Michael A. Covington

I nearly missed the real gem in this book, which is found in the last seventy or so pages. Covington begins the book with a very broad overview covering practically every type of object there is to observe. Unfortunately, the sheer number of topics apparently limited the depth to which each one could be covered. The beginner or intermediate amateur astronomer will still find a treasure trove of tips and information buried within this first section. In addition to the standard observing show more techniques, the books covers modern resources available to today's astronomer, such as personal computers, the internet, and computerized telescopes. Covington includes practical advice on site selection and weather; detailed instructions for observing the Sun, Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects; and newer specialties such as satellite observing and the use of astronomical databases.

As I said before, the real gem is in the last section of the book where Covington lists two hundred objects that are readily visible in a 20cm scope from suburban skies. The list includes deep-sky objects, double and variable stars, and asterisms that are both familiar and obscure. For each object, Covington includes a brief description of what makes the object unique.

I highly recommend this book as an addition to any astronomy library collection. show less

A fine textbook, with good example programs and interesting topics.

Covers standard parsing algorithms, top down, bottom up and chart parsing. Some elementary treatment of semantics.