Books : Guide to the Stars
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Binding: Map
Dewey Decimal Number: 523
EAN: 9781928771012
ISBN: 1928771017
Label: Ken Press
Manufacturer: Ken Press
Publication Date: December 01, 2004
Publisher: Ken Press
Studio: Ken Press
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Editorial Review:
Product Description: This 16-inch diameter plastic Guide to the Stars chart is a ''map'' to help you identify the constellations. You simply dial-in your observing time and date to find the set of constellations visible in your sky (this is accomplished by rotating the clear top piece). This chart can be used for latitudes 30 to 60 degrees North, which covers the US and Canada. Although this chart is designed for beginners, it finds use with seasoned amateur astronomers. This type of round star chart is often called a planisphere because it takes a set of stars on a sphere and plots them on a flat surface.
The large 16-inch diameter size, similar in size to a large pizza, is easy to read and ideal for families, teachers and seniors. This chart can be used anywhere in the world between latitudes 30 and 60 degrees north including England, Europe, Northern China and Japan.
The front chart indicates 70 Constellations, the Names of 55 Stars, the Milky Way Band, the Ecliptic (which is the path of the Sun, Moon and Planets), the Summer Triangle, Winter/Summer Tours and 31 Galaxies, Star Clusters and Nebulae that can be observed with binoculars or a small telescope. Additionally, favorite star patterns are indicated, like the Great Square of Pegasus, the Sickle of Leo, the Northern Cross of Cygnus and others.
On the back side, there are useful tables and other astronomical information, including: Yearly Meteor Showers, Phases of the Moon, Facts about the Planets, A Short history of Astronomy, Information about the Binocular & Telescope Objects indicated on the chart, Additional Instructions for using the chart to identify the constellations and stars, and more.
PLANET NOTE. Most star charts, like this one, do not indicate, on the chart, the position of the Planets or Moon because these objects move through the constellations of the zodiac, along a path in the sky called the Ecliptic (indicated on the chart). The Moon moves at a rate of one Moon diameter per hour against the background stars. The visible Planets move much slower but movement can normally be seen over several days. Website support is provided to identify the planets that are visible in the sky.
This chart is also available in a smaller, 11-inch diameter size that is more suitable for travel (ISBN 1-928771-03-3). And, there is a very low price kid's version of this chart that is printed in color on sturdy card-like paper stock. The kid's version measures 11x11.25 inches and its ISBN is 1-928771-22-X.
Average Rating: 
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The Levy, Graun planisphere is excellent and a fine guide for nights under the stars. It is large, someone said like a pizza. The size makes it awkward to pack but easy to read when used with a dim red light. It is well made, and being plastic, will withstand the dew. It should last for years and is a worthy purchase, even for experienced observers.
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I joined my local chapter of the Astronomical League [...]/ last year the Howard Astronomical League [...]/ and started working on my Constellation Hunter Club. My wife got me Terence Dickonson's Nightwatch Nightwatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe [NIGHTWATCH 4/E] for Christmas. The new edition is awesome, much better than the 1997 edition, but the charts didn't cover the whole sky.
David Levy's Guide to the Stars planisphere is a perfect addition. It is BIG with big ... Read More
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It`s amazing to think that from your back yard or balcony you may be able to see Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus and Mercury - millions and millions of miles away - with your unaided eyes - if you know where to look.
From your campsite or cottage you may be able to see the Andromeda Galaxy - so far away that the light from it`s billions of suns takes two million years to reach us. It`s shocking when you realize that when you look so deep into space you look millions of years back in time ... Read More
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I'm sure my family and I will enjoy this for years to come. The items (I bought three) came in four huge boxes. One box was empty and Amazon wants that box back. Bob S.
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This is an awesome product! I got one for myself and one for my son in law. They love it. It is so fascinating, educational and interesting. I recommend them for schools and anyone you can think of...
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