Star Clusters and How to Observe Them is a mine of information for all levels of amateur observers, from beginners to experienced observers. It begins with a detailed yet easily assimilated description of star clusters, how they were formed as our Milky Way galaxy 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. There is detailed information on using refractors, reflectors, SCT's (like Meade and Celestron) and computer-controlled telescopes.
The book includes an Observing List cataloguing star clusters to be observed or imaged using a variety of different instruments, all of them available commercially to amateur astronomers.
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 ?Non-existent? Clusters.- Instruments.- Equipment and Accessories.- Observation Planning and Resources.- Observing Guide and Techniques.- Imaging and Recording Objects.- Comprehensive Observing List.- Catalogues and Cluster Data.