complex circumstellar environment, the other of possible extraterrestrial life.

We cannot visit these celestial marvels in our own hyperdrive spacecraft (yet), but Annals of the Deep Sky is the next best thing. Turn to page 1 and let it fly you across the universe.

Annals of the Deep Sky - Vol. 3 : A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe and Dennis Webb

“At last: the sky guide we’ve been waiting for! Annals of the Deep Sky melds through-the-eyepiece observing with up-to-date 21st century astrophysics. Its highly readable format should appeal to observers and non-observers alike. ..... operates at many levels. To the novice, it provides guidance and inspiration, offering both basic background and knowledge to grow with. It provides enrichment for established amateurs, pointing out new directions to pursue. And it offers an up-to-date, one-stop astrophysical reference for advanced observers who aspire to contribute to science.”

344pages, 199 illustrations, softbound.

Covers Cameloparadalis, Cancer, Canes Venatici, Canis Major plus Worlds of Discovery: The Search for Exoplanets.

By Jeff Kanipe 

Product information: Softbound, 6 by 9 inches, 432 pages, first published 2024, colour.

Annals of the Deep Sky is a comprehensive reference that guides amateur and semipro astronomers into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisals of prominent stars and celestial objects.

In Volume 11, we delve into the celestial smorgasbord found in the constellations Gemini, Grus, Hercules, Horologium, and Hydra. Featured objects include the open cluster M35 in Gemini, as well as the strange case of NGC 2371-72, one of the most unusual examples of a planetary nebula. The southern constellation Grus contains IC 5148, a large planetary nebula with an unusual inner-tube-like morphology, as well as the grand design, multi-armed spiral galaxy NGC 7424, which contains a number of enigmatic radio and X-ray sources. Hercules hosts the great globular clusters M13 and M92, of course, and imagers will want to target Abell 2151, the rich Hercules Cluster that links up with the Great Wall of galaxies. Horologium contains the remarkable star Gliese 1061, a solar neighbour harbouring a planetary system. And don’t forget to check out the globular cluster NGC 1261 and the stunning Seyfert galaxy NGC 1433. Finally, Hydra’s showcase object is the Southern Pinwheel Galaxy, M83; other attractions include the face-on multiarm spiral galaxy NGC 2835 and the spectacular pair NGC 3314A and B — two entwined galaxies with different orientations.

Since its first release in 1984, Simpson & Day's Field Guide to the Birds of Australia has established itself as a premier reference for bird enthusiasts in Australia. This guide stands out for its comprehensive coverage and authoritative content, making it a top choice among Australian birders and birdwatchers.

Enhance Your Birdwatching Skills
The guide offers detailed and thorough instructions on "How to Observe a Bird," providing practical hints for birdwatchers to improve their birding skills. It's an essential tool for both novice and experienced bird enthusiasts, designed to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of birdwatching.

A Visual Exploration of Australian Birds
With 132 superb full-colour plates, the guide presents all Australian bird species in vivid detail. These are complemented by over 900 black and white line illustrations, enriching the visual experience and aiding in accurate species identification.

Advanced Identification and Insights
The guide includes key points of identification using the latest classification system, enhancing your birdwatching experience with scientific precision. It also features specialised sections on seabird identification by bill, particularly useful for identifying species like albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters.

Comprehensive Birding Information
Beyond identification, the guide offers habitat descriptions and distribution maps for all species. It includes checklists for Australian Island Territories and provides in-depth information on breeding and breeding cycles. A "Key to Families" section allows for easy comparison and location of bird families.

Resource-Rich for Bird Enthusiasts
This guide is not only about identifying birds but also about connecting with the wider birdwatching community. It includes rare and vagrant bird bulletins, a core library list, easy-to-use indexes, a glossary of avian terms, and a list of birdwatching and naturalist organisations.

At a Glance
> Expert bird observation techniques
> Comprehensive species illustrations and identification tools
> Detailed habitat and distribution information
> Resources for connecting with the birdwatching community

This eighth edition has been revised and updated, including some beautiful new plates.

'The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia is a masterpiece of a guide and a comprehensive resource for birding in Australia.' Birdfreak

Annals of the Deep Sky Vol 8: A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe.

The Annals of the Deep Sky: A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects is a comprehensive reference that guides astronomy enthusiasts into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects in both the Northern and Southern hemisphere skies, including rarely observed objects and other celestial exotica. Incorporating the most recent findings in astrophysics and cosmology, deep historical context, and captivating illustrations and images, Annals provides readers with in-depth profiles of celestial objects beyond the solar system. The mission of every Annals volume is to guide observers on their own astronomical journey of exploration, whether it be at the eyepiece or from the comfort of a favorite chair on a rainy night. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisal of prominent celestial objects. We cannot visit these celestial marvels in our own hyperdrive spacecraft (yet), but Annals of the Deep Sky is the next best thing. Turn to page 1 and let it fly you across the universe.

Annals sorts the night sky into Galactic objects (those within the Milky Way) and extragalactic objects beyond our galaxy. Each chapter begins with an overall description of the pertinent constellation, its mythology if any, visibility, and overall appearance. From here, we move on to the building blocks of the Milky Way: stars in all their many forms, bright and dark nebulae, molecular clouds, star-forming regions, planetary nebulae, star clusters of every kind, and even the occasional telescopic asterism. Then, through the Milky Way framed by each constellation, we peer out into extragalactic space.

Volume 8 explores three of the most fascinating constellations in the night sky.

Cygnus is extremely rich, particularly in nebulae. Featured objects include popular favorites such as Chi Cygni, which has one of the largest visual amplitudes among Mira-class stars; P Cygni, a supernova in the making; the North America and Pelican nebulae; NGC 6888, the Crescent Nebula; and the radio galaxy Cygnus A.

Delphinus include the nova, HR Delphini; the bright globular clusters NGC 6394 and NGC 7006; and the galaxy groups of NGC 6928 and NGC 6956.

Dorado leads us into the wonders of the southern sky beginning with the close binary Alpha Doradus; R Doradus, known for having the largest apparent diameter of any star in the sky except the Sun; and the beautiful face-on spiral galaxy, NGC 1566.

About Secrets of Stargazing

About the Author

What constellations can you spot? Which planets make up our solar system? Why does the Moon seem to change shape? Children will have fun finding out the answers to these and many other space questions in this first guide to the stars. They will also enjoy playing with the stickers on the fold-out space scene at the back of the book as well as doing some out of this world colouring in.

Suitable for ages 4 to 8 years

The First Astronomers is the first book to reveal the rich knowledge of the stars and the planets held by First Peoples around the world.

The World of the Microscope is perfect for children years for anyone who has an interest in learning about the microscopic world.

The World of the Microscope investigates the enormous variety of objects too small for the eye to see, from insects, bacteria, to rock crystals and microchip circuits.

The Step-by-step diagrams will show you how to get the best results from a microscope and how to make and keep slides. The book covers different types of microscopes, from magnifying glasses to electron microscopes, and there are plenty of exciting suggestions for projects which reveal the incredible detail of everyday objects. The book also contains a section on the use of microscopes in science and industry.

By Jeff Kanipe 

Product information: Softbound, 6 by 9 inches, 432 pages, first published 2024, colour.

Annals of the Deep Sky is a comprehensive reference that guides amateur and semipro astronomers into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisals of prominent stars and celestial objects.

In volume 12 of Annals of the Deep Sky, explore the realms of Hydrus, Indus, Lacerta, Leo, Leo Minor, Lepus, Libra, and Lupus. Featured objects in Hydrus include NGC 602, a young version of the Orion Nebula, and NGC 1466, a bright, rich globular cluster. In Indus, the galaxy pair NGC 6935/6937 presents very different spiral-type morphologies. Lacerta harbors BL Lacertae, the prototype of a class of active galactic nuclei.

Leo includes the famous Leo Triplet and the striking pair M95 and M96, and Leo Minor includes the two interacting systems of Arp 107 and NGC 3395/3396. Lepus has R Leporis, the symbiotic star SS Leporis, and an incipient planetary nebula.  Libra includes the Algol-type variable Delta Librae, HD 140283, and NGC 5728, a triple-ringed Seyfert 2 galaxy.

Finally, Lupus hosts the Lupus Clouds, among the nearest low-mass star-forming regions; IC 4406, an edge-on planetary nebula; and NGC 5643, a grand design spiral galaxy with complex inner structure.

Maintaining its appealing style and presentation, the Yearbook of Astronomy 2026 contains comprehensive jargon-free monthly sky notes and an authoritative set of sky charts to enable backyard astronomers and sky gazers everywhere to plan their viewing of the year’s eclipses, comets, meteor showers and minor planets as well as detailing the phases of the Moon and visibility and locations of the planets throughout the year. To supplement all this is a variety of entertaining and informative articles, a feature for which the Yearbook of Astronomy is known.

Articles for the 2026 edition include:

• Recent Advances in Astronomy by Rod Hine
• Recent Advances in Solar System Exploration by Peter Rea
• Anniversaries in 2026 by Neil Haggath
• The Astronomers' Stars: Taking It to Extremes by Lynne Marie Stockman
• Hawking Stars by Andrew D. Santarelli and Matthew E. Caplan
• Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar and Professor A. S. Eddington by David M. Harland
• Planetary Protection: Keeping the Planets Safe from Earthly Bacteria by Peter Rea
• Nearby Worlds Out There: The Many Kinds of Exoplanet by John McCue
• Comets and Literature in the Nineteenth Century by Randall Stevenson
• On the Origin of NASA Names by Means of Imaginative Selection by Peter Rea
• Mission to Mars: Countdown to Building a Brave New World: Pausing for Thought by Martin Braddock
• A History of Observatory Designs: The Telescope Age from the Seventeenth to Nineteenth Centuries by Katrin Raynor
• Sidewalk Astronomy: Cosmos to Kerbside by Jonathan Powell

This iconic publication made its first appearance way back in 1962, shortly after the dawning of the Space Age. Now well into its seventh decade of production, the Yearbook continues to be essential reading for anyone lured and fascinated by the magic of astronomy and who has a desire to extend their knowledge of the Universe and the wonders to which it plays host. The Yearbook of Astronomy is indeed an inspiration to amateur and professional astronomers alike, and warrants a place on the bookshelf of all stargazers and watchers of the skies.

AUTHOR:
Brian Jones developed a fascination for astronomy at the age of five when he first saw the stars through a pair of binoculars, and his interest took him into the realms of writing sky guides for local newspapers, appearing on local radio and television, teaching astronomy and space in schools and, in 1985, becoming a full time astronomy and space writer. As well as being editor of the Yearbook of Astronomy since the 2017 edition, Brian has penned around 20 books to date which have covered a wide range of astronomy- and space-related topics for both children and adults. His passion for bringing an appreciation of the universe to his readers is reflected in his writing. The minor planet 45689 Brianjones is named after him.

100 colour illustrations

Let Lonely Planet take you further than ever before with the world's first and only travel guide to the Universe. Developed with the latest data from NASA, we take you from our home on Earth and out into the far reaches of the solar system, then into our neighbouring stars and planetary systems, and finally into the rest of our galaxy and the Universe.

This fascinating journey will help you explore space as you would the world with a Lonely Planet guide. Unique to these pages are wonderful comparisons of Earth with the other worlds of our solar system and even those exoplanets orbiting other stars.

You'll discover as much as we know about our celestial neighbourhood, and our place in it. In addition to planets and moons, get to know our Sun, explore the asteroid belt and the Kuiper Belt, and learn what lays beyond, in interstellar space. Outside our solar system, travel to some of the notable neighbouring stars, stellar systems and exoplanets we've discovered. You'll understand how we search for planets where life might exist and the stars they orbit.

Finally, discover the edge of the observable Universe. Get to know the structure of the Milky Way as well as an orientation to neighbouring galaxies like the Andromeda Galaxy which is visible from Earth. Then explore other galactic formations and learn about galactic clusters and superclusters. By the end of the book, you'll have a sense for the structure of the entire Universe as well as some of the big questions we still have as we ponder our place in it.

Raptors are popular and iconic birds, and are important ecologically, with some species listed as threatened. Yet they are among the most difficult birds to identify. This fully updated third edition of the popular and award-winning field guide Birds of Prey of Australia contains two sections: a field guide with distribution maps, detailed illustrations and information on identification; and a handbook which includes an overview of the current knowledge about raptors, including their biology, ecology and behaviour. An illustrated section on difficult-to-distinguish species pairs is also included, along with new photographs.

• Updated edition of this popular and award-winning field guide
• 'Bible' of raptor identification, providing current knowledge on the ecology and biology of these species
• New and improved photos
• Companion to the recently released Australian Birds of Prey in Flight, which aids identification of soaring raptors

Stephen Debus has studied or observed all 24 of Australia’s resident raptor species during the past 40 years, almost half of them intensively and some over many years. Awarded BirdLife Australia’s D.L. Serventy Medal for ornithological publication, his many works include the definitive field guide to this difficult group of birds.