Philip's Guide to the Night Sky

Tour the heavens--as they would appear in every season of the year!

The starry skies open up to you with the aid of one of the world's top astronomy writers; detailed drawn plans of the solar system in winter, spring, summer, and fall; and awe-inspiring photographs.

Recognize and name each of the major stars and constellations (Ursa Major, Cassiopeia, Cygnus, and more), from both the northern and southern aspect.

Charts provide both the Latin and English names of the constellations, the brightest star in each, and when it is best viewed.

The pictures include our very own moon, in half shadow; a time-exposure of Orion, in which the stars show up as trails of light; a radiant meteor shower; a globular cluster; and the Pleiades, or Seven Sisters, the most famous star cluster in the sky.

Plus: advice on buying binoculars and telescopes!