( 4 reviews )
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( 3 of 4 found this review helpful ) Posted: Jan 30 2006
If you are new to astronomy or new owner of a Meade ETX, this book assumes no prior knowledge and gives very concise description of what you can and cannot do with the ETX, as well as instructions on maintenance and set up that go far beyond the owners manual. Full of links and with a detailed bibliography that will take you as far as you want to go in the world of ETX or other small telescopes. Highly recommended.
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( 9 of 13 found this review helpful ) Posted: Dec 2 2003
I eagerly awaited this book, but then I deeply regretted that I've bought it. It's definitely not worth the paper. Well, the book contains everything I knew before, but all I want to know in addition (and there is still a lot!) is not adequately addressed. Very sparse technical information, no drawings, bad illustrations, no hints at all, nothing but ridiculously simple explanations. In summary, there is no need to buy this book, except for a very beginner.
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( 67 of 71 found this review helpful ) Posted: May 27 2002
I wanted to like this book, but unfortunately it's not worth the paper it's printed on. There is more and better information available free on Mike Weasner's terrific website (referenced on almost every page of the book). Nor does the book provide a valuable and handy reference - the long text articles about tuning the scope etc lack diagrams, illustrations, useful pictures... I almost laughed when the Seasonal Name Star Charts appeared several to a page and so small as to be utterly useless. Want to know how to carry your ETX outside? This book is for you. Want to know anything about accessories, programming the AutoStar, what the inside of the ETX looks like, CCD imaging, or similar topics? Forget it, it's not in there. Conclusion: If you want a good astronomy book, consider "The Backyard Astronomer's Guide" or "NightWatch". If you want ETX-specific information, visit Mike Weasner's website. And save your money until a useful ETX book is published - there is a need for one, but unfortunately this is not it.
