1 / 5National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Night Sky, 2nd Edition
National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Night Sky, 2nd Edition is an illustrated guide to identifying constellations and learning about celestial objects and events. It offers seasonal constellation maps and observing advice for the naked eye, binoculars, and a small telescope.
At a glance
- Includes 66 maps of constellations arranged by season, with background on their myths and notable stars.
- Covers finding constellations through star-hopping, beginning with easier patterns.
- Describes observing with the naked eye, binoculars, or a small telescope.
- Photographs and graphics introduce topics including black holes, solar flares, and supernovas.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Seasonal maps and a stepwise star-hopping approach make the book useful as a practical observing reference.
- The coverage combines visible night-sky objects with explanatory material about broader astronomical phenomena.
- Its advice addresses both unaided observing and use with binoculars or a small telescope.
Cons
- Customer feedback reports that the text's gray tone can make it difficult to read.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | National Geographic |
|---|---|
| Edition | 2nd |
| Publication date | March 19, 2019 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 288 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1426220159 |
| Weight listed | 1.06 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.39 x 0.67 x 7.99 inches |
What to know before buying
Listing details to confirm
The listing describes coverage of the top 58 Northern Hemisphere constellations, while also stating that the guide contains 66 constellation maps. These refer to different stated counts, so check the listing if the exact map coverage is important.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Beginning stargazers who want help locating constellations from home.
- Readers interested in seasonal sky maps as well as explanations of planets, stars, and astronomical events.
- People who observe with the naked eye, binoculars, or a small telescope.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a book with consistently high-contrast text, given reports that the gray text can be hard to read.
- Buyers looking specifically for an observing manual focused on advanced telescope techniques. The listed guidance is aimed at naked-eye, binocular, and small-telescope use.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
83% 83% - 4 stars
12% 12% - 3 stars
4% 4% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as fascinating and informative, with appreciation for its solar-system content, constellation references, artwork, and photos. Readers also report a readability concern: the gray text can be difficult to read. These impressions matter for a guide intended to be consulted while learning the sky, particularly if clear, easy-to-scan text is a priority. Aggregate ratings are broadly favorable, but do not explain why individual customers rated the book as they did.
Positive themes
- Customer feedback praises the informative content and constellation background.
- Readers appreciate the artwork and photographs.
Negative themes
- Some customer feedback says the gray-toned text is difficult to read.
Frequently asked questions
Does this guide include constellation maps?
Yes. The listing describes 66 maps organized by season and background information about constellations, their myths, and noteworthy stars.
Can it be used without a telescope?
The listing includes hands-on observing techniques for the naked eye as well as binoculars and a small telescope.
Is the guide limited to finding constellations?
No. The listing also describes material on planets, astronomical events, and phenomena such as black holes, solar flares, and supernovas.
What is the book's stated constellation coverage?
The listing refers to the top 58 Northern Hemisphere constellations and separately says the book contains 66 maps. The exact relationship between those figures is not clarified.
Alternative options
100 Bike Rides of a Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Cycling Experiences (100 of a Lifetime)
$17.26
National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States, 3rd Edition: 400+ Parks, Monuments, Battlefields, Historic Sites, Scenic Trails, Recreation Areas, and Seashores
$22.00
The Backyard Astronomer's Guide
$28.00
Affordable Astrophotography For Beginners Simplified: Unlocking the Night Sky: A Practical Guide to Capturing Stars Without Breaking the Bank
$22.99
100 Train Journeys of a Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Rides (100 of a Lifetime)
$26.05
National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks
$21.05
Small Towns U.S.A.: 100 Must-See Getaways Across the United States
$29.01
Space - Constellations: Knowledge Encyclopedia For Children
$9.99
110 Night Sky Treasures to see with a Telescope: A Fun Stargazing Book for Kids and Astronomy Beginners: A Fun Space Guide Book for Kids to Explore Planets, Constellations, and Distant Galaxies!
$14.99
50 Things To See With A Telescope - Kids: A Constellation Focused Approach
$12.44
Star Finder!: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Night Sky
$17.99
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.
$96.99
