By Terence Dickinson and Alan Dyer
The touchstone for contemporary stargazers.
For nearly three decades, this classic, groundbreaking manual has been the absolute go-to field guide for both beginning and experienced amateur astronomers. The massively revised fourth edition brings Terence Dickinson and Alan Dyer's invaluable expertise completely up-to-date, setting a new standard for the next generation of stargazers.
Technology and astronomical understanding evolve at a breathtaking clip. To keep pace, this 416-page edition has been completely rebuilt. It features all-new photographs, refreshed star charts, and five brand-new chapters—including essential essays on binocular, telescope, and Moon tours by renowned astronomy writer Ken Hewitt-White.
Whether you are setting up your first scope or looking to upgrade your rig, this guide covers the latest advances: naked-eye sky sights, LED lighting technology, WiFi-enabled mounts, and modern astrophotography (including cellphone imaging). It also features vital techniques for safely observing the Sun, the Moon, and eclipses, plus deep dives into dark sky reserves and astro-tourism.
Featuring a foreword by Dr. Sara Seager, an internationally recognized expert in the search for exoplanets, The Backyard Astronomer's Guide is an enduring, indispensable reference for anyone looking to master the night sky.
🔭 From the Desk of Paul Bracken:
"If there's one book that belongs out in the observatory next to your eyepieces and red flashlight, it's this one. When I first started navigating the night sky, Dickinson and Dyer's advice saved me countless hours of frustration and bad equipment choices. Even now, with a fully automated astrophotography rig, I still find myself flipping through these pages. It bridges the gap perfectly between just looking up at the stars and truly understanding what you're seeing. Highly recommended before you spend a dime on new gear!"
