Annals of the Deep Sky – Vol. 8

Annals of the Deep Sky Vol 8: A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects by Jeff Kanipe.

The Annals of the Deep Sky: A Survey of Galactic and Extragalactic Objects is a comprehensive reference that guides astronomy enthusiasts into every mind-boggling corner of the observational universe. Each volume presents extensive descriptions of prominent stars and deep-sky objects in both the Northern and Southern hemisphere skies, including rarely observed objects and other celestial exotica. Incorporating the most recent findings in astrophysics and cosmology, deep historical context, and captivating illustrations and images, Annals provides readers with in-depth profiles of celestial objects beyond the solar system. The mission of every Annals volume is to guide observers on their own astronomical journey of exploration, whether it be at the eyepiece or from the comfort of a favorite chair on a rainy night. No other popular work in astronomy provides the comprehensive historical background and astrophysical appraisal of prominent celestial objects. We cannot visit these celestial marvels in our own hyperdrive spacecraft (yet), but Annals of the Deep Sky is the next best thing. Turn to page 1 and let it fly you across the universe.

Annals sorts the night sky into Galactic objects (those within the Milky Way) and extragalactic objects beyond our galaxy. Each chapter begins with an overall description of the pertinent constellation, its mythology if any, visibility, and overall appearance. From here, we move on to the building blocks of the Milky Way: stars in all their many forms, bright and dark nebulae, molecular clouds, star-forming regions, planetary nebulae, star clusters of every kind, and even the occasional telescopic asterism. Then, through the Milky Way framed by each constellation, we peer out into extragalactic space.

Volume 8 explores three of the most fascinating constellations in the night sky.

Cygnus is extremely rich, particularly in nebulae. Featured objects include popular favorites such as Chi Cygni, which has one of the largest visual amplitudes among Mira-class stars; P Cygni, a supernova in the making; the North America and Pelican nebulae; NGC 6888, the Crescent Nebula; and the radio galaxy Cygnus A.

Delphinus include the nova, HR Delphini; the bright globular clusters NGC 6394 and NGC 7006; and the galaxy groups of NGC 6928 and NGC 6956.

Dorado leads us into the wonders of the southern sky beginning with the close binary Alpha Doradus; R Doradus, known for having the largest apparent diameter of any star in the sky except the Sun; and the beautiful face-on spiral galaxy, NGC 1566.