Planetary nebulae : a practical guide and handbook for amateur astronomers /

Following a historical introduction and survey of important related astrophysical concepts, Hynes moves to the core of the volume, a useful section on observing techniques for amateurs followed by a catalog of 1,340 entries plus finding charts for 253 objects. Other catalogs of this completeness level are not generally available, but see A. Acker et al. in Astronomy and Astrophysics. Supplement Series, v. 43, p. 265 (1981); v. 54, p. 315 (1983); and the out-of-print L. Perek and L. Kohoutek, Catalogue of Galactic Planetary Nebulae (Prague, 1967). Although the reader needs some general background on astronomy, the text is easy to follow. Suggestions for observing are concisely presented and offer many helpful hints. The bibliography and separate indexes for subjects, objects, names, and charts are excellent. The quality of reproduction is very good, with the unique finding charts produced at a useful scale for small telescopes. The book would make an excellent addition to any astronomy library, particularly one used by undergraduate students or serious amateur astronomers. Professional astronomers will appreciate the convenience of the catalog at such a reasonable price.-M. -K. Hemenway, University of Texas at Austin