David H. Levy

Any one that really knows me knows that I love astronomy! When I was young I want to study “Astro-physics.” As I grew I changed my mind and wanted to study “Planetary Science.” But it was always Astronomy…and this book is a great example of why I wanted to study the sky. The objects are wondrous, the methods ingenious, the people brilliant and the locations exotic. I wonder how anyone can not be amazed at God’s creative powers. This book although not religious it does touch on show more the divine in the heavenly subject of Astronomy. David Levy is an accomplished astronomer and tells many short stories on his life and the career that many of us dreamed we had. He also includes stories of other people that share that dream; people that go out, in the dark, to look up and see the light. show less

An old book but a great and breezy read. David Levy has a natural grasp on how to tell a story with wit ,wisdom, and clarity; and not lose you in technical jargon.This book is not ONLY about comets but poetry, the birth of the solar system, life on earth, and everything else of importance to anyone interested in things other than shopping.

The perfect introduction for the novice astronomer, this book stirs the imagination and puts observation in a framework of social activity and personal adventure. Written by an award-winning amateur astronomer and columnist, it is a technical guide to the sky, full of helpful practical hints. The lively and fresh style of the author will engage, entertain, and inform the reader. Newcomers will learn how to enjoy the Moon, planets, comets, meteors, and distant galaxies observable through a show more small telescope. For instance, author Levy describes the features of the Moon from night to night; how to observe constellations in both Northern and Southern hemispheres; how best to view the stars, nebulae, and galaxies; how to follow the planets on their annual trek among the constellations; how to map the sky; how to find a new comet; how to buy or even make a telescope; what to see in a month of lunar observations or a year of stellar observation; and much more. Beginners who have just joined an astronomy club or amateurs who wish to learn more about what can be accomplished with a small telescope will not find a better first book. show less

With their bright tails and otherworldly beauty, comets have fascinated mankind for centuries. They have heralded doom, they may have helped create life on Earth, and they may have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. In The Quest for Comets, one of the discoverers of the comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 writes an exhilarating, eloquent history of comet hunting and hunters, comet collisions, and more.