The Messier Objects

I've just ordered a copy of each of the O'Meara books mentioned, the Messier and the Hidden Treasures (got a nice book token for my birthday). I got the Caldwell objects book during the summer, it is quite brilliant, probably my favourite astronomy book (actually, Sue French's Celestial Sampler is my favourite, but that neither here nor there). There is no overlapping with the Messier objects, the Caldwell objects were originally selected by Sir Patrick Moore and listed in a letter to Sky and Telescope back in the late 70's (Caldwell is Moore's middle name). It is, if you like, an alternative or updated Messier list. O'Meara describes each in turn, with drawings, photo's and maps, taking about four pages for each. The drawings and photo's are shown as the observer would expect or hope to seem them with a four inch refractor or equivalent, there are few if any Hubble-type images. He observed each one himself from Hawaii with a four inch scope, and his decriptions are superb. Included in the list are some obscure objects, but also some very well-known, eg Cats-Eye nebula and the Double Cluster. I bought EPK a copy at the same time as a thank you, and he and I have been planning a Caldwell Marathon ever since, we've just haven't had the time or clear skies, but some night soon. It should be noted that only about 65 or so of the Caldwell's are visible in the northern hemisphere, unlike the Messier's, which are all visible. Also, the objects follow a logical pattern, staring with the highest declination, and working downwards. I'm just hoping the other two books are even half as good.

I agree completely with Stevie.
The Caldwell Objects book is one of the finest astronomy books I've ever read.
A wealth of information, and in an extremely readable format, unusual for a reference book...one you can read for fun!

well, i finally got "turn left at Orion" - its not a hardcopy but a PDF. (free)

Where did you get it?

I SPENT €32 on the damn thing.......................

I could have just printed it off.

I know of a website that has 960+ books related to astronomy in digital form and available for free download. However, I am almost certain it is illegal and it is best not to make matters worse by posting here any links. :oops:

If you would like an idea of the view you will get, but don't want to order a book, there are sketches of each messier object here www.perezmedia.net/beltofvenus/archives/000416.html

Nice One!!

Just got added to my Favourites Euronymous!

I don't have his Caldwell book either, because I assume it overlaps in targets with Messier. Can anyone confirm/deny that?

Jeff,
I have his Caldwell book (signed by the man himself in Birr) and I can confirm that there is no duplication of any Messier objects. It does include objects from both northern and southern hemispheres, hence no Caldwell marathons!

Thanks Michael. I might have to pick up a copy.

Cheers,
-- Jeff.