List of tables and figures; Plates; Preface; Introduction; 1. Astronomical background to the Messier objects: the 'missing' and 'additional' objects; 2. The Messier objects classified; 3. Observing: equipment, conditions and method; 4. The Messier objects in detail (Nos. 1-104;) Biographical and historical; Maps and appendices; Index of names; Index of subjects; Index of objects.
This is a unique handbook, unlikely ever to be equalled in its completeness and importance to the telescope owner.
"...a treasure trove of detail about the Messier Objects....I
highly recommend Kenneth Glyn Jones' Messier's Nebulae and Star
Clusters. It is a modern 'bible' for all those who wish to take an
informed and leisurely tour of Messier's starry harvest!" José
Olivarez, The Strolling Astronomer
"...of all the books devoted to the Messier objects, this is by far
the most extensive....what sets this book apart from the others
devoted to the Messier catalog is the amount of historical
information. Messier's Nebulae and Star Clusters is chock-full of
background information that make this book indispensable as a
reference....While I recommend the book, new observers may be put
off by the size and amount of information included witthin. But
they shouldn't be. Everything is written in an easy-to-understand,
non-technical style. Furthermore, the book will be of interest to
more advanced observers since it contains historical information
not found in a single source." Mark J. Coco, Deep Sky
"Whether the observatory or the armchair is your preferred locale
for astronomical contemplation, this book gets three stars ('worth
the trip')." Owen Gingerich, Sky and Telescope
"...very well written and is up to the usual high standards of
Cambridge University Press." Robert A. Seal, American Reference
Books Annual
"Although the book is primarily addressed to amateur astronomers,
professional astronomers will find the work useful for the
historical introductions to the individual objects." R. H. Van
Gent, Space Science Reviews
"...a very thorough and fascinating treatment of both the man and
his catalog....Any observer who has marveled at the wonders
contained within the Messier list will be fascinated to read the
story behind it and the man behind the "M"!" Gordon Bond, The
Practical Observer
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