The book presents a practical guide to using a small astronomical telescope of a size that corresponds to most “first” telescopes – around 75 to 150 mm, i.e. 3 to 6 inches, in diameter.

The book is intended for people who are sufficiently interested in astronomy to have purchased a small telescope or received one as a gift, but who are still developing experience of using one. They may have looked at the Moon and major planets and be wondering, “What next?” There are many books catering for casual star gazing and many more advanced books dealing with astrophotography and astrophysics, but this is for someone who has acquired their first telescope or soon will and wants to make the most of it.

It explains how the optics of the telescope function, so the reader understands what their telescope can do and how eyepieces should be selected and used depending on the type of object being observed. It details different types of astronomical objects, their astrophysical significance, and how to observe them. It contains 43 detailed, clear charts and describes 380 objects suitable for visual observing with a small telescope, and explains how to locate them without needing a computer-controlled telescope. It will help readers make the most of their telescope to successfully observe the Universe and kick-start a life-long interest in stargazing.

Key Features:
• Presents essential information on optics, astronomy and astrophysics for anyone with a small telescope.
• Contains 43 detailed charts, based on the constellations and showing stars down to magnitude 8.5, and identifies 380 objects suitable for visual observing with a small telescope.
• Written by a Professor of Astrophysics with over 40 years of experience as both an amateur astronomer and as a professional observational astronomer using telescopes at both small and major observatories around the world.

Sean Ryan is a professional astronomer with almost fifty years’ experience as an amateur observer. He was appointed Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Hertfordshire in 2006, where he was Head and Dean of the School of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics for ten years. He has published over 100 research papers on observational astronomy, and has co-authored several textbooks.