Star clusters are among the most spectacular objects for amateur astronomers to observe and image. They represent the beginning, the present and the future of the universe, from sparse open clusters containing only a dozen stars, to giant globular clusters, each replete with a million suns.

Part one of this detailed book provides a comprehensive review of star clusters - including open, globular, extragalactic, and even cluster remnants - along with their evolution and physics.

Part two is about observing. The larger clusters can be observed through the most basic equipment - normal binoculars or budget telescopes - but Mark Allison talks about instrumentation and accessories, for observers from beginner to expert. Finally there is an observing guide and a comprehensive observing list for a wide range of telescope apertures.

This one book provides all you need to observe star clusters, and to understand the many and varied objects that fall under this classification.

Résumé

Astronomy enthusiasts will all appreciate the detailed yet easily-assimilated description of star clusters, how they were formed as our Milky Way galaxy, how they evolved, and how they are classified. The latest research has revealed a vast amount of fascinating information about the clusters, along with some spectacular photographs.

Modern commercially-made telescopes enable amateur astronomers to see a surprising amount of detail, and to record using CCD cameras, video, webcams or even film some remarkably beautiful and detailed images. Contained here also is detailed information on using refractors, reflectors, and, of course, Meade and Celestron's ubiquitous range of computer-controlled SCT telescopes.

Contenu

Star Cluster Science.- Stars: The Ingredients of Star Clusters.- The Milky Way: Home to Star Clusters.- Open Clusters.- Globular Clusters.- Stellar Associations.- Asterisms.- Extragalactic Clusters.- Cluster Remnants.- Misfits and "Nonexistent" Clusters.- Observing Star Clusters.- Instruments.- Equipment and Accessories.- Observation Planning and Resources.- Observing Guide and Techniques.- Imaging and Recording Objects.- Comprehensive Observing List.- Catalogues and Cluster Data.- Postscript.