Suggested reading?

[Manok101]

I'm a big reader, and was just wondering if what books I could pick up?

[Thunder]

Do you mean astronomy genrally or do you have a specific area you want to read about?

[LukeSkywatcher]

I assume you mean astronomy related etc?

The most recent book on all things astro related that i have read was Bill Bryson's: "A Short History Of Nearly Everything".

While not the most scientific book ever written (it doesnt claim to be), it really does deal with physics/astro physics in a way that is both fun and educational.

You will find yourself laughing heartedly at parts of it and thinking to yourself "WOW.....i didnt know that" at other parts.

It really is a good resource for understanding the universe around us in layman terms.

P.S.~~~Do you know what fog is?

According to Bill:"fog is is simply a cloud that has lost the will to float".

[bish]

Bang by Patrick Moore etc is a good place to start. Big Bang by Simon Singh is another good one.

[steveangel]

If you want to learn the technical side ( and have a basic understanding of physics) then i'd suggest Fundamental Astronomy by Karttunen. It has everything you'll ever need to know. Although it is quite a challenging read so be warned.

Hope this helps, Steve

[Manok101]

I am interested in general astronomy, not physics so much, but I do understand that a good grasp of physics can only help with understanding astronomy.

[steveangel]

Fair enough, what level are you at? beginner or amatuer ( i assume not an expert, sorry if im wrong)

The Backyard Astronomers Guide by Dickinson & Dyer is a good book. Its one of those books that offers advice, tips and instruction for everyone.

It covers everything from choosing telescopes or binoculars to maintaining and accessorising, to a few detailed star charts.

[Manok101]

I have a basic understanding of astronomy, I can spot two or three constellations, but beyond the space news that I read once in awhile, my knowledge is fairly limited.

[bcfcciderhead]

if like me your a bit new to this a great book i bought was "turn left at orion", simple to understand and a great read/learning aid

[darkly]

Maybe get a subscription to 'Sky at Night' magazine

[Worzsel]

Nightwatch is my most used beginners astronomy book.

Turn left at Orion is good too.

Bang is on my Christmas list, that's supposed to be great

[iamjulian]

The hunt for planet X by Govert Schilling is a good read if you are interested in Kuiper Belt objects like Pluto.

[brantuk]

Astronomy Now magazine is a good one to have - Bit more technical than SaN

[MrJulius]

I really enjoyed Seeing in the Dark: How Backyard Stargazers Are Guarding Earth from Interplanetary Peril by Timothy Ferris

I listened to it as an audio book from Audible.com it was narrated by the author. It is a good mix of personal recollections and history and anecdotes about other astronomers. A really relaxing read (listen).

[smulx]

The ones on my list to get are The Backyard Astronomer's Guide and Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders. Are these okay or are there better ones out there for a beginner?

[smulx]

Also, Making Every Photon Count when I can afford to start imaging.