Photographic atlas of the moon A comprehensive guide for the amateur astronomer

The moon is one of the more recognizable celestial bodies, and this book aims to encourage amateur astronomers to discover and learn about it when gazing at the night sky. The first 50 pages provide an astrophysics-based introduction to the moon: how it was formed, its major features (seas and craters), its orbit and the effect on tides and lunar eclipses, and the jargon used for the moon and its orbit. The second part of the book is the atlas itself. Starting from east and moving west, it outlines each of the moon's major features. The subsections are arranged primarily by seas (or mares). A two-page spread introduces each section, with sidebars providing physical data on major features in a region. Subsequent spreads provide stunning pictures of each major feature highlighted in that region's introduction. It seems like the crisp, high-resolution pictures were taken by a terrestrial telescope and digitally enhanced. The book's format makes it easy to lay it flat, and the pages are moisture resistant, making it ideal for a stargazer's outdoor use. In addition to a general index, there is an atlas index. This beautiful book is recommended as a reference when viewing the moon through a telescope.

Astrophotographer and writer Reeves brings over 60 years of knowledge and obvious enthusiasm for all things lunar to this detailed compilation of the features of Earth's moon. Opening chapters include lunar origin theories, terminology, telescope and filter notes, and lunar motion and eclipse diagrams. Reeves's captivating and elegantly worded narratives about the Moon's geographic features ("the overlapping twin craters Isidorus and Capella look like two wide owl eyes") make up the heart of the book and are accompanied by stats sidebars like size and coordinates, tips for backyard viewing, and Reeves's detailed photos. VERDICT A must for budding lunar photographers and anyone curious about our celestial neighbor.