Astronomical Spectroscopy for Amateurs

Astronomical Spectroscopy for Amateurs is a complete guide for amateur astronomers who are looking for a new challenge. After a brief overview of the development of spectroscopes and an introduction to the theory of stellar spectra, the book goes on to examine the various types of spectroscopes available to amateurs. Next, practical sections address all aspects of setting-up and using various types of commercially-available and home-built spectroscopes. A final part gives detailed instructions for the design and construction of three different spectroscopes, along with the necessary design theory (minimal math). The home-made spectroscopes have performance capabilities near or equal to commercial units but are constructed using basic hand tools for a fraction of the cost! This up-to-date practical spectroscopy book will enable amateur astronomers to develop the skills and equipment needed to prepare scientifically acceptable spectra data, and to make a valuable contribution to ProAm projects.

Customer Reviews:

Well worth having waited for!

By T. Field "Tom Field" - February 27, 2011

This book is a welcome addition to the discipline's literature. It fills a real need for both theoretical and practical "how-to" information for amateur astronomers.

The writing, organization, editing, layout, color graphics and images are all excellent and reflect the high production values of Patrick Moore's Practical Astronomy Series (Springer) publications.

The book is divided into three sections:

Part One: Introduction to Spectroscopy - Covers the history and theory of the field, including a good discussion of the different types of spectroscopes. Even if you have read this kind of background on the field many times before, you'll find that Ken's presentation and his inclusion of new details makes it fresh and interesting reading.

Part Two: Obtaining and Analyzing Spectra - Discusses how to setup and images with converging beam as well as reflection grating spectroscopes. It also discusses different cameras including DSLRs. There's a... read more

Very good information for the amateur

By Carlos A Carvajal - April 1, 2013

In this book you can find a very complete information around spectroscopy for the amateur astonomer. Read it is a strong recomendation

Great Overiew for a Designer or User

By Colin Kaminski - October 22, 2012

I bought this book because Ken has helped me so much on-line. I found the book to be very well written and covers what you need to know to design, build and operate a Spectroscope. In includes a large section on calibration and photography.