50 things to see in the sky

A beautifully presented, practical gift guide to 50 sights in the skies above us. Explained with fascinating, easy-to-understand commentary from astrophysicist and science communicator, Sarah Barker, and illustrated throughout with captivating drawings by Maria Nilsson, each guide helps you locate an incredible sight. The book is divided into three main sections – and whether you use the naked eye, a telescope, or fall into a black hole of online research, you’ll discover the limitless wonder of the skies – from otherworldly phenomena on Earth like sun dogs, to planets, moons, stars, lunar craters and galaxy clusters. Naked Eye: Learn how navigators travelled in the past by finding the North Star; say hello to our astronauts and learn how to spot the International Space Station; see a red supergiant star (Betelgeuse); and find out more about solar eclipses. Further Afield: Find out more about the next closest galaxy, Andromeda; learn about the discovery of Saturn’s ‘ears’ (or rings!); spot an alien storm that’s as big as the Earth; and track ‘Little Green Men’ and ice volcanoes. Far, Far Away: Learn how baby stars are created by the Pillars of Creation; marvel at the Hubble Deep Field; and unearth the brightest things in our universe, quasars. The book also includes advice on ideal conditions for observing the stars, telescopes and binoculars, and navigating the skies.

With extra tips and a rundown of useful tools, you’ll find everything you need to get out there and look up!