Deep-Sky Companions: Hidden Treasures by Stephen James O'Meara

Stephen O'Meara's new and exciting observing guide spotlights an original selection of 109
deep-sky objects that will appeal to sky-watchers worldwide. His 'hidden treasures' include a
wonderful assortment of galaxies, open clusters, planetary nebulae and more, all of which
have been carefully chosen based on their popularity and ease of observing. None of these
objects are included in either the Messier or the Caldwell catalogs, and all are visible in a 4-
inch telescope under dark skies. Stunning photographs and beautiful drawings accompany
detailed visual descriptions of the objects, which include their rich histories and astrophysical
significance. The author's original finder charts are designed to help observers get to their
targets fast and efficiently.

• This guide is fully consistent with O'Meara's previous books in this series, Deep-Sky
Companions: The Messier Objects and Deep-Sky Companions: The Caldwell Objects. This
allows observers to compare the physical properties and visual descriptions of objects
covered by any of these books, with complete confidence. No other observing guides offer
such consistency.

• Contains a biography of Caroline Herschel, written by the pre-eminent female astronomer
Barbara Wilson of Houston, Texas

• Contains star charts designed by the author to help observers find their targets quickly and
effectively

Reviews
Praise for Deep-Sky Companions: ‘Steve O’Meara has done it again. [This book] is a
beautifully written, personal guide for observing 109 of the most beautiful objects in the night
sky, plus 20 more personally chosen deep-sky treasures. Coupled with O’Meara’s own
meticulous observations, the rich observational history and current scientific knowledge of
each object bring this book to life, and the depth of O’Meara’s writing makes it a real gem.’
David H. Levy

‘An indispensable guide for anyone who observes the night sky with a quality amateur
telescope from a reasonably dark place. Here are tips for viewing - and understanding! - more
than one hundred entrancing galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae available to the backyard
enthusiast. With its wealth of scientific and historical information, and its poetic sensibility,
the book gave me immense pleasure even before I left my easy chair.’ Chet Raymo

‘ … there is no better guide than Stephen O’Meara’s book. For each object there is a
photograph, a finder chart, basic data, a discussion of what is seen through small
telescopes, and some history of telescopic ideas. This is not a treatise on astrophysics, but
an observer’s guide, a worthy and superior successor to previous attempts.’ Stephen P.
Maran, Nature

‘Steve O’Meara says the purpose of the book is to provide new and experienced observers
with a fresh perspective on these objects. He has succeeded brilliantly.’ Astronomy & Space

‘... impressive ... contains careful descriptions of each object, finder maps, telescopic
drawings, and photographs. The text is spirited and informed, and the result is a must-have
on the bookshelf of deep-sky enthusiasts.’ Astronomy Magazine

‘... packed with useful advice, historical facts, and interesting anecdotes.’ Robert Argyle, The
Observatory

‘… this is an excellent book and it deserves a place on the bookshelf of both the novice and
experienced amateur astronomer.’ The Journal of the British Astronomical Association

‘All in all, the book lives up to the author’s claim about offering a new perspective and is
thoroughly up to date and very readable book on the subject. I feel that it offers all deep sky
observers something. Highly recommended.’ Faith Jordan, Webb Society Quarterly Journal

Price - £25.00 + £4.90 p&p.

The Astronomy Shop

1 Tone Hill. Wellington

Somerset TA21 0AU

United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0)1823 665510