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Reflector Book Review:
Observing for the Fun
of It
Category: Observing
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Observing for the Fun of It.
Melanie Melton
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
P.O. Box 1612
Waukesha, WI 53187
ISBN 0-913135-26-7
104 pgs. softback, $14.95.
Many people share a fascination with
the stars, planets, and Moon we see in the night sky.
Yet, in what passes for an environmentally conscious
age, most of use rarely see or notice the night sky.
It is not just the Moon that mystifies us. Our city
lights have erased most of the stars from the sky.
As amateur astronomers, we appreciate
an opportunity to share our love of the night sky with
family and friends. A recent book has appeared that
is designed to help novice observers gain a better understanding
of what there is to see. Fortunately, as this
book point out, you do not have to devote enormous amounts
of time to enjoy the night sky. And with a little bit
of study, enjoyment and understanding can be enhanced.
In the Introduction to her book, Observing
for the Fun of It, Melanie Melton tells us that
all that is really required are a few observing tricks,
a couple of comfort items, and an occasional hour or
two away from the television at night. In no time at
all, we can enjoy watching meteors burning up as they
enter Earth's atmosphere or show our friends how to
find a couple of our favorite constellations. Observational
astronomy can be as lighthearted or as serious as we
wish.
Seemingly aimed at the younger reader,
Observing for the Fun of It is divided into two
section, "Observing the Sky with Only Your Eyes," and
"Observing the Sky with a Little Help". In the first
section, the reader learns about constellations, the
Moon, the planets, meteor shower, eclipses, and comets.
The second section describes the uses and varieties
of binoculars and telescopes, and makes a comparison
of the merits of both instruments. The features to look
for when purchasing these pieces of equipment are explained,
but as specific brands are not mentioned, we are on
our own when it comes to making the final decision of
what to buy.
This book is softbound, but not lavish.
Instead, there are numerous line drawings to illustrate
the astronomical principles described in the text. Simple
exercises abound, but if you are looking for an astronomy
workbook, this is not the place to be. Melton's book
is more of a practical hands-on guide to learning about
the sky.
Observing for the Fun of It
can be recommended to those more casual or youthful
readers developing an interest in astronomy.
Ed Flaspoehler
former Reflector Editor
Reviewed in the May 1996 issue.
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