1 / 3Stargazing: Introductory Guide to Exploring the Night Sky
Stargazing is an introductory astronomy guide from Collins, aimed at beginners exploring the night sky. It covers observing with the naked eye, telescopes, seasonal star and constellation charts, light pollution and sky events, with guidance for both hemispheres.
At a glance
- Introduces planets, stars, telescopes, dark skies and celestial maps.
- Includes seasonal star charts and constellation charts, plus Solar System facts.
- Covers observing with the unaided eye and ways to tackle light pollution.
- Includes guidance on planning observations and noticing events throughout the year.
- The publisher says the guide covers both Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
- Detailed illustrations are credited to Wil Tirion.
Reference price: £9.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- A broad beginner-level scope combines practical observing guidance with basic astronomy topics.
- Charts and illustrations support readers learning to identify seasonal skies and constellations.
- Advice on observing without equipment can help newcomers start before choosing a telescope.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Collins |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 6 Oct. 2016 |
| Edition | Illustrated |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 224 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0008196273 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0008196271 |
| Dimensions | 1.27 x 14.73 x 20.83 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 350 g |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listed publication date is 6 Oct. 2016, so references to specific dates and seasonal sky events should be treated as guidance within an older edition rather than assumed to be current year-by-year updates. A free booklet is described for following chart explanations in the audiobook, but the listing does not establish that an audiobook is included.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Astronomy newcomers seeking an accessible introduction to observing and core sky concepts.
- Readers interested in star charts, constellations, light pollution and naked-eye stargazing.
- People wanting one guide that the publisher says addresses the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a current annual observing calendar or a guide focused solely on advanced telescope techniques.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
76% 76% - 4 stars
18% 18% - 3 stars
6% 6% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
0% 0%
Customer feedback describes the book as informative and easy to understand, with readers appreciating its beginner-friendly introduction and illustrations. That feedback aligns with the listed charts and broad introductory topics, making it most relevant to people starting out rather than readers seeking an advanced or annually updated observing reference. Aggregate ratings are largely five-star, though they do not establish particular strengths or limitations beyond the supplied feedback.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the material as informative and easy to understand.
- Customer feedback highlights its suitability as an introduction for beginners.
- Customers appreciate the illustrations and usefulness.
Frequently asked questions
Is this guide suitable for a first-time stargazer?
The listing presents it as an introductory guide and describes advice on naked-eye observing, light pollution, charts and astronomy basics.
Does the book include star and constellation charts?
Yes. The listing describes seasonal star charts and constellation charts, alongside Solar System facts and detailed illustrations.
Does it cover the Southern Hemisphere as well as the Northern Hemisphere?
The publisher says its guidance covers both hemispheres.
Is the downloadable booklet included with the book?
The listing mentions a free booklet for following chart explanations on the audiobook. It does not say that an audiobook is included.
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